Method for gambling games of variable duration

Abstract

A method for wagering on a gaming device where players purchase a session as opposed to an individual game. Within a session, players have multiple winning opportunities and may be allowed to play a plurality of traditional games to maximize their returns. In one preferred embodiment, the session length is unknown at the time of wager and the game session is ended only when a predetermined or variable number of game termination symbols occur. In other embodiments players may decide the nature of their game terminating events. During a session players may also accumulate tools for use in subsequent game segments.

Description

[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10 / 719,344 filed Nov. 21, 2003, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0002] The invention relates to gaming machines generally, and in particular to methods of wagering on gambling devices for a predetermined, variable or indeterminate period of time or session length. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0003] Gambling devices, such as slot machines, allow players to wager something of value in the hopes of winning something of greater value. Originally slot machines were mechanical devices employing three physical reels with various symbols painted or affixed to them. Upon inserting a coin and pulling a spring-loaded handle, the reels were set in motion and players were paid (or not) depending upon where the reels stopped and which symbols were displayed across the display portion of the machine. [0004] Slot machines have evolved greatly since the original gami...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0026] It is one aspect of the present invention to provide a guaranteed amount of playing time on a gaming device. Unlike the complicated methods used in the past to secure greater time on device, this invention is straightforward and easily implemented and additional game time may be won or extended based on a player's success.

[0027] The present invention thus promotes player interaction and once initiated, is not “credit” dependent. Thus, this invention is much better than an autoplay device, which is really no better than wedging a toothpick in a play button of an electronic video slot machine. Further, in another aspect of the present invention, a player is only required to make a single wager to play multiple games. This is a significant improvement over games offering side bets or multiple bets.

Problems solved by technology

The problem with autoplay gambling devices is that they are not interactive.

Autoplay does not offer the same excitement of playing manually.

The drawback is each additional hand requires an additional wager, which can quickly become an expensive game for a typical player.

Tournaments can also be an inconvenient hassle.

Again, tournaments are marketing promotions and not self-managing gaming devices.

This can be intimidating for those who prefer to play solo and / or out of the limelight.

Each game costs a certain amount to play and unless a player has sufficient credits available, another game cannot be played, thus extremely limiting the time allowed on a particular gaming device.

One problem with high hit frequencies is that player returns become meaningless.

While time on device is generally lengthened, betting 90 to win 20 eventually becomes tedious and boring.

Another problem of multi-line, multiple coin-per-line games is confusing math.

This type of gaming configuration is confusing to most players, and assessing the outcome can slow down or significantly reduce play.

The gaming industry recognizes the need for greater time on device, but has not identified a practical or cost effective method of how to provide it.

There are many problems with this approach, but it shows how important it is for casino operators to elicit time on device from players.

Harrah's method is neither convenient for players or the casino.

It might take weeks to receive a reimbursement check, so these funds are not immediately available for rewagering.

This method is thus time consuming and burdensome for the casino and players that use the casino's facilities.

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