A slot machine, gaming method, and program product are provided to simulate a wheel spin interaction. A simulated wheel object is provided with physical simulation of movement interactions both with a player and with a simulated flapper object through simulated pin objects present on the wheel. Player interaction is simulated to allow wheel pull back and spin activation. Flapper interaction is simulated to provide realistic interaction of the wheel and flapper with displacement by the simulated pins in both directions. The wheel may also be decelerated and nudged by the simulated pins.