WO2006130902A1

WO2006130902A1 - A gaming system

Info

Publication number: WO2006130902A1
Application number: PCT/AU2006/000765
Authority: WO
Inventors: Gavin Charles Jackson
Original assignee: Queensland Gaming Systems Pty Ltd
Priority date: 2005-06-06
Filing date: 2006-06-06
Publication date: 2006-12-14
Also published as: GB2441256A; GB2441256B; GB0723744D0

Abstract

The present invention is directed to a gaming machine for the playing of a game from downloadable game programming. The gaming machine has a processor adapted to process game programming for the playing of a game, an interactive console adapted for the playing of different games, said console is operatively associated with the playing of the game and controlled by the processor and the installed game programming; and display means includes one or more display members for the providing of game information and or relevant artwork, the display on each display member is controlled by the processor, wherein the game programming encodes the game and associated information for display on said one or more display members. The invention also is directed to a gaming system including a remote host controller, a local controller which is located at a venue and one or more gaming machines. The local controller stores game software and firmware downloaded from the host controller and installs the software and firmware for the desired game on the gaming machines.

Description

A GAMING SYSTEM

FIELD OF INVENTION

The present invention relates to gambling and gaming systems. The present invention has particular but not exclusive application for providing games via the internet or intranet to gaming machines in venues.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Most gaming machines are stand-alone machines designed for the playing of a specific game. The cabinet and display panel often display instructions and graphics for the specific game playable on the particular machine. Where there are game updates or a new game is to be installed, a new EPROM (Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory) encoding the updated game or new game and new panels with instructions and graphics are fitted to the gaming machine.

Recently there has been a shift to PC-based technology platforms because of their versatility and comparatively better graphics and picture quality. There has also been developments to the providing of new game software or updates to existing game software via an intranet or internet. By way of example, the gaming system disclosed in Australian Patent Specification AU200197154 describes a system where games are provided by a dedicated intranet system to gaming terminals. The patent specification describes the use of encryption to ensure secure communication between the remote server and the gaming machine. Australian patent specification AU200124843 discloses a system for monitoring gaming machines where gaming machines provide information regarding the insertion of a payment object, the number of times a payment object has been inserted (a counter) and situation-of-use information to a common central monitoring station, so an analysis of the use of each machine can be made. Australian patent specification AU2002235030 also describes a game management system where games are provided via the internet to a licensed client base. The game management system involves a remote game server that provides games over the internet, a local server controlled by the client for controlling the use of the games and a data server for storing information relating to the use of the various games. The remote game server serves to authenticate the clients and includes a membership management module for registering the local server.

Australian patent AU755460 discloses a method of downloading software and firmware to gaming machines by first identifying individual machines with respect to jurisdiction so that correct and compliant programs for the machine can be downloaded. WO0232526 discloses the establishment of a gaming terminal data repository used to store game software components, game software component information and gaming transaction information for a plurality of gaming machines at a central location. This information is accessed when updating games.

Despite the development of different systems for electronically streamlining the game machine industry including electronic downloading of game software over the internet to gaming machines, the gaming machine must still be refitted with a new console panel and display panels specific for the downloaded game. This refitting involves sending a technician on-site to the particular venue to replace the console panel or display panels of the specific gaming machine. While the downloading of new games or updated games can be remotely achieved, there is still a requirement to adapt the gaming machine for the specific game. The adaption of the gaming machine is relatively expensive and labour intensive but is necessary in order for the game to be played on the gaming machine or become user friendly for playing the game on the gaming machine.

OBJECT OF THE INVENTION It is an object of the present invention to provide an alternative gaming machine and system that overcomes at least in part one or more of the above mentioned problems.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION In one aspect the present invention broadly resides in a gaming machine including at least one processor encoded with game programming for a game, said game programming includes firmware and game software; an interactive console for the playing of the game, said console is operatively associated with the firmware to allow the console to be used to play the game encoded by the game software; and display means includes one or more display members, said display means is operatively associated with the game software to display game information and or relevant artwork, wherein a game on the machine can be changed by installing game programming for the new game.

The installation of new game programming may be achieved by physically loading a disc with the game programming on the machine or preferably by downloading the game programming over a network such as the internet.

Preferably part of the installation of the new game programming includes clearing of the memory (processor RAM) of the previous game data before the new game is played. More preferably the RAM of the processor is automatically cleared and reset with the installation of new game programming.

Game information preferably includes game instructions, game progress information and or game results. In a preferred form the gaming machine is able to store game programming during the installation or download process so to avoid data transfer related problems.

The installation of a new game provides the advantage that a technician is not required to physically modify the relevant gaming machine. In another aspect the present invention broadly resides in a gaming machine for the playing of a game from downloadable game programming including a processor adapted to process game programming for the playing of a game; an interactive console adapted for the playing of different games, said console is operatively associated with the playing of the game and controlled by the processor and the installed game programming; and display means includes one or more display members for the providing of game information and or relevant artwork, the display on each display member is controlled by the processor, wherein the game programming encodes the game and associated information for display on said one or more display members.

The interactive console preferably has a plurality of buttons for playing the installed game. The interactive console preferably has a universal button configuration suitable for the playing of different games. Preferably the same buttons on the universal button console can actuate the same or different functions for different games. Each button may also have more than one function. In one preferred form, there are two play initiating buttons on either side of the interactive console to allow ambidextrous game play and additional comfort for left handed players.

Preferably the interactive console for a gaming machine has two play initiating buttons on either side of the console panel, a menu button, a rules button, a gamble button, a 'take win' button, betting buttons and a collect button. 'Lines up' and Tines down' functions may be provided as secondary functions to existing buttons.

In another aspect the present invention broadly resides in a gaming machine including at least one processor encoded with game programming for a game, said game programming includes firmware and game software; an interactive console for the playing of the game, said console is operatively associated with the firmware to allow the console to be used to play the game encoded by the game software, said console has a universal button configuration suitable for the playing of different games; and display means includes one or more display members, said display means is operatively associated with the game software to display game information and or relevant artwork, wherein a game on the machine can be changed by installing game programming for the new game. The display members preferably include top box panels, main screen panels or both. The displayed information is downloaded as part of or in conjunction with the game programming. Where the gaming machine has a top box panel display, the downloaded game-specific artwork is displayed on the screen on the top box panel. Where the gaming machine is configured without the top box panel, the artwork is preferably displayed on the main screen and game information is accessible via the player buttons.

There may also be further tower light or screen displays for the display of venue related alerts or information provided by a local controller operatively linked to a plurality of gaming machines.

In another aspect the present invention broadly resides in a gaming machine including at least one processor encoded with game programming for a game, said game programming includes firmware and game software; an interactive console for the playing of the game, said console is operatively associated with the firmware to allow the console to be used to play the game encoded by the game software, said console has a universal button configuration suitable for the playing of different games; and display means includes one or more display members, said display means is operatively associated with the game software to display game information and or relevant artwork, the one or more display members include a top box panel, wherein a game on the machine can be changed by installing game programming for the new game.

The processor can preferably run the game programming installed on a local controller to play the game. Alternatively the processor is able to receive and install the game programming.

Preferably the gaming machine downloads the game programming from the local controller and runs the game programming at the particular venue. The local controller preferably has an internet or dedicated network link to a remote host controller from where the game programming is downloaded. The game programming preferably includes game software, operating system software and hardware firmware.

Preferably the gaming machine also includes a site map for the venue. The site map preferably provides the location of venue facilities such as toilets, restaurants, bars, other gaming machines, automatic teller machines and cashiers, and identifies the current location of the gaming machine. The site map is preferably downloaded from the local controller. In this way the site map may be continually updated. The site map is preferably accessible via the player buttons on the interactive console. Each gaming machine is preferably operatively associated with the local controller. The operative association of the gaming machine with the local controller is preferably by an electronic communication means which may be a wireless or wired connection.

Each gaming machine is preferably programmed to monitor its' usage and provide a message to the local controller when a preset maintenance service check is reached. The gaming machine preferably has a preset maintenance check for the cleaning and lubrication of the machine's coin hopper after a predetermined number of coins have been collected. The local controller may also monitor this and display appropriate messages describing the type of service required. Each gaming machine preferably has a fault screen or message displayed when there is a fault. Preferably a fault diagnostic screen and instructions to repair the fault is displayed via the player buttons on the console. Preferably a fault diagnostic screen, stepwise instructions to repair the fault and relevant diagrams are accessed via a computer menu display. When the game machine has a fault, a message is preferably sent to the local controller advising of the fault and which machine is faulty.

To eliminate the problem of identifying the appropriate key switch or correct operation of the available key switch in venues with insufficient lighting, the gaming machine preferably has a single key switch with a single operative position which when turned to the operative position displays a menu screen. The menu screen preferably displays functions related to the operation of the machine and preferably includes audit menu functions such as electronic meter displays, error and fault analysis and repair instructions, and resetting of values of different parameters such as jackpot wins.

The gaming machine may include one or more of the above mentioned features.

In a further aspect the present invention broadly resides in a gaming machine including at least one processor encoded with game programming for a game, said game programming includes firmware and game software; an interactive console for the playing of the game, said console is operatively associated with the firmware to allow the console to be used to play the game encoded by the game software; display means includes one or more display members, said display means is operatively associated with the game software to display game information and or relevant artwork; and a single key switch with a single operative position which when turned to the operative position displays a menu screen on one of the display members, wherein a game on the machine can be changed by installing game programming for the new game.

The single key may include one or more of the above mentioned features. In another aspect the present invention broadly resides in a gaming system in a venue including one or more gaming machines as described above; and a local controller operatively associated with each of the gaming machines wherein said local controller provides game programming to each of said gaming machines, each of the gaming machines provides operational information including status information to the local controller for use in controlling the gaming machine to maximize their use or in accordance with the venue owner's instructions.

The local controller preferably includes a local server which stores one or more games that are downloadable to one or more of the gaming machines. The one or more games are preferably downloaded to one or more of the gaming machines at any desired time. More preferably one or more of the games can be repeatedly downloaded to one or more of the gaming machines. The number of times a particular game is downloaded may depend on the frequency of attendance of different patron types and their game preferences.

The local controller preferably has a management system which includes one or more of the following functions:

1. venue map showing location of the gaming machines;

2. operational status of each gaming machine;

3. remote testing of a gaming machine;

4. operational and functional statistics for each gaming machine; 5. usage statistics for each game; 6. ability to download software, including games and firmware, to a gaming machine;

7. change denomination of gaming machine;

8. change return to player of a game 9. denomination display;

10. promotion controller;

11. storage of critical faults;

12. terminal-to-terminal communications

13. message display where the gaming machine requires attendant intervention, detection of critical faults, or detecting a non-responsive gaming machine.

The local controller preferably has a management system that monitors and diagnoses gaming machine malfunctions and monitors and controls gaming machine maintenance. In one preferred form each gaming machine is operatively linked so that messages or displays can be sent from one gaming machine to the next gaming machine. An alternative arrangement or in addition to the above mentioned preferred form the gaming machines are operatively linked to each other via the local controller. Monitoring of games, playing of games and installing new games are monitored by government authorities. The method of installing new game programming facilitates monitoring by the relevant authorities and includes the steps of electronically notifying the monitoring system that a game change has been requested by the local controller; verification by the monitoring system that the game for installing has been approved by the appropriate authority; and notification by the monitoring system to the gaming machine that the game may be installed from the local controller.

Alternatively the method of installing new game programming may include the steps of electronically notifying the monitoring system that a game change has been requested by the local controller; verification by the monitoring system that the game for installing has been approved by the appropriate authority; and notification by the monitoring system to the local controller that the game may be installed from the local controller.

In another aspect the present invention broadly resides in a gaming system including one or more gaming machines as described above, each of said gaming machines are located at a venue; a local controller operatively associated with each of the gaming machines, said local controller provides game programming to each of said gaming machines, said each gaming machine provides operational information including status information to the local controller for use in controlling the gaming machine to maximize their use or in accordance with the venue owner's instructions; and a host controller remotely located and provides game programming to the local controller for use with the gaming machines. Said host controller preferably provides the game programming via the intranet, suitable secured network or the internet. Said host controller preferably provides the game programming through an encrypted message. Said host controller preferably provides the game programming to one or more authorized local controllers. Said host controller preferably provides software to one or more local controller for use with the local controller via the intranet, suitable secured network or the internet. Said host controller preferably provides the local controller software through an encrypted message. The host controller preferably stores the various games and other software and includes an interactive authorizing means through which games and software updates are authorized and securely transmitted to the authorized local controller at the venue.

The host controller preferably is able to collect and analyze game history information including usage from each venue.

Said local controller is preferably located on-site at the venue which houses the gaming machines. The local controller preferably has the features as described above.

Gaming days are preferably broken up into gaming sessions, such as early and late sessions. Venue operators preferably provide games which are preferred by the current patron types attending during a particular session. Gaming data is preferably gathered for each session, thereby allowing analysis of the gaming session to determine the performance of each game per session. The analysis of this data can also be used to determine the performance of individual gaming terminals per session.

In another aspect the invention broadly resides in an interactive console for a gaming machine having two play initiating buttons on either side of the console panel, a menu button, a rules button, a gamble button, a 'take win' button, betting buttons and a collect button. 'Lines up' and 'lines down' functions may be provided as secondary functions to existing buttons. The interactive console preferably has a universal button configuration suitable for the playing of different games. Preferably the same buttons on the universal button console can actuate the same or different functions for different games. Each button may also have more than one function. In an alternative embodiment, the interactive console may be a virtual button panel on a touch screen. The virtual button panel is preferably the size of a standard button panel. Buttons are preferably displayed graphically on the screen. Pressing these virtual buttons preferably results in the same actions as if a physical button was pressed. Feedback is given by a sound played through the speakers, such as an audio recording of a physical button press. Where different buttons are required for different games, software for these buttons can be downloaded to and displayed on the virtual button panel as required by the game.

In another embodiment, tactile feedback may be given by the entire touch screen button panel moving downward slightly when a virtual button is pressed. In a further embodiment, the buttons on the console panel may have built in reflective or illuminated displays such as an LCD. The function of each button is preferably identified by downloading appropriate text and/or graphics to the displays as required by the game.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In order that the present invention can be more readily understood and put into practical effect, reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings wherein:

Figure 1 is a diagrammatic view of a preferred embodiment of the gaming system; Figure 2 is a photograph of a preferred embodiment of the gaming machine; and

Figure 3 is a diagrammatic view of the interactive console of the gaming machine shown in Figure 2.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

With reference to Figure 1 there is shown a gaming system 10 having a host controller 11 , local controller 12 and gaming machines 13. The host controller 11 includes a server which stores game programming encoding games for playing on licensed gaming machines. The game programming includes binary images of approved games. The host controller 11 stores game programming as game software and firmware for the licensed gaming machines. The host controller 11 also has a downloading server where licensed venues can download one or more different games or game updates. The host controller 11 has administrative details and license details for each venue. The administrative details include name and contact details for the venue, number of local controllers 12 at each venue, number of gaming machines 13 at each venue and lists of games at each venue. The host controller 11 issues each venue with a license key that enables the venue to download games in accordance with their license. For games or game updates to be downloaded, the license details for the particular venue must be provided to the host controller 11. After the license details have been entered and authorization given, the games or game updates are downloaded in an encrypted format via the internet or a secure intranet to a local controller 12 within the licensed venue.

The local controller 12 downloads the games or game updates and stores them on a game server. Venue management then runs a particular game from the game server so that it can be played on one or more gaming machines 13. The games can be readily changed depending on the usage of each type of game and the game preference of the users. The games can be readily changed as the game programming includes the game and associated artwork and instructions for display on the screens of the top and main screen panels of the gaming machines 13.

The local controller 12 controls the gaming machines 13. The local controller 12 also encodes a management system providing a graphical interface allowing the venue operators to determine the status of each gaming machine 13 in the venue at any one particular time. The management system also includes having a venue map showing the location and type of gaming machine 13 in the venue, the ability to remote test a gaming machine 13 to receive and analyze feedback data from each gaming machine 13 to provide operational and functional statistics relating to each game played and each gaming machine 13. The management system also has the facility to change the denomination of moneys of the gaming machine 13 and display corresponding instructional information. The management system also stores information regarding faults, their diagnosis and instructions on how to repair the faults. The management system also records faults and gaming machine history. The management system also has the facility to generate and transmit promotional information and displays to the gaming machines 13. The management system is also used to control terminal-to-terminal communications, which allow messages and/or graphics to be moved from one terminal's screen to another.

Data concerning the usage of each game is provided as feedback to the host controller 11 from the local controller 12 in order to monitor user trends and satisfy user demands. Each gaming machine 13 is operatively linked to a local controller 12. The operative link may be by means of a wireless connection or a wired connection. Information transmitted through a wireless connection from the local controller 12 to the gaming machines 13 is encrypted. Where there are two or more gaming machines 13 in the venue, they may be wired together in series. With a series type connection or with suitable programming, messages or light features can be displayed from one gaming machine 13 to the next.

With reference to Figures 2 and 3, there is shown a gaming machine 20 having an outer plastic casing 21 , a top box panel 22, a main screen panel 23 and an interactive console 24. There is also shown a beacon light 25 positioned on top of the gaming machine 20 for alerting management to a faulty machine, requesting assistance from a user of the particular machine, additional gaming or promotional purposes. The top box panel 22 has a screen displaying graphic artwork relevant to the game operating on the gaming machine 20. The screen of the top box panel 22 can also display instructions for the game. These instructions are accessible through the console player buttons.

The console 24 has two play buttons 30 on either side to accommodate ambidextrous players and provide additional comfort to the left handed player. The design of the buttons on the interactive console 24 allows the same buttons to be used for different games played on the same gaming machine 20. The buttons are controlled by the processor of the gaming machine 20 and the game programming firmware. In this way the same console 24 can be used for different games. Consequently, when a game is changed there is no need to send a technician on- site to change the console 24 and artwork/instructions for the new game. The console 24 has a series of push buttons including a menu button 31 , a rules button 32 to display the rules of a particular game, a gamble button 33, a 'take win' button 34, a collect button 35 and betting buttons 36. The betting buttons 36 are arranged to allow the user to choose the number of lines and bets per line by using the 'bet up/down' and 'lines up/down' buttons 36. The versatility of the arrangement of the betting buttons 36 allows the user to make a bet irrespective of the number of lines and amounts per line.

The gaming machine 20 also has a single key switch 26. A venue operator can actuate the single key switch 26 by inserting and turning the relevant key. When the key switch 26 is in the operative position a menu screen appears on the main screen panel 23 providing a selection of audit menu functions, fault diagnosis and repair instructions and resetting of values of different parameters.

The gaming machine 20 may also include a card reader for the reading of specific smart cards specific for the system. The smart cards are issued by operators of the system for gambling on the gaming system. The smart card has an electronic monetary purse, player limits on the size of the bet, the amount of money spent in any one set period and the length of time that a person gambles. As a consequence, a player using a card will be prevented from exceeding their monetary or time limits and an automatic "cooling off period" is imposed before they can recommence gambling. In this way, responsible gambling behaviour is imposed on the player. Furthermore, card based gambling provides additional security by having a cashless environment. With card based gambling, transfers of money directly from the user's bank account can be made and loaded onto the cards. As well the cards can earn the user loyalty rewards associated with their use at a particular venue rather than another venue where the gaming system is operating. ADVANTAGES

The preferred embodiment of the gaming system provides the advantage that games and other software can be changed on gaming machines without requiring a technician to provide on-site modification. The ability to change games on a single gaming machine results from providing a more compatible interface between the gaming machine and game servers. As a consequence there is no downtime for a gaming machine, no labour costs with the call out of a technician, and games can be selected on gaming machines to suit patron preferences. With the game system, venue management has a better control over the gaming machines and can analyze usage to better cater for patrons and maximize profits.

VARIATIONS It will of course be realised that while the foregoing has been given by way of illustrative example of this invention, all such and other modifications and variations thereto as would be apparent to persons skilled in the art are deemed to fall within the broad scope and ambit of this invention as is herein set forth.

Throughout the description and claims this specification the word "comprise" and variations of that word such as "comprises" and "comprising", are not intended to exclude other additives, components, integers or steps.

Claims

CLAlMS

1. A gaming machine including at least one processor encoded with game programming for a game, said game programming includes firmware and game software; an interactive console for the playing of the game, said console is operatively associated with the firmware to allow the console to be used to play the game encoded by the game software; and display means includes one or more display members, said display means is operatively associated with the game software to display game information and or relevant artwork, wherein a game on the machine can be changed by installing game programming for the new game.

2. A gaming machine as claimed in claim 1 wherein new game programming is installed by loading a disc with the game programming on the machine or downloading the game programming over a network.

3. A gaming machine as claimed in claim 1 wherein RAM of the processor is cleared and reset with the installation of new game programming.

4. A gaming machine for the playing of a game from downloadable game programming including a processor adapted to process game programming for the playing of a game; an interactive console adapted for the playing of different games, said console is operatively associated with the playing of the game and controlled by the processor and the installed game programming; and display means includes one or more display members for the providing of game information and or relevant artwork, the display on each display member is controlled by the processor, wherein the game programming encodes the game and associated information for display on said one or more display members.

5. A gaming machine as claimed in claim 4 wherein the interactive console has a universal button configuration suitable for the playing of different games and the buttons on the universal button console can actuate the same or different functions for different games.

6. A gaming machine as claimed in claim 4 or 5 wherein there are two play initiating buttons on either side of the interactive console to allow ambidextrous game play and additional comfort for left handed players.

7. A gaming machine as claimed in claim 4 or 5 wherein the interactive console for a gaming machine has two play initiating buttons on either side of the console panel, a menu button, a rules button, a gamble button, a 'take win' button, betting

buttons and a collect button.

8. A gaming machine as claimed in claim 7 wherein 'lines up' and 'lines down' functions are provided as secondary functions to existing buttons.

9. A gaming machine including at least one processor encoded with game programming for a game, said game programming includes firmware and game software; an interactive console for the playing of the game, said console is operatively associated with the firmware to allow the console to be used to play the game encoded by the game software, said console has a universal button configuration suitable for the playing of different games; and display means includes one or more display members, said display means is operatively associated with the game software to display game information and or relevant artwork, wherein a game on the machine can be changed by installing game programming for the new game.

10. A gaming machine as claimed in claim 9 wherein the display members include top box panels, main screen panels or both, said display information is downloaded as part of or in conjunction with the game programming.

11. A gaming machine including at least one processor encoded with game programming for a game, said game programming includes firmware and game software; an interactive console for the playing of the game, said console is operatively associated with the firmware to allow the console to be used to play the game encoded by the game software, said console has a universal button configuration

suitable for the playing of different games; and display means includes one or more display members, said display means is operatively associated with the game software to display game information and or relevant artwork, the one or more display members include a top box panel, wherein a game on the machine can be changed by installing game programming for the new game.

12. A gaming machine as claimed in claim 11 wherein the gaming machine downloads the game programming from a local controller and runs the game programming at the particular venue.

13. A gaming machine as claimed in claim 12 wherein the local controller has an internet or dedicated network link to a remote host controller from where the game programming is downloaded.

14. A gaming machine as claimed in claim 11 wherein the game programming includes game software, operating system software and hardware firmware.

15. A gaming machine as claimed in claim 11 wherein the gaming machine can display a site map for the venue, said site map includes the location of venue facilities such as toilets, restaurants, bars, other gaming machines, automatic teller machines and cashiers, and identifies the current location of the gaming machine, said site map is accessible via the player buttons on the interactive console.

16. A gaming machine as claimed in claim 12 wherein each gaming machine is programmed to monitor its' usage and provide a message to the local controller when a preset maintenance service check is reached, said preset maintenance service includes the cleaning and lubrication of the machine's coin hopper after a predetermined number of coins have been collected.

17. A gaming machine as claimed in claim 11 wherein each gaming machine has a fault diagnostic screen or message displayed when there is a fault.

18. A gaming machine as claimed in claim 17 wherein the fault diagnostic screen and instructions to repair the fault is displayed via the player buttons on the console, said instructions include steps to repair the fault and relevant diagrams are accessed via a computer menu display.

19. A gaming machine as claimed in claim 17 wherein a fault message is sent to the local controller advising of the fault and which machine is faulty.

20. A gaming machine as claimed in claim 11 wherein the gaming machine has a single key switch with a single operative position which when turned to the operative position displays a menu screen, said menu screen displays functions related to the operation of the machine including audit menu functions such as electronic meter displays, error and fault analysis and repair instructions, and resetting of values of different parameters such as jackpot wins.

21. A gaming machine including at least one processor encoded with game programming for a game, said game programming includes firmware and game software; an interactive console for the playing of the game, said console is operatively associated with the firmware to allow the console to be used to play the game encoded by the game software; display means includes one or more display members, said display means is operatively associated with the game software to display game information and or relevant artwork; and a single key switch with a single operative position which when turned to the operative position displays a menu screen on one of the display members, wherein a game on the machine can be changed by installing game programming for the new game.

22. A gaming system for a venue including one or more gaming machines as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 21 ; and a local controller operatively associated with each of the gaming machines wherein said local controller provides game programming to each of said gaming machines, each of the gaming machines provides operational information including status information to the local controller for use in controlling the gaming machine to maximize their use or in accordance with the venue owner's instructions.

23. A gaming system as claimed in claim 22 wherein the local controller includes a local server which stores one or more games that are downloadable to one or more of the gaming machines, said one or more games can be downloaded to one or more of the gaming machines at any desired time.

24. A gaming system as claimed in claim 22 wherein a game can be repeatedly downloaded to one or more of the gaming machines and the game can be downloaded in response to patron game preferences attending the venue.

25. A gaming system as claimed in claim 22 wherein the local controller has a management system which includes one or more of the following features: a venue map showing location of the gaming machines; operational status for each gaming machine; remote testing for each gaming machine; operational and functional statistics for each gaming machine; usage statistics for each game; ability to download software, including games and firmware, to a gaming machine; change denomination of gaming machine; change return to player of a game denomination display; promotion controller; storage of critical faults; terminal-to-terminal communications; and message display where the gaming machine requires attendant intervention, detection of critical faults, or detecting a non-responsive gaming machine.

26. A gaming system as claimed in claim 22 wherein each gaming machine is operatively linked so that messages or displays can be sent from one gaming machine to the next gaming machine.

27. A gaming system as claimed in claim 22 wherein new game programming installation is monitored by the relevant authorities and includes electronically notifying the monitoring system that a game change has been requested by the local controller; verification by the monitoring system that the game for installation has been approved by the relevant authorities; and notification by the monitoring system to the gaming machine that the game can be installed from the local controller.

28. A gaming system as claimed in claim 22 wherein new game programming installation is monitored by the relevant authorities and includes electronically notifying the monitoring system that a game change has been requested by the local controller; verification by the monitoring system that the game for installation has been approved by the relevant authorities; and notification by the monitoring system to the local controller that the game can be installed from the local controller.

29 A gaming system including one or more gaming machines as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 21 , each of said gaming machines are located at a venue; a local controller operatively associated with each of the gaming machines, said local controller provides game programming to each of said gaming machines, said each gaming machine provides operational information including status information to the local controller for use in controlling the gaming machine to maximize their use or in accordance with the venue owner's instructions; and a host controller remotely located and provides game programming to the local controller for use with the gaming machines.

30. A gaming system as claimed in claim 29 wherein said host controller provides the game programming via the intranet, suitable secured network or the internet to one or more local controllers.

31. A gaming system as claimed in claim 29 wherein said host controller stores the various games and other software and includes an interactive authorizing means through which games and software updates are authorized and securely transmitted to the authorized local controller at the venue.

32. A gaming system as claimed in claim 29 wherein said host controller is able to collect and analyze game history information including usage from each venue.

33. A gaming system as claimed in claim 32 wherein game history data can be gathered with respect to the time of the day and the popular games can be downloaded to the one or more gaming machines according to historical data of patron game preferences.