US20040142740A1 - Gaming device and method with bonus phase and display - Google Patents

Abstract

A game device and method are set forth where a first bonus includes a plurality of selection sets. For at least one set, each selection represents an pay line multiplier. A repeat factor is selected to repeat the award a randomly selected number of times to increase the player's award. A second bonus is also provided which includes a jackpot amount and/or multiplier.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
• This application is a continuation-in-part application of commonly owned application Ser. No. 10/245,549 filed Sep. 16, 2002 and titled “Gaming Device and Method With Bonus Phase and Display”.[0001]
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
• The present invention relates to electronic gaming devices and methods using selected and displayed symbol combinations to determine winning and losing outcomes and where bonus features are provided and represented by various displays. More particularly it relates to such apparatus and methods which include at least one bonus feature including a player selection option and bonus display features.[0002]
BACKGROUND
• Electro-mechanical slot machines are well known. Mechanical reels include symbols on their reel strips and are driven by stepper motors to rotate and stop presenting symbol combinations on one or more pay lines. Depending upon the pay line(s) symbol combinations, the player has one or more winning combinations or losing combinations. For winning combinations, the player receives an award based upon an established pay schedule (referred to as the “pay table”).[0003]
• Modernly it has been known to provide a secondary bonus screen for electro-mechanical slot machines, embodied, for example, as a plasma screen disposed apart from the game display or as and electromechanical device or lit display. Based upon a triggering event, the bonus screen selects a bonus for the player.[0004]
• In addition to the electromechanical slot machines, video slot machines are well known and are quite popular with players. In a basic form, the player makes a wager to play the game and enables one or more pay lines on a video display. Upon prompting play, a processor selects and displays game symbols on the display in a matrix form. The symbols on enabled pay line(s) are compared to the established pay table of winning outcomes to determine if a winning or a losing outcome have been obtained. Where a winning outcome is obtained the player receives an award based upon an established pay table for the game. The player then makes another wager, enables one or more pay lines and plays another game (often referred to as a “hand” or “spin”).[0005]
• To make such video games more entertaining, it is known to provide certain configurations of bonuses. The bonus may be triggered by a certain combination of symbols on a pay line or scattered on the display (a “scatter prize”) during the play of the base game. It is also known to provide secondary screens or devices for issuing a bonus. That is, when the player obtains a certain, predetermined outcome during play of the base game, the game processor controls the display to remove the base game matrix display and display a secondary screen where the player can select from certain options to obtain their bonus. Alternatively a secondary bonus device or display is activated to determine a bonus for the player.[0006]
• Many of these games are “themed” and the symbols and bonuses are configured to be consistent with the theme of the game.[0007]
• Many of these games also offer a jackpot prize. However, to encourage players to wager a maximum amount in the game, to win the jackpot the player is required to wager a maximum amount. Thus players wagering less than the maximum amount have no opportunity to win the jackpot.[0008]
• A drawback of these devices is that, if a player selection is provided, only one bonus type may be provided. Further, for any bonus awarded, such awards are issued once and the player is then returned to the base game. That is, in the bonus phase, once a player selects the bonus and the bonus is awarded, that bonus feature is concluded without the player having the opportunity to receive and additional or repeat bonus award.[0009]
• Still further, such bonus selection often provide the player with one bonus selection (from an inventory of selections). It is submitted that providing multiple selections, each of which commands different awards and displays, would result in a more exciting and attractive bonus game format.[0010]
• Further, there is a need for game device and method which provides for different bonus events.[0011]
• Still further, there is a need for a game device and method which offers a jackpot to all players, regardless of the level of wagering[0012]
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
• There is, therefore, set forth according to the present invention an electronic device and method having a theme and for playing a casino game of the type including a video display, apparatus for accepting a wager and an apparatus for randomly selecting and presenting a base game outcome at the display representing combinations of game symbols. A processor is configured to compare selected game symbol combinations to determine winning or losing combinations and to issue an award for obtaining a winning, base game combination. The device further includes configuring the processor to detect an outcome including a first bonus trigger which may- be preselected symbols selected and displayed at the display in a scattered fashion of a predetermined number and/or arrangement of designated symbols on an enabled pay line for the device and/or designated symbols in adjacent positions, e.g. three symbols on adjacent reels. A first data structure such as a memory device is provided for storing data representing a plurality of images consistent with the selected theme of the game. The images may be, for example, images derived from video clips of a motion picture, cartoon or other desired images to impress the theme of the device on the player. In response to detection of a first bonus trigger outcome, the processor is configured to control the display to display first and second selection sets, each set including a plurality of player selections. For example, where the game has a boxing theme, the processor may control the display to display a set of right hand and a set of left hand boxing gloves. The processor is further configured to assign to each selection of the sets an associated bonus value. The assigned bonus value may be a multiplier to be applied to the game base wager or pay line wager or the assigned values may be simply prize award values such as a number of game credits. A player selection device is provided for the player to input a selection from each of said first and second selection sets. In this regard the selection device may be a touch screen, button, keyboard, mouse or the like. As but an example, the player may input a selection of a right hand boxing glove and a left hand boxing glove. The processor, in response to said player input of his selections, controls the display to display an action sequence associated with each selection and to display said associated bonus award and to award said bonus award to the player. As but an example, the processor may control the display to display a boxer hitting a punching bag with a right hand and in response thereto display the award for the right hand boxing glove selection set and then with the left hand to reveal the award for the other selection set for the selected left hand boxing glove.[0013]
• In a further embodiment, the processor randomly selects a number to repeat the award for at least one selection set. As but an example, if the processor selects to repeat the award for the right hand boxing glove N times, an action sequence is displayed where the boxer repeats the punch with the right hand to repeat and/or increase the award from the first selection set selection of the right hand boxing glove.[0014]
• In another embodiment, there may be provided a jackpot award which if randomly selected by the processor and selected by the player results in a jackpot award.[0015]
• In addition to a first bonus, additional and further bonuses may be provided based upon the player obtaining predetermined outcomes such as pay line symbol combinations and scattered symbol combinations.[0016]
• The method and device of the present invention is adapted to convey the theme of the game, such as, for example, a game having a theme based upon a well know motion picture and wherein said images are selected, and well known, scenes from the motion picture.[0017]
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
• These and other features and advantages will become appreciated as the same becomes understood with reference to the claims, description and drawings wherein:[0018]
• FIG. 1 shows an example of game display for the play of the device of the present invention showing a base game outcome;[0019]
• FIG. 2 shows a further example of a display of a base game outcome;[0020]
• FIG. 3 shows a first bonus display offering the player bonus selections and illustrating the display of selected images as background images;[0021]
• FIGS.[0022]4-7 show displays of various first bonus outcomes;
• FIGS.[0023]8-10 show other examples of a first bonus selection displays with selected images during a second chance sequence;
• FIGS.[0024]11-20 show various examples of selected images for display wit the first bonus display and according to the theme of the game;
• FIG. 21 shows a logic diagram for the play of the game is a further logic diagram for the bonus sequences for the game;[0025]
• FIG. 22 shows a display for initiation of the selection of a second bonus;[0026]
• FIGS. 23 and 24 illustrate the virtual reel stop or mapping arrangement for the game second bonus;[0027]
• FIGS[0028]25-32 illustrate the sequence for selecting a first bonus according to another embodiment of the present invention;
• FIG. 33 shows a logic diagram for issuance of bonus illustrated in FIGS.[0029]25-32; and
• FIGS.[0030]34-39 illustrate a second bonus feature according to another embodiment of the present invention.
DESCRIPTIONFIRST ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENT OF THE INVENTION
• Turning to FIG. 1 there is shown a[0031]device10 including a video, base game,display11 for the apparatus and method game of the present invention. Thedisplay11 may be embodied as a video, plasma or otherelectronic display11 for a casino gaming device or computer monitor, where the game of the present invention is played for entertainment or over the Internet.
• While the following description is directed to a casino gaming apparatus where monetary units or their equivalent, such as accumulated gaming credits, are wagered and won, it should be understood that the method can be practiced as a novelty game where fictitious gaming credits are wagered and won.[0032]
• The[0033]display11 is contained in a supporting housing (not shown) which includes the various components including a controlling computer processor12 (including a random number generator) and wager accepting means of a type known in the art such as a coin acceptor, cash acceptor, script acceptor or the like. Associated with theprocessor12 is a first data structure14 (FIG. 21) which may be embodied as a read-only memory (ROM) or other data storage device as is known in the art. In an alternative optional embodiment thedisplay11 may communicate with a remotely locatedprocessor12, such as at a remote server with thedevice10 acting as a “smart” terminal. Preferably, thedisplay11 is embodied as a touch screen display which also provides means for the player to control the play of the game and input selections as hereinafter described. Alternatively, the play control means may be any suitable data input means such as game control buttons, keyboard, mouse or the like. For purposes of the following description, these data input means will be referred to as atouch screen display11.
• To issue awards to the player, the[0034]device10 includes a pay out apparatus (not shown) which may be embodied as a hopper to receive coins/tokens and dispense the same into a tray, means for accumulating game play credits, apparatus for writing to a credit voucher, credit card device or the like as is known in the art.
• With continuing reference to FIG. 1, the[0035]processor12 controls thedisplay11 and play of the game of the method. For the player to control the action of the game method, thetouch screen display11 includes agame play area20 where symbols, displays and screens for play are displayed as well as areas to impart information to the player and for the player to input data to theprocessor12. Certain of these areas are allocated for display only and do not provide for touch screen input to theprocessor12. For example,credit area22aon thedisplay11 displays the total amount of accumulated credits for play of the game.Select lines area22bdisplays the number of enabled pay lines being played by the player and betarea22cdisplays the amount of credits wagered per enabled pay line whereastotal area22ddisplays the total amount of the wager. Winarea22edisplays the total amount won for the hand or “spin” of the game and paidarea22fshows the corresponding amount paid to the player in coins, tokens or credits, for a winning outcome and/or bonus as hereinafter described.
• In addition to the foregoing areas, certain portions of the[0036]display11 define input buttons for inputting information to theprocessor10 for controlling the action. Paytable button24a,if touched by the player, prompts theprocessor12 to display the various winning outcomes and the pay for each.Help button24bprompts theprocessor12 to display help information to the player such as game instructions. Cash outbutton24c,if touched, controls the processor to issue the amount of accumulated credits amassed during the play of the game. Other action and control buttons may be provided as is known in the art.
• The[0037]processor12 is configured to display in thegame play area20, abase game matrix26 of coordinates shown for purposes of this description as a three-by-five matrix. During play of the method symbols are selected and displayed in each coordinate of thematrix26. As shown in FIG. 2, thematrix26 may be displayed in a fashion of five simulated slot machine reels28a-ewhich correspond to the five columns (Y) of thematrix26. Each reel28a-eincludes three coordinates (X) defining theprimary game matrix26.
• When play of the game is prompted by the player touching a spin button or a maximum bet button (not shown), the[0038]processor12 randomly selects and displays data from thefirst data structure14 which stores data representing various symbols (or blanks) to be displayed to define one or more outcomes for the play of a game hand. The selection of game symbols is based, for a casino game, upon a random number generator (RNG). Symbol data is stored and/or selected based upon a predetermined distribution such that each symbol has a predetermined, statistical-probability of being selected as is known in the art. When the symbols are selected they are displayed in the coordinates of thematrix26. Theprocessor12 is configured to simulate rotation of the reels28a-ein advance of the display of the symbols.
• Cooperating with the[0039]matrix26, theprocessor12 is configured to display various pay lines for thematrix26 grid as is known in the art. As is known, thedevice10 and game may include nine (or more or less) pay lines embracing horizontal, diagonal reflecting and reflecting patterns each including five game symbols, e.g. five game coordinates, one from each reel28a-e.Markers29 (FIG. 2) at the right and left hand margins of thegame play area20 of thedisplay11 may be displayed to indicate the enabled pay line(s) and the amount wagered per each enabled pay line. As shown in the drawings, thedisplay11 for the base game includes ten pay lines.
• The[0040]first data structure14 includes data representing a plurality ofgame symbols16 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, consistent with a theme representative of the various “Rocky” motion pictures for the exemplary embodiment described herein. The random number generator andfirst data structure14 cooperate to provide for the random selection and assignment ofgame symbols16 into the coordinates of thegame matrix26 for the base game to define, along each player enabled pay line, a winning or losing outcome. Based upon the distribution of thegame symbols16 in thefirst data structure14, each predetermined winning combination on a pay line has a predetermined, statistical, probability of being selected as well as an assigned pay (award) for each to define the pay, or conversely “hold”, for the base game of thedevice10. If a player obtains a winning symbol combination on one or more enabled (wagered upon) pay lines, theprocessor12 issues a base game award to the player in the form of credits, coins, tokens or the like.
• In addition to line pays, the base game may also include what is known in the art as scatter pays. One or more game symbols may be designated as scatter pay symbols. In the event a spin of the game results in the selection of, for example, two or more scatter symbols anywhere in the game matrix, the player is issued an award.[0041]
• One or[0042]more game symbols16 or symbol combinations are defined as first bonus triggers for thedevice10 and method of the present invention. For example, data representing the display of one or more first bonus triggers shown as three or more “Boxing Glove” symbols along any enabled pay line may be defined as the first bonus trigger As described below, when theprocessor12 detects the selection and display of a first bonus trigger event, theprocessor12 controls thedisplay11 to display the first of a sequence of first bonus displays.
• The[0043]first data structure14 also includes symbols for triggering a second bonus, which may be, consistent with the “Rocky” theme, three or more “Rocky” symbols appearing anywhere in the display11 (scattered). In the event theprocessor12 detects the selection and display of two or more second bonus trigger symbols, the second bonus is triggered. With reference to FIG. 1, when the second bonus is sensed and triggered as hereinafter described, theprocessor12 controls thedisplay10 to display a second bonus selection screen display as shown in FIG. 22. Using selection apparatus such as thedisplay11 touch screen, buttons, mouse or keyboard, the player initiates the selection of the second bonus(es).
• To provide for visual excitement in connection with the selection of the second bonus, the[0044]device10 includes aheader display31 which may be mounted above and extend upwardly from thedisplay11 as shown in FIG. 1. Theheader display31 has a supportingframe33 to mount a circular arrangement of bonus awards as well as ajackpot display35. Whereseveral devices10 are networked together, each may allocate a portion of each wager received to a progressive jackpot. Thejackpot display35 displays the amount of the jackpot which can be awarded. As described below, when the second bonus is triggered and the player touches, for example, the “Touch to Spin” area of the second bonus display of FIG. 22, theprocessor12 randomly selects an outcome and controls theheader display31 to display the selected second bonus.
• As a feature of the second bonus, the[0045]processor12 andfirst data structure14 are configured as suggested in FIGS. 22 and 23. The left hand column designates an example of the multiplier values which are available for the second bonus event: Each multiplier would be displayed on theheader display31. Also shown in the chart is the jackpot amount shown as 200,00 units (a credit number and not a multiplier). The jackpot is progressive and therefore may vary; however, for purposes of arranging the data structure is shown as a fixed number. The columns to the right of the multiplier column represent the arrangement of the data structure for the second bonus event. It should be noted that the top row of the chart of FIGS. 22 and 23 representing the coins wagered are tied to the manner or protocol in which wagers are made such as by being tied to wagering buttons. Thus the chart of FIGS. 22 and 23 corresponds to thedevice10 where a total wager can be (in units): 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 40, 50, 60, 75, 80 and 100. These multipliers are applied to the total amount wagered by the player for the base game which resulted in the second bonus trigger. Again the second bonus trigger may be three “Rocky” symbols scatted in the display. For each wagered amount there is a data structure arranged to define virtual reel stops or addresses or a weighting for each multiplier value. Thus, for example, for the jackpot of 200,000. fo one unit (e.g. 5¢), out of 100,000 virtual reel stops or map addresses, there is one stop or chance of hitting the jackpot. For a wager of 15 units there are fifteen chances in 100,000 for hitting the jackpot. To maintain the 100,000 stop structure it is seen that the chances for obtaining certain multipliers is varied.
• Unlike devices of the prior art which require a maximum wager to be eligible to win the highest prize (jackpot), the present invention provides that even a single unit player has a chance of winning. The[0046]device10 and method also provides for greater chances for obtaining the jackpot for greater amounts wagered.
• Turning to FIGS.[0047]3-20 the features and advantages of the first bonus will now be described.
• If the[0048]processor12 senses a first bonus trigger at30, the first bonus is initiated. For purposes of the following description it shall be assumed that the first bonus trigger condition has occurred during a paid for base game play. As described above, the first bonus trigger may be a base game outcome which includes a predetermined arrangement of symbols on an enabled pay line, designated symbols scattered in the matrix or on adjacent reels. The trigger requirement can be any predetermined symbol combination, right-to-left or left-to-right. Further the first bonus trigger outcome may result in a credit award, i.e. be a base game winning outcome as well, whereas the bonus determined a multiplier to be applied to the base game trigger award. Alternatively the multiplier could be applied to the total wager for the base game which triggered the bonus.
• The[0049]processor12 senses the first bonus trigger condition and controls thedisplay11, according to this embodiment of the invention, to display the level one selection display as suggested in FIG. 3. As shown, the first bonus screen display displays several player selections shown as “Defend”40 and “Punch”42 . These selections are displayed, as controlled by theprocessor12, in certain portions of the display. To enhance the enjoyment of the game and convey the game theme, theprocessor12 selects, from an image data structure114 (FIG. 21) storing data representing images, and displays animage46 or images48 in the form ofbackground images46. In the example of the game described herein having the “Rocky” theme, the images are preferably scenes from the motion picture. Theimages46 may be removed and replaced with other selected images in a timed sequence, e.g. every few seconds, to convey the theme of the game with scenes from the motion picture. FIGS.11-20 illustrate an inventory ofscene images46 represented by data stored in the image data structure. As can be appreciated by those familiar with the “Rocky” motion picture, these scenes are well known and convey the theme of the motion picture and game. The image data structure may be any suitable memory device including a CD-Rom.
• Returning to FIG. 3, during the display of the first bonus display, the[0050]processor12 may control thedisplay11 to exchange the displayed images46 (illustrated as Rocky with his girlfriend Adrian) and/or periodically replace them with other selectedimages46 from the image data structure44. The movement, exchange and display of the images may be scripted (predetermined) or may be random. Further, theimages46 may be displayed as background images, “ghost” or watermark images or the like to display theimages46 while not interfering with first bonus selections offered.
• The player selects one of the first bonus selection options and in response thereto the[0051]processor12 randomly selects an outcome. For example, if the player selected “Punch”, theprocessor12 would randomly select an outcome which would be one of Rocky throwing a punch or a punch being thrown at Rocky as well as an award for each represented by a multiplier. If the player has correctly selected “Punch” and Rocky throws a punch the player wins a randomly selected multiplier award and moves on to another round whereupon the player is prompted to again correctly select whether Rocky will Punch or Defend. On the other hand, if the player picks Punch and instead the selected outcome is Rocky's opponent throwing a punch at Rocky (Rocky “Defends”) the player loses. Upon a first loss the player in any round is afforded a second chance to guess whether Rocky will Punch or Defend against a punch. FIGS.8-10 depict the display of a second chance screen where the player's first selection was incorrect. It should be noted that on the second chance displays,images46 are recalled and displayed by theprocessor12. If the player, with the second chance, correctly selects Punch or Defend, theprocessor12 issues a multiplier award and the player is prompted to play the next round. If, during any second chance during any round, the player incorrectly picks Punch or Defend, the first bonus is over and the player is issued an award based upon the credits awarded multiplied by the sum of the multipliers earned during the first bonus round(s). Table 1 below sets forth the basic feature of the first bonus for each round of play of the first bonus:

  	TABLE 1
  	Outcome	Result

  Player

  1stSelection
  Punch	Rocky Punches	Award of Multiplier
  	And Hits	and player goes to
  	Opponent	next Round
  	Rocky Punches	Loss-Player has 2nd
  	And Misses	chance
  Defend	Opponent Punches	Loss-Player has 2nd
  	And Hits Rocky	chance
  	Opponent Punches	Award of Multiplier
  	And Misses Rocky	and player goes to
  		next Round
  2ndChance Selections
  Punch	Rocky Punches	Award of Multiplier
  	And Hits	and player goes to
  	Opponent	next Round
  	Rocky Punches	Loss-Bonus over
  	And Misses
  Defend	Opponent Punches	Loss-Bonus over
  	And Hits Rocky
  	Opponent Punches	Award of Multiplier
  	And Misses	and player goes to
  		next Round

• The player may play a plurality of rounds (assuming he makes the correct selection on the first or second chance). For example the player may play up to three rounds winning multipliers which are summed and then the initial award of credits is multiplied by the sum of the awarded multipliers. As can be appreciated with reference to FIGS.[0052]3 (first selection display) and FIG. 8 (second chance display)images46 are displayed as background images to enhance the overall theme of the game.
• Where, during the first bonus, the player makes the correct selection, when the multiplier is awarded the[0053]processor12 may control thedisplay11 to display the outcome and award as suggested in FIG. 4. Other winning displays such as suggested in FIGS. 5 and 7 may also be recalled from a data structure by theprocessor12 and displayed at thedisplay12.
• Upon completion of the play of the first bonus, the[0054]processor12 returns thedisplay11 to the base game and the player must make another wager to play the next spin of play.
• Turning to FIG. 21, the play of the game will now be broadly described.[0055]
• At[0056]100 the player inputs a wager to play the base game and enables the desired pay lines, as is known in the art. The player then prompts play (or play is prompted by a maximum wager) and theprocessor12 at102 randomly selects data representinggame symbols16 from thefirst data structure14 and controls thedisplay11 to display the same as a base game outcome in thematrix26 as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. Theprocessor12 at104 compares the base game outcome to determine if either a first or second bonus trigger exists in the outcome. If there is no bonus trigger at106 theprocessor12 compares the base game outcome along each enabled pay line to determine if any winning outcomes have been obtained. If there are no base game winning combinations (scatter pays or pay line symbol combinations), the player is returned to enter another wager to play another spin. If there is a winning combination, at108 theprocessor12 determines the award and issues the same at108 to the player, most typically in the form of game credits.
• If the base game outcome includes a first bonus trigger, at[0057]110 the first bonus routine is enabled and at112 the first bonus initial display ( e.g. FIG. 3) is displayed by theprocessor12 at thedisplay11. Theprocessor12 also at112 selects, recalls and displays image(s)46 as background images for the initial display from theimage data structure114 storing data representing theimages46. At116 the player makes their initial selection (Punch or Defend) and theprocessor12 selects the outcome. If at118 the selection is the correct (winning) selection, at120 the multiplier award is issued to the player. At122 theprocessor12 tests the round to determine if the allotted rounds for the game have been exhausted. If all possible rounds, e.g. three rounds, have been played the first bonus is concluded, awards are issued and the payer is returned to the base game to input another base game wager at100. If all rounds have not been exhausted, theprocessor12 displays the next round, first selection display along withimages46 selected from theimage data structure114.
• If, on the other hand, the player has made an incorrect, initial outcome selection at[0058]116 at124 theprocessor12 controls the display to display the second chance display along withimages46 selected from theimage data structure114 as suggested by FIGS.8-10. The player makes the selection of punch or Defend and at126 theprocessor12 compares the outcome with the selection. If at126 the selection is incorrect the first bonus routine is concluded and the player is returned to the, base game to input another wager at100. If at126 the player has make the correct selection theprocessor12 at128 issues the award for the round. At130 the processor determines if the player has played the last available round and if so returns the player to base game to input another wager at100. If not the player is provided the display of the next round first display at112 to play the next round.
• The accumulated multiplier awards from the first bonus round(s) are awarded to the player at the conclusion of the first bonus which are then multiplied with the initial award of credits to the player.[0059]
• It should be noted that in lieu of multiplier awards, credits may be awarded depending upon the outcome of each round. Further, if the player loses the first round, a consolation prize may be awarded to the player.[0060]
• If the second bonus is triggered, at[0061]132 theprocessor12 randomly selects the multiplier prize in the manner described above. Theprocessor12 at134 tests to see if the address for the jackpot has been selected and, if so, the jackpot is awarded at136. If the jackpot has not been selected, the processor selects at138 a multiplier and at140 controls theheader display31 to display the award and at140 the award is issued. The player is then returned to the base game to, at100, input another wager.
• The second bonus may be as a multiplier to be applied to a base prize or to the amount wagered or as a number fo credits.[0062]
• Still further, the device and method may provide that where a second chance is required, after the second chance outcome is obtained the bonus is terminated regardless if the player wins or loses, i.e. the player cannot go to the second round and can only win a bonus based on the second chance award (if any) for that round.[0063]
• While the play of the base game described above and shown in the drawings relates to a “Rocky” motion picture theme, it should be understood that the base game could be any game which includes at least one bonus feature. For example, the bonus feature(s) as described below and according to the present invention could be incorporated into any game where bonuses are to be offered.[0064]
SECOND ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENT OF THE PRESENT INVENTION
• According to another embodiment of the present invention, the presentation and award of the first bonus feature is as suggested in FIGS.[0065]25-32. When theprocessor12 detects a first bonus trigger (e.g. designated symbols on an active pay line or in a scattered configuration, the first bonus feature is started at200 (FIG. 33). When the first bonus feature is triggered theprocessor12 is configured to control thedisplay11 to display the first bonus feature images as hereinafter described. For example, theprocessor12 controls thedisplay11 to first display a first bonus introductory image sequence as suggested in FIGS.25-27 to signify to the player the first bonus condition As shown in FIG. 27, theprocessor12 controls thedisplay11 to display first and second bonus selection sets illustrated as three right hand boxing gloves and three left hand boxing gloves. Thedisplay11 may be controlled to also display a prompt for the player to input a selection from each selection set, i.e. one right hand glove and one left hand glove.
• Upon the player making their selections the first bonus feature is played out at the display in the following manner. In FIG. 28, the[0066]processor12 controls the display to display a fighter punching a punching bag. The processor randomly assigns a number N to the right hand boxing glove selection whereby the fighter punches the bag N times with the right hand. In a preferred embodiment, theprocessor12 randomly selects a different N for each right hand boxing glove selection so that the player may receive a relatively higher award by selecting the glove with the higher assigned number N. Each right hand boxing glove represents a multiplier M1, which may be fixed for all right hand gloves at 5× the players line wager, e.g. the number of units wagered on the line which produced the first bonus trigger symbol combination. Thus the amount of the initial award to the player is N×M1.
• The[0067]processor12 also controls thedisplay11 to display the boxer hitting the punching bag once with the left hand. Theprocessor12 randomly selects and assigns a multiplier M2 to the left hand punch.
• The[0068]processor12 sums the award(s) from the selection sets of the right hand punch(es) and the left hand punch.
• The[0069]processor12 also randomly selects a repeat number R. If R>1, theprocessor12 controls thedisplay11 to randomly select a new N and multiplier M2 and to display the boxer hitting the punching bag accordingly to further increment the bonus. Theprocessor12 may be configured to control the display to display a video and audio segue between the repeats R. When the first bonus feature is completed, the sums awarded are credited to the player and thedisplay11 is controlled to return to the display of the base game.
• In a further embodiment, the[0070]processor12 may randomly select and assign to one of the selections of either selection set, a progressive bonus. The progressive bonus, is funded from the player of prior games and may be based upon incremental funding from linked machines. If the progressive award is selected and chosen (either by the player in the first instance or by the processor for the repeat awards), theprocessor12 controls thedisplay11 to display the award of the jackpot as illustrated in FIG. 31.
• At the conclusion of the award(s) from the first bonus sequence, the[0071]processor12 may control thedisplay11 to display a closing sequence of video images and audio as shown in FIG. 32.
• FIG. 33 is a logic diagram for the award of the first bonus feature. At[0072]200 the first bonus sequence is initiated as described above. At102 the player selects a selection from each of the first and second selection sets, i.e. picks a right glove and a left glove. At204 theprocessor12 controls thedisplay11 to display the boxer punching the punching bag with the right hand and at206 with the left hand. At208 theprocessor12 tests to determine the R value and if R=1, there is no repeat sequence for the first bonus feature. If R>2, then the loop returns to204.
• If there are no more repeat sequences to be displayed, at[0073]210 theprocessor12 tests the outcome for any progressive jackpot award. If the player has obtained the progressive jackpot award at212, that prize is awarded at212. If no progressive prize has been awarded, at214 theprocessor12 awards the total of the amounts awarded and at216 ends the first bonus feature.
• It should be understood that the awards from the selection sets could also be fixed amounts, randomly selected by the[0074]processor12 at levels corresponding to the player's base game line wager or total base game wager. That is, the greater amount the payer wagers, the higher the awards would be. Further the first bonus sequence could be adapted to provide for N numbers of punches for both selection sets as well.
• In addition to the first bonus, the device according to this embodiment may be provided with a second bonus feature as well. With reference to FIGS.[0075]34-39 the second bonus feature will now be described.
• The second bonus feature may be triggered by the player obtaining predetermined symbol combinations on an activated pay line or number S of predetermined symbols in a scattered condition in the[0076]base game matrix26. Where theprocessor12 detects a second bonus sequence trigger, it controls thedisplay11 to display an introductory actions sequence as suggested in FIGS.34-36 to convey to the player that the second bonus feature has been initiated and to further convey the theme of the game. As shown in the drawings, the introductory sequence may be a boxer initiating a workout on a speed punching bag. The introductory sequence concludes with a display at FIG. 37 prompting the player to touch the speed bag to initiate the bonus selection. Theprocessor12 randomly selects an outcome O for the second bonus in the form of a multiplier. The outcome O is selected from a predetermined set of outcomes, each multiplier Z represented on wheel for the jackpot display35 (FIG. 1). The selections may be weighted as desired. When the player initiates the second bonus by touching the speed bag, theprocessor12 controls thedisplay35 to flash either in a random or sequential manner the available bonus selections as suggested in FIG. 38 and to conclude the sequence by illuminating theprocessor12 selected multiplier Z award and to award the same as shown in FIG. 39. Video and audio tracks may be accompany the award. The award to be issued may be calculated based upon the total base game wager T and factor in the number of triggering symbols. For example, if S=3, the award is T×Z, where S=4, the award is 3×T×Z and if S=5, the award is 5×T×Z.
• While we have shown and described certain embodiments of the present invention, it should be understood that it is subject to many modifications and changes without departing from the spirit and scope of the appended claims. The game may have any theme, and bonuses can be in the form of fixed values, multipliers, or prizes.[0077]

Claims (15)

I (we) claim

1. An electronic device for playing a casino game of the type including a video display, apparatus for accepting a wager, apparatus for randomly selecting and presenting a base game outcome at the display representing combinations of game symbols, a processor configured to compare selected game symbol combinations to determine winning or losing combinations and to issue an award for obtaining a winning, base game combination, said device comprising;

said processor configured to detect an outcome including a first bonus trigger;

said processor further configured to, in response to detecting said first bonus trigger, controlling the display to display first and second selection sets, each set including a plurality of player selections;

said processor further configured to assign to each selection an associated bonus value;

a player selection device for the player to input a selection from each of said first and second selection sets, said processor in response to said player input controlling the display to display an action sequence associated with each selection and to display said associated bonus award and to award said bonus award to the player.

2. The device ofclaim 1 comprising each selection of said first selection set having associated therewith a wager multiplier M, said processor configured to select a number N to repeat the award provided by said first selection set.

3. The device ofclaim 2 comprising said processor configured to select and assign a number N to each selection of said first selection set and to issue an award A=N×M.

4. The device ofclaim 3 comprising said processor configured to, upon exhaustion of said repeat awards, display a terminating action sequence at said display.

5. The device ofclaim 4 comprising said processor configured to select said multipliers between predetermined limits.

6. The device ofclaim 1 comprising said processor configured to assign to each of said second set selections a prize and to control the display to display an action sequence associated with the award of the second set prize.

7. The device ofclaim 1 comprising said processor configured to assign to each of said second set selections a randomly selected multiplier, said second prize award corresponding to said wager and said selected.

8. The device ofclaim 7 comprising said processor configured to select said second set awards from a group consisting substantially of (i) a randomly selected multiplier within a predetermined range of multipliers and (ii) a jackpot award, said processor in the event of selection of said jackpot award controlling the display to display a jackpot award action sequence and to issue said jackpot award.

9. The device ofclaim 1 comprising said processor configured to assign to each of said second set selection a prize of game credits randomly selected between predetermined limits.

10. The device ofclaim 9 comprising said predetermined limits determined by said base game wager.

11. The device ofclaim 1 comprising configuring said processor to detect an outcome including a second bonus trigger, said processor configured to, in response to detecting said second bonus trigger, (ii) select a second bonus award and (ii) control a display to display said award and an accompanying video sequence.

12. An electronic device for playing a casino game of the type including a video display, apparatus for accepting a wager, apparatus for randomly selecting and presenting a base game outcome at the display representing combinations of game symbols, a processor configured to compare selected game symbol combinations to determine winning or losing combinations and to issue an award for obtaining a winning, base game combination, said device comprising;

said processor configured to detect an, outcome including a first bonus trigger;

said processor further configured to, in response to sensing said first bonus trigger controlling the display to display first and second selection sets, each set including a plurality of player selections;

said processor further configured to assign to each selection an associated bonus value and for said first selection set a repeat award factor of 1−N; and

a player selection device for the player to input a selection from each of said first and second selection sets, said processor in response to said player input controlling the display to display an action sequence associated with said selection from said first selection set representing said value and repeat award factor said selection from said second selection set and to display said associated bonus awards and to award said bonus award to the player.

13. The device ofclaim 12 comprising said bonus values defined by a wager multiplier.

14. The device ofclaim 12 comprising, for one of the first and second selection sets, said processor configured to randomly select said bonus value award from (i) a range of wager multipliers 1−Y and (ii) a jackpot bonus value award.

15. A method for playing a casino game of the type including a video display, apparatus for accepting a wager, apparatus for randomly selecting and presenting a base game outcome at the display representing combinations of game symbols, a processor configured to compare selected game symbol combinations to determine winning or losing combinations and to issue an award for obtaining a winning, base game combination, said method comprising;

detecting a game symbol outcome defining a first bonus trigger;

in response to detecting said first bonus trigger controlling the display to display first and second selection sets, each set including a plurality of player selections;

assigning to each selection an associated bonus value and for at least one selection set assigning to the player selection a repeat award factor;

the player selecting at selection from each of said first and second selection sets, said processor in response to said player input controlling the display to display an action sequence associated with each selection and displaying said associated bonus award, applying the selected repeat award factor to repeat the award associated with the selection and awarding said bonus award to the player.

Images