WMS Gaming Inc. Patent applications |
Patent application number | Title | Published |
20160055719 | Gaming Machine Having A Community Game With Side Wagering - According to one embodiment of the present invention, a system and method for conducting a wagering game on a plurality of gaming machines is disclosed. The method comprises the act of triggering a community event while conducting the wagering game on the plurality of gaming machines. Two or more gaming machines are selected to participate in the community event. The community event is selected from a plurality of independent community events. The gaming system comprises a plurality of gaming machines, at least one community display, and at least one controller. The controller is operative to select the two or more gaming machines to participate in the community event, and select the community event from the plurality of independent community events to display on the at least one community display. | 02-25-2016 |
20160027140 | Gaming machine having a community game with side wagering - According to one embodiment of the present invention, a system and method for conducting a wagering game on a plurality of gaming machines is disclosed. The method comprises the act of triggering a community event while conducting the wagering game on the plurality of gaming machines. Two or more gaming machines are selected to participate in the community event. The community event is selected from a plurality of independent community events. The gaming system comprises a plurality of gaming machines, at least one community display, and at least one controller. The controller is operative to select the two or more gaming machines to participate in the community event, and select the community event from the plurality of independent community events to display on the at least one community display. | 01-28-2016 |
20150348361 | CONTROLLING MECHANICAL OUTCOME INDICATORS OF GAMING MACHINES - The present invention describes a system having a gaming machine using game circuitry logic and a primary controller to perform a primary wagering game. The system may further include a secondary controller using mechanical components of the gaming machine to perform secondary wagering games. The secondary controller is configured to actuate and control mechanical components of the gaming machine system controlled by the primary controller. The secondary controller further combines output of the primary and secondary wagering games to generate a unified graphical user interface displayed on a display device of the gaming machine. The secondary controller also actively translates input and output coordinate data between each of the primary and secondary controller graphical user interfaces and the unified graphical user interface. | 12-03-2015 |
20150294529 | System and Method for Controlling Reel Motion in a Spinning Reel Gaming Machine - A method for conducting a wagering game includes the act of providing a set of motion parameters to a mechanical reel controller of a wagering game machine, the set of motion parameters including one or more start profiles, a plurality of motion profiles, and one or more stop profiles. The method also includes the act of determining, using one or more processors, a set of motion parameters for each of the mechanical reels that will collectively place the mechanical reels in sync prior to execution of the stop profile(s) so that each of the plurality of mechanical reels is positioned relative to one another, during rotation, to display a determined outcome of the wagering game. The method includes the acts of driving each reel in accord with a respective start profile(s), driving each reel in accord with respective motion profile(s) and stopping each reel in accord with respective stop profile(s) at a point in time after the plurality of mechanical reels are in sync. | 10-15-2015 |
20150287273 | POWER CYCLING OF GAMING MACHINE - The present invention relates to enabling an operating system software to selectively power cycle one or more components of a wagering gaming system comprising a central processing unit board having one or more central processing units, and one or more central processing unit components. The invention uses a memory comprising a dedicated power cycle control register, a power controller, and digital logic configured to initiate a power cycle of the one or more components of the wagering gaming machine when the operating system writes a predetermined value to the power cycle control register. Upon recognizing the predetermined value to a dedicated power cycle control register used solely for power cycling procedures, digital logic is initiated to terminate voltage supplied to the one or more components of the wagering gaming machine and restore power to the one or more components of the wagering gaming machine, effectively “cold booting” the selected one or more components of the wagering gaming machine main system board(s) without disrupting voltage supplied to the entirety of other components, including peripheral devices of the wagering gaming system. | 10-08-2015 |
20150276844 | CONTROLLING GAMING MACHINE POWER-UP - A gaming system includes circuitry and associated methodology for detection of continuity along, one or more sensing paths for determination of the presence and proper seating of one or more component boards to each other and a backplane, having an arbitrary number of couplings. The invention controls voltage to one or more components of the gaming system, enabling selective activation of various components, on one or more of the connected boards, based on the proper seating of component boards to each other and a backplane. The invention implements dynamic configuration of sensing paths (defined by signal paths and signal traversal) and subsequent continuity detection through interfacing connector/port pairs, in combination with specifically placed electronic components and local ground connections along the sensing paths, to control powering selective system components based upon a detection of the presence and proper seating of multiple component boards to each other and a backplane. | 10-01-2015 |
20150161852 | WAGERING GAME WITH PLAYER-CONTRIBUTED REELS - In a gaming system, a first player and one or more second player(s) contribute respective player reels. At least one game outcome is determined from an array of symbols randomly generated from the combination of the player reels. The at least one game outcome is shared by all players and used to determine awards for all players. The first player may subsequently join one or more third player(s) to determine new game outcomes from a new combination of player reels. | 06-11-2015 |
20150133210 | Game Outcome Validator - A simulator reproduces a game running on an electronic gaming machine using a model that implements the game rules and logic of the game. The electronic gaming machine stops at predetermined breakpoints during execution of a game session and sends data to the simulator at each breakpoint and at a conclusion of the game session. The data may include random number values, other game variables, and the result of the game session. The simulator uses the data to independently reproduce the game session. Output from the simulator is used to verify the state of internal variables and/or the result received from the electronic gaming machine. | 05-14-2015 |
20150087411 | Wagering Game With Variable Award Associated With Play Counter - A computer-implemented method includes receiving an input indicative of a wager to play a wagering game. The method also includes displaying a play counter, a win condition, and an award for achieving the win condition in the wagering game. The play counter indicates a possible number of plays of the wagering game for which the award can be won by achieving the win condition. The method further includes, for each play of the wagering game, using a processor(s) to determine an outcome of the wagering game, advance the play counter in the absence of a reset condition, and provide the award if the win condition occurs in the wagering game. The method still further includes, in response to the reset condition, using a processor(s) to reset the play counter, modify the win condition, and modify the award for achieving the modified win condition in the wagering game. | 03-26-2015 |
20150038218 | TRACKING AND RESPONDING TO WAGERING ACCOUNT ACTIVITY - A method includes receiving a communication regarding account activity for a player account of a wagering game player. The player account is within a group of player accounts for the wagering game player, wherein the group of player accounts includes at least one of a player account for account-based wagering at a wagering game establishment, a player account for player tracking of player activity at the wagering game establishment, and a player account for online wagering. The method includes executing a rules-based response, after receiving the communication regarding account activity. Executing the rules-based response can comprise at least one of: transmitting a player notification to the wagering game player about the account activity, to at least one of the player accounts and transmitting an account lockdown communication instructing an account server to lockdown at least one of the player accounts. | 02-05-2015 |
20140364199 | DEVICE-TO-DEVICE TRANSFER OF WAGERING GAME OBJECTS - A method for transferring a wagering game object, monetary value, and/or non-monetary value between a mobile device and a second device is described herein. In some embodiments, the method can include presenting, on a mobile device, a graphical user interface configured to receive user input. The method can further include receiving, via the graphical user interface, a gesture that initiates transfer of one or more of a wagering game object, monetary value, and non-monetary value between the mobile device and a second device. The method can further include transmitting, via a network in response to the gesture, one or more of the wagering game object, the monetary value, and the non-monetary value between the mobile device and the second device. | 12-11-2014 |
20140357364 | FLEXIBLE GAMING DISPLAYS AND GAMING TERMINALS WITH A FLEXIBLE DISPLAY DEVICE - Gaming devices, gaming systems, methods of conducting wagering games, and reconfigurable gaming display assemblies are disclosed. A gaming machine for conducting a wagering game is presented. The gaming machine includes an input device for receiving an indication of a wager to play the wagering game. The gaming machine also includes a cabinet and a display device with a flexible video-display screen. The flexible video-display screen is operable to display aspects of the wagering game. A rigid support assembly is attached to the flexible video-display screen. The rigid support assembly includes one or more support brackets which movably mount the flexible video-display screen to the cabinet. The one or more support brackets are configured to transition towards the rear of the cabinet and thereby physically change the flexible video-display screen from a generally flat configuration to a generally curved configuration. | 12-04-2014 |
20140349726 | PLAYER-INDUCED EFFECTS ON E-TABLE PLAYFIELD - A method for presenting the appearance of altered game outcome is described herein. In some embodiments, the operations can include presenting, by an electronic wagering game table, a wagering game including a game piece. The operations can also include determining a result for the wagering game. The operations can also include receiving first player input to move the game piece to reveal the result. The operations can also include presenting, on a display device, movement of the game piece. The operations can also include receiving, by the electronic wagering game table, second player input to alter the movement of the game piece, wherein alteration of the movement of the game piece appears to modify the result for the wagering game. The operations can also include presenting, in response to the second player input, altered movement of the game piece and the result for the wagering game. | 11-27-2014 |
20140342833 | SOCIAL GAMING WEBSITE AND RELATED IN-ADVERTISEMENT GAMING - A method for persistent casino-style gameplay is described herein. In some embodiments, the operations can include presenting, a gaming session to a user, wherein the gaming session includes casino-style games and is associated with a user profile. The operations can also include recording information about the casino-style games during the gaming session. The operations can also include detecting a request for an in-advertisement casino-style game, wherein the in-advertisement casino-style game will appear on a webpage. The operations can also include transmitting for presentation on the webpage as part of the in-advertisement casino-style game, first content configured to receive information identifying the user. The operations can also include receiving the information identifying the user profile. The operations can also include transmitting for presentation on the webpage as part of the in-advertisement casino-style game, second content including data to resume play of the gaming session via the in-advertisement casino-style game. | 11-20-2014 |
20140335943 | INCORPORATING A SECONDARY GAME WITH A LOYALTY PROGRAM - A wagering game system and its operations are described herein. In some embodiments, the operations can include providing a secondary game for presentation. A game objective for the secondary game is associated with a set of achievements attainable via wagering games available for play via a wagering game machine. The operations can further include detecting attainment of one of the set of achievements via one of the wagering games. The attainment of the one of the set of achievements causes completion of the game objective for the secondary game. The operations can further include awarding a prize associated with a customer loyalty program based on the completion of the game objective. | 11-13-2014 |
20140335933 | INCORPORATING TRANSIENT SYMBOLS INTO WAGERING GAMES - A wagering game system and its operations are described herein. In some embodiments, the operations can include providing a wagering game for presentation, wherein the wagering game includes a first symbol set used to indicate one or more wagering game outcomes before initiation of a secondary contest. The operations can further include initiating the secondary contest, wherein the secondary contest is separate from the wagering game, and providing a second symbol set for use during the secondary contest, wherein the second symbol set is configured to indicate a promotional award for the secondary contest. The operations can further include incorporating the second symbol set into the wagering game. The operations can further include ending the secondary contest, and removing the second symbol set from the wagering game after the secondary contest ends. | 11-13-2014 |
20140323206 | METHODS OF TRANSFERRING FUNDS IN A CASHLESS WAGERING SYSTEM - A method for depositing funds associated with a wagering game ticket in a player account via a mobile device is described herein. In some embodiments, the method can include receiving an image of a wagering game ticket, wherein a monetary value is associated with the wagering game ticket. The method can further include determining a player account, wherein the monetary value is to be deposited in the player account. The method can further include determining, based on the image, a ticket identifier associated with the wagering game ticket. The method can further include transmitting, to a ticketing server, the ticket identifier associated with the wagering game ticket. The method can further include receiving, from the ticketing server, an indication of the monetary value associated with the wagering game ticket. The method can further include depositing, in the player account, the monetary value associated with the wagering game ticket. | 10-30-2014 |
20140315619 | SYSTEMS, METHODS, AND DEVICES FOR OPERATING WAGERING GAME MACHINES WITH ENHANCED USER INTERFACES - Gaming devices, gaming systems, methods of conducting wagering games, and computer programs for operating wagering game machines are disclosed. A gaming machine for conducting a wagering game is disclosed. The gaming machine includes a first display device that is configured to display aspects of the wagering game. The first display device includes a touchscreen configured to receive user inputs. The gaming machine also includes a second display device that is configured to display a plurality of user-selectable elements. The second display device is further configured to display a selection mechanism in response to a first user input received from a user via the touchscreen of the first display device. The second display device is also configured, in response to a second user input received from the user via the touchscreen of the first display device, to display the selection mechanism selecting at least one of the displayed user-selectable elements. | 10-23-2014 |
20140302912 | Power Conservation In Wagering Game Machines - Systems and methods provide power management on a wagering game machine. Inrush power may be reduced by staggering application of power to various power supplies in a wagering game machine. A processor or timer may control the activation of power supplies. Further power management may be provided by placing wagering game machine peripherals in a power consumption mode appropriate to the activity or lack of activity on a wagering game machine. | 10-09-2014 |
20140302898 | WAGERING GAME HAVING A SKILL-COMPENSATION FEATURE - A gaming system and method includes receiving a wager input indicative of a wager to play a wagering game including a skill-based game. A skill-based input indicative of play of the skill-based game is received receive via at least one of the one or more input devices. A skill-level adjustment is applied to the skill-based game to decrease the skill-level needed to achieve an award outcome in the skill-based game. The skill-level adjustment includes compensating for the received skill-based input. An outcome of the skill-based game is determined. The outcome is based at least in part on the compensating for the received second input. In response to the outcome being an award outcome, an award is provided for the skill-based game. | 10-09-2014 |
20140295939 | Bonus Game For A Gaming Machine - A machine is operable in a basic mode and a bonus mode. The bonus game is entered upon the occurrence of a start-bonus game outcome in the basic mode. In the bonus game, a player may select from an array of windows, each associated with a bonus game outcome. Credits are awarded based upon which ones of the windows are selected. The bonus game may end upon selection of a window associated with an end-bonus outcome but otherwise continues, allowing the player to make further selections until encountering an end-bonus outcome. A bonus game resource obtained in the basic game may be exercised in the bonus game to affect the bonus game outcome. For example, where the occurrence of an end-bonus outcome would otherwise end the bonus game, a player having a bonus game resource may exercise the bonus game resource to continue playing the bonus game. | 10-02-2014 |
20140287821 | CONTROLLING INTERACTIVITY FOR GAMING AND SOCIAL-COMMUNICATION APPLICATIONS - A wagering game system and its operations are described herein. In embodiments, the operations can include determining a selection of a selectable object in a first area of a gaming display that is under control of a first application module associated with a wagering game session. The first application module can be for a social communication application or can provide social communication functionality. The operations can further include determining a selection purpose for the selection, determining transference instructions for an item representation of the selectable object, and transferring the item representation to a second area of the gaming display that is under control of a second application module. The second application module can be for a wagering game application or can provide wagering game functionality. The operations can further include performing a function associated with the second application module according to the selection purpose. | 09-25-2014 |
20140274374 | Gaming Machine Having Flexible Mount For Tower Light - A gaming machine includes a cabinet having a topbox frame attached thereto and facing a player position in front of the gaming machine, and one or more display devices within the cabinet and configured to display a wagering game. The gaming machine further includes a tower light for indicating a status condition, and a conduit for mounting the tower light to the topbox frame. The conduit has a fixed end attached to the topbox frame and an adjustable end attached to the tower light. The adjustable end is movable to different positions to provide a line of sight for viewing the tower light. | 09-18-2014 |
20140274348 | SYSTEMS, METHODS, AND DEVICES FOR PLAYING WAGERING GAMES WITH RANDOMIZED AWARD MULTIPLIERS BASED ON WAGER LEVEL - Gaming devices, gaming systems, methods of conducting wagering games, and computer programs for executing wagering games are disclosed. Computer-implemented methods of executing a wagering game are disclosed herein. For some implementations which utilize paylines in determining a winning outcome, the method incorporates a non-linear escalation of payline multipliers based on a player's wager level. The wager level determines which of a plurality of “multiplier pools” the player will be entered into for a particular play of the wagering game. A minimum multiplier for each pool is at least the standard payline multiplier (e.g., at wager level 2, the minimum multiplier is 2×), though at higher wager levels the minimum multiplier in the corresponding pool may be higher than the standard minimum payline multiplier (e.g., at wager level 4, the minimum multiplier is 5× instead of just 4×). | 09-18-2014 |
20140274308 | WAGERING GAME WITH DYNAMIC PRIZE OFFERING - A wagering game system and its operations are described herein. In some embodiments, the operations can include detecting a trigger for a bonus game associated with presentation of a wagering game. The operations can further include, in response to the trigger, providing, for presentation, an option to select either a prize or play of the bonus game. The operations can further include detecting a selection of either the prize or the play of the bonus game, and providing either the prize or the play of the bonus game based on the selection. | 09-18-2014 |
20140274305 | SMI FOR ELECTRONIC GAMING MACHINE SECURITY AND STABILITY - A system and method for providing security services to an electronic gaming machine (EGM) utilizes system management interrupts (SMIs) triggered by security events to invoke execution by the EGM processor of one or more SMI handlers configured to provide a security service. Security events include the opening of an access panel on the EGM, an AC power loss to the EGM, a request for security attestation, a request for a secure encryption key, and other events requiring a secure operation to be carried out. | 09-18-2014 |
20140274298 | WAGERING GAME WITH SIMULATED MECHANICAL REELS - A gaming machine for playing a wagering game includes a housing having a display region. A first image display device for simulating mechanical reels of a slot machine in the display region includes a curved surface that approximates the radius of curvature of a mechanical reel. The curved surface displays first video images that include a plurality of symbols indicating a randomly selected outcome of the wagering game. A second image display device displays second video images spatially separated from and overlaying the first video images within the display region. The second video images include indicia related to the wagering game. | 09-18-2014 |
20140274294 | Wagering Game With Upgradable Symbol Stacks - A gaming system includes one or more input devices, display devices, processors, and memory devices. At least one of the memory devices store instructions that cause the system to receive a wager and to display at least one array having a plurality of columns. An outcome is randomly selected, in response to the wager, in which a first column is stacked with a stack of symbols of a first rank and a second column is stacked with a stack of symbols of a second rank. The first rank is compared with the second rank to determine a high rank and a low rank according to a predetermined pay table. The stack of symbols of the low rank is upgraded to a stack of symbols of the high rank. | 09-18-2014 |
20140274290 | WAGERING GAME WITH POSITIONAL FEEDBACK FOR MECHANICAL REELS - A method of conducting a wagering game on a gaming terminal includes receiving, via an input device, a wager to play the wagering game. Each of a plurality of symbol bearing reels is spun using one or more motors of the gaming terminal. During the spinning, the symbols on a first one of the reels are monitored using one or more video cameras to generate image data associated with the symbols on the first reel. The generated image data associated with the symbols on the first reel is compared with master image data associated with the wagering game. Based on the comparing, it is determined if the symbols on the first reel are associated with the wagering game being conducted on the gaming terminal. | 09-18-2014 |
20140274288 | WAGERING GAMES EMPLOYING A MEGA SYMBOL - A method in a gaming system comprises receiving a wager and displaying an array having a plurality of array positions. Each of the plurality of array positions is populated by at least one of a plurality of symbols, which include a mega symbol configured to occupy at least two array positions on each of at least two adjacent columns of the array. In response to at least a portion of the mega symbol displayed in the array, the method includes determining a functionality for the mega symbol based on a number of array positions on which the mega symbol is displayed, the portion of the mega symbol displayed, the size of the mega symbol displayed, a random determination, the received wager, or a turnover amount over a plurality of plays. A payout is awarded based on the symbols displayed in the array and the determined functionality of the mega symbol. | 09-18-2014 |
20140274286 | WAGERING GAMES HAVING REDUCED MAXIMUM WAGERING LEVELS - A gaming system and method includes receiving a wager and in response thereto a basic game is conducted. The basic game includes a plurality of symbols that indicate a randomly selected outcome. In response to an offer trigger, an offer is displayed to conduct one or more subsequent plays of the basic game at a reduced maximum bet wager having a wager amount that is less than a normal maximum bet wager amount. A second input is received indicative of an acceptance of the offer for a reduced maximum bet wager. A randomly selected outcome is displayed. The plurality of possible outcomes each include a plurality of symbols arranged in an array. If the randomly selected outcome includes a winning symbol combination, an award is provided for any winning outcome. The provided award is determined as though a normal maximum bet wager amount was received. | 09-18-2014 |
20140274282 | SYSTEMS, METHODS, AND DEVICES FOR PLAYING WAGERING GAMES WITH SYMBOL CLUMPS AND NON-UNIFORM WEIGHTING OF REEL POSITIONS - Gaming devices, gaming systems, methods of conducting wagering games, and computer programs for executing wagering games are disclosed. A gaming system is disclosed which includes one or more processors and one or more memory devices storing instructions that, when executed by at least one of the processors, cause the gaming system to: receive a wager to play a wagering game with symbol-bearing reels, each of which has distinct reel positions populated by various symbols, at least one reel bearing a symbol clump; and, display via a display device a randomly determined outcome of the wagering game. Each wagering-game outcome includes predetermined symbols occupying distinct array positions in a displayed array. Each reel position has a weighted probability of occupying an array position in the array. The weighted probabilities are configured such that the symbol clump, when part of a wagering-game outcome, can only land in its entirety in the array. | 09-18-2014 |
20140274281 | WAGER SELECTIONS FOR WAGERING GAMES TRUNCATED BY PRIOR WAGE LEVEL - A gaming system includes one or more input devices, one or more display devices, one or more processors, and one or more memory devices storing instructions. When executed by the one or more processors, the instructions cause the gaming system to receive, via at least one of the input devices, an input indicative of a wager selected from at least one wager amount being a function of a previous wager associated with an immediately preceding wagering game. The instructions cause the gaming system to display a wagering game on the one or more displays, the wagering game being in an advantageous state relative to the immediately preceding wagering game. The instructions further cause the gaming system to display an outcome of the wagering game on the one or more displays, at least a portion of the outcome being enhanced by an outcome of the immediately preceding wagering game. | 09-18-2014 |
20140274274 | GAMING MACHINE WITH CONTROLLABLE AND VARIABLE MECHANICAL VIBRATION AND RHYTHM PATTERNS - According to some aspects of the present disclosure, a gaming machine includes one or more display devices configured to display a wagering game, a knocker, and one or more memory devices. The knocker includes a first impactor configured to strike a first portion of the gaming machine, and a motor coupled to the first impactor. The motor is configured to selectively actuate the first impactor to strike the first portion of the gaming machine with one of a first impact force and a second impact force. The one or more memory devices store instructions that, when executed by at least one processor, cause the gaming machine to actuate the knocker in response to an occurrence in the wagering game. | 09-18-2014 |
20140274251 | WAGERING GAME PREFERENCE SELECTION - A wagering game system and its operations are described herein. In some embodiments, the operations can include presenting, at a wagering game machine, a wagering game including a wagering game element. The operations can include presenting a graphical indicium in association with the wagering game element. The operations can include detecting player selection of the graphical indicium, wherein the player selection of the graphical indicium indicates player liking for the wagering game element. The operations can include modifying the wagering game based on the player liking for the wagering game element. | 09-18-2014 |
20140256450 | INTELLIGENT POWER SUPPLY AND METHODS FOR MONITORING A POWER SUPPLY - A method of monitoring a power supply of a gaming terminal comprises receiving, at an input of the power supply of the gaming terminal, an input power from an electrical power source, converting the input power to one or more output powers, providing, at one or more outputs of the power supply, the one or more output powers to one or more components of the gaming terminal, measuring, via one or more sensors, at least one electrical characteristic of the input power and the one or more output powers, and storing, in a memory, the measured at least one electrical characteristic for each of the input power and the one or more output powers. | 09-11-2014 |
20140256413 | Wagering Game System With Player Rewards - A gaming system includes one or more processors and one or more memory devices storing instructions that, when executed by at least one of the one or more processors, cause the gaming system to perform a plurality of operations. The operations include awarding a plurality of points to a player, and, in response to a predetermined number of the points being redeemed by the player, accessing or modifying wagering game content. | 09-11-2014 |
20140256409 | WAGERING GAME INTERFACE INCLUDING A PLURALITY OF BASE GAMES AND A COMMON VIRTUAL TOP BOX - A gaming system and method includes a primary wagering game displayed in a display area that is subdivided into display regions. The primary game includes a plurality of base games. The base games are displayed in a respective one of the display regions and each has a virtual character associated therewith. A simulated top box is displayed in one of the display regions. The simulated top box includes a secondary game common to the plurality of base games. In response to play of the primary wagering game being initiated, an outcome is determined for each of the plurality of base games and the outcomes are concurrently displayed. In response to a bonus trigger, at least two of the plurality of base games combine into a single bonus array of symbols for a bonus game. The single bonus array of symbols is displayed in one or more of the display regions. | 09-11-2014 |
20140248955 | Service Controller For Servicing Wagering Game Machines - Methods and apparatus for servicing wagering game machines are described herein. In one embodiment, the method includes receiving, over a wagering game network, service information originating from a wagering game machine, wherein the wagering game machine is configured to receive a wager associated with a wagering game. The method can also include, based on the service information and a service plan associated with the wagering game machine, determining a service action. The method can also include performing the service action. | 09-04-2014 |
20140248954 | Service Controller For Servicing Wagering Game Machines - Methods and apparatus for servicing wagering game machines are described herein. In one embodiment, the method includes receiving, over a wagering game network, service information originating from a wagering game machine, wherein the wagering game machine is configured to receive a wager associated with a wagering game. The method can also include, based on the service information and a service plan associated with the wagering game machine, determining a service action. The method can also include performing the service action. | 09-04-2014 |
20140248945 | WAGERING GAME HISTORY FEATURES - This description describes techniques for storing and utilizing wagering game histories. In one embodiment, a method for recording progress of a wagering game can include detecting a first event indicating a first activity of the wagering game. The method can also include storing the first event according to a first data format and detecting a second event indicating a second activity of the wagering game, wherein the second event includes random number information indicating a result of the wagering game. The method can also include encrypting the second event and storing the second event according to the first data format. | 09-04-2014 |
20140248934 | CONTROLLING EVENT-DRIVEN BEHAVIOR OF WAGERING GAME OBJECTS - A behavior controller system and its operations are described herein. In embodiments, the operations can include detecting one or more events that occur within a wagering game. The wagering game can feature a wagering game object that can automatically (e.g., intelligently) respond to the one or more events. The behavior controller system can use event-driven behavior controllers, such as a behavior tree. The behavior controller system can determine, and activate, tasks on the behavior tree that cause the wagering game object to respond to the one or more events. In some embodiments, the behavior controller system can also prioritize tasks that may be performed by behavior trees to prevent conflicts between wagering game objects during a wagering game. | 09-04-2014 |
20140243099 | SYSTEMS, METHODS AND DEVICES FOR CONFIGURING WAGERING GAME DEVICES BASED ON SHARED DATA - Gaming devices, gaming systems, methods of configuring gaming devices, and computer programs for configuring gaming devices are featured. A gaming machine is disclosed for communicatively coupling to peer gaming machines via a peer-to-peer network. The gaming machine includes a display device(s), a processor(s), and a memory device(s) storing instructions that cause the gaming machine to: store a first set of data indicative of the gaming machine's configuration parameters and a second set of data indicative of the gaming machine's performance; receive from one or more peer gaming machines a third set of data indicative of the peer gaming machine's(s′) configuration parameters and a fourth set of data indicative of the peer gaming machine's(s′) performance; analyze the third and fourth data sets to determine modifications to the gaming machine's configuration parameters to improve machine performance; and, automatically modify at least one configuration parameter of the gaming machine based upon the analysis. | 08-28-2014 |
20140243065 | COMMUNITY GAME HAVING ONLINE AND LAND-BASED GAME PLAY - In some embodiments, a computer-implemented method includes permitting a plurality of wagering game terminals to participate in a community game in a land-based gaming establishment. The method includes permitting a player device remote from the land-based gaming establishment to play an online game. The method also includes modifying, by at least one of one or more processors, the community game based on an event in the online game. | 08-28-2014 |
20140235332 | GAMING SOCIAL COMMUNICATION - Disclosed herein are one or more examples of generating a communication directed to a contact of a wagering game player account. In some embodiments, a gaming system can perform operations to determine an identity of an individual located within a given physical location and present, on a display device, a virtual identifier associated with the contact. The individual is indicated as a contact in a wagering game player account. The display device is associated with the wagering game player account. The gaming system can further perform an operation to detect a user input related to the virtual identifier presented on the display device. Further, the gaming system can perform an operation to send a communication to a device associated with the contact in response to detecting the user input. | 08-21-2014 |
20140235327 | GAMING MACHINE WITH ENHANCED PRIVACY FEATURES AND MECHANICS - A gaming system includes features to relay sensitive information to a player while keeping the sensitive information private from non-players. According to one aspect the gaming system comprises one or more input devices, one or more display devices for displaying a wagering game including sensitive and non-sensitive information, one or more processors, and one or more memory devices. The memory devices store instructions that cause the gaming system to display a plurality of images. The displayed images do not include the sensitive information. The instructions also cause the gaming system to provide an interactive feature configured to receive a predetermined user interaction via at least one of the one or more input devices. The instructions further cause the gaming system to display, in response to the predetermined user interaction with the interactive feature, a plurality of images, the displayed images including the sensitive information. | 08-21-2014 |
20140213368 | EMULATOR FOR PRODUCTION SOFTWARE OUTCOME VALIDATION - A test tool provides a flexible resource for control an of electronic gaming machine (EGM) via a data network. The test tool provides both interactive and automated access to the EGM when the EGM is operated using a special diagnostic BIOS that supports both communication with the test tool over the data network and the ability to set operational variables including random numbers. The test tool can use structured data test scripts, such as XML files, to automate repetitive testing of one or more gaming machines by automating breakpoint setting, variable settings, and comparison of expected results based on game type, paytables, currency, etc. | 07-31-2014 |
20140213337 | ENHANCED WAGERING GAME SYSTEM WITH ADDITIONAL BONUS CHALLENGES - A gaming system and method for conducting a wagering game includes a display having a display area showing a poker-themed wagering game. A wager input device receives a base wager to play the poker-themed wagering game. A controller is coupled to the display and the wager input device. The controller is operative to provide a plurality of symbol-bearing objects to form a user-playable hand and award a payoff based on a ranking of the user-playable hand meeting a predetermined criterion. The controller may receive a side wager separate from the base wager from the player to trigger a challenge based on meeting a condition in at least one of a predetermined number of future plays of the wagering game. Additional free challenges may be triggered for the predetermined number of future plays. | 07-31-2014 |
20140206442 | GAMING SYSTEM AND METHODS ADAPTED TO UTILIZE RECORDED PLAYER GESTURES - A method of utilizing a player's movements in association with a wagering game event, includes sensing a player's movements using a movement sensing device, storing a representation of the player's movements in non-transient computer-readable storage media in association with player-identifying information, associating the representation of the player's movements with the wagering game event in the storage media, and replaying the representation of the player's movements on one or more display devices operatively associated with a wagering game machine responsive to an occurrence of the wagering game event. | 07-24-2014 |
20140206441 | CONTROLLING APPLICATION DATA IN WAGERING GAME SYSTEMS - “A wagering game system and its operations are described herein. In embodiments, the operations can include obtaining data provided from a first application. In some examples, the first application is a wagering game application presented on a wagering game machine. The operations can also include determining a subscription level associated with a second application. The subscription level indicates access to the data from the first application. Further, the operations can also include, providing a service to the second application. In some examples, the service is one of a plurality of tiers of services that correspond to the subscription level. In some examples, the service has one of a plurality of degrees of access to the data from the first application according to the subscription level.” | 07-24-2014 |
20140206438 | AUTHORIZING AND MANAGING WAGERING AGENT ACCOUNTS - Described herein are processes and devices that authorize and manage wagering agents and associated accounts. One of the devices described is a wagering game system. The wagering game system can detecting a request from a first player account to utilize a shared wagering fund to wager on a wagering game. The shared wagering fund can be funded by a second player account. The wagering game system can make the shared wagering fund available to the first player account to wager on a wagering game. The wagering game system can determine a game award produced by the wagering game. The system can then allocate a portion of the game award to the second player account. | 07-24-2014 |
20140206432 | CONFIGURING WAGERING GAME MACHINES FOR GAMING EFFECTS - A wagering game system and its operations are described herein. In some embodiments, the operations can include detecting a request to configure a wagering game machine for presentation of a wagering game effect. The operations can further include, in response to detecting the request, evaluating, a position of the wagering game machine against criteria for presentation of the wagering game effect. The operations can further include, based on the evaluating the position of the wagering game machine against the criteria for presentation of the wagering game effect, modifying an availability of at least one of a plurality of options to configure the wagering game machine for the presentation of the wagering game effect. | 07-24-2014 |
20140201849 | SECURING EMBEDDED CONTENT IN A DISPLAY FRAME WITH PLAYER TRACKING SYSTEM INTEGRATION - Systems and methods are described for receiving restricted content in an embedded frame of a display. A first content server provides content for presentation to a client. In response to a request to present restricted content stored on a second server, the first server creates a URL query string including user credential data for authorizing the restricted content. The first server adds one or more hidden parameters to the URL query string and creates a signature based on the URL query string. The first server adds the signature to the URL query string to form a final query string and sends the final query string to a second content server in a request for the restricted content. The first server receives the restricted content and presents the restricted content in the embedded frame. | 07-17-2014 |
20140200065 | ASSOCIATING MOBILE DEVICE WITH ELECTRONIC GAMING MACHINE - A wagering game system and its operations are described herein. In some embodiments, the operations can include receiving, at a wagering game server, a request from a mobile device to play a wagering game via a selected wagering game machine among a plurality of wagering game machines on the wagering game network. The operations can also include associating the mobile device with the selected wagering game machine, wherein the associating allows receipt of input for the wagering game from the mobile device. The operations can also include receiving, via the wagering game network, commands resulting from inputs accepted by the mobile device. The operations can also include determining a result of the wagering game. | 07-17-2014 |
20140194190 | CONTROLLING CROSS-APPLICATION WAGERING GAME CONTENT - A wagering game system and its operations are described herein. In embodiments, the operations can include determining content from both a first wagering game application and from a second wagering game application. The first and second wagering game applications can be independent wagering game applications played by a player account during a wagering game session. The operations can further include determining some portion of the second content (e.g., three-dimensional objects) that appears to originate from a second-application domain (e.g., from within confines of the second wagering game application), and presenting the portion of the second content within a first-application domain (e.g., within confines of the first wagering game application). In some embodiments, the operations can further include presenting the portion of the second content interacting with the first content within the first-application domain (e.g., presenting three-dimensional objects from the second application interacting with three-dimensional objects of the first application). | 07-10-2014 |
20140194176 | COMPUTING WAGERING GAME LUCK - A wagering game system and its operations are described herein. In some embodiments, the operations can include causing at least one event to occur during play of a wagering game. In some embodiments, the operations can further include determining a difference between occurrence of the at least one event and a theoretical expectation of occurrence associated with the at least one event. In some embodiments, the operations can further include computing a luck factor based on the difference. The luck factor represents luck for occurrence of the at least one event. | 07-10-2014 |
20140179398 | WAGERING GAME WITH ASCENDING FEATURES - A gaming system includes a wagering game initiated by a wager. The wagering game further includes an ascending-feature game outcome that triggers an ascending feature in which symbols displayed in a symbol array are changed into different symbols, including higher-value symbols, that may be subsequently evaluated for winning symbol combinations. | 06-26-2014 |
20140179396 | Wagering Game Employing A Threshold-Based Game Enhancement - A gaming method of conducting a wagering game includes conducting one or more successive plays of the wagering game via one or more display devices in response to a triggering event. For each of the one or more successive plays, the method includes determining one or more award amounts based on the displayed outcomes of the one or more successive plays. The method further includes aggregating, via one or more processors, each of the one or more award amounts determined over the successive plays to calculate an aggregate award amount and determining, via at least one of the one or more processors, whether the aggregate award amount is greater than a threshold amount. The method includes providing an enhancement to the wagering game in response to the aggregate award amount being greater than the threshold amount. | 06-26-2014 |
20140171206 | OPT-IN PROXIMITY ALERT - A method for alerting a player about a wagering game machine is described herein. In some embodiments, the method can include determining that a wagering game machine is in proximity to the handheld computing device. The method can further include indicating that the wagering game machine is in proximity to the handheld computing device. | 06-19-2014 |
20140162783 | BROWSER BASED WAGERING GAME SYSTEMS AND CONFIGURATION - A wagering game system and its operations are described herein. In embodiments, the operations can include detecting a request to present wagering game content via a web browser associated with a wagering game machine, wherein an identifier is associated with the request, wherein the identifier is stored in a setting associated with the wagering game machine via a first mode of the wagering game machine, and wherein the request is provided via a second mode of the wagering game machine different from the first mode. The operations further include generating a document associated with the identifier, wherein the wagering game content is included in the document. In some examples, the document is in a format presentable via the web browser. The operations further include providing the document for presentation via the web browser. | 06-12-2014 |
20140162769 | WAGERING GAME AWARD SYSTEM - Embodiments of the inventive subject matter include detecting, by one or more processors, one or more events of a first event type, a second event type, and a third event type. Embodiments further include, in response to the detecting the one or more events of the first event type, the second event type, and the third event type, determining, by the one or more processors, non-cash awards of a first award type, second award type, and third award type, respectively, to provide to the player. | 06-12-2014 |
20140162762 | GAMING SYSTEM WITH PRIVACY FEATURES - A wagering game system includes a peripheral device with a peripheral device display and at least one processor configured to execute at least one application to display information on the peripheral device display. The system also includes a wagering game terminal with a terminal display configured to display a wagering game and a player-accessible interface configured to allow a player to communicatively couple the peripheral device to the wagering game terminal. The at least one application includes a wagering game application relating to the wagering game displayed on the terminal display of the wagering game terminal, and the at least one processor of the peripheral device executes the wagering application to display, on the peripheral device display, wagering game information relating to the wagering game. | 06-12-2014 |
20140155149 | COMMUNITY GAME THAT ADAPTS COMMUNAL GAME APPEARANCE - A community game that adapts a scene on a community display based on the number of participating players and/or player locations from one session of the community game to another or in any given session and/or number of the gaming terminals. Selectable elements are displayed on the community display for selection by the participating players. When additional players are eligible to participate in the community game, a field of view or a virtual camera angle of a scene is changed to reveal additional selectable elements or a greater variety of selectable elements than were available for selection with fewer participating players. Any of the selectable elements can be cooperatively selectable elements which multiple players can select to reveal an enhanced award. Based on the players' locations, the scene can be adapted to portray selectable elements or previously hidden or obscured areas of the scene closest to the newly participating player(s). | 06-05-2014 |
20140155145 | HANDHELD WAGERING GAME SYSTEM AND METHODS FOR CONDUCTING WAGERING GAMES THEREUPON - A gaming system for conducting a wagering game includes a handheld gaming machine configured to play at least one game and a controller. The controller is configured to base eligibility of the handheld gaming machine for a game-related feature at least upon a location of the handheld gaming machine and/or a proximity of the handheld gaming machine to an external device. | 06-05-2014 |
20140148245 | GAME OF CHANCE UTILIZING SOCIAL NETWORK CONTACT ATTRIBUTES - The disclosure includes a game of chance in which profile data for social contacts in a social networking system is used to determine whether a player wins or loses the game of chance. An indication that a first player desires to be included in a game provided on a social network system is stored. The game randomly selects a subset of a plurality of social contacts of a second player. In response to determining that the first player is included in the randomly selected subset of the plurality of social contacts, an award is provided to the first player. | 05-29-2014 |
20140141871 | CONTROLLING AND REWARDING GAMING SOCIALIZATION - A wagering game system and its operations are described. In some embodiments, the operations include detecting an indication of a benefit available to a first player account via a wagering game venue; and selecting a second player account linked to the first player account as a social contact. The operations can further include configuring a persistent object to provide access to the benefit available to the first player account; and transferring the persistent object from the first player account to the second player account. | 05-22-2014 |
20140141864 | PROVIDING EXCLUSIVE GAMING FEATURES FOR MOBILE GAMING - A wagering game system and its operations are described herein. In some embodiments, the operations can include determining that a mobile device is activated to receive secondary wagering game content during a wagering game session conducted via a wagering game machine. In some embodiments, the wagering game machine is configured to present primary wagering game content during the wagering game session. In some embodiments, the operations further include selecting secondary wagering game content in response to determining that the mobile device is activated to receive the secondary wagering game content. In some embodiments, the secondary wagering game content provides a wagering game feature that is not available via the primary wagering game content. In some embodiments, the operations further include providing the secondary wagering game content for presentation via the mobile device during the wagering game session. | 05-22-2014 |
20140135128 | DYNAMIC SKINNING OF WAGERING GAMES - Dynamic skinning can be propagated between a base game and a portal game. A base game and a portal game can be unidirectionally or bidirectionally “hooked” into each other to utilize perceivable elements of the other. For instance, a first set of dynamic perceivable elements are defined for a base game and a second set of dynamic perceivable elements are defined for a portal game. These sets of dynamic perceivable elements can change based on various conditions. The base game can rely on the second game (or code or configurations associated with the second game) for dynamic skinning that varies with the portal game while the portal game can rely on the base game (or code or configurations associated with the base game) for dynamic skinning that varies with the base game. Furthermore, a perceivable element can traverse a base game and a portal game. | 05-15-2014 |
20140135109 | INTEGRATING SOCIAL NETWORKING AND WAGERING SYSTEMS - A wagering game system and its operations are described herein. In embodiments, the operations can include connecting a social network account with a wagering game player account, wherein the wagering game player account is associated with a wagering game session, and wherein the social network account is associated with a social networking session via a venue for a social network. The operations can further include detecting a first event from a first of the social networking session and the wagering game session; and after detecting the first event, causing a second event to occur for a second of the social network session and the wagering game session. | 05-15-2014 |
20140135106 | AUTOMATED SOCIAL BONUS HARVESTING - Systems and methods are described for a proxy application that accesses multiple online games on behalf of a user and programmatically satisfies various criteria for bonus awards provided by the online games. The proxy application may be a stand-alone application or it may be a component of another application such as a plug-in for a web browser. | 05-15-2014 |
20140121015 | AUGMENTED REALITY GAMING EYEWEAR - A wagering game system and its operations are described herein. In some embodiments, the operations can include detecting initiation of a wagering game and determining, in response to the detecting the initiation of the wagering game, first content and second content to present for the wagering game. The operations can further include providing the first content for presentation on a display device, the first content being viewable through the gaming eyewear, and providing the second content for presentation as a virtual image via the gaming eyewear. | 05-01-2014 |
20140106865 | Funding concurrent wagering games - Described herein are processes and devices that perform operations that, in some embodiments, include receiving a request for concurrent presentation of a first wagering game and a second wagering game via a display device of a wagering game machine. The first wagering game includes first content that originates from a first content source, and the second wagering game includes second content that originates from a second content source. The operations further include accessing funds associated with the first wagering game. The operations further include funding one or more wagers for the second wagering game using at least a portion of the accessed funds associated with the first wagering game. | 04-17-2014 |
20140106864 | DISTRIBUTING INFORMATION IN A WAGERING GAME SYSTEM - Described herein are systems, methods, etc. to perform operations which, in some embodiments, include receiving, a request for concurrent presentation of a first wagering game and a second wagering game via a display device of a wagering game machine, wherein the first wagering game includes first content that originates from a first content source, wherein the second wagering game includes second content that originates from a second content source. The operations can further include accessing funds associated with the first wagering game. The operations can further include funding one or more wagers for the second wagering game using at least a portion of the accessed funds. | 04-17-2014 |
20140101537 | WEB PAGE CONSTRUCTIONS WITH DIFFERENT TECHNOLOGY CONTAINERS - Wagering game systems can leverage web browsers to present wagering game content with a variety of technologies. For instance, an electronic wagering game table can present diverse wagering game content (e.g., multiple wagering games, portal games, social networking applets, hospitality menus, etc.) with a variety of technologies that interface with a web browser. Also, a single wagering game can be constructed from multiple technologies. A wagering game system can implement a framework that dynamically builds up a web page to use multiple technologies for presenting content with a web browser on a wagering game system. The framework can dynamically construct the web page, which can involve modifying objects, embedding objects, removing objects, and replacing objects that correspond to different technologies. | 04-10-2014 |
20140100030 | ADAPTING GAMING CONTENT TO A GAMING ENVIRONMENT - A wagering game system and its operations are described herein. In some embodiments, the operations can include detecting environmental input from an environment surrounding a wagering game machine. In some embodiments, the operations further include analyzing the environmental input and determining a characteristic of the environment based on the analyzing of the environmental input. Further, in some embodiments, the operations further include adapting presentation of content via an output device associated with the wagering game machine based on the characteristic that was detected about the environment. | 04-10-2014 |
20140094319 | METHOD FOR MULTI MACHINE CRITICAL MEMORY VERSIONING, MIGRATION AND REPLICATION - A notification that the data in the critical memory is to be accessed may be received. The data in the critical memory may be reviewed to determine if a version update is required. It may be determined if the data in the critical memory requires a version update. If the data requires a version update, a related version algorithm may be used to retrieve the data from the critical memory. | 04-03-2014 |
20140094310 | DYNAMICALLY RECONFIGURABLE JOYSTICK - A gaming machine comprises one or more display devices, a configurable joystick, and one or more memory devices. The memory devices store instructions that, when executed by at least one processor, cause the machine to dispose the joystick in a first joystick state during a first game part and, responsive to a trigger, dynamically reconfigure the joystick to a second joystick state for use during a second game part. A method comprises receiving an input to play a game, providing a configurable joystick in a first joystick state, conducting a first game part with the joystick in the first joystick state, dynamically reconfiguring the joystick from the first joystick state to a second joystick state responsive to a trigger, and conducting a second wagering game part with the joystick in the second joystick state. | 04-03-2014 |
20140094308 | GAMING TERMINAL WITH A LIGHT DISSIPATING PUSH-BUTTON - A player-input device for a gaming system includes a light-transmissive button lens comprising interior and exterior surfaces extending to an outside perimeter. A textured surface is located along the outside perimeter of the button lens. A light source is disposed below a bottom edge of the button lens. The light source is operative to transmit light into the button lens such that the outside perimeter is illuminated at the textured surface. The textured surface is configured to dissipate the light over a substantial portion of the textured surface. | 04-03-2014 |
20140094301 | Glare Reduction For Wagering Games - A gaming machine has a cabinet with a cabinet frame, a display device, a light source, and a directional transmissible layer with directional light planes arranged parallel to and offset from each other. The display device is located within the cabinet frame and is configured to display a wagering game. The light source is positioned above the display device, within the cabinet frame, and emits direct light and indirect light towards a player position in front of the gaming machine. The indirect light reflects off the display device prior to reaching the player position, causing light glare towards the player position. To reduce or eliminate the light glare, the directional transmissible layer is placed at least in part over the light source such that the directional light planes are horizontally aligned with the display device to prevent at least some of the indirect light from reflecting off the display device. | 04-03-2014 |
20140094289 | GAMING SYSTEM HAVING EXCHANGEABLE BONUS TOKEN ACCUMULATION-REDEMPTION FEATURE - A gaming terminal is utilized for playing a wagering game. The gaming terminal includes a wager-input device and a display for displaying the wagering game. The wagering game includes a randomly-selected outcome selected from a plurality of outcomes in response to a wager input received via the wager-input device. The plurality of outcomes include at least one outcome that awards standard credits and bonus tokens. A credit output device outputs a value of the standard credits and the bonus tokens in response to achieving the at least one outcome. The bonus tokens are exchangeable for a special event on a second gaming terminal. | 04-03-2014 |
20140094278 | LOAN TRANSACTIONS IN A GAMING ENVIRONMENT - Loaning in a gaming environment may be managed by determining a loan value associated with a first player account, determining a transfer of the loan value from the first player account to a second player account, and determining a wager of the loan value from the second player account in the primary game. A loan win amount attributable to a winning outcome of the primary game when the loan value is used may be determined, and respective shares of the loan win amount may be allocated to the first and second player accounts. | 04-03-2014 |
20140094277 | MANAGING GIFTING BETWEEN PLAYERS IN A GAMING ENVIRONMENT - Gifting in a gaming environment may be managed by determining a transfer of a gift value from a first player account to a second player account and determining a wager of the gift value from the second player account in a wagering game. A gift win amount attributable to a winning outcome of the wagering game when the gift value is used may be determined, and respective shares of the gift win amount may be allocated to the first and second player accounts. | 04-03-2014 |
20140094276 | COMMUNITY GAMING SYSTEM WITH VARYING ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA - A computer-implemented method includes displaying a community game on at least one display device. Dependent upon a first player playing an underlying wagering game via a first terminal, the first player is permitted to participate in the community game. The community game is distinct from the underlying wagering game. Not dependent upon a second player playing an underlying wagering game via a second terminal, the second player is permitted to participate in the community game. | 04-03-2014 |
20140094275 | Sharable Games Created by Others - A system and method for providing a virtual customized wagering game include providing a customization interface to a first player to allow the first player to customize a virtual wagering game to create a customized virtual wagering game. The customized virtual wagering game created by the first player is stored and is provided to one or more other players alone or as part of a casino created by the first player. The one or more other players are able to play the customized virtual wagering game, and in an embodiment such play may confer a benefit such as an amount of virtual currency or a customization feature on the first player. | 04-03-2014 |
20140094274 | SYSTEMS, METHODS AND DEVICES FOR PLAYING WAGERING GAMES WITH SIMULTANEOUS REAL-TIME EVENTS AFFECTING THE WAGERING GAMES - Gaming devices, gaming systems, methods of conducting wagering games, and computer programs for executing wagering games are disclosed. A gaming system for playing a wagering game is disclosed which includes one or more display devices, one or more input devices, one or more processors, and one or more memory devices. The memory device(s) stores instructions that, when executed by the processor(s), cause the gaming system to: simultaneously display the wagering game and a real-time event; randomly determine an outcome of the wagering game; identify a selected incident occurring in the real-time event, the occurrence of which is not controlled by the player or the gaming system; associate the selected incident with a parameter of the wagering game; and, upon occurrence of the selected incident in the real-time event during the simultaneous display of the wagering game and the real-time event, modify the parameter for a play of the wagering game. | 04-03-2014 |
20140094266 | PROGRESSIVE WAGERING GAME HAVING SYMBOL-TRIGGERING AWARD FEATURE - Gaming devices, gaming systems, methods of conducting a wagering game, and computer programs for initiating a wagering game are presented herein. A gaming device is presented that includes a wager input device, a display, and at least one controller. The controller executes the wagering game, which includes first and second progressive awards each associated with a respective symbol-based outcome. Each symbol-based outcome has a respective frequency of occurrence. The controller randomly determines an outcome of the wagering game. The controller initiates a progressive-award-determination sequence in response to displaying the first and/or second symbol-based outcomes. There is a first probability of awarding the first progressive award, and a second probability of awarding the second progressive award. The first initial-award amount is greater than the second initial-award amount, the first frequency of occurrence is lower than the second frequency of occurrence, and the first probability is greater than the second probability. | 04-03-2014 |
20140094265 | WAGERING GAME INCLUDING MULTIPLE ARRAYS OF REEL SYMBOLS - A gaming system displays a first array of symbols and a second array of symbols for a wagering game. The second array of symbols includes at least one second-array reel. The at least one second-array reel includes a predetermined sequence of symbols. The at least one second-array reel rotates the predetermined sequence of symbols to determine at least partially the second array of symbols. The second array is divided into at least two sub-arrays, the at least one second-array reel extending into the at least two sub-arrays. A controller selects at least one symbol from the first array and copies the at least one selected symbol into one or more positions in each of the at least two sub-arrays. The at least two sub-arrays is displayed with combinations of symbols including the at least one selected symbol. The controller evaluates the combinations to determine an outcome to the wagering game. | 04-03-2014 |
20140094241 | WAGERING GAME WITH PROGRESSIVE JACKPOT AWARD DRIVEN BY SOCIAL COMMUNICATIONS - Systems and methods include one or more processing devices configured to provide or send displayable content over a network to a client. The displayable content provides a wagering game system. The wagering game system includes a progressive wagering game that awards one or more progressive jackpot awards to a player. In response to social communications by the player over the network, the wagering game system provides a reward to the player, where the reward relates to the progressive wagering game or the one or more progressive jackpot awards. | 04-03-2014 |
20140087888 | Gaming Machines And Gaming Systems Having A Personal Storage Alcove - A gaming machine includes one or more display devices configured to display the game, a cabinet housing the one or more display devices, and an alcove defined by a portion of an exterior surface of the cabinet. The alcove is configured to store one or more personal items and permit egress of a fluid from within the alcove. | 03-27-2014 |
20140087887 | Gaming Machine Having Enhanced Emotive Lighting Feature - A gaming machine includes a light source concealed within a cabinet frame, a light pipe, and a contoured reflective surface. The light pipe has a distal end adjacent to the light source and a proximal end along the cabinet frame and directly viewable from the player position. The light pipe directs the initial light from the distal end to the proximal end such that (a) some initial light exits the proximal end as direct light viewable from the player position and (b) some initial light exits a pipe section, extending between the distal end and the proximal end, as washed light. The contoured reflective surface is adjacent to the proximal end along the cabinet frame, and is configured to receive the washed light from the pipe section and to reflect at least some of the washed light as indirect light viewable from the player position. | 03-27-2014 |
20140087863 | Electronic Gaming Machine Configuration using an Impromptu Configuration Channel - An electronic gaming machine (EGM) may use a temporary network to perform configuration updates upon determining that a maintenance mode is active and that normal gaming operation is suspended. The temporary network may use cryptographically paired wireless devices that prevent man-in-the-middle attacks or eavesdropping. Alternatively, the temporary network may use an existing network that is utilized during normal gaming operation for accessories and/or loyalty data. Once the temporary, or ad hoc, network is established, a host electronic gaming machine or a standalone device may be used as a repository from which configuration information may be propagated to other electronic gaming machines, even if the other electronic gaming machines have a different games or configurations from that of the host. This capability may be particularly helpful in jurisdictions where EGM networking is prohibited during game play operation. | 03-27-2014 |
20140087862 | MODIFYING GAMING DEVICES FOR DETERMINED GROUPS - A gaming device may be modified in a way that is aimed at the similar interests in a focus group rather than on an individual. Groups are formed where the patrons in the groups have related elements. The related elements are compared to modifiable elements of the gaming device and modifications are made to the modifiable elements to attract the members of the focus group. | 03-27-2014 |
20140087830 | WAGERING GAME WITH A SECONDARY REEL HAVING OVERSIZED SINGLE-EVALUATION SYMBOLS - A gaming system includes one or more input devices, one or more display devices, and one or more processors, and one or more memory devices storing instructions that cause the gaming system to receive an input indicative of a wager. The instructions further cause the gaming system to display a wagering game having an array of symbol positions positioned on a plurality of primary reels and at least one secondary reel overlaying two or more adjacent primary reels, the secondary reel including at least one oversized standard symbol, the oversized symbol overlaying symbol positions on at least two of the two or more adjacent primary reels. The instructions further cause the gaming system to spin the two or more adjacent primary reels and the secondary reel such that the two or more adjacent primary reels and the secondary reel appear to spin as a single reel. | 03-27-2014 |
20140087810 | MANAGING WAGERING GAME APPLICATIONS AND EVENTS - A wagering game system and its operations are described herein. In some embodiments, the operations include receiving event data from a first application available on a wagering game machine, wherein the event data is in a first data format that is natively understood by the first application and not natively understood by a second application available on the wagering game machine. In some embodiments, the operations further include converting the event data to a second data format natively understood by the second application, wherein the second data format is not natively understood by the first application. In some embodiments, the operations further include communicating the event data in the second data format to the second application. | 03-27-2014 |
20140080603 | PRESENTING WAGERING GAME CONTENT - Techniques for processing and presenting wagering data are presented herein. In one embodiment, a method comprises configuring a wagering game terminal for contemporaneously presenting content for a plurality of wagering games. Configuring the terminal can include dividing a player interface into a plurality of areas, wherein each of the areas is associated with one of the plurality of wagering games. The configuring can also include resizing the content to fit in the areas. The method can also include receiving, from a remote wagering game server, results for one or more of the wagering games, and selecting portions of the content, wherein the portions of the content graphically represent the results. The method can also include displaying the portions of the content. | 03-20-2014 |
20140080593 | Gaming System and Method With Juxtaposed Mirror and Video Display - A gaming system includes a motion tracking sensing device, a user image reproduction device to display a mirror image of a user operating the gaming system, a user image enhancement display device disposed in proximity to the user image reproduction device, and one or more memory devices storing instructions. The instructions cause the gaming system to sense, via the motion tracking sensing device, a first relative position of the user, generate first graphical images and first graphical image locations based on the sensed first relative position of the user, and output the first graphical images at the first graphical image locations on the user image enhancement display device so that the graphical images overlay corresponding portions of the mirror image of the user when viewed from the sensed first relative position of the user. | 03-20-2014 |
20140080583 | AUTHORIZING AND MANAGING WAGERING AGENT ACCOUNTS - Described herein are processes and devices that authorize and manage wagering agents and associated accounts. One of the devices described is a wagering game system. The wagering game system can detecting a request from a first player account to utilize a shared wagering fund to wager on a wagering game. The shared wagering fund can be funded by a second player account. The wagering game system can make the shared wagering fund available to the first player account to wager on a wagering game. The wagering game system can determine a game award produced by the wagering game. The system can then allocate a portion of the game award to the second player account. | 03-20-2014 |
20140080579 | Rewarding Player Referrals in a Wagering Game - Existing and/or new registrants for a wagering game may be selected as qualified participants in a referral award game. The referral award game may include determining a referral award game trigger for initiating the referral award game. A draw may be conducted during which a referral award is randomly assigned to each qualified participant. The referral award may include a value component usable in at least one of the wagering game or a secondary game. Each of the wagering game, referral award game, and secondary game may be conducted in a casino game format or social game format. Information regarding the referral award may be communicated to each qualified participant. | 03-20-2014 |
20140080573 | ROTATABLE GAMING DISPLAY INTERFACES AND GAMING TERMINALS WITH A ROTATABLE DISPLAY INTERFACE - Gaming devices, gaming systems, and gaming display assemblies are presented herein. A gaming machine for playing a wagering game is disclosed. The gaming machine includes a support structure and an input device configured to receive an input indicative of a wager to play the wagering game. A primary display device is mounted to the support structure and configured to display randomly determined outcomes of the wagering game. A display interface device, which overlies at least a portion of the primary display device, includes a player-rotatable display interface rotatably mounted to the support structure and configured to be manually rotated by a player. The display interface device is operatively connected to the primary display device such that motion manually imparted to the player-rotatable display interface by a player affects one or more aspects of the wagering game displayed on the primary display device. | 03-20-2014 |
20140073430 | POSITION-BASED LIGHTING COORDINATION IN WAGERING GAME SYSTEMS - A wagering game system and its operations are described herein. In some embodiments, the operations can include detecting an indication to initiate a lighting presentation on a wagering game machine of a bank of wagering game machines. The operations can also include determining a position offset associated with the wagering game machine based, at least in part, on a position of the wagering game machine within the bank of wagering game machines relative to a reference wagering game machine of the bank of wagering game machines. The operations can further include determining a position-based time delay for initiating the lighting presentation on the wagering game machine based, at least in part, on the position offset associated with the wagering game machine, and initiating the lighting presentation on the wagering game machine after the position-based time delay associated with the wagering game machine. | 03-13-2014 |
20140073422 | INITIALIZING AND AUTHENTICATING WAGERING GAME MACHINES - Methods and apparatus for initializing and authenticating wagering game machines are described herein. In one embodiment, the method includes receiving a digital certificate from a mobile wagering game machine. The method can also include determining that the digital certificate is authentic and selecting wagering game content and services that are available to the mobile wagering game machine. The method can also include transmitting some of the available wagering game content to the mobile wagering game machine. | 03-13-2014 |
20140073413 | MANAGEMENT OF ONLINE WAGERING COMMUNITIES - The document describes operations for managing online wagering game casinos. In some embodiments of the inventive subject matter, the operations include presenting wagering games to players in an online casino; facilitating messaging between the players and a wagering game attendant; reporting results of the wagering games to the attendant; and detecting, from the wagering game attendant, a request to present a community bonus opportunity to one or more of the players. The operations can also include presenting the community bonus opportunity to the players; detecting responses to the community bonus opportunity, wherein the responses are associated with the players; determining one or more winners of prizes offered in the community bonus opportunity; and awarding the prizes to the one or more winners. | 03-13-2014 |
20140073409 | Gaming Apparatus Incorporating Targeted Haptic Feedback - A gaming apparatus includes a processor, a display device with a video display and a touchscreen, and a bezel adjacent to the display device which has regions capable of providing haptic feedback. The haptic feedback can be provided to a specific region of the bezel as well as a transparent overlay which is positioned over a button on the touchscreen. The apparatus may have sensors allowing for haptic feedback to be targeted based on data detected by the sensors. Additionally, virtual input buttons can be displayed and repositioned on the touchscreen in response to sensor data. | 03-13-2014 |
20140073403 | Projected Reels With Spinning Mechanism - A gaming machine is configured for playing a wagering game and includes at least one non-rotating curved surface and a projection apparatus. The projection apparatus includes at least one rotatable element and is configured to project images of symbols onto the curved surface while the at least one rotatable element is rotated and then stopped such that the symbols appear to respectively move and then stop along the curved surface. The stopped symbols indicate a randomly selected outcome of the wagering game. | 03-13-2014 |
20140066198 | DYNAMIC MAPPING OF PHOTO ELEMENTS TO A GAME - Systems and methods receive digital images from online sources. The digital images are analyzed and various objects are recognized within the digital images. The recognized objects may be faces of persons appearing in the digital images. A subset of the digital images is selected according to selection rules applied to the recognized objects. The selected recognized objects are incorporated into a wagering game. For example, the recognized objects may be incorporated onto symbols of wagering game. | 03-06-2014 |
20140066184 | EXTERNAL EVALUATOR - Although wagering games and wagering game machines provide significant entertainment and excitement, outcomes of wagering games can be used to provide entertainment and excitement external to the wagering game machines and even distinct and/or separate from the wagering games that generate the outcomes. A wagering game machine can communicate wagering game outcome data to a machine that is external to the wagering game machine for evaluation of the wagering game outcome data (“external evaluator”). The external evaluator can evaluate the wagering game outcome data against rules and/or criteria that lead to an exciting and entertaining event separate and/or distinct from the wagering game itself. Evaluating wagering game outcome data separate from the hosting wagering game machine allows a variety of events to be associated with game outcomes and allows for events to adapt to a dynamic environment and/or to player preferences. | 03-06-2014 |
20140066178 | PRESENTING AUTOSTEREOSCOPIC GAMING CONTENT ACCORDING TO VIEWER POSITION - A wagering game system and its operations are described herein. In some embodiments, the operations can include determining a position of a player in physical world space (“player's position”) in front of an autostereoscopic display (“display”). The display includes optical units configured to project views of wagering game content with an autostereoscopic, three-dimensional effect. The operations can further include performing a repeating subroutine for each of the optical units associated with the wagering game content. The repeating subroutine, for each one of the optical units, determines that one of the views has a viewing angle that corresponds to the player's position, configures a virtual camera in virtual world space according to the viewing angle and renders, based on configuration of the virtual camera, a portion of the wagering game content that corresponds to pixels of the autostereoscopic display associated with the one of the optical units. | 03-06-2014 |
20140066170 | Wagering Game Having Enhanced Display Of Winning Symbols - An outcome of a wagering game is evaluated to determine if it is a winning outcome. In response to the outcome being a winning outcome, it is determined if the winning outcome includes two or more groups of winning symbols. In response to determining that the winning outcome includes two or more groups of winning symbols, each of the two or more groups of winning symbols is visually highlight in a sequential fashion. Further, it is determined if each of the two or more groups includes winning symbols on two or more lines. In response to determining that one of the two or more groups includes winning symbols on two or more lines, the winning symbols on each of the two or more lines is visually highlighted in a sequential fashion. | 03-06-2014 |
20140057726 | ADAPTIVE ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS - An establishment can coordinate devices (e.g., lights, speakers, displays) to enhance a game playing environment based on events detected in a network of wagering game machines. A system can be implemented that determines an environmental effect based on an event of a wagering game (e.g., a near win event), regardless of the particular wagering game developer/manufacturer. The system can then determine that the environmental effect should be modified based on current circumstances of the area to be impacted and/or the player, for example. The system modifies the environment effect as indicated for the current circumstances and causes the modified environmental effect to be produced. | 02-27-2014 |
20140057721 | INTERACTIVE TETHER USING TENSION AND FEEDBACK - A wand-shaped handheld device tethered to a fixed structure in a gaming system by one or more cables wound around reels. The handheld device includes a button on a top thereof as a secondary input means. Motors coupled to the reels wind the cables or apply an opposing force to a pulling force applied to the device. Sensors detect how far the cables are retracted or pulled relative to the fixed structure. Haptic feedback devices impart tactile vibrations that are transmitted along the cable(s) and to the handheld device as the motor is pulling the handheld device toward the fixed structure or a player grasping the device is pulling it away from the fixed structure. Wagering game graphics are coordinated with the movement of the device so that movements or selection of the graphics are affected by inputs made by moving the handheld device or pressing its button. | 02-27-2014 |
20140057716 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR FLEXIBLE BANKING OF WAGERING GAME MACHINES - A method of altering a wagering game theme for a flexible bank of wagering game machines, the flexible bank including a first sub-portion, a second sub-portion, and one or more display elements disposed between the first and second sub-portions, includes the acts of displaying graphical content relating to a first wagering game theme on the first and second sub-portions and on the one or more display elements and using a controller, responsive to a trigger, to switch the second sub-portion to display a second wagering game theme different than the first wagering game theme and to cause the one or more display elements to display a blank display or graphical content different than the first and second wagering game themes. | 02-27-2014 |
20140057701 | GAMING INCENTIVES BASED ON MEASURED EFFECT OF USER WEB ACTIVITY - A gaming system includes at least one gaming server having at least one processor and at least one memory device storing instructions. The instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the at least one gaming server to assign one or more unique identifiers to a registrant, monitor for web activity associated with the one or more unique identifiers and initiated by the registrant, measure an effect of the web activity, and convert the measured effect into a gaming incentive. | 02-27-2014 |
20140051508 | MANAGING GRANT OF DIGITAL ACHIEVEMENTS - A system for granting and managing dynamic digital achievements can grant dynamic digital achievements in a controlled manner to encourage player participation in wagering game establishments. A dynamic digital achievement lives beyond an initial grant and can exhibit different behaviors over time and/or in combination with other digital achievements. The dynamic digital achievements can comprise an image, a sequence of images, video, executable code, audio, etc. The dynamic behavior of a digital achievement can increase interest in the digital achievement, thus increasing interest in the corresponding activity, whether wagering game activity or non-wagering game activity. Moreover, the system for granting and managing dynamic digital achievements is not limited to wagering game networks. The system can interface with other vendor systems and cause a dynamic digital achievement to exhibit behavior based on activity by a player in a non-gaming environment. | 02-20-2014 |
20140051500 | SYSTEMS, METHODS AND DEVICES FOR CONFIGURING WAGERING GAME SYSTEMS AND DEVICES - Gaming devices, gaming systems, methods of configuring gaming devices, and computer programs for configuring gaming devices are featured. A gaming system for playing a wagering game is disclosed which includes a processor(s), an input device(s), a gaming device(s), and a memory device(s) storing instructions that, when executed by at least one of the processors, cause the gaming system to: receive, via at least one of the input devices, a desired value for a player-performance variable and/or a game-configuration variable for at least one of the gaming devices; based on the desired value, output a recommended value for a configuration parameter for the gaming device(s); and, responsive to a confirmation input received via at least one of the input devices, configure the gaming device(s) in accordance with at least the recommended value for the first configuration parameter. | 02-20-2014 |
20140051499 | SYSTEMS, METHODS AND DEVICES FOR CONFIGURING WAGERING GAME DEVICES BASED ON SHARED DATA - Gaming devices, gaming systems, methods of configuring gaming devices, and computer programs for configuring gaming devices are featured. A gaming machine is disclosed for communicatively coupling to peer gaming machines via a peer-to-peer network. The gaming machine includes a display device(s), a processor(s), and a memory device(s) storing instructions that cause the gaming machine to: store a first set of data indicative of the gaming machine's configuration parameters and a second set of data indicative of the gaming machine's performance; receive from one or more peer gaming machines a third set of data indicative of the peer gaming machine's(s') configuration parameters and a fourth set of data indicative of the peer gaming machine's(s') performance; analyze the third and fourth data sets to determine modifications to the gaming machine's configuration parameters to improve machine performance; and, automatically modify at least one configuration parameter of the gaming machine based upon the analysis. | 02-20-2014 |
20140038709 | PLAYER INITIATED MULTI-PLAYER GAMES - Some embodiments include a computer-implemented method for enabling a player to configure and initiate multiplayer wagering games. The computer-implemented method can include presenting, on a display device of a wagering game machine, a graphical user interface including social contact icons representing social contacts associated with the player, and a multiplayer wagering game icon associated with a multiplayer wagering game. The method can also include detecting input indicating selection of the multiplayer wagering game icon and the social contact icons. The method can also include transmitting, to the social contacts via a network, invitations to participate in the multiplayer wagering game. The method can also include detecting acceptance of the invitations from at least one of the social contacts, and conducting the multiplayer wagering game involving the player and the at least one of the social contacts. | 02-06-2014 |
20140038701 | GAMING SYSTEM HAVING VIRTUAL ASSETS AND ACHIEVEMENTS - A gaming system having virtual assets comprises a wager input device, at least one gaming terminal comprising a display for displaying a wagering game, and a virtual asset server in communication with the at least one gaming terminal, the virtual asset server storing and managing one or more types of virtual assets, each type of virtual asset having a different plurality of attributes associated therewith. The system comprises at least one controller operative to cause the first display to display the first wagering game, in response to a first triggering event, award one or more of the virtual assets to a player of the first wagering game, store information regarding the awarded virtual assets in a player account associated with the player and accessible to the virtual asset server, and provide a monetary award to the player for any winning outcomes achieved during play of the first wagering game. | 02-06-2014 |
20140038141 | USING MOBILE DEVICES IN WAGERING GAME ENVIRONMENTS - Some embodiments of the inventive subject matter include a computer-implemented method for providing tutorial content explaining a live casino table game. The method can include capturing a video stream of the live casino table game. The method can also include determining a game state for the live casino table game, wherein the game state includes a record of wagers for players of the live casino table game and results for the players of the live casino table game. The method can also include determining tutorial content based on the game state for the live casino table game, wherein the tutorial content includes information explaining strategy for the live casino table game. The method can also include transmitting a content stream including the video stream of the live casino table game and the tutorial content. | 02-06-2014 |
20140031108 | Gaming Machines And Gaming Systems Having Impact Detection And Deterrence Responses - According to one aspect of the present invention, a gaming terminal includes one or more output devices, one or more sensors, and one or more processors in communication with the one or more output devices and the one or more sensors. The one or more sensor devices are configured to measure an impact on the gaming terminal and generate an impact signal indicative of the measured impact. The one or more processors being operable to receive the impact signal from the one or more sensors, determine a response from a plurality of potential responses based on the impact signal, and cause the one or more output devices to provide at least one of an audio output and a visual output according to the determined response. | 01-30-2014 |
20140031101 | WAGERING GAME WITH DYNAMIC BONUS TRIGGERS - A gaming system for conducting a wagering game includes input device(s), display device(s), processor(s), and memory device(s). The memory devices store instructions that, when executed, cause the gaming system to receive a wager to initiate each instance of the wagering game, randomly select a game outcome for each instance of the wagering game, display the randomly selected game outcome for each instance, and initiate a special event in response to an occurrence of a triggering event during an instance of the wagering game. At least two of the randomly selected outcomes include a first special symbol that has a dynamic secondary element. The dynamic secondary element represents a first enhancement in a first instance and a second enhancement in a second instance of the wagering game. The triggering event and special event are associated with at least one special symbol. The special event is modified by the dynamic secondary element. | 01-30-2014 |
20140031100 | WAGERING GAME WITH MULTIPLE UNLOCKABLE ARRAYS - A gaming system for conducting a wagering game includes an input device, a display device, a processor, and a memory device. The memory device stores instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the gaming system to receive a wager in response to an input, display a main array of symbol-bearing reels, and to display a plurality of enhanced arrays. The main array includes a plurality of enhanced-array triggers. Each enhanced array includes an enhancement feature and each enhanced array is associated with at least one of the plurality of enhanced-array triggers. The enhanced arrays are spun and evaluated upon display of the associated enhanced-array triggers. | 01-30-2014 |
20140024437 | SYSTEMS, METHODS AND DEVICES FOR PLAYING WAGERING GAMES WITH DISTRIBUTED COMPETITION FEATURES - Gaming devices, gaming systems, methods of conducting wagering games, and computer programs for executing wagering games are disclosed. A gaming system for playing a wagering game is disclosed which includes a processor(s) and a memory device(s) storing instructions that, when executed by at least one of the processors, cause the gaming system to: display, via a display device(s), a randomly determined outcome of the wagering game; responsive to a triggering event, transmit an offer to participate in a competitive gaming feature to a second player(s); randomly determine a first final outcome of the competitive gaming feature for the first player; randomly determine a second final outcome of the competitive gaming feature for the second player; and, in response to a valuation of the first final outcome being better than a valuation of the second final outcome, award a competitive gaming feature award to the first player. | 01-23-2014 |
20140024433 | Wagering Game For Awarding Attributes In A Plurality Of Plays - A method for conducting a computer-implemented wagering game includes using a processor to execute a plurality of plays of the wagering game, each play having an expected value. A plurality of randomly selected symbols, which are associated with each play, are displayed on a display. The processor is used to randomly assign a plurality of attributes across the plurality of plays. Each attribute increases an expected value of the play to which the attribute is assigned, from a first value to a second value. The first value is in the absence of the attribute and the second value is in the presence of the attribute. | 01-23-2014 |
20140024429 | Wagering Game With Elements Influenced By Symbol Array - A gaming system includes a memory device storing instructions for receiving a wager and displaying a first array of randomly selected reel symbols at respective first positions. A second array of selectable elements is displayed at respective second positions, each second position being associated with at least one respective first position. In response to the first array of randomly selected reel symbols including a triggering symbol at one of the first positions, the element at the second position associated with the one of the first positions is selected independent of player choice. An award is awarded based on the selected element. | 01-23-2014 |
20140018166 | POSITION SENSING GESTURE HAND ATTACHMENT - An attachment worn against a palm side or a back side of a metacarpus of a person's hand. The attachment includes a flexible band or strip to which a sensing electronics module is attached that contains in a housing electronics for sensing gesture characteristics made by the wearer's hand, including a communications interface for communicating gesture characteristic data to a system external to the hand-worn attachment. The attachment sends at least position and orientation data in real time as a gesture is made to an external system, such as a gaming terminal. Optional sensors for detecting light, acceleration, orientation, or pressure can be used to detect other gesture characteristics and/or user inputs made while wearing the attachment. The gestures and user inputs can be used to influence graphical objects displayed on one or more displays displaying a program, such as a wagering game. | 01-16-2014 |
20140018163 | Gaming Machine with Separately Selectable Wagering Games - A gaming system for conducting a wagering game allows players, casino operators, and/or gaming machine manufacturers to selectively combine base games and bonus games. This modular approach allows players, casino operators, and/or gaming machine manufacturers to mix and match base games and bonus games as needed. In some embodiments, players, casino operators, and/or gaming machine manufacturers may also select different game features to employ in the bonus and/or base games. Such an arrangement allows players, casino operators, and/or gaming machine manufacturers to configure each base game and/or bonus game according to their preferences. | 01-16-2014 |
20140018162 | WAGERING GAME WITH ENHANCED WAGER-PER-LINE FEATURE - A gaming machine for conducting a wagering game by a player includes a display, a credit indicator and a controller. The display is for displaying a wagering-game outcome having a plurality of symbols arranged in an array. The array includes a plurality of paylines for indicating symbol combinations in the array. The player is required to play all of the plurality of paylines in exchange for a minimum wager amount. The credit indicator indicates the number of available credits for making a wager amount. The controller is in communication with the display and the credit indicator. In response to the number of available credits being less than the minimum wager amount, the controller causes the display to display a group of player options for allowing the player to select a disposition for the available credits. The group of player options includes a reduced-payline option to play less than all paylines for a subsequent wagering-game outcome. | 01-16-2014 |
20140018158 | INTEGRATING OTHER PLAYERS WINS INTO A WAGERING GAME - Systems and methods provide a wagering game in which previous wins from other games of other players or the current player are integrated into the wagering game and provided as a potential payout in the wagering game. | 01-16-2014 |
20140018147 | WAGERING GAME WITH GAME ENHANCEMENT WINDOW - A gaming system includes instructions that cause the gaming system to receive an input indicative of a wager, display a plurality of reels defining a symbol array, and display a symbol-alteration region including at least two symbol positions and extending through a subset of the symbol array at a predefined position. The plurality of reels includes a plurality of symbols moving through the symbol array. The plurality of symbols includes a special symbol that has a first function for evaluating a game outcome. The symbol-alteration region is positioned such that at least some of the symbols move between a first position outside the symbol-alteration region and a second position within the symbol-alteration region. The instructions further cause the gaming system to, in response to the special symbol stopping within the symbol-alteration region, alter a functionality of the special symbol to include a second function for evaluating the game outcome. | 01-16-2014 |
20140004938 | PROVIDING AND CONTROLLING EMBEDDABLE GAMING CONTENT | 01-02-2014 |
20140004924 | WAGERING GAME WITH IMAGES HAVING DYNAMICALLY CHANGING SHAPES | 01-02-2014 |
20130344939 | Wagering Game Having Adjacent-Reel Functionality Enhancements - According to one aspect of the present invention, a method of conducting a wagering game on a gaming system includes receiving a wager in response to an input via at least one input device. The method also includes displaying, on at least one display device, a randomly selected outcome of a wagering game in a display area. The display area includes a plurality of reels with a plurality of symbols forming an array. The plurality of symbols includes at least one special symbol. In response to the randomly selected outcome including a special symbol on adjacent ones of the plurality of reels, the method includes changing the functionality of the special symbols on the adjacent ones of the plurality of reels to create a modified array. | 12-26-2013 |
20130337897 | WAGERING GAME WITH SHARED PAYOFF BASED ON MULTIPLE PLAYER SELECTIONS - The present invention is directed to a gaming terminal and a method of playing a wagering game at a gaming terminal whereby multiple players make selections and accumulate bonus awards as the game is passed from one player to another. Play continues until a game-terminating object is selected. At that time, each player that participated in the wagering game receives his or her accumulated awards plus any awards won by subsequent players. | 12-19-2013 |
20130337890 | MOBILE APPLICATIONS AND WAGERING GAME MACHINES - In some embodiments, a method includes presenting a wagering game at a wagering game machine. The method includes establishing a wireless communication between the wagering game machine and a mobile device. The method also includes, in response to a wagering game player satisfying a wagering game criteria when playing the wagering game, enabling access to content on the mobile device, wherein the content is based on a context resulting from the wagering game player playing the wagering game. | 12-19-2013 |
20130337889 | DETECTION AND RESPONSE TO AUDIBLE COMMUNICATIONS FOR GAMING - A wagering game system and its operations are described herein. In some embodiments, the operations can include detecting one or more audible communications made during a wagering game session, evaluating the one or more audible communications in context with gaming information associated with the wagering game session; and presenting an automated response to the one or more audible communications based on the evaluating of the one or more audible communications in context with gaming information. | 12-19-2013 |
20130337886 | WAGERING GAME WITH ALTERED PROBABLILITIES BASED ON REEL STRIP CONFIGURATIONS - A gaming system for playing a wagering game includes a display configured to displaying a wagering game outcome on a plurality of video reels and a controller in communication with the display. The controller is operative to randomly determine an outcome of the wagering game and to display the wagering game outcome on the plurality of reels. The wagering game outcome includes a plurality of symbols disposed on a first subset of the plurality of reels and further includes at least one meta-symbol disposed on a second subset of the plurality of reels. The controller is further operative to award an award if the displayed wagering game defines a winning wagering game outcome. | 12-19-2013 |
20130331188 | Gaming Machine With Surround Sound Features - A gaming machine for conducting a wagering game includes selective application of surround sound. The selective application of surround sound allows certain key gaming events to be emphasized over other gaming events. The surround sound may be varied to produce certain effects, such as a tactile effect and a gradual building up of suspense and anticipation that increases player excitement and enjoyment. A surround sound decoder may be added in some embodiments to convert monophonic and stereo wagering games into surround sound. The surround sound may be implemented as true surround sound or as virtual surround sound. | 12-12-2013 |
20130331173 | WAGERING GAME APPARATUS AND METHOD WITH ENHANCEMENT PARAMETER DICTATED BY PRIOR PLAY - A gaming system for conducting a wagering game includes a display device configured to portray wagering game outcomes indicated by symbols populated in symbol arrays. The gaming system receives a first wager and displays a first symbol array to indicate the outcome for the first wager. The gaming system receives a second wager and displays a second symbol array to indicate the outcome for the second wager. During portrayal of the second outcome, the first symbol array is displayed simultaneously with the second symbol array, and the first symbol array is modified according to one or more symbols in the second symbol array. The gaming system provides an award according to the improvement, if any, in the second symbol array resulting from the modification. | 12-12-2013 |
20130324220 | WAGERING GAME CONTENT BASED ON LOCATIONS OF PLAYER CHECK-IN - A computer-implemented method comprises replacing, by one or more processors, original wagering game content with modified wagering game content based on a wagering game player's check-ins at one or more physical locations. The method also includes presenting, on an electronic display device, a wagering game with the modified wagering game content in place of the original wagering game content. | 12-05-2013 |
20130324219 | LOCATION AWARE-BASED WAGERING GAMES - A computer-implemented method includes determining, by one or more processors, a physical location of a mobile device. The method also includes determining wagering game content associated with the physical location, wherein the wagering game content is for use in presenting at least one wagering game on the mobile device. | 12-05-2013 |
20130324213 | Wagering Game With Reel Array Having Extended Symbol Visually Overlaying Adjacent Reel - A gaming system includes an input device, a display device, a processor, and a memory device. The memory device stores instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the gaming system to receive a wager and to display an array having a plurality of symbol positions, each of the symbol positions being populated by symbols located on a plurality of symbol-bearing reels. The reels spin and stop to place symbols on the symbol-bearing reels in visual association with symbol positions of the array. At least one extended symbol indexed on a first reel visually overlaps one or more symbols on an adjacent second reel (a) as the first reel spins the extended symbol through the array and (b) without affecting a stopping position of the adjacent second reel. An award is awarded for any winning combinations defined by the symbols in the display area. | 12-05-2013 |
20130324206 | UTILITY HOOK AND SENSOR ASSEMBLY FOR WAGERING GAME TERMINALS AND GAMING SYSTEMS - Gaming terminals, gaming machines, gaming systems and utility hook and sensor assemblies are presented. A gaming terminal for playing a wagering game is disclosed. The gaming terminal includes a cabinet, at least one display device configured to display aspects of the wagering game, and at least one input device configured to receive an input from a player to play the wagering game. The gaming terminal also includes a support mechanism that is attached to the cabinet and is configured to support a personal belonging of the player. An alert system is configured to detect the presence or absence, or both, of the personal belonging and/or the player at the gaming terminal, and generate an alert signal in response to the detected presence or absence. | 12-05-2013 |
20130316818 | INCORPORATING DATA INTO A WAGERING GAME - Systems and methods receive data from one or more source databases into a target database and use the data to personalize or customize a wagering game to a game player. The data may be social network data regarding a player's social contacts, fantasy sports league data associated with the player or other data associated with the player. The data is normalized and data elements from the data are mapped to game elements or symbols to create personalized game elements or symbols. The personalized game elements or symbols are then used as part of a wagering game. | 11-28-2013 |
20130310183 | TRANSPORTING AND USING WAGERING GAME DATA - A wagering game system and its operations are described herein. In some embodiments, the operations can include storing a copy of wagering game content of a wagering game on a portable data storage device while the portable data storage device is connected to a wagering game machine in a casino, the wagering game being played at the wagering game machine. The operations can further include disconnecting the portable data storage device from the wagering game machine, the portable data storage device being configured to transport the copy of the wagering game content to play on a computing device outside the casino. | 11-21-2013 |
20130310178 | CONFIGURING AND CONTROLLING WAGERING GAME AUDIO - A wagering game system and its operations are described herein. In embodiments, the operations can include providing a custom sound design interface. The operations can further include receiving user input via the custom sound design interface, wherein the user input is to design a custom sound for a wagering game machine including presentation instructions for the custom sound. The operations can further include storing the custom sound. The operations can further include receiving, from the wagering game machine, a request for the custom sound. The operations can further include transmitting, to the wagering game machine, the custom sound including the presentation instructions for the custom sound. | 11-21-2013 |
20130310163 | GAMING-RELATED USE AND MODIFICATION OF PROFILES - A wagering game system and its operations are described herein. In some embodiments, the operations can include obtaining gaming information associated with wagering games, wagering game machines, etc. In some embodiments, the gaming information is obtained via a communication link between a gaming device and a mobile device. The operations can further include selecting, loading, and/or accessing a profile for the mobile device in response to obtaining the gaming information. The operations can further include modifying, and/or suggesting modifications for, the profile for the mobile device based on the gaming information. In some embodiments, the operations include modifying a profile for a gaming device or a wagering game based on information obtained from the mobile device. | 11-21-2013 |
20130310147 | WAGERING GAME HAVING GAME ASSETS WITH MULTIPLE LEVELS OF ENHANCEMENT - A gaming system includes an input device, at least one display, and at least one controller. The input device receives a wager input for playing a wagering game. The at least one display displays a basic wagering game and a community bonus game. The at least one controller is operative to provide a player with a bonus-game asset that is usable in at least a first play of the community bonus game. The bonus-game asset is capable of having at least a first level and a second level that provides a higher bonus-game enhancement than the first level. The at least one controller is further operative to determine if that the bonus-game asset is available to the player for use in a second play of the community bonus game and to alter the level of the bonus-game asset from the first level to the second level for use in the second play. | 11-21-2013 |
20130303284 | WAGERING GAME SYSTEM WITH STEREOSCOPIC 3-D GRAPHICS - This document describes techniques for processing graphics in wagering game systems. Some embodiments of the inventive subject matter use stereoscopic 3-D graphics and 2-D graphics to present composite images including multiple views of a virtual 3-D wagering game environment. Such embodiments present the composite images on stereoscopic 3-D devices. | 11-14-2013 |
20130303260 | WAGERING GAME HAVING SYMBOL TRANSFER FROM FEEDER ARRAY TO PRIMARY ARRAY - A primary array of symbol positions arranged in a plurality of columns and a feeder array of symbol positions arranged in one or more columns are displayed. A plurality of symbols including a special symbol is randomly distributed such that (i) each of the symbol positions of the primary and feeder arrays is associated with one of the plurality of symbols thereby forming a first outcome. In response to one of the symbol positions of the primary array being associated with the special symbol, one or more of the symbols associated with the feeder array is visually transferred to the primary array of symbol positions. The first outcome is modified with the one or more transferred symbols thereby forming a second outcome. | 11-14-2013 |
20130296057 | GESTURE FUSION - “Fusion” gestures that transition from air to surface or surface to air and interactions with graphical objects displayed on one or more display devices. Surface-to-air gestures are captured on a surface of a touch-based sensing device, and the gesture leaves the surface and enters a volumetric space adjacent to the surface, where a 3D gesture sensing system captures the gesture in 3D space. One or more objects displayed on the display device(s) are graphically shown to be manipulated by the gesture. Air-to-surface gestures are captured in the reverse manner. Different devices housed in separate housings can detect the different types of gestures. For example, a gaming terminal can detect surface gestures made on a single- or multi-touch sensitive surface while a portable electronic device in communication with the gaming terminal can detect air gestures made in a volumetric space in front of the gaming terminal. | 11-07-2013 |
20130296053 | GAMING MACHINE HAVING DISPLAY WITH SENSORY FEEDBACK - A method of conducting a wagering game on a gaming machine includes the steps of displaying a selectable game element on a display and associating each potential outcome associated with the selectable game element with a predetermined haptic output selected from a plurality of predetermined haptic device outputs. The method also includes the steps of selecting the selectable game element to reveal an outcome associated therewith and causing a haptic device to output the predetermined haptic output corresponding to the outcome of the selectable game element. | 11-07-2013 |
20130281210 | WAGERING GAME AUDIO ENDING IN KEY OF CURRENT STATE - In a wagering game machine, operations and systems are disclosed for ending wagering game audio in a key of the current state. In one embodiment, the use of markers to denote the state of a music file enables following the continuous music and ending wagering game bang-up audio in whatever key the continuous music is in at the precise moment the bang-up ends. The continuous music, bang-ups and marker file are all started at the same time and may be the same length. The continuous music is audible, the bang-ups are heard by raising the volume when programmatically called for, and the marker file continuously sends out signals at a set rate which the code then interprets to determine the state of the song to trigger the appropriate musical ending. When the bang-up ends it can then be played in the key corresponding to the current state of the music. | 10-24-2013 |
20130281189 | USING NON-WAGERING-GAME STATE FOR WAGERING GAMES - A wagering game system and its operations are described herein. In some embodiments, the operations can include initiating a wagering game session and accessing a non-wagering game (e.g., a simulation social network game) during the wagering game session. The non-wagering game and wagering game can be associated with the same user. The operations can further include detecting a state (e.g., one or more virtual assets) of the non-wagering game. The operations can further include presenting the wagering game based on the state of the non-wagering game. For instance, the operations can select a type of wagering game content to present or modify a volatility of the wagering game based on the state of the non-wagering game. | 10-24-2013 |
20130274012 | Display Mechanism For Volatility-Alteration Features - A gaming system includes an input device, a display device, a processor, and a memory device. The memory device stores instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the gaming system to receive a wager for playing a wagering game having an overall volatility. A plurality of volatility components are displayed on the display device, the volatility components having respective component ratings. Each component rating contributes to a total rating of the overall volatility. The wagering game is selected from a plurality of wagering games, each of the plurality of wagering games having (a) the same total rating and (b) at least one different component rating. | 10-17-2013 |
20130273997 | SYSTEMS, METHODS AND DEVICES FOR PLAYING WAGERING GAMES WITH PLAYER-CONTROLLED VOLATILITY-CHANGING MECHANISMS - Gaming devices, gaming systems, methods of conducting wagering games, and computer programs for executing wagering games are disclosed. A gaming system for conducting a wagering game is disclosed which includes memory device(s) which stores instructions which cause processor(s) to operate with display device(s) and input device(s) to: receive a wager to play the wagering game, which includes numerous symbol-bearing reels; display various player-selectable volatility-changing reel modifiers, each of which is associated with one of the symbol-bearing reels and configured to modify the volatility of the subsequent play of the wagering game in a distinct manner; receive a player's selection from the displayed volatility-changing reel modifiers; modify the volatility of the subsequent play of the wagering game in the manner associated with the selected volatility-changing reel modifier; display a randomly determined outcome of the subsequent play of the wagering game; and, determine if the subsequent-play outcome includes any winning symbol combinations. | 10-17-2013 |
20130267317 | CONTROLLING THREE-DIMENSIONAL PRESENTATION OF WAGERING GAME CONTENT - Some embodiments of the inventive subject matter are directed to presenting wagering game content in stereoscopic 3D according to an optimal autostereoscopic view for an autostereoscopic display based on a viewing perspective of a player when the player views the wagering game content. Some embodiments are also directed to determining that the player looks away from the wagering game content and maintaining, or freezing, presentation of wagering game content in 3D according to the optimal autostereoscopic view. Some embodiments are directed to updating the optimal autostereoscopic view based on changes to the viewing perspective while the player looks away from the wagering game content. Some embodiment are also directed to changing the presentation of the wagering game content to 2D, and restoring the one or more portions to 3D based on a degree of player attentiveness after the player looks at the wagering game content again. | 10-10-2013 |
20130267312 | ORDERED LOADING OF WAGERING GAME ASSETS INTO MEMORY - A method includes determining a load order for loading game assets into a cache memory of a wagering game machine, wherein the game assets comprise data used for presentation of a wagering game at the wagering game machine. The game assets are accessible by a processor in the wagering game machine from the cache memory for presentation of the wagering game, wherein the load order is based on wagering game activity at the wagering game machine. The method includes loading the game assets into the cache memory based on the load order. The method includes accessing, by a processor in the wagering game machine, the game assets from the cache memory. The method also includes presenting, on at least one display device, the wagering game based on the game assets. | 10-10-2013 |
20130260882 | INFRARED DISPLAYS FOR HUMAN INTERFACES VIEWABLE BY CAMERA - Gaming-related displays present text and graphics viewable with a special visual aid, e.g., a camera phone. The visual aid provides an interface allowing the player to interact with, and be engaged by, the gaming machine and the gaming environment. The text and graphics shown on the visual aid may provide information that adds to the player's experience. For example, a gaming system includes a gaming terminal for a wagering game. The gaming terminal includes a light-emitting area emitting a predetermined pattern of invisible light having wavelengths outside the visible electromagnetic spectrum. The gaming system also includes a visual aid including a sensor and a visual aid display. The visual aid detects, with the sensor, the pattern of invisible light, converts the pattern of invisible light into a pattern of visible light having wavelengths inside the visible electromagnetic spectrum, and displays the pattern of visible light on the visual aid display. | 10-03-2013 |
20130260864 | Wagering Game Having Free Spin Feature With Variable Quantities Of Reel Arrays - A gaming system for conducting a wagering game includes at least one input device, at least one display device, at least one processor, and at least one memory device storing instructions. The instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the gaming system to receive a wager for playing the wagering game, and trigger a free-spin event in which a plurality of free spins is awarded. For a first spin, a first number of arrays is randomly determined, displayed, and evaluated to determine whether an award condition is present. For a second spin, a second number of arrays is randomly determined, displayed, and evaluated to determine whether an award condition is present. The second number of arrays is non-equal to the first number of arrays. Any awards associated with each determined award condition are provided. | 10-03-2013 |
20130260861 | SYSTEMS, METHODS AND DEVICES FOR PLAYING WAGERING GAMES WITH DISTRIBUTED AND SHARED PARTIAL OUTCOME FEATURES - Gaming devices, gaming systems, methods of conducting wagering games, and computer programs for executing wagering games are disclosed. A gaming system for playing a wagering game is disclosed which includes at least one memory device which stores instructions that cause at least one processor to operate with at least one display device and at least one input device to: display a randomly determined partial outcome of the wagering game to a first player; transmit the randomly determined partial outcome to at least one second player; randomly determine a first final outcome of the wagering game for the first player; randomly determine a second final outcome of the wagering game for the second player(s), both of the first and second final outcomes including the partial outcome; and, if at least one of the final outcomes is a winning outcome, award an award associated with the winning outcome. | 10-03-2013 |
20130252714 | ACCOUNT-BASED-WAGERING MOBILE CONTROLLER - A wagering game system and its operations are described herein. In some embodiments, the operations can include detecting, wirelessly, an identifier associated with a portable wireless device. In some embodiments, the identifier is assigned to a wagering game player account. The operations can further include initiating a wagering game session for the wagering game player account, via a wagering game machine, in response to detecting the identifier. The operations can further include detecting, wirelessly, a use of the portable wireless device in response to player input via the portable wireless device and, based on the use of the portable wireless device, authorizing initiation of the wagering game session and/or performing one or more activities via a wagering game application during the wagering game session. | 09-26-2013 |
20130252708 | Gaming Machine Having An Enhanced Game Play Scheme - A gaming machine having an enhanced game play scheme is provided where, in response to receipt of a second wager to select an option, a player is provided with enhanced game play. Enhanced game play may include (1) providing more frequent bonus game play, (2) providing a larger bonus game value payout, (3) providing more frequent bonus game play and providing a larger bonus game value payout, (4) providing a larger or multiplied game value payout, (5) providing a guaranteed value payout for a non-winning outcome, (6) providing game features (7) providing a larger game value payout based on a partial game outcome, (8) providing an extra wild symbol capable of repositioning, and (9) providing a possibility of an additional reel movement to reposition an extra reel symbol or (10) providing a possibility of an extra pay line to include an extra reel symbol to increase a value payout. | 09-26-2013 |
20130252699 | WAGERING GAME HAVING MOVING EVALUATION WINDOW WITHIN SYMBOL ARRAY - A method for conducting a wagering game includes receiving a wager and displaying a plurality of symbol-bearing reels. A first set of reels to be evaluated is highlight, spun, and stopped such that a first randomly selected outcome is indicated. The first outcome is evaluated to determine if it is a winning outcome. In response to a winning outcome, a second set of reels to be evaluated is highlighted. The second set of reels includes at least one of the reels of the first set of reels and one of the reels that is adjacent to the first set of reels. The one of the reels that is adjacent to the first set of reels is stopped such that a second randomly selected outcome is indicated by the second set of reels. The second outcome is evaluated to determine if the second outcome is a winning outcome. | 09-26-2013 |
20130244778 | INTEGRATING CHAT AND WAGERING GAMES - A wagering game system and its operations are described herein. In some embodiments, the operations can include providing a social communications interface (e.g., a chat interface) for presentation via a wagering game session. The wagering game session is associated with a wagering game player account. The operations can further include selecting, in response to user input via the social communications interface, a representation of a social contact of the wagering game player account. The user input indicates a request to follow social communications made by the social contact, which social communications are not directly addressed to the wagering game player account. The operations can further include providing, for presentation via the social communications interface, the social communications made by the social contact. | 09-19-2013 |
20130244777 | LAYOUT ELEMENTS AS RENDERING PLACEHOLDERS FOR NATIVE WAGERING GAME APPLICATIONS - A wagering game machine configured to present a wagering game upon which monetary value may be wagered receives a layout description for a first set of image components defines one or more placeholder areas. A first executable component renders a portion of the first set of image components in accordance with the layout description. A natively executed wagering game application renders a second set of image components defined independently from the layout description within the placeholder areas. The first executable component renders a second portion of the first set of images over the images rendered by the natively executed wagering game application. | 09-19-2013 |
20130244772 | REMOTE LOGIN FOR A WAGERING GAME MACHINE - A method includes receiving a login request to an account at a wagering game machine. In response to the login request, the method includes displaying a security token on a display of the wagering game machine. Also in response to the login request, the method includes transmitting the security token to a server, wherein the server is communicatively coupled to the wagering game machine and a mobile device. Also in response to the login request, the method includes receiving, back from the server and at the wagering game machine, authorization for login to the account at the wagering machine, wherein the authorization is based on an earlier login to the account from the mobile device using the login credentials. After receiving the authorization, the method includes logging into the account at the wagering game machine, wherein the logging occurs without inputting of the login credentials at the wagering game machine. | 09-19-2013 |
20130244767 | CONTROLLING AND PRESENTING VIRTUAL WAGERING GAME ENVIRONMENTS - A wagering game system and its operations are described herein. In embodiments, the operations can include providing a virtual wagering game machine for presentation in a virtual wagering game environment and determining an indication, associated with a user account, to purchase one or more rights to control one or more features of the virtual wagering game machine. The operations can further include detecting payment of a purchase value from the user account, and granting the one or more rights to control the one or more features of the virtual wagering game machine to the user account in response to detecting the payment of the purchase value. | 09-19-2013 |
20130244766 | Progressive Wagering Game With Personalized Reset-Value Feature For Players Meeting Predetermined Criteria - A gaming system includes a plurality of gaming terminals for playing wagering games that provide access to a progressive game having multiple progressive jackpots. Each progressive jackpot has a base reset value that increases in response to wager inputs. The gaming system comprises at least one controller operative to determine that a first player at a first gaming terminal has achieved a predetermined criteria, and to provide an award associated with one of the multiple progressive jackpots to a second player at a second gaming terminal who triggered the awarded jackpot. The controller maintains the value of the awarded progressive jackpot for the first player who achieved the predetermined criteria at the awarded value, but resets the awarded progressive jackpot to the lower base reset value for other gaming terminals. Thus, the first player benefits from a potentially higher jackpot award value due to achieving the predetermined criteria. | 09-19-2013 |
20130244761 | PRESENTING WAGERING GAME CONTENT IN MULTIPLE WINDOWS - In some embodiments, a method including determining a first wagering game content and a second wagering game content, wherein the first wagering game content is related to a first wagering game, and wherein the second wagering game content is related to a second wagering game. The method can also include determining, based on priority rules, a first display priority for the first wagering game content, and a second display priority for the second wagering game content. The method can also include presenting, based on the first display priority, the first wagering game content. The method can also include presenting, based on the second display priority, the second wagering game content after the presenting of the first wagering game content, and detecting player inputs. The method can also include assigning priority values to the player inputs, and responding to the player inputs in an order related to the priority values. | 09-19-2013 |
20130244743 | INTEGRATING CHAT AND WAGERING GAMES - A wagering game system and its operations are described herein. In some embodiments, the operations can include connecting a wagering game to a chat session and receiving a textual game command for the wagering game from a chat message sent via the chat session. The operations can further include activating a wagering game function for the wagering game in response to receiving the textual game command via the chat message. | 09-19-2013 |
20130237324 | Wagering Game With Community Event In Which Individual Enhancements Are Awarded - A computer-implemented method is conducted in a gaming system including a plurality of gaming terminals that participate in a community event. The method includes providing, by at least one of one or more processors, individual enhancements at one or more of the plurality of gaming terminals. Each of the individual enhancements has an initial value prior to the community event being triggered. If the initial value exceeds a predetermined value upon the community event being triggered, the initial value is modified to a modified value based on the initial value. The modified value is awarded upon the community event being triggered. | 09-12-2013 |
20130225298 | ONLINE PRESENCE FOR A WAGERING GAME MACHINE - A computer-implemented method includes creating, by at least one processor, an online presence for a wagering game machine. The method also includes publishing wagering game activity that has occurred at the wagering game machine to the online presence for the wagering game machine. | 08-29-2013 |
20130225281 | COORDINATING ACCESS TO WAGERING GAME MACHINE WINDOWS - Systems and methods coordinate requests to display content on one or more windows of a display screen of a wagering game machine. A display control process determines whether or not to honor a request to display content in accordance with an owner status of a window, a lock status of the window, a lock status of the wagering game machine, or a combination thereof. | 08-29-2013 |
20130225273 | MANAGING LIMITATION RULES FOR WAGERING ACCOUNTS - A wagering game account management system and its operations are described herein. In some embodiments, the operations include assigning one or more money values to a graphical user interface control and linking the graphical user interface control to a credit account. The credit account is a third-party financial account from which a player account is authorized to borrow funds up to a credit limit. In some embodiments, the operations further include providing the graphical user interface control for presentation during a wagering game session associated with the player account. | 08-29-2013 |
20130217505 | COMMUNITY GAME HAVING ONLINE AND LAND-BASED GAME PLAY - A method includes presenting a community game that includes land-based game play and online game play. The method includes selecting either the land-based or online game play as an affected game play, wherein the affected game play is to have at least one result in the community game that is affected by the other game play that was not selected. In response to a determination that a generation of the at least one result is needed for the affected game play for the community game, the method includes receiving, from the other game play, a result from a game. Also in response to the determination, the method includes affecting of the at least one result of the community game for the affected game play based on the result of the game at the other game play. | 08-22-2013 |
20130217478 | MESSAGING TO AND FROM WAGERING GAME MACHINES - A method includes receiving, at a host gaming server, notifications of account logins from a number of wagering game machines from at least one wagering game establishment. The method includes receiving, at the host gaming server, messages from multiple messaging sources that comprise at least one of a social networking website, a microblogging website, and at least some of the number of wagering game machines, wherein the messages comprise messages related to activity at the at least one wagering game establishment that include game play at the number of wagering game machines and messages related to activity external to the at least one wagering game establishment. The method includes aggregating, by the host gaming server, the messages from the multiple messaging sources. The method includes filtering, by the host gaming server, the messages for each of the account logins to create filtered messages. | 08-22-2013 |
20130217477 | COMMUNITY GAME WITH PLAYER-CONFIGURABLE PARAMETERS - A method includes receiving wagers from a player to play respective plays of a plurality of plays of a wagering game having event eligibility that includes a time value and a multiplier value. The method includes increasing at least one of the time value and the multiplier value as a function of the plurality of plays of the wagering game and decrementing the time value as time elapses. In response to a triggering event while the event eligibility is above an eligibility threshold, the method includes allowing the player to participate in one or more special events. The method includes allowing the player to configure at least one of a desired value of the multiplier value and a maximum value of the time value. | 08-22-2013 |
20130217465 | WAGERING GAME WITH MOVING SYMBOL ARRAYS - A gaming system for conducting a wagering game includes an input device, a display device, a processor, and a memory device for storing instructions that cause the processor to operate the gaming system. The gaming system receives an input to play the wagering game and randomly determines a plurality of symbols to populate symbol positions in one or more symbol arrays. The gaming system displays dynamic content in the symbol positions concluding with the randomly determined symbols while the one or more symbol arrays are moved with respect to an indicator region. The gaming system displays an indication of an outcome of the wagering game determined based on any of the one or more symbol arrays appearing in the indicator region after the one or more symbol arrays are moved. | 08-22-2013 |
20130210518 | SELECTIVE FILTERING OF FEED PUBLICATION OF WAGERING GAME ACTIVITY - A method comprises receiving a feed of a number of messages providing notification of wagering game activity, wherein the wagering game activity occurred via at least one of a wagering game machine at a wagering game establishment and an online wagering game website. The method includes storing the number of messages. The method includes filtering the number of messages to create a subset of messages, wherein the filtering is based on at least one of an operator criteria and a player criteria. The operator criteria and the player criteria comprises at least one of a jackpot win, a progressive win, an entry into a bonus round, and a win where a monetary amount won exceeds a threshold multiplier of an amount wagered. The method includes publishing the subset of messages to a computing device associated with the wagering game player. | 08-15-2013 |
20130210517 | MOBILE-PHONE-BASED WAGERING GAME ACCOUNT TRANSACTIONS - In some embodiments a method includes receiving, from a mobile phone, a request to transfer a first fund amount from a player account to a wagering game machine. The method can also include determining that the player account does not include the first fund amount; receiving a second fund amount from a secondary funding source, and augmenting the player account by the second fund amount, wherein the augmenting results in the player account including the first fund amount. The method can also include transferring the first fund amount from the player account to the wagering game machine; debiting the player account by the first fund amount. | 08-15-2013 |
20130203498 | WAGER GAMING NETWORK WITH WIRELESS HOTSPOTS - Embodiments of a wager gaming network that includes handheld wager gaming units and hotspots are described herein. In one embodiment, a method includes receiving, in a handheld wager gaming unit, a wager associated with a wagering game. The method can also include wirelessly connecting the handheld wager gaming unit to a wireless access point in a wager gaming network. The method can also include transmitting, via the wireless access point, information from the handheld wager gaming unit to a device on the wager gaming network. | 08-08-2013 |
20130203481 | DYNAMIC CONFIGURATION OF WAGERING GAMES - A wagering game system and its operations are described herein. In some embodiments, the operations can include obtaining a mathematical expression(s) from a configuration file associated with a wagering game. The mathematical expression(s) include elements that represent game-related parameters of the one or more wagering games. In some embodiments, the operations further comprise converting the mathematical expression(s) to a programming code expression(s) equivalent to the mathematical expression(s) in response to detection of user-input to configure the wagering game for use via a wagering game machine. In some embodiments, the operations further comprise evaluating the programming code expression(s) using values for the one or more game-related parameters, and configuring the one or more wagering games based on evaluation of the programming code expression(s) using the values for the one or more game-related parameters. | 08-08-2013 |
20130203479 | WAGERING GAME WITH MULTIPLE OVERLYING REEL STRIPS FOR TRIGGERING EVENTS OR OUTCOMES - A method is provided for enabling a portal game on a wagering game device, the method including the acts of using a processor operatively associated with the wagering game device to conduct a wagering game on the wagering game device in accord with a first math model and using a portal game controller, which may be the processor operatively associated with the wagering game device or a separate controller operatively associated with both the portal game and the wagering game device, to overlay a portal game over the wagering game, the portal game having a second math model that is mathematically independent from the first math model of the wagering game. | 08-08-2013 |
20130196750 | TRANSFERRING AWARDS VIA OPTICAL MACHINE READABLE DATA REPRESENTATION IMAGES - Club cards and tickets can be eliminated by providing an application that allows a player's mobile phone to process an image of an optical machine-readable representation of data. At the end of a wagering session on a WGM, the WGM can display a barcode representing a player's winnings, an achievement, game status, etc. The player takes a picture of the barcode with his or her mobile phone. The application on the phone processes the barcode image and automatically updates an account of the player in accordance with the data represented or carried by the barcode. For instance, the mobile phone sends a request to a wagering account server to electronically deposit the winnings, as represented by the barcode, in a wagering account associated with the player's club profile. | 08-01-2013 |
20130196744 | ADAPTER FOR LOYALTY PROGRAM POINTS - An adapter for wagering game systems designed to communicate using a first protocol is provided that communicates with systems designed to communicate using a second protocol different from the first protocol. The adapter may provide a translation service that translates from the first protocol to the second protocol and vice-versa. Additionally, the adapter may provide a transaction clearing house service. The translation and transaction clearing house services provided by the adapter can be used to access disparate systems using disparate protocols. For example, a wagering game system that is designed to communicate with other wagering game systems using a first protocol can use the adapter to access loyalty points systems and other systems that are designed to use a second communications protocol. | 08-01-2013 |
20130196743 | Wagering Game System with Pausing Feature - A gaming system includes one or more controllers and one or more memory devices storing instructions that, when executed by at least one of the one or more controllers, cause the gaming system to initiate a wagering game to be played via a gaming machine and in response to a pause event, temporarily pause the wagering game-in-progress, prior to revealing a final outcome of the wagering game. While the game-in-progress is paused, the one or more controllers allow the gaming machine to participate in a community event along with a plurality of other gaming machines and in response to an end-pause event associated with the community event, reinstate the paused game-in-progress at the gaming machine. | 08-01-2013 |
20130190080 | JURISDICTIONAL CONTROL IN A WAGERING GAME SYSTEM PLUGIN ARCHITECTURE - A wagering game system and operations for a wagering game system include a plugin architecture and framework in which wagering game system applications utilize plugins to provide functionality for an application or service. The plugins may be independently tested and verified by a jurisdictional testing agent to confirm that the operation of the plugin complies with the rules and regulations for a jurisdiction. If plugins are added or updated, a system vendor may submit only those plugins that require jurisdictional approval to a testing agent. An application or service may download plugins that are approved for use in the jurisdiction in which the application or service is operating. | 07-25-2013 |
20130190077 | PLAYER WAGERING ACCOUNT AND METHODS THEREOF - A system for adding funds to a handheld gaming machine. The system includes a portable digital wallet that wirelessly communicates with a handheld gaming machine (“handheld”). The digital wallet stores an amount of funds or funds associated with a remotely stored player account, and is used by the player to add credits to a handheld. The credit meter may be stored remotely, though the player perceives that the funds are actually being transferred via the digital wallet. Other funding techniques include a kiosk that accepts cash or credit/debit cards and dispenses tickets or other media that encodes information representing an amount of funds. The player uses this media to add credits to the handheld. The media may be player-dependent such that the player's identity is somehow linked to the media or it may be player-agnostic such that the player's identity is not linked to the funds associated with the media. | 07-25-2013 |
20130184078 | POSITION-BASED LIGHTING COORDINATION IN WAGERING GAME SYSTEMS - A wagering game system and its operations are described herein. In some embodiments, the operations can include detecting an indication to initiate a lighting presentation on a wagering game machine of a bank of wagering game machines. The operations can also include determining a position offset associated with the wagering game machine based, at least in part, on a position of the wagering game machine within the bank of wagering game machines relative to a reference wagering game machine of the bank of wagering game machines. The operations can further include determining a position-based time delay for initiating the lighting presentation on the wagering game machine based, at least in part, on the position offset associated with the wagering game machine, and initiating the lighting presentation on the wagering game machine after the position-based time delay associated with the wagering game machine. | 07-18-2013 |
20130184064 | INTEGRATING THREE-DIMENSIONAL ELEMENTS INTO GAMING ENVIRONMENTS - In some embodiments, the operations can include detecting a first indication to toggle a presentation of wagering game content from a two-dimensional mode to a three-dimensional mode and toggling the three-dimensional mode in response to detecting the first indication. In some embodiments, the operations can further include automatically toggling the presentation of the wagering game content back to the two-dimensional mode in response to detecting a second indication. In some embodiments, the operations can further include detecting a condition that specifies a degree of three-dimensional presentation to enable for the three-dimensional mode and presenting the wagering game content with the degree of three-dimensional presentation. In some embodiments, the operations can further include detecting a change to the condition and automatically adjusting the degree of the three-dimensional presentation based on the change to the condition. | 07-18-2013 |
20130184063 | MASH-UP WAGERING GAME CREATION - A wagering game developer can provide an online wagering game community, and receive continuous and current feedback about wagering games. The wagering game developer can use the online wagering game community to gauge popularity of wagering games, demonstrate wagering games, test wagering games, estimate wagering game life cycles, etc. Moreover, the wagering game developer can use the creativity of community members to modify and, perhaps, develop wagering games. The wagering game developer can decompose different aspects of a wagering game into executable code units that are platform independent, re-usable, and/or configurable (“wagering game widgets”). Users combine wagering game widgets, whether derived from a wagering game or user generated, to create a wagering game for playing in the online wagering game community. Wagering game developers can reward users who create the most popular wagering games, and develop proper versions of these user-created wagering games for deployment in wagering game establishments. | 07-18-2013 |
20130184062 | INTEGRATING SOCIAL COMMUNITIES AND WAGERING GAMES - A wagering game system and its operations are described herein. In some examples, the operations include detecting a side wager placed by a social network user accounts connected to a communal wagering game, detecting that a jurisdictional rule prohibits a characteristic of the side wager, and altering the characteristic of the side wager to comport with the jurisdictional rule. In some examples, the operations can further include determining a request by a first of the social network user accounts to transact an exchange of one or more non-cash items associated with the communal wagering game with a second of the social network user accounts, and transacting the exchange. | 07-18-2013 |
20130184056 | GAMING SYSTEM HAVING RE-AWARDING OF STORED AWARDS - A gaming system for conducting a wagering game includes a wager input device for receiving a wager to play a wagering game, at least one display for displaying the wagering game, and at least one controller. The controller is operative to display a first outcome of the wagering game and award a first award associated with the first outcome, store the first award in a stored awards group, cause the at least one display to display the stored awards group, and re-award one or more awards in the stored awards group upon the occurrence of a triggering event. | 07-18-2013 |
20130178271 | DYNAMICALLY OVERLAYING WAGERING GAME CONTENT - A wagering game system and its operations are described herein. In some embodiments, the operations can include presenting primary wagering game content, during a wagering game session, in an area of a display assigned to a primary wagering game application. The operations can further include detecting player input that indicates activation of a secondary wagering game application during the wagering game session and superimposing a portion of the secondary wagering game content over the primary wagering game content in the first area of the display in response to the player input. The operations can further include generating an outcome value for a playing turn of the secondary wagering game application in response to the player input, and presenting the outcome value for the secondary wagering game application via the portion of the secondary wagering game content. | 07-11-2013 |
20130172075 | WAGERING GAME ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM - A wagering game account management system and its operations are described herein. In embodiments, the operations include detecting an account rule, wherein the account rule includes an activation event, wherein upon occurrence of the activation event a transfer of funds is initiates between a wagering game session and account and one or more other financial accounts. In some embodiments, the operations also include detecting the occurrence of the activation event. In some embodiments, the operations also include initiating the transfer of funds between the wagering game session account and one or more other financial accounts. | 07-04-2013 |
20130165216 | WAGERING GAME SYSTEM WITH DOCKING STATIONS - This description describes wagering game systems that include docking stations. In one embodiment, the apparatus includes a presentation unit configured to present a wagering game and a docking controller configured to detect when the apparatus is docked with a docking station and to detect when the apparatus is undocked from the docking station. The apparatus can also include a docking port, the docking port including at least one of a dock power unit configured to receive power via the docking station and a dock communication unit configured to receive wagering game content associated with the wagering game, the dock communication unit configured to receive the wagering game content when the apparatus is docked with the docking station. The apparatus can also include a wireless communication unit configured to receive the wagering game content when the docking controller when the apparatus is undocked from the docking station. | 06-27-2013 |
20130165215 | MULTI-PLAYER, MULTI-TOUCH TABLE FOR USE IN WAGERING GAME SYSTEMS - A multi-player gaming system sensing multiple simultaneous contacts on a surface of a gaming table, differentiating contacts by different players. Privacy controls selectively display private information visible to only one of the players on or near the display surface of the gaming table. The gaming system also detects physical objects placed on the surface of the gaming table, causing wagering game functions or peripheral functions to be performed as a result of the placement of the object on the display surface. | 06-27-2013 |
20130165206 | NEWS TICKER AS GAME DISPLAY MECHANISM - Systems and methods provide a game of chance based using information stream items such as items in a news ticker. Information stream items are received for display in a series of information stream items such as a news ticker. Game symbols are assigned to the information stream items based on the output of a random number generator. In response to determining that the game symbols assigned to the series of information stream items form a winning combination of game symbols, an account may be credited with cash or points. | 06-27-2013 |
20130165205 | INTEGRATING THREE-DIMENSIONAL AND TWO-DIMENSIONAL GAMING ELEMENTS - A wagering game system and its operations are described herein. In some embodiments, the operations include detecting a request to present a wagering game object via a display device capable of stereoscopic, three-dimensional visual effects. In some embodiments, the wagering game object is one of a plurality of wagering game objects. In some embodiments, the operations further include determining a virtual three-dimensional depth value based on one a degree of significance assigned to the wagering game object. The operations can further include presenting the wagering game object via the display device with a degree of three-dimensional stereoscopic depth effect that corresponds to the virtual three-dimensional depth value. | 06-27-2013 |
20130157751 | GAMING DEVICES AND GAMING SYSTEMS WITH MULTIPLE DISPLAY DEVICE ARRANGEMENT - Gaming systems, gaming terminals, and multi-display arrangements for a wagering game terminal are presented herein. A gaming system for conducting a wagering game is disclosed which includes at least one input device, at least one processor, first and second electronic display devices, and an electronic display-transition device. The first and second electronic display devices are mounted in side-by-side, non-coplanar relationship and spaced a gap apart from each other. Each of the display devices is configured to dynamically display aspects of the wagering game. The electronic display-transition device extends across the gap from the first electronic display device to the second electronic display device. The electronic display-transition device is also configured to dynamically display aspects of the wagering game. The electronic display-transition device can have a curvilinear cross-sectional profile and/or a flexible display screen. | 06-20-2013 |