A gaming machine comprises a visual display and a game of chance shown on the display. In connection with the game of chance, the visual display shows an array of symbols in visual association with at least one pay line. The array includes one or more special symbols. Each of the special symbols is associated with at least one of the other special symbols. The game of chance includes a plurality of game rounds. During each of the game rounds one or more of the special symbols appear in the array. In one embodiment, an interplay between two special symbols occurs if the symbols land in adjacent positions on a pay line. The interplay between the special symbols can occur as a part of a basic game round or may comprise a bonus round. The game of chance awards a payout during the round if the symbols along the pay line correspond to a winning game outcome. An interplay between special symbols may affect the location of one or more symbols in the array, thus affecting the game outcome and payout. Additionally, the interplay between special symbols may initiate a different payout schedule based on the results of the interaction.