Abstract: A gaming machine and method of play providing a predetermined top game symbol that can replace adjacent symbols to expand possible winning outcomes and payouts for winning outcomes in connection with a “ways to win” game format. The machine and method defining an expanding property applicable to the top symbol, and where the top symbol and expanding property are displayed together in the same game position, the top symbol being propagated to replace other symbols presented on the same reel. A configuration of identical game symbols on displayable game positions of adjacent reels establishing winning outcomes and payouts.

Abstract: A gaming machine and method of play providing a predetermined top game symbol that can replace adjacent symbols to expand possible winning outcomes and payouts for winning outcomes in connection with a “ways to win” game format. The machine and method defining an expanding property applicable to the top symbol, and where the top symbol and expanding property are displayed together in the same game position, the top symbol being propagated to replace other symbols presented on the same reel. A configuration of identical game symbols on displayable game positions of adjacent reels establishing winning outcomes and payouts.

Abstract: A method and gaming machine for playing a game with area and numerical winning thresholds. The method and machine present a plurality of distinct elements which are grouped into a plurality of subsets whereby a player can select both a sub-plurality of elements and at least one subset. A set of random elements is selected from the set of elements which also determines at least one random subset. The set of random elements is compared to the sub-plurality of player selected elements and the player selected subset to the random subset. A player is rewarded if the set of random elements and the set of player selected elements have a pre-determined minimum number of common elements and/or if the plurality of player selected subsets and the plurality of random subsets have a second, pre-determined minimum number of common subsets.

Abstract: A gaming apparatus with geometrically oriented elements is disclosed. Specifically, an array of game elements are displayed, each of which has a discrete geometric orientation, and whose relative geometric orientations, in addition to relative placement of each gaming element, determines winning patterns which result in payout to a player.

Abstract: A method for playing a game wherein a positive outcome for a player requires both a superior ranking over other players or fixed outcomes, and an absolute minimum ranking, is disclosed. A machine incorporating the method described is also disclosed.

Abstract: A gaming apparatus with geometrically oriented elements is disclosed. Specifically, an array of game elements are displayed, each of which has a discrete geometric orientation, and whose relative geometric orientations, in addition to relative placement of each gaming element, determines winning patterns which result in payout to a player.

Abstract: A method and gaming machine for playing a game with area and numerical winning thresholds. The method and machine present a plurality of distinct elements which are grouped into a plurality of subsets whereby a player can select both a sub-plurality of elements and at least one subset. A set of random elements is selected from the set of elements which also determines at least one random subset. The set of random elements is compared to the sub-plurality of player selected elements and the player selected subset to the random subset. A player is rewarded if the set of random elements and the set of player selected elements have a pre-determined minimum number of common elements and/or if the plurality of player selected subsets and the plurality of random subsets have a second, pre-determined minimum number of common subsets.

Abstract: A gaming apparatus with geometrically oriented elements is disclosed. Specifically, an array of game elements are displayed, each of which has a discrete geometric orientation, and whose relative geometric orientations, in addition to relative placement of each gaming element, determines winning patterns which result in payout to a player.

Abstract: A method for playing a game wherein a positive outcome for a player requires both a superior ranking over other players or fixed outcomes, and an absolute minimum ranking, is disclosed. A machine incorporating the method described is also disclosed.

Abstract: A system and method of organizing and administering contests or other promotions for physically dispersed currency, card, or ticket video games enable an organizer to conduct such contests or promotions from a single location. Software executable locally enables the organizer to define a contest, transmit contest or promotional information to the various video games, and stage the contest or promotion at a plurality of such games during a predetermined time interval. Contest results can be retrieved by the organizer at the location. The organizer can determine contest or promotion winners and transmit those results to the various video games.