U.S. Pat. No. 8,187,078

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

One preferred embodiment of the present invention will be described below in detail, referring to the accompanying drawings.

1. Overall Configuration of System

FIG. 1is a diagram showing, in a simplified form, the configuration of a credit return system according to one preferred embodiment of the invention. Referring toFIG. 1, this credit return system comprises: i) a game server1; and ii) plural game machines2placed in a single parlor.

The game machines2are connected via a network NT to the game server1and can send to and receive from the game server1a variety of information via the network NT. Individual identification numbers are assigned to the game machines2.

The game server1collectively controls (or integrally manages) the plural game machines2and distinguishes the source of data sent from the game machines2, based on the identification numbers being assigned to the game machines2, respectively. When the game server1sends data to the game machine2, the game server1designates the destination of the data by using the corresponding identification number.

Data sent from and received by the game machine2contain: i) the identification number being assigned to the game machine; and ii) identification information to identify the player currently playing with the game machine. Based on the identification information, the game server1determines i) whether a game is performed on the game machine2; and ii) whether the player has been changed on the game machine2.

Hereinafter, the game server is referred to “server.”

2. Configuration of Game Machines

FIG. 2is a perspective view showing the appearance of the game machine.FIG. 3is a vertical sectional view of the game machine. Referring toFIGS. 2 and 3, the game machine2is a slot game machine (slot machine) and has a frame body3.

The frame body3is in a shape of hollow box. A front panel4is attached to the frame body3via hinges3A and3B so that it may be opened or shut.

Attached to the rear surface of the front panel4is a casing6, with which three rotating drums5(5A to5C) arranged across a width thereof are covered from their back sides.

The drums5A to5C are of tubular shape and are supported rotatively about the rotational axes7. Symbol marks (e.g., figure of “7”, bell, plum, cherry etc.) are respectively drawn on the peripheral surfaces of the drums5A to5C such that the symbol marks are aligned in a row around their peripheries. Of the symbol marks drawn on the peripheral surfaces of the drums5A to5C, one symbol mark per drum is visible from the front side of the game machine2via windows8A to8C disposed on the front panel4.

The rotational axes7of the drums5A to5C is attached rotatively via bearings (not shown) to a predetermined bracket (not shown) of the frame of the game machine2. One end of each rotary axis7is joined to each output axis of stepping motors11A to11C (seeFIG. 4). Thereby, the drums5A to5C are rotatably driven by the stepping motors11A to11C, respectively, and controlled such that they are stopped at a predetermined rotational angle position by a control device12(seeFIG. 4).

Projection parts (not shown) indicating a standard position are disposed on the peripheral end parts of the drums5A to5C. The control device12detects the rotational standard positions of the drums5A to5C when these projection parts cross the optical axes of optical sensors (not shown), which are disposed so as to correspond to the drums5A to5C. The rotational speed of the stepping motors11A to11C is set so as to make constant a changing speed of the displayed symbol marks.

Bet line indicator lamps13are disposed adjacent to the windows8A to8C. The lamps13are provided for indicating which line of plural symbol mark stop lines displayed on windows8A to8C has been selected as a bet object.

A control part14is located at approximately the mid section of the front panel4, and a bet button16is disposed in the control part14. The bet button16is provided for setting a bet of medals entered via a throw-in slot15. When the player pushes the bet button16by the amount of medals on which the player desires to bet, the corresponding bet line indicator lamp13is lit up. The upper limit of bet medals is three in the game machine2.

The bet lines may be different if the operation number of the bet button16is different. By one operation, a single line extending horizontally in the middle stage of the windows8A to8C is the object of bet line. By two operations, the object of bet line may amount to three lines obtained by adding two lines extending horizontally in the upper and lower stage of the windows8A to8C, to the above-mentioned line. By three operations, the object of bet line may amount to five lines obtained by adding two lines on the diagonal of the windows8A to8C, to the above-mentioned three lines. Four or more operations are invalid.

When a bet medal number is set according to the above-mentioned procedure, the control device12takes medals corresponding to the bet medal number set by the player. By taking the medals, the condition of starting a slot game is established. In this state, when the player operates a start lever17, the control device12rotates the drums5A to5C.

The control part14has three stop buttons18A to18C disposed at locations that correspond to the drums5A to5C, respectively. Depressing the stop buttons18A to18C, the corresponding drum is stopped.

The front panel4has digital score indicators19for indicating: i) the number of medals the player threw in for the game; and ii) the number of medals to be discharged. When one of predetermined specific combinations of symbol marks (winning state) in the drums5A to5C is aligned on the stop line on which the player bets, a medal marks (winning state) discharge device (not shown) is driven to discharge a predetermined number of medals to a medal payout tray20.

Further, the front panel4has a card inlet22, through which the player inserts a card storing an identification number data to identify the player when he plays a game with the game machine2. A card reader23(seeFIG. 4) reads the data of the inserted card.

3. Configuration of Control Device of Game Machine

FIG. 4is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the game machine. Referring toFIG. 4, the control device12of the game machine2comprises: i) first interface circuit group31; ii) input/output bus32; iii) CPU33; iv) ROM36; v) RAM37; vi) random number generator38; vii) second interface circuit group39; and viii) communication interface circuit41.

The bet button16is connected to the first interface circuit group31, which is in turn connected to the input/output bus32. When the player depresses the bet button16, an operation signal is transmitted from the bet button16to the interface circuit group31. The interface circuit group31converts the operation signal to a predetermined voltage signal and provides it to the input/output bus32. Accordingly, before starting a play, a predetermined number of medals corresponding to a value indicated by the operation signal are thrown into the game machine2as the object of bet.

The input/output bus32performs input and output of data signals or address signals to the CPU33.

A start-up signal transmitted from the start lever17; and stop signals transmitted from the stop buttons18A to18C are converted to signals of predetermined voltages by the first interface circuit group31and then provided to the input/output bus32.

When the start lever17is operated to start a game, the start-up signal is provided to the CPU33. Upon receipt of the start-up signal, the CPU33transmits a control signal to the stepping motors11A to11C in order to rotate the drums5A to5C.

When the stop buttons18A to18C are depressed to stop the drums5A to5C, the respective stop signals from the stop buttons18A to18C are provided to the CPU33. If the player desires to stop the first drum5A, he operates the stop button18A. If he wants to stop the second drum5B, he operates the stop button18B. If he wants to stop the third drum5C, he operates the stop button18C. Upon receipt of the above stop signals, the CPU33transmits stop signals to the stepping motors11A to11C, in order to stop the drum corresponding to the operated stop buttons, respectively.

Rotational position sensors34A to34C are connected to the first interface circuit group31. The sensors34A to34C are disposed in the vicinity of the stepping motors11A to11C, respectively. The sensors34A to34C transmit angle position signals that respectively indicate the rotational angle positions of the stepping motors11A to11C, to the interface circuit group31. For example, rotary encoders can be employed as the rotational position sensors34A to34C.

Standard position sensors35A to35C are connected to the first interface circuit group31. The sensors35A to35C are disposed in the vicinity of the drums5A to5C, respectively. The sensors35A to35C are optical sensors, as described above, and transmit standard position signals to the interface circuit group31when the respective standard positions of the drums5A to5C are detected.

The card reader23, which is disposed within the game machine2, is connected to the first interface circuit group31. The card reader23transmits a card status signal at a predetermined timing, in accordance with a signal transmission demand by the CPU33. When a card is inserted into the card inlet22(seeFIG. 2), for example, the signal level of the card status signal becomes higher than a standard level. Based on the change in signal level, the CPU33detects that the card is inserted. On the other hand, when no card is inserted (i.e., the state that the card has been drawn out from the card inlet22), for example, the level of the card status signal returns to the standard level. Based on the change of signal level, the CPU33detects that no card is being inserted.

The CPU33detects: i) an angle position signal transmitted from the rotational position sensors34A to34C; and ii) a standard position signal transmitted from the standard position sensors35A to35C, thereby obtaining (or acquiring) data of symbol marks displayed on the windows8A to8C.

The ROM36and RAM37are connected to the input/output bus32. The ROM36stores: i) a program for controlling the game machine and returning (or paying out) medals; and ii) an initial value of a variable used in the program. The ROM36also stores data group indicating correspondence between a combination of symbol marks and random numbers. The RAM37stores flag and variable values.

The communication interface circuit41is connected to the input/output bus32. The circuit41is used when sending and/or receiving of data between the game machine2and server1is performed.

The random number generator38for generating the above-described random numbers is connected to the input/output bus32. When the CPU33transmits an instruction signal for generating random numbers to the random number generator38, the random number generator38generates random numbers in a predetermined range and transmits signals corresponding to the random numbers to the input/output bus32. When a random number is transmitted from the random number generator38, in order to determine a combination of symbol marks that corresponds to the random number, the CPU33searches the above-described data group and then substitutes a value corresponding to the combination to variables for the variable.

Usually either normal game or special game can be played with the game machine2.

In the normal game, there are i) an enabled prize-winning status that a combination of stopped symbol marks, which are displayed on an effective line, can match a prize-winning pattern; and ii) a disabled prize-winning status that a combination of stopped symbol marks, which are displayed on an effective line, cannot match the prize-winning pattern.

In the disabled prize-winning status, the symbol mark combinations displayed on the effective line may include i) a failure pattern and ii) a small prize pattern. The small prize pattern may include a pattern that a predetermined number of symbol marks such as “cherry” and “bell” are aligned on the effective line. If the pattern is established, a few medals are discharged to the payout tray20. The failure pattern may be a pattern that the above-mentioned symbol marks are not aligned on the effective line. In this case, no medal is discharged. The disabled prize-winning status can be shifted to the enabled prize-winning status by an internal lottery processing to be described hereafter. In the disabled prize-winning status, no prize-winning pattern can be aligned despite the timing at which the stop buttons18A to18C are depressed. Hence, the normal game status may not be shifted to the special play status.

On the other hand, only in the enabled prize-winning status, a combination of stopped symbol marks, which are displayed, may match a prize-winning pattern if the stop buttons18A to18C are depressed at the right timing. Therefore, the status allows the player to press the buttons for “aiming the right timing (MEOSHI).” When the combination of stopped symbol marks, which are displayed on the effective line, matches the prize-winning pattern, the player wins a prize and then the game proceeds to the special game providing a chance of obtaining a large number of medals. When the player fails to obtain any prize-winning pattern by missing a timing of depressing the stop buttons18A to18C, the above-mentioned failure pattern or small prize pattern is aligned on the effective line. If once the enabled prize-winning status is established, the status continues until a combination of stopped symbol marks, which are displayed, matches the prize-winning pattern. And the status would not be shifted to the disabled prize-winning status.

In the special game, it is arranged that a combination of stopped symbol marks, which are displayed on the effective line, matches the small prize pattern with an extremely high probability. Therefore, it is quite likely to obtain a large number of medals. After finishing the special game, the game proceeds to the normal game. When the normal game is played after the special game, it is determined whether the game proceeds in the enabled prize-winning status or the disabled prize-winning status by an internal lottery processing to be described hereafter.

The second interface circuit group39is also connected to the input/output bus32. To the circuit group39, there is connected: i) stepping motors11A to11C; ii) bet line indicator lamp13; iii) score indicator19; and iv) speaker40. The circuit group39applies a drive signal or drive power to each of these devices. For instance, when the player depresses the bet button16, a drive current is provided to the bet line indicator lamp13, in order to indicate a bet line that becomes effective in accordance with the number of throw-in medals. When the game (play) is over, a drive signal is provided to the score indicator19, in order to indicate the score corresponding to the prize-winning status at that time. The speaker40makes an effect voice corresponding to the game status when the game is started or over.

4. Configuration of Game Server

FIG. 5is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the game server. Referring toFIG. 5, a server1has a data bus (BUS). To the data bus (BUS), there is connected i) CPU51; ii) memory52; iii) communication interface53; and iv) database54.

The CPU51executes various processing according to programs stored in the memory52. Specifically, the CPU51receives data from the game machine2via a communication line connected by the communication interface53, and stores the data in the memory52. This data is, for example, the upper limit data and return rate data of plural game machines2under the control of the server1. The data is information sent from each game machine2under the control of the server1. The CPU51reads a program stored in the database54on the memory52, and progresses the program based on the information sent from each game machine2that is stored in the memory52. The progress of the program is stored in the database54.

It is assumed in the following, for the purpose of description, that the game machine2is activated in advance, and flags and variables are initialized to a predetermined value.

5. Flow of Control of Game Machines

FIG. 6is a flowchart showing the flow of control of game machines. Referring toFIG. 6, firstly, the CPU33of the game machines2performs a bet-button operation processing in which it is determined whether the player pushes the bet button16(step S11). The bet-button operation processing is executed in accordance with the operation of depressing the bet button16, and includes the following processing: i) detecting whether an operation signal is transmitted from the bet button16in response to an operation to the bet button16, thereby storing the number of throw-in medals with the operation; and ii) transmitting a drive signal to the bet line indicator lamp13, in order to indicate the bet line that becomes effective in accordance with the number of throw-in medals.

Upon completion of the bet-button operation processing, the CPU33determines whether the pressing operation of the bet button16is performed and the operation of the start lever17is performed (step S12). When the CPU33determines both operations are performed, the CPU33shifts the processing to step S13. When the CPU33determines both are not performed or none of these operations are performed, the CPU33returns the processing to step S11, and performs the bet-button operation processing again. As will be described hereafter, a period of time that all the drums5A to5C are started to rotate and are brought into a stop state is a sequence of game (play).

Proceeding to step S13, the CPU33executes an internal lottery. The internal lottery may include the processes of: i) controlling the random number generator38to generate a random number; ii) searching a data group indicating the correspondence between combinations of symbol marks and random numbers; and iii) determining a combination of symbol marks in accordance with the generated random number. The combination of symbol marks, which are stopped and displayed on the previous game, is stored in the RAM37, as will be described hereafter. In the following game, the CPU33reads the combination of symbol marks stored in the RAM37so that it is used for internal lottery processing.

In the internal lottery process, the combination of symbol marks that can be stopped and displayed is determined by the lottery, and a value indicating the lottery result is substituted for a lottery data of the currently performing game (current game lottery data). For instance, when it is in the disabled prize-winning status and in the failure pattern, the current game lottery data is set to “00”. When it is in the disabled prize-winning status and there occurs the symbol marks combination matching with the small prize pattern, the current game lottery data is set to “01”. When it is in the enabled prize-winning status, the current game lottery data is set to “12”. When it is in the special play status and in failure pattern, the current game lottery data is set to “20”. When it is in the special play status and there occurs the symbol marks combination matching with the small prize pattern, the current game lottery data is set to “21”. Instead of performing any special internal lottery processing, the stopped symbol mark may be used to check whether the player moves to an advantageous status.

Upon completion of the processing of step S13, the CPU33reads a subroutine about stepping motor control processing (not shown) and transmits, based on the subroutine, control signals to the stepping motors11A to11C, in order to drive each motor at a predetermined rotational speed (step S14). The predetermined “rotational speed” may mean a speed at which the symbol marks are changeably displayed by the rotation of the drums5A to5C in the above-mentioned sequence of game (play). Therefore, no transit speed immediately after the drums5A to5C starts rotating or immediately before they are brought into a stop may be included in the predetermined rotational speed.

In this preferred embodiment, there is a past game lottery data of the game performed in the past that corresponds to the above-mentioned current game lottery data. The past game lottery data is a data indicating the lottery result of the game performed before the current game, and the data is stored in the RAM37. As will be described hereafter, in the normal game to which the game style is shifted after the special game is over, the past game lottery data is reset at the time of performing the first game. The past game lottery data is updated by sequentially accumulating the current game result in the previous game result.

Upon completion of the above-mentioned stepping motor control processing, the CPU33determines whether the player depressed any one of the stop buttons18A to18C in order to stop the drums5A to5C, and from which stop button a stop signal is transmitted (step S15). If it is determined that no stop signal is transmitted from the stop buttons18A to18C, the CPU33executes again the processing of step S15. If it is determined that a stop signal is transmitted from any one of the stop buttons18A to18C, the CPU33performs processing for stopping the stepping motors11A to11C (step S16). This stop control processing includes: i) controlling the random number generator38to generate a random number; ii) searching data group indicating the correspondence between combinations of symbol marks and random numbers; and iii) determining a combination of symbol marks in accordance with the generated random number.

The CPU33obtains a symbol mark currently appearing on the windows8A to8C, based on i) a rotational position signal transmitted from the rotational position sensors34A to34C; and ii) a standard position signal transmitted from the standard position sensors35A to35C. Based on the above-mentioned symbol mark data and the current game lottery data set in the above-mentioned internal lottery processing (step S13), the CPU33controls the stepping motors11A to11C and determines a stop position.

Although the CPU33stops the stepping motors11A to11C in accordance with the current game lottery data, if determined that any one of the stop buttons18A to18C is depressed, the CPU33can apply an additional drive to the stepping motors11A to11C, under a predetermined condition. For example, when no symbol mark corresponding to the current game lottery data can be stopped and displayed, the stepping motors11A to11C may be driven additionally for four symbol marks to the maximum. However, it is managed that a symbol mark corresponding to the current game lottery data may not be stopped and displayed if the symbol mark is not within the range of the additional four symbol marks. For instance, even when in the enabled prize-winning status two drums are already stopped with symbol marks that may match the winning pattern, it is possible that the combination of symbol marks does not match the winning pattern depending on the timing at which the player operates the stop button corresponding to the last drum. On the other hand, when in the disabled prize-winning status two drums are already stopped with symbol marks that may match the winning pattern, the stepping motors11A to11C are controlled so that the combination of the symbol marks does not match the winning pattern even though the player operates the stop button corresponding to the last drum at the right timing.

Upon completion of the above-mentioned stop control processing, the CPU33determines whether all the stop buttons18A to18C are depressed (step S17). In other words, in this processing of step S17, it is determined whether all stop signals transmitted in accordance with the operation of the stop buttons18A to18C are detected. Here, if it is determined that all of the stop buttons18A to18C are not operated, the CPU33returns the processing to step S15. If it is determined that all the stop buttons18A to18C are operated, the CPU33moves the processing to step S18.

In the processing of step S18, the CPU33determines whether a combination of symbol marks aligned on the line that becomes effective matches with a winning status, and performs processing of medal payout corresponding to the winning status. In this medal payout processing, if it is determined that the combination of symbol marks aligned in the effective line matches with the wining state, the CPU33calculates the number of payout medals corresponding to the winning status, and pays out the number of medals corresponding to the calculated number. Thereafter, the CPU33moves the processing to step S19. On the other hand, if it is determined that the combination of symbol marks aligned in the effective line does not match with the wining, the CPU33moves the processing to step S19, without executing any medal payout.

In the processing of step S19, the CPU33mainly performs processing for storing the current game lottery data (step S19). In this preferred embodiment, the processing for storing the current game result is terminated at the time that the CPU33reads the past game lottery data from the RAM37and stores the current game lottery data in addition to the past game lottery data in the RAM37. Here, data indicating symbol marks actually stopped and displayed and other information may be stored as well as the current game lottery data.

6. Flow of Operation of Game Machines

FIG. 7is a flowchart showing the flow of operation of the game machine. The procedure shown in this flowchart is performed concurrently with the subroutine of the game machine2shown inFIG. 6.

Referring toFIG. 7, the game machine2performs the process for identifying the player (step S20). The process (hereinafter referred to as “player identification process”) is executed by the CPU33, in order to determine i) whether a game is being performed with the game machine2; ii) who the player is if the game is performed with the game machine2; and iii) whether the player is the same or different from the previous player.

The reason why the player identification process is particularly necessary is that the payout return is executed per player in this preferred embodiment, unlike the game machine executing the same or similar payout return per game machine. Therefore, if the player change occurs, the game (play) status about the upper limit till then is reset. Hence, it is necessary to detect the player change so as to determine who the player is.

FIG. 8is a flowchart showing the flow of operation of game machines when performing the player discrimination processing. The procedure in this flowchart corresponds to the subroutine of the player discrimination processing (step S20) shown inFIG. 7.

Referring toFIG. 8, firstly the CPU33of the game machine2determines the play status (step S90). The play status determination is a process for determining whether there is a player performing a game with the game machine2(i.e., whether a game is being performed with the game machine2). When the game machine2is not in the play status, the following processing is not necessary. It is therefore necessary to firstly check whether the game machine2is in the play status. The play status determination is executed by detecting whether a card is inserted into the card inlet22provided on the front panel4of the game machine2.

In order to check the play status, the CPU33determines whether a card is detected (step S91). This card detection is achieved by detecting whether the card is inserted into the card inlet22with the card reader23. The card to be inserted may be an identification card storing information to identify the player, which may have any function other than identification. For example, a prepaid card storing information to identify the player may be used.

In step S91, the card detection is performed. As the result, if it is determined that no card is inserted, the CPU33terminates the player identification process. Thereafter, the CPU33of the game machine2sends the server1a signal of the identification result that no card is detected (step S96). As the contents of signals related to the card detection, for example, data “0” may be sent when no card is detected, and data “1” may be sent when a card is detected.

If it is determined that a card is inserted, the CPU33performs a process for identifying the player who plays a game with the game machine2(step S92). When a card is already inserted, the card reader23reads information stored in the card. In this preferred embodiment, the card inserted in the card inlet holds identification number data unique to the player in order to identify the player. Thereby, the CPU33of the game machine2can identify the player playing a game with the game machine2based on the identification number data.

Upon completion of the above-mentioned player identification processing, the CPU33refers to the previous player's history (step S93). Information of the players who have been played with the game machine2is stored, as history, in the RAM37of the game machine2. The CPU33refers to the player's history stored in the RAM37and the identification number of the player just before receiving a signal indicating that the card has been detected.

Based on the result of the above-mentioned reference, the CPU33determines whether there is player change (step S94). Specifically, the CPU33compares the previous player identification number data that has been referred to in step S93with the player identification number data that has been sent from the card reader23together with the card detection signal. And the CPU33determines whether there is agreement between the two. If the two data agree, the CPU33determines that there is no player change because it appears that the same player merely inserted the identification card again. If the two data are different, the CPU33determines that there is a player change. If it is determined that there is no player change, the CPU33completes the player identification process. If it is determined that there is a player change, the CPU33resets the cumulative throw-in number of the previous player (step S95). Specifically, the CPU33resets the data relating to the cumulative throw-in number of credit consumed by the previous player in the player's history stored in the RAM37that has been referred to in step S93.

This reset processing is for implementing one of the characteristic features of the present preferred embodiment, that is, performing the “payout return” per player. This means that the cumulative throw-in credit number of the player cannot be increased by adding the credit number thrown and consumed by the other players. Therefore, if a player quits playing a game with a game machine before reaching the upper limit of the cumulative throw-in credit number and moves to another game machine, this player will start to play a game with the new game machine (said another game machine) from the status that the cumulative throw-in credit number returns to “0”. Thereby, the player might not often change game machines. In addition, the player is aware that there is a high probability of the payout return when the upper limit of the cumulative throw-in number is reached. This may make it possible that the player can continue the game without anxiety.

Upon completion of the above-mentioned reset processing, the CPU33of the game machine2sends the result of determination made in step S90(step S96). Specifically, the CPU33sends the player's information to the server1via the communication interface circuit41, network NT, and communication interface53of the server1. Data to be sent may be the player's information to which the value of “1” is appended, as stated above. At this time, the past player's history information stored in the RAM37is rewritten with the new player's information by the CPU33of the game machine2and then the rewritten information is stored in the RAM37.

Upon completion of the above-mentioned data sending processing, the CPU33repeats the player identification process.

Although in this preferred embodiment an identification card storing data to verify the player or an ID card is employed as means for identifying the player, the following means may be applicable. For example, a human sensor to detect the human body may be attached to the game machine2. A function of weighing may be added to a stool on which the player sits for performing a game so that the player's body weight may be weighed and stored, thereby identifying the player.

Referring back toFIG. 7, upon completion of the above-mentioned sequence of player identification process, the CPU33of the game machine2performs a process for setting an upper limit value that is a standard for the payout return (step S21). By way of example, the upper limit value may be the number of medals, which may be used as a game medium for performing a game with a slot game machine, etc. When the number of medals used by a player reaches the upper limit value, the slot game machine may execute the payout return to the player.

The above-mentioned upper limit value setting may be processed in various ways. For example, i) the upper limit setting may be performed by using a preset upper limit value; ii) the owner or the like of the game machine may make the upper limit setting; or iii) the upper limit value may be automatically changed depending on the play status. The upper limit value setting that may be made in the above various ways should be performed when the game player of the game machine2is changed. It is preferable to set the upper limit after the result of determination whether there is player change in step S21. The result of determination whether there is player change is converted into a data, which is sent from the server1to the game machine2. Specifically, in the presence of player change, the data, to which value “1” is appended, is sent. In the absence of player change, the data, to which value “0” is appended, is sent.

Hereafter, the instance of using a preset upper limit value will be explained, which is one of the above-mentioned various instances. The preset upper limit value is stored in the RAM37. The CPU33reads data of the upper limit value from the RAM37and completes setting of the upper limit value. The instance of setting the upper limit value without using the preset upper limit value will be described later.

Upon completion of the above-mentioned upper limit value setting process, the CPU33performs, based on the result of the bet button operation processing (step S11) shown inFIG. 6, processes for i) adding the number of medals thrown by the player as a game medium; and ii) notifying the upper limit (step S22).

The throw-in number adding process will be presented first. A medal sensor (not shown) provided within the game machine2counts medals thrown in through the throw-in slot15. The counted number data is added to a cumulative throw-in number data including the number of medals thrown in the past, which is stored as a current throw-in medal data. Here, the cumulative throw-in medal number may be referred to the cumulative consumption of credit.

The above-mentioned cumulative throw-in number data is the data stored in the RAM37. The CPU33reads data of the past throw-in medal number from RAM37, adds data of the current throw-in medal number, which is counted by the medal sensor, to the data of the cumulative throw-in medal number, and saves the result of addition as the updated cumulative throw-in number data in the RAM37. The cumulative throw-in number data is reset in the presence of a player change, as previously described in the player identification process (step S20).

The upper limit notification process will be explained next. The upper limit notification may mean to notify the player how soon the upper limit can be reached with the game machine2. Specific contents of the notification may include: i) the set upper limit value; ii) the current cumulative throw-in number; or iii) the rate of the cumulative throw-in number to the upper limit value (e.g., a figure or figures expressed in percentage of the upper limit, which may show the degree of the attainment).

By virtue of this notification, the player can check how long the player should play the game before the payout return is executed. As the result, the player can continue the game without anxiety. Hence, it may be preferable to provide the upper limit notification at any time. On the contrary, if it is far from the upper limit, the player might stop playing the game at that point. It is therefore preferable to design the game machine such that it may determine whether the upper limit should be notified or not depending on the play status.

In consideration of the foregoing circumstances, the upper limit notification may be made in two manners. In the first manner, the notification is executed at any time, or no notification is executed at any time (hereinafter referred to as a “first notification manner”). In the second manner, it is determined whether the notification should be executed or not depending on the play status of the player (hereinafter referred to as a “second notification manner”).

Here, the first notification manner is employed, which performs the notification at any time. The instance of taking the second notification manner will be described later.

Upon completion of the above-mentioned throw-in medal number adding process and the upper-limit notification determination process, the CPU33determines whether the cumulative throw-in number reaches the upper limit (step S23). This determination may be achieved by comparing the cumulative throw-in number data stored in the RAM37in step S22with the upper limit value set in step S21. Specifically, the CPU33compares these two data stored in the RAM37and determines whether the number of medals that the play has thrown in the game machine2reaches the upper limit. If it is determined that the cumulative throw-in number does not reach the upper limit value, the CPU33returns the processing to step S22, and continues processing for adding the number of medals that the player throws in the game machine2. If it is determined that the cumulative throw-in number reaches the upper limit value, the CPU33sends the result (arriving at the upper limit) to the server1(step S24). Specifically, the CPU33of the game machine2sends i) a signal indicating that the cumulative throw-in number reaches the upper limit value; ii) data of the upper limit value set in step S21; and iii) data of the payout return rate that will be described later, to the server1via the communication interface circuit41of the game machine2.

More specifically, the signal indicating arrival at the upper limit is expressed, for example, by a numerical value of “1”. A signal designating the game machine2(i.e., data indicating which game machine out of the plural game machines under the control of the server1) is appended to the signal indicating that the cumulative throw-in number reaches the upper limit. For example, if an identification number of “123” is assigned to the game machine2among the plural game machines under the control of the server1, a signal of “123-1”, wherein the numerical value of “1” indicating arrival at the upper limit is affixed to the identification number “123” of the game machine2, is sent to the sever1.

The upper limit value data is stored in the RAM37, as described above. This upper limit value data is used for determining the number of returned medals when the payout return is to be executed. The number of returned medals may be calculated by multiplying the upper limit value by a return rate.

The RAM37of the game machine2stores data about the return rate used in determining how much payout return should be executed with respect to the upper limit value of the game machine2. This return rate data is sent from the game machine2to the server1.

The above-mentioned payout return rate is usually a preset numerical value. It is however possible to change the return rate in various forms, thereby increasing the game characteristics.

Upon completion of a process that the upper-limit-arrival result is sent to the server1, the CPU33waits for a payout return instruction (step S25). The return instruction is a signal to be sent from the server1to the game machine2, which has the cumulative throw-in number data that reaches the upper limit, and a signal to be used for controlling the timing of the return, etc. The game machine2is to be put in an enabled state for a player to play a game even while it is waiting for the return instruction.

In the above-mentioned return instruction waiting status, the CPU33performs a process for determining whether notification should be executed or not (step S26). The term of “notification” may mean to notify that the return is about to be executed to the player of the game machine2.

By referring to the data stored in the RAM37, the CPU33determines whether this notification should be executed (step S27). The RAM37stores data for determining execution of notification. Specifically, data of “1” is assigned for execution of notification, and data of “0” is assigned for no execution of notification. These data may be preset or set properly by the owner of the game machine, etc.

When the data stored in the RAM37is “1”, the CPU33notifies the player the content that the cumulative throw-in medal number of the game machine2with which he is performing a game will reach the upper limit so as to execute the payout return shortly (step S28). This notification may be executed by using an illuminator provided within the game machine2. Alternatively, the game machine2may have a display part performing notification to the player. Any notification means for notifying the player an upcoming payout return may be employed such that the notification means may be provided separately or integrally with the game machine2.

When the above-mentioned notification process is completed, or when it is determined that no notification is to be executed, the CPU33determines whether the payout return instruction is received (step S29). The return instruction is being awaited by the game machine2in step S25, which is sent from the server1. The server1sends the return instruction to a game machine if it is constructed so as to receive the return at any time it reaches the upper limit as well as if it is constructed such that the return is not always executed when it reaches the upper limit.

The server1sends a return instruction signal at a predetermined timing to the game machine2via the communication interface53. In the game machine2, the CPU33receives the return instruction via the communication interface circuit41and input/output bus32. If it does not receive the return instruction, the CPU33returns the processing to step S25and waits for the return instruction again.

Upon completion of the above-mentioned return instruction receiving process, the CPU33executes the return processing (step S30). This return processing is executed based on the return instruction transmitted from the server1in step S29. Specifically, the CPU33receives data that indicates how much return should be executed to the game machine2, and executes the return based on the received data.

In the game machine receiving the return at every time the throw-in medal number reaches the upper limit, the return is executed by the amount of medals calculated mainly based on the upper limit data and the return rate data stored in the RAM37. On the other hand, in the game machine wherein the return is not always executed when the throw-in medal number reaches the upper limit, if it is determined to execute no return, the CPU33performs a process for resetting the throw-in number data stored in the RAM37, as required. This throw-in number data reset is executed by a program stored in the ROM36on receipt of an instruction of the CPU33.

Upon completion of the above-mention return process, the CPU33moves again the processing to the upper-limit value setting processing (step S21), and repeats the above-mentioned sequence of processing.

7. Flow of Return Preparation Operation of Game Server

FIG. 9is a flowchart showing the flow of operation when the game server makes preparation for the payout return. This operation is always repeated in the server1.

The server1always holds some of medals serving as a game medium, which have been thrown in each game machine2, in preparation for execution of the return to the game machine2under the control of the server1when the upper limit is reached.

Referring toFIG. 9, the server1is waiting for the game medium throw-in result from each game machine2(step S41).

As the game medium that the player uses with each game machine2, it is possible to use any tangible matters, e.g., medals, winning balls, coins, or bills. Besides these, any intangible matters that can be expressed in a numerical value as data are also handled as a game medium in this preferred embodiment. The term of “throw-in” means the following action that a certain player makes a game machine recognize the game medium for the purpose of playing a game, irrespective of the type of the game medium. Therefore, not only a medal or the like that is thrown in through the throw-in slot15and detected by the medal sensor of the game machine2, but also a numerical value data or the like that the player decides to use for a game becomes a candidate to be waited for.

In the status that the server1is waiting for game medium throw-in, the CPU51of the server1determines whether a game medium throw-in data is received at a predetermined timing (step S42). In this preferred embodiment, medals are used as the game medium, and the player continues the game with the game machine2, while medals are thrown in via the throw-in slot15. These thrown-in medals are detected and counted by the medal sensor within the game machine2so that the counted medal number is converted into a numerical value as data, which is stored in the RAM37of the game machine2as a cumulative throw-in number data. The cumulative throw-in number data is sent at a predetermined timing to the server1via the communication interface circuit41. The server1receives the cumulative throw-in number data via the communication interface53. The received cumulative throw-in number data is properly stored in the memory52, based on an instruction of the CPU51. In the determination processing in step42, if the server1does not receive the throw-in data, the CPU51returns the processing to step S41.

Upon completion of the throw-in data receipt determination processing, the CPU51holds a predetermined percent of the throw-in number (step S43). As stated above, the server1is constructed so as to retain in advance game mediums for the payout return to the player performing a game with each game machine2under the control of the server1. The retention amount of one server may differ from that of another server. The retention amount is determined by multiplying the cumulative throw-in number data of each game machine2, which is received in the throw-in data receipt determination processing (step S42), by a predetermined rate (payout return rate).

In the above-mentioned retention processing, the server1sends a numerical value data corresponding to the retention amount calculated by the CPU51to the game machine2via the communication interface53. In the game machine2, the CPU33saves in the RAM37the numerical value data that is part of the cumulative throw-in number data, as retention data.

Upon completion of the above-mentioned retention processing, the server1returns to the status of waiting for throw-in data from each game machine2(step S41), and repeats the foregoing sequence of processing.

8. Flow of Return Operation of Game Server

FIG. 10is a flowchart showing the flow of operation when the game server executes the payout return. This operation is always repeated.

Referring toFIG. 10, firstly, the CPU51of the server1performs a process for selecting a return object by lottery (step S51). This return object lottery is mainly performed if the payout return is not necessarily executed to the game machine2, where the upper limit is reached. By way of example, the lottery may be performed in a manner that: i) “the return is executed to a game machine that is the N-th game machine where the upper limit is reached if counted from now”; or ii) “the return is executed to a game machine that has the last digit of the serial machine number matching with the lottery number.” On the other hand, if the return is always executed to the game machine where the upper limit is reached, for example, the lottery may be performed in a manner that: iii) “the return is executed to a game machine that is the first game machine where the upper limit is reached”; or iv) “the return is executed to a game machine which has the last digit of the serial machine number is 0, 1, . . . , or 9 (i.e., to be applied to any serial machine numbers).” These lottery results are stored in the memory52, based on an instruction of the CPU51.

Upon completion of the above-mentioned return object lottery process, the CPU51enters the state of waiting for the upper limit arrival result sent from each game machine2(step S52). As stated above, this upper limit arrival result indicates that the game medium thrown in the game machine2reaches a preset amount. It is determined whether the upper limit is reached on the game machine2. If the upper limit is reached, this result is sent to the server1waiting for the upper limit arrival result via the communication interface53.

When the server1is waiting for the upper limit arrival result, the server1determines whether the upper limit arrival result is received at a predetermined timing (step S53). The CPU51executes the determination. If it is determined that the upper limit arrival result is received, the CPU51moves the processing to the step S54. If it is determined that no upper limit arrival result is received, the CPU51returns to the upper limit arrival result awaiting process (step S52), and repeats the determination process of the receipt of the upper limit arrival result at the predetermined timing.

Proceeding to the process of step S54, the CPU51determines whether the game machine2sending the upper limit arrival result is the return object. This determination is executed, based on the data determined by the lottery performed in the above-mentioned return object lottery process (step S51). Thus, the determination is achieved by referring to the data stored in the memory52and comparing the reference data with data appended to the upper limit arrival result.

If the lottery is performed in a manner that “the return is executed to a game machine which has the last digit of the serial machine number matching with the lottery number,” as described above, the CPU51reads data of the identification number (serial machine number) of the game machine2that is appended to the above lottery result, and then determines whether the last digit of the identification number matches with the above lottery number. If the return is always executed for the game machine where the upper limit is reached, a positive result is always obtained in the determination whether it is the return object.

In the above-mentioned return object determination process, if it is determined that the game machine is not the return object, a signal indicating no return execution is sent in the process for sending a return control signal that will be described later. This signal is sent to the game machine2via the communication interface53, based on an instruction of the CPU51. If a positive result is obtained, the CPU51performs a process for determining a return timing (step S55).

The return timing can be set in various manners. For example, to the game machine where the upper limit is reached and which is designated as the return object, the payout return may be forced to be executed after a predetermined lapse of time from completion of all processes with the server. Alternatively, the return may be executed after a predetermined number of games are performed.

The process for determining a return timing is to determine at which timing the return should be executed. If the return timing is predetermined uniquely, this return timing is employed.

Upon completion of the above-mentioned return timing determination process, the CPU51determines whether the return timing is established (step S56). The return timing is determined in the return timing determination process (step S55) and stored in the memory52of the server1. For instance, if a temporal timing such as “at the time after a few minutes from when the upper limit is reached” is provided, a timer (not shown) within the server1may be used to control this timing. If a timing based on the player's game circumstances such as “when the player performs twenty games after the upper limit is reached” is provided, various sensors within the game machine2may be used to determine whether the predetermined condition is satisfied so that a signal is sent from the CPU33of the game machine2to inform server1of the timing.

If it is determined that the return timing is not established since the process is performed after a provisional return timing, the CPU51returns the processing to step S55so that the processing from step S55is repeated. If it is determined that the return timing is established, the CPU51performs a process for determining the amount of payout return by referring to the game medium retention amount (number) and so on obtained in step S43, as shown inFIG. 9(step S57).

The game medium retained in the retention process shown inFIG. 9(step S43) is applied to the amount of payout return to the game machine2. When the upper limit is reached, the payout return is usually executed for the amount obtained by multiplying the upper limit by the preset return rate. The server1basically calculates the return amount based on the upper limit data and return rate data that are contained in the upper limit arrival result sent from the game machine2. On the other hand, as the result of the above-mentioned return timing lottery, if there is a prolonged period of time between the upper limit arrival and execution of the return, the player waits for the return while performing a game. Therefore, it may be considered to increase the return amount depending on the credit number consumed after the upper limit is reached. For the purpose of this, the server1may increase the return amount somewhat or increase the return rate in the return amount determination process (step S57) in consideration of the credit number consumed after the upper limit is reached.

It can also be considered to change the return rate depending on the upper limit value, in order to produce higher game characteristics. In this instance, without using a predetermined return rate, the return rate should be changed depending on the result of lottery that is performed on the server1under the collective control of the plural game machines2.

A manner of producing higher game characteristics by changing the return rate will be described later.

Upon completion of the above-mentioned return amount determination processing, the CPU51sends a return control signal to the game machine2(step S58). This return control signal may be categorized into two types, according to the result of the above-mentioned return object determination process (step S54). Specifically, the value of “1” may be given to the game machine which is determined to be the return object in the above-mentioned return object determination process (step S54). Hence, the value of “1” is a data indicating that this game machine is the return object, which is appended to a part of the return control signal. On the other hand, the value of “0” may be given to the game machine which is determined to not be the return object. Hence, the value of “0” is a data indicating that the game machine is not the return object, which is appended to a part of the return control signal. In the instance that the return is always executed to the game machine where the upper limit is reached, the value of the return control signal may be set to “1”.

The return control signal contains a data for determining the degree of the return (the return amount). All data included in the return control signal are sent via the communication interface53based on an instruction of the CPU51of the server1.

Upon completion of the above-mentioned control signal sending process, the server1subtracts a retention number (step S59). The retention number may mean the amount of game medium retained in the memory52of the server1. The retained game medium may be used for the return to each game machine2. It is therefore necessary to perform subtraction of the game medium amount data corresponding to the return amount.

The CPU51executes the retention amount subtraction process, and the game medium amount data in the memory52is updated after the subtraction processing.

If the return amount to the game machine2is changed depending on the play status, it may be constructed that the subtraction processing is performed after a data is received, which indicates the return amount to the player performing a game with the game machine2and is sent to the server1by the CPU33of the game machine2when the return to the game machine2is completed.

Upon completion of the above-mentioned retention amount subtraction process, the CPU51of the server1returns the processing to step S51, and repeats the processing from the step of return object lottery.

9. Flow of Upper Limit Setting Processing

The upper limit can be set by a method of using a predetermined upper limit value, or a method of using the upper limit value determined by lottery on the server or the like. Since the former method is already described, the latter method will be explained hereafter.

FIG. 11is a flowchart showing the flow of operation when the game server sets the upper limit value. This flowchart corresponds to the subroutine of the upper limit value setting processing shown inFIG. 7(step S21).

The server1enters the state of waiting for a game machine serial number assigned to each game machine2under the control of the server1(step S60).

As described above, the server1controls the game machine group comprising plural game machines2. It is therefore necessary to identify one game machine to set the upper limit value from the plural game machines. The game machine2to set the upper limit value sends, based on an instruction of the CPU33of this game machine2, its machine serial number to the server1via the communication interface circuit41, network NT, and communication interface53of the server1.

As used herein, the game machine to set the upper limit value may include i) the game machine with which it is determined that the player is changed in the player identification process (step S20); or ii) the game machine where the upper limit set previously is reached. The game machine serial number data is sent together with i) a signal indicating the player change; and ii) the player's information data. That is, the upper limit value setting with the game machine2is executed i) when there is player change; or ii) when the upper limit set previously is reached.

When the server1enters the state of waiting for a game machine serial number assigned to each game machine2, the CPU51determines whether a game machine serial number is received (step S61). If it is determined that no game machine serial number is received, the CPU51returns the processing to step S60and waits for the game machine serial number again. If it is determined that a game machine serial number is received, the CPU51refers to a game history (step S62).

As stated above, the flow of the upper limit value setting process corresponds to the subroutine of step S21shown inFIG. 7. Therefore, the game machine2may perform the processing of step S21for the first time, or it may perform the processing of step S21again after the return processing (step S30) has been made.

The game history reference is to know how the game machine2reaches the upper limit value setting process (step S21). This is also to prevent dual changes of the upper limit value with the game machine2where the upper limit has not yet been reached since it is possible to set the upper limit after execution of the return, as described later.

The game history is stored in the database54of the server1, and the CPU51of the server1executes its reference processing. The game history may include i) the past upper limit values; and ii) data indicating whether the return has been executed (return history data).

Referring to the game history, the CPU51determines whether the return has been executed to the game machine2at the previous upper limit arrival (step S63).

A data indicating whether the return has been executed is stored in the column of “the past execution of return” in the above-mentioned return game history data. Specifically, in the presence of the return, the data of “1” may be given to the column, whereas in the absence of the return, the data of “0” may be given to the column.

If the return is executed after the previous upper limit arrival, the CPU51determines that a new upper limit value has been set thereafter and completes the upper limit value setting process. If it is determined that no return has been executed after the previous upper limit arrival, the CPU51determines an upper limit value by lottery (step S64). This upper limit value lottery is executed by selecting randomly one from a certain range of numerical values (e.g., 1 to 200), under a program for the upper limit value lottery stored in the memory52. These numerical values are expressed in thousands of yen. For example, when “10” is selected by lottery, the upper limit value is ten thousand yen (¥10,000).

Here, the upper limit value may not necessarily be given by the amount of money. The upper limit value may be given, for example, by i) the number of medals that can regarded as a game medium; ii) a play period of time; or iii) the number of plays to be played.

Upon completion of the above-mentioned lottery processing, the server1changes the upper limit value to the lottery result (step S65). This upper limit value change is executed by storing, under the control of the CPU51, the new upper limit value in the column of “the upper limit” in the game history of the database54. This upper limit value is also sent to the game machine2.

The upper limit value may be set after the predetermined return is executed.

FIG. 12is a flowchart showing the flow of operation when the game server sets the upper limit value after executing the predetermined return. This flowchart corresponds to the subroutine of the return processing shown inFIG. 7(step S30). That is, the upper limit value setting after executing the return is included in the processing of step S30, as a return processing.

Referring toFIG. 12, the server1firstly determines whether the return is executed to the game machine2(step S70). The presence or absence of the return is recorded (stored) in the above-mentioned return history. Specifically, the data of “1” in the column of “the past return” of the return history indicates that return has been executed, whereas the data of “0” indicates that no return has been executed. The CPU51of the server1determines whether the return has been executed. If it is determined that no return has been executed, in the upper limit value setting process shown inFIG. 7(step S21), the upper limit value is set based on the subroutine shown inFIG. 11, and therefore the CPU51terminates the processing. On the other hand, if it is determined that the return has been executed, the CPU51determines the upper limit value by lottery (step S71). This upper limit value lottery is executed by selecting randomly one from a certain range of numerical values under a program for the upper limit value lottery stored in the memory52.

Upon completion of the above-mentioned upper limit value lottery processing, the server1performs a process for changing the upper limit value to the lottery result (step S72). This upper limit value change is achieved by storing the new upper limit value in the column of “the upper limit” of the game history of the database54. This upper limit value is also sent to the game machine2.

The processing of the upper limit value setting after execution of the return is terminated by executing the foregoing sequence of processing.

Further, the upper limit value setting may be executed after the player is brought into an advantageous status (i.e., after obtaining a big prize (big bonus)).

FIG. 13is a flowchart showing the flow of operation when the game server sets the upper limit value after the big prize occurs with the game machine. This flowchart corresponds to the subroutine of the internal lottery process shown inFIG. 6(step S13). Although, for convenience in illustration, the flowchart ofFIG. 13is started with the internal lottery processing (step S80), this internal lottery processing is performed at each game machine2. Therefore, step S81and latter processes are the operation of the server

Referring toFIG. 13, when the internal lottery processing is started, the CPU51of the server1enters the state of waiting for the internal lottery result (step S81).

When the internal lottery result is sent from the each game machine2, the CPU51determines whether this result is a big prize (step S82). In step S82, if it is determined that it is not a big prize, the CPU51terminates this processing. On the other hand, if it is determined that it is a big prize, the CPU51executes the upper limit value lottery (step S83). This upper limit value lottery is executed by selecting randomly one from a certain range of numerical values under a program for the upper limit value lottery stored in the memory52.

Upon completion of the above-mentioned upper limit value lottery processing, the server1changes the upper limit value to the lottery result (step S84). This upper limit value change is achieved by storing the new upper limit value in the column of “the upper limit” of the game history of the database54. This upper limit value is also sent to the game machine2.

The processing of the upper limit value setting after a big prize is terminated by executing the foregoing sequence of processing.

As described above, the game machine producing higher game characteristics to the player may be provided by properly changing the upper limit value that is employed as a standard for the return. In the game machine constructed so as to notify the degree of the upper limit, the next following upper limit value is clearly displayed to the player, thereby enabling him to perform a game without anxiety. In addition, if the next upper limit value is set at a high value, the player can decide whether he should continue the game or not.

10. Flow of Notification Judgment Processing

The notification in the notification determination process shown inFIG. 6(step S26) may mean to notify the player that i) the game media (e.g., the number of medals) thrown in the game machine2reaches the upper limit; or ii) how many throw-in medals are necessary for reaching the upper limit (in order words, a difference from the upper limit).

This notification may be achieved with the following method that the amount necessary for reaching the upper limit value is indicated by the digital score indicator19disposed on the front panel4of the game machine2. For instance, assuming that the number of medals represents the upper limit value, the player should be notified in the following manner. When a gap from the upper limit is indicated, the number of medals insufficient for the upper limit is flashing on and off (blinking) with the display of the score indicator19. When it is indicated that the upper limit is reached, an indication is also flashing on and off with the display of the score indicator19. Although in this preferred embodiment, the digital score indicator is employed as notification means, for example, a liquid crystal display for indication may be attached to the front panel4. In this instance, it is preferable to provide more effective indication of the upper limit arrival on the liquid crystal display. As an example of representation, an expressive character appears on the display.

Although the instance of indicating the number of medals insufficient for the upper limit will be described hereafter, without limiting to this, any indication manner may be employed which is capable of indicating apparently a gap between the upper limit and cumulative credit consumption. There are for example the following manners of: i) indicating both of a predetermined upper limit value and cumulative credit consumption; and ii) indicating a gap to the upper limit by a rate of cumulative credit consumption to a predetermined upper limit (i.e., one that expresses the degree of cumulative consumption in percentage).

FIG. 14is a flowchart showing the flow of operation when the notification is determined.

The server1determines whether a notification having contents as described above should be executed to a certain game machine2, on the basis of the fact that a game is being performed on this game machine2. In other words, if a game machine with which no game is being performed receives such a notification that there is an extremely large gap to the upper limit on this game machine, a certain player who is going to perform a game on this game machine may, in all probability, give up the game due to this notification. Accordingly, the changeover between indication and non-indication of notification aims at avoiding the above situation and producing higher game characteristics.

Referring toFIG. 14, the server1firstly determines a play status of the game machine2(step S100). This play status determination is achieved by detecting whether a card is inserted in the card inlet22disposed in the game machine2. As stated above, this card may be an identification card storing the player's personal information, or a prepaid card, or the like in order to purchase a certain amount of game medium before performing a game. This preferred embodiment will be described as applied to the instance of using the above-mentioned identification card.

A card reader23for detecting a card insertion is provided with the game machine2. Specifically, the ROM36stores a program to be executed according to an instruction of the CPU33. Under this program, it is determined that a game is being performed if the card reader23detects a card, and that no game is performed if the card reader23detects no card.

In this manner, by using the card reader23it is determined whether the game machine2is in play (step S101). As described above, a card will be detected if the game machine2is in play, and no card will be detected if it is not in play. The CPU33of the game machine2executes this card detection. This card detection result (a card detection signal) is sent to the server1via the communication interface circuit41, network NT, and the communication interface53of the server1. As a card detection signal, the value of “1” is sent as data when a card is detected, and the value of “0” is sent as data when no card is detected.

Upon completion of above-mentioned card detection processing, the server1reads the player's information and adds the game medium throw-in number (step S102). The number of medals as a game medium is, as described above, a standard for determining whether the upper limit value should be indicated. The medal sensor in the vicinity of the throw-in slot15of the game machine2detects throw-in medals, and the detected throw-in number is stored in the RAM37according to an instruction of the CPU33. The past throw-in number data is stored in the RAM37. The CPU33reads this data and adds the current throw-in number thereto, thereby updating the throw-in number data. This updated throw-in number data is stored in the RAM37. At a predetermined timing, the cumulative throw-in number data stored in the RAM37is sent to the server1via the communication interface circuit41, network NT, and the communication interface53of the server1. The sent data is stored in the memory52, based on an instruction of the CPU51.

The CPU33of the game machine2performs processing for adding the game medium throw-in number, to obtain data indicating its cumulative throw-in number. Upon receipt of this data, the server1determines whether the cumulative throw-in number reaches 60% or more of the upper limit value (step S103).

As used herein, the expression “60% or more of the upper limit value” is a standard amount for determining whether a gap to the upper limit with a game machine2should be displayed on the display part19of this game machine2. The numerical value of “60%” is for the purposes of illustration only and is not to be constructed as a limiting value. It is however preferred to use at least a numerical value of slightly exceeding half the upper limit, in view of the player's psychological lift.

The CPU33of the game machine2determines whether the cumulative throw-in number reaches 60% or more of the upper limit value. If the CPU33determines that the cumulative throw-in number does not reach 60% or more of the upper limit value, the game machine2returns the processing to step S102and performs a process for adding the number of throw-in game media (corresponding to medals in this preferred embodiment). On the other hand, if it is determined that it reaches the 60% or more, the game machine2displays the amount insufficient for the upper limit (step S104).

As used herein, the amount insufficient for upper limit may be an amount for indicating how many throw-in medals are required to reach the upper limit value that has been set in step S21(seeFIG. 6). Processing for indicating the amount insufficient for upper limit is executed under a program stored in the ROM36, based on an instruction of the CPU33. Specifically, the amount insufficient for the upper limit is calculated (i.e., a numerical value to be calculated by subtracting the cumulative throw-in number from the upper limit value) and the numerical value is displayed on the display part19of the game machine2.

By executing the foregoing processing, the player performing a game with a certain game machine is unaware of a gap to the upper limit with this game machine from the beginning of the game to the arrival at a predetermined status. The player will therefore continue playing the game with excitement, thereby providing the game machine of high game characteristics.

Upon completion of the above-mentioned processing for displaying the amount insufficient for upper limit, the game machine2adds the next game medium throw-in number (step S105).

The number of medals as a game medium is a standard for determining whether the upper limit value should be displayed. The medal sensor of the game machine2detects throw-in medals, and data of this throw-in number is stored in the RAM37according to an instruction of the CPU33. The CPU33executes the following processes for i) reading the past throw-in number data stored in the RAM37; ii) adding the current throw-in number to update this data; and iii) directing the RAM37to store the updated data. The cumulative throw-in number data stored in the RAM37is sent to the server1at a predetermined timing. The sent data is stored in the memory52based on an instruction of the CPU51.

The CPU33of the game machine2performs processing for adding the game medium throw-in number, to obtain data indicating its cumulative throw-in number. Upon receipt of this data, the server1determines whether the cumulative throw-in number reaches 80% or more of the upper limit value (step S106).

As used herein, the 80% or more of the upper limit value is a standard amount for determining whether the display status of the gap to the upper limit with a game machine2, which has been in effect on the display part19of this game machine2in the above-mentioned processing for displaying the amount insufficient for upper limit (step S104), should be changed to the non-display status. The numerical value of 80% is for the purposes of illustration only and is not to be constructed as a limiting value. In view of the player's psychological rise, it is preferred to use such numerical values giving the player the impression that it is short way to the upper limit.

The CPU33of the game machine2determines whether the cumulative throw-in number reaches 80% or more of the upper limit value. If the CPU33determines that the cumulative throw-in number does not reach 80% or more of the upper limit value, the game machine2returns the processing to step S105and performs a process for adding the number of throw-in game media (corresponding to medals in this preferred embodiment). On the other hand, if it is determined that it reaches the 80% or more, the game machine2does not display the amount insufficient for upper limit (step S107). This non-display of the amount insufficient for the upper limit is executed under a program stored in the ROM36based on an instruction of the CPU33. As the result, the display status of the gap to the upper limit on the display part19of the game machine2is changed to the non-display status.

In the case that no card is detected in step S101, the upper limit value is not displayed, either (step S108).

By executing the foregoing processing, in the absence of player performing a game with a certain game machine, the display state is changed to the state of displaying no information about a gap to the upper limit on this game machine. It is therefore avoidable that a certain player who is going to perform a game with this game machine decides to start a game by checking the upper limit value displayed on the game machine.

11. Operations and Effects

The foregoing preferred embodiment produces mainly the following operations and effects.

(1) In the collective control of plural game machines placed in the same parlor, each game machine detects player change and the cumulative credit consumption on each game machine is managed player by player. Therefore, when the cumulative credit consumption of a certain player reaches a predetermined upper limit, the payout return can be executed to this player. This ensures the return per player, thereby permitting the player to perform a game without anxiety and also inducing the player to continue the game until the return is executed.

(2) The predetermined upper limit value may be changed properly. Thereby, the player performs a game while having the upper limit value on his mind. Therefore, compared to the case of fixing the upper limit value, the player can enjoy more thrilling game, and high game characteristics can be produced.

(3) In spite of the game machine with which the player can perform a game without anxiety, high game characteristics are maintained. It is therefore possible to avoid losing customers, which occurs in the conventional game machine.

While but one embodiment of the invention has been shown and described, it will be understood that many changes and modifications may be made therein without departing from the spirit or scope of the present invention.

There are, for example, the following modifications:

(1) Although the identification card is used for determining whether a game machine is in play, the above-mentioned prepaid card may be used for determining the play status. Preferably, the prepaid card stores an identification number data. In the use of a prepaid card storing no identification number data, although it is hard to identify the player, if it is determined that a game machine is not in play according to a detection signal of the card reader, the game machine can be brought into the non-display status. If it is determined that it is in play, the game machine can be brought into the display status.

(2) Although only as to whether a predetermined upper limit value should be notified or not is mentioned, if it is possible to know a gap between the cumulative credit consumption of the player and the upper limit, the display of this gap can be switched between the display status and non-display status. As a specific means for detecting the above-mentioned gap, for example, the following method may be employed: i) displaying both of a predetermined upper limit value and a cumulative credit consumption; or ii) displaying a gap to the upper limit by a rate of cumulative credit consumption to a predetermined upper limit (i.e., one that expresses the degree of cumulative consumption in percentage).