Abstract: A method of operating a game of chance comprising displaying a plurality of groups comprising positions a plurality of selectable objects, each being associated with a hidden value. A player selection of a group and/or a selectable object is received, a group-object association is created and a position from said group is assigned to said object. Upon occurrence of an ending condition, a prize is awarded. A game apparatus and a computer program applying the method are also provided.

Abstract: A virtual matrix comprised of a plurality of grid elements is provided, on which a hidden pattern, comprised of a plurality of matrix entries, is randomly placed. A player views a gaming matrix having a plurality of visible positions, each visible position corresponding to one of the grid elements. The player chooses at least one of the plurality of visible positions on the gaming matrix, after which the game displays the corresponding grid element of the virtual matrix on the gaming matrix. Based on the correct number of guesses matching the pattern location, the player is awarded and a media presentation signals the player's success. If the player guesses incorrectly, a second media presentation signals the incorrect guess.

Abstract: In one embodiment, the invention is a secondary game played concurrently with a conventional Keno game. In Keno, a player selects a plurality of numbers (e.g., 4-20) within an M×N grid (e.g., 8×10) of different numbers. A random number generator randomly selects a plurality of numbers (e.g., 20) in the grid. The player is then granted a first award based on matches between numbers that the player selected and the randomly selected numbers. As a secondary game played over the Keno game, for each number randomly selected, all numbers in the same row and column in the grid as the selected number are highlighted on the grid display. The player is granted a second award (e.g., free games) for each number not being in a highlighted row or column at the end of the Keno game. Variations of the secondary game are described.

Abstract: In the gaming machine according to the present invention, when symbols are displayed within display regions of a display means, a determination means determines, from a combination of symbols displayed, establishment/non-establishment of the shift condition. More specifically, the determination means determines that the shift condition is established when a predetermined number or more first symbols are displayed within the at least one display regions. Further, a condition control means for controlling, when the first symbols displayed within the at least one display regions are less than the predetermined number and when a second symbols are displayed within the display regions, to establish the shift condition by the first symbols and the second symbols. Accordingly, even when the first symbols displayed within the display regions are less than predetermined number, the player can look forward to the shift to the bonus game and therefore feel interest more than in a conventional gaming machine.

Abstract: There is provided a lottery game with a supplemental game. The player plays the lottery game by selecting a plurality of numbers and the player also has the option of playing the supplemental game. The lottery authority selects a set of winning numbers for the lottery game and also selects a set of supplemental numbers. If the player has opted to play the supplemental game, his numbers will not only be compared with the winning numbers but also with the supplemental numbers. The total number of matches between the player's numbers and winning numbers and supplemental numbers determines the player's prize.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for representing game arrangements by a single number, typically an integer, are described. These game arrangements can be applied to most any game including essentially all games played on gaming machines. Conversions can be made between symbolic representations of game arrangements and numeric representations of game arrangements. These conversions can be made using “ordering factors” such as game symbols and positions of such game symbols.

Abstract: In an embodiment of a gaming method, a gaming tournament time of a gaming tournament may be designated, the gaming tournament time having a start time and an end time. Enrollment data may be received from a plurality of players at respective gaming computers, wherein enrollment data corresponding to a first player of the plurality of players indicates the first player wishes to play in the gaming tournament for a first subset of the gaming tournament time. Each of the gaming computers may be enabled for playing at least one game in the gaming tournament during the gaming tournament time, wherein the gaming computer corresponding to the first player is enabled for the first subset of the gaming tournament time. A first winning player may be determined, if any, from the plurality of players based on outcomes of the games played by the plurality of players. If the first winning player is determined, data indicative of a first value payout to be awarded to the first winning player may be generated.

Abstract: In one aspect, the invention is directed to a method for conducting a wagering game that may include receiving player input corresponding to at least one first entry for a player for at least one occurrence of the wagering game, randomly selecting a supplemental entry for the player for the at least one occurrence of the wagering game such that the total number of game indicia in the first entries and the supplemental entries is equal to a predetermined maximum number of game indicia. The method may also include randomly selecting a drawing subset comprising a predetermined selected number of game indicia from the range of game indicia, comparing the game indicia of the drawing subset to the game indicia of the first entries, and determining whether any of the first entries is a winning entry based on the level of correspondence between the game indicia of the first entry and the game indicia of the drawing subset.

Abstract: A method for awarding a bonus to a player of an electronic gaming device at one of a plurality of casino properties is implemented with a slave server networked with gaming devices at each property. The slave servers are networked with a master server that accumulates a pool comprising a percentage of play on the gaming devices. The pool is initiated with a starting value, which defines the lower end of a range having a predetermined maximum number at the upper end. A number is randomly selected from within the range. As play progresses, the pool increases until it hits the random number. As a result, a slave server is randomly selected. The randomly selected slave server then awards the bonus to a randomly selected one of its associated gaming devices.

Abstract: A wagering gaming device that enables a player to affect the movement of a functional element of a game by use of a user input device. More specifically, the present invention provides a processor controlled wagering gaming device that receives input from a user input device. The user manipulates the input device in the manner in which he wishes the functional element or to move. The processor receives the information from the input device and calculates parameters. The processor moves the functional element. This sequence or feature may be employed in a primary game, bonus game or in any stand alone game.

Abstract: Systems and methods for playing live casino games. The systems have changeable displays which portray virtual symbols to live participants. Assignment of symbols are accomplished using data processing functions within an electronic game processor or processors which enable these functions to be performed. The invention allows casinos to speed play and reduce the risk of cheating while allowing multiple participants to play a multiple participant capable slot machine.

Abstract: A system of linked gaming machines is disclosed herein. Upon a certain triggering event occurring, eligible gaming machines simultaneously receive a signal for initiating a free game bonus round. The player awarded the most credits or points from the play of the free games is awarded a special jackpot. The possibility of the free game bonus round occurring at any time provides incentive for players to keep playing the linked gaming machines. A free game pot, used to fund the free games, is accumulated from a percentage of wagers, where the percentage is dynamically changed based on the level of the free game pot.

Abstract: Disclosed are central determination methods and systems in which pools and sub-pools of outcomes can be distributed among various units of the central determination system. The methods and systems are applicable to Class II and, in some implementations, Class III gaming configurations. The methods and systems disclosed herein can be implemented in a gaming machine network, wherein one of the gaming machines distributes game outcomes to other gaming machines in the network. The gaming machines can be oriented in a peer-to-peer configuration, a central storage medium configuration, a stand alone configuration, an autonomous gaming machine configuration, and other network configurations. Methods are disclosed for managing the distribution of outcomes among the gaming machines in the various networks.

Abstract: A virtual matrix comprised of a plurality of grid elements is provided, on which a hidden pattern, comprised of a plurality of matrix entries, is randomly placed. A player views a gaming matrix having a plurality of visible positions, each visible position corresponding to one of the grid elements. The player chooses at least one of the plurality of visible positions on the gaming matrix, after which the game displays the corresponding grid element of the virtual matrix on the gaming matrix. Based on the correct number of guesses matching the pattern location, the player is awarded and a media presentation signals the player's success. If the player guesses incorrectly, a second media presentation signals the incorrect guess.

Abstract: An electronic gaming console is illustrated having a console cabinet 10 including a prize display 12, a coin entry slot 13, a payout tray 14 and internally mounted game control processor circuits. A video game is provided for play on the console in which images of and objects (balls) are dropped through a series of obstacles (pins) and eventually fill a number of containers. Prizes are paid according to either the number of balls which are in each container at the end of the ball drop and/or the manner in which the pins are hit.

Abstract: A gaming apparatus and method of play including a value input device and a controller operatively coupled to the value input device. The controller receives wager data in response to a wager made by a person on a game, with the wager data including a first plurality of indicia of a first type, a second plurality of indicia of the first type, where the second plurality of indicia potentially randomly selected to replace one or more of the indicia of a first type in at least one of the first plurality of indicia, and the second plurality of indicia also having an indicia of a second type. A winner is determined from matching any of the first plurality of indicia of the first type with any of the second plurality of indicia of the first type, including any replaced indicia, and a value payout is associated with the level of matching.

Abstract: A system and method for operating one or more games for a plurality of players including identifying at least two players participating in a selected one of the games at the expiration of a predetermined time period, and establishing a wager pool corresponding to a total of wager amounts from each of the identified players. The wager pool is reduced by a takeout amount. One or more random numbers are generated, and one or more winners of the selected game are determined based on the one or more random numbers. Funds are distributed from the wager pool to the determined one or more winners of the selected game.

Abstract: An electronic video slot machine enables wild symbols to expand into adjacent symbols positions—vertically, horizontally, and/or diagonally—in the symbol matrix (“Directional Wilds”). In one embodiment, the Directional Wild concept uses wild symbols that expand in a pre-determined vertical direction—upwards or downwards. The upwards wild symbol (“Up Wild”) converts all of the symbol positions above the Up Wild into wild symbols. The downwards wild symbol (“Down Wild”) converts all of the symbol positions below the Down Wild into wild symbols. The original position of the Up or Down Wild symbol is also optionally wild. Various alternative embodiments may optionally be used.

Abstract: In accordance with various embodiments of the present invention, a method is provided for receiving an indication of a wager, determining at least one balance of a gaming device having a plurality of balances, the at least one balance being associated with the wager, and determining an outcome of a play of the gaming device based on the at least one balance.

Abstract: A gaming terminal having a wagering game. The wagering game includes a plurality of symbols that indicate a randomly selected outcome of the wagering game. In response to the randomly selected outcome being a win-deferral outcome, the wagering game provides a player with a selection of immediately obtaining a first award or obtaining a second award under a specified condition.

Abstract: A slot machine of the present invention includes: a display having a screen capable of displaying a symbol arrangement image in which a plurality of symbols are arranged and a plurality of valid area images each having a shape capable of including one or more symbols; and a controller in communication with the display for determining the number of valid area images in accordance with the number of BETs, displaying the symbol arrangement image and the valid area image so as to superpose said valid area images on the symbol arrangement image, in such a manner that said valid area images move and then stop, and providing an award in accordance with a symbol included in the valid area image stopped so that an award in accordance with the symbol included in an overlap area where the valid area images overlap with each other is higher than an award provided in a case of the symbol included in the remaining valid area image.

Abstract: Methods, devices and systems are described for mapping a variety of Class III game outcomes to a common set of bingo patterns. Each game theme may have a different entertaining display, based upon a corresponding Class III game. Preferably, each game theme will offer game play and paytable percentages closely matching those of the original Class III game. In order to more closely match Class III game play, some implementations provide a system wherein the hit frequency of a bingo game will be modulated according to Class III game options selected by a player. The options may be, for example, paylines of a simulated slot game. In preferred implementations, this modulation is accomplished by varying the number of bingo cards provided in the underlying bingo game according to the options (e.g., the number of paylines) selected.

Abstract: A gaming machine including a display for display of symbols; said machine causing said symbols to be displayed in an array of fields; said array of fields in the form of substantially vertically aligned fields and substantially horizontally aligned fields; said symbols selected from a pool of n symbols for populating said array of fields according to the following steps: a. random selection of a first symbol from said pool of n symbols, b. repeating said random selection i times so as to select i+1 symbols from said pool of symbols where n?i+1, c. populating at random at least one column of said array of fields with said i+1 symbols.

Abstract: The present invention includes a variety of methods to provide free games on a slot machine device until the appearance of two or more predetermined symbol combinations in the symbol matrix. A preferred embodiment, Capture Spins, provides free games until three, winning Capture symbol combinations appear in the symbol matrix.

Abstract: System and method for conducting a slot-keno wagering game. A plurality of objects, some of which bear one of a plurality of symbols are provided. The symbols on the plurality of objects are initially hidden from a player. Each of a plurality of stations is associated with one of the plurality of symbols and each of the plurality of stations receives the objects bearing the associated symbols. A wager input is received from the player for a selected one of the plurality of stations. After receiving the wager input, the objects to be revealed are randomly selected. The symbols are revealed and the objects bearing the revealed symbols are moved to the stations associated with the symbols on the revealed objects. The player is provided with a first award in response to a predetermined number of the revealed objects appearing in the selected one of the plurality of stations.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide a method and system for authentication. In one embodiment, a first identifier associated with an item to be authenticated may be received. A first decryption key associated with the item may also be received. The first identifier may be decrypted using the first decryption key to generate a second identifier. The contents of an authentication database may be searched to find a match for the second identifier. If a match for the second identifier is found in the authentication database, the item may be confirmed as authentic. In embodiments of the present invention, the item may be a lottery ticket, a document, a receipt, a ticket, a credit card, etc.

Abstract: An electronic game card allows participants to play multiple game faces, and enables simultaneous game play at different locations. A plurality of display faces are displayed on each card, and additional faces are stored for simultaneous play. Most probable winners of the stored faces are displayed along side the display faces so that the participant can follow stored faces as well. The card may be electronically networked to a local computer which in turn is networked over a larger area to a remote central computer to thereby increase the number of participants in the play group and to increase jackpots.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for playing a version of a video game is provided. Using a computer terminal connected to a network, a player places a bet. Three faces of a three-dimensional cube are displayed. Each face includes N2 squares arranged in a N×N arrangement. One of an ordinary symbol, a multiplier symbol, or a bomb symbol is displayed in each of the squares. The computer determines whether any winning combinations are present, and provides a credit to the player according to the winning combination. When either a winning combination or a bomb symbol is present, certain squares are eliminated. Eliminated squares are refilled by shifting the remaining squares and then randomly generating new symbols. The game continues until there are no winning combinations and no bomb symbols.

Abstract: A parimutuel betting game featuring in-game wagers and payoffs, and real time parimutuel style odds, based on events unfolding during a live event, a principal objective being to acquire the largest number of betting tokens by the end of the event. An administrator oversees a plurality of betting lines associated with betting events. Players are allowed to bet tokens on an open betting line until it is closed by the administrator. The line will close at or before the time the situation in the live event changes appreciably, so the posted odds on the betting lines are in synch with the live event. When a line is closed, a new line may open. When a termination event occurs for a given betting event, the betting event is terminated and all lines that opened since the previous termination are paid off simultaneously in parimutuel style. The betting lines preferably have a hierarchical structure. The game may be played over the Internet.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a system and method for facilitating the extension of a time-based element in a game of chance. In some embodiments, the time-based element may be extended as a result of a random event, such as the outcome of a random number generator. In other embodiments, the time-based element may be extended as a result of a player's purchase of the time extension.

Abstract: According to some embodiments of a video poker game of the present invention, a gaming device and/or controller may be configured to (i) output a pay table, (ii) deal an intermediate outcome, (iii) receive a request from a player to retain/discard a number of identified cards of the intermediate outcome, (iv) replace the discarded cards to create a primary game outcome, (v) determine a payout amount associated with the primary game outcome based on the pay table, (vi) determine one or more strategy options based on the primary game outcome to determine a secondary game outcome (e.g., holding selected cards from any in the final poker hand) (vii) determine a payout amount associated with one or more secondary game outcomes, (viii) receive a player selection to receive a strategy option, (ix) deal cards to a selected strategy, (x) determine whether or not the player achieves a winning secondary game outcome, and if so, (xi) output the payout amount associated with the winning secondary game outcome.

Abstract: A method for creating extra profit from gaming machines (games of chance used in a casino or bingo-hall setting) using progressives, where the progressive amount shown to players is not the amount collected from game play; rather, it is the value which is the sum of payments made from an annuity purchased using the full amount of the contributions made to the progressive, called the amortized value. The amortized value is used to create player excitement and increased base game play in casino environments.

Abstract: The present invention involves an apparatus and method for regenerating or awarding extra chances or opportunities to a player in connection with a gaming device and preferably in a bonus round of a gaming device. The present invention contemplates regenerating or awarding a plurality of extra chances or opportunities upon the occurrence of a predetermined event. More specifically, the present invention contemplates regenerating or awarding a number of extra chances or opportunities equal to the number of chances or opportunities with which the player enters or begins the game or bonus round of the present invention.

Abstract: A gaming machine of the present invention includes: a memory; an input device capable of placing a BET on a predetermined number or less of numerals out of plural numerals; and a controller programmed to execute the processing of: (B) storing BET-numeral information showing the numeral having the BET placed thereon, into the memory; (C) repeatedly executing processing of determining a specific number of numerals out of the plural numerals, for plural games, after having accepted the BET; (D) storing a piece of specific-numeral information showing the determined specific number of numerals, into the memory, every time determining the specific number of numerals in processing (C); and (E) offering a payout, based on the number of numerals overlapping between the numerals shown by the BET-numeral information stored into the memory in processing (B) and the numerals shown by every piece of specific-numeral information stored into the memory in processing (D).

Abstract: According to one embodiment, a player may accumulate occurrences of a bonus symbol over at least two outcomes. The player may be allowed a bonus if a running count of the occurrences is at least equal to a predetermined number. According to another embodiment, a player may accumulate occurrences of matched lottery numbers over a plurality of lottery outcomes (e.g., lottery number drawings) and/or a plurality of lottery entries. The player may be allowed a bonus if a running count of occurrences of matched numbers is at least equal to a predetermined number.

Abstract: A system, method and lottery ticket that implement a lottery game that uses a geometric figure having a plurality of selection spaces from which a player selects at least one selection space. The selection spaces are then populated with one or more game indicia, with each game indicia having a point value, and prizes are awarded based upon the total number of points associated with the game indicia populated into the player-selected selection spaces. Other lottery games can also be played simultaneously therewith on the same ticket or round of play.

Abstract: In accordance with one or more embodiments, a method for determining a set of game symbols for use in a game based on a state of the game is provided, including determining a payout amount to be provided based on a first amount and a second reel outcome, the payout amount being equal to or less than the first amount; wherein a first probability of at least one first symbol being included in a first outcome is different than a second probability of the at least one first symbol being included in the second outcome, the first and second probabilities being greater than zero.

Abstract: Systems and methods are provided to facilitate lottery ticket transactions. A request to purchase a lottery ticket is received, the lottery ticket being associated with a lottery number combination, such as a limited number of lottery tickets or a limited number of players. An indication that the lottery number combination is to be associated with a limited number of occurrences is also received. For example, an indication that the lottery number combination is to be associated with only a single lottery ticket may be received. A price associated with the lottery ticket is determined based on the received indication. According to one embodiment, the price is increased by a predetermined amount based on the received indication.

Abstract: A gaming device for providing awards to players. The gaming device includes an award distributor such as an award wheel having a plurality of sections, each of the sections having or defined by first and second coordinates, a plurality of award symbols included on the sections, an illumination device associated with the sections, a section indicator associated with the award wheel and a processor in communication with the award wheel. The gaming device determines the first coordinate of one of the groups of sections. Then, the gaming device or player spins the award wheel and the section indicator determines the second coordinate of one of the sections in the group, which indicates the section. The gaming device provides any award or symbol to the player that is associated with the indicated section.

Abstract: A progressive gaming method includes producing a set of game records with each game record being associated with a result in a game. Progressive prize bearing records are included in the set of game records according to a progressive win frequency rule. Each progressive prize bearing record is associated with a progressive win indicator and a progressive prize. After producing the game record set, the method includes assigning game records from the game record set to a number of players. Each game record is assigned to a respective player in response to a game play request associated with the respective player. The method also includes awarding a progressive prize to the respective player to whom a progressive prize bearing record is assigned in response to a game play request.

Abstract: After identifying a set of initial game designations to produce a game ending winner for a bingo game, one or more additional game designations may be considered, that is, compared against a bingo card in play in the bingo game. Considering these additional game designations in addition to the set of initial game designations may produce additional matched locations on the bingo card and may produce a winning pattern that would not have been produced considering only the set of initial game designations. This use of additional game designations provides additional opportunities for players to obtain a winning result.

Abstract: Systems and methods are provided to facilitate lottery ticket transactions. A request to purchase a lottery ticket is received, the lottery ticket being associated with a lottery number combination, such as a limited number of lottery tickets or a limited number of players. An indication that the lottery number combination is to be associated with a limited number of occurrences is also received. For example, an indication that the lottery number combination is to be associated with only a single lottery ticket may be received. A price associated with the lottery ticket is determined based on the received indication. According to one embodiment, the price is increased by a predetermined amount based on the received indication.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for displaying multiple gaming device interfaces for the same wagering game is provided. The game can be slot although other wagering games are also within the scope of the present invention. In one embodiment, the exact same game is played using one of a plurality of different display interfaces, wherein the gaming device enables the player to select which interface to play. The player can play the game for a while using one interface and then switch interfaces to provide a fresh display or to change the player's luck. The player can then switch back to the original interface or select a brand new interface depending upon how many interfaces overall are provided.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for displaying multiple interfaces for a gaming device is provided. The game can be slot although other wagering games are also within the scope of the present invention. The interface which is displayed can depend upon the wager level.

Abstract: Systems and methods are provided to facilitate lottery ticket transactions. A request to purchase a lottery ticket is received, the lottery ticket being associated with a lottery number combination, such as a limited number of lottery tickets or a limited number of players. An indication that the lottery number combination is to be associated with a limited number of occurrences is also received. For example, an indication that the lottery number combination is to be associated with only a single lottery ticket may be received. A price associated with the lottery ticket is determined based on the received indication. According to one embodiment the price is increased by a predetermined amount based on the received indication.

Abstract: A wagering game including a wheel and multiple section indicators. The wheel includes a plurality of sections having awards associated with each of the sections. The section indicators associated with the wheel simultaneously indicate sections on the wheel. The awards associated with the sections indicated by the activated section indicators are summed and provided to a player. The number of activated section indicators is predetermined, randomly determined, determined by the player's wager in the primary or base game, determined in a primary game or determined by a sub-game or a set.

Abstract: A slot machine that has a bonus feature related to the “15 puzzle.” An empty space symbol can appear, thereby allowing other symbols to slide around the matrix, creating different payout combinations. The symbols can slide around to create an optimal arrangement of the symbols, and then the player can be paid on paylines.

Abstract: A gaming device and method for playing a gaming device which provide awards for any and all symbols appearing within selected portions of a symbol matrix (“What You See Is What You Get” or “WYSIWYG”).

Abstract: The present invention generally provides a sequential method for producing and/or casting a film, television, play or other form of entertainment. More specifically, a lottery based system is implemented so that the winning person obtains rights to be a subject in a play, television show, film or other form of entertainment. The winning person may actually act in the project or the winning person may elect to have an actor play him or her in the project. Audience members who obtain tickets to showings of the project are themselves given a lottery ticket to obtain the rights to be a subject in a subsequent play, television show or film. Further, the winning audience member may also obtain a prize, such as cash, for winning the lottery. The process repeats itself so that a subject of each new project is taken from the audience of the previous project. The cycle may continue until future audiences no longer support the running project.

Abstract: The present invention provides an improved Keno game, which provides an opportunity for the player to win free games. In Keno, the player chooses an amount of numbers to play, usually one to fifteen, and plays against the house. The game or house randomly generates numbers, usually twenty numbers from the numbers one to eighty. The number of matches generated and the amount of numbers the player plays determines whether and how much the player wins. One or more of the random generations is also a free game generation in the present invention, which provides one or more free Keno games to the player if the free game generation results in a match.