Central random number generation for gaming system

DETAILED DESCRIPTION According to the present invention, a central computer outputs random numbers or game outcome seeds (such as random number seeds) to a plurality of gaming terminals with the central computer outputting numerous game outcome seeds, one after another, preferably on a periodic basis wherein each seed which is broadcast can be received by a plurality of gaming terminals, preferably substantially simultaneously.
Each gaming terminal can output a win or loss outcome based on any game outcome seed received from the central computer.
Which of the seeds is used for making the win/loss determination at a given gaming terminal depends upon the time at which a user selects or activates that terminal, such as by placing a wager, pushing a button, making a touch screen selection, pulling a lever arm, and the like.
In one embodiment, the central computer outputs game outcome seeds at a high frequency, preferably sufficiently rapidly that it would be unlikely for any two machines to be activated or selected at the same time.
For example, if random number seeds are broadcast to all connected gaming terminals once every 250 milliseconds, any two gaming terminals would receive the same random number seed only if the players at those two machines activated the machines within 250 milliseconds of one another.
Because this near-simultaneous activation would typically be a rare event, the entertainment value of the game will be enhanced because it will be the perception of the players that their decision as to whether and when to play a given machine affects the win/loss outcome (regardless of the fact that the ultimate win/loss determination for any given machine is made at a central computer which simultaneously controls win/loss decisions of a plurality of connected gaming terminals).