TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates broadly to a gaming apparatus.

BACKGROUND

For current gaming machines and apparati, the inventors have recognised that players are using smaller inputs to play games. This may have arisen from a desire to prolong game play with more smaller inputs to play with. In addition, with increasing difficulties in games, the inventors have recognised a new problem that players increasingly end playing games relatively fast or early in the games.

The above problems typically cause players to have reduced levels of entertainment and enjoyment of the games. Some available solutions include providing additional feature or side or bonus games coupled to main games to prolong the players’ game time at the gaming machines. That is, a player may play free games due to a side/feature game. Typically, once the side/feature game ends, the player is returned to the main game of the gaming machine. It has been recognised by the inventors that the excitement or entertainment provided by such a side/feature game is relatively limiting.

In addition, it has been recognised by the inventors that such side games are typically similar in execution to the main games in that the players also end playing the side games relatively fast or early when the players enter into playing the side games.

In view of the above, there exists a need for a gaming apparatus that seeks to address at least one of the above problems. SUMMARY

In accordance with a first aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a gaming apparatus, the gaming apparatus comprising a random number generator arranged for output of a game output result; a processing module configured to implement a main game process, the processing module further configured to monitor for a first process trigger within the main game process; wherein upon detection of the first process trigger, the processing module is configured to implement a first triggered process and the processing module is further configured to monitor for a cascading process trigger within the first triggered process; wherein upon detection of the cascading process trigger, the processing module is configured to implement a cascading triggered process, the cascading triggered process cascading from the first triggered process; the processing module is configured to determine whether the cascading triggered process has ended, and wherein if it is determined that the cascading triggered process has ended, the processing module returns to continue implementation of the first triggered process.

The processing module may be configured to determine whether the first triggered process has ended, and wherein if it is determined that the first triggered process has ended, the processing module returns to continue implementation of the main game process.

The processing module may be configured to access one or more first triggered process instructions upon detection of the first process trigger.

The one or more first triggered process instructions may comprise an instruction to the processing module to award a deposit amount of an input entity usable as an input to participate in the first triggered process.

The first process trigger may be based on a main game process output result.

The cascading process trigger may be based on a first triggered process output result. The gaming apparatus may further comprise a display member coupled to the processing module, the display member being configured to display at least one of the main game process, the first triggered process and the cascading triggered process.

The display member may be configured to display the first triggered process overlapping with the cascading triggered process on a same screen display.

The processing module may be configured to award a game credits win value, a game points win value or both for at least one of the main game process, the first triggered process and the cascading triggered process.

A win value associated with the cascading triggered process may be usable to participate in the main game process.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure will be better understood and readily apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art from the following written description, by way of example only, and in conjunction with the drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 A is a schematic front view diagram of a front panel of a gaming apparatus/machine in an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 1 B is a schematic front view diagram of the gaming apparatus/machine with the front panel opened in part from the gaming machine in the exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 2 is a schematic block diagram illustrating a gaming machine/apparatus in an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 3 is a schematic flowchart illustrating a gaming process implementing a cascading process trigger in an exemplary embodiment. FIG. 4A is a schematic drawing illustrating a screenshot of an example game process in an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 4B is a schematic drawing illustrating a screenshot of an example triggered process in an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 5 is a schematic flowchart illustrating a gaming process implementing a cascading process trigger in another exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 6A is a schematic drawing illustrating a screenshot of an example game process in another exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 6B is a schematic drawing illustrating a screenshot of an example triggered process in the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 6A.

FIG. 7 is a schematic flowchart for illustrating a gaming process implementing a cascading process trigger in an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram illustrating a plurality of gaming apparati in a network in an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 9 shows a schematic drawing of a game system according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 10 is a schematic drawing of a computer system suitable for implementing an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 1 1 is a schematic drawing of a wireless communication device suitable for implementing an exemplary embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In an exemplary embodiment, a gaming apparatus may be provided that changes its state based on one or more process triggers. A processing module of the gaming apparatus may be configured to implement a main game process and to monitor/detect for a first process trigger within the main game process. Upon detection of the first process trigger, the processing module may be configured to implement a first triggered process and the processing module may monitor/detect for a cascading process trigger within the first triggered process. Upon detection of the cascading process trigger, the processing module may be configured to implement a cascading triggered process with the cascading triggered process cascading from the first triggered process. Thus, there may be provided two process triggers with a second/secondary triggered process (the cascading triggered process) cascading from the first triggered process (itself being triggered from the main game process). In the exemplary embodiment, the processing module may determine whether the cascading triggered process has ended and if it is determined that the cascading triggered process has ended, the processing module returns to continue implementation of the first triggered process. That is, a user/player may still enjoy play of the first triggered process (e.g. a next turn of the first triggered process) and also, a possibility of entering or cascading into the cascading triggered process again.

In the exemplary embodiment, the processing module may be configured to determine whether the first triggered process has ended and if it is determined that the first triggered process has ended, the processing module returns to continue implementation of the main game process. As such, it is possible for the user/player to experience play within the first triggered process and/or the cascading triggered process for an extended period of time before returning to e.g. a next turn of the main game process. It is also possible for the user/player to enter the first triggered process again from the main game process.

In the exemplary embodiment, the processing module may be configured to access one or more first triggered process instructions upon detection of the first process trigger. The one or more first triggered process instructions may comprise an instruction to the processing module to award a deposit amount of an input entity usable as an input to participate in the first triggered process. As such, play within the first triggered process may not incur game credits or game points that are otherwise awarded from e.g. the main game process.

In the exemplary embodiment, the first process trigger may be based on a main game process output result or may be random. The cascading process trigger may be based on a first triggered process output result or may be random.

In the exemplary embodiment, the gaming apparatus may further comprise a display member coupled to the processing module, the display member being configured to display at least one of the main game process, the first triggered process and the cascading triggered process. The display member may be configured to display the first triggered process overlapping with the cascading triggered process on a same screen display.

In the exemplary embodiment, the processing module may award a game credits win value, a game points win value or both for at least one of the main game process, the first triggered process and the cascading triggered process. For example, one or two or all of the main game process, the first triggered process and the cascading triggered process may provide game credits winnings or have a game credits win value awarded in the respective processes.

In the exemplary embodiment, a win value associated with the cascading triggered process may be usable to participate in the main game process. For example, game credits awarded from the cascading triggered process may be those that are usable for use to participate in the main game process as a player input.

In exemplary embodiments herein, a RNG (Random Number Generator) may be used for RNG processes. A RNG may provide randomly generated numbers from which, for example, the outcomes of games are based upon. For example, the randomly generated numbers may be matched to a list of pre-determined numbers to determine whether the randomly generated numbers are a match. For example, if there is a match, a successful outcome is provided. The RNG is preferably independent of external factors. The RNG may generate random numbers without any input or preferably, with a preceding/previous random number as an input to generate a subsequent random number. In an example implementation, the RNG may be in the form of a crystal oscillator that instructs a number generator processor to periodically generate new random numbers. If there is a seed (or preceding/previous random number) available, the number generator may use that seed as an input for the number generation.

FIG. 1 A is a schematic front view diagram of a front panel of a gaming apparatus/machine in an exemplary embodiment. The gaming machine 100 comprises a front panel 101 that in turn comprises a top screen 102, a main screen 104, a player transactions panel 106 and a player interaction panel 108. The gaming machine 100 may optionally comprise a printer outlet 1 10, a tower light 1 12 and a poster display portion 1 14. The gaming machine 100 allows a player to play one or more games installed or network- implemented by the gaming machine 100.

In the exemplary embodiment, the top screen 102 may be used to display game celebrations, promotional/advertising information or other information that is typically not primarily related to progression of the games of the gaming machine. The main screen 104 is used to display the games of the gaming machine 100, for the player’s attention. Typically, the main screen 104 is the screen that the player focuses on for playing the games.

In the exemplary embodiment, the player transactions panel 106 is provided for the player to transact with the gaming machine 100. The term“transactions” is taken to mean extraction of remaining credits/points that the player possesses or insertion of credits/points that the player possesses, for example, in a magnetic identification card or a radio frequency identification (RFID) card or any stored-value card. The term should not be limited to monetary transactions. The player transactions panel 106 comprises a liquid crystal display (LCD) information screen 1 16 and a card insert slot 1 18. The card insert slot 1 18 is used for receiving, in the case of a card insert slot, an identification card containing the credits/points and/or identification belonging to the player. The credits/points may be extracted from the card into the gaming machine 100 for playing the games installed in the gaming machine 100. Upon the player deciding to end play at the gaming machine 100, the player transactions panel 106 may store the latest/updated credits/points information in the stored- value card. For exemplary embodiments relating to using player identification cards, the player transactions panel 106 may retrieve credits/points information of the player from an external server or database based on player identification. The retrieved information may then be used at the gaming machine 100 for playing the games. For such embodiments, upon the player deciding to end play at the gaming machine 100, the player transactions panel 106 may transmit the latest/updated credits/points information to be stored on the external server or database based on the player identification. It will be appreciated that the card insert slot 1 18 may be in other forms depending on the type of identification card used by the player. For example, if the player is using a RFID card, the transactions module 1 18 may be a RFID reader/writer. The LCD information screen 1 16 is used to display e.g. the credits/points information contained in the card.

The player interaction panel 108 comprises push buttons e.g. 120 provided to allow the player to actuate the buttons e.g. 120 for interacting with the games being played on the gaming machine 100. For example, the player may use the buttons e.g. 120 to make player selections being displayed on the main screen 104. For example, the player may use the buttons e.g. 120 to make a player input. In an alternative embodiment, the push buttons e.g. 120 may be replaced by a touch-sensitive screen that corresponds to the display on the main screen 104 to allow the player to interact with the games using touch commands. This may be in the form of a touch sensitive membrane with switch panels each corresponding to a display position of a display on the main screen 104.

A bill validator 122 may be provided for a player to use paper money to buy points for playing the games of the gaming machine 100. This is similar to, for example, using paper money at a vending machine to buy drinks/food.

It will be appreciated that although a card-in (using the card insert slot 1 18) and bill-in (using the bill validator 122) has been discussed above, the gaming machine is not limited as such and may comprise mechanisms to allow coin-in, key-in, ticket-in etc. for playing the games in the gaming machine.

It will be appreciated that the main screen 104 may be in the form of a touch- sensitive screen that may complement or replace the player interaction panel 108. The touch-sensitive screen may be a capacitive-type sensing screen, pressure-type sensing screen or the like. That is, the main screen 104 may be a touch-sensitive screen that allows the player to interact with the gaming machine 100 using touch commands. For example, the player may use touch commands to make a player input.

In the exemplary embodiment, the printer outlet 1 10 may be provided for the gaming machine 100 to output information in printed form to the player. For example, the gaming machine 100 may print a sticker for the player. The gaming machine 100 may also print a receipt or record of the points transaction for the player. The tower light 1 12 may be provided to light up during game celebrations. This may attract the attention of spectators or the player. The tower light 1 12 may also be used for highlighting technical issues, requesting assistance or service etc. The poster display portion 1 14 may be provided for e.g. game information to be displayed.

In the exemplary embodiment, the front panel 101 may be opened or detached in whole or in part from the gaming machine 100 body to allow, for example, maintenance on the circuits or components encased in the gaming machine 100.

FIG. 1 B is a schematic front view diagram of the gaming apparatus/machine with the front panel opened in part from the gaming machine in the exemplary embodiment. As shown, the front panel 101 is opened from the gaming machine 100, and opened in part containing the main screen 104 and the player transactions panel 106, to reveal the internal portion of the gaming machine 100.

The gaming machine 100 comprises a power supply unit 124 for powering the various components of the gaming machine 100. The power supply unit 124 is coupled to a main board circuits cage 126. The main board circuits cage 126 is used to contain and protect a game processing module 128. The game processing module 128 implements the games on the gaming machine and also implements game functions such as, but not limited to, points/awards calculations. The game processing module 128 also drives visual contents, for example of the games, on the main screen 104 and, for example, audio content from the gaming machine 100. Speakers (not shown) are provided to output audio. Thus, the game processing module 128 may be a processor or a processing module/unit of the gaming machine 100.

In the exemplary embodiment, the game processing module 128 is coupled to a random number generator 130 and a storage device 132. In an alternative exemplary embodiment, the storage device 132 may be external to the gaming machine 100. In such an instance, the connection between the game processing module 128 and the storage device 132 may be by wired and/or wireless connections.

In the exemplary embodiment, the storage device 132 is arranged to store one or more process triggers such as a first process trigger and a cascading process trigger. The storage device 132 may also be arranged to store one or more main game process instructions and/or one or more first process trigger conditions and/or one or more first triggered process instructions and/or one or more cascading process trigger conditions and/or one or more cascading triggered process instructions. The storage device 132 is also arranged to store a credits database/meter for containing, but is not limited to, a player deposit of player credits for playing at the gaming apparatus. The storage device 132 is also arranged to store a game points database/meter for containing one or more game points win values associated with game output results or game winnings at the gaming apparatus. The credits database may also contain credits converted from a value of the game points database. The credits database may also contain one or more game credits win values associated with game output results or game winnings at the gaming apparatus.

Each of the one or more process triggers is associated with an instruction set for instructing the game processing module 128 to perform a further action, for changing the state of the gaming machine 100. For example, a process trigger may cause an instruction to the game processing module 128 to enter a triggered process automatically without further command/input by a user.

Each of the one or more main game process instructions, one or more first triggered process instructions and one or more cascading triggered process instructions is associated with an instruction set for instructing the game processing module 128 to perform a further action, for changing the state of the gaming machine 100. For example, a main game process instruction may cause an instruction to the game processing module 128 to determine an output of a main game based on a first/main game RTP (return-to-player). For example, a first triggered process instruction may cause an instruction to the game processing module 128 to award a deposit amount of an input entity usable as an input to participate in a first triggered process.

In addition, the game processing module 128 is coupled to a player input module 134. The player input module 134 is coupled to one or more input actuators or members such as buttons e.g. 120 of a player interaction panel 108, or a touch screen input member of the main screen 104 etc.

In the exemplary embodiment, the game processing module 128 is configured to monitor for a first process trigger within a main game process. For example, the first process trigger may be based on one or more first process trigger conditions. For example, the one or more first process trigger conditions may be based on a game output result of the main game process. In the exemplary embodiment, upon entering a first triggered process, the game processing module 128 is also configured to monitor for a cascading process trigger within the first triggered process. For example, the cascading process trigger may be based on one or more cascading process trigger conditions. For example, the one or more cascading process trigger conditions may be based on a game output result of the first triggered process. In the exemplary embodiment, upon detection of the cascading process trigger, the game processing module 128 is configured to implement a cascading triggered process, the cascading triggered process cascading from the first triggered process. Upon entry into the cascading triggered process, the game processing module 128 is configured to determine whether the cascading triggered process has ended. In the exemplary embodiment, if it is determined that the cascading triggered process has ended, the game processing module 128 is configured to return to continue implementation of the first triggered process. In the exemplary embodiment, if it is determined that the first triggered process has ended, the game processing module 128 is configured to return to continue implementation of the main game process. The modules 128, 130, 132, 134 may be in the form of printed circuit boards comprising application-specific integrated circuits (ASIC) that may perform specific functions with inputs from components coupled to these modules.

In the exemplary embodiment, the game processing module 128 facilitates implementation of one or more main/side/feature games of the gaming machine 100 and facilitates the display of the one or more games on a display means/member of the gaming machine 100 such as the main screen 104. The game processing module 128 is configured to generate/operate a game display area showing the game in play. The generation/operation may be graphical such as a game display area generated/operated based on computer code or may be mechanical such as controlling mechanically rotatable reels, depending on implementation.

In the exemplary embodiment, the player input module 134 is arranged to accept a player input for a game of the gaming machine 100. For example, the player input may be a player points input for playing a game. Thus, when the player input is a player points input, there is a value being input by the player, termed as player input value. The player input value may be deducted from a credits database/meter. Upon receipt of the player input, to commence a main game process of the gaming machine 100, the game processing module 128 is arranged to instruct the random number generator 130 to perform various functions, such as but not limited to obtaining/outputting a game output result. If the game output result is a win for the player, a game points or game credits win amount is an example of a win value associated with a game output result for the player. It may also be provided that the value is not from a win of the game. In such an instance, even without a win of the game i.e. from the game output result, some game points or game credits or both are still resultant from the game output result and awarded to the player as the win value associated with the game output result.

In the exemplary embodiment, the game processing module 128 is arranged to accumulate a game credits win value into the credits database/meter. The game processing module 128 is arranged to accumulate a game points win value into the game points database/meter. The gaming machine 100 may optionally further comprise an interface circuit board 138 coupled to the game module 128, and a bill validator module 140 coupled to the game module 128. The bill validator module 140 comprises circuitry for implementing bill validation and counting. In the exemplary embodiment, if a printer outlet 1 10 is provided, a printer 142 is also comprised in the gaming machine 100 for performing the printing functions.

It will be appreciated that the gaming machine 100 may further comprise other components that are not described here for clarity of illustration of the exemplary embodiments.

The interface circuit board 138 may be optionally provided to communicate with a game control server (not shown) that may e.g. monitor the results of the games of the gaming machine 100, for example for logging results of main and/or side games of the gaming machine 100.

In such an exemplary embodiment, a main or side/feature game win that is awarded may trigger the game module 128 to instruct or inform the interface circuit board 138 that a favourable result has been obtained. The game control server may be informed via the interface circuit board 138.

In some exemplary embodiments, the game control server (not shown) may e.g. communicate with the gaming machine 100, for example for informing of a winning instance of pool prize corresponding to a multiplied game win at the gaming machine 100. The communication with the game control server may be over a wired or wireless network.

FIG. 2 is a schematic block diagram illustrating a gaming machine/apparatus in an exemplary embodiment. The gaming apparatus 200 comprises a game processing module 202. The processing module 202 is coupled to a player input module 204 for accepting a player input to play a turn of a game, such as a main game, implemented on the gaming apparatus 200. The processing module 202 is further coupled to a random number generator 206 and a display member 208. The processing module 202 is also coupled to a storage device 210. The storage device 210 stores one or more credits databases, and/or one or more game points databases, and/or game win display data, and/or one or more process triggers such as a first process trigger and a cascading process trigger, and/or one or more main game process instructions and/or one or more first process trigger conditions and/or one or more first triggered process instructions and/or one or more cascading process trigger conditions and/or one or more cascading triggered process instructions.

A credits database/meter may contain, but is not limited to, a player deposit of player credits for playing at the gaming apparatus 200. A game points database/meter may contain one or more game points win values associated with game output results or game winnings at the gaming apparatus 200. The credits database may also contain credits converted from a value of the game points database. The credits database may also contain one or more game credits win values associated with game output results or game winnings at the gaming apparatus.

The processing module 202 is arranged to instruct the random number generator 206 to generate one or more random numbers. The processing module 202 is arranged to instruct the display member 208 to visually display a value of the credits database, a value of a game points database and game win display data. The display member 208 may also display a pre-determined input for playing a next turn of a main game and/or a next turn of a side/feature game.

In the exemplary embodiment, the processing module 202 is arranged to provide a game output result based on the one or more random numbers generated by the random number generator 206. In some examples, the game output result may be the final symbols and/or positions of a reel game. The game output result may be a game output result of a main game, a first triggered process (or primary feature game) and/or a cascading triggered process (or secondary feature game).

In the exemplary embodiment, the processing module 202 is capable of awarding to the player a win value associated with the game output result. The win value may be the total game points/credits awarded or total win amount for a game output result. For example, for a reel game, the total points/credits awarded may be the total points that is a summation of all possible winning combinations. The processing module 202 is further configured to display the win value as game win display data. The processing module 202 is also configured to accumulate a game points win value into the game points database or a game credits win value into the credits database. The value of the game points database is convertible to a value that may be accumulated into the credits database.

The final values accumulated in both the credits database and the game points database are visually displayed to the player.

In the exemplary embodiment, the processing module 202 is further configured to monitor for a first process trigger within a main game process. Upon detection of the first process trigger, the processing module 202 is configured to implement a first triggered process. The processing module 202 is further configured to monitor for a cascading process trigger within the first triggered process. Upon detection of the cascading process trigger, the processing module is configured to implement a cascading triggered process, the cascading triggered process cascading from the first triggered process.

In the exemplary embodiment, the processing module 202 is configured to determine whether the cascading triggered process has ended. If it is determined that the cascading triggered process has ended, the processing module 202 returns to continue implementation of the first triggered process. For example, the processing module 202 may implement a next turn of a first triggered process game whereby the preceding turn comprised the cascading process trigger. In the exemplary embodiment, the processing module 202 is configured to determine whether the first triggered process has ended. If it is determined that the first triggered process has ended, the processing module 202 returns to continue implementation of the main game process. For example, the processing module 202 may implement a next turn of the main game whereby the preceding turn comprised the first process trigger.

In the exemplary embodiment, the processing module 202 is configured to access one or more first triggered process instructions upon detection of the first process trigger. The one or more first triggered process instructions may comprise an instruction to the processing module 202 to award a deposit amount of an input entity usable as an input to participate in the first triggered process. For example, a separate entity other than game credits or game points, such as pinballs in a pinball-type game, may be awarded to be used as one or more inputs to participate in the first triggered process.

In the exemplary embodiment, the display member 208 may be instructed/configured to display at least one of the main game process, the first triggered process and the cascading triggered process. The display member 208 may be instructed/configured to display the first triggered process overlapping with the cascading triggered process on a same screen display.

In the exemplary embodiment, the processing module 202 is configured to award a game credits win value, a game points win value or both for at least one of the main game process, the first triggered process and the cascading triggered process. A win value associated with the cascading triggered process may be usable to participate in the main game process.

FIG. 3 is a schematic flowchart 300 illustrating a gaming process implementing a cascading process trigger in an exemplary embodiment.

In the exemplary embodiment, the gaming process of the flowchart 300 is implemented on a gaming apparatus/machine substantially similar to the gaming apparatus 100 of FIGs. 1 A and 1 B and the gaming apparatus 200 of FIG. 2.

At the gaming apparatus, a credits database is provided to contain a player deposit of player credits for playing at the gaming apparatus. A game points database is provided to contain a game points win value associated with a game output result. A game output result may also be associated with a game credits win value (in addition to or instead of a game points win value). Such game credits are also stored in the credits database. In general, a game output result may be associated with a win value that is game points, game credits or both points and credits. In the exemplary embodiment, a user/player deposits an amount of player credits that is stored in the credits database and provides an input to play a main game of the gaming apparatus. The input may be deducted from the credits database or from the game points database or from both. In addition, game points may be convertible to game credits.

At step 302, a main game process/play is executed. In the exemplary embodiment, a processing module of the gaming apparatus implements the main game process. In the exemplary embodiment, a random number generator outputs a game output result for each turn of the main game process. In other exemplary embodiments, the main game process may comprise a game of skill. The processing module may award a win value associated with the game output result of the main game process.

In the exemplary embodiment, the processing module may access one or more main game process instructions, for example, for the main game RTP, for the win value etc.

At step 304, the processing module also monitors for a first process trigger during the main game process. The first process trigger may be termed a primary feature trigger. The processing module monitors for the first process trigger based on one or more first process trigger conditions. If the first process trigger is not detected, the processing module continues to execute the main game process.

In the exemplary embodiment, the one or more first process trigger conditions may be based on, for example but is not limited to, a game output result of the main game process (or termed main game output result). Thus, the first process trigger may be based on a main game process output result.

As another example, the one or more first process trigger conditions may be based on randomness. For example, a first random number is generated by a random number generator at each turn of the main game process and stored in a memory buffer. The random number generator then generates a second random number for the processing module to determine whether the second random number matches the first random number (e.g. based on whether both random numbers are even or odd). If the second random number matches the first random number, a first process trigger is detected. The above is provided as one example. It will be appreciated that other processes to provide randomness may also be used. At step 306, upon detection of the first process trigger, the processing module is triggered to enter a first triggered process. For example, the entry into the first triggered process is automatic without further command by the user. The first triggered process may be termed a primary feature game process/play.

In the exemplary embodiment, the processing module is configured to access one or more first triggered process instructions. For example, the one or more first triggered process instructions may comprise instructions to activate a primary feature game that is different in play and/or appearance from the main game process. For example, the one or more first triggered process instructions may comprise a different return-to-player (RTP) than a RTP of the main game process.

At step 308, the processing module implements the first triggered process. In the exemplary embodiment, a random number generator outputs a game output result for each turn of the first triggered process. In some exemplary embodiments, the first triggered process may comprise a game of skill. In some exemplary embodiments, the processing module may award a win value associated with the game output result of the first triggered process (or termed first triggered process output result).

At step 310, upon entry into the first triggered process, the processing module monitors for a cascading process trigger. The cascading process trigger may be termed a secondary feature trigger. Thus, there exists a second triggered process that may be triggered from, or cascades from, a first triggered process. Upon exit from the second triggered process, the game process returns to the first triggered process.

In the exemplary embodiment, the processing module monitors for the cascading process trigger based on one or more cascading process trigger conditions. If the cascading process trigger is not detected, the processing module continues to execute the first triggered process.

In the exemplary embodiment, the one or more cascading process trigger conditions may be based on, for example but is not limited to, a game output result of the first triggered process. Thus, the cascading process trigger may be based on a first triggered process output result.

As another example, the one or more cascading process trigger conditions may be based on randomness. For example, a first random number is generated by a random number generator at each turn of the first triggered process and stored in a memory buffer. The random number generator then generates a second random number for the processing module to determine whether the second random number matches the first random number (e.g. based on whether both random numbers are even or odd). If the second random number matches the first random number, a cascading process trigger is detected. The above is provided as one example. It will be appreciated that other processes to provide randomness may also be used.

At step 312, upon detection of the cascading process trigger, the processing module is triggered to enter a cascading triggered process. For example, the entry into the cascading triggered process is automatic without further command by the user. The cascading triggered process may be termed a secondary feature game process/play.

In the exemplary embodiment, the processing module is configured to access one or more cascading triggered process instructions. For example, the one or more cascading triggered process instructions may comprise instructions to activate a secondary feature game that is different in play and/or appearance from the primary feature game and/or the main game process. For example, the one or more cascading triggered process instructions may comprise a different return-to-player (RTP) of the cascading triggered process than a RTP of the main game process and/or a RTP of the primary feature game.

Still at step 312, the processing module implements the cascading triggered process. In the exemplary embodiment, a random number generator outputs a game output result for each turn of the cascading triggered process. For example, there may be provided one or more turns of the cascading triggered process. In some exemplary embodiments, the cascading triggered process may comprise a game of skill. In some exemplary embodiments, the processing module may award a win value associated with the game output result of the cascading triggered process (or termed cascading triggered process output result).

Upon completion of the cascading triggered process, the game process is returned to the first triggered process.

That is, if it is determined that the cascading triggered process has ended, the processing module returns to continue implementation of the first triggered process. For example, the processing module implements the next turn of the first triggered process from the preceding turn whereby the cascading triggered process was entered at step 312.

At step 314, the processing module determines whether the first triggered process has ended. If the first triggered process is not ended, the game process loops to step 308. Thus, it is possible for the cascading triggered process to be entered again.

If the first triggered process is determined to be ended at step 314, the first triggered process is exited at step 316.

At step 318, the player is returned to the main game process.

That is, if it is determined that the first triggered process has ended, the processing module returns to continue implementation of the main game process. For example, the processing module implements the next turn of the main game process from the preceding turn whereby the first triggered process was entered at step 306.

In the exemplary embodiment, the credits database or the game points database or both may be updated based on the progress of the first triggered process, the cascading triggered process or both. For example, the credits database may be incremented with one or more game credits win values awarded e.g. from one or more turns of the cascading triggered process. In the exemplary embodiment, the processing module may be configured to award a game credits win value, a game points win value or a combination of both for at least one of the main game process, the first triggered process and the cascading triggered process.

FIG. 4A is a schematic drawing illustrating a screenshot 400 of an example game process in an exemplary embodiment. The game process comprises a main game of a gaming apparatus. The game may be implemented on a gaming apparatus/machine substantially similar to the gaming apparatus 100 of FIGs. 1A and 1 B and the gaming apparatus 200 of FIG. 2.

In the screenshot 400, a main game 410 and its main game output result is displayed at a game display portion 402. The main game shown at the game display portion 402 may be, for example, a reel game.

A credits display 404 is provided to display a value of a credits meter/database. The credits database may store a player deposit of player credits for playing at a gaming machine. The credits database may also store a game credits win value of a game output result (e.g. of each turn) of one or more games played at the gaming machine. A win display 406 is provided to display a value of the game points database. The game points database may store and accumulate a game points win value of a game output result (e.g. of each turn) of one or more games played at the gaming machine.

An input display 408 is provided to display an input to play a turn of a game e.g. a main game or a triggered process game or a cascading process game. The input may be a player input or may be a fixed input. The player input may be input via a player input module (compare e.g. player input module 134 of Fig. 1 B).

In the exemplary embodiment, a processing module of the gaming machine implements the main game. In the exemplary embodiment, a random number generator outputs a game output result for each turn of the main game. The processing module may award a win value associated with the game output result of the main game or the main game output result. In the exemplary embodiment, the processing module may access one or more main game process instructions, for example, for the main game RTP, for the win value etc.

The processing module also monitors for a first process trigger during the main game process. The processing module monitors for the first process trigger based on one or more first process trigger conditions. If the first process trigger is not detected, the processing module continues to execute the main game process. In the exemplary embodiment, the one or more first process trigger conditions may be based on a game output result of the main game (or termed main game output result) or may be random (or based on randomness). Thus, the first process trigger may be based on a main game process output result.

In the exemplary embodiment, upon detection of the first process trigger, the processing module is triggered to enter a first triggered process. For example, the entry into the first triggered process is automatic without further command by a user/player. In the exemplary embodiment, the processing module is configured to access one or more first triggered process instructions. For example, the one or more first triggered process instructions may comprise instructions to activate a primary feature game that is different in play and/or appearance from the main game. For example, the one or more first triggered process instructions may comprise a different return-to-player (RTP) than a RTP of the main game.

FIG. 4B is a schematic drawing illustrating a screenshot 412 of an example triggered process in an exemplary embodiment. In the screenshot 412, a first triggered process and a cascading triggered process are shown that are different in appearance from a main game. The first triggered process may be a triggered process from the screenshot 400 of FIG. 4A. Like numerals are used to denote similar displays. The first triggered process and the cascading triggered process may be implemented on a gaming apparatus/machine substantially similar to the gaming apparatus 100 of FIGs. 1A and 1 B and the gaming apparatus 200 of FIG. 2.

In the screenshot 412, a first triggered process 414 and its first triggered process output result is displayed at the game display portion 402. A processing module of the gaming machine implements the first triggered process. In the exemplary embodiment, a random number generator outputs a game output result for each turn of the first triggered process. The processing module may award a win value associated with the game output result of the first triggered process (or termed first triggered process output result). The processing module monitors for a cascading process trigger.

In the exemplary embodiment, the processing module monitors for the cascading process trigger based on one or more cascading process trigger conditions. If the cascading process trigger is not detected, the processing module continues to execute the first triggered process. In the exemplary embodiment, the one or more cascading process trigger conditions may be based on a game output result of the first triggered process or may be random (or based on randomness). Thus, the cascading process trigger may be based on a first triggered process output result.

Upon detection of the cascading process trigger, the processing module is triggered to enter a cascading triggered process. For example, the entry into the cascading triggered process is automatic without further command by the user. In the exemplary embodiment, the processing module is configured to access one or more cascading triggered process instructions. For example, the one or more cascading triggered process instructions may comprise instructions to activate a secondary feature game that is different in play and/or appearance from the primary feature game (or the first triggered process) and/or the main game. For example, the one or more cascading triggered process instructions may comprise a different return-to-player (RTP) of the cascading triggered process than a RTP of the main game process and/or a RTP of the primary feature game.

In the exemplary embodiment, the cascading triggered process is displayed as cascading triggered process 416 with its cascading triggered process output result at the game display portion 402. In the exemplary embodiment, the cascading triggered process 416 is on the same screen display as the first triggered process 414. It will be appreciated that the cascading triggered process 416 may be on a different screen or a different screen display from the first triggered process 414. In some exemplary embodiments, the cascading triggered process 416 may be shown overlapping and/or integrated with the first triggered process 414 on the same screen. In the exemplary embodiment, the processing module implements the cascading triggered process 416. In the exemplary embodiment, a random number generator outputs a game output result for each turn of the cascading triggered process. For example, there may be provided one or more turns of the cascading triggered process. The processing module may award a win value associated with the game output result of the cascading triggered process (or termed cascading triggered process output result).

Upon completion of the cascading triggered process 416, the first triggered process 414 is returned to for play. That is, if it is determined that the cascading triggered process has ended, the processing module returns to continue implementation of the first triggered process. For example, the processing module implements the next turn of the first triggered process from the preceding turn comprising the cascading process trigger.

If the first triggered process 414 has not ended, the processing module continues to monitor for a cascading process trigger. If the first triggered process is ended, the processing module returns to the main game for play (see FIG. 4A). That is, if it is determined that the first triggered process has ended, the processing module returns to continue implementation of the main game process. For example, the processing module implements the next turn of the main game process from the preceding turn comprising the first process trigger.

In the exemplary embodiment, the credits display 404 or the win display 406 or both are updated based on the progress of the main game, and/or the first triggered process, and/or the cascading triggered process. For example, the credits database may be incremented with one or more game credits win values awarded e.g. from one or more turns of the cascading triggered process.

FIG. 5 is a schematic flowchart 500 illustrating a gaming process implementing a cascading process trigger in an exemplary embodiment.

In the exemplary embodiment, the gaming process of the flowchart 500 is implemented on a gaming apparatus/machine substantially similar to the gaming apparatus 100 of FIGs. 1 A and 1 B and the gaming apparatus 200 of FIG. 2. The gaming process of the flowchart 500 is substantially similar to the gaming process described with reference to FIG. 3. For ease of illustration, details that have been described with reference to FIG. 3 are not reproduced for description of FIG. 5.

At step 502, a main game process/play is executed. The main game o the main game process may be a reel game. A random number generator of the gaming machine outputs a game output result for each turn of the main game process. A processing module of the gaming machine may award a win value associated with the game output result of the main game process.

At step 504, the processing module also monitors for a first process trigger during the main game process. The first process trigger may be termed a primary feature trigger. The processing module monitors for the first process trigger based on one or more first process trigger conditions. If the first process trigger is not detected, the processing module continues to execute the main game process.

In the exemplary embodiment, the one or more first process trigger conditions may be based on, for example but is not limited to, a game output result of the main game process (or termed main game output result). For example, the first process trigger may be based on a main game process output result. The one or more first process trigger conditions may also be based on randomness.

At step 506, upon detection of the first process trigger, the processing module is triggered to enter a first triggered process. For example, the entry into the first triggered process is automatic without further command by the user. The first triggered process may be termed a primary feature game process/play.

In the exemplary embodiment, the processing module is configured to access one or more first triggered process instructions. For example, the one or more first triggered process instructions may comprise instructions to activate a primary feature game that is different in play and/or appearance from the main game process. For example, the one or more first triggered process instructions may comprise a different return-to-player (RTP) than a RTP of the main game process.

In the exemplary embodiment, the primary feature game process is based on a pinball-type or a Pachinko-type game. Thus, for example, a reel game of the main game is removed from a screen display of the gaming machine and the display is replaced by a pinball-type game.

In the exemplary embodiment, the one or more first triggered process instructions may comprise an instruction to the processing module to award a deposit amount of an input entity usable as an input to participate in the first triggered process. For example, an amount of pinballs (as the input entity) may be awarded for a user/player to use as one or more inputs to participate or play the pinball-type game.

At step 508, the processing module implements the first triggered process or primary feature game play. In the exemplary embodiment, a player begins playing the pinball-type game which is the primary feature game. In the exemplary embodiment, each turn of the pinball-type game provides a game output result. The processing module may award a win value associated with the game output result of the primary feature game.

At step 510, upon entry into the first triggered process or primary feature game play, the processing module monitors for a cascading process trigger. The cascading process trigger may be termed a secondary feature trigger. Thus, there exists a second/secondary triggered process that may be triggered from, or cascades from, a first triggered process or primary feature game play.

In the exemplary embodiment, the processing module monitors for the cascading process trigger based on one or more cascading process trigger conditions. If the cascading process trigger is not detected, the processing module continues to execute the first triggered process. For example, the processing module monitors whether for each turn of the primary feature game, a pinball launched by the player hits or misses a designated object or location within the primary feature game. If there is a hit, it is determined that the cascading process trigger has been activated. Thus, the one or more cascading process trigger conditions is based on a game output result of the first triggered process or primary feature game process. For example, the cascading process trigger may be based on a first triggered process output result.

As another example, the processing module monitors for a random event such as a matching of random numbers. If the random event occurs, it is determined that the cascading process trigger has been activated. For this example, the one or more cascading process trigger conditions is based on randomness.

At step 512, upon detection of the cascading process trigger, the processing module is triggered to enter a cascading triggered process. For example, the entry into the cascading triggered process is automatic without further command by the user. The cascading triggered process may be termed a secondary feature game process/play.

In the exemplary embodiment, the processing module is configured to access one or more cascading triggered process instructions. For example, the one or more cascading triggered process instructions may comprise instructions to activate a secondary feature game that is different in play and/or appearance from the primary feature game and/or the main game process. For example, the one or more cascading triggered process instructions may comprise a different return-to-player (RTP) of the cascading triggered process than a RTP of the main game process and/or a RTP of the primary feature game.

In the exemplary embodiment, at step 512, the processing module implements the cascading triggered process or secondary feature game process. In the exemplary embodiment, the processing module activates a second reel game that is different from a reel game of the main game. The second reel game is based on the one or more cascading triggered process instructions and is implemented as the secondary feature game. The second reel game may be different in, for example but is not limited to, appearance from the main game.

In the exemplary embodiment, upon entry into the cascading triggered process or secondary feature game process, a free spin play of the second reel game is triggered. There may be provided one or more spins/turns of the second reel game. The random number generator outputs a game output result for each turn of the free spin play of the second reel game (i.e. of the cascading triggered process or secondary feature game process). The processing module may award a win value associated with the game output result of the cascading triggered process (or termed cascading triggered process output result).

Upon completion of the cascading triggered process or secondary feature game process, the game process is returned to the first triggered process or primary feature game process. That is, if it is determined that the cascading triggered process has ended, the processing module returns to continue implementation of the first triggered process. For example, the processing module implements the next turn of the first triggered process from the preceding turn comprising the cascading process trigger.

At step 514, the processing module determines whether the first triggered process has ended. In the exemplary embodiment, it is determined whether the pinball-type game of the primary feature game process has any remaining pinballs for the player to play with or launch.

If there are pinballs remaining at step 514, i.e. the first triggered process is not ended, the game process loops to step 508. Thus, it is possible for the cascading triggered process or secondary feature game process to be entered again.

If there are no pinballs remaining at step 514, i.e. the first triggered process is determined to be ended at step 514, the first triggered process or primary feature game process is exited at step 516.

At step 518, the player is returned to the main game process. That is, if it is determined that the first triggered process has ended, the processing module returns to continue implementation of the main game process. For example, the processing module implements the next turn of the main game process from the preceding turn comprising the first process trigger. In the exemplary embodiment, the player is allowed to play a next turn of the main game. FIG. 6A is a schematic drawing illustrating a screenshot 600 of an example game process in an exemplary embodiment. The game process comprises a main game of a gaming apparatus. The game may be implemented on a gaming apparatus/machine substantially similar to the gaming apparatus 100 of FIGs. 1A and 1 B and the gaming apparatus 200 of FIG. 2. The game process may be substantially similar to the gaming process implementing a cascading process trigger as described with reference to FIG. 5.

In the screenshot 600, a main game 610 and its main game output result is displayed at a game display portion 602. The main game 610 shown at the game display portion 602 is in the form of a reel game.

A credits display 604 is provided to display a value of a credits meter/database. The credits database may store a player deposit of player credits for playing at a gaming machine. The credits database may also store a game credits win value of a game output result (e.g. of each turn) of one or more games played at the gaming machine. A win display 606 is provided to display a win value, e.g. of a main game process, a first triggered process and/or a cascading triggered process.

In other exemplary embodiments, the win display 606 may be provided in various other different forms to e.g. display win values in terms of game points, or game credits or both concurrently. For example, in another exemplary embodiment, the win display 606 may display a value of the game points database. The game points database may store and accumulate a game points win value of a game output result (e.g. of each turn) of one or more games played at the gaming machine.

An input display 608 is provided to display an input to play a turn of a game e.g. a main game or a triggered process game or a cascading process game. The input may be a player input or may be a fixed input. The player input may be input via a player input module (compare e.g. player input module 134 of Fig. 1 B).

In the exemplary embodiment, a processing module of the gaming machine implements the main game. In the exemplary embodiment, a random number generator outputs a game output result for each turn of the main game. The processing module may award a win value associated with the game output result of the main game i.e. the main game output result.

In the exemplary embodiment, each shaded circle is arbitrarily termed a“Gold Coin”. The processing module is configured to access one or more main game process instructions, for example, for the main game RTP, for the win value etc.

For example, the following main game win value Table 1 from the one or more main game process instructions may be implemented by the processing module.

Table 1

In the exemplary embodiment,“x” means the number of appearances. In the exemplary embodiment, the processing module awards a win value based on the main game output result. In the screenshot 600, there are shown five Gold Coins. As such, the processing module awards an amount of game credits as a win value to the player. The game credits are based on the 20 credits shown in Table 1 multiplied by an input reflected in the input display 608. It will be appreciated that in other exemplary embodiments, other forms of awarding may be implemented. For example, the win value may be in terms of game points.

In the exemplary embodiment, it may be provided that the win value is displayed at the win display 606. The win display 606 may be incremented and accumulated depending on the progress of the first triggered process and the cascading triggered process (described below). Upon termination of the first triggered process and the game process returns to the main game process, in the exemplary embodiment, the accumulation of win values at the win display 606 is converted to game credits and stored in the credits database. The credits display 604 is then updated upon a return to the main game process. Furthermore, in the exemplary embodiment, the one or more main game process instructions may also provide a possibility of awarding a win multiplier to one or more win values awarded in a first triggered process, in a cascading triggered process or both processes.

For example, the following main game multiplier Table 2 from the one or more main game process instructions may be implemented by the processing module. The multiplier is based on based on the main game output result.

Table 2 For example, any game credits, game points or both awarded from the first triggered process and the cascading triggered process are multiplied by the multiplier determined in the main game based on the main game output result. In the exemplary embodiment, as there are shown five Gold Coins in the screenshot 600, the multiplier is 3. In the exemplary embodiment, the processing module also monitors for a first process trigger during the main game process. The processing module monitors for the first process trigger based on one or more first process trigger conditions. If the first process trigger is not detected, the processing module continues to execute the main game process. In the exemplary embodiment, the one or more first process trigger conditions is based on a game output result of the main game (or termed the main game output result).

In the exemplary embodiment, the one or more first process trigger conditions comprise triggering the first process trigger if the main game output result contains one of a scattered 3x, 4x or 5x“Gold Coin” hit. Therefore, in the screenshot 600, with five Gold Coins, the processing module detects a first process trigger.

In the exemplary embodiment, upon detection of the first process trigger, the processing module is triggered to enter the first triggered process. In the exemplary embodiment, the entry into the first triggered process is automatic without further command by the user/player. In the exemplary embodiment, the processing module is configured to access one or more first triggered process instructions. For example, the one or more first triggered process instructions may comprise instructions to activate a primary feature game that is different in play and/or appearance from the main game. For example, the one or more first triggered process instructions may comprise a different return-to-player (RTP) than a RTP of the main game.

As another example, the one or more first triggered process instructions may comprise providing a storage or deposit of an amount of an input entity usable as an input to participate in the first triggered process. For example, the amount of the input entity may be based on the main game output result.

FIG. 6B is a schematic drawing illustrating a screenshot 612 of an example triggered process in the exemplary embodiment. In the screenshot 612, a first triggered process and a cascading triggered process are shown that are different in appearance from a main game.

In the screenshot 612, a first triggered process 614 and its first triggered process output result is displayed at the game display portion 602. In the exemplary embodiment, the first triggered process 614 is in the form of a pinball-type game. The first triggered process 614 comprises a pinball launcher 616 to launch a pinball 618 against one or more barriers/obstacles e.g. 620, 622. There is provided a goal aperture 624 for which a user/player attempts to drop the pinball 618 into. The goal aperture 624 may be graphically displayed in the form of a hollow tree trunk.

In the exemplary embodiment, upon entry into the first triggered process, the processing module accesses the one or more first triggered process instructions to provide a deposit of an amount of an input entity usable as an input to participate in the first triggered process. In the exemplary embodiment, the input entity usable as an input to participate in the first triggered process is in the form of pinballs. The amount of the input entity or pinballs is displayed at a first triggered process input entity display 626. In the exemplary embodiment, the amount of pinballs is based on the main game output result. For example, the following input entity award Table 3 from the one or more first triggered process instructions may be implemented by the processing module.

Table 3

For example, for an appearance of 3 Gold Coins or 4 Gold Coins or 5 Gold Coins in the main game output result, the processing module provides 10 pinballs for the user/player to use for participating in the pinball-type game of the first triggered process.

Alternatively, for example, the following input entity award Table 4 from the one or more first triggered process instructions may be implemented by the processing module.

It is also possible to award the number of“pin ball” based on the hit of scattered 3x, 4x or 5x“Gold Coin”, such as:

Table 4

For example, for an appearance of 3 Gold Coins in the main game output result, the processing module provides 10 pinballs for the user/player to use for participating in the pinball-type game of the first triggered process. As another example, for an appearance of 5 Gold Coins in the main game output result, the processing module provides 20 pinballs for the user/player to use for participating in the pinball-type game of the first triggered process.

In the exemplary embodiment, the processing module of the gaming machine implements the first triggered process. For each turn of the first triggered process, the user/player is allowed to launch each pinball 618 towards the obstacles e.g. 620, 622 and the pinball 618 may be graphically displayed to bounce about and freely drop down around the obstacles e.g. 620, 622 towards the bottom of the screenshot 612. For each turn of the first triggered process, the amount of pinballs is decremented in the first triggered process input entity display 626.

In the exemplary embodiment, a random number generator may be arranged to output a game output result for each turn of the first triggered process. That is, the processing module may instruct a random first triggered process game output result to determine if each input entity or pinball drops into the goal aperture 624.

In the exemplary embodiment, as the first triggered process is not arranged to provide game credits or game points as an award, the multiplier from Table 2 is not used. In other exemplary embodiments, the multiplier from Table 2, if available, may be used as a multiplier to game credits and/or game points awarded in the first triggered process.

In the exemplary embodiment, the processing module monitors for a cascading process trigger based on one or more cascading process trigger conditions. In the exemplary embodiment, the one or more cascading process trigger conditions is based on a game output result of the first triggered process. In the exemplary embodiment, the cascading process trigger is based on whether a pinball drops into the goal aperture 624.

If the cascading process trigger is not detected, the processing module continues to execute the first triggered process. In the exemplary embodiment, if the pinball 618 misses the goal aperture 624, the current turn of the first triggered process ends. If there is a pinball remaining shown in the first triggered process input entity display 626, the next turn of the first triggered process begins. If there is no pinball remaining shown in the first triggered process input entity display 626, the first triggered process ends and game process returns to the main game process. Compare screenshot 600 of FIG. 6A.

In the exemplary embodiment, if the pinball 618 drops into the goal aperture 624 during a turn of the first triggered process, there is a detection of the cascading process trigger by the processing module. Upon detection of the cascading process trigger, the processing module is triggered to enter a cascading triggered process. For example, the entry into the cascading triggered process is automatic without further command by the user.

In the exemplary embodiment, the processing module is configured to access one or more cascading triggered process instructions. For example, the one or more cascading triggered process instructions may comprise instructions to activate a secondary feature game that is different in play and/or appearance from the primary feature game (or the first triggered process) and/or the main game. For example, the one or more cascading triggered process instructions may comprise a different return-to-player (RTP) of the cascading triggered process than a RTP of the main game process and/or a RTP of the primary feature game.

In the exemplary embodiment, the cascading triggered process is displayed as cascading triggered process 628 with its cascading triggered process output result at the game display portion 602. In the exemplary embodiment, the cascading triggered process 628 is in the form of a second reel game. The second reel game is different from the reel game of the main game.

In the exemplary embodiment, the cascading triggered process 628 is shown on the same screen display as the first triggered process 614. The cascading triggered process 628 is shown integrated with the first triggered process 614 on the same screen display.

That is, in the exemplary embodiment, there is provided a display member coupled to the processing module with the display member being configured to display at least one of the main game process, the first triggered process and the cascading triggered process. In the exemplary embodiment, the display member is configured to display the first triggered process 614 integrated or overlapping with the cascading triggered process 628 on a same screen display.

In the exemplary embodiment, the processing module implements the cascading triggered process 628. In the exemplary embodiment, upon detection of the cascading process trigger, the processing module instructs a spin of the second reel game. In the exemplary embodiment, a random number generator outputs a game output result for each turn of the cascading triggered process.

The processing module may award a win value associated with the game output result of the cascading triggered process (or termed cascading triggered process output result).

In the exemplary embodiment, each triangle shown in the screenshot 612 is arbitrarily termed a“Pink Frog”. The processing module is configured to access the one or more cascading triggered process instructions, for example, for the cascading triggered process RTP, for the win value etc.

For example, the following cascading triggered process win value Table 5 from the one or more cascading triggered process instructions may be implemented by the processing module.

Table 5

In the exemplary embodiment,“x” means the number of appearances.

In the exemplary embodiment, the processing module awards a win value based on the game output result of the cascading triggered process. In the screenshot 612, there are shown three Pink Frogs. As such, the processing module awards an amount of game credits as a win value to the player. The game credits are based on the 500 credits shown in Table 5. It will be appreciated that in other exemplary embodiments, other forms of awarding may be implemented. For example, the win value may be in terms of game points.

In the exemplary embodiment, it may also be provided that joker-type or wildcard- type symbols be used as substitute symbols. For example, a wildcard-type symbol may be termed“Double”. Usage of such wildcard-type symbols may primarily be taken to be a substitute of a symbol in a combination that provides for a win value (e.g. a winning combination). For example, a combination [“Pink Frog”, “Pink Frog”, “Pink Frog”] is equivalent to [“Pink Frog”,“Double”,“Double”].

In the exemplary embodiment, it may also be provided that multipliers be provided based on the number of appearances of the substitute symbol“Double” in the game output result. For example, the following cascading triggered process win value multiplier Table 6 from the one or more cascading triggered process instructions may be implemented by the processing module.

Table 6

The multiplier is applied to the win value based on Table 5. For example, if there is an appearance of two“Double” symbols with a Pink Frog, the multiplier of four times is used with the 500 credits awarded from Table 5. That is, the processing module may award 2000 credits for the cascading triggered process.

In the exemplary embodiment, the multiplier from Table 2, if available, is used as a multiplier to game credits and/or game points awarded in the cascading triggered process. For example, if there was an appearance of five Gold Coins in the main game, the multiplier from Table 2 is used with the win value from the cascading triggered process. As an example, a multiplier of three times from Table 2 is used with the initial 2000 credits awarded for the cascading triggered process to provide for 6000 credits as an award.

Thus, in the exemplary embodiment, a win value associated with the cascading triggered process is usable to participate in the main game process. For example, the game credits awarded from the cascading triggered process may be used for playing the main game of the main game process. In the exemplary embodiment, the win value is incrementally displayed at the win display 606. The win display 606 may be incremented and accumulated depending on the progress of the first triggered process and the cascading triggered process.

Upon completion of the cascading triggered process 628, the first triggered process 614 is returned to for play. In the exemplary embodiment, if there is a non-zero amount of pinballs displayed at the first triggered process input entity display 626, the processing module implements the next turn of the first triggered process. That is, if it is determined that the cascading triggered process 628 has ended, the processing module returns to continue implementation of the first triggered process 614. In the exemplary embodiment, the processing module implements the next turn of the first triggered process 614 from the preceding turn comprising the cascading process trigger, i.e. allowing the use of the next pinball.

Thus, if the first triggered process 614 has not ended, the processing module continues to monitor for a cascading process trigger. Otherwise, if the first triggered process 614 is ended, i.e. if there are no more pinballs displayed at the first triggered process input entity display 626, the processing module returns to the main game for play (see FIG. 6A). That is, if it is determined that the first triggered process 614 has ended, the processing module returns to continue implementation of the main game process. For example, the processing module implements the next turn of the main game process from the preceding turn comprising the first process trigger, e.g. allowing the use of a player input to play the next turn of the reel game of the main game process.

Upon termination of the first triggered process 614 and the processing module returns to continue implementation of the main game process, in the exemplary embodiment, the accumulation of win values at the win display 606 is converted to game credits and stored in the credits database. The credits display 604 is then updated upon a return to the main game process.

In other exemplary embodiments, the credits display 604 or the win display 606 or both may be updated, e.g. on a turn basis, based on the progress of the main game, and/or the first triggered process, and/or the cascading triggered process. For example, the credits database may be incremented with one or more game credits win values awarded e.g. from one or more turns of the cascading triggered process.

In the exemplary embodiment, the processing module may be configured to award a game credits win value, a game points win value or a combination of both for at least one of the main game process, the first triggered process and the cascading triggered process.

It will be appreciated that the Tables 1 to 6 above are examples only and are not intended to be limitations on the description provided above.

In the described exemplary embodiments, there may be provided a“double-level” feature trigger whereby a first triggered process (itself triggered by a first process trigger or primary feature trigger) may cascade into a cascading triggered process upon detection of a cascading process trigger (or a secondary feature trigger).

In described exemplary embodiments, the primary feature trigger may be activated or triggered from a main game either randomly or based on one or more predetermined conditions. Upon triggering, it may be provided that the main game provides a usable input for playing the primary feature game and the primary feature game is entered into from the main game. It is appreciated that there may be provided one or more main games and one or more primary feature games.

In described exemplary embodiments, the secondary feature trigger may, in turn, be activated or triggered from the primary feature game either randomly or based on one or more predetermined conditions to provide a secondary feature game. It is appreciated that there may be provided one or more secondary feature games.

It will be appreciated that the main game, the primary feature game and the secondary feature game may be of any type of game designs. For example, there may be provided a pinball-type game, a free spin game etc. In one described example, one or more primary feature games may provide one or more rounds of pinball-type games and one or more secondary feature games may be a free spin reel game that is triggered randomly by the one or more primary feature games. In described exemplary embodiments, the main game, the primary feature game and the secondary feature game may each differ from each other. For example, in the secondary feature game, a game win value may be awarded based on a different/separate preconditioned/predetermined set of symbol combination results (e.g. the symbols may or may not be the same as those of a main game).

In described exemplary embodiments, a win value associated with a main game output result, and/or a first triggered process output result and/or a cascading triggered process output result may be awarded as game credits, game points or both. For example, a win value awarded with a cascading triggered process output result may be used for playing a next turn of a main game. In addition, one or more multipliers may be provided with a main game output result, and/or a first triggered process output result and/or a cascading triggered process output result. For example, a multiplier awarded from a main game may be used for a first triggered process output result and/or a cascading triggered process output result.

FIG. 7 is a schematic flowchart for illustrating a gaming process implementing a cascading process trigger in an exemplary embodiment. At step 702, a random number generator arranged for output of a game output result is provided. At step 704, a processing module is provided to implement a main game process, the processing module also monitoring/detecting for a first process trigger within the main game process. At step 706, upon detection of the first process trigger, the processing module implements a first triggered process and the processing module also monitoring/detecting for a cascading process trigger within the first triggered process. At step 708, upon detection of the cascading process trigger, the processing module implements a cascading triggered process, the cascading triggered process cascading from the first triggered process. At step 710, the processing module determines whether the cascading triggered process has ended and if it is determined that the cascading triggered process has ended, the processing module returns to continue implementation of the first triggered process. The processing module may determine whether the first triggered process has ended, and wherein if it is determined that the first triggered process has ended, the processing module may return to continue implementation of the main game process.

The processing module may access one or more first triggered process instructions upon detection of the first process trigger. The processing module may award a deposit amount of an input entity usable as an input to participate in the first triggered process.

In the exemplary embodiment, the first triggered process may be displayed overlapping with the cascading triggered process on a same screen display.

The processing module may award a game credits win value, a game points win value or both for at least one of the main game process, the first triggered process and the cascading triggered process.

In the exemplary embodiment, a win value associated with the cascading triggered process may be usable to participate in the main game process.

FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram illustrating a plurality of gaming apparati in a network in an exemplary embodiment. The network 802 comprises a plurality of gaming apparati e.g. 804, 806 network-linked to a network server 808. The network links or communication links may be wired or wireless. The gaming apparati e.g. 804, 806 may each function substantially similarly to the gaming apparati as described with reference to any of FIGs. 1 A, 1 B and 2. The network server 808 implements server functions for the gaming apparati e.g. 804, 806. For example, the network server 808 carries out logging functions for the games performed at the gaming apparati e.g. 804, 806.

The network 802 further comprises a storage server 810 connected to the network server 808. The storage server 810 is coupled via a communication link to the network server 808.

In the exemplary embodiment, the storage server 810 stores one or more process triggers such as a first process trigger and a cascading process trigger. The storage server 810 also stores one or more main game process instructions and/or one or more first process trigger conditions and/or one or more first triggered process instructions and/or one or more cascading process trigger conditions and/or one or more cascading triggered process instructions. Such instructions and/or conditions may instruct the gaming apparati e.g. 804, 806 to perform an action, for changing the state of the gaming apparati e.g. 804, 806. In some exemplary embodiments, the storage server 810 may store a credits database/meter each for the gaming apparati e.g. 804, 806. In some exemplary embodiments, the storage server 810 may also store a game points database/meter each for the gaming apparati e.g. 804, 806. The gaming apparati e.g. 804, 806 may retrieve the one or more process triggers and/or one or more main game process instructions and/or one or more first process trigger conditions and/or one or more first triggered process instructions and/or one or more cascading process trigger conditions and/or one or more cascading triggered process instructions, and/or the credits database and/or the game points database, from the storage server 810.

In the exemplary embodiment, each of the one or more process triggers is associated with an instruction set for instructing the gaming apparati e.g. 804, 806 to perform a further action, for changing the state of the gaming apparati e.g. 804, 806. For example, a first process trigger may cause an instruction to the gaming apparati e.g. 804, 806 to enter a first triggered process automatically without further command/input by a user. For example, a cascading process trigger may cause an instruction to the gaming apparati e.g. 804, 806 to cascade into a cascading triggered process from the first triggered process that is itself triggered from a main game process. In the exemplary embodiment, upon exiting the cascading triggered process, the gaming apparati e.g. 804, 806 is instructed to continue implementation of the first triggered process (e.g. play of a next turn of the first triggered process). In the exemplary embodiment, upon exiting the first triggered process, the gaming apparati e.g. 804, 806 is instructed to continue implementation of the main game process (e.g. play of a next turn of the main game process).

In the exemplary embodiment, the storage server 810 may additionally also function as a pool server. In such a function, the storage server 810 accumulates a pool of prizes for awarding of prizes for players at the gaming apparati e.g. 804, 806 who have a related extended event awarded. For example, a player may have a Magnification extended event that may have a pool prize awarded. The accumulation of the pool may be based on points collected from the gaming apparati e.g. 804, 806 or prizes contributed by sponsors. When a Magnification extended event is executed at the respective gaming apparatus e.g. 804, 806, a portion, or the whole, of the prizes stored in the pool server 810 is discharged to the respective gaming apparatus e.g. 804, 806. For example, 50% of the prizes may be awarded to the respective gaming apparatus.

Thus, additional entertainment may be provided to the players at the gaming apparati e.g. 804, 806 via additional prizes awarded by the pool server 810, regardless of the progress or results of the main games being played at the gaming apparati e.g. 804, 806.

In the exemplary embodiment, the prizes may include, but are not limited to, gaming points, loyalty points, bonus points, bonus items etc. Awarding of the prizes may be via a number of methods. For example, in one method, the network server 808 transmits the ID numbers of the gaming apparati e.g. 804, 806 that have players winning their side games to an operator and the operator presents the respective prizes to the players at the respective gaming apparati e.g. 804, 806. Alternatively, bonus points may be respectively awarded electronically by the network server 808 to the players at the gaming apparati e.g. 804, 806.

In the above exemplary embodiment, the one or more process triggers and/or one or more main game process instructions and/or one or more first process trigger conditions and/or one or more first triggered process instructions and/or one or more cascading process trigger conditions and/or one or more cascading triggered process instructions for instructing the gaming apparati e.g. 804, 806 are described as being stored in a storage server 810 accessible by the gaming apparati e.g. 804, 806. It will be appreciated that the described exemplary embodiments are not limited as such and the one or more process triggers and/or one or more main game process instructions and/or one or more first process trigger conditions and/or one or more first triggered process instructions and/or one or more cascading process trigger conditions and/or one or more cascading triggered process instructions for instructing the gaming apparati e.g. 804, 806 may be stored stand-alone, for example in a storage device 132 of a gaming machine 100 described with reference to FIG. 1 B. In the above exemplary embodiments, the gaming apparati are described as being in the form of arcade machines. However, it will be appreciated that the gaming apparati may include other electronic devices.

FIG. 9 shows a schematic drawing of a game system 900 according to an exemplary embodiment. The system 900 comprises a plurality of gaming apparati 902, 904, 906, each coupled to a game network server or unit 908. The gaming apparati 902, 904, 906 and the game unit 908 communicate via respective network interfaces provided on the gaming apparati and the game unit. The gaming apparati 902, 904, 906 may be implemented in a variety of different ways. For example, one or more of the gaming apparati 902 are implemented as physical gaming machines such as arcade gaming machines, slot machines, electronic gaming tables or the like. One or more other gaming gaming apparati 904 are implemented as virtual gaming machines on desktop or tablet computing devices. One or more other gaming apparati 906 are implemented as virtual gaming machines on portable handheld devices such as mobile phones, Personnel Digital Assistants (PDAs) or the like. The virtual gaming machines 904, 906 may be implemented via Wi-Fi, the Internet, interactive TV or other service networks. The coupling between the game unit 908 and the respective gaming apparati 902, 904, 906 may be implemented in a variety of different ways, including via Wi-Fi, the Internet, or via other wired or wireless networks.

The game unit 908 comprises a database 910 for storing data for conducting one or more main games and other information such as information identifying the respective gaming apparati 902, 904, 906. The database 910 also stores one or more process triggers and/or one or more main game process instructions and/or one or more first process trigger conditions and/or one or more first triggered process instructions and/or one or more cascading process trigger conditions and/or one or more cascading triggered process instructions for instructing the gaming apparati e.g. 902, 904, 906 to perform an action, for changing the state of the gaming apparati e.g. 902, 904, 906. In some exemplary embodiments, the database 910 may store a credits database/meter each for the gaming apparati e.g. 902, 904, 906. In some exemplary embodiments, the database 910 may also store a game points database/meter each for the gaming apparati e.g. 902, 904, 906. The gaming apparati e.g. 902, 904, 906 may retrieve the one or more process triggers and/or one or more main game process instructions and/or one or more first process trigger conditions and/or one or more first triggered process instructions and/or one or more cascading process trigger conditions and/or one or more cascading triggered process instructions, and/or the credits database and/or the game points database, from the database 910.

Further, the game unit 908 comprises a processor unit/module 912 coupled to the database 910. The processor module 912 is capable of awarding prizes to players on the respective gaming apparati 902, 904, 906, e.g. based on the information stored in the database 910. The processor module 912 is coupled to a pool database 914 comprising a prize pool.

The processing module 912 is also configured to award a win value associated with a game output result at each gaming apparati 902, 904, 906. The processing module 912 is further configured to monitor for a first process trigger during a main game process. Upon detection of the first process trigger, the processing module 912 is configured to implement a first triggered process. Upon entry into the first triggered process, the processing module 912 is configured to monitor for a cascading process trigger during the first triggered process. For example, a cascading process trigger may cause the processing module 912 to instruct the gaming apparati 902, 904, 906 to cascade into a cascading triggered process from the first triggered process that is itself triggered from a main game process. In the exemplary embodiment, upon exiting the cascading triggered process, the gaming apparati 902, 904, 906 is instructed to continue implementation of the first triggered process (e.g. play of a next turn of the first triggered process). In the exemplary embodiment, upon exiting the first triggered process, the gaming apparati 902, 904, 906 is instructed to continue implementation of the main game process (e.g. play of a next turn of the main game process).

During execution of the one or more main games, the processor module 912 is capable of instructing play of the main games at the plurality of gaming apparati 902, 904, 906. In addition, the processor module 912 is capable of awarding a portion, or a whole, of the prize pool from the pool database 914 to players at respective gaming apparati 902, 904, 906. The processor module 912 awards the pool prizes based on results of e.g. extended game events and independent of the main games implemented on the respective gaming apparati 902, 904, 906. It will be appreciated that the game system 900 thus provides a distributed gaming environment with a centralized game database for awarding prizes to players on the respective gaming apparati 902, 904, 906.

In the above exemplary embodiment, the one or more process triggers and/or one or more main game process instructions and/or one or more first process trigger conditions and/or one or more first triggered process instructions and/or one or more cascading process trigger conditions and/or one or more cascading triggered process instructions for instructing the gaming apparati e.g. 902, 904, 906 are described as being stored in a database 910 of a game unit 908 and is accessible by the gaming apparati e.g. 902, 904, 906. It will be appreciated that the described exemplary embodiments are not limited as such and the one or more process triggers and/or one or more main game process instructions and/or one or more first process trigger conditions and/or one or more first triggered process instructions and/or one or more cascading process trigger conditions and/or one or more cascading triggered process instructions for instructing the gaming apparati e.g. 902, 904, 906 may be stored stand-alone within each gaming apparatus, for example in a storage device 132 of a gaming machine 100 described with reference to FIG. 1 B.

In the described exemplary embodiments, the inventors have recognized that a first triggered process that cascades into a cascading triggered process, i.e. having a feature game (that is itself triggered from a main game) that may trigger another feature game (that may be in the form of a free spin or jackpot-type game) can usefully providing a technical effect of prolonging a player/user time at a gaming apparatus. This may enhance enjoyment and entertainment at the gaming apparatus. The triggering of the first triggered process and of the cascading triggered process may be randomly or based on a predetermined condition such as based on a game output result of a main game (for the first triggered process) or of the first triggered process (for the cascading triggered process).

In the described exemplary embodiments, a player may prolong game play due to a first triggered process game and a cascading triggered process game that cascades from the first triggered process game. For example, after exiting the cascading triggered process, the player may be returned to the first triggered process with a possibility of triggering a cascading process trigger again and entering the cascading triggered process again, thus prolonging game play for the player within the first triggered process and/or the cascading triggered process. As such, it is possible to provide enhanced entertainment and enjoyment to the player.

Furthermore, it is possible to provide, e.g. from a main game, a relatively larger amount of e.g. input entities for participation in a triggered process (either a first triggered process or a cascading triggered process). This may further prolong the player’s participation in the first triggered process and/or the cascading triggered process. For example, if a player/user is awarded a relatively large number of free games (such as pinballs for the first triggered process), the player/user may look forward to e.g. hitting a jackpot-type game feature (such as a spin win from the cascading triggered process).

Different exemplary embodiments can be implemented in the context of data structure, program modules, program and computer instructions executed in a computer implemented environment. A general purpose computing environment is briefly disclosed herein. One or more exemplary embodiments may be embodied in one or more computer systems, such as is schematically illustrated in FIG. 10.

One or more exemplary embodiments may be implemented as software, such as a computer program being executed within a computer system 1000, and instructing the computer system 1000 to conduct a method of an exemplary embodiment.

The computer system 1000 comprises a computer unit 1002, input modules such as a keyboard 1004 and a pointing device 1006 and a plurality of output devices such as a display 1008, and printer 1010. A user can interact with the computer unit 1002 using the above devices. The pointing device can be implemented with a mouse, track ball, pen device or any similar device. One or more other input devices (not shown) such as a joystick, game pad, satellite dish, scanner, touch sensitive screen or the like can also be connected to the computer unit 1002. Such input devices may function as player input devices/modules arranged to accept a player input. The display 1008 may include a cathode ray tube (CRT), liquid crystal display (LCD), field emission display (FED), plasma display or any other device that produces an image that is viewable by the user.

The computer unit 1002 can be connected to a computer network 1012 via a suitable transceiver device 1014, to enable access to e.g. the Internet or other network systems such as Local Area Network (LAN) or Wide Area Network (WAN) or a personal network. The network 1012 can comprise a server, a router, a network personal computer, a peer device or other common network node, a wireless telephone or wireless personal digital assistant. Networking environments may be found in offices, enterprise-wide computer networks and home computer systems etc. The transceiver device 1014 can be a modem/router unit located within or external to the computer unit 1002, and may be any type of modem/router such as a cable modem or a satellite modem.

It will be appreciated that network connections shown are exemplary and other ways of establishing a communications link between computers can be used. The existence of any of various protocols, such as TCP/IP, Frame Relay, Ethernet, FTP, HTTP and the like, is presumed, and the computer unit 1002 can be operated in a client-server configuration to permit a user to retrieve web pages from a web-based server. Furthermore, any of various web browsers can be used to display and manipulate data on web pages.

The computer unit 1002 in the example comprises a processor 1018, a Random Access Memory (RAM) 1020 and a Read Only Memory (ROM) 1022. The ROM 1022 can be a system memory storing basic input/ output system (BIOS) information. The RAM 1020 can store one or more program modules such as operating systems, application programs and program data.

The processor 1018 may function as a processing module to, amongst others, award a win value associated with a game output result; implement a main game process; monitor for a first process trigger within the main game process; based on detection of the first process trigger, implement a first triggered process; monitor for a cascading process trigger within the first triggered process; based on detection of the cascading process trigger, implement a cascading triggered process, the cascading triggered process cascading from the first triggered process; determine whether the cascading triggered process has ended, and if it is determined that the cascading triggered process has ended, return to continue implementation of the first triggered process. The processor 1018 may also function as a processing module to determine whether the first triggered process has ended, and if it is determined that the first triggered process has ended, to return to continue implementation of the main game process.

The processor 1018 may also perform as, or instruct functions, of a random number generator to output a game output result e.g. for the main game process, the first triggered process and/or the cascading triggered process.

The RAM 1020 may store one or more process triggers and/or one or more main game process instructions and/or one or more first process trigger conditions and/or one or more first triggered process instructions and/or one or more cascading process trigger conditions and/or one or more cascading triggered process instructions for instructing the processor 1018 to perform an action, for changing the state of the computer system 1000. The RAM 1020 may store a credits database/meter and a game points database/meter.

The computer unit 1002 further comprises a number of Input/Output (I/O) interface units, for example I/O interface unit 1024 to the display 1008, and I/O interface unit 1026 to the keyboard 1004. The components of the computer unit 1002 typically communicate and interface/couple connectedly via an interconnected system bus 1028 and in a manner known to the person skilled in the relevant art. The bus 1028 can be any of several types of bus structures including a memory bus or memory controller, a peripheral bus, and a local bus using any of a variety of bus architectures.

It will be appreciated that other devices can also be connected to the system bus 1028. For example, a universal serial bus (USB) interface can be used for coupling a video or digital camera to the system bus 1028. An IEEE 1394 interface may be used to couple additional devices to the computer unit 1002. Other manufacturer interfaces are also possible such as FireWire developed by Apple Computer and i.Link developed by Sony. Coupling of devices to the system bus 1028 can also be via a parallel port, a game port, a PCI board or any other interface used to couple an input device to a computer. It will also be appreciated that, while the components are not shown in the figure, sound/audio can be recorded and reproduced with a microphone and a speaker. A sound card may be used to couple a microphone and a speaker to the system bus 1028. It will be appreciated that several peripheral devices can be coupled to the system bus 1028 via alternative interfaces simultaneously.

An application program can be supplied to the user of the computer system 1000 being encoded/stored on a data storage medium such as a CD-ROM or flash memory carrier. The application program can be read using a corresponding data storage medium drive of a data storage device 1030. The data storage medium is not limited to being portable and can include instances of being embedded in the computer unit 1002. The data storage device 1030 can comprise a hard disk interface unit and/or a removable memory interface unit (both not shown in detail) respectively coupling a hard disk drive and/or a removable memory drive to the system bus 1028. This can enable reading/writing of data. Examples of removable memory drives include magnetic disk drives and optical disk drives. The drives and their associated computer-readable media, such as a floppy disk provide nonvolatile storage of computer readable instructions, data structures, program modules and other data for the computer unit 1002. It will be appreciated that the computer unit 1002 may include several of such drives. Furthermore, the computer unit 1002 may include drives for interfacing with other types of computer readable media.

The application program is read and controlled in its execution by the processor 1018. Intermediate storage of program data may be accomplished using RAM 1020. The method(s) of the exemplary embodiments can be implemented as computer readable instructions, computer executable components, or software modules. One or more software modules may alternatively be used. These can include an executable program, a data link library, a configuration file, a database, a graphical image, a binary data file, a text data file, an object file, a source code file, or the like. When one or more computer processors execute one or more of the software modules, the software modules interact to cause one or more computer systems to perform according to the teachings herein.

The operation of the computer unit 1002 can be controlled by a variety of different program modules. Examples of program modules are routines, programs, objects, components, data structures, libraries, etc. that perform particular tasks or implement particular abstract data types. The exemplary embodiments may also be practiced with other computer system configurations, including handheld devices, multiprocessor systems, microprocessor-based or programmable consumer electronics, network PCs, minicomputers, mainframe computers, personal digital assistants, mobile telephones and the like. Furthermore, the exemplary embodiments may also be practiced in distributed computing environments where tasks are performed by remote processing devices that are linked through a wireless or wired communications network. In a distributed computing environment, program modules may be located in both local and remote memory storage devices.

Further to the above, different exemplary embodiments can be implemented in the context of data structure, program modules, program and computer instructions executed in a communication device. An exemplary communication device is briefly disclosed herein. One or more exemplary embodiments may be embodied in one or more communication devices e.g. 1 100, such as is schematically illustrated in FIG. 1 1.

One or more exemplary embodiments may be implemented as software, such as a computer program being executed within a communication device 1 100, and instructing the communication device 1 100 to conduct a method of an exemplary embodiment.

The communication device 1 100 comprises a processor module 1 102, an input module such as a touchscreen interface or a keypad 1 104 and an output module such as a display 1 106 on a touchscreen.

The processor module 1 102 is coupled to a first communication unit 1 108 for communication with a cellular network 1 1 10. The first communication unit 1 108 can include, but is not limited to, a subscriber identity module (SIM) card loading bay. The cellular network 1 1 10 can, for example, be a 3G or 4G network.

The processor module 1 102 is further coupled to a second communication unit 1 1 12 for connection to a network 1 1 14. For example, the second communication unit 1 1 12 can enable access to e.g. the Internet or other network systems such as Local Area Network (LAN) or Wide Area Network (WAN) or a personal network. The network 1 1 14 can comprise a server, a router, a network personal computer, a peer device or other common network node, a wireless telephone or wireless personal digital assistant. Networking environments may be found in offices, enterprise-wide computer networks and home computer systems etc. The second communication unit 1 1 12 can include, but is not limited to, a wireless network card or an eternet network cable port. The second communication unit 1 1 12 can also be a modem/router unit and may be any type of modem/router such as a cable-type modem or a satellite-type modem.

It will be appreciated that network connections shown are exemplary and other ways of establishing a communications link between computers can be used. The existence of any of various protocols, such as TCP/IP, Frame Relay, Ethernet, FTP, HTTP and the like, is presumed, and the communication device 1 100 can be operated in a client-server configuration to permit a user to retrieve web pages from a web-based server. Furthermore, any of various web browsers can be used to display and manipulate data on web pages.

The processor module 1 102 in the example includes a processor 1 1 16, a Random Access Memory (RAM) 1 1 18 and a Read Only Memory (ROM) 1 120. The ROM 1 120 can be a system memory storing basic input/ output system (BIOS) information. The RAM 1 1 18 can store one or more program modules such as operating systems, application programs and program data.

The processor 1 1 16 may function as a processing module to, amongst others, award a win value associated with a game output result; implement a main game process; monitor for a first process trigger within the main game process; based on detection of the first process trigger, implement a first triggered process; monitor for a cascading process trigger within the first triggered process; based on detection of the cascading process trigger, implement a cascading triggered process, the cascading triggered process cascading from the first triggered process; determine whether the cascading triggered process has ended, and if it is determined that the cascading triggered process has ended, return to continue implementation of the first triggered process. The processor 1 1 16 may also function as a processing module to determine whether the first triggered process has ended, and if it is determined that the first triggered process has ended, to return to continue implementation of the main game process. The processor 1 1 16 may also perform as, or instruct functions, of a random number generator to output a game output result e.g. for the main game process, the first triggered process and/or the cascading triggered process.

The RAM 1 1 18 may store one or more process triggers and/or one or more main game process instructions and/or one or more first process trigger conditions and/or one or more first triggered process instructions and/or one or more cascading process trigger conditions and/or one or more cascading triggered process instructions for instructing the processor 1 1 16 to perform an action, for changing the state of the communication device 1 100. The RAM 1 1 18 may store a credits database/meter and a game points database/meter.

The processor module 1 102 also includes a number of Input/Output (I/O) interfaces, for example I/O interface 1 122 to the display 1 106, and I/O interface 1 124 to the keypad 1 104.

The components of the processor module 1 102 typically communicate and interface/couple connectedly via an interconnected bus 1 126 and in a manner known to the person skilled in the relevant art. The bus 1 126 can be any of several types of bus structures including a memory bus or memory controller, a peripheral bus, and a local bus using any of a variety of bus architectures.

It will be appreciated that other devices can also be connected to the system bus 1 126. For example, a universal serial bus (USB) interface can be used for coupling an accessory of the communication device, such as a card reader, to the system bus 1 126.

The application program is typically supplied to the user of the communication device 1 100 encoded on a data storage medium such as a flash memory module or memory card/stick and read utilising a corresponding memory reader-writer of a data storage device 1 128. The data storage medium is not limited to being portable and can include instances of being embedded in the communication device 1 100. The application program is read and controlled in its execution by the processor 1 1 16. Intermediate storage of program data may be accomplished using RAM 1 1 18. The method(s) of the exemplary embodiments can be implemented as computer readable instructions, computer executable components, or software modules. One or more software modules may alternatively be used. These can include an executable program, a data link library, a configuration file, a database, a graphical image, a binary data file, a text data file, an object file, a source code file, or the like. When one or more processor modules execute one or more of the software modules, the software modules interact to cause one or more processor modules to perform according to the teachings herein.

The operation of the communication device 1 100 can be controlled by a variety of different program modules. Examples of program modules are routines, programs, objects, components, data structures, libraries, etc. that perform particular tasks or implement particular abstract data types.

The exemplary embodiments may also be practiced with other computer system configurations, including handheld devices, multiprocessor systems/servers, microprocessor-based or programmable consumer electronics, network PCs, minicomputers, mainframe computers, personal digital assistants, mobile telephones and the like. Furthermore, the exemplary embodiments may also be practiced in distributed computing environments where tasks are performed by remote processing devices that are linked through a wireless or wired communications network. In a distributed computing environment, program modules may be located in both local and remote memory storage devices.

The terms "coupled" or "connected" as used in this description are intended to cover both directly connected or connected through one or more intermediate means, unless otherwise stated.

The description herein may be, in certain portions, explicitly or implicitly described as algorithms and/or functional operations that operate on data within a computer memory or an electronic circuit. These algorithmic descriptions and/or functional operations are usually used by those skilled in the information/data processing arts for efficient description. An algorithm is generally relating to a self-consistent sequence of steps leading to a desired result. The algorithmic steps can include physical manipulations of physical quantities, such as electrical, magnetic or optical signals capable of being stored, transmitted, transferred, combined, compared, and otherwise manipulated.

Further, unless specifically stated otherwise, and would ordinarily be apparent from the following, a person skilled in the art will appreciate that throughout the present specification, discussions utilizing terms such as “scanning”, “calculating”, “determining”, “replacing”,“generating”,“initializing”,“outpu tting”, and the like, refer to action and processes of an instructing processor/computer system, or similar electronic circuit/device/component, that manipulates/processes and transforms data represented as physical quantities within the described system into other data similarly represented as physical quantities within the system or other information storage, transmission or display devices etc.

The description also discloses relevant device/apparatus for performing the steps of the described methods. Such apparatus may be specifically constructed for the purposes of the methods, or may comprise a general purpose computer/processor or other device selectively activated or reconfigured by a computer program stored in a storage member. The algorithms and displays described herein are not inherently related to any particular computer or other apparatus. It is understood that general purpose devices/machines may be used in accordance with the teachings herein. Alternatively, the construction of a specialized device/apparatus to perform the method steps may be desired.

In addition, it is submitted that the description also implicitly covers a computer program, in that it would be clear that the steps of the methods described herein may be put into effect by computer code. It will be appreciated that a large variety of programming languages and coding can be used to implement the teachings of the description herein. Moreover, the computer program if applicable is not limited to any particular control flow and can use different control flows without departing from the scope of the invention.

Furthermore, one or more of the steps of the computer program if applicable may be performed in parallel and/or sequentially. Such a computer program if applicable may be stored on any computer readable medium. The computer readable medium may include storage devices such as magnetic or optical disks, memory chips, or other storage devices suitable for interfacing with a suitable reader/general purpose computer. In such instances, the computer readable storage medium is non-transitory. Such storage medium also covers all computer-readable media e.g. medium that stores data only for short periods of time and/or only in the presence of power, such as register memory, processor cache and Random Access Memory (RAM) and the like. The computer readable medium may even include a wired medium such as exemplified in the Internet system, or wireless medium such as exemplified in bluetooth technology. The computer program when loaded and executed on a suitable reader effectively results in an apparatus that can implement the steps of the described methods.

The exemplary embodiments may also be implemented as hardware modules. A module is a functional hardware unit designed for use with other components or modules. For example, a module may be implemented using digital or discrete electronic components, or it can form a portion of an entire electronic circuit such as an Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC). A person skilled in the art will understand that the exemplary embodiments can also be implemented as a combination of hardware and software modules.

Additionally, when describing some embodiments, the disclosure may have disclosed a method and/or process as a particular sequence of steps. However, unless otherwise required, it will be appreciated the method or process should not be limited to the particular sequence of steps disclosed. Other sequences of steps may be possible. The particular order of the steps disclosed herein should not be construed as undue limitations. Unless otherwise required, a method and/or process disclosed herein should not be limited to the steps being carried out in the order written. The sequence of steps may be varied and still remain within the scope of the disclosure.

Further, in the description herein, the word “substantially” whenever used is understood to include, but not restricted to, "entirely" or“completely” and the like. In addition, terms such as "comprising", "comprise", and the like whenever used, are intended to be non restricting descriptive language in that they broadly include elements/components recited after such terms, in addition to other components not explicitly recited. For an example, when“comprising” is used, reference to a“one” feature is also intended to be a reference to “at least one” of that feature. Terms such as“consisting”,“consist”, and the like, may, in the appropriate context, be considered as a subset of terms such as "comprising", "comprise", and the like. Therefore, in embodiments disclosed herein using the terms such as "comprising", "comprise", and the like, it will be appreciated that these embodiments provide teaching for corresponding embodiments using terms such as“consisting”,“consist”, and the like. Further, terms such as "about", "approximately" and the like whenever used, typically means a reasonable variation, for example a variation of +/- 5% of the disclosed value, or a variance of 4% of the disclosed value, or a variance of 3% of the disclosed value, a variance of 2% of the disclosed value or a variance of 1% of the disclosed value.

Furthermore, in the description herein, certain values may be disclosed in a range. The values showing the end points of a range are intended to illustrate a preferred range. Whenever a range has been described, it is intended that the range covers and teaches all possible sub-ranges as well as individual numerical values within that range. That is, the end points of a range should not be interpreted as inflexible limitations. For example, a description of a range of 1% to 5% is intended to have specifically disclosed sub-ranges 1% to 2%, 1% to 3%, 1% to 4%, 2% to 3% etc., as well as individually, values within that range such as 1%, 2%, 3%, 4% and 5%. The intention of the above specific disclosure is applicable to any depth/breadth of a range.

In the exemplary embodiments, a side/feature game is described as a game within a triggered process or as a triggered process game. It will be appreciated that a side/feature game may not need to be limited to being a different game visually from a main game or another triggered process game. The exemplary embodiments are intended to have three game states, a normal game play/process (i.e. a main game or for example, a normal reel spin game), a first triggered process and a cascading triggered process that cascades from the first triggered process. The triggered process game(s) may refer to a game(s) that may visually present like a main game but with different backend rules such as a different RTP as compared to the main game. The triggered process game(s) may also refer to a game having special game features such as a free spin with a special win feature, a side game chance or a player-engaged feature etc. In the exemplary embodiments, the terms“game” and“process” such as main game and main game process may be used interchangeably. It is appreciated that a game process is broader and comprises a game. A game process may comprise other elements such as displaying of different animation, awarding of game credits or game points or both, outputting of audio etc. In many instances, however, references to a game and a game process may be the same. For example, references to a game output result of a game and a game output result of a game process may be the same.

In the exemplary embodiments, game credits, game points or a combination of both game credits or game points may be awarded from a main game output result, and/or a first triggered process output result and/or a cascading triggered process output result. It will be appreciated that an award of game credits may be termed a game credits win value and an award of game points may be termed a game points win value.

In the exemplary embodiments, for the examples that show the first process trigger and/or the cascading process trigger being based on a game output result, it will be appreciated that a game output result may broadly encompass also a player actuation. That is, a game output result is not limited to a processing module instructing an output result of a game. The first process trigger and/or the cascading process trigger may be based on a player actuation. For example, for a game of skill, the first process trigger and/or the cascading process trigger may be based on a user/player attempting or completing an action such as via a touch screen or mechanical actuator.

In the described exemplary embodiments, the terms“meter” and“database” are used interchangeably. The various functions of the respective meters/database should be interpreted as they are described. For example, a credits database may contain credits converted from a game points database as well as a player’s deposit of credits. For example, a game points database may contain game points win values of game output results from a main game, a first triggered process or a cascading triggered process.

It will be appreciated that the gaming apparatus/machine described in the exemplary embodiments are not limited to the forms as illustrated in the description. The exemplary embodiments may also be implemented with gaming machines such as slot machines or electronic gaming machines (EGMs).

Furthermore, it will be appreciated that in the exemplary embodiments, the accumulated value in the credits database, the game points database or both may be used to redeem non-credit and non-monetary prizes for a player.

In addition, in the exemplary embodiments, the accumulated value in the credits database may be returned to the player or player account and may be used to play future games. However, in some exemplary embodiments, such credits of the player account may not be able to be exchanged into cash, money or credits. That is, such exemplary embodiments may be implemented for non-gambling purposes.

It will be appreciated by a person skilled in the art that other variations and/or modifications may be made to the specific embodiments without departing from the scope of the invention as broadly described. For example, in the description herein, features of different exemplary embodiments may be mixed, combined, interchanged, incorporated, adopted, modified, included etc. or the like across different exemplary embodiments. The present embodiments are, therefore, to be considered in all respects to be illustrative and not restrictive.