Networked Gaming System and Method Including a Multi-Step Ladder Feature

Abstract

Wagering games, gaming machines, gaming systems and associated methods are disclosed that include a multi-step ladder feature. One disclosed aspect provides that an indicator be positioned on a ladder or scale when like indicia are displayed by the game. Another disclosed aspect provides that an award be paid based on the position of the indicator at the end of the game.

1 . A networked gaming system including:
 a plurality of gaming machines connected through a network to a server, at least one of the gaming machines including a game operable by a player, the game comprising a first game and a second game;   a triggering event, the second game activatable over a plurality of plays, the second game comprising a scale with an indicator movable on the scale as a result of each the plurality of plays; and   a payout mechanism for paying an award based on the position of the indicator on the scale upon occurrence of a predetermined condition.   
   
   
       2 . The gaming system of  claim 1  wherein the triggering event comprises the occurrence of a specific one of a set of possible first game outcomes. 
   
   
       3 . The gaming system of  claim 1  further comprising a game management unit operatively coupled to at least one of the gaming machines and to the network. 
   
   
       4 . The gaming system of  claim 1  wherein the gaming machines are connected for competitive play. 
   
   
       5 . The gaming system of  claim 1  where the gaming machines are connected for cooperative play. 
   
   
       6 . The gaming system of  claim 1  wherein game outcomes are determined by the server. 
   
   
       7 . A method of operating a networked gaming system, the method including the steps of: connecting a plurality of gaming machines comprising a game; for one of the games, selecting at least one of a set of possible outcomes for a first game; upon the occurrence of a triggering event, determining a plurality of a set of possible outcomes for a second game, the second game comprising a scale with an indicator movable on the scale as a result of each the plurality of outcomes; and paying an award based on the position of the indicator on the scale at the conclusion of the second game. 
   
   
       8 . The method of  claim 7  further comprising the step of connecting the plurality of gaming machines for cooperative play of the second game. 
   
   
       9 . The method of  claim 7  further comprising the step of connecting the plurality of gaming machines for competitive play of the second game. 
   
   
       10 . The method of  claim 7  further comprising displaying the second game on a player tracking system display at each of the gaming machines.