Abstract: In a gaming system, a central computer generates a plurality of game win-loss outcome stacks, each stack having at least one “win” (preferably, large-prize) outcome. Sub-stacks, from among the plurality of stacks, are transmitted to casino or other group controllers or computers, each casino controller being coupled to a plurality of gaming terminals. In response to placing a large-prize wager, in addition to normal, local game wager, a gaming terminal requests a large-prize outcome from the sub-stack which is stored in the casino controller. Whenever a casino controller's sub-stack is depleted, it requests a new sub-stack from the central computer. Preferably the central computer selects a new sub-stack for transmission according to a selection process which is weighted so as to maintain the ratio of winning outcomes to all outcomes in a predetermined range. When all sub-stacks of a given stack have been transmitted, the central computer generates a new stack to replace the depleted stack.

Abstract: A gaming system is provided in which a central computer broadcasts a plurality of random number seeds serially for simultaneous receipt of each seed by a plurality of gaming terminals. Each gaming terminal uses the seed to generate a random number which determines the win/loss outcome. Two terminals configured to play the same game which receive the same random number seed will generate the same random number.

Abstract: A game which involves a player positioning sequentially-provided symbols onto a plurality of pre-defined positions is provided. In one embodiment, a plurality of columns, each with a plurality of positions is displayed, symbols are randomly presented and displayed to the user who may then select into which column to place the symbol. The symbol is placed in the lowest vacant position of the selected column and the next randomly selected symbol is presented. In one embodiment, if the user does not select the column in a predetermined time period, the column is randomly selected for the user. After some or all positions are filled, the arrangement of symbols is evaluated to determine whether any collection or alignment of symbols corresponds to pre-defined winning collection or alignment.