Gaming machine and method of providing a game

Abstract

The present invention is a gaming machine that realizes an exciting game typically in a slot machine format. The gaming machine includes a controller and a display. The controller runs games, accepts a bet of credit and returns a certain amount of credit as a payout. This payout amount is determined by multiplying a winning amount and a certain value of multiplier. The controller runs a primary game and a secondary game. When the secondary game is triggered, the controller displays a choice for acceptance or decline of an extra bet to the player on the display. When the player chooses to accept the extra bet, the value of multiplier is set larger than a default value of multiplier. After the value of multiplier is changed, the changed value of multiplier is shown on the display in a different area where the symbols are shown during the secondary game.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to gaming machines such as mechanical slot machines and video slot machines that are popularly played in casinos, pachisuro parlors and other locations, and a method of providing a game using such gaming machines.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Slot machines are popular gaming machines in casinos and they attract many players. A typical slot machine has mechanical reels internally, on which symbols are arranged. In a video slot machine, or just called video slot, the mechanical reels are replaced by imaginary or virtual reels shown on a screen. In these gaming machines, once the player bets a wager and instructs the gaming machine to start the game by pushing the start button, for example, the reels rotate for a while and then stop to indicate a combination or combinations of symbols. When the combination(s) of symbols comprise a predetermined winning combination(s) of symbols formed along one or more pay lines, the player can receive a corresponding prize (the pay line on which a winning combination of symbols is formed may be called a winning line). In some cases, the prize paid out to the player can be dozens or even hundreds of times larger than the bet wager. Such occasional big wins make the slot machine exciting.

Many gaming machines nowadays have a primary game and a secondary game. The primary game is a game that the player plays first after he/she bets a money. The secondary game is initiated when a predetermined condition is met while the player is playing the primary game. The secondary game is preferably designed to be different from the primary games in appearance, necessity for bet or probability to win so that the player can enjoy fresh excitement from the secondary game.

Players' preferences for the gaming machine vary from player to player. Some players prefer a highly volatile game and some players prefer a moderately volatile game. For this reason, many traditional slot machines are adapted to allow a player to change a bet per pay-line and a number of activated or effective pay-lines in the primary game so that the player can change the volatility of the game to a certain extent. However, they are not sufficient to fully meet the diversity of preferences of the players, and an improved gaming machine and method are desired.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

One aspect of the present invention is a gaming machine, including a controller, which accepts a bet of credit and returns a certain amount of credit as a payout determined by multiplying a winning amount and a certain value of multiplier, and which runs a primary game and a secondary game; wherein the value of multiplier is set larger than a default value of multiplier in the secondary game when the controller accepts a bet of credit before starting the secondary game. This arrangement of the gaming machine can attract a wide range of players.

An example of the ‘bet of credit’ before starting the secondary game is an extra bet or additional bet to increase the value of multiplier. The extra bet provides the player with a chance to enhance the volatility of the game.

One preferable ‘default value of multiplier’ is a value of multiplier used in the primary game. This makes the game easier to understand. The other preferable ‘default value of multiplier’ is a value of a numeral indicated in a multiplier symbol on a reel provided to the gaming machine. This enables the player to intuitively understand the value of multiplier. Such a reel may be a mechanical reel or a virtual reel.

It is preferable that the gaming machine further includes a display and the controller displays a choice for acceptance or decline of the extra bet to the player on the display. Then, the controller sets the value of multiplier used in the secondary game based on the player's choice. This provides the player a chance to decide whether the player takes a risk or not.

Another aspect of the present invention is a gaming machine including a controller, which accepts a bet of credit and returns a certain amount of credit as a payout determined by multiplying a winning amount and a certain value of multiplier, and which runs a primary game and a secondary game; wherein the controller sets the value of multiplier used for the secondary game based on the bet amount in the primary game, and wherein the value of multiplier is increased in the secondary game when the controller accepts an additional bet before starting the secondary game. This gaming machine can also allow the player to adjust volatility of the game to his/her preference and thus can attract a wide range of players.

Another aspect of the present invention is a gaming machine including a controller, which accepts a bet of credit and returns a certain amount of credit as a payout determined by multiplying a winning amount and a certain value of multiplier, and which runs a primary game and a secondary game, and a display that shows a reel having a specific type of symbol; wherein the controller offers a choice for acceptance or decline of an extra bet to a player with a value of multiplier used in the secondary game, and wherein the controller changes the value of multiplier offered to the player based on the specific type of symbol shown in the display in the primary game. This gaming machine can also attract a wide range of players. Furthermore, the game provided by this gaming machine becomes more fun.

One example of the ‘specific type of symbol’ is a symbol that triggers the secondary game such as bonus symbol or special bonus symbol. This makes it easier for the player to understand why the value of multiplier is changed.

Another aspect of the present invention is a gaming machine including a controller, which accepts a bet of credit and returns a certain amount of credit as a payout determined by multiplying a winning amount and a certain value of multiplier, and which runs a primary game and a secondary game, and a display that shows a reel having symbols; wherein the controller sets the value of multiplier used in the secondary game at random, and wherein the value of multiplier randomly set is increased in the secondary game when the controller accepts an additional bet before starting the secondary game. This arrangement brings the player surprise excitement and controllable volatility together.

Another aspect of the present invention is a method of providing a game including the steps of: running a primary game; offering a choice for acceptance or decline of a bet of credit after the primary game; changing a value of multiplier according to the choice; and running a secondary game, using the value of multiplier. This method can fulfill the preferences of diverse players.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view that illustrates an example of a gaming machine of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram that illustrates input/output connections between the components of the gaming machine shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a developed view that illustrates reels incorporated in the gaming machine shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 4 is a display image to explain Example 1 of the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a display image to explain Example 1 of the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a display image to explain Example 1 of the present invention.

FIG. 7 is a display image to explain Example 1 of the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a display image to explain Example 1 of the present invention.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart that describes an overview of an operation of Examples of the present invention.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart that describes the steps of the operation outlined in FIG. 9 and that explains the operation of Example 1 in detail.

FIG. 11 is a flowchart that describes the steps of the operation outlined in FIG. 9 and that explains the operation of Example 1 in detail.

FIG. 12 is a display image to explain Example 2 of the present invention.

FIG. 13 is a display image to explain Example 2 of the present invention.

FIG. 14 is a flowchart that describes the steps of the operation outlined in FIG. 9 and that explains the operation of Example 2 in detail.

FIG. 15 is a display image to explain Example 3 of the present invention.

FIG. 16 is a display image to explain Example 3 of the present invention.

FIG. 17 is a display image to explain Example 3 of the present invention.

FIG. 18 is a display image to explain Example 3 of the present invention.

FIG. 19 is a flowchart that describes the steps of the operation outlined in FIG. 9 and that explains the operation of Example 3 in detail.

FIG. 20 is a display image to explain Example 4 of the present invention.

FIG. 21 is a flowchart that describes the steps of the operation outlined in FIG. 9 and that explains the operation of Example 4 in detail.

FIG. 22 is a display image to explain a variation of Example 4 of the present invention.

FIG. 23 is a display image to explain Example 5 of the present invention.

FIG. 24 is a display image to explain Example 5 of the present invention.

FIG. 25 is a flowchart that describes the steps of the operation outlined in FIG. 9 and that explains the operation of Example 5 in detail.

FIG. 26 is a display image to explain Example 6 of the present invention.

FIG. 27 is a flowchart that describes the steps of the operation outlined in FIG. 9 and that explains the operation of Example 6 in detail.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF INVENTION

Below, the present invention of the gaming machine is described in detail based on specific examples in the following orders:

§1. Overview of the Gaming Machine 1

§1.1 Architecture of the Gaming Machine 1

§1.2 Overview of the Operation of the Gaming Machine 1

§2. Example 1

§2.1. Design of Example 1

§2.2. Operation of Example 1

§2.3. Advantage of Example 1

§3. Example 2

§3.1. Design of Example 2

§3.2. Operation of Example 2

§3.3. Advantage of Example 2

§4. Example 3

§4.1. Design of Example 3

§4.2. Operation of Example 3

§4.3. Advantage of Example 3

§4.4. Miscellaneous Remarks

§5. Example 4

§5.1. Design of Example 4

§5.2. Operation of Example 4

§5.3. Advantage of Example 4

§5.4. Variation of Example 4

§5.5. Miscellaneous Remarks

§6. Example 5

§6.1. Design of Example 5

§6.2. Operation of Example 5

§6.3. Advantage of Example 5

§7. Example 6

§7.1. Design of Example 6

§7.2. Operation of Example 6

§7.3. Advantage of Example 6

§8. Miscellaneous Remarks

§1. OVERVIEW OF THE GAMING MACHINE 1

In the beginning, an overview of the gaming machine 1 is explained, using FIGS. 1-3 and 9.

§1.1 Architecture of the Gaming Machine 1

FIG. 1 is a perspective view that illustrates an example of a gaming machine of the present invention. The gaming machine 1 is so called a slot machine, in which reels are shown in its display. On the reels, symbols are aligned in rows. Once a player bets a credit and instructs to spin the reels, the reels rotate and stop after a while. When the symbols align to be a certain combination on an activated pay line, the player can receive a credit as a reward.

As shown in FIG. 1, the gaming machine 1 has an emergency lamp 61, an advertisement board 62, a card slot 63, a display 3, a touch panel 5, a coin slot 64, a bill acceptor 65, buttons 4 and a payout tray 66. The gaming machine 1 also has reels 35 and a controller 2 internally.

On the top of the gaming machine 1 stands the emergency lamp 61. It is arranged to light on when a trouble happens somewhere on or in the gaming machine 1. The advertisement board 62 is located on the upper part of the gaming machine 1. It shows catchy illustrations and messages that attract potential players. The card slot 63 is provided below the advertisement board 62. It accepts a player's card which records information about the player. The card slot 63 also reads and writes the player's information on the player's card.

Below the card slot 63 lies the display 3. The players are supposed to play games, watching the display 3. The display 3 has two main sectors, a reel window 31 and a liquid crystal display (LCD) 32. In the gaming machine 1, the reels 35, pay line marks 37 and a transflective LCD 33 are provided by or on the reel window 31. As described before, the reels 35 are internally installed in the gaming machine 1, parts of which are facing to the reel window 31. Since the reel window 31 is basically transparent, some parts of the reels 35 are seen through the reel window 31.

FIG. 3 is a developed view of the reels 35. The reels 35 have a ring structure so that they rotate in the gaming machine 1. FIG. 3 illustrates an image of the reels 35 that are developed on a plane. As shown in this figure, symbols 36 are aligned in rows on the reels 35. In normal situation, three of the symbols 36 are located beneath the reel window 31, through which the player can see the three symbols 36 like FIG. 1. As the reels 35 rotate in the gaming machine 1, the symbols 36 move from top to bottom in the reel window 31, for example, and the arrangements of the symbols 36 shown in the reel window 31 change.

Aside from the reels 35, the pay line marks 37 are provided so that they sandwich the reels 35 between them. In the gaming machine 1, a pay line is constituted by a line that connects two of the pay line marks 37 across the reels 35. Each of the pay lines runs through all the reels 35 and runs one of the three rows in each reel 35 in the reel window 31. When the player plays the game, the player selects the pay line marks 37 to activate the pay line(s). If three symbols 36 align on any of the activated pay lines with a certain combination, the player wins.

On the display 3, the transflective LCD 33 is also provided in the reel window 31 as an overlay panel. The transflective LCD 33 sometimes masks, modifies or overwrites the symbols 36 underneath.

Adjacent to the reel window 31, the LCD 32 is provided. The LCD 32 shows auxiliary messages and images of the game like FIG. 4. As shown in this figure, the LCD 32 has main three areas, an auxiliary reel area 321, an upper message area 322 and a lower message area 323. In the auxiliary reel area 321, a reel image is provided. This image corresponds to the reel view seen in the reel window 31 as if it is a copy of the view seen on the reel window 31. The pay line marks 37 are also shown by the auxiliary reel area 321. Above the auxiliary reel area 321, the upper message area 322 is provided. This area shows important messages to the player to carry out the game. Below the auxiliary reel area 321 is the lower message area 323, which also shows messages necessary for the games. The lower message area 323 also shows cheerful messages that cheer up the player sometimes.

As shown in FIG. 1, on the display 3, the touch panel 5 is overlayed. It sometimes receives a player's choice and instruction before, during or after the game when the player touches a specific area of the touch panel 5.

Below the display 3, the coin slot 64 and the bill acceptor 65 are provided. The player can insert coins into the coin slot 64 and bills or a credit card into the bill acceptor 65. Once the slot machine 1 accepts the money, the amount of money is converted to an amount of credit. With this credit, the gaming machine 1 provides fun slot games to the player.

The buttons 4 are also provided below the display 3. The buttons 4 are constituted with a MAX BET button 41, a PAYOUT button 42, BET buttons 43, LINE buttons 44 and a SPIN button 45. The BET buttons 43 are arranged from a 1 BET button to a 5 BET button from left to right. The numbers written on the BET buttons 43 correspond to the bet amounts of credit the player bet per line. For example, the player can bet one credit per line by pushing the 1 BET button, two credits per line by pushing the 2 BET button and five credits per line by pushing the 5 BET button. The MAX BET button 41 allows the player to bet the maximum amount of credit that is permitted in the game. Parallel to the BET buttons 43, the LINE buttons 44 are arranged. The LINE buttons 44 are arranged from a 1 LINE button to a 5 LINE button from left to right. The numbers written on the LINE buttons 44 correspond to the number of pay lines the player activates for the game. For example, the player pushes the 1 LINE button when he/she wants to activate 1 pay line for the game and the player pushes the 5 LINE button when he/she wants to activate 5 pay lines. The SPIN button 45 is provided to initiate the game after the player selects the bet amount and pay lines. Once the player presses the SPIN button 45, the reels 35 rotate. The PAYOUT button 42 is provided to return money to the player based on the amount of credit remained in the gaming machine 1. When the player finishes the game and wants to leave the gaming machine 1, the player pushes the PAYOUT button 42. Then, a certain amount of money or a money order is paid out from the payout tray 66, which is located near the bottom of the gaming machine 1.

All the components of the gaming machine 1 described above are controlled by the controller 2, which is installed inside of the gaming machine 1. FIG. 2 is a block diagram that illustrates input/output connections between the components of the gaming machine 1. As shown in this figure, the LCD 32, the transflective LCD 33, reels 35, buttons 4, touch panel 5, emergency lamp 61, advertisement board 62, card slot 63, coin slot 64, bill acceptor 65, and payout tray 66 are all electrically connected to the controller 2. The controller 2 is composed of a central processing unit (CPU) 21, a memory 22 and an input/output (I/O) port 23. The CPU 21 is arranged to run a computer program written in the memory 22. The memory 22 is designed not only to provide the program to the CPU 21 but also to store temporary data including values sent from the CPU 21. Based on the program and data stored in the memory 22 and inputs from the buttons 4, touch panel 5, card slot 63, coin slot 64 and bill acceptor 65 via the I/O port 23, the CPU 21 runs the game. The CPU 21 also outputs necessary information to the LCD 32, transflective LCD 33, reels 35, emergency lamp 61, advertisement board 62, card slot 63 and payout tray 66 via the I/O port 23 to run the game and to operate the gaming machine 1 properly. In short, the game is substantially controlled by the controller 2 in the gaming machine 1. In addition, all the Examples described below are substantially realized by software stored in the memory 22. Thus, the gaming machine 1 can carry out all the Examples described below without replacing the hardware components, but just running a selected program written in the memory 22.

§1.2 Overview of the Operation of the Gaming Machine 1

In this section, the operation of the gaming machine 1 is described briefly before explaining Examples in detail. As described later, the gaming machine 1 provides a primary game and a secondary game. The primary game is a game that the player plays first after he/she bets a money and also a game most frequently executed in an entire game executed by the gaming machine. In the gaming machine 1 of FIG. 1, the primary game is provided as a slot game though in general, the primary game may be any suitable game, such as a poker game or a roulette game. The secondary game is initiated when a predetermined condition is met while the player is playing the primary game. Whether the predetermined condition is met or not may depend on a result of a primary game or may not depend on the result of the primary game. The secondary game is generally executed in order to provide a bonus to the player and therefore, it may be called “a bonus game”. An award of the secondary game is generally higher than that of the primary game in average. Also, a probability of winning in the secondary game is generally higher than that in the primary game in average. The secondary game may be configured by the same kind of game as the primary game. For example, slot games may be executed both as the primary game and as the secondary game. Alternatively, the secondary game may be configured by a different kind of game from the primary game. For example, the secondary game may be a bingo game and the primary game may be a slot game. Typically, the secondary game is a free game, i.e., executed without receiving a bet from a player.

FIG. 9 describes an overview of the operation of the gaming machine 1. As shown in this figure, the gaming machine 1 first provides a primary game to the player (Step 1). One typical image of the primary game is shown in FIG. 4. Unless a secondary game is triggered, the gaming machine 1 keeps providing the primary games to the player (Steps 1 & 2). Once the secondary game is triggered, the gaming machine 1 executes a process that may change the value of multiplier (Step 3). As is well known in the art, the multiplier is a value that enhances the amount of payout. Specifically, in the case of a slot game, the amount of payout to the player on one winning line can be determined by multiplying a winning amount related to the winning line and the value of multiplier. Typical images of this process are shown in FIGS. 5, 6 and 8. Then, the gaming machine 1 provides a certain number of secondary games (Steps 4 & 5). One typical image of the secondary game is shown in FIG. 7. Once the secondary game is over, the gaming machine 1 resets the value of multiplier to the default value (Step 6). Then, the gaming machine 1 resumes providing the primary game.

In below Examples, there are opportunities that the value of multiplier can be changed between the primary game and the secondary game. This makes the game exciting. In some Examples, the value of multiplier for the secondary game is also changed during the primary game. This change also makes the game exciting.

§2. EXAMPLE 1

In this section, Example 1 is explained, using FIGS. 4-11.

§2.1. Design of Example 1

FIGS. 4-8 are images of the LCD 32 in some occasions of the game in Example 1. FIG. 4 is a basic image of the primary game. As shown in this figure, several types of symbols 36 are arranged on the reels 35. Some of them have specific functions such as a multiplier symbol 362 and a bonus symbol 361. The bonus symbol 361 is a specific type of symbol in this Example and its function is explained later.

Once the player instructs to play a game by pressing the spin button 45, the reels 35 begin to rotate and stop after a while with the symbols 36 arranged in a certain order, for example, like FIG. 4. If the three symbols 36 align on an activated pay line in a certain manner, the player wins and a certain amount of credit is paid back to the player.

In FIG. 4, three multiplier symbols 362 are shown on the reels 35. Each multiplier symbol 362 represents a numeral (“3” in this case). This numeral is the value of multiplier the multiplier symbol 362 owns. The multiplier symbol 362 also functions as a wild symbol, which is compatible with any type of the symbol 36 to constitute a winning line. When the multiplier symbol 362 is incorporated into a winning line, the amount of payout in this winning line is calculated by multiplying the winning amount and the value of multiplier represented in the multiplier symbol 362. For example in FIG. 4, from lower left to upper right, the symbols 36 are aligned as ‘Bonus, Bonus and 3× Multiplier’. This alignment constitutes a winning line because the multiplier symbol 362 functions as a wild symbol. The winning amount of the bonus symbol is, for example, ‘100’ credits. As shown in FIG. 4, the value of multiplier of the multiplier symbol 362 is ‘3’. Therefore, the payout amount from this winning line is ‘100×3=300’ credits. When two multiplier symbols 362 are incorporated into one winning line, the payout amount is calculated by winning amount and each of the multiplier symbols 362. For example in FIG. 4, from upper left to lower right, the symbols 36 are aligned as ‘3× Multiplier, Bonus and 3x Multiplier’. In this case, the payout amount is ‘100×3×3=900’ credits. When there are no multiplier symbols 362 on the winning line like middle left to middle right in FIG. 5, the value of the multiplier is assumed to be ‘1’. If three multiplier symbols 362 align on a winning line, just a specific amount of credit such as ‘1,000’ credits is given to the player as a payout.

The bonus symbol 361 has a specific function, which is a trigger to initiate the secondary game. As shown in FIG. 5, if three trigger symbols 361 align on an activated pay line, the secondary game is triggered. In this Example, the secondary game is basically a free game. The gaming machine 1 doesn't require a bet of credit to the player to rotate the reels 35 in the secondary game. However, the gaming machine 1 asks the player whether he/she pays an extra bet before starting the secondary game as shown in FIG. 5. It should be noted that the “extra bet” used in this specification means a bet paid by the player in addition to the bet paid for playing the primary game.

When the player accepts the offer of the extra bet, he/she pushes the 5 BET button of the BET buttons 43 (see FIG. 1). Then, as shown in FIG. 6, the gaming machine 1 shows a message that the offer of the extra bet was accepted by the player. In this case, the gaming machine 1 sets the value of multiplier in the secondary game as ‘five’, which is larger than the value of multiplier (‘three’ in this Example) in the primary game.

Then, the secondary game begins. During the secondary games, as shown in FIG. 7, the gaming machine 1 keeps showing the message that the actual value of multiplier is ‘five’ in the upper message area 322 with cool fonts and illustrations. In the auxiliary reel area 321, however, the multiplier symbols 362 are still imaged as ‘3×’ because the image in the auxiliary reel area 321 is exactly reflecting the view of the reel window 31. However, the actual value of the multiplier symbol 362 is ‘five’. The reason why the auxiliary reel area 321 keeps showing the image of the multiplier symbol 362 as ‘3×’ is because it is difficult to change the multiplier symbols 362 printed as ‘3×’ on the actual reels 35. The gaming machine 1 is a slot machine and many players love to play the game, watching the actual reels 35 shown in the reel window 31 rather than watching the LCD 32. It is not easy to replace the multiplier symbols 362 printed on the mechanical reels 35 to new multiplier symbols although it is possible that the gaming machine 1 activates the transflective LCD 33 and overwrites the multiplier symbols 362 so as to indicate ‘5×’. However, in this case, the symbols 36 and the overwritten multiplier symbols are not on a same plane. This gives some players odd feeling, losing the beauty of the reels 35 and symbols 36. In addition, some players love to see actual mechanical reels 35 and symbols 36 printed on the reels 35 while playing. The activation of the transflective LCD 33 can disappoint such players. The excellence of the gaming machine 1 in this Example is that it doesn't harm the taste of the mechanical reels 35 and the symbols 36 printed on them. Furthermore, since the reels 35 and symbols 36 in the reel window 31 and the auxiliary reel area 321 are consistent, the display 3 doesn't confuse the player.

During the secondary game, the payout amount is calculated based on the multiplier value ‘five’ when the multiplier symbol 362 is incorporated in a winning line. For example, in FIG. 7, from lower left to upper right, the symbols 36 are aligned as ‘Bonus, 3× Multiplier and Bonus’. The payout amount from this winning line is ‘100×5=500’ credits. Such elevated value of multiplier is kept used until the secondary game ends.

Going back to FIG. 5, when the player declines the offer of the extra bet, he/she pushes the 1 BET button of the BET buttons 43 (see FIG. 1). Then, as shown in FIG. 8, a message that indicates that the player has declined the offer of the extra bet is shown in the upper message area 322. In this case, the gaming machine 1 keeps the value of multiplier in the secondary game as ‘three’, which is the default value of the game. This value is also the value used in the primary game.

After certain times of spinning the reels 35, a set of the secondary games ends. At that time, the value of the multiplier is set back to the default value ‘three’, returning the messages and illustrations to be like FIG. 4. Then, the primary game starts again.

§2.2. Operation of Example 1

Next, the operation of the gaming machine 1 in this Example is explained, using FIGS. 9-11.

Upon starting the game, the below operation premises the fact that the player paid money to the gaming machine 1 and the gaming machine 1 converted the accepted money to a certain amount of credit.

<<<Step 1>>> As shown in FIG. 9, the gaming machine 1 executes the primary game in Step 1 first. As described in FIG. 10a, Step 1 is composed of Steps 11-17.

<Step 11> When the gaming machine 1 receives an input of a bet of credit from the player, the operation proceeds to Step 12. This input is composed of pressing the following two buttons by the player: 1) one of the BET buttons 43 or MAX BET button 41 and 2) one of the LINE buttons 44. Unless the player bets a credit, the operation stalls at this Step.

<Step 12> When the gaming machine 1 receives an instruction to spin the reels 35 from the player, the operation proceeds to Step 13. This instruction is done by pressing the SPIN button 45 by the player. Unless the player pushes the SPIN button 45, the operation stalls at this Step.

<Step 13> Once the SPIN button 45 is pressed, the gaming machine 1 generates random numbers that are used to determine which symbols 36 show up in the reel window 31. At this stage, the image on the LCD 32 may be like FIG. 4.

<Step 14> Then, the gaming machine 1 rotates the reels 35.

<Step 15> After a while, the gaming machine 1 stops the reels 35 based on the random numbers generated at Step 13 so that certain symbols 36 come in the reel window 31.

<Step 16> The gaming machine 1 calculates the amount of payout based on the symbols 36 aligned on the winning lines, more exactly speaking based on the random numbers generated at Step 13.

<Step 17> Then, the gaming machine 1 returns the calculated amount of payout to the player as a credit if the amount of payout is not zero.

<<<Step 2>>> As shown in FIG. 9, the gaming machine 1 executes Step 2. The gaming machine 1 determines whether the secondary game is triggered. In other words, the gaming machine 1 determines whether the three bonus symbols 36 align on a winning line. More exactly speaking, the gaming machine 1 determines whether the secondary game is triggered based on the random numbers generated at Step 13. If the secondary game is triggered, the operation proceeds to Step 3. Otherwise, the gaming machine 1 repeats Step 1.

<<<Step 3>>> Before initiating the secondary game, the gaming machine 1 executes Step 3, at which the gaming machine 1 may elevate the value of multiplier based on the player's choice. As described in FIG. 11, Step 3 is composed of Steps 31a-38a.

<Step 31a> The gaming machine 1 offers the player a choice of an extra bet, showing the message on the LCD 32 like FIG. 5.

<Step 32a> Then, the gaming machine 1 receives an input from the player about the decision for the offer, which is done by the player by pressing the 1 BET button or 5 BET button of the BET buttons 43.

<Step 33a> If the gaming machine 1 receives an input of accepting the extra bet, the operation proceeds to Step 34a. If the gaming machine 1 receives an input of declining the extra bet, the operation jumps to Step 38a.

<Step 34a> If the amount of player's credit left is less than the amount of the extra bet, the operation goes back to Step 31a. Otherwise the operation proceeds to step 35a. Alternatively, it is possible to determine whether the amount of the player's remaining credit is less than the amount of extra bet required for changing the value of multiplier before Step 3, and the operation proceeds to Step 3 only when the amount of the player's credit is not less than the required amount of extra bet, and otherwise skips Step 3 and directly proceeds to Step 4.

<Step 35a> The gaming machine 1 shows the message on the LCD 32 that the player accepted the offer of the extra bet and the player paid the credit of the extra bet like FIG. 6.

<Step 36a> The gaming machine 1 changes the value of multiplier to calculate the amounts of payouts. The gaming machine 1 also withdraws the amount of the extra bet from the player's credit.

<Step 37a> The gaming machine 1 shows the current value of multiplier on the LCD 32 like FIG. 7. Then, the operation terminates Step 3 and moves to Step 4.

<Step 38a> The gaming machine 1 shows the message on the LCD 32 that the player declined the offer of the extra bet like FIG. 8.

<<<Step 4>>> As shown in FIG. 9, the gaming machine 1 executes the secondary game in Step 4. As described in FIG. 10b, Step 4 is composed of Steps 41-45.

<Step 41> The gaming machine 1 generates random numbers as described in Step 13.

<Step 42> Then, the gaming machine 1 rotates the reels 35 without player's bet and without player's instruction to spin.

<Step 43> After a while, the gaming machine 1 stops the reels 35 as described in Step 15. Then, the image on the LCD 32 may be like FIG. 7.

<Step 44> The gaming machine 1 calculates the amount of payout as described in Step 16. To do this, the gaming machine 1 uses the value of multiplier set at Step 36a if the player paid the extra bet at Step 32a.

<Step 45> The gaming machine 1 returns the calculated amount of payout to the player as a credit if the amount of payout is not zero.

<<<Step 5>>> As shown in FIG. 9, the gaming machine 1 executes Step 5. The gaming machine 1 determines whether the secondary games are over. More exactly speaking, the gaming machine 1 determines whether the predetermined number of the secondary games has been run already. If the secondary games are not over, the gaming machine 1 repeats Step 4. If the gaming machine 1 has already run the predetermined number of the secondary games, the operation proceeds to Step 6.

<<<Step 6>>> The gaming machine 1 resets the value of multiplier to the default value, which is three. Also, the gaming machine 1 erases the message about the changed value of multiplier in the LCD 32. More exactly speaking, the gaming machine 1 turns the messages and illustrations in the upper message area 322 back to those as shown in FIG. 4. Then, the operation goes back to Step 1. In other words, the gaming machine 1 starts the primary game again.

§2.3. Advantage of Example 1

In this Example, the gaming machine 1 displayed a choice for acceptance or decline of an extra bet, which is one type of a bet of credit, to the player in the upper message area 322. This provides a choice to take a risk to the player because the extra bet is a kind of risk in that a big credit payment for the extra bet may or may not bring a big award. However, the player can decide whether he/she accepts it by him/herself. This choice affects the volatility of the secondary game. In other words, the player can control the volatility of the secondary game. Therefore, it is possible that the gaming machine 1 in this Example can fulfill desires of a broad range of players, some of whom prefer high-volatility game and some of whom prefer moderate-volatility game. Thus, the gaming machine 1 can attract a broad range of players.

In this Example, the player pressed one of the BET buttons 43 to accept or decline betting the extra bet. In other words, the gaming machine 1 received the instruction about the acceptance or decline of the extra bet from the player through one of the BET buttons 43. Such arrangement enables to carry out this Example even in the gaming machine 1 in which the touch panel 5 is not installed. This makes it possible to carry out the present invention even in the old-type slot machines.

Furthermore, in this Example, when the value of multiplier was different from the default value of multiplier in the secondary game, the value of multiplier was shown on the display 3 in a different area where the reels 35 and symbols 36 were shown. This design makes it easy to carry out the present invention even when the gaming machine 1 is a slot machine lacking an advanced device such as a transflective LCD 33. This enables to carry out the present invention even in the old-type slot machines, providing an excellent opportunity to run a wonderful slot game brought by the present invention.

In this Example, the gaming machine 1 accepted the extra bet after the primary game. This arrangement gives the player a chance to bet a credit to increase the value of multiplier in the basically free bonus game, which is a risk to the player. However, this risk enhances the volatility of the game.

In this Example, the gaming machine 1 offered a choice of an extra bet, which was a bet of credit, before starting the secondary game to increase the value of multiplier. Such offer increases the player's choice, making the game more fun.

In this Example, the value of multiplier for the secondary game was changed when the gaming machine 1 accepted the extra bet. This arrangement makes the player expect to obtain a bigger award in the secondary game. This makes the game more exciting.

Furthermore, in this Example, the value of multiplier was set larger than the default value of multiplier in the secondary game when the gaming machine 1 accepted an input of an extra bet from the player before starting the secondary game. This setting provides the player an opportunity to win a larger amount of payout. This would enhance the player's motivation to play the game provided by the gaming machine 1.

In this Example, the default value of multiplier in the secondary game was a value of multiplier in the primary game. Such design makes it easy for the player to understand the regular value of multiplier. Thus, the player can also easily understand when the volatility of the game is enhanced. Therefore, this makes it easy for the player to understand the game.

Furthermore, in this Example, the multiplier symbol 362 indicated a numeral, which was the default value of multiplier. Such design enables the player to readily calculate how much he/she would win, making the game clearer.

In this Example, the secondary game was a free game when the player didn't pay the extra bet, in other words, when the value of multiplier was a default value in the secondary game. This provides the player chances to earn a lot. Therefore, this design makes the game more fun.

§3. EXAMPLE 2

In this section, Example 2 is explained, using FIGS. 12-14. Below, only the things that are different from the things in Example 1 are explained and the same explanations are omitted.

§3.1. Design of Example 2

As shown in FIG. 12, in this Example, the gaming machine 1 offers multiple choices of extra bets when the secondary game is triggered.

When the player bets the extra bet of 1000 credits, he/she pushes the 5 BET button of the BET buttons 43. Likewise, when the player bets the extra bet of 500 credits, he/she pushes the 4 BET button. When the player doesn't bet the extra bet, he/she pushes the 3 BET button. Furthermore, the touch panel 5 is activated in this Example. Thus, the player can touch the area 51, 52 or 53 instead of pressing the 3 BET button, 4 BET button or 5 BET button.

After the player chooses the multiplier value ‘four’ for example by touching the area 52, the gaming machine 1 sets the value of multiplier in the secondary game as ‘four’. During the secondary games, as shown in FIG. 13, the gaming machine 1 keeps showing the messages that the actual value of multiplier is ‘four’. Furthermore, the gaming machine 1 activates the transflective LCD 33 and overwrites the multiplier symbols 362 in the reel window 31 to be ‘4×’. That's why in the auxiliary reel area 321 in FIG. 13, the multiplier symbol 363, which indicates ‘4×’, appears instead of the multiplier symbol 362 indicating ‘3×’ because the auxiliary reel area 321 exactly reflects the appearance of the reel window 31. Likewise, when the player chooses the multiplier value ‘five’, the gaming machine 1 sets the value of multiplier in the secondary game as ‘five’ and shows the value of multiplier ‘5×’ in the upper message area 322. Also the gaming machine 1 overwrites the multiplier symbol 362 indicating ‘3×’ to indicate ‘5×’ in the reel window 31 and reflects this in the auxiliary reel area 321. When the player chooses the multiplier value ‘three’, the gaming machine 1 shows the display image like FIG. 4.

§3.2. Operation of Example 2

Below, only the operations that are different from those in Example 1 are described, using FIGS. 9 & 14.

<<<Steps 1 & 2>>> The same as Steps 1 & 2 in Example 1.

<<<Step 3>>> As described in FIG. 14b, Step 3 is composed of Steps 31b-37b.

<Step 31b> The gaming machine 1 offers the player multiple choices of extra bets, showing the message on the LCD 32 like FIG. 12.

<Step 32b> The gaming machine 1 receives the input from the player about the player's decision for the offer.

<Step 33b> If the amount of player's credit left is less than the amount of the extra bet the player chose, the operation goes back to Step 31b. Otherwise the operation proceeds to step 34b. Alternatively, it is possible to determine whether the amount of player's credit left is less than the minimum amount of extra bet (e.g., 500 credits in the example of FIG. 12) required for changing the value of multiplier before Step 3, and the operation proceeds to Step 3 only if the amount of the player's credit left is not less than the minimum amount of extra bet and jumps directly to Step 4 if not.

<Step 34b> If the gaming machine 1 receives an input of 1000 credits of the extra bet, the operation proceeds to Step 36.1b. If the gaming machine 1 receives an input of 500 credits of the extra bet, the operation proceeds to Step 36.2b. If the gaming machine 1 receives an input of 0 credit of the extra bet, the operation terminates Step 3 and initiates Step 4.

<Step 36.1b> The gaming machine 1 changes the value of multiplier to be ‘five’. The gaming machine 1 also withdraws the amount of the extra bet, 1000 credits, from the player's credit. Then, the operation moves to Step 37b.

<Step 36.2b> The gaming machine 1 changes the value of multiplier to be four. The gaming machine 1 also withdraws the amount of the extra bet, 500 credits, from the player's credit.

<Step 37b> The gaming machine 1 shows the current value of multiplier on the LCD 32 like FIG. 13.

<<<Steps 4-6>>> The same as Steps 4-6 in Example 1 except Step 43.1 is executed between Steps 43 and 44 as described in FIG. 14a.

<Step 43.1> When the value of multiplier is different from the default value and the multiplier symbol 362 appears in the reel window 31, the gaming machine 1 controls the transflective LCD 33 and overwrites the multiplier symbol 362 to indicate the actual value of the multiplier immediately after the reels 35 stop. Also, the gaming machine 1 shows the reflected image of the reel window 31 in the LCD 32. Thus, the image on the LCD 32 may be like FIG. 13.

§3.3. Advantage of Example 2

In this Example, the gaming machine 1 offered a selection of plural different amounts of the extra bet. Then, the gaming machine 1 set the value of multiplier used in the secondary game based on the amount of the extra bet selected by the player. This arrangement provides the player a choice of plural degrees of risks from a low risk to a high risk. Such arrangement can fulfill the desire of diverse players, some of whom don't want to take a risk and some of whom want to take a high risk to acquire a big award.

In this Example, the player could select the offered choice of multiplier by touching a certain area in the touch panel 5. The touch panel 5 enables the player more easily and intuitively to tell their decision to the gaming machine 1.

In this Example, the transflective LCD 33 modified the multiplier symbols 362 printed on the reel 35 by superimposing the multiplier symbols 363 thereon. Such arrangement makes it easier for the player to get the current value of multiplier. Furthermore, the modified value of the multiplier was reflected to the image in the LCD 32. Such organization of the LCD 32 and the transflective LCD 33 coordinately makes it easier for the player to understand the current value of multiplier.

§4. EXAMPLE 3

In this section, Example 3 is explained, using FIGS. 15-19. Below, only the things that are different from the things in Examples 1 and 2 are explained and the same explanations are omitted.

§4.1. Design of Example 3

In this Example, the gaming machine 1 first changes the value of multiplier based on the bet amount in the primary game. Then, the gaming machine 1 further enhances the value of multiplier when it accepts an additional bet from the player. In below explanation, the design when a large amount is bet in the primary game is explained first. Then, the design when a small amount is bet in the primary game is explained second.

The Design When a Large Amount is Bet in the Primary Game

FIG. 15 is an example of a display image of the primary game that triggered the secondary game. When the player bets a large amount in the primary game, the gaming machine 1 increases the value of multiplier for the secondary game. In this Example, when the player bets four or five credits per line by pressing the 4 BET button or 5 BET button of the BET buttons 43 (see FIG. 1) to spin the reels 35 in the primary game, the gaming machine 1 increases the value of multiplier for the secondary game from the default value ‘three’ to be ‘four’. That's why as shown in FIG. 15, the gaming machine 1 notifies this to the player, showing a message that the actual value of multiplier is ‘four’ in the upper message area 322. Then, as shown from FIGS. 15 to 16, the gaming machine 1 changes the multiplier symbol 362, which shows ‘3×’, into a multiplier symbol 363, which shows ‘4×’. Of course, the printed multiplier symbol 362 in the reel window 31 is also overwritten to be the multiplier symbol 363 by the transflective LCD 33.

After changing the value of multiplier, the gaming machine 1 offers the player a choice of an additional bet, which is a bet of credit, as shown in FIG. 16. When the player accepts the offer of the additional bet, he/she touches the area 55 or pushes the 5 BET button of the BET buttons 43 (see FIG. 1). Then, the gaming machine 1 sets the value of multiplier in the secondary game as ‘six’. During the secondary games, as shown in FIG. 17, the gaming machine 1 keeps showing the message that the value of multiplier is ‘six’ in the upper message area 322. In the auxiliary reel area 321, the multiplier symbol 362 is replaced by the multiplier symbol 364 that shows ‘6×’. Of course, the printed multiplier symbol 362 in the reel window 31 is also overwritten to be the multiplier symbol 364 by the transflective LCD 33. During the secondary game, the payout amount is calculated based on the multiplier value ‘six’.

Going back to FIG. 16, when the player declines the offer of the additional bet, he/she touches the area 54 or pushes the 1 BET button. Then, the gaming machine 1 keeps setting the value of multiplier in the secondary game as ‘four’. During the secondary games, as shown in FIG. 18, the gaming machine 1 keeps showing the message that the value of multiplier is ‘four’ in the upper message area 322. In the auxiliary reel area 321, the multiplier symbol 362 is replaced by the multiplier symbol 363 that shows ‘4×’. Of course, the printed multiplier symbol 362 in the reel window 31 is also overwritten to be the multiplier symbol 363 by the transflective LCD 33. During the secondary game, the payout amount is calculated based on the multiplier value ‘four’.

The Design When a Small Amount is Bet in the Primary Game

Going back to the primary game, when the player bets a small amount, the gaming machine 1 doesn't increase the value of multiplier. In this Example, when the player bets one, two or three credits per line by pressing the 1 BET button, 2 BET button or 3 BET button to spin the reels 35 in the primary game, the gaming machine 1 doesn't elevate the value of multiplier when the secondary game is triggered.

Then, the gaming machine 1 offers the player a choice of an additional bet. The image of the LCD 32 for this process is similar to that in FIG. 5. If the player accepts the offer of the additional bet, the gaming machine 1 sets the value of multiplier as ‘five’ and shows messages similar to those shown in FIG. 6. During the secondary games, the gaming machine 1 keeps showing the messages similar to those in FIG. 7. However, one big difference from the example in FIG. 7 is in the auxiliary reel area 321, that is, the multiplier symbol 362 is replaced by the multiplier symbol that shows ‘5×’ although not shown in this figure. Of course, the printed multiplier symbol 362 in the reel window 31 is also overwritten to be the multiplier symbol that shows ‘5×’ by the transflective LCD 33. During the secondary game, the payout amount is calculated based on the multiplier value ‘five’.

When the player declines the offer of the additional bet, the message similar to FIG. 8 is shown in the LCD 32. In this case, the gaming machine 1 keeps the value of multiplier in the secondary game as ‘three’.

§4.2. Operation of Example 3

Below, only the operations that are different from those in Examples 1 and 2 are described, using FIGS. 9 & 19.

<<<Steps 1 & 2>>> The same as Steps 1 & 2 in Example 1 except Step 11.1 is executed between Steps 11 and 12 as described in FIG. 19a.

<Step 11.1> The gaming machine 1 changes the value of multiplier used for the secondary game based on the bet amount received at Step 11. More exactly speaking, the gaming machine 1 sets the value of multiplier based on the BET buttons 43 pressed. At this stage, this value is internally kept in the gaming machine 1 in the memory 22 (see FIG. 2). Thus, the player doesn't know the value of multiplier used in the secondary game at this stage. When the secondary game is triggered, this value is used at Step 3. If the secondary game is not triggered, this value is overwritten in the next cycle of Step 1. Thus, the value of multiplier for the secondary game is kept overwritten by the multiplier value corresponding to the latest bet amount in the primary game while the primary game is repeated.

<<<Step 3>>> At this step, the gaming machine 1 may elevate the value of multiplier twice from the player's viewpoint. As described in FIG. 19b, Step 3 is composed of Steps 30.1c-38c.

<Step 30.1c> The gaming machine 1 determines whether the value of multiplier set at Step 11.1 is same value as the default value of multiplier. If the value of multiplier is different from the default value, the operation proceeds to Step 30.2c. Otherwise, the operation jumps to Step 31c.

<Step 30.2c> The gaming machine 1 shows the current value of multiplier in the LCD 32 like FIG. 15. The gaming machine 1 also controls the transflective LCD 33 and overwrites the multiplier symbol 362 in the reel window 31 to be the multiplier symbol 363. Furthermore, the gaming machine 1 shows the reel image corresponding to the reel window 31 in the auxiliary reel area 321 like FIG. 16.

<Steps 31c-38c> Substantially the same as Steps 31a-38a in Example 1 except the ‘extra bet’ in Example 1 should be read as the ‘additional bet’ in this Example.

<<<Steps 4-6>>> The same as Steps 4-6 in Example 2.

§4.3. Advantage of Example 3

In this Example, the gaming machine 1 set the value of multiplier used in the secondary game based on the bet amount in a game that triggered the secondary game. Such arrangement makes it easier for the player to understand the relation of his/her bet amount and the value of multiplier. Furthermore, this may encourage the player to bet a larger amount, expecting a bigger award.

In this Example, the gaming machine 1 set the value of multiplier used for the secondary game based on the bet amount in the primary game. Furthermore, when the controller accepted an additional bet, which is a bet of credit, before starting the secondary game, the gaming machine 1 further increased the value of multiplier in the secondary game. Such arrangement can further fulfill the desire of some players who prefer a highly volatile game. Of course, the player can decline the offer of the additional bet. Thus, the gaming machine 1 can also fulfill the desire of some players who don't prefer highly volatile game. Accordingly, the gaming machine 1 in this Example is capable of satisfying diverse players who have wide range of preferences.

§4.4. Miscellaneous Remarks

In this Example, the gaming machine 1 changed the value of multiplier based on the bet amount per line. However, it is acceptable even if the gaming machine 1 changes the value of multiplier based on the total amount of bet per game.

In this Example, the gaming machine 1 set the value of multiplier used in the secondary game based on the bet amount in the primary game that triggered the secondary game. However, it is acceptable even if the gaming machine 1 doesn't change the value of multiplier based on the last game of the primary game. For example, it is acceptable even if the gaming machine 1 changes the value of multiplier based on the average bet amount in recent five games or total bet amount in recent ten games.

§5. EXAMPLE 4

In this section, Example 4 is explained, using FIGS. 20-22. Below, only the things that are different from the things in Examples 1 and 2 are explained and the same explanations are omitted.

§5.1. Design of Example 4

In this Example, the condition to trigger the secondary game is slightly different from that in previous Examples. In previous Examples, the secondary game was triggered when three bonus symbols 361, which are a specific type of symbol, constituted the winning line. In this Example, however, the secondary game is triggered when three or more bonus symbols 361 just show up in the reel window 31 even without constituting a winning line.

Once the secondary game is triggered, the gaming machine 1 offers a choice of extra bet before starting the secondary game as previous Examples. In this example, however, the value of multiplier the gaming machine 1 offers to the player is different based on the number of bonus symbols 361 which appeared in the reel window 31 in the game that triggered the secondary game although the amount of extra bet required to the player is same. In FIG. 20, the four bonus symbols 361 show up in the display 3. Therefore, the gaming machine 1 notifies the player that the value of multiplier will become ‘six’ if the player pays the extra bet, showing such message in the upper message area 322. When the player accepts the offer of the extra bet, the value of multiplier for the secondary game is set ‘six’ and the payout amount is calculated based on this multiplier value during the secondary game. When the player declines the offer of the extra bet, the value of multiplier remains ‘three’, which is the default value of multiplier.

Likewise, when the three bonus symbols 361 show up in the reel window 31, the gaming machine 1 offers the value of multiplier ‘five’ like FIG. 5. When the five bonus symbols 361 show up, the gaming machine 1 offers the value of multiplier ‘seven’. When more than five bonus symbols 361 show up, the gaming machine 1 offers the value of multiplier ‘eight’.

In this Example, the touch panel 5 is activated like Example 2. Thus, the player can accept the offer of the extra bet by touching the area 55 or pressing the 5 BET button. Likewise, the player can decline the offer of the extra bet by touching the area 54 or pressing the 1 BET button.

§5.2. Operation of Example 4

Below, only the operations that are different from those in Examples 1 and 2 are described, using FIGS. 9 & 21.

<<<Step 1>>> Basically the same as Step 1 in Example 1 except Step 13.1 is executed between Steps 13 and 14 as described in FIG. 21.

<Step 13> As described in Example 1, the gaming machine 1 generates random numbers that are used to determine which symbols 36 show up in the reel window 31. These random numbers also determine the number of bonus symbols 361 that show up in the reel window 31 at Step 15. This number is used at next step.

<Step 13.1> Based on the number of bonus symbols 361 that show up in the reel window 31 at Step 15, the gaming machine 1 may change the value of multiplier that is offered to the player at Step 3. More exactly speaking, based on the random numbers generated at Step 13, the gaming machine 1 may change the value of multiplier that is offered to the player at Step 31a. At this stage, this value is internally kept in the gaming machine 1 in the memory 22 (see FIG. 2). Thus, at this stage the player doesn't know the value of multiplier offered for the secondary game. When the secondary game is not triggered, this value is overwritten in the next cycle of Step 1. Thus, the value of multiplier for the secondary game is kept overwritten by the multiplier value determined by the latest random numbers generated at Step 13 while the primary game is repeated.

<<<Step 2>>> The gaming machine 1 determines whether the secondary game is triggered. In other words, the gaming machine 1 determines whether at least three bonus symbols 361 appear in the reel window 31. More exactly speaking, the gaming machine 1 determines whether the secondary game is triggered based on the random numbers generated at Step 13. If the secondary game is triggered, the operation proceeds to Step 3. Otherwise, the gaming machine 1 repeats Step 1.

<<<Steps 3>>> Basically the same as Step 3 in Examples 1 and 2 except Step 31a (see FIG. 11).

<Step 31a> The gaming machine 1 offers the player a choice of an extra bet. At this step, the value of the multiplier offered to the player is the value of multiplier determined at Step 13.1. Therefore, the message shown to the player may be like FIG. 20 or FIG. 5 or anything else based on the value of multiplier kept in the memory 22.

<<<Steps 4-6>>> Substantially the same as Steps 4-6 in Example 2.

§5.3. Advantage of Example 4

In this Example, the gaming machine 1 changed the value of multiplier offered to the player based on the number of bonus symbols 361 shown in the display 3 in the primary game. Such arrangement sometimes provides the player a chance to win a large award in the secondary game. Therefore, the game becomes more fun and exciting.

Furthermore, in this Example, the value of multiplier offered to the player was changed based on the number of the symbols 36 that triggered the secondary game, which was the number of the bonus symbols 361 in the illustrated embodiment. Such design allows the player to expect to win a big award just when the player sees a large number of the bonus symbols 361 in the primary game. In addition, this design is easy for the player to understand the reason of the elevated multiplier value offered to the player. Once the player sees such a large value, he/she may willingly keep playing the game until he/she sees a large number of the bonus symbols 361 again.

Of course, the player can decline the offer of the extra bet. Thus, the player can avoid the game being more volatile. In other words, the player can choose whether the secondary game becomes highly volatile or not. Therefore, the gaming machine 1 in this Example can satisfy various players who have diverse desires.

§5.4. Variation of Example 4

FIG. 22 illustrates Variation of Example 4. in this Variation, the condition to trigger the secondary game is the same as in Example 1. Unlike Example 1, however, the gaming machine 1 changes the value of multiplier offered to the player based on the type of symbols 36 which appeared in the game that triggered the secondary game. As shown in FIG. 22, the reels 35 have a special bonus symbol 365, which is another kind of a specific type of symbol. The special bonus symbol 365 is compatible with the bonus symbol 361 to form a winning line and to trigger the secondary game. However, when the special bonus symbol 365 is incorporated into a winning line, a larger amount of payout (such as 200 credits) is paid to the player than when only the bonus symbols 361 are incorporated into the winning line. Furthermore, the value of multiplier the gaming machine 1 offers to the player with the extra bet becomes larger. In FIG. 22, since the special bonus symbol 365 is incorporated into the winning line, the gaming machine 1 offers a multiplier value ‘six’. If the secondary game is triggered but the special bonus symbol 365 is not incorporated into the winning line, the gaming machine 1 offers the value of multiplier ‘five’ like FIG. 5.

In this Variation, the value of multiplier offered to the player was changed based on types of the specific type of symbols (the bonus symbol 361 or the special bonus symbol 365) shown in the reel window 31. When the player sees the special bonus symbol 365 incorporated into the winning line, he/she would be delighted, expecting to win a big award. Therefore, the design of this Variation makes the game more fun.

The operations of this Variation are substantially the same as those of the basic form of Example 4 though Step 2 is the same as that in Example 1. Thus, an explanation of the operation of this variation is skipped.

§5.5. Miscellaneous Remarks

In this Example, the amount of extra bet the gaming machine 1 offered to the player was constant even though the value of multiplier offered to the player for the secondary game varied based on the number of bonus symbols 361 or the incorporation of the special bonus symbol 365. However, it is acceptable even if the gaming machine 1 offers different amounts of extra bets based on the number of bonus symbols 361 or the presence of the special bonus symbol 365.

In this Example, the bonus symbol 361 and the special bonus symbol 365 were specific types of symbols that affected the value of multiplier offered for the secondary game. However, it is acceptable even if symbols other than these symbols are the specific type of symbol. For example, it is acceptable even if a ‘BAR’, ‘7’ or even multiplier symbol is the specific type of symbol.

§6. EXAMPLE 5

In this section, Example 5 is explained, using FIGS. 23-25. Below, only the things that are different from the things in Examples 1 and 3 are explained and the same explanations are omitted.

§6.1. Design of Example 5

In this Example, after the secondary game is triggered, the gaming machine 1 first changes the value of multiplier at random. Then, the gaming machine 1 further enhances the value of multiplier when it accepts an additional bet from the player.

FIG. 23 is an example of a display image after the primary game that triggered the secondary game. As shown in this figure, the value of multiplier is first changed to be ‘six’ and the gaming machine 1 notifies this to the player. The value ‘six’ is randomly determined by the gaming machine 1. Therefore, there is a possibility that the value of multiplier remains ‘three’ or changes into ‘four’ or ‘five’.

After changing the value of multiplier, as shown in FIG. 24, the gaming machine 1 offers the player a choice of an additional bet. If the player accepts the offer of the additional bet, the gaming machine 1 further elevates the value of multiplier and sets it as ‘ten’ by adding the value ‘four’ to the value of multiplier randomly determined. The gaming machine 1 notifies the enhanced value of multiplier in a similar way as shown FIG. 17. If the player declines the offer of the additional bet, the gaming machine 1 remains the value of multiplier ‘six’ but it is still larger than the default value of multiplier. The gaming machine 1 notifies this value of multiplier in a similar way as shown in FIG. 18.

§6.2. Operation of Example 5

Below, only the operations that are different from those in Examples 1 and 3 are described, using FIGS. 9 & 25.

<<<Steps 1 & 2>>> Same as Steps 1 & 2 in Example 1.

<<<Step 3>>> At this step, the gaming machine 1 may elevate the value of multiplier twice from the player's viewpoint. As described in FIG. 25, Step 3 is composed of Steps 30.01d-38d.

<Step 30.01d> Once the secondary game is triggered, the gaming machine 1 generates a random number.

<Step 30.02d> Based on this random number, the gaming machine 1 sets the value of multiplier.

<Step 30.1d> The gaming machine 1 determines whether the value of multiplier set at the previous step is different from the default value of multiplier. If the value is different, the operation proceeds to Step 30.2d. Otherwise, the operation jumps to Step 31d.

<Step 30.2d> The gaming machine 1 shows the current value of multiplier on the LCD 32 like FIG. 23.

<Steps 31d-38d> The same as Steps 31c-38c in Example 3.

<<<Steps 4-6>>> The same as Steps 4-6 in Example 3.

Alternatively, the gaming machine 1 can set the value of multiplier at Step 1 like Example 3. In this case, the gaming machine 1 can run Step 1 similar to Step 1 as shown in FIG. 19a. More specifically speaking, the gaming machine 1 determines the value of multiplier for the secondary game at Step 13 instead of Step 30.01d in FIG. 25. Then, the gaming machine 1 keeps this value in the memory 22 until the secondary game is triggered. In this case, the gaming machine 1 can initiate Step 3 from Step 30.1d.

§6.3. Advantage of Example 5

In this Example, the gaming machine 1 first set the value of multiplier used for the secondary game at random. Such change is unpredictable to the player, providing the player unexpected excitement. Furthermore, the player doesn't have to pay the bet for this elevation. This gives the player a chance to win a big award without paying a credit, in other words, without taking a risk.

After that, the gaming machine 1 offered a choice for acceptance or decline of the additional bet to the player before starting the secondary game. This design provides the player a chance to win a larger award. However, the player has to take a risk because the additional bet is not free. Such risk increases the volatility of the secondary game. But, the player can also decline the offer of the additional bet. This enables the player to avoid a very high risk though the volatility of the game is suppressed in some degree. Although the player can't control the first value of multiplier randomly set, he/she can control the second chance to increase the multiplier. Thus, in this Example, the volatility and the controllability of the game are well balanced.

In this Example, the gaming machine 1 first set the value of multiplier used for the secondary game randomly before starting the secondary game. Such operation prevents the player from taking a risk, making the game less risky for the player at some degree.

§7. EXAMPLE 6

In this section, Example 6 is explained, using FIGS. 26-27. Below, only the things that are different from the things in Examples 1, 4 and 5 are explained and the same explanations are omitted.

§7.1. Design of Example 6

Like Example 1, once the secondary game is triggered, the gaming machine 1 offers a choice of an extra bet to the player before starting the secondary game. In this example, however, the value of multiplier the gaming machine 1 offers to the player is determined at random although the amount of extra bet required to the player is same. In FIG. 26, the gaming machine 1 offers an extra bet which brings the value of multiplier used in the secondary game to be ‘ten’. This value ‘ten’ is just determined at random by the gaming machine 1. Therefore, there is a possibility that the value of multiplier offered to the player changes into ‘four’ or ‘six’.

When the player accepts the offer of the extra bet, the value of multiplier for the secondary game is set ‘ten’ and the payout amount is calculated based on this multiplier value during the secondary game. When the player declines the offer of the extra bet, the value of multiplier remains ‘three’, which is the default value of multiplier.

§7.2. Operation of Example 6

Below, only the operations that are different from those in Examples 1, 4 and 5 are described, using FIGS. 9 & 27.

<<<Steps 1 & 2>>> The same as Steps 1 & 2 in Example 1.

<<<Steps 3>>> Basically the same as Step 3 in Example 1 except Steps 30.1e and 30.2e are executed before Step 31e.

<Step 30.1e> The gaming machine 1 generates a random number.

<Step 30.2e> Based on the random number generated at previous Step, the gaming machine 1 determines the value of multiplier to offer to the player at next Step.

<Step 31e> The gaming machine 1 offers the player a choice of an extra bet. The message shown to the player may be like FIG. 26, FIG. 5 or anything else based on the value of multiplier determined at previous Step.

<Steps 32e-38e> Substantially the same as Steps 32a-38a in Example 1 except the gaming machine 1 accepts the player's decision not only through the BET buttons 43 but also through the touch panel 5.

<Steps 4-6>>> Substantially the same as Steps 4-6 in Example 4.

§7.3. Advantage of Example 6

In this Example, the gaming machine 1 changed the value of multiplier offered to the player at random. Such arrangement enhances the volatility of the game, sometimes providing a chance to win a huge award. In addition, the player can decline such offer. Therefore, the player can judge whether he/she accepts the extra bet, comparing the amount of extra bet and the value of multiplier. Therefore, the game in this Example is not only attractive to diverse players but also tactical.

§8. MISCELLANEOUS REMARKS

Until the previous section, the present invention has been described based on the specific Examples. However, this invention is not limited to the above Examples. Below are several examples of various modifications that are still within the scope of this invention.

In the above Examples, the offer of the extra bet or additional bet was displayed on the display 3. However, it is OK even if the gaming machine shows such message in other place.

In the above Examples, ‘a bet of a credit’ offered to the player before the secondary game was an ‘extra bet’ or an ‘additional bet’. However, the ‘bet of credit’ is not limited to these two bets. It is acceptable that the gaming machine accepts any types of a ‘bet of credit’ before the secondary game to change the value of multiplier.

In the above Examples, the amounts of extra bet or additional bet was a predetermined amount of credit. However, it is acceptable even if such amount is changed during the game. For example, it is acceptable even if the gaming machine 1 determines the amounts of extra bet or additional bet at random.

In the above Examples, the secondary game was a free game when the value of multiplier was a default value. However, it is acceptable even if the secondary game is not a free game.

In the above Examples, the values of multiplier for the secondary game were changed to be ‘four’, ‘five’, ‘six’ or ‘ten’ from the default value of multiplier. Such values are not limited to these values. However, it is recommended that the value of multiplier after changing be within ten times of a default value of multiplier. According to the inventor's calculation, if the value of multiplier is over this range, the frequency in which the multiplier symbol 362 shows up in the secondary game has to be set too low to maintain a certain payout rate. To have the players keep playing without making them bored, it is desirable to set the value of multiplier within such range. Furthermore, if the value of multiplier is kept within such range, it is easier to set game parameters to fulfill the US regulation.

In the above Examples, the gaming machine 1 had three reels 35 and three symbols 36 per reel 35 in the display 3. However, the organizations of the reels and symbols are not limited to the above Examples. For example, it is acceptable to have five reels or five symbols per reel in the display 3.

In the above Examples, the transflective LCD 31 was used as an overlay panel that modifies the symbols 36 in the display 3. However, such device is not limited to the transflective LCD 31. It is acceptable to modify the symbols 36 on the reels 35 by any other devices such as outer reel. For example, it is acceptable that transparent outer reels have multiplier symbols printed as ‘4×’ and ‘5×’ somewhere on them and when necessary, these multiplier symbols position at an appropriate place so that they mask the multiplier symbol 362.

In the above Examples, the controller 2 is designed to control the gaming machine 1 by the mechanism that the internal CPU 21 runs the programs stored in the memory 22. However, the architecture of the controller 2 is not limited to this organization. For example, it is acceptable even if the controller 2 doesn't have a CPU 21 nor memory 22. It is acceptable even if the controller is made of other type of electrical devices, mechanical devices or combination of them.

In the above Examples, the reels 35 in the gaming machine 1 were mechanical reels. However, it is acceptable even if the reels 35 are imaginary or virtual reels generated by a computer on a screen.

In the end, the present invention was explained based on the slot machine Examples. However, this invention is also applicable to video slots, pachisuro and any other gaming machines so long as a multiplier may be used in calculating an award paid out to the player.

Claims

1. A gaming machine comprising:

a controller, which accepts a bet of credit and returns a certain amount of credit as a payout determined by multiplying a winning amount and a certain value of multiplier, and which runs a primary game and a secondary game;

wherein the value of multiplier is set larger than a default value of multiplier in the secondary game when the controller accepts a bet of credit before starting the secondary game.

2. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the value of multiplier is set larger than the default value of multiplier in the secondary game when the controller accepts the bet of credit before starting the secondary game and after the primary game.

3. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the secondary game is a free game when the value of multiplier is a default value.

4. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the bet of credit before starting the secondary game is an extra bet to increase the value of multiplier.

5. The gaming machine according to claim 4, further comprising:

a display;

wherein the controller displays a choice for acceptance or decline of the extra bet to a player on the display,

and wherein the controller sets the value of multiplier used in the secondary game based on the player's choice.

6. The gaming machine according to claim 5, further comprising:

buttons or a touch panel for receiving the player's choice of the acceptance or decline of the extra bet.

7. The gaming machine according to claim 5, wherein the controller changes the value of multiplier offered to the player at random.

8. The gaming machine according to claim 4, wherein the controller offers a selection of plural different amounts of the extra bet, and sets the value of multiplier used in the secondary game based on the selected amount of the extra bet.

9. The gaming machine according to claim 1, further comprising:

a reel, on which symbols are aligned, and

an overlay panel that modifies appearances of the symbols on the reel.

10. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the default value of multiplier is a value of multiplier in the primary game.

11. The gaming machine according to claim 1, further comprising:

a display, which displays a reel having a multiplier symbol;

wherein the multiplier symbol indicates a numeral; and

wherein the default value of multiplier is a value of the numeral when the multiplier symbol is shown in the display.

12. The gaming machine according to claim 11, wherein when the value of multiplier is different from the default value of multiplier, the value of multiplier is shown on the display in a different area where the reels are shown.

13. A gaming machine comprising:

a controller, which accepts a bet of credit and returns a certain amount of credit as a payout determined by multiplying a winning amount and a certain value of multiplier, and which runs a primary game and a secondary game;

wherein the controller sets the value of multiplier used for the secondary game based on the bet amount in the primary game, and

wherein the value of multiplier is increased in the secondary game when the controller accepts an additional bet before starting the secondary game.

14. The gaming machine according to claim 13, wherein the controller sets the value of multiplier used in the secondary game based on the bet amount in a primary game that triggered the secondary game.

15. A gaming machine comprising:

a controller, which accepts a bet of credit and returns a certain amount of credit as a payout determined by multiplying a winning amount and a certain value of multiplier, and which runs a primary game and a secondary game, and

a display that shows a reel having a specific type of symbol;

wherein the controller offers a choice for acceptance or decline of an extra bet to a player with a value of multiplier used in the secondary game, and

wherein the controller changes the value of multiplier offered to the player based on the specific type of symbol shown in the display in the primary game.

16. The gaming machine according to claim 15, wherein the specific type of symbol is a symbol that triggers the secondary game.

17. The gaming machine according to claim 15, wherein the reel has a plurality of a specific type of symbols; and

wherein the value of multiplier offered to the player is changed based on a number of the specific type of symbols shown in the display.

18. The gaming machine according to claim 15, wherein the reel has a plurality of specific types of symbols; and

wherein the value of multiplier offered to the player is varied based on a type of a specific type of symbol shown in the display.

19. A gaming machine comprising:

a controller, which accepts a bet of credit and returns a certain amount of credit as a payout determined by multiplying a winning amount and a certain value of multiplier, and which runs a primary game and a secondary game, and

a display that shows a reel having symbols;

wherein the controller sets the value of multiplier used in the secondary game at random, and

wherein the value of multiplier randomly set is increased in the secondary game when the controller accepts an additional bet before starting the secondary game.

20. The gaming machine according to claim 19, wherein the controller sets the value of multiplier used in the secondary game based on a random number generated before starting the secondary game.

21. The gaming machine according to claim 20, wherein the controller offers a choice for acceptance or decline of the additional bet to a player before starting the secondary game,

and wherein the controller increases the randomly set value of multiplier used in the secondary game based on the choice.

22. A method of providing a game comprising the steps of:

running a primary game,

offering a choice for acceptance or decline of a bet of credit after the primary game;

changing a value of multiplier according to the choice; and

running a secondary game, using the value of multiplier.

23. The method of providing a game according to claim 22, wherein the value of multiplier after changing is within ten times of a default value of multiplier.