Abstract: A method and system for playing a poker matrix game is described. The game is configured for playing via a casino-type gaming machine in which a player selects at least one betting line, such as, for example horizontal, vertical, and/or diagonal betting lines, to place a wager on. The player activates the spinners causing a random matrix of cards to be displayed. The random cards are evaluated for determining if the at least one selected betting line includes a winning poker hand.

Abstract: A method and apparatus are disclosed for facilitating coinless transactions by rounding a fractional transaction cost up or down to a whole-unit amount. A fractional transaction cost is rounded up or down to a whole-unit amount based on a generated random number that ensures fairness to both buyers and sellers, over time. If a transaction purchase price is N.C units, where N is any non-negative integer and C is an integer between 0 and 99 indicating the fractional cost between 0 and 0.99, then a buyer will be charged N+1 units with a probability of p equal to C/100 and N units with a probability of 1?p. The random number generation process can ensure that the rounding process does not favor buyers or sellers, for example, by (i) incorporating a buyer-provided offset, or (ii) having the generation of the random number performed or supervised by a trusted third party.

Abstract: A method for playing a game has the steps of establishing a plurality of paths, each of which have a plurality of squares including a start square, an end square, and a plurality of value squares. Randomly traversing the paths to afford the possibility of two or more moves to reach the end square. Allowing a player to select one of the paths. Moving along the player selected path randomly, while awarding the player the values associated with squares landed upon. The randomness is by the steps of spinning a spinner, rolling a die or dice, employing a wheel, flipping a coin, or the use of a random number generator. The step of establishing a plurality of paths, each having a plurality of squares includes using a stop square, squares which cause additional movement. The steps of establishing intersecting paths or establishing one or more squares having a game associated with them are practiced. The method is in a casino game and a bonus game for a base game.

Abstract: In certain embodiments, the present invention relates to a gaming apparatus comprising a gaming device adapted to allow a player to place a wager and play a game of chance having a randomly determined outcome. The gaming apparatus includes a plurality of moveable objects and a moveable display object comprising a plurality of compartments adapted to receive a moveable object. A display object actuator may be coupled to the moveable display object and configure to move the moveable display object. A controller is in communication with the game device and the moveable display object actuator, the controller being configured to move the moveable display object to a position determined by a random game outcome and to cause at least one of the plurality of moveable objects to enter a compartment of the moveable display object that conveys the game outcome.

Abstract: A reel mechanism for use with a gaming system that includes at least one support member and at least a first and second reel assembly attached to the support member. Each reel assembly comprises at least one chassis attached to the support member and at least one reel rotatably attached to the chassis. The reels include a first side, attached to the chassis, and a second side. The reel assemblies include at least one motor coupled to the reel, the motor being configured to rotate the reel. The reel assemblies are positioned side-by-side, the second side of the reel of the first reel assembly is positioned proximate to the second side of the reel of the second reel assembly; allowing the first and second reel assemblies to be positioned without the chassis of the first and second reel assemblies being in-between the fist and second reel assemblies.

Abstract: The present invention includes a gaming device comprising a game apparatus being adapted to allow a player to play a game and a jumbled ball display device. The jumbled ball display device includes a plurality of display balls, at least one container adapted to hold the display balls, and at least one agitator adapted to agitate the display balls inside of the container. The container preferably includes at least one portion that is at least partially transparent, which allows the player to view the balls in the container. The jumbled ball display device preferably does not affect the outcome of the game played on the game apparatus. The gaming device further includes a prize display in communication with the game apparatus. The prize display is preferably adapted to select a prize ball to convey the outcome of the game and display the selected prize ball. The gaming device also preferably includes a media dispenser in communication with the game apparatus.

Abstract: Systems, methods and gaming sets for progressive games, including progressive pull-tab games. The gaming sets include a plurality of plays, which in some embodiments take the form of pull-tab cards, and in some embodiments are electronic plays. The plays are associated with indicia of redemption value, with the set of plays including at least one jackpot play of underdetermined total value prior to dispensing of the play, and at least one set of plays with a predetermined value.

Abstract: The specification discloses a multi-wheel game-of-chance having at least two groups of spinning wheels, wherein each group includes at least two concentric spinning wheels having a viewable surface face thereon. A plurality of indicia are positioned on the peripheral of the viewable surface face of each wheel such that all indicia on each wheel is viewable to the user. Bet areas are positioned at various locations around at least a portion of each group of wheels; along a line joining the center of any two groups of wheels; and/or a junction between various radially positioned lines extending from the center of two or more groups of wheels. Each bet area represents a possible payline with various pay ratios depending on the probability of various predetermined combinations.

Abstract: An electronic die capable of exhibiting visual and/or sound effects is disclosed. The die retains the conventional dice-action aspect of being rolled to randomly select an upwardly facing facet. The electronic components provide entertainment effects. Electronic displays, which can include light-emitting dots, are located on the sides of the die for showing the visual effects. An electronic circuit, contained within the die, controls output of the displays. One or more batteries are also contained inside the die for powering the displays and the electronic circuit. To ensure that the die is suitable for playing dice games, the displays, electronic circuit and batteries are securely mounted to withstand the die being thrown. The die can have a hollow compartment for holding the batteries and electronic circuit, or alternatively, the die can be formed using injection molding or casting techniques to embed the electrical components in a solid plastic body.

Abstract: Transparent blank symbols are disposed on each of first, second and third display parts respectively provided in first, second and third display plates. The player wins if the same symbols of the first to third display parts are arranged in line on any of winning lines when the first to third display plates stop rotating. When the blank symbols of the first to third display parts are arranged in line on any of winning lines, the reel mounting plate starts rotating until the sub reel reaches the position behind the blank symbols. Then, the sub reel rotates and stops to display move and stop of the symbols. The symbol on the sub reel is observable through transparent parts in the blank symbols.

Abstract: A method for playing a game has the steps of establishing a plurality of paths, each of which have a plurality of squares including a start square, an end square, and a plurality of value squares. Randomly traversing the paths to afford the possibility of two or more moves to reach the end square. Allowing a player to select one of the paths. Moving along the player selected path randomly, while awarding the player the values associated with squares landed upon. The randomness is by the steps of spinning a spinner, rolling a die or dice, employing a wheel, flipping a coin, or the use of a random number generator. The step of establishing a plurality of paths, each having a plurality of squares includes using a stop square, squares which cause additional movement. The steps of establishing intersecting paths or establishing one or more squares having a game associated with them are practiced. The method is in a casino game and a bonus game for a base game.

Abstract: A display device for a gaming device which includes concentric rotating displays, wherein an outer one of the displays is also operable to translate with respect to an inner one of the displays. The inner display includes multiple rows of symbols. The outer display includes multiple indicating viewing areas. Each of the viewing areas is also associated with a symbol. When the displays eventually stop, one of the viewing areas that is positioned furthest most towards the front of the machine enables one of the symbols of the first display to be seen by the player. That symbol is made part of an outcome from the sequence in combination with the symbol of the second display associated with the viewing area that indicates the symbol of the first display.

Abstract: An apparatus and a method of play in the practice of the present invention that are described below. An apparatus supporting the play of a casino table card game according to the present invention may comprise: A playing surface; A card-delivery device; A microprocessor operatively connected to the card-delivery device; Player controlled election identifiers that provide a visible signal of an election; At least two areas for display of at least partial card hands from which only one card hand may be elected for a wagering game by a player; The card-delivery device having at least one sensor thereon for sensing the presence of cards in a delivery area of the card-delivery device from which cards may be removed; The at least one sensor on the card-delivery device providing a signal to the microprocessor that a sensed set of cards has been removed from the delivery area; and in response to the signal, the microprocessor preventing players from entering a new election.

Abstract: This invention relates to a game of chance combining the attributes of lottery and casino style games. The game involves the selection of three numbers by a player from the group consisting of the digits 0 through 9 and wagering what combinations and permutations of those numbers will appear on a grid of randomly selected numbers. Winning matches pay an amount based on the probability of the combination or permutation occurring.

Abstract: A gaming machine for playing a lotto or bingo type game has display means, and game control means arranged to control images displayed on the display means. The game control means are arranged to play a game in which a player makes a selection, on the machine, of a series of indicia chosen from a larger group of indicia, and the game control means are arranged to generate a series of indicia drawn at random from the larger group of indicia. The display means show, in a predetermined location, those indicia which have been selected for comparison with the players selected indicia. A prize being awarded if more than a predetermined number of matches occur.

Abstract: A gaming apparatus provides symbols to determine winning outcomes. An object-element passes in a path through displayed pathways on a display. As the object-element passes over symbol collecting positions on the display in the pathways, symbols on collecting positions are activated as part of a game display. The gaming apparatus provides at least one award for predetermined combinations of symbols. The object-element should collect at least two symbols in a single pass through the path.

Abstract: A bonus scheme for a gaming device which involves a symbol marker which advances along one or more paths. The paths include a plurality of symbols and one or more path change conditions. If a path change condition occurs, the symbol marker moves from one path to a different path. While advancing along certain paths, the player has the opportunity to gain bonus value depending upon which symbol the symbol marker visits. This type of bonus scheme increases player excitement for gaming devices.

Abstract: A gaming device which includes a display having multiple rotating members and at least one rotating indicator. The members each include at least one symbol. The symbols represent various types of awards that the player can win. The members move or spin. At the same time or at a different time, the one or more indicator moves or spins. At varying times, each of the symbols of the members will be closer to the indicator than the other symbols, i.e., in an indicating position. At varying times, the moving indicator indicates, or points, to each of the members and thus one of the symbols of the members. Ultimately, the members and the indicators stop moving, and the indicator indicates one of the symbols from one of the members. An outcome such as an award is provided to the player that is based on the indicated symbol.

Abstract: A gaming machine comprising a container for holding a plurality of numbered balls which are agitated by an air source. A plurality of compartments incorporated on a rotatable wheel in communication with the container capture one or more of the numbered balls. Each of the numbered balls or certain identified captured balls are used to determine a gaming machine award. Certain captured balls may be identified by one or more pointers positioned about the container. In a keno version of the gaming machine a player is afforded the opportunity to select one or more keno numbers using a player interface. An award is then determined based on the numbers on the captured balls and the selected keno numbers. The balls are captured by opening one or more access doors blocking the compartments thereby exposing the balls to a vacuum in the compartment.

Abstract: A gaming device for playing a game by a game player. The gaming device allows the game player to place a telephone call. A controller generates a prize. Several images of persons who may receive the telephone call are displayed to the game player. The telephone call is placed to one of the images. The prize is announced by the selected image to the game player. A second telephone call is placed to a telephone number in order to select a multiplier. The controller generates the multiplier. The multiplier is the last digit of the telephone number. The prize is multiplied by the multiplier to obtain a total prize.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for a slot machine game with one or more reels and a rotator has stepper motors to randomly drive the stepper motors in accord with a programmed central processing unit. At least one of the stepper motors is relocated from the belly box to the top box to provide a drive for a rotator in the top box. The stepper motor in the top box is reoriented so that its shaft is normal to a front glass over the top box. A pointer can be placed on the end of the shaft to randomly rotate.

Abstract: A gaming machine adapted to print validated tickets for a game player includes a microprocessor for controlling game operation (e.g., slot machine operation) and including a cashout signal input, a network interface coupled to the microprocessor for communicating with a central authority, and a memory in the network interface that stores a pre-loaded ticket validation number received from the central authority. In addition, a ticket printer is coupled to the microprocessor for printing a ticket that includes pending credit indicia and pre-loaded ticket validation indicia in response to a cashout signal on the cashout signal input. After the ticket is printed, the gaming machine obtains a new pre-loaded validation number in preparation for the next ticket printing event.

Abstract: A random number selector selects a random number. A symbol selector selects a symbol associated with the random number. A symbol display displays the symbol. A sound data selector selects at least one of a plurality of sound data based on the random number. A sound reproducer reproduces the at least one sound data as an audible sound, at a predetermined timing while the symbol is displayed.

Abstract: A gaming device that provides a second or replicating display that is an enlarged, preferably simulated replica of the actual display of the reels, paylines and indicia of the paystops of the gaming device. The second or replicating display can exactly recreate the actual rotation or random generation of the reels, represent the random generation of the reels, and do so by providing a slight delay. The present invention also contains a method by which the replicating display presents each of a plurality of award generating or winning paylines individually and sequentially for a predetermined amount of time before culminating in a display of the accumulated winning paylines. The method enables the player to easily see the source of an award, which would otherwise be difficult to discern from a multitude of paylines.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for generating and accounting for vouchers or tickets is disclosed. In accordance with a method of the invention, a voucher is issued by a voucher generation device associated with a gaming system which includes one or more gaming machines and a host. The method includes generating data regarding a voucher to be printed, creating a record regarding the voucher and printing the voucher at the voucher generation device. The generated voucher information is transmitted from the remote voucher generation device to the host. The printed voucher may be presented at the naming machine, with the authenticity of the voucher and its value determined by utilizing the voucher information stored at the host.

Abstract: A gaming apparatus includes a housing with a front operable surface and a visual display region thereon. The visual display region includes a plurality of windows disposed in a rectangular positional array of four rows and four columns with a plurality of paylines defined by a line intersecting four adjacent elements in a single row, column or diagonal on the array. A button or mechanical arm on the housing will cause all of the symbols in the array to be randomly selected and displayed as part of a gaming sequence. A payout is generated if one or more of the selected paylines contain a predetermined number of predetermined symbols. In a second embodiment of the invention, the housing includes a screen display of a roulette wheel of the type having four different colored balls simultaneously moving around the wheel, each ball operable to fall within one of thirty-eight slots on the wheel and the slots of a size to receive up to all four balls.

Abstract: The present invention provides a gaming device having wild indicator symbols associated with symbols displayed within a display device on a set of reels. The wild indicator symbols may also be associated with a card or plurality of cards within a display device. A processor determines whether the wild indicators will be associated with the symbols or cards and also determines if the wild indicators will be activated. If the wild indicators are activated, the processor transforms those symbols or cards associated with the wild indicators into wild symbols or wild cards.

Abstract: A display device comprising a plurality of prize balls, a ball holder adapted to hold the balls in an individually controlled manner, a controller adapted to select a prize ball, a display mechanism adapted to display the selected prize ball to the player; and a positioning mechanism in communication with the controller adapted to position the selected prize ball relative to the display mechanism. The display device may be combined with a jumbled ball display, or separate, upwardly extending rotatable action ball or unit container with agitated action balls, wherein the balls displayed by the display device appear to originate from the jumbled ball display, or the alternative action ball or unit container. The display device may also be combined with a game apparatus that is adapted to allow players to play a game. In this embodiment, the display device may provide a bonus award for the player. Several games are also provided that may be used with the display device.

Abstract: A disclosed smart card includes a processor and memory configured to execute a number of gaming applications, such as a bonus game application, a progressive game application, a voucher application and a paytable application, and communicate with a master gaming controller on the gaming machine. Gaming instructions, generated during the execution of one or more of the gaming application on the smart card, may be used to affect game play on the gaming machine. The gaming instructions for various gaming services may be supplied to gaming machines operating in a “stand alone” mode or gaming machine connected to some type of dedicated network. In addition, the smart card may store game components including audio game components and video game components that may be downloaded into a gaming machine and incorporated into a game presentation on the gaming machine. The smart card may be utilized at many different venues including casinos, hotels, bars, restaurants and retail stores.

Abstract: A device for dispensing prizes includes a housing having a plurality of compartments, a door attached to the housing for coving the compartments, and a lock for limiting access to the compartments. The contents of the compartments are visible from the outside. Each compartment contains a prize, such as a diamond. The housing may be part of, or linked to, a gaming device. When a player wins a game, which entitles the player to select a tangible award, the device signals this fact to the player. The player then selects a compartment by pressing an input device located on the housing. An attendant opens an external door, and inserts an electronic key into a receptacle associated with the selected compartment, and enters a required code into the key. The compartment then opens, and the player obtains the prize. The device may also include an inventory control system which preferably uses an RFID apparatus for monitoring the contents of each compartment, and for keeping records of an inventory of prizes.

Abstract: Methods of playing games of chance and gaming devices comprise a first gaming unit, e.g., three reels, and a display of a bingo-type game actuatable in response to a signal from the first gaming unit.

Abstract: A dual wagering game method for one or more players based on simultaneous participation in two mutually exclusive game components with a payoff being the product of the game component outcomes. Wagers are made in both a repeatable base game component and a nonrepeatable bonus game component which components are mutually exclusive. The outcome of the bonus game component results in a multiplier value. Winnings from repeated plays of the base game component are accumulated until a game ending event occurs and the player receives a payout of any accumulated winnings from the base game component multiplied by the multiplier value determined in the bonus game component.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for playing a table game is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a base, a table-top, and a payline display proximate the table-top. The table-top is adjustable into first and second positions relative to the base. The table game is intended to be played when the table-top is in its first position.

Abstract: Gaming devices comprising a standard gaming unit, e.g., three reels, and a discernible additional payout indicator, e.g., a rotatable wheel. A preferred bonus payout indicator is clearly visible by the player and is actuatable when the reels of the slot machine stop on certain predetermined indicia. A preferred embodiment further comprises a payout multiplier which displays a plurality of values by which a payout may be multiplied.

Abstract: The present invention includes an interactive keno game method that comprises receiving at least one player selected symbol from a player during a game session. The at least one player selected symbol is drawn from a set of game symbols. The method then proceeds to receive a condition from the player that identifies the player credits applied for each chargeable action. The condition describes the number of credits that are to be played during each chargeable action. Each chargeable action includes the picking of at least one game selected symbol from the set of game symbols. During a game session the chargeable actions are performed more than once. Additionally, if there is a match between the at least one game selected symbol and the at least one player selected symbol the game session is paused. Furthermore, a prize may be awarded to the player when the at least one player selected symbol matches the at least one game selected symbol.

Abstract: During operation of a casino game, a hint feature is displayed with a displayed decision-making game round under control of a processor. A memory may store a plurality of decision-making game rounds. A hint contains response information for a player to increase the player's odds in winning the game round The displaying of the hint feature may occur at a random statistical frequency, based upon player hesitation, or a prevailing position in the game round. The hint is stored with each game round or is dynamically determined for the displayed game round.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a portable, hand-held electronic device in mug shape for playing games of chance or fortune telling. It is a drinking mug as well as a device capable of producing and displaying random numbers or graphics for use in games of chance or fortune telling. It generally comprises a mug-shaped container, a base and a display ring. By changing the display ring, different games of chance and fortune telling can be played between two or more players together in bars, taverns, restaurants or at home.

Abstract: A display device comprising a plurality of prize balls, a ball holder adapted to hold the balls in an individually controlled manner, a controller adapted to select a prize ball, a display mechanism adapted to display the selected prize ball to the player; and a positioning mechanism in communication with the controller adapted to position the selected prize ball relative to the display mechanism. The display device may be combined with a jumbled ball display, or separate, upwardly extending rotatable action ball or unit container with agitated action balls, wherein the balls displayed by the display device appear to originate from the jumbled ball display, or the alternative action ball or unit container. The display device may also be combined with a game apparatus that is adapted to allow players to play a game. In this embodiment, the display device may, preferably in conjunction with a board game, provide a bonus award for the player.

Abstract: A system and method for automatically adjusting the sound volume of a gaming machine based on the ambient noise level to an appropriate level. The gaming machine may implement an open loop control algorithm when the machine's sound output is inactive as determined, e.g., by software, or by analyzing samples from a soundboard. A closed loop control algorithm may be implemented when the gaming machine is active. Alternatively, the machine may implement only an open loop algorithm that provides volume adjustment only when the machine's sound output is inactive, in which case the adjusted volume is maintained through an active period, then adjusted again at the next inactive period. A saturation back off feature prevents the sound level of the gaming machine from escalating to, and remains at, a maximum, saturation level.

Abstract: The present invention provides a gaming device having a wild activation symbol displayed on a set of reels or set of cards within a display device. The processor causes other symbols or cards to become wild within the display device when the wild termination symbol is displayed. When the wild activation symbol is displayed, the present invention may also provide a wild termination symbol on the set of reels or the set of cards within a display device. The processor may then stop symbols or cards from becoming wild based on the position of the wild termination symbol.

Abstract: A method for playing a game has the steps of establishing a plurality of paths, each of which have a plurality of squares including a start square, an end square, and a plurality of value squares. Randomly traversing the paths to afford the possibility of two or more moves to reach the end square. Allowing a player to select one of the paths. Moving along the player selected path randomly, while awarding the player the values associated with squares landed upon. The randomness is by the steps of spinning a spinner, rolling a die or dice, employing a wheel, flipping a coin, or the use of a random number generator. The step of establishing a plurality of paths, each having a plurality of squares includes using a stop square, squares which cause additional movement. The steps of establishing intersecting paths or establishing one or more squares having a game associated with them are practiced. The method is in a casino game and a bonus game for a base game.

Abstract: A new partnering game and method of playing same for enabling male and female players to anonymously select a player of their liking and determining whether or not the selected player likes them in such manner that only a mutually self-selected male-female couple knows of the selection. A method for revealing admirers of the players is also provided.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods and systems for interactively playing a lottery-type game among a number of players. In one embodiment, this is accomplished on a network of gaming terminals in communication with a central controller. An objective of the game is for a player to select the number closest to the randomly selected number that represents the winning number for the lottery game. This is a significant departure from the prior art, in that the game of the present invention does not require an exact match to produce a win and in that the game results in a win for every drawing. Thus, the lottery-type game of the present invention improves the gaming experience for the player, which will result in prolonged and more frequent play, thereby maximizing revenues for the operator of the game.

Abstract: A display device comprising a plurality of prize balls, a ball holder adapted to hold the balls in an individually controlled manner, a controller adapted to select a prize ball, a display mechanism adapted to display the selected prize ball to the player; and a positioning mechanism in communication with the controller adapted to position the selected prize ball relative to the display mechanism. The display device may be combined with a jumbled ball display wherein the balls displayed by the display device appear to originate from the jumbled ball display. The display device may also be combined with a game apparatus that is adapted to allow players to play a game. In this embodiment, the display device may provide a bonus award for the player. Several games are also provided that may be used with the display device. In an alternative embodiment, the jumbled ball display is replaced with a video display device that displays the balls in video form.

Abstract: A gaming device comprising a gaming apparatus configured to allow a player to place a wager and play a game and a bonus display configured to indicate a bonus prize to be awarded to the player. One embodiment of the gaming device comprises at least one game reel having a plurality of game symbols. At least one symbol on the game reel may indicate a game outcome. The gaming device also comprises at least one bonus position reel having a plurality of bonus position symbols. The bonus position reel does not have gaming symbols and does not display the outcome of the game. The bonus position symbol displayed by the bonus position reel changes the bonus display in a predetermined relationship.

Abstract: A gaming machine 10 has a display 14 and a game controller arranged to control images displayed on the display 14. The game controller is operable to play a game 16 of bingo wherein the display 14 displays a plurality of bingo cards simultaneously, at least one of the bingo cards being selected by a person playing the game in order for that person to play the game of bingo.

Abstract: Systems, methods and gaming sets for progressive games, including progressive pull-tab games. The gaming sets include a plurality of plays, which in some embodiments take the form of pull-tab cards, and in some embodiments are electronic plays. The plays are associated with indicia of redemption value, with the set of plays including at least one jackpot play of underdetermined total value prior to dispensing of the play, and at least one set of plays with a predetermined value.

Abstract: The present invention provides a rotating bill acceptor for use with a gaming device. The gaming device includes a cabinet with a locking mechanism, where the bill acceptor is rotatably mounted within the cabinet and removably engages the locking mechanism. The locking mechanism includes one or two pins connected to the cabinet, wherein the pins are engaged by an engagement member on the bill acceptor. The bill acceptor rotates between a bill insertion position and a bill removal position and includes a cash box removably connected to the bill acceptor, which stores the bills until removed and emptied.

Abstract: The present invention consists of a method of displaying games related to slot machine games. The method consists of: 1) using a three-dimensional structure as the basis of the display of The method with the primary plane of the three-dimensional structure as the center attraction of the screen of the electronic gaming device and the secondary planes around, 2) displaying the basic playing structure of The method on the primary plane, 3) allowing gamers to place bets on the primary plane and on other secondary planes, 4) starting The method with the display of moving symbols on all the different planes of the three dimensional structure until they are stopped, and 5) awarding prizes to The methods in regard to the bets placed in The method on the planes of the three-dimensional structure, therefore in regard to the different represented planes.

Abstract: A method of playing a wagering game, which is based upon a long-duration, multi-step game is disclosed. The method utilizes an underlying game that allows the player to perform predefined chargeable actions while the player is playing the underlying game. The player is charged for each chargeable action the player performs. The player is awarded a prize if a predefined prize event or condition occurs during the game. A player's skill could determine the amount of credits charged for chargeable actions as well as the duration of the underlying game. The method of the present invention may be applied to solitaire, poker, blackjack, slot machines, keno, bingo, and many other kinds of games.