Pool Carryover (e.g., Progressive Jackpot, Etc.) Patents (Class 463/27)
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Publication number: 20130084966Abstract: Disclosed herein are techniques and equipment for providing a multi-currency progressive jackpot system. In addition to a primary jackpot currency, other currencies may participate in the jackpot as well. If any currency wins the jackpot, the jackpot resets for all currencies.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 4, 2011Publication date: April 4, 2013Applicant: IGTInventor: Mark C. Nicely
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Publication number: 20130084967Abstract: The present invention provides a gaming apparatus, method and system for transferring the play of a feature earned from one gaming machine, provided as a system bonus or as a promotional award to another gaming machine. The apparatus, method and system provides for selection between feature values FVA?FVX of the gaming machine.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 27, 2012Publication date: April 4, 2013Applicant: BALLY GAMING, INCInventor: Bally Gaming, Inc
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Patent number: 8408993Abstract: A method of gaming is disclosed wherein progressive award values may be increased in response to certain pre-established game outcomes, wager amounts or random events. The increased progressive award values may be based on a primary game or secondary game outcome. Another innovation is the resetting of progressive awards upon completion of a bonus event whether or not award actually won in said bonus event. Player tracking systems permit progressive award values to be linked to a particular player such that the progressive award values remain personal to the player. Re-setting increased progressive award values is also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: January 8, 2010Date of Patent: April 2, 2013Assignee: IGTInventors: Ernie M. Lafky, Mark C. Nicely
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Patent number: 8408995Abstract: Where a drawing machine for jackpot game is utilized in a game system in which a plurality of game apparatuses are divided into a plurality of groups for management, a payout ratio is easily managed for each group. The drawing machine for jackpot game performs a group drawing for selecting one winning group among a plurality of groups and performs a winner determining process for determining a winner among players who play game apparatuses belonging to the winning group, thereby performing a jackpot drawing.Type: GrantFiled: February 3, 2009Date of Patent: April 2, 2013Assignee: Konami Digital Entertainment Co., Ltd.Inventors: Takashi Uchiyama, Kazuhiro Kusuda, Nobuhiro Goto
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Patent number: 8408994Abstract: The present disclosure provides a gaming device, a gaming system and a method for operating a gaming device or gaming system with a plurality of progressive awards. The gaming device enables a player to select one of the progressive awards. The player's selection of which progressive award to play for is based, at least in part, on a relative probability of the player winning the selected progressive award compared to the relative probabilities of the player winning the non-selected progressive awards. After selecting which award to play for, the gaming device either provides the selected progressive award to the player or modifies the relative probability that the player will win the selected progressive award with one or more of any award selections remaining. Such a configuration enables the player to strategically select which award to play for and the order that the player will play for the awards.Type: GrantFiled: February 17, 2010Date of Patent: April 2, 2013Assignee: IGTInventors: Anthony J. Baerlocher, Alexander Casey Naglestad Cohen, Tonja Marie Ferry, Adam Koby
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Publication number: 20130079072Abstract: In an embodiment, a gaming system includes a plurality of gaming devices and a controller configured to communicate with the gaming devices. The gaming system enables a plurality of players to play an interactive game in a non-competitive mode and in a competitive mode. If at least two players play the interactive game in the competitive mode, for a competitive wagering event, which includes a competition between two players, the gaming system determines a winning player and a losing player. The gaming system causes the winning player to contribute a winning player portion toward a wager associated with the competitive wagering event and causes the losing player to contribute a losing player portion toward the wager associated with the competitive wagering event. The losing player portion is less than the winning player portion. The gaming system randomly determines and provides any awards to the winning player based on the wager.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 16, 2012Publication date: March 28, 2013Applicant: IGTInventor: IGT
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Publication number: 20130079125Abstract: A gaining system comprising an electronic gaining machine having an associated players station interface device configured to monitor the turnover of the electronic gaming machine and having an interface device display configured to display an interface device electronic game such that a predetermined proportion of the electronic gaming machine turnover is pulled into an interface device electronic game jackpot controlled by a control server in communication with the player station interface device wherein an electronic trigger is sent from the control server to the player station interface device to commence an interface device game and wherein the control server is configured to provide a payout for a user winning the interface device game.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 14, 2012Publication date: March 28, 2013Applicant: LIONS SHARE (AUSTT) PTY LTDInventor: Kenneth L. Vaughan
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Publication number: 20130072294Abstract: A computer-implemented method of playing a game on a plurality of networked terminals comprises receiving a plurality of requests to play the first game, facilitating play of the first game on at least one of the plurality of networked terminals, triggering play of a second game at a particular point in time, determining eligible players whom are eligible to play the second game from a plurality of players submitting requests to play the first game, in response to receiving each of the plurality of requests from the eligible players that occur after the particular point in time, facilitating a play of the second game concurrently with a respective play of the first game, determining which plays of the second game result in a prize, and decrementing a second game total prize pool by an amount of each prize that results from each play of the second game.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 15, 2012Publication date: March 21, 2013Applicant: GATEWAY SYSTEMS, LLCInventor: Gateway Systems, LLC
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Patent number: 8398484Abstract: A system and method for an instant online lottery game is disclosed. The system for an instant online lottery game can comprise a server and a plurality of instant online lottery units. The server can store a progressive jackpot that can be won with an instant online lottery number, wherein the progressive jackpot can increase in size based on a portion of ticket sales revenue or the number of tickets sold. The server can have a first random number generator that can generate the instant online lottery number and a second random number generator that generates a plurality of game-play combinations. The instant online lottery number and the plurality of game-play combinations can be provided to the player at the time of purchase of the instant online lottery ticket.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 2005Date of Patent: March 19, 2013Assignee: Integrated Group Assets, Inc.Inventors: Robert J. Wright, Michael D. Frick
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Patent number: 8398489Abstract: In various embodiments a display may allow a secondary player to select a game of an appropriate primary player.Type: GrantFiled: April 5, 2007Date of Patent: March 19, 2013Assignee: CFPH, LLCInventors: Howard W. Lutnick, Dean P. Alderucci, Geoffrey M. Gelman
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Publication number: 20130065676Abstract: Provided is a variable jackpot meter feature for progressive games (either single or multiple tiered), which may be embodied in a game, a method of conducting or providing the game, or a system or program product. The meter coordinates graphics to the increasing value of the progressive jackpots. At its reset value, the progressive meter may be displayed in its least exciting graphical state indicating low “heat.” As the progressive meter value grows, the associated graphics would increase to indicate the amount has grown. By the time the progressive meter's value has reached or exceeded the progressive's expected value, the graphics may be in their most excited/active/hottest state. This state reinforces to the player that the progressive is a high value and it is a good time to try to win the prize.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 13, 2011Publication date: March 14, 2013Applicant: Multimedia Games, Inc.Inventors: Clint A. Owen, Brian A. Watkins
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Publication number: 20130065677Abstract: A gaming system which includes a plurality of progressive awards in an MLP configuration. In a triggered bonus event, a player begins at the lowest progressive award level of the MLP and attempts to reach a higher progressive award level based on their decisions in the bonus event. If as a result of their play in the bonus event, a player is provided a progressive award other than the lowest level progressive award, one or more of the remaining lower level progressive awards (i.e., a progressive award associated with a lower level of the MLP than the provided progressive award) are shifted to account for the provided progressive award. The lowest level progressive award (which is temporality left vacant by the shifting of the remaining progressive awards) is reset to a set value, thus providing that the progressive award hierarchy is preserved regardless of which progressive award is provided to the player.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 6, 2012Publication date: March 14, 2013Applicant: IGTInventor: IGT
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Patent number: 8393958Abstract: In one embodiment, the gaming system and method disclosed herein maintains a plurality of different bonus event average expected payouts which are ranked. In one embodiment, if a bonus event triggering condition occurs, the gaming system determines one of the plurality of different bonus event average expected payouts to utilize for the triggered bonus event. In one such embodiment, the determined bonus event average expected payout is based on a player's current wager and a quantity of accumulated bonus event points or units. In this embodiment, the gaming system enables players to accumulate bonus event points based on one or more aspects of a player's previous gaming experiences during a designated period of time. The gaming system then displays a bonus event to the player and determines a bonus event award, wherein the determined bonus event award is in accordance with the determined bonus event average expected payout.Type: GrantFiled: March 27, 2012Date of Patent: March 12, 2013Assignee: IGTInventor: Alexander Casey Naglestad Cohen
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Patent number: 8388438Abstract: A gaming system for conducting a wagering game includes a game display configured to display an array of symbols indicating a randomly selected outcome of the wagering game in response to receiving a wager from a player, an input device adapted to receive inputs from a player and to output a signal to a controller corresponding to the player inputs and a controller configured to conduct a wagering game and a game feature associated with the wagering game. The controller is further configured to enable play of the wagering game responsive to an input of a first wager and to enable the game feature responsive to an input of a second wager further to the first wager. The game feature provides an opportunity for the player to receive, further to a winning outcome in the wagering game, a first positive feature in the game feature, and provides an opportunity for the player to receive, further to a losing outcome in the wagering game, a second positive feature in the game feature.Type: GrantFiled: November 11, 2009Date of Patent: March 5, 2013Assignee: WMS Gaming Inc.Inventors: Allon G. Englman, Daniel P. Louie, Michael W. Mastropietro
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Patent number: 8388439Abstract: In a gaming system, a part of a bet is accumulated in a progressive bonus counter in a case of executing a slot game in each of slot machines. Then, in a case where an accumulated count value of the progressive bonus counter has reached a predetermined value, an event game which the plurality of slot machines participate in is executed, and a progressive bonus corresponding to a part or entirety of the accumulated count value is provided to a player who has won the event game. Moreover, in a case where the accumulated count value of the progressive bonus counter has reached the predetermined value when the slot game is being executed only in one slot machine, a mystery bonus is generated. Accordingly, a profit can be returned to players who execute the slot game.Type: GrantFiled: March 13, 2009Date of Patent: March 5, 2013Assignee: Universal Entertainment CorporationInventor: Yoichi Kato
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Publication number: 20130053118Abstract: An article of manufacture includes a computer readable medium and computer-executable instructions carried on the computer readable medium. The instructions are readable by a processor. The instructions, when read and executed, cause the processor to present a game of skill including at least one goal associated with a portion of the game, accept a wager for a randomized prize, conduct a randomized selection process to determine the randomized prize, provide interactive control of the game of skill to a user in response to the wager, and determine whether the goals has been successfully accomplished by the user.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 31, 2011Publication date: February 28, 2013Applicant: MULTIMEDIA GAMES, INC.Inventors: Darren Michael Schueller, Rodney Lynn Willyard, James Michael Dominello
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Publication number: 20130053135Abstract: Various embodiments are directed to a decentralized progressive gaming system. The system includes a single, repeatable entity to calculate and track one or more progressive systems and their jackpots across a bank of gaming machines, an entire casino, or small or large wide area progressives offered over one or more casinos. The system provides efficient management and tracking of progressive jackpots and payouts.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 23, 2011Publication date: February 28, 2013Applicant: Bally Gaming, Inc.Inventor: Marcus King
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Patent number: 8382586Abstract: A system and method is disclosed for a multi-site casino or resort wide promotional winners selection. The system selects a winner based on playing with a card at a table game or slot machine, or just being at an active slot machine, opened table game, or other activity within a resort.Type: GrantFiled: April 30, 2008Date of Patent: February 26, 2013Assignee: Bally Gaming, Inc.Inventors: Bryan M. Kelly, Patricia A. McMahan, Frank J. Silvestro, Wayne W. Walkwitz, Paul C. McLaughlin, Ryan Randazzo
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Patent number: 8382590Abstract: The methods and systems described herein may involve determining at least one lifeotype of at least one individual, analyzing the at least one lifeotype, and delivering content to at least one individual based on the analysis. The methods and systems described herein may involve providing a game, determining at least one lifeotype of at least one player of the game, analyzing the at least one lifeotype, and affecting the game play based on the analysis. The methods and systems described herein may involve providing an interactive space, determining at least one lifeotype of at least one individual in the space, analyzing the at least one lifeotype, and modifying at least one attribute of the space based on the analysis.Type: GrantFiled: February 19, 2008Date of Patent: February 26, 2013Assignee: BodyMedia, Inc.Inventors: John M. Stivoric, Eric Teller, David Andre, John A. Monocello
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Publication number: 20130045788Abstract: A method and game machine are disclosed for operating a game with a primary and embedded game. An embedded game is disclosed as a bonus game with one embodiment animating miniature reels inside the primary game symbol. Each embedded slot game may have its own progressive, or may be tied into the progress associated with the primary game. Each embedded slot game will have its own paytable, and may be a miniature version of a well-recognized full-sized slot machine game.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 13, 2012Publication date: February 21, 2013Applicant: BALLY GAMING, INC.Inventor: Loren Nelson
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Patent number: 8376831Abstract: A gaming machine includes main and secondary displays. The secondary display is disposed apart from the primary display and is used for presenting primary, secondary, or even tertiary information. The main display is controlled electronically by a gaming machine controller, which main display presents the results of a play on the gaming machine. In the case of a slot machine, the main display may be the glass display through which the spinning reels of a game play are viewed. In a video poker gaming machine, the main display is usually a cathode ray tube (“CRT”) which displays a video game image to the player and other information directly associated with the game play. The secondary display may be provided at various locations on the gaming machine such as in a top glass portion of the gaming machine or a belly glass portion of the gaming machine, which belly glass portion is located below a main display portion of the gaming machine.Type: GrantFiled: June 29, 2009Date of Patent: February 19, 2013Assignee: IGTInventors: Joseph R. Hedrick, Robert A. Luciano, Jr., Jean Pierre Legras, Chauncey W. Griswold, Don C. Stephan
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Patent number: 8376847Abstract: A method and game machine are disclosed for operating a game with a primary and embedded game. An embedded game is disclosed as a bonus game with one embodiment animating miniature reels inside the primary game symbol. Each embedded slot game may have its own progressive, or may be tied into the progress associated with the primary game. Each embedded slot game will have its own paytable, and may be a miniature version of a well-recognized full-sized slot machine game.Type: GrantFiled: February 13, 2012Date of Patent: February 19, 2013Assignee: Bally Gaming, Inc.Inventor: Loren Nelson
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Patent number: 8376841Abstract: A gaming system and a method of operating a bonus prize awarding system, the system comprising a plurality of electronic gaming console having a console cabinet 10 including a prize display 12, a coin entry slot 13, a pay out tray 14 and internally mounted game control processor circuits. A video game is provided for play on the console in which images of 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, and bonus prizes are increased progressively upon the occurrence of predetermined game events within the game or external to the game.Type: GrantFiled: August 22, 2007Date of Patent: February 19, 2013Assignee: Aristocrat Technologies Australia Pty LtdInventors: John Boesen, Natalie Bryant
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Patent number: 8376836Abstract: A gaming system including a central server linked to a plurality of gaming machines. The gaming system includes a bonus event unit based system to provide one or more awards to one or more players. Such bonus event units are accumulated by a player based on one or more events associated with the player's gaming experience. The bonus event units utilized in the gaming system are selectively redeemed by the player in exchange for one or more opportunities to win an award.Type: GrantFiled: November 7, 2008Date of Patent: February 19, 2013Assignee: IGTInventors: Anthony J. Baerlocher, Glen Keith Russell
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Publication number: 20130040730Abstract: A wagering game system and its operations are described herein. In embodiments, the operations can include detecting a user request to initiate a group wagering game from a host wagering game player account, via a local-area networking device at a non-casino geographic location and providing group wagering game content to the local-area networking device in response to the request. The operations can further include detecting wagering activity from members of a group at the geographic location, providing wagering game outcome information related to the wagering activity, and assigning a portion of the wagering activity to the host wagering game player account.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 26, 2011Publication date: February 14, 2013Applicant: WMS GAMING, INC.Inventors: Brian J. Barclay, Andrew C. Guinn, Richard B. Robbins
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Patent number: 8371931Abstract: A gaming system includes a controller linked to a plurality of gaming devices. The central server tracks: (i) a quantity of gaming devices being actively played by players, or (ii) a quantity of players actively playing at the gaming devices. The controller determines the players' eligibility for different awards based on the tracked quantity. When the controller tracks a first quantity, the controller provides the active players with an opportunity to win a first award. When the central server tracks a second quantity, the central server provides the active players with an opportunity to win a second award. As the tracked quantity changes, the controller determines or modifies the number of awards available to the players actively playing at the gaming devices.Type: GrantFiled: December 12, 2011Date of Patent: February 12, 2013Assignee: IGTInventors: Rogelio S. Decasa, Kelsy J. Grace, Anthony J. Baerlocher
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Patent number: 8371934Abstract: A self configuring progressive jackpot award system includes a plurality of electronic gaming machines (EGMs). The plurality of EGMs respectively include a plurality of EGM configuration options, and operate in accordance with the EGM configuration options. A subset of the plurality of EGM configuration options relates to participating in a progressive jackpot award game. A progressive controller is coupled to the plurality of EGMs and controls the operation of a progressive jackpot award game. The progressive controller includes a plurality of progressive jackpot award game configuration options. A subset of these progressive jackpot award game configuration options correspond to the subset of EGM configuration options related to participating in the progressive jackpot award game. The progressive controller automatically sends data representing this subset of progressive jackpot award game configuration options to the plurality of EGMs.Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 2010Date of Patent: February 12, 2013Assignee: Bally Gaming, Inc.Inventor: Joshua D. Larsen
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Patent number: 8371935Abstract: A method and gaming machine are disclosed for operating a game with a primary and embedded game. An embedded game is disclosed as a bonus game with one embodiment animating miniature reels inside the primary game symbol. Each embedded slot game may have its own progressive, or may be tied into the progress associated with the primary game. Each embedded slot game will have its own paytable, and may be a miniature version of a well-recognized full-sized slot game. Also disclosed are a wagering game, a gaming machine and a networked gaming system and associated methods including a multiple-progressive wheel game. A player may win all of a set of wheel-based progressive award during play of a single game.Type: GrantFiled: August 7, 2012Date of Patent: February 12, 2013Assignee: Bally Gaming, Inc.Inventors: John Vallejo, Michael Mitchell, Loren T. Nelson
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Publication number: 20130035156Abstract: A method of awarding a bonus for a play session of a user of an amusement device is disclosed. The amusement device has a display, a memory and a controller. The method includes receiving, by the amusement device, an input of currency from the user. A game of chance sequence for determining the bonus is automatically initiated in response to receiving the input of currency. The game of chance sequence and the determined bonus are displayed and the bonus is applied to the play session.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 6, 2012Publication date: February 7, 2013Applicant: AMI ENTERTAINMENT NETWORK, INC.Inventor: Jeffrey D. KARN
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Patent number: 8366543Abstract: Methods and apparatus for a distributed bonus scheme using simulated scatter reactions are disclosed. An example method of operating a gaming device in a gaming system includes receiving a trigger that initiates a first bonus decision in a first gaming device. Further, the example method includes calculating, using a programmed processor, an accumulated value that defines a range. Further, the example method includes generating a random number. Further, the example method includes, when the random number falls within the range, granting a bonus to the first gaming device. Further, the example method includes determining whether the first bonus decision is to initiate a second bonus decision in a second gaming device of the gaming system.Type: GrantFiled: February 10, 2011Date of Patent: February 5, 2013Assignee: Aristocrat Technologies Australia Pty., Ltd.Inventor: Gary Frerking
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Publication number: 20130029745Abstract: A system and method for providing a secondary gaming feature across affiliated properties, which includes enabling secondary game elements based upon based upon the wagering activity of the player at a base game. When the elements have been enabled a winning or losing outcome for the secondary game may be derived. In certain embodiments the player may select from one or more secondary games. The player may wager upon the secondary game using promotional funds. The secondary game may be a progressive game whose prize is funded based upon player wagering activity.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 14, 2011Publication date: January 31, 2013Inventors: Bryan M. Kelly, Robert W. Crowder, JR., Dennis W. Lockard, Robert A. Luciano, JR., Jeffrey C. Tallcott
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Patent number: 8360851Abstract: A gaming terminal plays a wagering game having a plurality of reels with symbols including progressive-game symbols. The wagering game provides access to a progressive game having progressive game awards indicated by the progressive-game symbols. The gaming terminal comprises a wager input device, a display, and at least one controller. The wager input device receives a wager input for playing the wagering game. The display is for displaying the plurality of reels with the progressive-game symbols. Each of the progressive-game symbols is displayed with an associated individual value. The controller is coupled to the display and operative to cause the display to display the incrementing of the individual values of the progressive-game symbols based on game play activity. The controller is also operative to provide a progressive game award based on the individual values of the progressive-game symbols on the plurality of reels that triggered the progressive game award.Type: GrantFiled: October 14, 2011Date of Patent: January 29, 2013Assignee: WMS Gaming Inc.Inventors: Dion K. Aoki, Andrew Guinn
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Patent number: 8360868Abstract: A method for playing a game tournament having a progressive prize of an initial value, a minimal required number of players, at least one qualifying criteria, and a predetermined number of consecutive results complying with the at least one qualifying criteria required in order to win the progressive prize or part thereof, said method comprising: the required number of players providing payment including an ante to be added to the progressive prize; playing at least one tournament of the game until an at least one player achieves an at least one qualifying criteria; the at least one player winning the progressive prize or part thereof if he or she met the at least one qualifying criteria for at least the predetermined number of consecutive tournaments.Type: GrantFiled: August 16, 2006Date of Patent: January 29, 2013Assignee: Playtech Software LimitedInventor: Omer Shvili
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Patent number: 8360869Abstract: A progressive processing engine is disclosed for a multi-site casino or resort wide promotional winners selection. The system selects a winner based on playing with a card at a table game or slot machine, or just being at an active slot machine, opened table game, or other activity within a resort.Type: GrantFiled: April 30, 2008Date of Patent: January 29, 2013Assignee: Bally Gaming, Inc.Inventors: Bryan M. Kelly, Patricia A. McMahan, Frank J. Silvestro, Wayne W. Walkwitz, Paul C. McLaughlin, Ryan Randazzo
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Patent number: 8357038Abstract: A gaming system (10) includes gaming machine groups (GR 1-GR 16) arranged to receive input data and to generate output progressive jackpot data relating to two or more progressive jackpots. A central database (26) stores the input data relating to the progressive jackpots. A monitoring computer (40) includes a local database (46). The computer (40) obtains and temporarily stores the progressive jackpot output data.Type: GrantFiled: August 19, 2010Date of Patent: January 22, 2013Assignee: Aristocrat Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Michael H. D'Amico, Tara L. Young, Keith A. Wood, Lattamore D. Osburn
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Patent number: 8353762Abstract: A gaming system, gaming device, and gaming method including a symbol generator, where a number of awards available to the player in a single activation of the symbol generator and/or which awards are available to a player in a single activation of the symbol generator are based on an occurrence of one or more triggering events.Type: GrantFiled: September 29, 2009Date of Patent: January 15, 2013Assignee: IGTInventors: Paulina Rodgers, Christmas C. Parker, Benjamin C. Hoffman, Benjamin M. Fuller
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Patent number: 8353761Abstract: A progressive game is implemented on a gaming system, wherein the gaming system includes one or more gaming machines connected to a game server, and wherein the progressive game has a progressive prize value that increases according to a progressive prize growth rate. The progressive game includes a selectable targeted progressive prize value, a selectable targeted progressive prize time, and one or more enticement factors. The progressive prize growth rate is calculated using the selectable targeted progressive prize value, the selectable targeted progressive prize time, and the one or more enticement factors. Additionally, a random number generation algorithm tests to determine if there is a progressive prize win at each predetermined time period. The selectable targeted progressive prize time is used to calculate the predetermined time period for testing for a progressive prize win.Type: GrantFiled: August 19, 2005Date of Patent: January 15, 2013Assignee: Bally Gaming, Inc.Inventors: Bryan M. Kelly, Dennis W. Lockard, Frank J. Silvestro, Thomas P. Doyle, Ronald C. Gallaway
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Patent number: 8348755Abstract: A system and method is disclosed for a multi-site casino or resort wide promotional winners selection. The system selects a winner based on playing with a card at a table game or slot machine, or just being at an active slot machine, opened table game, or other activity within a resort.Type: GrantFiled: April 30, 2008Date of Patent: January 8, 2013Assignee: Bally Gaming, Inc.Inventors: Bryan M. Kelly, Patricia A. McMahan, Frank J. Silvestro, Wayne W. Walkwitz, Paul C. McLaughlin, Ryan Randazzo
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Patent number: 8342958Abstract: The gaming system and method disclosed herein provides a plurality of players with an opportunity to win a plurality of progressive awards maintained by the gaming system. The gaming system accumulates a quantity of progressive event points for each player playing at one of the gaming machines in the gaming system. In one embodiment, the gaming system uses an accumulated quantity of progressive event points for a designated player to determine which one or more of the progressive awards the designated player wins. In another embodiment, the gaming system uses an accumulated quantity of progressive event points to determine the designated player's probability of winning one or more of the progressive awards. Accordingly, the gaming system provides a point-based system in which either a progressive award to win or a probability of winning a progressive award is determined based on the quantities of progressive event points accumulated by the players.Type: GrantFiled: December 16, 2011Date of Patent: January 1, 2013Assignee: IGTInventors: Ryan W. Cuddy, Mohammed A. Saffari, Bryan D. Wolf
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Patent number: 8342957Abstract: A convertible in-revenue and out-of-revenue gaming system is disclosed that includes a server connected to automatically convert operating modes and control in-revenue and out-of-revenue operation of one or more banks of gaming machines wherein each of the gaming machines includes a video camera connected to capture live player video feed during competition or tournament operating mode, and each of the gaming machines is operable to display a tournament game presentation simultaneously with a player dashboard. The player dashboard includes a display of the live player video, the player position, the player score, and remaining time in the competition or tournament.Type: GrantFiled: September 14, 2011Date of Patent: January 1, 2013Assignee: Multimedia Games, Inc.Inventors: John J. Carpenter, Keith Riggs, Allison Pope, Michael D. Conway, Clint Owen, Bradley W. Johnson, JP Cody
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Patent number: 8342956Abstract: The present invention is a method and a gaming system for operating a progressive game that is accessible at a plurality of gaming machines. The progressive game has a plurality of progressive jackpots. The method and system involve collecting wager-input data at the plurality of gaming machines that corresponds to wager inputs made at the plurality of gaming machines, and crediting a portion of the wager inputs to a first group of the plurality of progressive jackpots in accordance with a first distribution set. In response to the wager-input data meeting a predetermined criteria, the method and system include crediting a portion of subsequent wager inputs to a second group of the plurality of progressive jackpots in accordance with a second distribution set. The first group directs funds to at least one progressive jackpot in an amount that is different from the second group.Type: GrantFiled: May 30, 2006Date of Patent: January 1, 2013Assignee: WMS Gaming Inc.Inventor: Peter R. Anderson
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Wagering Game Providing A Progressive Award Having An Actual Value Determined By Follow-Up Game Play
Publication number: 20120329552Abstract: A gaming system includes an input device for receiving wagers to lay a wagering game in which the player is eligible to win first and second progressive award levels. At least one display device is configured to display a monetary value for the first progressive award level and a number of free spins for the second progressive award level. The gaming system includes two sets of reels, each set being associated with a respective mathematical model. A controller increments the monetary value and the number of free spins based on plays of the wagering game, and awards current values of the monetary value and the number of free spins in response to respective triggering events.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 29, 2012Publication date: December 27, 2012Applicant: WMS Gaming IncInventors: Christopher J. Caspers, Peter R. Hopkins -
Patent number: 8337298Abstract: A gaming system including a central server linked to a plurality of gaming machines. The gaming system includes a plurality of different types of progressive awards adapted to be provided to one or more players of the gaming machines in the gaming system. In one embodiment, one or more progressive awards are each associated with a progressive hit value, wherein when each progressive award increments to its respective progressive hit value, a triggering event occurs and such progressive award is provided to a player. In one embodiment, one or more progressive awards are each associated with a secondary game, wherein if the secondary game is triggered, a player is provided either a fixed award or one of the progressive awards associated with the secondary game based on a play of the secondary game.Type: GrantFiled: May 20, 2010Date of Patent: December 25, 2012Assignee: IGTInventor: Anthony J. Baerlocher
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Patent number: 8337285Abstract: A casino style card game, played in accordance with the standard rules of Blackjack, also known as “21,” and including an auxiliary component allowing additional wagering on the outcome of the dealer's hand for each participating player. Participating players are able to wager on the dealer having a non-breaking hand (i.e., a hand having a value less than 21 in accordance with the rules of Blackjack) containing two, three, four, five, six, or seven cards. Wagers may also be made on the dealer having an even or odd count, or an all read or all black hand. A return is paid on wagers in the auxiliary game only if the dealer hand does not “bust” (i.e, exceed a value of 21). The game is also playable in electronic or other automated versions using, for example, terminals and networks, or slot machines.Type: GrantFiled: July 26, 2010Date of Patent: December 25, 2012Assignee: Ten Stix Gaming, Inc.Inventor: Tony A. Cranford
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Patent number: 8337311Abstract: A base game may be a conventional video reel-type game. During play of the base game, at least a first progressive jackpot is accumulated by a first percentage of the wagers. A community Bingo game is concurrently initiated for all eligible players (players betting above the minimum bet) when an eligible player achieves a special symbol combination in the base game. The number of virtual Bingo cards dealt to each eligible player is based on the player's average bet. A central controller then random selects Bingo numbers, one at a time, and the first player to fill in a Bingo card wins the bonus game and an award. Only the player that triggered the bonus game is eligible for the first progressive jackpot. At various levels of the game, the players are motivated to bet above the minimum bet to be eligible for the bonus game and increase the player's chances of winning the bonus game.Type: GrantFiled: November 14, 2008Date of Patent: December 25, 2012Assignee: Spielo International Canada ULCInventors: William George Amos, Sean Michael Miller
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Publication number: 20120322537Abstract: Apparatus, systems, and methods may operate to receive operational power from a primary power supply at a processor housed within a wagering game machine, where the processor is operable to present a wagering game. Further activities may include determining that the wagering game machine is currently in a hibernation state, authenticating at least one hibernation file, and resuming operation of the wagering game machine to a base operation state defined by the at least one hibernation file. Additional apparatus, systems, and methods are disclosed.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 15, 2012Publication date: December 20, 2012Inventors: Ryan Antkowiak, Jesse Garvey, Damon E. Gura, Vernon W. Hamlin, Budyanto Himawan, Mahesh Lakshmanaperumal, Laurie Lasseter, Robert A. McPeak, Jorge Luis Shimabukuro, Craig J. Sylla, Anussorn Andy Veradej, Jun Wang
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Publication number: 20120322529Abstract: A method of operating an enhanced game of roulette is provided. The method includes receiving one or more selections and player-funded wagers on possible roulette game outcomes from a player. An actual roulette game outcome is then determined. The determined outcome then determines whether the player is to be awarded any winnings and, if so, any determined winnings are awarded to the player. The method further includes determining if a trigger event has occurred. If a trigger event has occurred, then one or more subsequent games of roulette are provided to the player. Each subsequent game does not require any player-funded wagers from the player. In each subsequent game, a roulette game outcome is determined for the subsequent game. A determination is made as to whether the player is to be awarded any bonus award based upon the roulette game outcome for the subsequent game. A bonus award is determined and, if any bonus award is determined to be awarded, then the bonus award is awarded to the player.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 2, 2011Publication date: December 20, 2012Applicant: SHUFFLE MASTER AUSTRALASIA PTY LIMITEDInventor: Ross M. Gilbertson
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Publication number: 20120322547Abstract: Certain embodiments provide a system and method for automatic progressive link management and dispersal. Certain embodiments of a progressive gaming system include a first progressive link, wherein the first progressive link includes a first progressive amount. The system also includes a second progressive link, wherein the second progressive link includes a second progressive amount. The system further includes a progressive manager capable of automatically dispersing to the second progressive amount a portion of the first progressive amount greater than a base amount upon removal of the first progressive link. In an embodiment, the progressive manager calculates the portion of the first progressive amount that is greater than the base amount. In an embodiment, the first and second progressive links are active in multiple gaming environments. The progressive manager may schedule automatic dispersal of the portion of the first progressive amount to a selected progressive amount at a selected time.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 24, 2012Publication date: December 20, 2012Inventor: Scott Dickerson
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Patent number: 8333656Abstract: A gaming system (1) comprising an electronic gaining machine (5) having an associated players station interface device (4) configured to monitor the turnover of the electronic gaming machine (5) and having an interface device display (7) configured to display an interface device electronic game such that a predetermined proportion of the electronic gaming machine turnover is pulled into an interface device electronic game jackpot controlled by a control server (2) in communication with the player station interface device (4) wherein an electronic trigger is sent from the control server (2) to the player station interface device (4) to commence an interface device game and wherein the control server (2) is configured to provide a payout for a user winning the interface device game.Type: GrantFiled: August 4, 2009Date of Patent: December 18, 2012Assignee: Lions Share (Aust) Pty LtdInventor: Kenneth L. Vaughan
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Patent number: 8333657Abstract: The gaming system disclosed herein changes the focal point of a display device at different points in time to assist the player in focusing on different simultaneously or concurrently played games at different points in time. Specifically, the gaming system displays a plurality of simultaneously or concurrently played games on a display device. In response to a designated event occurring in association with a specific one of the plurality of simultaneously or concurrently played games, the gaming system changes the focal point of the display device to draw the player's focus or attention to that specific one of the simultaneously or concurrently played games. Put differently, the gaming system dynamically allocates and/or indicates different portions of a display device to different simultaneously or concurrently played games at different points in time to account for different events occurring in such simultaneously or concurrently played games.Type: GrantFiled: September 26, 2011Date of Patent: December 18, 2012Assignee: IGTInventors: Dwayne R. Nelson, Jonathan Quitt, Warner Cockerille, Christopher D. Carlisle, Andrew Kertesz, Suzanne O'Rourke