A gaming device wherein when a certain symbol is displayed on a certain
reel in a certain combination of symbols, the symbol is adapted to be
changed or modified to at least one other symbol. That is, when at least
two flanking symbols are displayed on the reels but the two flanking
symbols are separated by at least one convertible symbol, the convertible
symbol is changed or modified to a flanking symbol. The player is
provided an award, if any, based on the combination of the flanking
symbols and the changed convertible symbol.