Abstract: A preferred method includes displaying a plurality of indicia-bearing game pieces 12 on a gaming grid 14. A player then selects game pieces 12 that are adjacent and that have matching indicia 16. Preferably, the matching adjacent game pieces 34 that are selected are then removed from the gaming grid 14. One or more prizes are awarded in association with the selection and removal of the matching adjacent game pieces 34. Preferably, the player is also provided with the ability to shuffle any remaining non-selected game pieces 32, after all matching adjacent game pieces that are perceived by the player are selected and removed. In this regard, it is possible that the player may overlook some matching adjacent game pieces 34. Additionally, some preferred embodiment gaming methods incorporate the use of multiple indicia 16 on each game piece 12 for potentially matching with adjacent game pieces.

Abstract: An enhanced mechanical gaming system (10) utilizes a touch panel (40) as a user control device for mechanical assemblies and game play features which provides users with the enhanced flexibility and interactivity of a video gaming device in a mechanical gaming device environment. The enhanced mechanical gaming system (10) includes a gaming machine assembly (20), a touch sensor assembly (30) incorporating a substantially transparent touch panel (40), a touch panel controller (50), and touch panel software (60). The gaming machine assembly is a standard gaming machine assembly that has been modified to utilize touch-panel components. The touch panel (40) and the sensor assembly (30) produce touch data when activated, and provide viewing of mechanical assemblies behind the touch panel (40). The touch panel controller (50) acts to control and interpret the touch panel (40).

Abstract: A multiple bonus modifier game 10 includes a base game and two or more base award modifiers operating independently or simultaneously of each other (i.e., the two or more base award modifiers operate independently of each other or in conjunction with each other to modify a base game award). The multiple bonus modifier game 10 comprises a base game 20 that includes a plurality of spinning reels, a first base award modifier 30 that includes at least one spinning reel, and a second base award modifier 40 that includes at least one additional spinning reel. The outcome of the spinning reels in the base game 20 defines a base game award 25. The outcome of the spinning reel in the first base award modifier 30 defines a first modifier award 35, which adjusts the base game award. The outcome of the additional spinning reel in the second base award modifier 40 defines a second modifier award 45, which potentially adjusts the combined base game award 25 and first modifier award 35, if both awards are given.

Abstract: A gaming method includes spinning the plurality of reels 20 within a display window 30 of the gaming machine 10. A subset of the spinning reels 20 is then selected for use in determining the game outcome. The non-selected reels are removed from a player's view within the display window 30. The selected reels are then appealingly repositioned into a closer grouping within the display window. The gaming machine then determines if the selected and repositioned reels produce a winning game outcome. A prize is awarded if a winning game outcome is achieved.