H5G: Next we pick the symbols that will relate to the theme of the game. Obviously we would not put a rocket ship in a game with a Western theme. While this sounds simple there are some considerations we must think about when choosing the symbols. Once we choose the symbols we have to assign them a hierarchy that can be easily understood by the player. For instance a player can easily determine that a symbol for a bar of gold would be worth more than a lump of coal but not all of them are that easy to distinguish. We want to make it easy for a player to understand the game. We would like the player to be able to understand the game within a few spins. If the game is confusing they will lose interest. The symbols play an important part in doing this.
BB: What about a bonus screens? Do you have to write a script?
H5G: If there is a bonus activity we develop a general idea of about how it will work and what symbols will trigger its activation. Some times there are multiple bonuses. There can be a bonus in the main game such as scatter pays as well as individual secondary bonus screens. In Big Top Circus there were two different secondary bonuses, the tightrope and the cannon screens. Later we will write a full script for the animation.
BB: You then have to make a pay table for the game?
H5G: After we have the symbols we develop a pay table and assign it to the symbols and to the activities in bonus rounds. We then make a simple working program with rough symbols and artwork for the game to see how it plays.
BB: What happens after that?
H5G: After having the general concept and making a rough program, the first step is to check the mathematics of the game. It has to be fair to the player as well as the casino. The pay table can’t be too heavily weighted in one direction or the other. The game must have a return that is in accordance with the Casino Control Commission who will also test the game before giving it final approval. Also you want the probability of the player reaching the bonus round frequent enough to keep interest.
BB: Is this is determined by the number of symbols on the reel? H5G: The number of reels along with the number of times each symbol appears on the reel determines the mathematical probability of a winning or losing combination or the combinations of symbols that will trigger the bonus round.
BB: Provided the math is correct what happens?
H5G: Legal research must be done to make sure there are no copyright infringements with the title, concept or symbols that are used in the game. At this time there is an application made for patent protection. Later as the game is finished it will be fully patented and trademarked.
We then give the game to our graphic artist and programmers who will make sure the graphics are visually pleasing to the player. Sometimes a simple change in the artwork such as the background for a symbol can mean all the difference. At this time the final scripts must be written for bonus round. These are mini-cartoons consisting of high quality animations along with music and sound effects. All of this must be programmed into the computer. The game is played and tested. Sometimes it may be modified or redone to make sure it is as entertaining and interesting for the players. After we are satisfied we will begin to market the game.
BB: How long does it take to get a new slot game on to the casino floor?
H5G: From start to finish it can take a year or more to be designed produced, field tested and approved by the Casino Control Commission.
BB: Are there any advantages to being an independent producer of casino games?
H5G: One advantage having more than one company to decide the fate of a game. Just like the independent Television Producer can take a show to different TV Networks if it doesn’t fit in the schedule of one Network, High 5 Games can approach other game makers if necessary. The game turned down by one company may well be a big hit for another.
As I was leaving I posed one more question to Howard, Tony and Dan. I asked what made High 5 Games so successful. They all had the same answer….”We Love the Games!”
What’s not to love about having a job creating some of the Hottest Slot Games in the country? I’m sure we will all be seeing more High 5 Games on the Casino floor in the years to come.
Until next time, remember:
"Luck comes and goes...Knowledge Stays Forever!"