US20110212785A1

US20110212785A1 - Presenting content in wagering game systems

Info

Publication number: US20110212785A1
Application number: US13/128,235
Authority: US
Inventors: Damon E. Gura; Budyanto Himawan
Original assignee: WMS Gaming Inc
Current assignee: LNW Gaming Inc
Priority date: 2008-11-13
Filing date: 2009-11-12
Publication date: 2011-09-01
Also published as: WO2010056924A1

Abstract

A wagering game system and its operations are described herein. In some embodiments, the operations can include coordinating presentation of media in a plurality of browsers of one or more wagering game machines. The operations can include subscribing a first browser and a second browser of a wagering game machine to a communication channel; presenting media for a wagering game in the first browser of the wagering game machine; requesting a result for the wagering game; presenting media for the wagering game result in the first browser; and determining that the wagering game result triggers a bonus game in the second browser. The operations can also include notifying the second browser of the wagering game machine of the bonus game trigger via the communication channel to cause the second browser to present media for the bonus game.

Description

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the priority benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/114,121 filed Nov. 13, 2008.

LIMITED COPYRIGHT WAIVER

A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains material which is subject to copyright protection. The copyright owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent disclosure, as it appears in the Patent and Trademark Office patent files or records, but otherwise reserves all copyright rights whatsoever. Copyright 2009, WMS Gaming, Inc.

FIELD

Embodiments of the inventive subject matter relate generally to wagering game systems, and more particularly to presenting content in wagering game systems.

BACKGROUND

Wagering game machines, such as slot machines, video poker machines and the like, have been a cornerstone of the gaming industry for several years. Generally, the popularity of such machines depends on the likelihood (or perceived likelihood) of winning money at the machine and the intrinsic entertainment value of the machine relative to other available gaming options. Where the available gaming options include a number of competing wagering game machines and the expectation of winning at each machine is roughly the same (or believed to be the same), players are likely to be attracted to the most entertaining and exciting machines. Shrewd operators consequently strive to employ the most entertaining and exciting machines, features, and enhancements available because such machines attract frequent play and hence increase profitability to the operator. Therefore, there is a continuing need for wagering game machine manufacturers to continuously develop new games and gaming enhancements that will attract frequent play.

SUMMARY

In some embodiments, a computer-implemented method for coordinating presentation of media in a plurality of browsers of one or more wagering game machines comprises subscribing a first browser and a second browser of a first wagering game machine to a communication channel; presenting media for a wagering game in the first browser of the first wagering game machine; requesting a result for the wagering game; presenting media for the wagering game result in the first browser; determining that the wagering game result triggers a bonus game in the second browser; and notifying the second browser of the first wagering game machine of the bonus game trigger via the communication channel to cause the second browser to present media for the bonus game.
In some embodiments, said subscribing the first and second browsers of the first wagering game machine to the communication channel comprises subscribing the first and second browsers to a remote shared object of a remote server to establish the communication channel for the first and second browsers.
In some embodiments, said notifying the second browser comprises calling the remote shared object of the remote server to cause the remote server to broadcast a bonus game trigger notification message to the second browser via the communication channel and the second browser to present media for the bonus game.
In some embodiments, said subscribing the first and second browsers to the remote shared object of the remote server comprises subscribing a first browser application, including a first browser plug-in, used to present media in a first display device of the first wagering game machine to the remote shared object, and subscribing a second browser application, including a second browser plug-in, used to present media in a second display device of the first wagering game machine to the remote shared object.
In some embodiments, the method further comprises subscribing the first and second browsers of the first wagering game machine to a second communication channel also subscribed to by a first browser and a second browser of one or more additional wagering game machines; presenting media for a wagering game in the first browser of the first wagering game machine; requesting a result for the wagering game; presenting media for the wagering game result in the first browser; determining that the wagering game result triggers a bonus game in the second browser of the first wagering game machine and in the second browser of the one or more additional wagering game machines; and notifying the second browser of the first wagering game machine and the second browser of the one or more additional wagering game machines of the bonus game trigger via the second communication channel to cause the second browser of the first wagering game machine and the second browser of the one or more additional wagering game machines to present media for the bonus game.
In some embodiments, said subscribing the first and second browsers of the first wagering game machine to the second communication channel comprises subscribing the first and second browsers of the first wagering game machine to a second remote shared object of a remote server also subscribed to by the first and second browsers of the one or more additional wagering game machines to establish the second communication channel for the first and second browsers of the first wagering game machine and the first and second browsers of the one or more additional wagering game machines.
In some embodiments, the method further comprises notifying a browser of an online wagering game machine, subscribed to the communication channel, of the bonus game trigger via a community server associated with the online wagering game machine to cause the browser of the online wagering game machine to present media for the bonus game.
In some embodiments, a wagering game machine comprises a media presentation unit configured to subscribe a first browser and a second browser of the wagering game machine to a communication channel managed by a remote server, and to present media for a wagering game in the first browser of the wagering game machine. The media presentation unit can also request a result for the wagering game from the remote server, present media for the wagering game result in the first browser. The wagering game machine can also include and an event management unit configured to determine that the wagering game result triggers a bonus game in the second browser, and to notify the second browser of the wagering game machine of the bonus game trigger via the communication channel to cause the second browser to present media for the bonus game.
In some embodiments, the media presentation unit is configured to subscribe the first and second browsers to a remote shared object at the remote server to establish the communication channel for the first and second browsers.
In some embodiments, the event management unit is configured to notify the second browser by calling the remote shared object of the remote server to cause the remote server to broadcast a bonus game trigger notification message to the second browser via the communication channel and the second browser to present media for the bonus game.
In some embodiments, the media presentation unit is configured to subscribe the first browser, including a first browser plug-in used to present media in a first display device of the first wagering game machine, to the remote shared object, and to subscribe the second browser, including a second browser plug-in, used to present media in a second display device of the first wagering game machine, to the remote shared object.
In some embodiments, an apparatus for managing communications between a plurality of wagering game machines in a network to coordinate presentation of media between a plurality of browsers of the wagering game machines comprises means for detecting subscription requests for a communication channel from a plurality of browsers of a plurality of wagering game machines; means for granting the subscription requests for the communication channel; means for detecting a game event trigger notification message from one of the plurality of browsers of a first wagering game machine of the plurality of wagering game machines; and means for broadcasting the game event trigger notification message to the plurality of browsers of the plurality of wagering game machines to cause one the browsers of each of the wagering game machines to present media associated with a game event detected in the first wagering game machine.
In some embodiments, said means for granting the subscription requests for the communication channel comprises means for subscribing the plurality of browsers of the plurality of wagering game machines to a remote shared object to establish the communication channel for the browsers of the wagering game machines.
In some embodiments, the media associated with the game event comprises a media presentation for a bonus game or a media presentation for a progressive jackpot celebration.
In some embodiments, the apparatus further comprises means for detecting a game event trigger notification message from one of the plurality of browsers of a second wagering game machine of the plurality of wagering game machines; and means for broadcasting the game event trigger notification message to the plurality of browsers of the plurality of wagering game machines to cause one the browsers of each of the wagering game machines to present media associated with a game event detected in the second wagering game machine.
Some embodiments include a computer-implemented method for coordinating presentation of media in a plurality of browsers of a plurality of wagering game machines in a network. The method comprises subscribing a first browser and a second browser of a first wagering game machine to a communication channel also subscribed to by a first browser and a second browser of one or more additional wagering game machines, the communication channel being managed by a remote server; presenting media for a wagering game in the first browser of the first wagering game machine; requesting a result for the wagering game from the remote server; presenting media for the wagering game result in the first browser; determining that the wagering game result triggers a media presentation of game-related content in the second browser of the first wagering game machine and the second browser of the one or more additional wagering game machines; and notifying the second browser of the first wagering game machine and the second browser of the one or more additional wagering game machines of the media presentation trigger via the communication channel to cause the second browser of the first wagering game machine and the second browser of the one or more additional wagering game machines to present media for the game-related content.
In some embodiments, said subscribing the first and second browsers of the first wagering game machine to the communication channel comprises subscribing the first and second browsers of the first wagering game machine to a remote shared object of the remote server also subscribed to by the first and second browsers of the one or more additional wagering game machines to establish the communication channel for the first and second browsers of the first wagering game machine and the first and second browsers of the one or more additional wagering game machines.
In some embodiments, said notifying the second browser of the first wagering game machine and the second browser of the one or more additional wagering game machines of the media presentation trigger via the communication channel causes the second browser of the first wagering game machine to present an instance of a bonus game and causes the second browser of each of the one or more additional wagering game machines to present an instance of the bonus game.
In some embodiments, said notifying the second browser of the first wagering game machine and the second browser of the one or more additional wagering game machines of the media presentation trigger via the communication channel causes the second browser of the first wagering game machine and the second browser of the one or more additional wagering game machines to present a single instance of a bonus game across the browsers of the wagering game machines.
In some embodiments, the method further comprises detecting a notification message notifying the second browser of the media presentation trigger; and presenting a portion of the bonus game in the second browser of the first wagering game machine, where the remaining portion of the bonus game is presented across the second browser of the one or more additional wagering game machines.
In some embodiments, said notifying the second browser of the first wagering game machine and the second browser of the one or more additional wagering game machines of the media presentation trigger via the communication channel causes the second browser of the first wagering game machine to present a progressive jackpot celebration and causes the second browser of each of the one or more additional wagering game machines to present a progressive jackpot celebration.
In some embodiments, one or more machine-readable media having instructions stored thereon, which when executed by a set of one or more processors causes the set of one or more processors to perform operations comprises subscribing a first browser and a second browser of a wagering game machine to a communication channel managed by a remote server; presenting media for a wagering game in the first browser of the wagering game machine; requesting a result for the wagering game from the remote server; presenting media for the wagering game result in the first browser; determining that the wagering game result triggers a bonus game in the second browser; and notifying the second browser of the wagering game machine of the bonus game trigger via the communication channel to cause the second browser to present media for the bonus game.
In some embodiments, the program product when executed causes the set of one or more processor units to perform operations that comprise subscribing the first and second browsers to a remote shared object of the remote server to establish the communication channel for the first and second browsers.
In some embodiments, the program product when executed causes the set of one or more processor units to perform operations that comprise calling the remote shared object of the remote server to cause the remote server to broadcast a bonus game trigger notification message to the second browser via the communication channel and the second browser to present media for the bonus game.
In some embodiments, the program product when executed causes the set of one or more processor units to perform operations that comprise detecting a player input for a wagering game in the first browser of the wagering game machine and presenting media for the wagering game in the first browser in response to detecting the player input for the wagering game.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

Embodiments of the invention are illustrated in the Figures of the accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1 is a conceptual diagram that illustrates an example of a wagering game system architecture, according to some embodiments;

FIG. 2 is a is a flow diagram illustrating operations for coordinating the presentation of media on a plurality of browsers of a wagering game machine, according to some embodiments;

FIG. 3 is a is a flow diagram illustrating operations for managing communications associated with a plurality of browsers of a wagering game machine, according to some embodiments;

FIG. 4 is a is a flow diagram illustrating operations for coordinating the presentation of media on a plurality of browsers of a wagering game machine, according to some embodiments;

FIG. 5A-5D is a conceptual diagram illustrating a process for coordinating the presentation of media on a plurality of browsers of a plurality of wagering game machines, according to some embodiments;

FIG. 6 is a conceptual diagram that illustrates an example of a wagering game machine architecture, according to some embodiments; and

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a wagering game machine, according to some embodiments.

DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

This description of the embodiments is divided into five sections. The first section provides an introduction to embodiments of the inventive subject matter, while the second section describes example wagering game machine architectures. The third section describes example operations performed by some embodiments and the fourth section describes additional example operating environments. The fifth section presents some general comments.

Introduction

This section provides an introduction to some embodiments of the invention.
Wagering game systems offer wagering game players (“players”) entertainment value and the opportunity to win monetary value. In some implementations, wagering game systems can attempt to enhance the gaming experience by coordinating the presentation of media across a plurality of browsers of the wagering game machines. For example, a plurality of browsers within one or more wagering game machines can be coordinated to present game-related media, such as bonus games.
In one implementation, wagering game systems can coordinate the presentation of media across a plurality of browsers within a single wagering game machine. For example, a wagering game machine may include a first browser for a first display device to present base wagering games and a second browser for a second display device to present bonus games and other game-related media. In this example, a wagering game system can coordinate the presentation of bonus game media (or other game-related media) in the second browser based on trigger events associated with base wagering games presented in the first browser.
In another implementation, wagering game systems can coordinate the presentation of media across a plurality of browsers of a plurality of related wagering game machines. In one example, each of the plurality of related wagering game machines may include a first browser for a first display device and a second browser for a second display device. In this example, a wagering game system can coordinate the presentation of bonus game media (or other game-related media) on the second browsers of all of the related gaming machines based on trigger event(s) associated with a base wagering game presented on the first browser of any one of the related wagering game machines.
Although the above paragraphs describe some embodiments, the following sections describe many other features and embodiments.

Operating Environment

This section describes example operating environments and networks and presents structural aspects of some embodiments. More specifically, this section includes discussion about wagering game system architectures.
Wagering Game Machine Architectures
FIG. 1 is a conceptual diagram that illustrates an example of a wagering game system architecture 100, according to some embodiments. As illustrated, the wagering game system architecture 100 includes a game controller 110 and a plurality of wagering game machines 160. The game controller 110 is configured to control game content (e.g., game results) and communicate game-related information and other information (e.g., third-party services) to and from the plurality of wagering game machines 160. In one embodiment, the game controller 110 includes a game server 150, a progressive server 130, a third-party services server 140, a media communication server 120, and a community server 180.
The game server 150 is configured to manage and control content for presentation on the wagering game machines 160. For example, the game server 150 includes a game management unit 152 configured to generate (e.g., using a random numbers generator) game results (e.g., win/loss values), including win amounts, for games played on the wagering game machines 160 (e.g., slots, poker, roulette, bonus games, etc.). The game management unit 152 can communicate the game results to the wagering game machines 160 via the network 122. In some implementations, the game management unit 152 can also generate random numbers and provide them to the wagering game machines 160 so that the wagering game machines 160 can generate game results. The game management unit 152 may also provide other types of content, such as advertising, player messages, hotel and casino information, etc. The game server 150 can also include a content store 154 configured to store content used for presenting game events (e.g., pay tables, media files, etc.) and other information on the wagering game machines 160.
The progressive server 130 is configured to work in conjunction with the game server 150 to manage progressive jackpots for the wagering game system. For example, the progressive server 130 can monitor game results generated by the game server 150 and detect other game events to manage progressive jackpots. The progressive server 130 can also present progressive jackpot awards on the wagering game machines 160.
The third-party services server 140 is configured to provide the wagering game system access to third-party services, such as Internet-related services. For example, the wagering game system can access Internet services and information related to finances, social networking, news, weather, email, sports, travel, shopping, etc. In some implementations, the third-party services server 140 is configured to work in conjunction with the game server 150 to provide players access to online wagering games via the Internet.
The media communication server 120 is configured to manage communications between the wagering game machines 160 and the rest of the components of the game controller 110 (e.g., the game server 150), and also manage communications between the wagering game machines 160. In one example, the media communication server 120 receives a request message for game results from a first browser of a wagering game machine 160. In this example, the media communication server 120 routes the request message to the game server 150, receives game result information from the game server 150, and provides the game result information to the first browser of the wagering game machine 160. In another example, the media communication server 120 receives a trigger event notification message from a first browser of a first wagering game machine 160, which is subscribed to a communication channel (e.g., a broadcast channel) implemented in the media communication server 120. In this example, the media communication server 120 provides (e.g., broadcasts) the trigger event notification message to the browsers of one or more related wagering game machines 160, which are subscribed to the communication channel, to coordinate the presentation of media associated with the trigger event, such as a bonus game trigger.
In various embodiments, the media communication server 120 can create a remote shared object to establish a communication channel for a plurality of related browsers of one or more wagering game machines 160. In one example, the media communication server 120 creates the remote shared object, and therefore establishes the communication channel, when the plurality of related browsers subscribe to the communication server 120. Each of the related browsers can communicate (e.g., send trigger event notification messages) with the other related browsers via the communication channel by calling the remote shared object. For example, after the browser makes the call to the remote shared object, the media communication server 120 sends (e.g., broadcasts) a message to the related browsers. The media communication server 120 can create a plurality of remote shared objects to establish a communication channel for various sets of related browsers. For example, a first browser and a second browser implemented within the same wagering game machine 160 can subscribe to the same remote shared object to establish a communication channel between the browsers. In another example, a plurality of related browsers implemented within a plurality of wagering game machines 160 can all subscribe to another remote shared object to establish a communication channel between all the related browsers.
In some implementations, the media communication server 120 can be implemented using Adobe® Flash® Media Server. In this implementation, the browser applications of the wagering game machines 160 load a Flash® Player browser plug-in to communicate with the Flash® Media Server. The Flash® Media Server and the browsers can communicate using one or more protocols, e.g., real time messaging protocol (RTPM), Action Message Format (AMF) protocol, etc. It is noted, however, that in other embodiments the media communication server 120 can be implemented using other technologies and protocols to effectively manage communications associated with related browsers of a plurality of wagering game machines 160 to coordinate presentation of media on the browsers. It is noted that the browsers can be other types of display clients, e.g., Adobe® AIR runtime, which can be implemented within wagering game systems for presenting wagering game content. In other words, the techniques described herein for coordinating the presentation of media can be extended to other types of display technologies besides browsers.
The community server 180 is configured to provide a wide range of services to members of virtual gaming communities. For example, the community servers may allow players to:
Create Social Networks—When creating social networks, members can create electronic associations that inform network members when selected members are: 1) online, 2) performing activities, 3) reaching milestones, 4) etc.
Establish a Reputation—Community members can establish reputations based on feedback from other community members, based on accomplishments in the community, based on who is in their social network, etc.
Provide Content—Community members can provide content by uploading media, designing wagering games, maintaining blogs, etc.
Filter Content—Community members can filter content by rating content, commenting on content, or otherwise distinguishing content.
Interact with Other Members—Community members can interact via newsgroups, e-mail, discussion boards, instant messaging, etc.
Participate in Community Activities—Community members can participate in community activities, such as multi-player games, interactive meetings, discussion groups, real-life meetings, etc.
Connect Casino Players to Online Members—Community members who are playing in casinos can interact with members who are online. For example, online members may be able to: see activities of social contacts in the casino, chat with casino players, participate in community games involving casino players, etc.
The community server 180 is configured to work in conjunction with the media communication server 120 to implement the various services and features associated with the community server 180 into the techniques described herein for coordinating the presentation of media across multiple browsers. In some embodiments, the community server 180 enables online community members (e.g., operating a personal computer (PC) or a mobile device) to participate in and/or monitor wagering games that are being presented in one or more casinos. In one example, the community server 180 is configured to work in conjunction with the media communication server 120 to coordinate the presentation of media (e.g., bonus games, progressive jackpot celebrations, etc.) across one or more browsers of one or more wagering game machines within a casino and one or more browsers of one or more online community members outside the casino.
The community server 180 can enable community members to connect with and track each other. For example, the community server 180 can enable community members to select other members to be part of a social network. The community server 180 can also enable members of a social network to track what other social network members are doing in a virtual gaming community and a real-world casino. For example, in some implementations, the community server 180 assists in enabling members of a social network to see when network members are playing wagering game machines in a casino, accessing a virtual gaming community web site, achieving milestones (e.g., winning large wagers in a casino), etc.
The community server 180 can store and manage content for a virtual gaming community. For example, in some embodiments, the community server 180 can host a web site for a virtual gaming community. Additionally, the community server 180 can enable community members and administrators to add, delete, and/or modify content for virtual gaming communities. For example, the community server 180 can enable community members to post media files, member-designed games, commentaries, etc., all for consumption by members of a virtual gaming community.
The community server 180 can track behavior of community members. In some embodiments, the community server 180 tracks how individuals and/or groups use the services and content available in a virtual gaming community. The community server 180 can analyze member behavior and categorize community members based on their behavior. The community server 180 can configure network components to customize content based on individual and/or group habits.
The community server 180 can manage various promotions offered to members of a virtual gaming community. For example, the promotions community server 180 can distribute promotional material when members achieve certain accomplishments (e.g., scores for online games) in a virtual gaming community. Members may use some of the promotional material when playing wagering games in a casino.
The plurality of wagering game machines 160 are configured to manage and present wagering games, bonus games, and other media for players. As illustrated in FIG. 1, in some implementations, each of the wagering game machines 160 includes a media presentation unit 162 configured to control the presentation of media for wagering games and bonus games on the wagering game machine 160. The media presentation unit 162 can include a plurality of browsers 165 (including one or more browser plug-ins) and any other software and/or hardware suitable for presenting audio and video content. The media presentation unit 162 may receive, from the media communication server 120, content for presenting game results, and/or may request particular content from other network devices. In some embodiments, the media presentation unit 162 presents game results and other game media using content stored locally in the content store 164.
The wagering game machines 160 can also include an event management unit 166 configured to detect wagering game events that trigger the presentation of bonus games or other game-related media in one or more browsers of one or more related wagering game machines 160. In some embodiments, the event management unit 166 can reside in one of the browsers 165. The event management unit 166 may be configured to send trigger event notification messages to the one or more related wagering game machines 160 via the media communication server 120 to inform the wagering game machines of the occurrence of a trigger event, such as specific game results, player input, etc. The event management unit 166 can also be configured to detect trigger event notification messages sent (e.g., broadcast) by the media communication server 120.
In one embodiment, the wagering game machines 160 can be casino floor wagering game machines (wired and/or wireless). It is noted, however, that in other embodiments the wagering game machines 160 can be laptops, desktop PCs, mobile phones, personal digital assistants (PDAs), etc. that access the casino network, e.g., the community server 180 (and other network components), via the Internet.
Each component shown in the wagering game system architecture 100 is shown as a separate and distinct element connected via a communications network 122. However, some functions performed by one component could be performed by other components. For example, the game server 150 can also be configured to perform some or all of the functions of the third-party service server 140. Furthermore, the components shown may all be contained in one device, but some, or all, may be included in, or performed by multiple devices, as in the configurations shown in FIG. 1 or other configurations not shown. Furthermore, the wagering game system architecture 100 can be implemented as software, hardware, any combination thereof, or other forms of embodiments not listed. For example, any of the network components (e.g., the wagering game machines, servers, etc.) can include hardware and machine-readable media including instructions for performing the operations described herein. Machine-readable media includes any mechanism that provides (i.e., stores and/or transmits) information in a form readable by a machine (e.g., a wagering game machine, computer, etc.). For example, tangible machine-readable media includes read only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), magnetic disk storage media, optical storage media, flash memory machines, etc. Machine-readable media also includes any media suitable for transmitting software over a network.
Although FIG. 1 describes some embodiments, the following sections describe many other features and embodiments.

Example Operations

This section describes operations associated with some embodiments of the invention. In the discussion below, the flow diagrams will be described with reference to the block diagrams presented above. However, in some embodiments, the operations can be performed by logic not described in the block diagrams.
In certain embodiments, the operations can be performed by executing instructions residing on machine-readable media (e.g., software), while in other embodiments, the operations can be performed by hardware and/or other logic (e.g., firmware). In some embodiments, the operations can be performed in series, while in other embodiments, one or more of the operations can be performed in parallel. Moreover, some embodiments can perform less than all the operations shown in any flow diagram.
The following discussion of FIGS. 2-4 will describe interactions between a wagering game machine and a game controller. FIGS. 2 & 4 describe how some wagering game machines can use a communication channel in presenting wagering games. FIG. 3 describes how the game controller can host the communication channel and assist in presenting the wagering games.
FIG. 2 is a flow diagram 200 illustrating operations for coordinating the presentation of media on a plurality of browsers of a wagering game machine, according to some embodiments. The flow of 200 will be described with reference to the example system architecture of FIG. 1. The flow diagram begins at block 202.
At block 202, the wagering game machine 160 subscribes to a communication channel implemented in the media communication server 120. For example, the media presentation unit 162 subscribes a plurality of browsers 165 of the wagering game machine 160 to the communication channel. The wagering game machine may use one of the browsers to present a base game, while using another for presenting bonus games. In one specific example, the media communication server 120 creates a remote shared object to establish the communication channel for the plurality of browsers of the wagering game machine 160. In this example, the media presentation unit 162 subscribes the browsers to the remote shared object. When the media presentation unit 162 subscribes the browsers to the remote shared object, the media communication server 120 assigns game machine IDs, browser application IDs and other information used for managing communications (e.g., broadcast messages) via the communication channel. In one example, the wagering game machine 160 includes a first browser for a first display device (e.g., a wagering game display) and a second browser for a second display device (e.g., a bonus game display). In this example, the media presentation unit 162 subscribes the first and second browsers to the communication channel. After block 202, the flow continues at block 204.
At block 204, the wagering game machine 160 detects a player input that initiates a wagering game. In one example, the media presentation unit 162 detects a player input to initiate a wagering game. In response to detecting the player input, the media presentation unit 162 loads content associated with the wagering game (e.g., audio/video content) from the content store 164 and presents the content in the first browser. After block 204, the flow continues at block 206.
At block 206, the wagering game machine 160 requests a result for the wagering game. For example, the media presentation unit 162 sends a request message to the media communication server 120 for the wagering game result. In one example, the request message may include a machine ID and browser application ID associated with the first browser. The media communication server 120 routes the request message to the game server 150, which processes the request message. After block 206, the flow continues at block 208.
At block 208, the wagering game machine 160 receives the wagering game result (e.g., win/loss values). For example, the wagering game machine's media presentation unit 162 receives the result from the game controller's media communication server 120. In this example, the game server's game management unit 152 may determine the result. In one implementation, the media communication server 120 broadcasts the wagering game result to the media presentation unit 162 via the communication channel associated with the first browser. After block 208, the flow continues at block 210.
At block 210, the wagering game machine 160 determines that the wagering game result triggers a bonus game. In one implementation, the event management unit 166 of the wagering game machine 160 detects the wagering game result and determines that the result triggers a bonus game. For example, in video poker wagering games, some bonus game trigger events may be a royal flush, a full house, and a straight. In slots wagering games, certain combinations of reel results can be bonus game trigger events. It is noted, however, that various other types of game events can trigger the presentation of a bonus game, e.g., intermediate game results. After block 210, the flow continues at block 212.
At block 212, the wagering game machine 160 presents in the first browser media indicating the wagering game result. For example, the media presentation unit 162 presents in the first browser of the wagering game machine 160 media indicating the wagering game result. The media presentation can include audio and video content, such as graphics of spinning slots reels and bells. After block 212, the flow continues at block 214.
At block 214, the wagering game machine 160 notifies the second browser of the bonus game trigger via the communication channel to cause the second browser to present the bonus game. For example, the event management unit 166 sends a bonus game trigger notification message to the media communication server 120. The media communication server 120 sends (e.g., broadcasts) the bonus game trigger notification message to the media presentation unit 162 via the communication channel associated with the first and second browsers to cause the second browser to present the bonus game. In one specific implementation, to broadcast a bonus game trigger notification message, the event management unit 166 makes a method call to the remote shared object on the media communication server 120 associated with the first and second browsers. It is noted that the event management unit 166 can also send notification messages to related browsers for other events, e.g., intermediate game results, progressive jackpot celebration events, etc. After block 214, the flow ends. The process for presenting the bonus game in the second browser of the wagering game machine 160 will be described below with reference to FIG. 4.
While FIG. 2 describes embodiments in which wagering game machines send and receive information from a game controller, FIG. 3 describes how a game controller may respond. It is noted that in some implementations the game controller's media communication server 120 can create a remote shared object to establish a communication channel for a plurality of browsers of a first wagering game machine 160 (e.g., the first and second browsers) and a plurality of browsers of one or more related wagering game machines 160. In this example, the trigger event notification message can be broadcast to all of the related wagering game machines 160 that are subscribed to the communication channel to cause the bonus game to be presented in the second browsers of all the related wagering game machines 160.
FIG. 3 is a flow diagram 300 illustrating operations for managing communications associated with a plurality of browsers of a wagering game machine, according to some embodiments. The flow of 300 will be described with reference to the example system architecture of FIG. 1 and the example flow diagram of FIG. 2. The flow diagram begins at block 302.
At block 302, the media communication server 120 receives a message associated with a first browser of a wagering game machine 160 subscribed to a communication channel. In one example, the media communication server 120 can establish the communication channel by creating a remote shared object associated with the first browser and a second browser of the wagering game machine 160 (e.g., as was described above with reference to FIGS. 1-2). In this example, the media communication server 120 can create the remote shared object when the first and second browsers of the wagering game machine 160 subscribe with the media communication server 120. In one specific implementation, the media communication server 120 can receive the message from the media presentation unit 162 of the wagering game machine 160. After block 302, the flow continues at block 304.
At block 304, the media communication server 120 determines whether the message is a bonus game trigger notification message. If the message is a bonus game trigger notification message, the flow continues at block 306. Otherwise, the flow continues at block 316.
At block 306, the media communication server 120 sends the bonus game notification message to the second browser of the wagering game machine 160 via the communication channel. In one example, the media communication server 120 sends the bonus game notification message to the media presentation unit 162 associated with the second browser. In response to receiving the notification message, the media presentation unit 162 loads content associated with the bonus game from the content store 164 and presents the bonus game in the second browser. In some implementations, the media communication server 120 broadcasts the notification message to all of the related browsers that are subscribed to the communication channel. After block 306, the flow continues at block 308.
At block 308, the media communication server 120 receives a request message from the second browser requesting a result for the bonus game. In one example, the media presentation server 120 receives the request message from the media presentation unit 162 associated with the second browser. After block 308, the flow continues at block 310.
At block 310, the media communication server 120 sends the request message requesting the bonus game result to the game server 150. In one example, the media communication server 120 sends the request message to the game management unit 152 of the game server 150. After block 310, the flow continues at block 312.
At block 312, the media communication server 120 receives the bonus game result from the game server 150. In one example, the media communication server 120 receives the bonus game result from the game management unit 152 of the game server 150. After block 312, the flow continues at block 314.
At block 314, the media communication server 120 sends the bonus game result to the second browser of the wagering game machine 160. In one example, the media communication server 120 broadcasts the bonus game result to the media presentation unit 162 associated with the second browser via the communication channel. The media presentation unit 162 presents the bonus game result in the second browser. After block 314, the flow ends.
At block 316, if the received message is not a notification message, the media communication server 120 determines that the message is a request message requesting a result for a wagering game, i.e., a wagering game that is being presented in the first browser of the wagering game server 160. The media communication server 120 also determines that the request message is directed to one of the components of the game controller 110. For instance, in this example, the media communication server 120 determines that the message is a request message directed to the game server 150. After block 316, the flow continues at block 318.
At block 318, the media communication server 120 sends the request message to the game server 150. For example, the media communication server 120 sends the request message to the game management unit 152 of the game server 150. After block 318, the flow continues at block 320.
At block 320, the media communication server 120 receives the wagering game result from the game server 150. For example, the media communication server 120 receives the wagering game result from the game management unit 152 of the game server 150. After block 320, the flow continues at block 322.
At block 322, the media communication server 120 sends the wagering game result to the first browser of the wagering game machine 160 via the communication channel. For example, the media communications server 120 sends the wagering game result to the game presentation unit 162 associated with the first browser. In response to receiving the wagering game result, the game presentation unit 162 presents the wagering game result in the first browser of the wagering game machine 160. At block 322, the flow ends.
As noted above, FIGS. 2-3 describe interactions between a wagering game machine and a game controller. More specifically, how the wagering game machine utilized a communication channel hosted on the game controller. FIG. 4 builds on FIGS. 2 & 3 by showing how the wagering game machine uses a second browser to present a bonus game based on communications received from the game controller (shown in FIG. 3).
FIG. 4 is a flow diagram 400 illustrating operations for coordinating the presentation of media on a plurality of browsers of a wagering game machine, according to some embodiments. The flow of 400 will be described with reference to the example system architecture of FIG. 1 and the flow diagrams of FIGS. 2-3. The flow diagram begins at block 404.
At block 404, the wagering game machine 160 detects a bonus game trigger via the communication channel that initiates the bonus game. As described in FIG. 2, the wagering game machine has subscribed a plurality of browsers to a communication channel hosed by the game controller. Thus, the media presentation unit 162 can detect a bonus game trigger notification message that is broadcast via the communication channel. In response to detecting the bonus game trigger notification message, the media presentation unit 162 loads media content associated with the bonus game and presents the media for the bonus game in the second browser of the wagering game machine 160. In another example, the event management unit 166 of the wagering game machine 160 detects the bonus game trigger notification message and directs the media presentation unit 162 to present the bonus game. After block 404, the flow continues at block 406.
At block 406, the wagering game machine 160 requests a result for the bonus game. For example, the media presentation unit 162 sends a request message to the media communication server 120 to request the bonus game result. After block 406, the flow continues at block 408.
At block 408, the wagering game machine 160 receives the bonus game result. For example, the media presentation unit 162 receives a broadcast of the bonus game result from the media communication server 120 via the communication channel. After block 408, the flow continues at block 410.
At block 410, the wagering game machine 160 presents in the second browser media indicating result of the bonus game. For example, the media presentation unit 162 presents media indicating the bonus game result in the second browser of the wagering game machine 160. After block 410, the flow ends.
In some embodiments, a bonus game trigger event detected within the wagering game being presented on a first browser of a first wagering game machine can trigger the presentation of media for a bonus game within the second browser of the first wagering game machine (as described above) and also within the second browsers of one or more related wagering game machines. In this case, the media communication server 120 sends (e.g., broadcasts) the bonus game trigger notification message received from the media presentation unit 162 of the first wagering game machine to the second browser of the first wagering game machine and to the second browsers of the one or more related wagering game machines via the communication channel. In one example, the media communication server 120 can establish the communication channel between a plurality of browsers of a plurality of related wagering game machines by creating a remote shared object to manage the communications of the browsers of the plurality of related wagering game machines.
In one example, the presentation of the bonus game in the second browsers of the related wagering game machines is coordinated based on the timing of the trigger event on the base wagering game. In other examples, the presentation of the bonus game in the second browsers of the related wagering games is not only coordinated based on the timing of the trigger event of the base wagering game but also on the timing of trigger events on the second browsers of the related wagering game machines, e.g., as will be further described below with reference to the car racing bonus game example of FIG. 5.
In some implementations, other types of trigger events can result in the presentation of media within browsers of related wagering game machines. In one example, a plurality of wagering game machines can all participate in a progressive jackpot, e.g., managed by the progressive server 130 of the game controller 110. In this example, the media communication server 120 can creates a remote shared object for the plurality of related wagering game machines to establish a communication channel. In one example, when one of the related wagering game machines wins the progressive jackpot, the winning wagering game machine sends a trigger event notification message to the media communication server 120 (e.g., performs a method call to the remote shared object). The media communication server 120 then sends (e.g., broadcast) the notification message to all of the related wagering game machines via the communication channel. In response to detecting the trigger event notification message, the related wagering game machines present media of a progressive jackpot celebration (e.g., in the second browser), which indicates that somebody in the network won the progressive jackpot. In one example, the winning machine can present media of a more elaborate celebration than the other related machines.
FIG. 5A is a conceptual diagram illustrating a process for coordinating the presentation of media on a plurality of browsers of a plurality of wagering game machines, according to some embodiments. In one example, each of a plurality of related wagering game machines 560 comprise a first browser for a first display device 561 (e.g., a base wagering game display) and a second browser for a second display device 562 (e.g., a bonus game display). The plurality of related wagering game machines 560 communicate with the media communication server 520 of the game controller 510 to coordinate the presentation of bonus games in the second browsers of the wagering game machines 560. Similar to the implementations described above, in one example, the media communication server 520 can create a remote shared object for the related wagering game machines 560. In one specific example, four related wagering game machines 560 subscribe to a remote shared object on the media communication server 520 to establish a communication channel for the four related wagering game machines 560. The four related wagering game machines 560 can be positioned next to each other at a relatively close proximity, and in a particular sequence, such that the four related wagering game machines can present a single instance of a bonus game (e.g., a car racing game) across the second browsers of the four related wagering game machines.
In one implementation, at stage A (shown in FIG. 5A), the second wagering game machine detects a bonus game trigger event (e.g., royal flush) in the wagering game (e.g., video poker) being presented in the first browser of the second wagering game machine. For example, the media presentation unit and/or the game management unit of the second wagering game machine detects the bonus game trigger event.
At stage B, the media presentation unit sends a bonus game trigger notification message to the media communication server 520 via the communications network 522.
At stage C, the media communication server 520 broadcasts the bonus game notification message to the plurality of related wagering game machines 560 via the communication channel.
At stage D1, the media presentation unit of the first wagering game machine presents media for the start of a car racing bonus game in the second browser. The media presentation unit of the first wagering game machine first detects the broadcast of the bonus game trigger notification message. In one example, the media presentation unit then loads media content for the bonus game that is stored locally and presents the media for the start of the car racing bonus game. In another example, the media presentation unit requests media content for the bonus game from the game controller 510 and then presents the media for the start of the car racing bonus game. In one implementation, the media presentation unit requests an intermediate result for the bonus game from the game controller 510. In the example of the car racing bonus game, the intermediate result can determine how “fast” the racing car traverses the second display 562 of the first wagering game machine. In other words, in one specific example, based on random numbers (e.g., generated locally or at the game controller 510), one of a plurality of available media presentations is selected for the start of the car racing bonus game. In this example, each of the media presentations comprises a racing car moving across the display area at a different speed. In another implementation, only one media presentation for the start of the car racing bonus game is available and therefore the media presentation unit loads the media for the bonus game without requesting an intermediate result from the game controller 510.
It is noted that the second, third, and fourth related wagering game machines 560 also detect the broadcast of the bonus game trigger notification message. In one example, each of the first, second, third, and fourth related wagering machines 560 interpret the bonus game trigger notification message based on their position within the sequence of the four related wagering game machines (which may correspond to the machine IDs and browser application IDs assigned by the media content server 520).
At stage D2, the media presentation unit of the second wagering game machine presents media of an empty race track for the car racing bonus game in the second browser, while the first wagering game machine presents media of the start of the race. In one example, the media presentation unit of the second wagering game machine detects the bonus game trigger notification message and determines what media to present based on the position of the wagering game within the sequence of related wagering games and the status of the bonus game. In this example, since the notification message indicates the start of the bonus game, and the machine is second within the sequence of the related wagering game machines, the media presentation unit determines to present media of an empty race track until first wagering game machine sends a subsequent event notification message updating the status of the bonus game.
At stage D3, the media presentation unit of the third wagering game machine also presents media of an empty race track for the car racing bonus game in the second browser.
At stage D4, the media presentation unit of the fourth wagering game machine presents media of an empty race track and the finish line in the second browser.
At stage E, the first wagering game machine detects a trigger event in the bonus game when the race car reaches the end of the display associated with the second browser. In one example, the media presentation unit and/or the game management unit of the second wagering game machine detects the bonus game trigger event.
In FIG. 5B, in response to the first wagering game machine detecting a trigger event when the race car reaches the end of the display, at stage A, the first wagering game machine sends a bonus game trigger notification message to the media communication server 520.
At stage B, the media communication server 520 broadcasts the bonus game trigger notification message (e.g., indicating the first wagering game machine has finished presenting the race car) to all of the related wagering game machines 560 via the communication channel.
At stage C1, in response to detecting the notification message, the media presentation unit of the first wagering game machine presents media of an empty race track with the start line in the second browser.
At stage C2, the media presentation unit of the second wagering machine presents media of the race car moving on the race track in the second browser. In this example, the media presentation unit of the second wagering game machine detects the subsequent notification message that directs the second wagering machine to present media for the bonus game. In one example, the notification messages that are broadcast to the related wagering game machines can include a machine ID and browser application ID to indicate which one of the related wagering game machines is scheduled to present media of the race car for the bonus game. In this example, the rest of the related wagering game machines present default media for the car racing bonus game, e.g., media of an empty race track.
In one example, the media presentation unit then loads media content for the bonus game that is stored locally and presents the media for the car racing bonus game. In another example, the media presentation unit requests media content for the bonus game from the game controller 510 and then presents the media for the car racing bonus game. As described above, in one implementation, the media presentation unit requests an intermediate result for the bonus game from the game controller 510. In another implementation, only one media presentation for the car racing bonus game is available for this stage of the bonus game and therefore the media presentation unit loads the media for the bonus game without requesting an intermediate result from the game controller 510.
At stage C3, the media presentation unit of the third wagering game machine presents media of an empty race track in the second browser.
At stage C4, the media presentation unit of the fourth wagering game machine presents media of an empty race track and the finish line in the second browser.
At stage D, the second wagering game machine detects a trigger event in the bonus game when the race car reaches the end of the display associated with the second browser. In one example, the media presentation unit and/or the game management unit of the second wagering game machine detects the bonus game trigger event.
In FIG. 5C, after the second wagering game machine detects a trigger event when the race car reaches the end of the display, at stage A, the second wagering game machine sends a bonus game trigger notification message to the media communication server 520.
At stage B, the media communication server 520 broadcasts the bonus game trigger notification message (e.g., indicating the second wagering game machine has finished presenting the race car) to all of the related wagering game machines 560 via the communication channel.
At stage C1, in response to detecting the notification message, the media presentation unit of the first wagering game machine presents media of an empty race track with the start line in the second browser.
At stage C2, the media presentation unit of the second wagering game machine presents media of an empty race track in the second browser.
At stage C3, the media presentation unit of the third wagering machine presents media of the race car moving on the race track in the second browser.
At stage C4, the media presentation unit of the fourth wagering game machine presents media of an empty race track and the finish line in the second browser.
At stage D, the third wagering game machine detects a trigger event in the bonus game when the race car reaches the end of the display associated with the second browser.
In FIG. 5D, in response to the third wagering game machine detecting a trigger event when the race car reaches the end of the display, at stage A, the third wagering game machine sends a bonus game trigger notification message to the media communication server 520.
At stage B, the media communication server 520 broadcasts the bonus game trigger notification message (e.g., indicating the third wagering game machine has finished presenting the race car) to all of the related wagering game machines 560 via the communication channel.
At stage C1, in response to detecting the notification message, the media presentation unit of the first wagering game machine presents media of an empty race track and the start line in the second browser.
At stage C2, the media presentation unit of the second wagering game machine presents media of an empty race track in the second browser.
At stage C3, the media presentation unit of the third wagering machine presents media of an empty race track in the second browser.
At stage C4, the media presentation unit of the fourth wagering game machine presents media of the race car on the race track moving toward the finish line, and crossing the finish line, in the second browser.
At stage D, the fourth wagering game machine detects a trigger event in the bonus game when the race car crosses the finish line and reaches the end of the display associated with the second browser of the fourth wagering game machine.
At stage E, the fourth wagering game machine sends a request for the results of the car racing bonus game. For example, the media presentation unit of the fourth wagering game machine sends a request message to the media communication server 520 requesting the results for the bonus game. It is noted, however, that in another implementation the fourth wagering game machine can determine the results locally.
At stage F, all the related wagering game machines receive the results from the media communication server 520 and present the results of the car racing bonus game. The results can be presented in the second browser of all of the related wagering game machines 560. In one example, the results can indicate that the players of the related wagering game machines 560 have been awarded game credits or other awards. In this example, the game credits can then be added to the game credit balance of the base wagering games being presented in the first browsers of the game machines.
It is noted that in other implementations a plurality of related wagering game machines (inside the casino or outside the casino) can present other game-related or casino-related content (e.g., progressive jackpot celebration) in a similar manner as described above for the bonus game content.
In one implementation, as noted above, the community server 180 can enable players outside the casino to monitor and participate in casino activities. For example, a player connected to the community server 180 can monitor players in a casino if those players are on a “social contacts” list. In some embodiments, players outside the casino can be part of bonus presentations and other celebrations that occur/begin inside the casino. In such an embodiment, an outside browser subscribes to a communication channel used by browsers inside the casino (e.g., in wagering game machines located in the casino). An outside browser may select a communication channel based on a player's social contacts, friends list, or other information available in the community server 180.
In one example, an outside browser can access the media communication server 120 via the community server 180 and subscribe to a remote shared object of the media communications server 120 that is also subscribed to by browsers inside the casino (e.g., browsers being operated by players on a friend list). By subscribing to the remote shared object, the outside browser can establish a communication channel with the browsers inside the casino to coordinate the presentation of media across the browsers inside the casino and the outside browser. For example, when a browser inside the casino detects a bonus game trigger and makes a method call to the remote shared object, the media communication server 120 may broadcast a bonus game trigger notification message via the communication channel. Since the outside browser is subscribed to the same remote shared object as the browsers inside the casino, the outside browser detects the notification message and presents media for the bonus game. For the car racing bonus game example described above (see FIG. 5), the outside browser can present the entire car race scene from the start line to the finish line. In another example, the outside browser can present only a portion of the car racing bonus game, e.g., the race car approaching and crossing the finish line. It is noted that, in response to detecting an event trigger (e.g., a bonus game trigger in the wagering game being presented in the outside browser), the outside browser can also make a method call to the remote shared object to broadcast notification messages via the communication channel.
It is noted that other events can trigger the presentation of bonus games or other content across a plurality of browsers of a plurality of related wagering game machines. For example, if a first player is operating a first wagering game machine, and a second player that is part of a friend list of the first player logs into a second wagering game machine next to the first player, a friend list event or a friend progressive event can be triggered. This type of trigger event can be detected by the first wagering game machine and result in the presentation of media for a bonus game across the browsers of a plurality of related wagering game machines.

Additional Example Operating Environments

This section describes example operating environments, systems and networks, and presents structural aspects of some embodiments.

Wagering Game Machine Architecture

FIG. 6 is a conceptual diagram that illustrates an example of a wagering game machine architecture 600, according to some embodiments. In FIG. 6, the wagering game machine architecture 600 includes a wagering game machine 606, which includes a central processing unit (CPU) 626 connected to main memory 628. The CPU 626 can include any suitable processor, such as an Intel® Pentium processor, Intel® Core 2 Duo processor, AMD Opteron™ processor, or UltraSPARC processor. The main memory 628 includes a wagering game unit 632. In some embodiments, the wagering game unit 632 can present wagering games, such as video poker, video black jack, video slots, video lottery, reel slots, etc., in whole or part, and can implement techniques for coordinating the presentation of media between multiple browsers, e.g., as described above with reference to FIGS. 1-5D.
The CPU 626 is also connected to an input/output (“I/O”) bus 622, which can include any suitable bus technologies, such as an AGTL+frontside bus and a PCI backside bus. The I/O bus 622 is connected to a payout mechanism 608, primary display 610, secondary display 612, value input device 614, player input device 616, information reader 618, and storage unit 630. The player input device 616 can include the value input device 614 to the extent the player input device 616 is used to place wagers. The I/O bus 622 is also connected to an external system interface 624, which is connected to external systems (e.g., wagering game networks). The external system interface 624 can include logic for exchanging information over wired and wireless networks (e.g., 802.11g transceiver, Bluetooth transceiver, Ethernet transceiver, etc.)
In some embodiments, the wagering game machine 606 can include additional peripheral devices and/or more than one of each component shown in FIG. 6. For example, in some embodiments, the wagering game machine 606 can include multiple external system interfaces 624 and/or multiple CPUs 626. In some embodiments, any of the components can be integrated or subdivided.
In some embodiments, the wagering game machine 606 includes an online gaming module 637. The online gaming module 637 can process communications, commands, or other information, where the processing can control and present online wagering games.
Furthermore, any component of the wagering game machine 606 can include hardware, firmware, and/or machine-readable media including instructions for performing the operations described herein.

Example Wagering Game Machines

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a wagering game machine, according to example embodiments of the invention. Referring to FIG. 7, a wagering game machine 700 is used in gaming establishments, such as casinos. In some embodiments, the wagering game machine 700 can implement the functionality described above with reference to FIGS. 1-5D, e.g., coordinating the presentation of media between multiple browsers.
According to embodiments, the wagering game machine 700 can be any type of wagering game machine and can have varying structures and methods of operation. For example, the wagering game machine 700 can be an electromechanical wagering game machine configured to play mechanical slots, or it can be an electronic wagering game machine configured to play video casino games, such as blackjack, slots, keno, poker, blackjack, roulette, etc.
The wagering game machine 700 comprises a housing 712 and includes input devices, including value input devices 718 and a player input device 724. For output, the wagering game machine 700 includes a primary display 714 for displaying information about a basic wagering game. In some implementations, the primary display 714 can also display information about a bonus wagering game and a progressive wagering game. The wagering game machine 700 also includes a secondary display 716 for displaying bonus wagering games, wagering game events, wagering game outcomes, and/or signage information. While some components of the wagering game machine 700 are described herein, numerous other elements can exist and can be used in any number or combination to create varying forms of the wagering game machine 700.
The value input devices 718 can take any suitable form and can be located on the front of the housing 712. The value input devices 718 can receive currency and/or credits inserted by a player. The value input devices 718 can include coin acceptors for receiving coin currency and bill acceptors for receiving paper currency. Furthermore, the value input devices 718 can include ticket readers or barcode scanners for reading information stored on vouchers, cards, or other tangible portable storage devices. The vouchers or cards can authorize access to central accounts, which can transfer money to the wagering game machine 700.
The player input device 724 comprises a plurality of push buttons on a button panel 726 for operating the wagering game machine 700. In addition, or alternatively, the player input device 724 can comprise a touch screen 728 mounted over the primary display 714 and/or secondary display 716.
The various components of the wagering game machine 700 can be connected directly to, or contained within, the housing 712. Alternatively, some of the wagering game machine's components can be located outside of the housing 712, while being communicatively coupled with the wagering game machine 700 using any suitable wired or wireless communication technology.
The operation of the basic wagering game can be displayed to the player on the primary display 714. The primary display 714 can also display a bonus game associated with the basic wagering game. The primary display 714 can include a cathode ray tube (CRT), a high resolution liquid crystal display (LCD), a plasma display, light emitting diodes (LEDs), or any other type of display suitable for use in the wagering game machine 700. Alternatively, the primary display 714 can include a number of mechanical reels to display the outcome. In FIG. 7, the wagering game machine 700 is an “upright” version in which the primary display 714 is oriented vertically relative to the player. Alternatively, the wagering game machine can be a “slant-top” version in which the primary display 714 is slanted at about a thirty-degree angle toward the player of the wagering game machine 700. In yet another embodiment, the wagering game machine 700 can exhibit any suitable form factor, such as a free standing model, bartop model, mobile handheld model, or workstation console model.
A player begins playing a basic wagering game by making a wager via the value input device 718. The player can initiate play by using the player input device's buttons or touch screen 728. The basic game can include arranging a plurality of symbols along a payline 732, which indicates one or more outcomes of the basic game. Such outcomes can be randomly selected in response to player input. At least one of the outcomes, which can include any variation or combination of symbols, can trigger a bonus game.
In some embodiments, the wagering game machine 700 can also include an information reader 752, which can include a card reader, ticket reader, bar code scanner, RFID transceiver, or computer readable storage medium interface. In some embodiments, the information reader 752 can be used to award complimentary services, restore game assets, track player habits, etc.

General

This detailed description refers to specific examples in the drawings and illustrations. These examples are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the inventive subject matter. These examples also serve to illustrate how the inventive subject matter can be applied to various purposes or embodiments. Other embodiments are included within the inventive subject matter, as logical, mechanical, electrical, and other changes can be made to the example embodiments described herein. Features of various embodiments described herein, however essential to the example embodiments in which they are incorporated, do not limit the inventive subject matter as a whole, and any reference to the invention, its elements, operation, and application are not limiting as a whole, but serve only to define these example embodiments. This detailed description does not, therefore, limit embodiments of the invention, which are defined only by the appended claims. Each of the embodiments described herein are contemplated as falling within the inventive subject matter, which is set forth in the following claims.

Claims

1. A computer-implemented method for coordinating presentation of media in a plurality of browsers of a plurality of wagering game machines, the method comprising:

subscribing a first browser and a second browser of a first wagering game machine to a communication channel also subscribed to by a first browser and a second browser of one or more additional wagering game machines;

presenting media for a wagering game in the first browser of the first wagering game machine;

detecting a game-related event associated with the wagering game being presented in the first browser of the first wagering game machine;

determining that the game-related event triggers a presentation of a bonus game in the second browser of the first wagering game machine and in the second browser of the one or more additional wagering game machines; and

providing a bonus trigger notification message to the second browser of the first wagering game machine and to the second browser of the one or more additional wagering game machines via the second communication channel to cause a single instance of the bonus game to be presented across the second browser of the first wagering game machine and the second browser of the one or more additional wagering game machines.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein said subscribing the first and second browsers of the first wagering game machine to the communication channel comprises subscribing the first and second browsers of the first wagering game machine to a remote shared object of a server also subscribed to by the first and second browsers of the one or more additional wagering game machines to establish the communication channel for the first and second browsers of the first wagering game machine and the first and second browsers of the one or more additional wagering game machines.

3. The method of claim 2, wherein said providing the bonus trigger notification message to the second browser of the first wagering game machine and to the second browser of the one or more additional wagering game machines via the second communication channel comprises calling the remote shared object of the server to cause the server to broadcast the bonus trigger notification message to the second browser of the first wagering game machine and to the second browser of the one or more additional wagering game machines via the communication channel and cause the single instance of the bonus game to be presented across the second browser of the first wagering game machine and the second browser of the one or more additional wagering game machines.

4. The method of claim 2, wherein said subscribing the first and second browsers to the remote shared object of the server comprises subscribing a first browser application, including a first browser plug-in, used to present media in a first display device of the first wagering game machine to the remote shared object, and subscribing a second browser application, including a second browser plug-in, used to present media in a second display device of the first wagering game machine to the remote shared object.

5. The method of claim 1, wherein said providing the bonus trigger notification message to the second browser of the first wagering game machine and to the second browser of the one or more additional wagering game machines via the second communication channel to cause the single instance of the bonus game to be presented across the second browser of the first wagering game machine and the second browser of the one or more additional wagering game machines comprises providing the bonus trigger notification message to the second browser of the first wagering game machine and to the second browser of the one or more additional wagering game machines via the second communication channel to coordinate the presentation of a first portion of the single instance of the bonus game in the second browser of the first wagering game machine and a different portion of the single instance of the bonus game in the second browser of each of the one or more additional wagering game machines.

6. The method of claim 5, further comprising:

detecting a trigger event associated with the first portion of the single instance of the bonus game being presented in the second browser of the first wagering game machine; and

in response to said detecting the trigger event associated with the first portion of the single instance of the bonus game, providing a bonus event notification message to the second browser of the first wagering game machine and to the second browser of the one or more additional wagering game machines via the second communication channel to cause the first wagering game machine to modify the presentation of the first portion of the single instance of the bonus game and cause each of the one or more additional wagering game machines to determine whether to modify the presentation of each corresponding different portion of the single instance of the bonus game.

7. The method of claim 1, further comprising providing the bonus trigger notification message to a browser of an online wagering game machine, subscribed to the communication channel, via a community server associated with the online wagering game machine to cause the browser of the online wagering game machine to present a separate instance of the bonus game.

8. A wagering game machine comprising:

a media presentation unit configured to subscribe a first browser and a second browser of the wagering game machine to a communication channel also subscribed to by a first browser and a second browser of one or more additional wagering game machines, and configured to

present media for a wagering game in the first browser of the wagering game machine;

determine game results associated with the wagering game being presented in the first browser of the first wagering game machine; and

an event management unit configured to determine that the game results associated with the wagering game trigger a presentation of a bonus game in the second browser of the first wagering game machine and in the second browser of the one or more additional wagering game machines, and configured to

provide a bonus trigger notification message to the second browser of the first wagering game machine and to the second browser of the one or more additional wagering game machines via the second communication channel to coordinate the presentation of a first portion of a single instance of the bonus game in the second browser of the first wagering game machine and a different portion of the single instance of the bonus game in the second browser of each of the one or more additional wagering game machines.

9. The wagering game machine of claim 8, wherein the event management unit is further configured to:

detect a trigger event associated with the first portion of the single instance of the bonus game being presented in the second browser of the first wagering game machine; and

in response to said detecting the trigger event associated with the first portion of the single instance of the bonus game, provide a bonus event notification message to the second browser of the first wagering game machine and to the second browser of the one or more additional wagering game machines via the second communication channel to cause the first wagering game machine to modify the presentation of the first portion of the single instance of the bonus game and cause each of the one or more additional wagering game machines to determine whether to modify the presentation of each corresponding different portion of the single instance of the bonus game.

10. The wagering game machine of claim 9, wherein said causing each of the one or more additional wagering game machines to determine whether to modify the presentation of each corresponding different portion of the single instance of the bonus game comprises causing each of the one or more additional wagering game machines to determine whether to modify the presentation of each corresponding different portion of the single instance of the bonus game based, at least in part, on a position of each of the one or more additional wagering game machines within a bank of wagering game machines that comprises the first wagering game machine and the one or more additional wagering game machines.

11. The wagering game machine of claim 8, wherein the event management unit is further configured to determine whether intermediate results are available to determine a type of bonus game media to present across the second browser of the first wagering game machine and the second browser of the one or more additional wagering game machines.

12. An apparatus for managing communications between a plurality of wagering game machines in a network to coordinate presentation of media between a plurality of browsers of the plurality of wagering game machines, the apparatus comprising:

means for detecting subscription requests for a communication channel from a plurality of browsers of a plurality of wagering game machines;

means for granting the subscription requests for the communication channel;

means for detecting a game event trigger notification message from one of the plurality of browsers of a first wagering game machine of the plurality of wagering game machines; and

means for broadcasting the game event trigger notification message received from the first wagering game machine to the plurality of browsers of the plurality of wagering game machines to coordinate a media presentation of game-related content in at least one of the browsers of each of the plurality of wagering game machines.

13. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein said means for granting the subscription requests for the communication channel comprises means for subscribing the plurality of browsers of the plurality of wagering game machines to a remote shared object to establish the communication channel for the browsers of the wagering game machines.

14. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein said means for broadcasting the game event trigger notification message received from the first wagering game machine to the plurality of browsers of the plurality of wagering game machines to coordinate a media presentation of game-related content in at least one of the browsers of each of the plurality of wagering game machines comprises means for broadcasting the game event trigger notification message received from the first wagering game machine to the plurality of browsers of the plurality of wagering game machines to coordinate a media presentation of a single instance of a bonus game across one or more of the browsers of each of the plurality of wagering game machines.

15. The apparatus of claim 12, further comprising:

means for detecting a game event trigger notification message from one of the plurality of browsers of a second wagering game machine of the plurality of wagering game machines; and

means for broadcasting the game event trigger notification message received from the second wagering game machine to the plurality of browsers of the plurality of wagering game machines to coordinate a media presentation of game-related content, associated with the game event trigger notification message received from the second wagering game machine, in at least one of the browsers of each of the plurality of wagering game machines.

16. A computer-implemented method for coordinating presentation of media in a plurality of browsers of a plurality of wagering game machines of a communications network, the method comprising:

subscribing a first browser and a second browser of a first wagering game machine to a communication channel also subscribed to by a first browser and a second browser of one or more additional wagering game machines, the communication channel being managed by a server of the communications network;

determining game results associated with the wagering game being presented in the first browser of the first wagering game machine;

determining that the game results associated with the wagering game trigger a media presentation of game-related content in the second browser of the first wagering game machine and the second browser of the one or more additional wagering game machines; and

providing a trigger notification message to the second browser of the first wagering game machine and the second browser of the one or more additional wagering game machines via the communication channel to cause the second browser of the first wagering game machine and the second browser of the one or more additional wagering game machines to present media for the game-related content.

17. The method of claim 16, wherein said subscribing the first and second browsers of the first wagering game machine to the communication channel comprises subscribing the first and second browsers of the first wagering game machine to a remote shared object of the server also subscribed to by the first and second browsers of the one or more additional wagering game machines to establish the communication channel for the first and second browsers of the first wagering game machine and the first and second browsers of the one or more additional wagering game machines.

18. The method of claim 16, wherein said providing the trigger notification message to the second browser of the first wagering game machine and the second browser of the one or more additional wagering game machines via the communication channel causes the second browser of the first wagering game machine to present an instance of a bonus game and causes the second browser of each of the one or more additional wagering game machines to present another instance of the bonus game.

19. The method of claim 16, wherein said providing the trigger notification message to the second browser of the first wagering game machine and the second browser of the one or more additional wagering game machines via the communication channel causes the second browser of the first wagering game machine and the second browser of the one or more additional wagering game machines to present a single instance of a bonus game across the second browser of the first wagering game machine and the second browser of each of the one or more additional wagering game machines.

20. The method of claim 19, further comprising:

detecting a notification message received from the server of the communications network notifying the second browser of the first wagering game machine of the trigger notification message; and

presenting a portion of the single instance of the bonus game in the second browser of the first wagering game machine, wherein a remaining portion of the single instance of the bonus game is presented across the second browsers of the one or more additional wagering game machines.

21. The method of claim 16, wherein said providing the trigger notification message to the second browser of the first wagering game machine and the second browser of the one or more additional wagering game machines via the communication channel causes the second browser of the first wagering game machine to present a progressive jackpot celebration and causes the second browser of each of the one or more additional wagering game machines to present a different type of progressive jackpot celebration.

22. One or more machine-readable storage media, having instructions stored therein, which, when executed by one or more processors causes the one or more processors to perform operations that comprise:

subscribing a first browser and a second browser of a wagering game machine to a remote shared object managed by a server of a communication network to establish a communication channel for the first and second browsers of the wagering game machine;

presenting media for a wagering game in the first browser of the wagering game machine;

determining game results associated with the wagering game based on information received from the server;

presenting media for the game results in the first browser of the wagering game machine;

determining that the game results associated with the wagering game being presented on the first browser of the wagering game machine trigger a bonus game in the second browser of the wagering game machine; and

providing a bonus trigger notification message to the second browser of the wagering game machine via the communication channel to cause the second browser of the wagering game machine to present media for the bonus game.

23. The machine-readable storage media of claim 22, wherein said operation of subscribing the first browser and the second browser of the wagering game machine to the remote shared object comprises subscribing a first browser application, including a first browser plug-in, used to present media in a first display device of the wagering game machine to the remote shared object, and subscribing a second browser application, including a second browser plug-in, used to present media in a second display device of the wagering game machine to the remote shared object.

24. The machine-readable storage media of claim 22, wherein said operation of providing the bonus trigger notification message to the second browser of the wagering game machine comprises calling the remote shared object of the server to cause the server to broadcast the bonus game trigger notification message to the second browser via the communication channel and the second browser to present media for the bonus game.

25. The machine-readable storage media of claim 22, wherein the operations further comprise detecting a player input to initiate the wagering game in the first browser of the wagering game machine, and presenting media for the wagering game in the first browser in response to detecting the player input to initiate the wagering game.