Gaming Machine And Gaming System

Abstract

In a gaming system of the present disclosure, a game server manages with respect to each player through a password an insurance amount which increments when an insurance bet is set at a gaming machine. Accordingly, when a player leaves a gaming machine, the player can retain his/her insurance amount by setting a password. After that, when the player resumes a game in the same gaming machine or another gaming machine, the insurance amount retained by the player can be reproduced through an entering of the same password as the password set by the player.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is based upon and claims a priority from the U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/099,682 filed on Sep. 24, 2008, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND

1. Field

The present disclosure relates to a gaming machine and a gaming system that have an insurance function.

2. Description of Related Art

Some conventional gaming machines, for instance, have an insurance function as is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,178,390. In the insurance function, the value is accumulated in each execution of a unit game, and when the accumulative amount reaches a predetermined amount, a prize is awarded to a player. When the prize is awarded to the player, the accumulative amount is reset, and accordingly, another accumulation of each execution of a unit game is newly started.

The accumulative amount dealt as above is managed by a gaming machine. Accordingly, in case the player leaves a gaming machine, the current accumulative amount has to be passed over to another player who takes up the play in the gaming machine.

SUMMARY

Then, the present disclosure was made in view of the aforementioned respects, and an object thereof is to provide an unprecedented novel gaming machine and a gaming system by being characterized with managing an accumulative amount dealt at the insurance function with respect to each player.

To achieve the object of the present disclosure, there is provided a gaming machine comprising: a bet switch which is employed by a player so as to bet a gaming value with respect to a unit game; an input device which is employed by a player so as to perform a first operation or a second operation; a storage device in which personal identification information and number of saved games are stored connectedly; and a processor which is programmed so as to conduct each processing from the processing of (1) below to the processing of (3-2) below, (1) if a gaming value is bet through the bet switch: (1-1) triggered by a start of the unit game: (1-1-1) making the bet switch invalid; (1-2) if a player wins a prize at the started unit game: (1-2-1) awarding a gaming value corresponding to the prize to the player; (1-3) each time the unit game starts: (1-3-1) incrementing a variable by one of a predetermined numerical value and a randomly determined numerical value; and (1-3-2) if the incremented variable is equal to a predetermined number: (1-3-2-1) awarding a special gaming value to the player; and (1-3-2-2) resetting the variable; and (1-4) triggered by an ending of the started unit game: (1-4-1) making the bet switch valid so as to accept a gaming value bet by the player with respect to a unit game which starts next; (2) if it is determined that personal identification information is input by the first operation through the input device: (2-1) reading the number of saved games being stored in connection with the personal identification information to be determined from the storage device; and (2-2) substituting the number of saved games which is read for the variable; and (3) if it is determined that the second operation of the input device is performed: (3-1) storing as the number of saved games the variable in connection with personal identification information in the storage device; and (3-2) resetting the variable stored as the number of saved games.

Furthermore, according to another aspect, there is provided a gaming system including a plurality of gaming machines and a server, the plurality of gaming machines comprising: a bet switch which is employed by a player so as to bet a gaming value with respect to a unit game; an input device which is employed by a player so as to perform a first operation or a second operation; and a first processor which is programmed so as to conduct each processing from the processing of (1) below to the processing of (1-4-1) below, (1) if a gaming value is bet through the bet switch: (1-1) triggered by a start of the unit game: (1-1-1) making the bet switch invalid; (1-2) if a player wins a prize at the started unit game: (1-2-1) awarding a gaming value corresponding to the prize to the player; (1-3) each time the unit game starts: (1-3-1) incrementing a variable by one of a predetermined numerical value and a randomly determined numerical value; and (1-3-2) if the incremented variable is equal to a predetermined number: (1-3-2-1) awarding a special gaming value to the player; and (1-3-2-2) resetting the variable; and (1-4) triggered by an ending of the started unit game: and (1-4-1) making the bet switch valid so as to accept a gaming value bet by the player with respect to a unit game which starts next, the server comprising: a storage device in which personal identification information and number of saved games are stored connectedly; and a second processor which is programmed so as to conduct each processing from the processing of (2) below to the processing of (3-2) below, (2) if it is determined that personal identification information is input by the first operation through the input device at any one of the plurality of gaming machines: (2-1) reading the number of saved games being stored in connection with the personal identification information to be determined from the storage device; and (2-2) controlling the gaming machine to be determined so as to substitute the number of saved games which is read for the variable; and (3) if it is determined that the second operation of the input device is performed at the gaming machine to be determined: (3-1) storing as the number of saved games the variable of the gaming machine to be determined in connection with personal identification information in the storage device; and (3-2) controlling the gaming machine to be determined so as to reset the variable.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a view showing the characteristics of a gaming system according to the present embodiment;

FIG. 2 is a system block diagram showing the gaming system;

FIG. 3 is an external perspective view of each gaming machine which is provided in the gaming system;

FIG. 4 is a schematic view schematically showing symbol columns drawn on reel band of each video reel which is provided in each gaming machine;

FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing an internal configuration of each gaming machines;

FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing an internal configuration of a sub control board which is provided in each gaming machine;

FIG. 7 is a payout table showing winning combinations and payout amounts thereof when a slot game is conducted by using each video reel;

FIG. 8 is a view showing one example of images to be displayed on a liquid crystal panel which is provided in each gaming machine;

FIG. 9 is a view showing one example of images to be displayed on the liquid crystal panel;

FIG. 10 is a view showing one example of images to be displayed on the liquid crystal panel;

FIG. 11 is a view showing one example of images to be displayed on the liquid crystal panel;

FIG. 12 is a view showing one example of images to be displayed on the liquid crystal panel;

FIG. 13 is a view showing one example of an information table retained in a server which is provided in the gaming system;

FIG. 14 is a view showing one example of an information table retained in the server;

FIG. 15 is a flowchart of a main control program;

FIG. 16 is a flowchart of a main game processing program;

FIG. 17 is a flowchart of an insurance reserve processing program;

FIG. 18 is a flowchart of an insurance processing program;

FIG. 19 is a flowchart of a control program conducted between each gaming machine and the server;

FIG. 20 is a flowchart of a first operation acceptance processing program;

FIG. 21 is a flowchart of a first operation processing program;

FIG. 22 is a flowchart of a second operation processing program;

FIG. 23 is a flowchart of a control program conducted in each gaming machine;

FIG. 24 is a flowchart of a first operation acceptance processing program;

FIG. 25 is a flowchart of a first operation processing program;

FIG. 26 is a flowchart of a second operation processing program;

FIG. 27 is a flowchart of a control program conducted in each gaming machine;

FIG. 28 is a view showing one example of an information table retained in the server; and

FIG. 29 is a flowchart of a main control program.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

1. Outline of the Present Disclosure

Hereinafter, one embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In a gaming system according to the present embodiment, a plurality of gaming machines and a server are connected to a network. FIG. 1 is a view showing the characteristics of the gaming system according to the present embodiment. A liquid crystal panel 5B as shown in FIG. 1 is provided in each of the gaming machines. A touch panel 101 is provided in a front surface of the liquid crystal panel 5B.

Here, it is assumed that a unit game of a slot game is conducted repeatedly in each of the gaming machines. In the slot game, as shown on the liquid crystal panel 5B shown on the left side in the upper stage of FIG. 1, the liquid crystal panel 5B is divided into a screen H1 and a screen H2. On the screen H2 of the liquid crystal panel 5B, symbols drawn on a reel band of each video reel R1, R2 and R3 are displayed on each of display windows W1, W2, and W3 and one pay line L, which horizontally crosses the display windows W1, W2, and W3, is displayed. Further, in the screen H2 of the liquid crystal panel 5B, a bet amount display portion 7, a credit amount display portion 8 and a payout amount display portion 9 are provided.

Furthermore, an insurance amount display portion 501 is provided in the screen H2 of the liquid crystal panel 5B. The insurance amount display portion 501 displays an insurance amount. The insurance amount display portion 501 displays an insurance bet activation display portion 502. The insurance bet activation display portion 502 lights up when an insurance bet has been set. Once a unit game of the slot game is started while the insurance bet activation display portion 502 is lit up, the insurance amount displayed on the display amount display portion 501 is incremented.

Alternatively, a password entering display portion 503 and a password setting display portion 504 are provided in the screen H1 of the liquid crystal panel 5B. Symbols “*” are displayed in the password entering display portion 503 when a player is entering a password. Each time a player enters one symbol for a password, one symbol “*” is added in this display. Symbols “*” are displayed in the password setting display portion 504 when a player is setting a password. Each time a player sets one symbol for a password, one symbol “*” is added in this display. Here, it is assumed that a player has set a password. In this case, symbols “*” are displayed in the password setting display portion 504, as shown on the liquid crystal panel 5B shown on the left side in the middle stage of FIG. 1.

Once the player has finished the password setting operation, the insurance amount displayed on the insurance amount display portion 501 is associated with the setting password and is retained in the server. Further, as shown on the liquid crystal panel 5B shown on the left side in the lower stage of FIG. 1, symbols are erased from the password setting display portion 504, resetting the insurance amount of the insurance amount display portion 501 to “0”.

Next, it is assumed that the player steps away from the gaming machine and that then the same player resumes a game at the same gaming machine or a separate gaming machine. The liquid crystal panel 5B in the gaming machine at which the player resumes a game becomes as shown at the right side in the upper stage of FIG. 1.

When the player enters a password to resume a game, symbols “*” are displayed in the password entering display portion 503 as shown on the liquid crystal panel 5B shown on the right side in the middle stage of FIG. 1.

Once the player has finished the password entering operation, symbols “*” are erased from the password entering display portion 503 as shown on the liquid crystal panel 5B shown on the right side in the lower stage of FIG. 1. Further, the insurance amount at the time the entered password was set is read out from the server. The insurance amount thus read out is added to the insurance amount which is being displayed on the insurance amount display portion 501.

More specifically, once the player enters the same password as the password which was set in the liquid crystal panel 5B shown on the left side in the middle stage of FIG. 1, the insurance amount at the time of setting such password is displayed on the insurance amount display portion 501 as shown on the liquid crystal panel 5B shown on the right side in the lower stage of FIG. 1

Thus, in a gaming system according to the present embodiment, the insurance amount which is incremented at the time an insurance bet is set is managed for each player, through the password. Accordingly, when a player steps away from the gaming machine, he/she can retain the insurance amount by setting a password. Thereafter, when the player resumes a game at the same machine or a different gaming machine, the insurance amount retained by the player is reproduced when the player enters the same password as the set password.

2. Schematic Structure of the Gaming System

Hereinafter, one embodiment embodying the present disclosure is described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 2 is a system block diagram showing a gaming system 301 according to the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 2, the gaming system 301 according to the present embodiment has a system configuration that a game server 302 and a plurality of gaming machines 1 are connected to a network 401 which enables bidirectional communication.

3. Schematic Structure of Each Gaming Machine

Next, a schematic structure of each gaming machine 1 will be described based on FIG. 3. FIG. 3 is an external perspective view of each gaming machine 1.

As shown in FIG. 3, each gaming machine 1 is of an upright type which is equipped with a game arcade such as casino and includes a cabinet 3 for housing electric or mechanical parts for conducting predetermined types of games. A display unit 4 for displaying information related to a game includes, for example, an upper display unit 4A, a variable display unit 4B at the middle stage of the display unit 4, and an under display unit 4C, which are installed at the front face of the cabinet 3 in a vertically long shape. The upper display unit 4A includes a liquid crystal panel 5A arranged at the upper side of the variable display unit 4B, the liquid crystal panel 5A for displaying an effecting images, an introduction of a game, or an explanation of game rules and the like. The under display unit 4C is arranged at the lower side of the variable display unit 4B and includes a plastic panel 5C on which an image is printed. The plastic panel 5C is lighted up with the backlight of the under display unit 4C.

The variable display unit 4B for displaying a state of a game includes a liquid crystal panel 5B which is fixed at a front door of the cabinet 3. The front face of the liquid crystal panel 5B includes a touch panel 101, with which a player can input various commands. The variable display unit 4B at the middle stage of the cabinet 3 is sloped so that the head of the variable display unit 4B tilts back to thereby allow a player to play a game in a comfortable position.

An operation table 10 extending forward is provided in between the variable display unit 4B at the middle stage and the under display unit 4C, on a front face of the cabinet 3. On the operation table 10, there are arranged operation buttons 11 including a base BET button, an insurance BET button, a game start button, a collect button, a CASHOUT button, alphanumeric buttons and the like as an operation part for inputting instructions concerning a game conducted. The operation table 10 is provided with a coin insertion slot 12 and a bill insertion slot 13. A ticket printer 14 and a card reader 15 are provided in between the operation table 10 and the variable display unit 4B at the middle stage. The lowermost part of the cabinet 3 is provided with a coin tray 16.

As to each gaming machine 1, coins, bills or electronic value information (credit) corresponding to coins and bills are used as gaming media. However, in the present disclosure, types of gaming media are not restricted to the above. For example, medal, token, electronic money, ticket and the like are applicable as gaming media.

There are also arranged light emitting portions 20 on the cabinet 3 of each gaming machine 1 so as to surround a game area including the upper display unit 4A, the variable display unit 4B at the middle stage, the under display unit 4C and the operation table 10.

Each gaming machine 1 is further provided with a topper effect device 28 mounted on the cabinet 3. The topper effect device 28 is of a rectangular board shape and is arranged so as to be substantially parallel with the liquid crystal panel 5A of the upper display unit 4A. The cabinet 3 is further provided with speakers 23 on its both sides.

4. Internal Configuration of Each Gaming Machine

Next, an internal configuration of each gaming machine 1 will be explained by referring to FIG. 5 and FIG. 6. FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing an internal configuration of each gaming machine 1.

As shown in FIG. 5, each gaming machine 1 includes a plurality of components such as a main control board 71 in which a microcomputer 31 is included. The main control board 71 includes the microcomputer 31, a random number generation circuit 35, a sampling circuit 36, a clock pulse generation circuit 37 and a frequency divider 38, and further includes an illumination effect driving circuit 61, a hopper driving circuit 63, a payout completion signal circuit 65 and a printer driving circuit 67.

The microcomputer 31 includes a main CPU 32, a RAM 33 and a ROM 34. The main CPU 32 operates in accordance with the program stored in the ROM 34 and performs input and output to and from the other components via an I/O port 39 to carry out an operation control over the gaming machine 1. The RAM 33 stores data or programs to be used during an operation of the main CPU 32. For example, random numbers which are sampled by the after-mentioned sampling circuit 36 are stored temporarily after a start of the game in the RAM 33. Also, value of each variable described below, code numbers of the respective video reels R1, R2 and R3 and symbol numbers are stored in the RAM 33. The ROM 34 stores programs or static data (a table as shown in FIG. 7 below, for example).

The programs stored in the ROM 34 include game programs and a game system program (hereinafter referred to as the game program and the like). The game programs further include a lottery program to be used while a game is conducted.

The lottery program is a program used to determine the code numbers of the respective video reels R1, R2 and R3 that correspond to each symbol rearranged on a pay line L of a liquid crystal panel 5B. Then, in the lottery program, it is included symbol weighing data corresponding to each of plural kinds of payout rates (for example, 80%, 84%, and 88%). The symbol weighing data are the data indicating correlation between the code number of each video reel R1, R2 and R3 and one or plural random numbers belonging to a predetermined number range (0 to 255), every each of the three video reels R1, R2 and R3. In other words, each of the code numbers of one video reel R1, R2 and R3 is associated with one or more random numbers corresponding to the payout rate. The random numbers are extracted by the lottery program, and symbols specified finally by the random numbers are rearranged on the pay line L of the liquid crystal panel 5B.

Random numbers over a predetermined range are generated by the random number generation circuit 35, which is operated based on the instructions from the main CPU 32. The random numbers are voluntarily extracted from the random numbers generated by the random number generation circuit 35 by the sampling circuit 36, based on the instructions from the main CPU 32, and the extracted random numbers are input to the main CPU 32. The base clock for running the main CPU 32 is generated by the clock pulse generation circuit 37. The signals which are generated by dividing the base clock in a predetermined frequency are input to the main CPU 32 by the frequency divider 38.

Further, a touch panel 101 is connected to the main control board 71. The touch panel 101 is arranged in front of the liquid crystal panel 5B, and specifies the coordinate position of the portion touched by a player. The position on which the player touched and the direction of the movement of the touched portion are determined based on the specified coordinate position information. And the signals corresponding to the determination are input to the main CPU 32 via the I/O port 39.

Furthermore, operation buttons 11 including a base BET button, an insurance BET button, a game start button, a collect button, a CASHOUT button, alphanumeric buttons and the like are connected to the main control board 71. Signals corresponding to depressions of such buttons are inputted to the main CPU 32 via the I/O port 39.

Furthermore, a game communication circuit 102 is connected to the main control board 71. The game communication circuit 102 is a device that converts a signal sent to be sent out by the gaming machine 1 into a signal in a sendable format, according to transmission method of a phone line or a LAN cable, so as to send it to the server 302 or another gaming machine 1. Conversely, the game communication circuit 102 receives a signal sent from the server 302 or another gaming machine 1 to reconvert the signal into a signal in a format readable by the gaming machine 1. The game communication circuit 102 is connected to a game communication circuit 303 of the server 302 or a game communication circuit 102 of another gaming machine 1 via the network 401 which enables bidirectional communication such as the Internet. It is to be noted that the server 302 is provided with a hard disk device 304.

The effect signals which are used to conduct illumination effect are output to the above-mentioned light emitting portion 20 and topper effect device 28 by the illumination effect driving circuit 61. And the topper effect device 28 is serially connected to the illumination effect driving circuit 61 via light emitting portions 20.

A hopper 64 is driven by the hopper driving circuit 63 based on the control of main CPU 32. The hopper 64 executes the payout of coins, and coins are paid out from a coin tray 16. The data of the number of coins are input from a connected coin detecting portion 66 by the payout completion signal circuit 65. When the number of coins becomes a predetermined number, the signal indicating the completion of the coins is input to the main CPU 32. The number of the coins paid out from the hopper 64 is calculated by the coin detecting portion 66, and the data of the number calculated are input to the payout completion signal circuit 65. A ticket printer 14 is driven by the printer driving circuit 67 based on the control of main CPU 32.

Furthermore, a card reader 15 is connected to the main control board 71. The card reader 15 reads out information stored in an IC card 103 and inputs the read information to the main CPU 32. A player can now load an IC card 103 in the card reader 15. Then, a player can remove the IC card 103 loaded in the card reader 15.

Further, a sub control board 72 is connected to the main control board 71. A liquid crystal panel 5A, the liquid crystal panel 5B and speakers 23 are connected to the sub control board 72.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing an internal configuration of the sub control board 72. As shown in FIG. 6, the sub control board 72 performs display control of the liquid crystal panel 5A and the liquid crystal panel 5B and output control of sound from the speakers 23, by inputting commands from the main control board 71. The sub control board 72 is arranged on a circuit board which is different from a circuit board constituting the main control board 71. The sub control board 72 is mainly consisted of a microcomputer (hereinafter referred to as “sub microcomputer”) 73 and includes a sound source IC 78 for controlling sound outputted from the speakers 23, a power amplifier 79 as an amplifier, and an image control circuit 81 working as display control means for the liquid crystal panels 5A and 5B.

The sub microcomputer 73 includes a sub CPU 74 performing control operation in accordance with a control command sent from the main control board 71, a program ROM 75 as memory means, a work RAM 76, and I/O ports 77 and 80. The sub control board 72 is not provided with a clock pulse generation circuit, a frequency divider, a random number generation circuit and a sampling circuit. However, the sub control board 72 is configured to perform random number sampling in the operation program of the sub CPU 74. The program ROM 75 stores a control program conducted on the sub CPU 74. The work RAM 76 is provided as temporal memory means when conducting the above control program on the sub CPU 74.

The image control circuit 81 includes an image control CPU 82, an image control work RAM 83, an image control program ROM 84, an IN port 85, an image ROM 86, a video RAM 87, and an image control IC 88. Based on the parameter set by the sub microcomputer 73, the image control CPU 82 determines images to be displayed on the liquid crystal panels 5A and 5B, in accordance with the image control program stored in the image control program ROM 84. Further, the image control circuit 81 conducts display control of the liquid crystal panels 5B based on a control signal from the main CPU 32.

The image control program ROM 84 stores an image control program concerning display of the liquid crystal panels 5A and 5B and various selection tables. The image control work RAM 83 is provided as temporal memory means when conducting an image control program on the image control CPU 82. The image control IC 88 forms images based on the determination by the image control CPU 82 to output on the liquid crystal panels 5A and 5B.

The image ROM 86 stores dot data for forming an image.

5. Display of the Liquid Crystal Panel

Here will be explained an image to be displayed on a liquid crystal panel 5B. FIGS. 8 through 12 are the views showing one example of images to be displayed on the liquid crystal panel 5B. As shown in FIGS. 8 through 12, the liquid crystal panel 5B is divided into the screen H1 above and the screen H2 above.

The screen H2 of the liquid crystal panel 5B displays an image representing the state of the game being conducted on the gaming machine 1. FIGS. 8 through 12 show images representing the conduct state of a video slot game.

During a slot game, as shown in FIGS. 8 through 12, symbols drawn on a reel band of each video reel R1, R2 and R3 are displayed on each of display windows W1, W2, and W3 in the screen H2 of the liquid crystal panel 5B. FIGS. 8, 11 and 12 show a state in which the symbols drawn on the reel band of each video reel R1, R2 and R3 is arranged or rearranged on each symbol display W1, W2 and W3 of the liquid crystal panel 5B. FIGS. 9 and 10 show a state in which the symbols drawn on the reel band of each video reel R1, R2 and R3 is displayed by a scrolling manner in each symbol display W1, W2 and W3 of the liquid crystal panel 5B. Incidentally, on the reel band of each video reel R1, R2 and R3, a symbol column constructed from twenty-two symbols is drawn respectively (refer to FIG. 4 below).

Further, a bet amount display portion 7 above, a credit amount display portion 8 above and a payout amount display portion 9 are arranged on the screen H2 of the liquid crystal panel 5B. On the bet amount display portion 7, a base bet amount which is indicated by a player is displayed in a unit game of a slot game. On the credit amount display portion 8, a credit amount which is owned by a player at the moment is displayed. On the payout amount display portion 9, a payout amount awarded in a unit game of a slot game to a player is displayed.

Accordingly, in the screen H2 of the liquid crystal panel 5B during a slot game, symbols of respective video reels R1, R2, and R3 are arranged three by three on each display window W1, W2, and W3. Furthermore, in the liquid crystal panel 5B during a slot game, as shown in FIGS. 8 through 12, one pay line L, which horizontally crosses each display window W1, W2, and W3, is displayed. The pay line L is used to specify a combination of symbols.

Incidentally, an image to be displayed on the screen H2 of the liquid crystal panel 5B is not restricted to an image concerning a conduct state of a video slot game. That is, the screen H2 of the liquid crystal panel 5B displays an image concerning the state of various games that can be conducted on the gaming machine 1. Other than slot games, games that can be conducted on the gaming machine 1 include card games, roulette games, dice games and mahjong games, for example.

Furthermore, an insurance amount display portion 501 above is provided in the screen H2 of the liquid crystal panel 5B. The insurance amount display portion 501 displays an insurance amount. The insurance amount display portion 501 displays an insurance bet activation display portion 502 above. The insurance bet activation display portion 502 lights up when an insurance bet has been set (refer to FIG. 10 and FIG. 11). Once a unit game of a slot game is started while the insurance bet activation display portion 502 is lit up, the insurance amount displayed on the display amount display portion 501 is incremented.

Alternatively, a password entering display portion 503 above and a password setting display portion 504 above are provided in the screen H1 of the liquid crystal panel 5B. Symbols “*” are displayed in the password entering display portion 503 when a player is entering a password (refer to FIG. 1 above). Each time a player enters one symbol for a password, one symbol “*” is added in this display (refer to FIG. 1 above). Symbols are displayed in the password setting display portion 504 when a player is setting a password. Each time a player sets one symbol for a password, one symbol “*” is added in this display (refer to FIG. 1 above).

6. Outline of Symbols

Subsequently, based on FIG. 4, symbols drawn on reel band of each video reel R1, R2 and R3 will be explained. These symbols are rearranged on each display window W1, W2 and W3 of a liquid crystal panel 5B during a slot game by being displayed by a scrolling manner and a stopped manner. FIG. 4 is a schematic view schematically showing symbol columns drawn on the reel band of each video reel R1, R2 and R3.

On the reel band of each video reel R1, R2 and R3, twenty-two symbols are drawn respectively. Each symbol column is constructed from the symbols including “FRANKENSTEIN”, “BLUE7”, “BELL”, “APPLE”, “CHERRY”, “STRAWBERRY”, “PLUM” and “ORANGE”. And the symbols of the predetermined types are arranged in a predetermined sequence.

If three of any of the following symbols: “FRANKENSTEIN”, “BLUE7”, “BELL”, “APPLE”, “CHERRY”, “STRAWBERRY”, “PLUM” and “ORANGE” have been rearranged on a pay line L in a liquid crystal panel 5B, a payout amount obtained by multiplying a predetermined payout amount with a base bet amount is awarded to a player (refer to FIG. 7 below). If one or two of symbols “CHERRY” or “ORANGE” have been rearranged on a pay line L in a liquid crystal panel 5B, a payout amount obtained by multiplying a predetermined payout amount with a base bet amount is awarded to a player in accordance with the number of the rearranged symbols (refer to FIG. 7 below).

Incidentally, in each symbol column shown in FIG. 4, a symbol number is allocated with respect to each symbol constituting these symbol columns, starting from the top.

7. Outline of a Slot Game

Next, winning combinations and payout amounts corresponding to the winning combinations will be explained with reference to FIG. 7, wherein the winning combinations are symbol combinations when a slot game is conducted by using each video reel R1, R2 and R3 in each gaming machine 1. FIG. 7 is a payout table in which the winning combinations and the payout amounts corresponding to the winning combinations are shown when a slot game is conducted by using each video reel R1, R2 and R3 in each gaming machine 1.

Here, the payout amounts shown in FIG. 7 indicate payout amounts when a base bet amount is “1” in a slot game. Therefore, when a base bet amount is “1”, the payout amount shown in FIG. 7 is awarded, and when a base bet amount is more than “2”, a payout amount obtained by multiplying the payout amount shown in FIG. 7 with the base bet amount is awarded.

Thereby, when three symbols “FRANKENSTEIN” are rearranged on a pay line L of a liquid crystal panel 5B, a payout amount obtained by multiplying “100” with a base bet amount is awarded. When three symbols “BLUE 7” are rearranged on a pay line L of a liquid crystal panel 5B, a payout amount obtained by multiplying “10” with a base bet amount is awarded. When three symbols “BELL” are rearranged on a pay line L of a liquid crystal panel 5B, a payout amount obtained by multiplying “8” with a base bet amount is awarded. Payout amounts corresponding to each winning combination shown in FIG. 7 are set as the same in the above.

However, when a symbol combination constructed from the symbols rearranged on a pay line L of a liquid crystal panel 5B is not any of the winning combinations shown in FIG. 7, the symbol combination is not a winning combination. Therefore, no payout amount may be awarded.

As mentioned below, in each gaming machine 1, a unit game of a slot game is conducted.

In other words, in a unit of a slot game, a game is conducted by rearranging a specific symbol combination by using each video reel R1, R2 and R3 on a pay line L in a screen H2 of a liquid crystal panel 5B. In a slot game, firstly, a part of symbol column (three symbols) drawn on reel band of each video reel R1, R2 and R3 shown in FIG. 4, is arranged on each display window W1, W2 and W3 of a liquid crystal panel 5B (refer to FIGS. 8, 11 and 12). Here, after a player sets a base bet amount by depressing a base BET button from operation buttons 11, if the player depresses a game start button from the operation buttons 11, each video reel R1, R2 and R3 is displayed by a scrolling manner, the symbol column drawn on the reel band of each video reel R1, R2 and R3 shown in FIG. 4, is scrolled from up to down and displayed on each display window W1, W2 and W3 in the screen H2 of the liquid crystal panel 5B (refer to FIG. 9 and FIG. 10).

After a predetermined time, each video reel R1, R2 and R3 automatically is displayed by a stopped manner, a part of the symbol column (three symbols) drawn on the reel band of each video reel R1, R2 and R3 shown in FIG. 4, is rearranged on each display window W1, W2 and W3 of the liquid crystal panel 5B (refer to FIGS. 8, 11 and 12). On the other hand, each winning combination based on each symbol combination is determined beforehand (refer to FIG. 7). When a symbol combination constructed from the three symbols rearranged on the pay line L in the screen H2 of the liquid crystal panel 5B, realizes a winning combination, a payout amount obtained by multiplying a payout amount corresponding to the realized winning combination with the base bet amount is awarded to the player.

8. Schematic Description of Insurance Functions

Next, the insurance functions provided in each gaming machine 1 will be described based on FIGS. 10 through 12. In each gaming machine 1, a player depresses a base BET button from operation buttons 11 to set a base bet amount. Further, the player depresses an insurance BET button from the operation buttons 11 to set an insurance bet amount. Then, the player depresses the game start button from the operation buttons 11 to set the insurance bet. Once the insurance bet is set, an insurance bet activation display portion 502 in a screen H2 of a liquid crystal panel 5B lights up as shown in FIG. 10. The insurance function works once a unit game of a slot game is started while the insurance bet activation display portion 502 is lit up.

Once the insurance function works, the symbol column drawn on reel band of each video reel R1, R2 and R3 shown in FIG. 4, is scrolled from up to down and displayed on each display window W1, W2 and W3 in the screen H2 of the liquid crystal panel 5B.

When a unit game of a slot game is started as described hereinbefore, an insurance amount displayed in an insurance amount display portion 501 is incremented. Specifically, the insurance amount which is being displayed on the insurance amount display portion 501 is incremented by “1”. It should be noted that the increment value is not limited to “1”. For instance, a predetermined value other than “1” or a value obtained by random number sampling can be given as an increment value.

Incidentally, once a unit game of a slot game is finished, the light in the insurance bet activation display portion 502 is turned off in the screen H2 of the liquid crystal panel 5B, suspending the insurance function.

With respect to the insurance function, once the insurance amount displayed on the insurance amount display portion 501 reaches the predetermined value, a special payout amount is awarded to the player. The special payout amount awarded to the player is displayed on a payout amount display portion 9 in the screen H2 of the liquid crystal panel 5B. The special payout amount as awarded to the player is “200”, as set in advance.

However, the special payout amount is not limited to “200”. For instance, a predetermined value other than “200” and a value obtained by conducting random number sampling can be given as a special payout amount. The insurance bet amount set using the insurance BET button from the operation buttons 11 is accumulated, and this accumulated value may be handled as a special payout amount.

The special payout amount as displayed on the payout amount display portion 9 is added to a credit amount which is currently displayed on a credit amount display portion 8 of the screen H2 in the liquid crystal panel 5B, as shown in FIG. 11 and FIG. 12. At this time, “0” is displayed on the payout amount display portion 9. The insurance amount which is being displayed on the insurance amount display portion 501 becomes “0”. Further, the light in the insurance activation display portion 502 on the screen H2 of the liquid crystal panel 5B is turned off, suspending the insurance function.

9. Management of Insurance Amount

Next, management of insurance amounts in the gaming system 301 according to the present embodiment will be explained based on FIG. 1 and FIG. 13 and FIG. 14. FIG. 13 and FIG. 14 show examples of information tables 601 and 602 retained in the server 302. In the server 302, the respective information tables 601 and 602 are stored in the hard disk device 304.

In the gaming system 301 according to the present embodiment, the insurance amount which is being displayed on the insurance amount display portion 501 in each gaming machine 1 can be managed for each player.

Thus, the players can set or enter a password while a unit game of a slot game is repeated in each gaming machine 1, as shown in each liquid crystal panel 5B of FIG. 1.

A player can perform a password setting operation by touching a password setting display portion 504 in a screen H1 of a liquid crystal panel 5B while a unit game of a slot game is being repeated. At this time, the player sets a password by touching alphanumeric buttons from an operation buttons 11. While the player is setting a password, symbols “*” are being displayed on the password setting display portion 504, as shown on the liquid crystal panel 5B shown on the left side in the middle stage of FIG. 1. Here, one symbol “*” is added in this display each time the player sets one symbol for the password.

Further, the player can end the password setting operation by touching once again the password setting display portion 504 in the screen H1 of the liquid crystal panel 5B. After the password setting operation is ended, the insurance amount of the insurance amount display portion 501 is associated with the set password and is retained in the server 302.

Alternatively, in the server 302, the insurance amount of the insurance amount display portion 501 is associated with the set password and is retained in the information table 601 as shown in FIG. 13. In the information table 601, the set password is retained in the “PASSWORD” column, while the insurance amount of the insurance amount display portion 501 is retained in the “SAVED NUMBER OF GAMES” column. Further, symbols “*” displayed on the password setting display portion 504 are erased, as shown on the liquid crystal panel 5B shown on the left side in the lower stage of FIG. 1. The insurance amount of the insurance amount display portion 501 is reset to “0”.

The player may leave the gaming machine 1 and later may resume a game at the same gaming machine 1 or a different gaming machine 1. In this case, when the player resumes a game, a liquid crystal panel 5B at that gaming machine 1 becomes as shown at the right side in the upper stage of FIG. 1.

The player can perform a password entering operation by touching a password entering display portion 503 in a screen H1 of the liquid crystal panel 5B while a unit game of a slot game is being repeated. At this time, the player enters a password by depressing the alphanumeric buttons from operation buttons 11.

While the player is entering a password, symbols “*” are being displayed on the password entering display portion 503, as shown on the liquid crystal panel 5B shown on the right side in the middle stage of FIG. 1. Here, one symbol “*” is added to this display each time the player inputs one symbol for the password.

Further, the player can end the password entering operation by touching once again the password entering display portion 503 in the screen H1 of the liquid crystal panel 5B. After the password entering operation is ended, symbols “*” displayed on the password entering display portion 503 are erased, as shown on the liquid crystal panel 5B shown on the right side in the lower stage of FIG. 1. Furthermore, the insurance amount at the time the password was set is read out from the information table 601 in server 302.

In this readout, a password which is the same as the password which was entered is identified in the “PASSWORD” column of the information table 601. The insurance amount associated with the identified password and retained in the “SAVED NUMBER OF GAMES” column of the information table 601 is read out. Thereafter, the insurance amount associated with the identified password and retained in the “SAVED NUMBER OF GAMES” column of the information table 601 is changed to “0”. The insurance amount thus read out is displayed on an insurance amount display portion 501 in the screen H1 of the liquid crystal panel 5B.

Specifically, once the player enters the same password as the password set in the liquid crystal panel 5B shown on the left side in the middle stage of FIG. 1, the insurance amount at the time of setting is displayed once again on the insurance amount display portion 501.

Thus, in the gaming system 301 according to the present embodiment, an insurance amount which is incremented when an insurance bet is set is managed for each player through a password. Accordingly, a player can retain an insurance amount when he/she leaves a gaming machine 1 by setting a password. Then, when the player resumes a game at the same gaming machine 1 or a different gaming machine 1, the insurance amount retained by the player is reproduced when a password which is the same as the set password is entered.

Incidentally, in each gaming machine 1, once a password entering operation is ended, the password entering operation cannot be performed again until a password setting operation is ended. In the gaming system 301 according to the present embodiment, the possibility of entering a password is managed at each gaming machine 1.

More specifically, the possibility of entering a password is managed at each gaming machine 1, based on the information table 602 as shown in FIG. 14. In the information table 602 as shown in FIG. 14, identification information for the gaming machines 1 is retained in the “GAMING MACHINE” column. Information showing whether or not a password can be entered at a gaming machine 1 is associated with the identification information and is retained in the “STATUS” column. Here, value “1” in the “STATUS” column shows a first status. The first status shows a state wherein password entering is enabled. Here, value “2” in the “STATUS” column shows a second status. The second status shows a state wherein password entering is disabled.

In the information table 602, identification information of a gaming machine 1 is retained in the “GAMING MACHINE” column with respect to all gaming machines 1 connected to the server 302. Information showing whether or not a password can be entered at the gaming machine 1 is associated with the identification information and is retained in the respective “STATUS” columns. In a default state, value “1” is retained in the “STATUS” column.

Thus, in the gaming system 301 according to the present embodiment, if there is a gaming machine 1 at which a password was entered, that gaming machine 1 is identified through the “GAMING MACHINE” column of the information table 602.

Then, value “1” or value “2” associated with the identified gaming machine 1 and retained in the “STATUS” column is read out from the information table 602.

If value “1” is read out from the “STATUS” column of the information table 602, this value “1” is changed to value “2”. Next, as described above, an insurance amount is read out from the information table 601 through the password entered at that gaming machine 1. Alternatively, when value “2” is read out from the “STATUS” column of the information table 602, this value “2” is maintained. At this time, an insurance amount is not read out from the information table 601.

Alternatively, if there is a gaming machine 1 at which a password was set, that gaming machine 1 is identified through the “GAMING MACHINE” column of the information table 602. If value “2” is associated with the identified gaming machine 1 and is retained in the “STATUS” column of the information table 602, this value “2” is changed to value “1”.

In the gaming system 301 according to the present embodiment, the password setting operation and the password entering operation in each gaming machine 1 are not limited to depressing alphanumeric buttons from operation buttons 11. For instance, alphanumeric keys are displayed on a liquid crystal panel 5B once a player has touched a password entering display portion 503 and a password setting display portion 504 in a screen H1 of the liquid crystal panel 5B. The player may also perform the password setting operation and the password entering operation by touching any of the alphanumeric keys through a touch panel 101.

10. Operation in Each Gaming Machine

Subsequently, a main control program conducted in each gaming machine 1 will be explained in detail with reference to the drawings. FIG. 15 is a flowchart of the main control program. Incidentally, each program shown in the flowchart of FIG. 15 is stored in a ROM 34 or a RAM 33 of each gaming machine 1, and is conducted by a main CPU 32.

First, when a power switch is pressed, a microcomputer 31 is started to operate, an initial setting processing is conducted by the microcomputer 31 in step (abbreviated as “S”) 1. The initial setting processing, a BIOS stored in a ROM 34 is conducted by a main CPU 32. The compressed data included in the BIOS is expanded to a RAM 33, and when the BIOS expansion to the RAM 33 is conducted, a diagnosing and initialization processing of various peripheral devices are conducted. Also, the game programs and the like are written from the ROM 34 to the RAM 33 by the main CPU 32, so as to obtain the payout rate setting data and country ID information. Also, during the conduct of the initial setting process, a verification processing to each program is conducted.

And in S2, the main CPU 32 reads out the game programs and the like from the RAM 33, and conducts the programs in sequence so as to conduct a main game processing. The game is conducted in each gaming machine 1 by conducting the main game processing. And the main game processing is repeated in the gaming machine 1 when the power is supplied to the gaming machine 1.

Next, sub process of the main game processing in S2 will be explained based on FIG. 16. FIG. 16 is a flowchart of the main game processing program in each gaming machine 1.

First, as shown in FIG. 16, a start acceptance processing is conducted by the main CPU 32 in S11. At this time, in the start acceptance processing, the insertion of the coins or the bet operation using a base BET button or an insurance BET button from operation buttons 11 is conducted by a player. Then, the processing is sifted to S12.

In S12, the main CPU 32 conducts an insurance reserve processing. FIG. 17 is a flowchart of the insurance reserve processing program.

First, as shown in FIG. 17, the main CPU 32 determines whether or not the insurance BET button from the operation buttons 11 has been depressed in S31. This determination is conducted based on a signal inputted to the main CPU 32 in response to depressing the operation buttons 11. At this point, if the insurance BET button from the operation buttons 11 has been not depressed (S31: NO), the processing is returned to the main game processing program in FIG. 16.

In contrast, if the insurance BET button from the operation buttons 11 has been depressed (S31: YES), the processing is sifted to S32. In S32, the main CPU 32 sets an insurance flag. The main CPU 32 turns on an insurance bet activation display portion 502 in a screen H2 of a liquid crystal panel 5B by transmitting a control signal to a sub control board 72.

Thereafter, including the case when the insurance BET button from the operation buttons 11 has been not depressed (S31: NO), the processing is returned to the main game processing program in FIG. 16. Returns to the main game processing program in FIG. 16, the main CPU 32 determines whether or not a game start button from the operation buttons 11 has been depressed in S13. For instance, if a slot game is conducted in the gaming machine 1, the game start button corresponds to a spin button. This determination is conducted based on a signal inputted to the main CPU 32 in response to depressing the operation buttons 11. At this point, if the game start button from the operation buttons 11 has been not depressed (S13: NO), the processing is returned to the start acceptance processing (S11) again. Thereby, it is possible to change a bet amount and the like. In contrast, if the game start button from the operation buttons 11 has been depressed (S13: YES), a base bet amount or an insurance bet amount set based on the above bet operation is stored in the RAM 33 as bet information by the main CPU 32. Then, the processing is sifted to S14.

In S14, the main CPU 32 conducts a bet input invalidation processing. Once this processing is conducted, the main CPU 32 ignores a signal which is inputted in response to depressing the base BET button or insurance BET button from the operation buttons 11. Then, the processing is sifted to S15.

In S15, the main CPU 32 conducts an insurance payout specification processing. In this processing, the main CPU 32 specifies a special payout amount. Here, the main CPU 32 always specifies the predetermined value “200” as the special payout amount. Thereafter, the processing is sifted to S16.

The special payout amount is not limited to the value “200”. The main CPU 32 may specify a predetermined value other than “200” and the value obtained by random number sampling as a special payout amount. The main CPU 32 accumulates the insurance bet amount in the RAM 33 and may specify the accumulated value as a special payout amount.

When the processing is sifted to S16, a base game lottery processing is conducted by the main CPU 32. Concretely, when the lottery program included in the game programs is conducted by the main CPU 32, the random number corresponding to each video reel R1, R2 and R3 respectively is selected from a range of “0” to “255”. And with reference to the symbol weighing data corresponding to the payout rate setting data, based on the selected three random numbers, the code numbers of the respective video reels R1, R2 and R3 are determined. The determined code numbers of the respective video reels R1, R2 and R3 are stored in the RAM 33 by the main CPU 32, and the processing is sifted to S17.

Here, the code numbers of the respective video reels R1, R2 and R3 are associated with the symbol numbers (symbol numbers shown in FIG. 4) of symbols which are rearranged on a pay line L in the liquid crystal panel 5B. The main CPU 32 determines a symbol combination in a unit game by determining code numbers of the respective video reels R1, R2 and R3. For instance, if symbol numbers of the respective video reels R1, R2 and R3 are set to “21”, “21” and “21” by determining code numbers of the respective video reels R1, R2 and R3 by the main CPU 32, the main CPU 32 decides for a symbol combination made up of three symbols “FRANKENSTEIN” (refer to FIG. 4), as a symbol combination in a unit game. Thus, lottery for a symbol combination in a unit game of a slot game is conducted by determining code numbers of the respective video reels R1, R2 and R3. Then, the processing is sifted to S17.

In S17, the main CPU 32 executes a symbol display control processing. Concretely, first, a reel rotation processing is conducted by the main CPU 32. In other words, by transmitting a control signal to the sub control board 72, the main CPU 32 starts a scrolling display of each video reel R1, R2 and R3. After that, an effect mode (a display mode of images on the liquid crystal panel 5B and a sound output mode from speakers 23) for each unit game is determined by the main CPU 32, and the sub control board 72 is ordered to start the effect in a predetermined effect pattern. Then, when a predetermined timing to stop displaying each video reel R1, R2 and R3 in scrolling manner comes, a reel stop processing is conducted by the main CPU 32. In other words, by transmitting a control signal to the sub control board 72, the main CPU 32 stops scrolling of each video reel R1, R2 and R3 based on the code number stored in the RAM 33. With this, a symbol combination which determined in S16 above is rearranged on the pay line L in the liquid crystal panel 5B. Then, the processing is sifted to S18.

In S18, the main CPU 32 determines whether or not there is a winning combination. This determination is made based on the code numbers of the respective video reels R1, R2 and R3 that were stored in the RAM 33. At this point, if there is not a winning combination (S18: NO), the processing is sifted to S22 described below. In contrast, if there is a winning combination (S18: YES), the processing is sifted to S19.

Also, in S18, the main CPU 32 conducts a payout amount display processing. More specifically, first, the main CPU 32 computes an amount obtained by multiplying the payout amount in accordance with the winning combination rearranged on the pay line L in the liquid crystal panel 5B, by the base bet amount. This computation is made based on the bet information stored in the RAM 33 and the payout table in FIG. 7, the computed amount is stored in the RAM 33 as payout information. Then, the main CPU 32 displays the payout information (computed amount) stored in the RAM 33 on a payout amount display portion 9 in the screen H2 of the liquid crystal panel 5B, by transmitting a control signal to the sub control board 72.

In S19, the main CPU 32 determines whether or not a bonus game trigger is realized. More specifically, if three symbols “FRANKENSTEIN” are rearranged on the pay line L in the liquid crystal panel 5B, it is determined that the bonus game trigger is realized. Incidentally, this determination as well is conducted based on the code numbers of the respective video reels R1, R2 and R3 stored in the RAM 33. At this point, if the bonus game trigger is realized (S19: YES), the main CPU 32 conducts a bonus game processing in S20.

Incidentally, in the bonus game processing, a free game is conducted wherein a predetermined number of unit games of a slot game are automatically repeated. In the free game, the processing in S41 of FIG. 18 described below may be conducted each time a unit game is conducted in a slot game. A detailed description of the free game is hereby omitted.

After that, the main CPU 32 conducts a payout processing in S21, including the case when the bonus game trigger is not realized (S19: NO). In the payout processing, the payout amount obtained by the player in a slot game and a bonus game (a free game), is awarded to the player respectively, based on the payout information stored in the RAM 33.

When the payout is conducted, a credit amount which is stored in the RAM 33 as the payout information (a payout amount obtained by the player in a base game and a free game respectively) is added to a credit amount stored in the RAM 33 as credit information by the main CPU 32, and the added value is overwritten in the RAM 33 as the credit information by the main CPU 32. And then, a control signal is transmitted to the sub control board 72 by the main CPU 32, the credit information stored in the RAM 33 (the added value in S21) is displayed on a credit display portion 8 in the screen H2 of the liquid crystal panel 5B. At the same time, “0” is overwritten to the RAM 33 as the payout information by the main CPU 32, and by transmitting a control signals to the sub control board 72, on the payout amount display portion 9 in the screen H2 of the liquid crystal panel 5B, “0” is displayed.

Incidentally, in the payout processing, the credit amount owned by the player at the moment may be paid out by coins corresponding to the credit amount (one credit equals to one coin) based on the player's depressing the CASHOUT button from the operation buttons 11, or may also be paid out by a ticket with a bar code which is printed by a ticket printer 14.

Thereafter, the processing is sifted to S22, including the case when there is not a winning combination (S18: NO). In S22, the main CPU 32 determines whether or not an insurance status is reached. This determination is conducted based on an insurance flag. If the insurance flag is set, it is determined that the insurance status is reached. If the insurance flag is cleared, it is determined that the insurance status is not reached. At this point, if the insurance status is not reached (S22: NO), the processing is sifted to S25 described below. In contrast, if the insurance status is reached (S22: YES), the processing is sifted to S23.

In S23, the main CPU 32 clears the insurance flag. Thereafter, the processing is sifted to S24.

In S24, the main CPU 32 conducts an insurance processing. FIG. 18 is a flowchart of the insurance processing program.

First, as shown in FIG. 18, the main CPU 32 conducts a variable N increment processing in S41. In this processing, the main CPU 32 increments the variable N by “1”. The main CPU 32 displays the value of the variable N on an insurance amount display portion 501 in the screen H2 of the liquid crystal panel 5B, by transmitting a control signal to the sub control board 72. Specifically, the value of the variable N corresponds to an insurance amount. Thereafter, the processing is sifted to S42.

Incidentally, the increment value used in S41 is not limited to “1”. The main CPU 32 may use a predetermined value other than value “1” and a value obtained by random sampling, for instance, as the increment value in S41.

In S42, the main CPU 32 determines whether or not the variable N is a predetermined value. Here, this predetermined value is “500”. At this point, if the variable N is not the predetermined value (S42: NO), the processing is returned to the main game processing program in FIG. 16. In contrast, if the variable N is the predetermined value (S42: YES), the processing is sifted to S43.

In S43, the main CPU 32 conducts an insurance payout processing. In this processing, the main CPU 32 displays the special payout amount (“200”) identified in S15 above on the payout amount display portion 9 in the screen H2 of the liquid crystal panel 5B, by transmitting a control signal to the sub control board 72. Thereafter, the processing is sifted to S44.

In S44, the main CPU 32 conducts a variable N reset processing. In this processing, the main CPU 32 substitutes the variable N for value “0”. The main CPU 32 displays the value of the variable N on the insurance amount display portion 501 in the screen H2 of the liquid crystal panel 5B, by transmitting a control signal to the sub control board 72. At the same time, the main CPU 32 turns off the light in the insurance bet activation display portion 502 displayed in the screen H2 of the liquid crystal panel 5B, by transmitting a control signal to the sub control board 72.

Further, in this processing, the main CPU 32 adds the special payout amount (“200”) identified in S15 above to the credit amount stored in the RAM 33 as the credit information. Then, the main CPU 32 overwrites the added value in the RAM 33 as the credit information. Then, the main CPU 32 displays the credit information stored in the RAM 33 (the added value in S44) on the credit amount display portion 8 in the screen H2 of the liquid crystal panel 5B, by transmitting a control signal to the sub control board 72. At the same time, the main CPU 32 displays value “0” on the payout amount display portion 9 in the screen H2 of the liquid crystal panel 5B, by transmitting a control signal to the sub control board 72. Thereafter, the processing is returned to the main game processing program in FIG. 16.

Once the processing is returned to the main game processing program in FIG. 16, the processing is sifted to S25, including the case when the insurance status is not reached (S22: NO). In S25, the main CPU 32 conducts a bet input validation processing. Once this processing is conducted, the main CPU 32 stops ignoring a signal which is inputted in response to depressing the base BET button or the insurance BET button from the operation buttons 11. Thereafter, the main CPU 32 re-conducts the main game processing as shown in FIG. 16.

11. Operation in the Gaming System

Next, the operation in the gaming system 301 according to the present embodiment will be described based on FIG. 19. Incidentally, a control program shown in a flowchart of FIG. 19 is stored (in a ROM 34 and a RAM 33 provided) in each gaming machine 1 and in the server 302. This control program is conducted in (a main CPU 32 provided in) each gaming machine 1 and in the server 302 at intervals that are occurred between while the main game processing program in FIG. 16 is repeated.

First, the operation in each gaming machine 1 will be described. As shown in FIG. 19, a main CPU 32 conducts a first operation acceptance processing in S51. FIG. 20 is a flowchart of the first operation acceptance processing program.

First, as shown in FIG. 20, the main CPU 32 determines whether or not a password is entered, in S71A. This determination is conducted based on a signal inputted to the main CPU 32 in response to depressing operation buttons 11, a signal inputted from a touch panel 101 to the main CPU 32. At this point, if a password is not entered (S71A: NO), the processing is returned to the control program shown in the flowchart of FIG. 19. In contrast, if a password is entered (S71A: YES), the processing is sifted to S72.

Incidentally, a password entering operation is approved in the main CPU 32 when a player touches a password entering display portion 503 in a screen H1 of a liquid crystal panel 5B between while a unit game of a slot game is repeated. The main CPU 32 approves a password entering operation based on a signal inputted to the main CPU 32 from the touch panel 101.

In a situation that a password entering operation is being approved, a player enters a password by depressing alphanumeric buttons from the operation buttons 11. While a password is being entered, symbols “*” are displayed on the password entering display portion 503, as shown on the liquid crystal panel 5B shown on the right side in the middle stage of FIG. 1. Here, one symbol “*” is added in this display each time a player enters one symbol for a password. Such display control is conducted in the main CPU 32 by transmitting a control signal to a sub control board 72 based on a signal inputted in response to depressing the alphanumeric buttons from the operation buttons 11.

Further, the player can end the password entering operation by touching once again the password entering display portion 503 in the screen H1 of the liquid crystal panel 5B. The main CPU 32 ends the password entering operation based on a signal inputted from the touch panel 101 to the main CPU 32.

When the processing is sifted to S72, the main CPU 32 conducts a personal identification information obtaining processing. In this processing, the main CPU 32 obtains the entered password as personal identification information. Thereafter, the processing is returned to the control program shown in the flowchart of FIG. 19.

When the processing is returned to the control program shown in the flowchart of FIG. 19, the processing is sifted to S52. In S52, the main CPU 32 determines whether or not personal identification information has been obtained. This determination is conducted based on the results of the first operation acceptance processing in S51 above. At this point, if personal identification information has not been obtained (S52: NO), the processing is sifted to S57 described below. In contrast, if personal identification information has been obtained (S52: YES), the processing is sifted to S53.

In S53, the main CPU 32 conducts a first operation information transmission processing. In this processing, the main CPU 32 transmits first operation information to the server 302. The first operation information includes personal identification information and transmitting source address. Here, the first operation information includes the entered password as personal identification information and the address for that gaming machine 1 itself as transmitting source address. Thereafter, the processing is sifted to S54.

In S54, the main CPU 32 is in stand-by until a control signal is received from the server 302 (S54: NO). Once a control signal is received from the server 302 (S54: YES), the processing is sifted to S55.

In S55, the main CPU 32 determines whether or not the control signal thus received is a substitution control signal. Here, if the control signal thus received is a non-substitution control signal described below, it is determined that the control signal thus received is not a substitution control signal. At this point, if the control signal thus received is not a substitution control signal (S55: NO), the processing is sifted to S57 described below. In contrast, if the control signal thus received is a substitution control signal (S55: YES), the processing is sifted to S56.

In S56, the main CPU 32 conducts a variable N substitution processing. In this processing, the main CPU 32 adds an insurance amount included in the substitution control signal thus received to a variable N. Further, the main CPU 32 displays the value of the variable N thus added on an insurance amount display portion 501 in the screen H2 of the liquid crystal panel 5B, by transmitting a control signal to the sub control board 72. Thereafter, the processing is sifted to S57.

The processing is sifted to S57 even if personal identification information is not obtained (S52: NO) and the control signal thus received is not a substitution control signal (S55: NO). In S57, the main CPU 32 determines whether or not a second operation has been done. The second operation is a password setting operation. At this point, if the second operation has not been done (S57: NO), the main CPU 32 re-conducts the control program shown in the flowchart of FIG. 19. In contrast, if the second operation has been done (S57: YES), the processing is sifted to S58.

Incidentally, a password setting operation is approved in the main CPU 32 when a player touches a password setting display portion 504 in the screen H1 of the liquid crystal panel 5B while a unit game of a slot game is repeated. The main CPU 32 approves a password setting operation based on a signal inputted from the touch panel 101 to the main CPU 32.

In a situation that a password setting operation being approved, a player can set a password by depressing the alphanumeric buttons from the operation buttons 11. While a password is being set, symbols “*” are displayed on the password setting display portion 504, as shown on the liquid crystal panel 5B shown on the left side in the middle stage of FIG. 1. Here, one symbol “*” is added in the display each time the player sets one symbol for a password. Such display control is conducted in the main CPU 32 by transmitting a control signal to the sub control board 72 based on a signal inputted in response to depressing of the alphanumeric buttons from the operation buttons 11.

Further, the player can end the password setting operation by touching once again the password setting display portion 504 in the screen H1 of the liquid crystal panel 5B. The main CPU 32 ends the password setting operation based on a signal inputted from the touch panel 101 to the main CPU 32.

When the processing is sifted to S58, the main CPU 32 conducts a second operation information transmission processing. In this processing, the main CPU 32 transmits second operation information to the server 302. The second operation information includes personal identification information, transmission source address and an insurance amount. Here, the second operation information includes the set password as personal identification information, the address of that gaming machine 1 itself as transmission source address and the value of the variable N as an insurance amount. Thereafter, the processing is sifted to S59.

In S59, the main CPU 32 is in stand-by until a reset control signal is received from the server 302 (S59: NO). Once a reset control signal is received from the server 302 (S59: YES), the processing is sifted to S60.

In S60, the main CPU 32 conducts a variable N reset processing. In this processing, the main CPU 32 substitutes the variable N for “0”. Then, the main CPU 32 displays the value of the variable N on the insurance amount display portion 501 in the screen H2 of the liquid crystal panel 5B by transmitting a control signal to the sub control board 72. Thereafter, the main CPU 32 re-conducts the control program shown in the flowchart of FIG. 19.

Next, the operation of the server 302 will be described. As shown in FIG. 19, the server 302 determines whether or not first operation information is received in S101. At this point, if first operation information is not received (S101: NO), the processing is sifted to S103 described below. In contrast, if first operation information is received (S101: YES), the processing is sifted to S102.

In S102, the server 302 conducts a first operation processing. FIG. 21 is a flowchart of the first operation processing program.

First, as shown in FIG. 21, the server 302 determines whether or not the gaming machine 1 from where the first operation information is transmitted is in a first status, in S111. The determination is conducted based on the information table 602 in FIG. 14. Specifically, the server 302 identifies the gaming machine 1 identified through the transmission source address included in the first operation information, in the “GAMING MACHINE” column of the information table 602 as shown in FIG. 14. If value “1” as associated with the identified gaming machine 1 is retained in the “STATUS” column of the information table 602 in FIG. 14, the server 302 determines that the gaming machine 1 from which the first operation information is transmitted is in the first status. In contrast, if value “2” as associated with the identified gaming machine 1 is retained in the “STATUS” column of the information table 602 in FIG. 14, the server 302 determines that the gaming machine 1 from which the first operation information is transmitted is not being in the first status. At this point, if the gaming machine 1 from which the first operation information is transmitted is not in the first status (S111: NO), the processing is sifted to S112.

In S112, the server 302 conducts a non-substitution control signal transmission processing. In this processing, the server 302 returns a non-substitution control signal to the gaming machine 1 from which the first operation information is transmitted. The gaming machine 1 from which the first operation information is transmitted is identified through the transmission source address included in the first operation information. Thereafter, the processing is returned to the control program shown in the flowchart of FIG. 19.

In contrast, in S111, if the gaming machine 1 from which the first operation information is transmitted is in the first status (S111: YES), the processing is sifted to S113A. In S113A, the server 302 determines whether or not an identical password exists. Here, the sever 302 determines that an identical password exists if a password which is identical with the entered password included in the first operation information is retained in the information table 601 in FIG. 13. In contrast, the server 302 determines that an identical password does not exist if a password which is identical with the entered password included in the first operation information is not retained in the information table 601 in FIG. 13.

At this point, if an identical password does not exit (S113A: NO), the server 302 returns to the control program shown in the flowchart of FIG. 19, after the processing of S112 above has been conducted. In contrast, if an identical password does exist (S113A: YES), the processing is sifted to S114.

In S114, the server 302 conducts a saved-number-of-games obtaining processing. In this processing, the server 302 identifies a password which is identical with the entered password included in the first operation information through the “PASSWORD” column of the information table 601 in FIG. 13. The server 302 then reads out an insurance amount which is associated with the identified password and which is retained in the “SAVED NUMBER OF GAMES” column of the information table 601 in FIG. 13. Then, the server 302 changes to “0” the insurance amount which is associated with the identified password and which is retained in the “SAVED NUMBER OF GAMES” column of the information table 601. Thereafter, the processing is sifted to S115.

In S115, the server 302 conducts a substitution control signal transmission processing. In this processing, the server 302 returns a substitution control signal to the gaming machine 1 from where the first operation information is transmitted. Incidentally, the gaming machine 1 from where the first operation information is transmitted is identified through the transmission source address included in the first operation information. The substitution control signal includes the insurance amount read out in S114 above. Thereafter, the processing is sifted to S116.

In S116, the server 302 conducts a second status setting processing. In this processing, the server 302 identifies the gaming machine 1 identified through the transmission source address included in the first operation information through the “GAMING MACHINE” column of the information table 602 in FIG. 14. The server 302 changes to value “2” value “1” which is associated with the identified gaming machine 1 and which is retained in the “STATUS” column of the information table 602 shown in FIG. 14. Thereafter, the processing is returned to the control program shown in the flowchart of FIG. 19.

If the processing is returned to the control program shown in the flowchart in FIG. 19 even when first operation information is not received (S101: NO), the server 302 determines whether or not second operation information is received in S103. At this point, the server 302 re-conducts the control program shown in the flowchart in FIG. 19 if second operation information is not received (S103: NO). In contrast, if second operation information is received (S103: YES), the processing is sifted to S104.

In S104, the server 302 conducts a second operation processing. FIG. 22 is a flowchart of the second operation processing program.

First, as shown in FIG. 22, the server 302 conducts a password setting processing in S121. In this processing, the server 302 adds a set password included in the second operation information to the “PASSWORD” column of the information table 601 in FIG. 13. Thereafter, the processing is sifted to S122.

In S122, the server 302 conducts a saved-number-of-games storing processing. In this processing, the server 302 retains the insurance amount included in the second operation information in the “SAVED NUMBER OF GAMES” column of the information table 601 in FIG. 13, in association with the set password which was added to the “PASSWORD” column of the information table 601 in FIG. 13. Thereafter, the processing is sifted to S123.

In S123, the server 302 conducts a reset control signal transmission processing. In this processing, the server 302 returns a reset control signal to the gaming machine 1 from where the second operation information is transmitted.

Incidentally, the gaming machine 1 from where the second operation information is transmitted is identified through the transmission source address included in the second operation information. Thereafter, the processing is sifted to S124.

In S124, the server 302 conducts a first status setting processing. In this processing, the server 302 identifies the gaming machine 1 identified through the transmission source address included in the second operation information through the “GAMING MACHINE” column of the information table 602 in FIG. 14. The server 302 then changes to value “1” value “2” which is associated with the identified gaming machine 1 and which is retained in the “STATUS” column of the information table 602 in FIG. 14. Thereafter, the processing is returned to the control program shown in the flowchart of FIG. 19.

After returning to the control program shown in the flowchart of FIG. 19, the main CPU 32 re-conducts the control program shown in the flowchart of FIG. 19.

12. Standalone

Management of an insurance amount may be conducted at the respective gaming machines 1 only, through a password. Thus, each gaming machine 1 conducts a control program shown in a flowchart of FIG. 23, in place of the control program shown in the flowchart of FIG. 19. Incidentally, the control program shown in the flowchart of FIG. 23 is stored (in a ROM 34 and a RAM 33 provided) in each gaming machine 1. This control program is conducted in (a main CPU 32 provided in) each gaming machine 1 at intervals that are occurred between while the main game processing program in FIG. 16 is repeated.

First, as shown in FIG. 23, a main CPU 32 conducts a first operation acceptance processing in S51. This processing is the same as the first operation acceptance processing shown in FIG. 20 above. Thereafter, the processing is sifted to S52.

In S52, the main CPU 32 determines whether or not personal identification information has been obtained. The determination is the same as the determination in S52 of FIG. 19 above. At this point, if personal identification information has been not obtained (S52: NO), the processing is sifted to S57 described below. In contrast, if personal identification information has been obtained (S52: YES), the processing is sifted to S111.

In S111, the main CPU 32 determines whether or not the gaming machine 1 is in a first status. This determination corresponds to the determination in S111 of FIG. 21 above. However, the first status above and the second status above are managed through a status register provided in the main CPU 32. At this point, if the gaming machine 1 is not in the first status (S111: NO), the processing is sifted to S57 described below. In contrast, if the gaming machine 1 is in the first status (S111: YES), the processing is sifted to S113A.

In S113A, the main CPU 32 determines whether or not an identical password exists. This determination corresponds to the determination in S113A of FIG. 21 above. However, the information table 601 in FIG. 13 is stored in a RAM 33. At this point, if an identical password does not exist (S113A: NO), the processing is sifted to S57 described below. In contrast, if an identical password exists (S113A: YES), the processing is sifted to S114.

In S114, the main CPU 32 conducts a saved-number-of-games obtaining processing. This processing corresponds to the processing in S114 of FIG. 21 above. However, the main CPU 32 conducts a processing which is identical with the processing in S114 of FIG. 21 above, using the information table 601 stored in the RAM 33. Thereafter, the processing is sifted to S116.

In S116, the main CPU 32 conducts a second status setting processing. This processing corresponds to the processing in S116 of FIG. 21 above. However, the main CPU 32 conducts a processing which is identical with the processing in S116 of FIG. 21 above, using the status register provided in the main CPU 32. Thereafter, the processing is sifted to S56.

In S56, the main CPU 32 conducts a variable N substitution processing. This processing is identical with the processing in S56 of FIG. 19 above. Thereafter, the processing is sifted to S57.

The processing is sifted to S57 if personal identification information has been not obtained (S52: NO), the gaming machine 1 is not in the first status (S111: NO) and an identical password does not exist (S113A: NO). The main CPU 32 determines whether or not a second operation has been done. This determination is the same as the determination in S57 of FIG. 19 above. At this point, if a second operation has not been done (S57: NO), the main CPU 32 re-conducts the control program shown in the flowchart of FIG. 23. In contrast, if a second operation has been done (S57: YES), the processing is sifted to S121.

In S121, the main CPU 32 conducts a password setting processing. This processing corresponds to the processing in S121 of FIG. 22 above. However, the main CPU 32 conducts a processing which is identical with the processing in S121 of FIG. 22 above, using the information table 601 stored in the RAM 33. Thereafter, the processing is sifted to S122.

In S122, the main CPU 32 conducts a saved-number-of-games storing processing. This processing corresponds to the processing in S122 of FIG. 22 above. However, the main CPU 32 conducts a processing which is identical with the processing in S122 in FIG. 22, using the information table 601 stored inside the RAM 33. Thereafter, the processing is sifted to S124.

In S124, the main CPU 32 conducts a first status setting processing. This processing corresponds to the processing in S124 of FIG. 22 above. However, the main CPU 32 conducts a processing which is identical with the processing in S124 of FIG. 22 above, using the status register provided in the main CPU 32. Thereafter, the processing is sifted to S60.

In S60, the main CPU 32 conducts a variable N reset processing. This processing is identical with the processing in S60 of FIG. 19 above. Thereafter, the main CPU 32 re-conducts the control processing shown in the flowchart in FIG. 23.

13. IC Card

In the gaming system 301 according to the present embodiment, an IC number stored in an IC card 103 may be handled as personal identification information, in place of a password. Thus, a first operation acceptance processing in FIG. 24, a first operation processing in FIG. 25 and a second operation processing in FIG. 26 are conducted in place of the first operation acceptance processing in FIG. 20 above, the first operation processing in FIG. 21 above and the second operation processing in FIG. 22 above.

In the first operation acceptance processing in FIG. 24, a main CPU 32 first determines, in S71B, whether or not an IC card 103 has been loaded in a card reader 15. This determination is conducted based on a signal inputted from the card reader 15 to the main CPU 32. At this point, if an IC card 103 has not been loaded in the card reader 15 (S71B: NO), the processing is returned to the control program shown in the flowchart of FIG. 19. In contrast, if an IC card 103 has been loaded in the card reader 15 (571B: YES), the processing is sifted to S72.

In S72, the main CPU 32 conducts a personal identification information obtaining processing. In this processing, the main CPU 32 obtains an IC number of the IC card 103 loaded in the card reader 15 as personal identification information. Thereafter, the processing is returned to the control program shown in the flowchart of FIG. 19. The IC number obtained as personal identification information is included in the first operation information as personal identification information.

In the first operation processing in FIG. 25, the server 302 first determines, in S113B, whether or not an identical IC number exists. In the determination, the information table 701 shown in FIG. 28 is employed. The information table 701 in FIG. 28 is stored in the hard disk device 304 of the server 302.

In the server 302, an insurance amount of the insurance amount display portion 501 is associated with an IC number and is retained in the information table 701 in FIG. 28. In the information table 701 in FIG. 28, an IC number is retained in the “IC NUMBER” column, and an insurance amount of the insurance amount display portion 501 is retained in the “SAVED NUMBER OF GAMES”. In the information table 701 in FIG. 28, all IC numbers whose existence is confirmed in the gaming system 301 according to the present embodiment are retained in the “IC NUMBER” column. Insurance amounts of the insurance amount display portion 501 are associated with the IC numbers and are retained in the “SAVED NUMBER OF GAMES” column.

In the determination in S113B, the server 302 determines that an identical IC number exists if an IC number which is identical with the IC number included in the first operation information is retained in the information table 701 in FIG. 28. In contrast, the server 302 determines that an identical IC number does not exist if an IC number which is identical with the IC number included in the first operation information is not retained in the information table 701 in FIG. 28.

At this point, if an identical IC number does not exist (S113B: NO), the server 302 proceeds to S112.

In S112, the server 302 conducts a non-substitution control signal transmission processing. In this processing, the server 302 returns a non-substitution control signal to the gaming machine 1 from where the first operation information is transmitted. Incidentally, the gaming machine 1 from where the first operation information is transmitted is identified through the transmission source address included in the first operation information. Thereafter, the processing is sifted to the control program shown in the flowchart of FIG. 19.

In contrast, if an identical IC number exists (S113B: YES), the processing is sifted to S114.

In S114, the server 302 conducts a saved-number-of-games obtaining processing. In this processing, the server 302 identifies an IC number which is identical with the IC number included in the first operation information through the “IC NUMBER” column of the information table 701 in FIG. 28. The server 302 then reads out an insurance amount which is associated with the identified IC number and which is retained in the “SAVED NUMBER OF GAMES” column of the information table 701 in the FIG. 28. Then, the server 302 changes to “0” the insurance amount which is associated with the identified IC number and which is retained in the “SAVED NUMBER OF GAMES” column of the information table 701. Thereafter, the processing is sifted to S115.

In S115, the server 302 conducts a substitution control signal transmission processing. In this processing, the server 302 returns a substitution control signal to the gaming machine 1 from where the first operation information is transmitted. Incidentally, the gaming machine 1 from where the first operation information is transmitted is identified through the transmission source address included in the first operation information. The substitution control signal includes the insurance amount read out in S114 above. Thereafter, the processing is returned to the control program shown in the flowchart of FIG. 19.

In the second operation acceptance processing in FIG. 26, it is assumed that each processing of S57 and S58 that are included in the control program shown in the flowchart of FIG. 19 above are conducted in the following manner. Specifically, in S57, the main CPU 32 determines whether or not the second operation has been done. The second operation is an operation of removing an IC card 103. At this point, if the second operation has not been done (S57: NO), the main CPU 32 re-conducts the control program shown in the flowchart of FIG. 19. In contrast, if the second operation has been done (S57: YES), the processing is sifted to S58.

Incidentally, the operation of removing an IC card 103 includes, for instance, an operation wherein a player conducts an operation to remove an IC card 103 from the card reader 15. The main CPU 32 determines whether or not the removing operation of an IC card 103 has been conducted based on a signal inputted from the card reader 15 to the main CPU 32.

When the processing is sifted to S58, the main CPU 32 conducts a second operation information transmission processing. In this processing, the main CPU 32 transmits second operation information to the server 302. The second operation information includes personal identification information, transmission source address and an insurance amount. Here, the second operation information includes the IC number (the IC number of the IC card 103 which is removed from the card reader 15) obtained in S72 above as personal identification information, the address of that gaming machine 1 itself as transmission source address and the value of the variable N as an insurance amount. Thereafter, the processing is sifted to S59.

As was described earlier, in the second operation acceptance processing in FIG. 26, it is assumed that each processing of S57 and S58 that are included in the control program shown in the flowchart of FIG. 19 above are conducted in the above-described manner. Specifically, in the second acceptance processing in FIG. 26, the server 302 first conducts a saved-number-of-games storing processing in S122. In this processing, the server 302 retains the insurance amount included in the second operation information in the “SAVED NUMBER OF GAMES” column of the information table 701 in FIG. 28, in association with the IC number which is identical with the IC number included in the second operation information. Thereafter, the processing is sifted to S123.

In S123, the server 302 conducts a reset control signal transmission processing. In this processing, the server 302 returns a reset control signal to the gaming machine 1 from where the second operation information is transmitted. Incidentally, the gaming machine 1 from where the second operation information is transmitted is identified through the transmission source address included in the second operation information. Thereafter, the processing is returned to the control program shown in the flowchart of FIG. 19.

14. Standalone

IC Card

Management of an insurance amount through an IC card 103 may be conducted only at the respective gaming machines 1. Thus, each gaming machine 1 conducts a control program as shown in a flowchart of FIG. 27, in place of the control program shown in the flowchart in FIG. 19. Incidentally, the control program shown in the flowchart of FIG. 27 is stored (in a ROM 34 and a RAM 33 provided) in each gaming machine 1. This control program is conducted in a main CPU 32 provided in each gaming machine 1 at intervals that are occurred between while the main game processing program in FIG. 16 is repeated.

First, as shown in FIG. 27, the main CPU 32 conducts a first operation acceptance processing in S51. This processing is the same as the first operation acceptance processing in FIG. 24 above. Thereafter, the processing is sifted to S52.

In S52, the main CPU 32 determines whether or not personal identification information has been obtained. This determination is the same as the processing in S52 of FIG. 19 above. At this point, if personal identification information has been not obtained (S52: NO), the processing is sifted to S57 described below. In contrast, if personal identification information has been obtained (S52: YES), the processing is sifted to S113B.

In S113B, the main CPU 32 determines whether or not an identical IC number exists. The determination corresponds to the determination in S113B of FIG. 25 above. However, the information table 701 in FIG. 28 is stored in a RAM 33. At this point, if an identical IC number does not exist (5113B: NO), the processing is sifted to S57 described below. In contrast, if an identical IC number exists (S113B: YES), the processing is sifted to S114.

In S114, the main CPU 32 conducts a saved-number-of-games obtaining processing. This processing corresponds to the processing in S114 of FIG. 25 above. However, the main CPU 32 conducts a processing which is identical with the processing in S114 of FIG. 25 above, using the information table 701 stored in the RAM 33. Thereafter, the processing is sifted to S56.

In S56, the main CPU 32 conducts a variable N substitution processing. This processing is the same as the processing shown in S56 of FIG. 19 above. Thereafter, the processing is sifted to S57.

The processing is sifted to S57 if personal identification information has not been obtained (S52: NO) and an identical IC number does not exist (S113B: NO). Here, the main CPU 32 determines whether or not the second operation has been was done. The second operation is an operation of removing an IC card 103. At this point, if the second operation has not been done (S57: NO), the main CPU 32 re-conducts the control program shown in the flowchart of FIG. 27. In contrast, if the second operation has been done (S57: YES), the processing is sifted to S122.

In S122, the main CPU 32 conducts a saved-number-of-games storing processing. This processing corresponds to the processing in S122 of FIG. 26 above. However, the main CPU 32 conducts a processing which is identical with the processing in S122 of FIG. 26 above, using the information table 701 stored in the RAM 33. Thereafter, the processing is sifted to S60.

In S60, the main CPU 32 conducts a variable N reset processing. This processing is the same as the processing in S60 of FIG. 19 above. Thereafter, the main CPU 32 re-conducts the control program shown in the flowchart of FIG. 27.

15. Omission of Insurance Bet

The insurance function in the present disclosure is may always be employed. In this case, an insurance BET button from operation buttons 11 may be omitted in each gaming machine 1. Specifically, in this case, in each gaming machine 1, if a player depresses a base BET button from operation buttons 11 to set a base bet amount and the player depresses a game start button from the operation buttons 11, an insurance bet is set surely.

At this time, in each gaming machine 1, an amount corresponding to a predetermined ratio of the base bet amount may be subtracted from the base bet amount as insurance bet amount.

To set such an insurance bet automatically, a main game processing in FIG. 29 is conducted in each gaming machine 1, in place of the main game processing in S16 above. FIG. 29 is a flowchart of the main game processing program in each gaming machine 1.

First, as shown in FIG. 29, a main CPU 32 conducts a start acceptance processing in S11. This processing is the same as the processing shown in S11 of FIG. 16 above. Thereafter, the processing is sifted to S13.

In S13, the main CPU 32 determines whether or not a game start button from operation buttons 11 has been depressed. This determination is the same as the determination in S13 of FIG. 16 above. Specifically, if the game start button from the operation buttons 11 has not been depressed (S13: NO), the processing is returned to the start acceptance processing (S11) once again. Thus, a bet amount correction processing or the like is enabled. In contrast, if the game start button from the operation buttons 11 has been depressed (S13: YES), a base bet amount or an insurance bet amount set based on the above bet operation is stored in a RAM 33 as bet information by the main CPU 32. Then, the processing is sifted to S14.

In S14, the main CPU 32 conducts a bet input invalidation processing. This processing is the same as the processing shown in S14 of FIG. 16 above. Thereafter, the processing is sifted to S15.

In S15, the main CPU 32 conducts an insurance amount identification processing. This processing is the same as the processing shown in S15 of FIG. 16 above. However, if the accumulated value of the insurance bet amount is identified as the special payout amount, an amount corresponding to a predetermined ratio of a base bet amount is accumulated and the accumulated value is identified as the special payout amount. Thereafter, the processing is sifted to S16.

After shifting to S16, the main CPU 32 conducts a base game lottery processing. This processing is the same as the processing shown in S16 of FIG. 16 above. Thereafter, the processing is sifted to S17.

In S17, the main CPU 32 conducts a symbol display control processing. This processing is the same as the processing shown in S17 of FIG. 16 above. Thereafter, the processing is sifted to S18.

In S18, the main CPU 32 determines whether or not there is a winning combination. This determination is the same as the determination in S18 of FIG. 16 above. However, if there is not a winning combination (S18: NO), the processing is sifted to S24 described below. In contrast, if there is a winning combination (S18: YES), the processing is sifted to S19.

Identically with the determination in S18 of FIG. 16 above, the main CPU 32 also conducts the payout amount display processing in the determining processing of S18 here.

In S19, the main CPU 32 determines whether or not the bonus game trigger is realized. This determination is the same as the determination in S19 of FIG. 16 above. Specifically, if the bonus game trigger is realized (S19: YES), the main CPU 32 conducts a bonus game processing in S20.

Incidentally, the bonus game processing in S20 is the same as the bonus game processing shown in S20 of FIG. 16 above.

Thereafter, the processing is sifted to S21, including the case when the bonus game trigger is not realized (S19: NO). In S21, the main CPU 32 conducts a payout processing. This processing is the same as the processing shown in S21 in FIG. 16 above.

Thereafter, the processing is sifted to S24, including the case when there is not a winning combination (S18: NO). In S24, the main CPU 32 conducts an insurance processing. This processing is the same as the processing shown in S24 in FIG. 16 above. Thereafter, the processing is sifted to S25.

In S25, the main CPU 32 conducts a bet input validation processing. This processing is the same as the processing shown in S25 in FIG. 16 above. Thereafter, the main CPU 32 re-conducts the main game processing in FIG. 29.

16. Other

The present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described above, but various modifications can be made thereto without departing from the spirit of the present disclosure.

For instance, in the gaming machines 1 according to the present embodiment, any of the gaming machines 1 connected to the network 401 may function as the server 302.

Claims

1. A gaming machine comprising:

a bet switch which is employed by a player so as to bet a gaming value with respect to a unit game;

an input device which is employed by a player so as to perform a first operation or a second operation;

a storage device in which personal identification information and number of saved games are stored connectedly; and

a processor which is programmed so as to conduct each processing from the processing of (1) below to the processing of (3-2) below,

(1) if a gaming value is bet through the bet switch:

(1-1) triggered by a start of the unit game:

(1-1-1) making the bet switch invalid;

(1-2) if a player wins a prize at the started unit game:

(1-2-1) awarding a gaming value corresponding to the prize to the player;

(1-3) each time the unit game starts:

(1-3-1) incrementing a variable by one of a predetermined numerical value and a randomly determined numerical value; and

(1-3-2) if the incremented variable is equal to a predetermined number:

(1-3-2-1) awarding a special gaming value to the player; and

(1-3-2-2) resetting the variable; and

(1-4) triggered by an ending of the started unit game:

(1-4-1) making the bet switch valid so as to accept a gaming value bet by the player with respect to a unit game which starts next;

(2) if it is determined that personal identification information is input by the first operation through the input device:

(2-1) reading the number of saved games being stored in connection with the personal identification information to be determined from the storage device; and

(2-2) substituting the number of saved games which is read for the variable; and

(3) if it is determined that the second operation of the input device is performed:

(3-1) storing as the number of saved games the variable in connection with personal identification information in the storage device; and

(3-2) resetting the variable stored as the number of saved games.

2. The gaming machine of claim 1, further comprising:

an insurance bet switch which is employed by a player so as to bet a gaming value with respect to a unit game, wherein

the processor conducts each processing of (1-3) above, only if a gaming value is bet with respect to the started unit game through the insurance bet switch before the start of the unit game.

3. The gaming machine of claim 1, wherein:

the first operation through the input device represents an operation of loading an IC card storing the personal identification information into the input device and obtaining the personal identification information being stored in the IC card through the input device; and

the second operation through the input device represents an operation of taking out the IC card from the input device.

4. The gaming machine of claim 3, further comprising:

an insurance bet switch which is employed by a player so as to bet a gaming value with respect to a unit game, wherein

the processor conducts each processing of (1-3) above, only if a gaming value is bet with respect to the started unit game through the insurance bet switch before the start of the unit game.

5. The gaming machine of claim 1, wherein:

the second operation through the input device represents an operation of setting a password as the personal identification information through the input device; and

the first operation through the input device represents an operation of inputting through the input device a same password as the password which is set as the personal identification information.

6. The gaming machine of claim 5, further comprising:

an insurance bet switch which is employed by a player so as to bet a gaming value with respect to a unit game, wherein

the processor conducts each processing of (1-3) above, only if a gaming value is bet with respect to the started unit game through the insurance bet switch before the start of the unit game.

7. The gaming machine of claim 5, wherein

the processor which is programmed so as to conduct each processing from the processing of (A) below to the processing of (B) below,

(A) only if the determination of (2) above is made and a flag indicates a first status:

(A-1) conducting each processing of (2-1) above and (2-2) above; and

(A-2) changing the flag from the first status to a second status; and

(B) if the determination of (3) above is made, conducting each processing of (3-1) above and (3-2) above, and changing the flag from the second status to the first status.

8. The gaming machine of claim 7, further comprising:

an insurance bet switch which is employed by a player so as to bet a gaming value with respect to a unit game, wherein

the processor conducts each processing of (1-3) above, only if a gaming value is bet with respect to the started unit game through the insurance bet switch before the start of the unit game.

9. The gaming machine of claim 1, wherein

the special gaming value is awarded as an insurance payout to the player.

10. A gaming system including a plurality of gaming machines and a server,

the plurality of gaming machines comprising:

a bet switch which is employed by a player so as to bet a gaming value with respect to a unit game;

an input device which is employed by a player so as to perform a first operation or a second operation; and

a first processor which is programmed so as to conduct each processing from the processing of (1) below to the processing of (1-4-1) below,

(1) if a gaming value is bet through the bet switch:

(1-1) triggered by a start of the unit game:

(1-1-1) making the bet switch invalid;

(1-2) if a player wins a prize at the started unit game:

(1-2-1) awarding a gaming value corresponding to the prize to the player;

(1-3) each time the unit game starts:

(1-3-1) incrementing a variable by one of a predetermined numerical value and a randomly determined numerical value; and

(1-3-2) if the incremented variable is equal to a predetermined number:

(1-3-2-1) awarding a special gaming value to the player; and

(1-3-2-2) resetting the variable; and

(1-4) triggered by an ending of the started unit game: and

(1-4-1) making the bet switch valid so as to accept a gaming value bet by the player with respect to a unit game which starts next,

the server comprising:

a storage device in which personal identification information and number of saved games are stored connectedly; and

a second processor which is programmed so as to conduct each processing from the processing of (2) below to the processing of (3-2) below,

(2) if it is determined that personal identification information is input by the first operation through the input device at any one of the plurality of gaming machines:

(2-1) reading the number of saved games being stored in connection with the personal identification information to be determined from the storage device; and

(2-2) controlling the gaming machine to be determined so as to substitute the number of saved games which is read for the variable; and

(3) if it is determined that the second operation of the input device is performed at the gaming machine to be determined:

(3-1) storing as the number of saved games the variable of the gaming machine to be determined in connection with personal identification information in the storage device; and

(3-2) controlling the gaming machine to be determined so as to reset the variable.

11. The gaming system of claim 10,

the plurality of gaming machines further comprising:

an insurance bet switch which is employed by a player so as to bet a gaming value with respect to a unit game, wherein

the first processor conducts each processing of (1-3) above, only if a gaming value is bet with respect to the started unit game through the insurance bet switch before the start of the unit game.

12. The gaming system of claim 10, wherein:

the first operation through the input device represents an operation of loading an IC card storing the personal identification information into the input device and obtaining the personal identification information being stored in the IC card through the input device; and

the second operation through the input device represents an operation of taking out the IC card from the input device.

13. The gaming system of claim 12,

the plurality of gaming machines further comprising:

an insurance bet switch which is employed by a player so as to bet a gaming value with respect to a unit game, wherein

the first processor conducts each processing of (1-3) above, only if a gaming value is bet with respect to the started unit game through the insurance bet switch before the start of the unit game.

14. The gaming system of claim 10, wherein:

the second operation through the input device represents an operation of setting a password as the personal identification information through the input device; and

the first operation through the input device represents an operation of inputting through the input device a same password as the password which is set as the personal identification information.

15. The gaming system of claim 14,

the plurality of gaming machines further comprising:

an insurance bet switch which is employed by a player so as to bet a gaming value with respect to a unit game, wherein

the first processor conducts each processing of (1-3) above, only if a gaming value is bet with respect to the started unit game through the insurance bet switch before the start of the unit game.

16. The gaming system of claim 14, wherein

the second processor which is programmed so as to conduct each processing from the processing of (A) below to the processing of (B) below,

(A) only if the determination of (2) above is made and a flag of the gaming machine to be determined indicates a first status:

(A-1) conducting each processing of (2-1) above and (2-2) above; and

(A-2) changing the flag from the first status to a second status; and

(B) if the determination of (3) above is made, conducting each processing of (3-1) above and (3-2) above, and changing the flag from the second status to the first status.

17. The gaming system of claim 16,

the plurality of gaming machines further comprising:

an insurance bet switch which is employed by a player so as to bet a gaming value with respect to a unit game, wherein

the first processor conducts each processing of (1-3) above, only if a gaming value is bet with respect to the started unit game through the insurance bet switch before the start of the unit game.

18. The gaming system of claim 10, wherein

the special gaming value is awarded as an insurance payout to the player.