Preventing a media display from hijacking a gaming machine

BACKGROUND

p-0002The embodiments described herein relate generally to electronic gaming machines and, more particularly, to systems and methods for use in preventing the undesirable use of a gaming machine by an outside process.

p-0003Current functionality of at least some known gaming machines enables a media display to be opened on a game screen to augment the game play experience with functionality such as bonusing and player tracking. However, known functionality may also provide an infrastructure to graphically control operation of the entire gaming machine by displaying a full screen “game overlay” media display. For example, at least some known game overlay media displays include button functionality that enables complete player interaction with the game provided by the overlay rather than the game provided by the base software within the gaming machine.

p-0004Moreover, modern communication protocols enable sufficient information to be exchanged between the gaming machine and one or more servers such that a server is capable of tracking when money is inserted and/or received by a player, when game play is started on the gaming machine, the number and amount of wagers made by the player, when a bonus is obtained, and/or when game play completes. At least some known servers also control the amount of money at stake in the gaming machine, in form of electronic credits, and/or control game outcomes that are then displayed by the gaming machine. Although the exchange of such information is useful, such functionality also facilitates the use of overlays for playing games that are not provided or intended for use with the gaming machines.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION

p-0005In one aspect, a gaming machine includes a display device and a processor coupled to the display device. The processor is configured to monitor at least one display property of a media display on the display device, detect that the at least one display property is equal or greater than a preselected threshold, and generate an alert in response to the detection.

p-0006In another aspect, a method includes displaying a first video image and a second video image via a display device, monitoring at least one display property of the second video image, detecting a hijacking condition by the second video image, and generating an alert in response to the hijacking condition.

p-0007In another aspect, one or more computer-readable storage media are provided with computer-executable components, including a display component that when executed by at least one processor causes the processor to display a first video image and a second video image via a display device, and a detection component that when executed by at least one processor causes the processor to detect a hijacking condition when the second video image includes at least one display property that violates a corresponding display condition.

p-0008In yet another aspect, a gaming machine controller includes a memory area configured to store data representative of a game image, and a processor coupled to the memory area. The processor is configured to monitor at least one display property of a media display on a display device, detect that the at least one display property is equal or greater than a preselected threshold, and generate an alert in response to the detection.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

p-0009<figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref> is a schematic block diagram of an exemplary gaming machine;

p-0010<figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2</figref> is a block schematic diagram of an exemplary gaming system that includes a plurality of gaming machines a shown in <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>;

p-0011<figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref> is a block functional diagram of the gaming machine shown in <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>; and

p-0012<figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4</figref> is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary method for detecting a hijack state of the gaming machine shown in <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

p-0013Exemplary embodiments of apparatus, methods, and computer-readable storage media having computer-executable components for use in preventing a media display from hijacking a gaming machine are described herein. The embodiments described herein facilitate providing a course of action for a gaming machine manufacturer to prevent an undesired and/or unauthorized configuration or use of a gaming machine. Moreover, the embodiments described herein maintain adherence to required gaming industry standards with regard to communication and/or display of games, services offered to players, and the like.

p-0014As used herein, an element or step recited in the singular and proceeded with the word “a” or “an” should be understood as not excluding plural elements or steps, unless such exclusion is explicitly recited. Furthermore, references to “one embodiment” of the present invention are not intended to be interpreted as excluding the existence of additional embodiments that also incorporate the recited features.

p-0015<figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref> is a schematic block diagram of an exemplary gaming machine <b>100</b>. In the exemplary embodiment, gaming machine <b>100</b> includes a gaming machine controller <b>102</b> including at least one processor <b>104</b>, such as a microprocessor, a microcontroller-based platform, a suitable integrated circuit or one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs). Processor <b>104</b> is coupled with or operable to access or to exchange signals with at least one data storage or memory area <b>106</b>. In one embodiment, processor <b>104</b> and memory area <b>106</b> reside within a cabinet (not shown in <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>) of gaming machine <b>100</b>. Processor <b>104</b> and memory area <b>106</b> may be collectively referred to herein as a “computer” or “controller.”

p-0016Memory area <b>106</b> stores program code and instructions, executable by processor <b>104</b>, to control gaming machine <b>100</b>. Memory area <b>106</b> also stores other data such as image data, event data, player input data, random or pseudo-random number generators, pay-table data or information and applicable game rules that relate to the play of gaming machine <b>100</b>. Memory area <b>106</b> may include one, or more than one, forms of memory. For example, memory area <b>106</b> can include random access memory (RAM), which can include non-volatile RAM (NVRAM), magnetic RAM (MRAM), ferroelectric RAM (FeRAM) and other forms of memory. Memory area <b>106</b> may also include read only memory (ROM), flash memory and/or Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory (EEPROM). Any other suitable magnetic, optical and/or semiconductor memory, by itself or in combination with other forms of memory, may be included in memory area <b>106</b>. Memory area <b>106</b> may also be, or include, a detachable or removable memory, including, but not limited to, a suitable cartridge, disk, CD ROM, DVD or USB memory. A player can use such removable memory in a desktop, a laptop personal computer, a personal digital assistant (PDA) or other computerized platform.

p-0017In one embodiment, gaming machine <b>100</b> randomly generates awards and/or other game outcomes based on probability data. That is, each award or other game outcome is associated with a probability and gaming machine <b>100</b> generates the award or other game outcome to be provided to the player based on the associated probabilities. In this embodiment, because gaming machine <b>100</b> generates outcomes randomly or based upon a probability calculation, there is no certainty that gaming machine <b>100</b> will ever provide the player with any specific award or other game outcome. Such random determination could be provided through utilization of a random number generator (RNG), such as a true random number generator, a pseudo random number generator or other suitable randomization process.

p-0018In another embodiment, gaming machine <b>100</b> employs a predetermined or finite set or pool of awards or other game outcomes. In this embodiment, as each award or other game outcome is provided to the player, gaming machine <b>100</b> removes the provided award or other game outcome from the predetermined set or pool. Once removed from the set or pool, the specific provided award or other game outcome cannot be provided to the player again. This type of gaming device provides players with all of the available awards or other game outcomes over the course of the play cycle and guarantees the amount of actual wins and losses.

p-0019In yet another embodiment, upon a player initiating game play at gaming machine <b>100</b>, gaming machine <b>100</b> enrolls in a bingo game. In this embodiment, a bingo server calls the bingo balls that result in a specific game outcome. The resultant game outcome is communicated to the individual gaming machine <b>100</b> to be provided to a player.

p-0020Referring still to <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>, gaming machine <b>100</b> includes one or more display devices <b>108</b>, <b>110</b> that are controlled by controller <b>102</b>. Display devices <b>108</b> and <b>110</b> are mounted to the cabinet of gaming machine <b>100</b>. Gaming machine <b>100</b> includes a central display device <b>108</b>, which displays a primary game. Display device <b>108</b> may also display any secondary game associated with the primary game as well as information relating to the primary or secondary game. Display device <b>110</b> may, for example, be an upper display device <b>110</b>. Upper display device <b>110</b> may display the primary game, any suitable secondary game associated with the primary game and/or information relating to the primary or secondary game. At least one display device <b>108</b> and <b>110</b> may be a mobile display device, such as a PDA or tablet PC that enables play of at least a portion of the primary or secondary game at a location remote from other components of gaming machine <b>100</b>.

p-0021In the exemplary embodiment, gaming machine <b>100</b> includes a credit display <b>112</b>, which displays a player's current number of credits, cash, account balance or the equivalent. Gaming machine <b>100</b> also includes a bet display <b>114</b> which displays a player's amount wagered. Credit display <b>112</b> and bet display <b>114</b> may be standalone displays independent of display devices <b>108</b> and <b>110</b>, or credit display <b>112</b> and bet display <b>114</b> may be incorporated into display devices <b>108</b> and/or <b>110</b>.

p-0022Display devices <b>108</b> and/or <b>110</b> may include, without limitation, a monitor, a television display, a plasma display, a liquid crystal display (LCD), a display based on light emitting diodes (LED), a display based on a plurality of organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs), a display based on polymer light-emitting diodes (PLEDs), a display based on a plurality of surface-conduction electron-emitters (SEDs), a display including a projected and/or reflected image or any other suitable electronic device or display mechanism. In one embodiment, as described in more detail below, display devices <b>108</b> and/or <b>110</b> includes a touch-screen <b>116</b> with an associated touch-screen controller <b>118</b>. Display devices <b>108</b> and/or <b>110</b> may be of any suitable configuration, such as a square, a rectangle or an elongated rectangle. Touch-screen <b>116</b> is coupled with touch-screen controller <b>118</b>, or some other touch-sensitive display overlay to enable player interaction with the images on display devices <b>108</b> and/or <b>110</b>.

p-0023Display devices <b>108</b> and/or <b>110</b> are configured to display one or more game or other suitable images, symbols and indicia such as any visual representation or exhibition of the movement of objects such as mechanical, virtual or video reels and wheels, dynamic lighting, video images, images of people, characters, places, things and faces of cards, tournament advertisements and the like.

p-0024In one alternative embodiment, the symbols, images and indicia displayed on or of the display device may be in mechanical form. That is, the display device may include any electromechanical device, such as one or more mechanical objects, such as one or more rotatable wheels, reels or dice, configured to display at least one and preferably a plurality of game or other suitable images, symbols or indicia with an electronic display overlay.

p-0025Still referring to <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>, gaming machine <b>100</b> includes at least one payment acceptor <b>120</b> in communication with controller <b>102</b>. Payment acceptor <b>120</b> includes a coin slot <b>122</b> and a payment, note or bill acceptor <b>124</b>, where the player inserts money, coins or tokens. The player can place coins in coin slot <b>122</b> or paper money, ticket or voucher into payment, note or bill acceptor <b>124</b>. Devices such as a card reader or validator <b>126</b> for credit cards, debit cards or credit slips may be used to accept payment. An identification card and/or a smart card having a programmed microchip or a magnetic strip coded with a player's identification, credit totals and other relevant information may be used. In one embodiment, money may be transferred to a gaming machine through electronic funds transfer (EFT). When a player funds gaming machine <b>100</b>, controller <b>102</b> determines the amount of funds entered and displays the corresponding amount on credit display <b>112</b> as described above.

p-0026Gaming machine <b>100</b> also includes one or more input devices <b>128</b> that are communicatively coupled to controller <b>102</b>. Input devices <b>128</b> include any suitable device which enables the player to produce an input signal which is readable by controller <b>102</b>. In one embodiment, input device <b>128</b> is a game activation device, such as a pull arm or a play button which is used by the player to start any primary game or sequence of events in gaming machine <b>100</b>. The play button can be any suitable play activator. In one embodiment, upon appropriate funding, gaming machine <b>100</b> begins the game play automatically. In another embodiment, upon the player engaging one of the play buttons, gaming machine <b>100</b> automatically activates game play.

p-0027One input device <b>128</b> may be a “Bet One” button. The player places a bet by pushing the Bet One button. The player can increase the bet by one credit each time the player pushes the Bet One button. When the player pushes the Bet One button, the number of credits shown in credit display <b>112</b> decrements by one, and the number of credits shown in bet display <b>114</b> increments by one. Another input device may be a “Bet Max” button which enables the player to bet the maximum wager permitted for a game of gaming machine <b>100</b>.

p-0028Yet another input device <b>128</b> may be a “Cash Out” button. The player may push the Cash Out button to receive a cash payment or other suitable form of payment corresponding to the number of remaining credits. When the player cashes out, the player receives the coins or tokens in a coin payout tray (not shown in <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>) or other payout mechanisms, such as tickets or credit slips, redeemable by a cashier, or funding to the player's electronically recordable identification card.

p-0029Touch-screen <b>116</b> and touch-screen controller <b>118</b> are communicatively coupled to a video controller <b>130</b>. A player can make decisions and input signals into gaming machine <b>100</b> by touching touch-screen <b>116</b> at appropriate places. Gaming machine <b>100</b> also includes one or more communication ports <b>132</b> that enable communication of controller <b>102</b> with external peripherals (not shown in <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>), such as, but not limited to, external video sources, expansion buses, game or other displays, a SCSI port or a key pad.

p-0030In the exemplary embodiment, gaming machine <b>100</b> includes a sound generating device <b>134</b> that is controlled by one or more sounds cards <b>136</b>, which function in conjunction with controller <b>102</b>. Sound generating device <b>134</b> includes at least one speaker or other sound generating hardware and/or software for generating sounds, such as playing music for the primary and/or secondary game or for other modes of gaming machine <b>100</b>, such as an attract mode. Gaming machine <b>100</b> provides dynamic sounds coupled with attractive multimedia images displayed on one or more of display devices <b>108</b> and/or <b>110</b> to provide an audio-visual representation or to otherwise display full-motion video with sound to attract players to gaming machine <b>100</b>. During idle periods, gaming machine <b>100</b> may display a sequence of audio and/or visual attraction messages to attract potential players to gaming machine <b>100</b>. The videos may also be customized for or to provide any appropriate information.

p-0031In the exemplary embodiment, gaming machine <b>100</b> includes a sensor <b>138</b>, such as a camera communicatively coupled to and/or controlled by controller <b>102</b>. Sensor <b>138</b> is selectively positionable to acquire an image of a player actively using gaming machine <b>100</b> and/or an area surrounding gaming machine <b>100</b>. In one embodiment, the camera may selectively acquire still or moving (e.g., video) images and may acquire the images in either an analog, digital or other suitable format. Display devices <b>108</b> and/or <b>110</b> may display the image acquired by the camera, as well as display the visible manifestation of the game in split screen or picture-in-picture fashion. For example, the camera may acquire an image of the player and the processor may incorporate that image into the primary and/or secondary game as a game image, symbol or indicia. Furthermore, gaming machine <b>100</b> is capable of communicatively coupling to a network (not shown in <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>) via a network interface <b>140</b>.

p-0032Gaming machine <b>100</b> can incorporate any suitable wagering primary or base game. Gaming machine <b>100</b> may include some or all of the features of conventional gaming machines or devices. The primary or base game may comprise any suitable reel-type game, card game, number game or other game of chance susceptible to representation in an electronic or electromechanical form which produces a random outcome based on probability data upon activation from a wager. That is, different primary wagering games, such as video poker games, video blackjack games, video Keno, video bingo or any other suitable primary or base game may be implemented.

p-0033In some embodiments, memory area <b>106</b> includes one or more computer-readable storage media having computer-executable components. An exemplary component is a display component <b>142</b> that controls, for example, video controller <b>130</b> and/or display devices <b>108</b> and <b>110</b>. For example, display component <b>142</b> controls display of a first video image that represents a game and display of a second video image that represents a media display. Another exemplary component is a detection component <b>144</b> that detects when the second video image has one or more display properties that meet or exceed corresponding thresholds. Yet another exemplary component is a security component <b>146</b> that selectively enables and disables display of the second video image, as described in greater detail below.

p-0034<figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2</figref> is a block schematic diagram of an exemplary gaming system <b>200</b> that includes a plurality of gaming machines <b>100</b>. Each gaming machine <b>100</b> is coupled via a network connection <b>140</b> to one or more servers, such as a game server <b>202</b>, an accounting server <b>204</b>, and a player tracking server <b>206</b>. Each server <b>202</b>, <b>204</b>, and <b>206</b> includes a processor (not shown) that enables data communication between each gaming machine <b>100</b> and other components of gaming system <b>200</b>. Such data is stored in, for example, a database <b>208</b> coupled to each server <b>202</b>, <b>204</b>, and <b>206</b>. Moreover, each server <b>202</b>, <b>204</b>, and <b>206</b> also includes audio capabilities, such as a CD-ROM drive (not shown) or DVD-ROM drive (not shown), that are coupled to a sound card (not shown) for processing and transmitting digitized sound effects to one or more speakers <b>210</b> in response to commands issued over gaming system <b>200</b> by a corresponding server <b>202</b>, <b>204</b>, and/or <b>206</b>. Each server <b>202</b>, <b>204</b>, and <b>206</b> is also coupled via gaming system <b>200</b> to an electronic sign or screen <b>212</b> that displays information, such as via scrolling and/or flashing messages that indicate, for example, progressive and/or jackpot amounts, and that are visible to players playing gaming machines <b>100</b>. Messages for display on each electronic screen <b>212</b> are generated and/or modified in response to commands issued over gaming system <b>200</b> by servers <b>202</b>, <b>204</b>, and/or <b>206</b>.

p-0035As described above, gaming machines <b>100</b> may include video poker machines, video slot machines, and/or other similar gaming machines that implement alternative games. Moreover, gaming machines <b>100</b> may be terminal-based machines, wherein the actual games, including random number generation and/or outcome determination, are performed at a server, such as servers <b>202</b>, <b>204</b>, and/or <b>206</b>. In such an embodiment, gaming machine <b>100</b> displays results of the game via displays devices <b>108</b> and/or <b>110</b> (shown in <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>).

p-0036Moreover, in the exemplary embodiment, gaming system <b>200</b> includes a configuration workstation <b>214</b> that includes a user interface that enables an administrator to set up and/or to modify portions of gaming system <b>200</b> and/or servers <b>202</b>, <b>204</b>, and <b>206</b>. Player tracking server <b>206</b> tracks data of players using gaming machines <b>100</b>, and also controls messages that appear on each display device <b>108</b> and/or <b>110</b> of gaming machines <b>100</b>. In the exemplary embodiment, player tracking server <b>206</b> also stores physical characteristics of players, such as, but not limited to, the player age and/or vision data. Game server <b>202</b> controls bonus applications or bonus systems that award bonus opportunities on gaming system <b>200</b>. Moreover, game server <b>202</b> includes a set of rules for awarding jackpots in excess of those established by winning pay tables (not shown) of each gaming machine <b>100</b>. Some bonus awards may be awarded randomly, while other bonus awards may be made to groups of gaming machines <b>100</b> operating in a progressive jackpot mode. Player tracking server <b>206</b> may store data related to the players and tracked using player tracking identification, such as a player card. Moreover, player tracking server <b>206</b> may store information and data about the player such as loyalty points, player address, phone number, and/or any information that may be retrieved and transmitted to the game server <b>202</b>. Accounting server <b>204</b> may store and track information such as, but not limited to, the average amount of wager played by the player, and/or any funds the player may have in an account.

p-0037Furthermore, in the exemplary embodiment, gaming system <b>200</b> includes one or more remote computers <b>216</b> and/or mobile devices <b>218</b> that access gaming system <b>200</b> via an external network, such as the Internet <b>220</b>.

p-0038<figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref> is a block functional diagram <b>300</b> of gaming machine <b>100</b>. In the exemplary embodiment, gaming machine controller <b>102</b> (shown in <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>) includes one or more game programs <b>302</b>, a media display program <b>304</b>, and a graphics renderer <b>306</b>. Each program <b>302</b>, <b>304</b>, and <b>306</b> may be stored by, for example, memory area <b>106</b> (shown in <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>) for execution by processor <b>104</b> (shown in <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>). In an alternative embodiment, programs <b>302</b>, <b>304</b>, and/or <b>306</b> are stored by memory area <b>106</b> for execution by video controller <b>130</b>. In the exemplary embodiment, each game program <b>302</b> includes, for example and not by way of limitation, attraction graphics and sounds, primary game graphics and sounds, bonus game graphics and sounds, one or more paytables, celebration graphics and sounds, graphics representative of player interaction buttons, and/or tilt condition graphics and sounds. In addition, each game program <b>302</b> includes critical objects associated with a game, such as a credit meter, a current wager meter, and a win meter.

p-0039Moreover, media display program <b>304</b> may be a service window program that includes, for example, graphics and sound for use in enabling player tracking services, service calls from gaming machine <b>100</b>, ordering refreshments and/or food from gaming machine <b>100</b>, and any other suitable services that may be offered to a player by a casino or gaming machine manufacturer. Notably, media display program <b>304</b> may be executed based on commands and/or data that are received from a server, such as servers <b>202</b>, <b>204</b>, and/or <b>206</b>. In some embodiments, graphics for display via media display program <b>304</b> are received by gaming machine <b>100</b> from a separate video source. Alternatively, media display program <b>304</b> receives the graphics from a separate module within gaming machine <b>100</b>. For example, the game graphics may be sent to graphics renderer <b>306</b> from a presentation process. Moreover, media display graphics may be sent to graphics renderer <b>306</b> from a multimedia player, such as a FLASH® player (FLASH® is a registered trademark of Adobe Systems Incorporated, San Jose, Calif., USA). Graphics renderer <b>306</b> uses the source of the various graphics elements to determine which elements are game graphics and which elements are media display graphics.

p-0040In the exemplary embodiment, graphics renderer <b>306</b> determines and/or monitors display positions, such as display coordinates, of elements of game programs <b>302</b> and media display program <b>304</b>. For example, graphics renderer <b>306</b> monitors, such as continuously or periodically monitors, display coordinates of the critical objects associated with a currently-enabled game program <b>302</b>, and stores data representative of the display coordinates in memory <b>106</b>. The critical objects may be marked with one or more tags that identify the critical objects to graphics renderer <b>306</b>. For example, a text box, such as a credit meter display, may specify a display position, size, font, and/or color of the text box. Moreover, the text box for the credit meter display may include a tag that identifies the text box as a critical object that should not be obscured by unknown or unlicensed display objects. A different text box, such as a “Play All Lines” text box, for example, may not be identified as a critical object, and would include tags that specify a display position, size, font, and/or color. In addition, graphics renderer <b>306</b> monitors, such as continuously or periodically monitors, display coordinates of media display program <b>304</b> such that graphics renderer <b>306</b> is capable of detecting that display of graphics elements of media display program <b>304</b> obscure graphics elements of game program <b>302</b>, such as the critical elements. Other display properties that may be monitored by graphics renderer <b>306</b> include, but are not limited to, dimensions of graphics elements of media display program <b>304</b> and/or an opacity of graphics elements of media display program <b>304</b>.

p-0041Furthermore, graphics renderer <b>306</b> determines whether media display program <b>304</b> is being executed by processor <b>104</b> in a hijack state such that gaming machine <b>100</b> has effectively become a slave to an outside process via media display program <b>304</b>. For example, graphics renderer <b>306</b> can detect when media display program <b>304</b> obscures one or more critical objects for more than a predetermined period of time by detecting an initial obscuring and initiating a timer. Alternatively, graphics renderer <b>306</b> can detect when media display program <b>304</b> obscures more than a preselected threshold percentage of area needed by game program <b>302</b>. Alternatively, graphics renderer <b>306</b> can detect when media display program <b>304</b> covers a threshold percentage of display area available on display device <b>108</b> or <b>110</b> (shown in <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>). Moreover, graphics renderer <b>306</b> can detect when media display program <b>304</b> has one or more display dimensions that are equal to or greater than a threshold value. Furthermore, graphics renderer <b>306</b> can detect when media display program <b>304</b> has one or more graphic elements that have an opacity equals or exceeds a threshold value. In an alternative embodiment, graphics renderer <b>306</b> passes data to video controller <b>130</b> to perform a check for a hijack state.

p-0042When graphics renderer <b>306</b> detects a hijack condition, graphics renderer <b>306</b> generates an alert, creates an error log entry, and/or requests an authorization code from the origin of media display program <b>304</b>, such as servers <b>202</b>, <b>204</b>, and/or <b>206</b>. Alternatively, graphics renderer <b>306</b> may simply deny display of media display program <b>304</b> when graphics renderer <b>306</b> detects a hijack condition. In addition, graphics renderer <b>306</b> detects when other conditions exist, such as a tilt condition or a celebration condition relating to game program <b>302</b>, and enables media display program <b>304</b> to continue display via display device <b>108</b> or <b>110</b>.

p-0043<figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4</figref> is a flowchart <b>400</b> illustrating an exemplary method for detecting a hijack state of a gaming machine, such as gaming machine <b>100</b> (shown in <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>) by a process, such as a media display program <b>304</b> (shown in <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref>). In the exemplary embodiment, gaming machine <b>100</b> displays <b>402</b> a first video image. For example, the first video image may include graphics elements according to game program <b>302</b> (shown in <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref>), including one or more critical objects. In some embodiments, game program <b>302</b> declares the desired display coordinates of the critical objects, and graphics renderer <b>306</b> (shown in <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref>) stores the display coordinates in memory area <b>106</b> (shown in <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>). In addition, graphics renderer <b>306</b> monitors, such as continuously or periodically monitors, the display coordinates of the critical objects to determine whether any of the critical objects are obscured on a display device, such as central display device <b>108</b> or upper display device <b>110</b> (both shown in <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>).

p-0044Moreover, in the exemplary embodiment, gaming machine <b>100</b> displays <b>404</b> a second video image. Graphics elements in the second video image may be controlled by game program <b>302</b> in a celebration condition or in a tilt condition, or may be controlled by media display program <b>304</b>. For example, media display program <b>304</b> may receive data and/or commands from a remote computer, such as server <b>202</b>, <b>204</b>, and/or <b>206</b> (shown in <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2</figref>). Gaming machine <b>100</b> monitors <b>406</b>, such as continuously or periodically monitors, display properties of the second video image and detects <b>408</b> a hijack condition based on that monitoring. If graphics renderer <b>306</b> detects <b>408</b> the hijack condition, graphics renderer <b>306</b> selectively enables or disables <b>410</b> display of the second video image. If graphics renderer <b>306</b> does not detect <b>408</b> the hijack condition, graphic renderer <b>306</b> enable <b>412</b> display of the second video image. In addition, graphics renderer <b>306</b> continues to monitor <b>406</b> the display properties of the second video image to detect <b>408</b> the hijack condition.

p-0045For example, in the exemplary embodiment, graphics renderer <b>306</b> compares display coordinates of graphic elements of the second video image with the stored display coordinates of the critical objects within game program <b>302</b>. If one or more of the critical objects is obscured by the second video image, graphics renderer <b>306</b> initiates a timer and determines whether the critical objects are obscured for a preselected time period. If graphics renderer <b>306</b> determines that the critical objects are obscured for at least the preselected time period, graphics renderer <b>306</b> requests an authorization code from media display program <b>304</b>. The authorization code may then be obtained from the originator of the process, such as server <b>202</b>, <b>204</b>, and/or <b>206</b>. Graphics renderer <b>306</b> verifies the authorization code using any suitable verification process, and enables or disables further display of the second video image based on the result. Alternatively, graphics renderer <b>306</b> may simply disable display of the second video image either entirely or in the display coordinates defined for the critical objects.

p-0046In an alternative embodiment, graphics renderer <b>306</b> determines a percentage of central display device <b>108</b> or upper display device <b>110</b> that is being requested or used to display the second video image. If the percentage is equal to or greater than a preselected threshold percentage, graphics renderer <b>306</b> selectively disables or enables further display of the second video image as described above. In another alternative embodiment, prior to display of the second video image, graphics renderer <b>306</b> determines whether one or more critical elements of the first video image or a threshold percentage of first video image would be obscured by the second video image. In such an embodiment, graphics renderer <b>306</b> disables display of the second video image.

p-0047In another alternative embodiment, graphics renderer <b>306</b> determines the display dimensions of the second video image based on the display coordinates of the second video image. If one or more of the display dimensions are equal to or greater than a preselected threshold value, graphics renderer <b>306</b> selectively disables or enables further display of the second video image as described above. In yet another alternative embodiment, graphics renderer <b>306</b> determines color properties of graphics elements of the second video image, such as an opacity of the second video image. If, for example, the opacity of one or more graphics elements of the second video image is greater than a threshold value, graphics renderer <b>306</b> selectively disables or enables further display of the second video image as described above. Moreover, in another alternative embodiment, graphics renderer <b>306</b> determines whether the second video image includes any words, phrases, or images that are included in a player-selected or casino-selected list. If such items are detected, graphics renderer <b>306</b> selectively disables or enables further display of the second video image as described above. In yet another alternative embodiment, graphics renderer <b>306</b> detects whether the second video image obscures graphics elements of the first video image that are included in a list selected by the player, casino, or game manufacturer. For example, the game manufacturer may wish for its logo to be permanently displayed.

p-0048In the exemplary embodiment, gaming machine <b>100</b> also detects alternate conditions that mitigate obscuring of the first video image by the second video image. For example, gaming machine controller <b>102</b> may detect a tilt condition during play of game program <b>302</b>, and media display program <b>304</b> may control display of graphics associated with the tilt condition such that the graphics obscure one or more of the critical objects of the first video image and/or the threshold percentage of the first video image. During the tilt condition, graphics renderer <b>306</b> enables obscuring of the first video image in order to alert the player and/or casino service personnel of the tilt condition. Similarly, game program <b>302</b> may include celebration graphics for display as the second video image during a celebration condition. During the celebration condition, graphics renderer <b>306</b> enables obscuring of the first video image in order to facilitate offering additional excitement to the player. In some embodiments, graphics renderer <b>306</b> continues to monitor the second video image in order to detect technical issues that result in prolonged obscuring of the first video image.

p-0049In the exemplary embodiment, and regardless of whether additional display of the second video image is enabled, gaming machine <b>100</b> generates <b>414</b> an alert. For example, gaming machine controller <b>102</b> may generate an entry in an event log that is stored in memory area <b>106</b> or that is transmitted to server <b>202</b>, <b>204</b>, or <b>206</b>. Moreover, gaming machine controller <b>102</b> may transmit a service request to casino service personnel and/or to server <b>202</b>, <b>204</b>, or <b>206</b>.

p-0050The above-described alternative embodiment includes benefits to casinos, gaming machine manufacturers, and players alike. For example, casinos gain valuable repeat business from players that enjoy uninterrupted play of a desired game. Gaming machine manufacturers gain an ability to prevent unauthorized access and control of outside processes that may be capable of using the full functionality of a gaming machine in ways that were not intended by the manufacturer. In addition, players benefit by being assured that the game being played was indeed developed for the gaming machine to meet the requirements of gaming industry standards and gaming manufacturer standards.

p-0051As will be appreciated based on the foregoing specification, the above-described embodiments of the disclosure may be implemented using computer programming or engineering techniques including computer software, firmware, hardware or any combination or subset thereof, wherein the technical effect is preventing undesirable control of gaming machine functionality via a “game overlay” media display that includes customized themes and/or display elements. Any such resulting program, having computer-readable code means, may be embodied or provided within one or more computer-readable media, thereby making a computer program product, i.e., an article of manufacture, according to the discussed embodiments of the disclosure. The computer readable media may be, for example, but is not limited to, a fixed (hard) drive, diskette, optical disk, magnetic tape, semiconductor memory such as read-only memory (ROM), and/or any transmitting/receiving medium such as the Internet or other communication network or link. The article of manufacture containing the computer code may be made and/or used by executing the code directly from one medium, by copying the code from one medium to another medium, or by transmitting the code over a network.

p-0052The term “processor,” as used herein, refers to central processing units, microprocessors, microcontrollers, reduced instruction set circuits (RISC), application specific integrated circuits (ASIC), logic circuits, and any other circuit or processor capable of executing the functions described herein.

p-0053As used herein, the terms “software” and “firmware” are interchangeable, and include any computer program stored in memory for execution by processor <b>104</b>, including RAM memory, ROM memory, EPROM memory, EEPROM memory, and non-volatile RAM (NVRAM) memory. The above memory types are exemplary only, and are thus not limiting as to the types of memory usable for storage of a computer program.

p-0054A computer or controller, such as those described herein, includes at least one processor or processing unit and a system memory. The computer or controller typically has at least some form of computer readable media. By way of example and not limitation, computer readable media include computer storage media and communication media. Computer storage media include volatile and nonvolatile, removable and non-removable media implemented in any method or technology for storage of information such as computer readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data. Communication media typically embody computer readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data in a modulated data signal such as a carrier wave or other transport mechanism and include any information delivery media. Those skilled in the art are familiar with the modulated data signal, which has one or more of its characteristics set or changed in such a manner as to encode information in the signal. Combinations of any of the above are also included within the scope of computer readable media.

p-0055Although the present invention is described in connection with an exemplary gaming system environment, embodiments of the invention are operational with numerous other general purpose or special purpose gaming system environments or configurations. The gaming system environment is not intended to suggest any limitation as to the scope of use or functionality of any aspect of the invention. Moreover, the gaming system environment should not be interpreted as having any dependency or requirement relating to any one or combination of components illustrated in the exemplary operating environment. Examples of well known gaming systems, environments, and/or configurations that may be suitable for use with aspects of the invention include, but are not limited to, personal computers, server computers, hand-held or laptop devices, multiprocessor systems, microprocessor-based systems, set top boxes, programmable consumer electronics, mobile telephones, network PCs, minicomputers, mainframe computers, distributed computing environments that include any of the above systems or devices, and the like.

p-0056Embodiments of the invention may be described in the general context of computer-executable instructions, such as program components or modules, executed by one or more computers or other devices. Aspects of the invention may be implemented with any number and organization of components or modules. For example, aspects of the invention are not limited to the specific computer-executable instructions or the specific components or modules illustrated in the figures and described herein. Alternative embodiments of the invention may include different computer-executable instructions or components having more or less functionality than illustrated and described herein.

p-0057The order of execution or performance of the operations in the embodiments of the invention illustrated and described herein is not essential, unless otherwise specified. That is, the operations may be performed in any order, unless otherwise specified, and embodiments of the invention may include additional or fewer operations than those disclosed herein. For example, it is contemplated that executing or performing a particular operation before, contemporaneously with, or after another operation is within the scope of aspects of the invention.

p-0058This written description uses examples to disclose the invention, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the invention, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the invention is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the literal language of the claims.