Abstract: A gaming machine displays a set of virtual center reels, creating an M×N array of symbols, and an independent set of virtual peripheral reels surrounding the M×N array. The peripheral reels are part of a secondary game, and each peripheral reel displays only one symbol position. The center reels contain at least one trigger symbol for trigging the secondary game. The center reels are displayed on a separate, set-back display to give the illusion of motorized mechanical reels. Awards are granted for winning symbol combinations on the center reels. If the trigger condition exists, a bonus award is granted for winning symbol combinations on the peripheral reels. The bonus award may be based on the number of peripheral symbols that match the displayed trigger symbol or may be based on other criteria. In one embodiment, the trigger symbols are only on one of the center reels.

Abstract: A gaming machine displays a set of virtual center reels, creating an M×N array of symbols, and an independent set of virtual peripheral reels surrounding the M×N array. The peripheral reels are part of a secondary game, and each peripheral reel displays only one symbol position. The center reels contain at least one trigger symbol for trigging the secondary game. Each of the reels spins and randomly stops. Awards are granted for winning symbol combinations on the center reels. If the trigger symbol is displayed in the M×N array, or other trigger condition exists, a bonus award is granted for winning symbol combinations on the peripheral reels. The bonus award may be based on the number of peripheral symbols that match the displayed trigger symbol or may be based on other criteria. In one embodiment, the trigger symbols are only on one of the center reels.

Abstract: A gaming machine displays a set of virtual center reels, creating an M×N array of symbols, and an independent set of virtual peripheral reels surrounding the M×N array. The peripheral reels are part of a secondary game, and each peripheral reel displays only one symbol position. The center reels contain at least one trigger symbol for trigging the secondary game. Each of the reels spins and randomly stops. Awards are granted for winning symbol combinations on the center reels. If the trigger symbol is displayed in the M×N array, or other trigger condition exists, a bonus award is granted for winning symbol combinations on the peripheral reels. The bonus award may be based on the number of peripheral symbols that match the displayed trigger symbol or may be based on other criteria. In one embodiment, the trigger symbols are only on one of the center reels.

Abstract: The player places a bet in a gaming machine prior to initiating the game of chance, such as a reel-type game, wherein an award amount for a winning outcome of the game is based on the amount bet. The player initiates the game, such as starting the spinning of reels, which locks out further bets by the player. The reels stop in sequence and, if prior to the last reel stopping, a trigger event occurs, such as a certain number of wild symbols occurring, the game is immediately halted prior to the game being completed. The machine then automatically places a supplemental bet without player intervention, where the supplemental bet is not deducted from the player's bank of credits. The game then continues on until completion. The award to the player for any winning combinations is based on the player's bet and the supplemental bet. Other variations are described.