GAME MACHINE

A game machine includes a performance device configured to be able to provide various performances corresponding to a progress of a game. The performance device includes a first object configured to be able to move; a mover configured to move the first object; and a second object configured to be able to hide the first object from a player. The first object can move between a first position where the first object is covered by the second object that is located in a predetermined position and a second position where the first object is not covered by the second object. When a predetermined requirement is met, the mover moves the first object from the first position to the second position.

DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS

Now, an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

<The Configuration of a Game Machine>

First, the configuration of a game machine1according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference toFIG. 1toFIG. 3.FIG. 1is an exemplary front view showing the game machine.FIG. 2is an exemplary drawing showing the inner structure of a cabinet2.FIG. 3is an exemplary drawing showing the rear surface of a front door.

The game machine1according to the present embodiment includes the cabinet2, the front door3and so forth. Here, the game machine1is equivalent to “game machine” recited in the appended claims. Hereinafter, “front” “back” “right” and “left” are defined as being viewed from the front side of the game machine1.

A cabinet2is formed of an approximately rectangular box, and has an opening in its front side. A hinge mechanism2aprovided on the front left side of the cabinet2pivotally supports a front door3to open and close the front door3.

The keyhole4is provided in the middle of the right edge of the front door3to lock and unlock the front door3. Here, when a staff member of a game parlor does maintenance work or changes the setting value and so forth, the staff member unlocks and locks a lock device (not shown) provided in the front door3. First, a dedicated key (not shown) is inserted into the key hole4in the front door3to unlock and open the front door3, and then the maintenance work is done, and the setting value are changed. After that, when the maintenance work and the change in the setting value are finished, the dedicated key is inserted into the key hole4to lock the front door3.

Side lamps5aand5bare provided on the right and left edges of the front door3, and each of which includes a plurality of super bright LEDs. In addition, these side lamps5aand5bare designed to have shapes, colors, patterns, pictures and so forth which appeal to the player's eyes. During an ART (assist replay time) state, lighting or blinking control is performed by a sub-control board400during a predetermined performance or demonstration at a predetermined time, so that a performance is presented. Hereinafter, the side lamps5aand5bmay be collectively referred to as “side lamps5”.

A medal insertion slot6is provided in the right side of a numerical keyboard19and used to insert medals by the player.

A one-bet button7is provided below a start lamp23to use one of credited medals for a game.

A max-bet button8is provided on the right side of the one-bet button7to use the maximum number of credited medals available for one game. Here, with the present embodiment, the maximum number of medals for one game is three. Hereinafter, the one-bet button7and the max-bet button8may be collectively referred to as “bet buttons7and8.”

An adjustment button9is provided below the start lamp23to adjust the credited ones of the medals acquired by the player. Here, with the present embodiment, the maximum number of creditable medals is fifty.

A start lever10is provided on the right side of the adjustment button9to detect a game start operation by the player. Here, based on the detection of the start operation, a random number value may be sampled by a main control board300, and spins of a left reel17a, a center reel17band a right reel17cmay be started. In addition, a knob of the start lever10is made of translucent resin, and includes a start lever performance lamp42. Then, a sub-control board400controls the lighting and blinking of the start lever performance lamp42, based on that a predetermined requirement is met. By this means, it is possible to present a performance which appeals to the player's eyes.

<Left Stop Button11, Middle Stop Button12, Right Stop Button13, and Stop Button Unit14>

A left stop button11, a middle stop button12and a right stop button13are provided on the right side of the start lever10and unitized by the stop button unit14. Also, the left stop button11, the middle stop button12and the right stop button13are provided to detect a stop operation by the player to stop a left reel17a, a middle reel17band a right reel17cfrom spinning. Hereinafter, the left stop button11, the middle stop button12and the right stop button13may be collectively referred to as “stop buttons11,12and13.” In addition, the stop buttons11,12and13include stop button performance lamps (not shown), respectively. Then, the sub-control board400controls the lighting and blinking of the stop button performance lamp, based on that a predetermined requirement is met. By this means, it is possible to present a performance which appeals to the player's eyes.

A return button15is provided on the right side of the stop button unit14. When a medal inserted into the medal insertion slot6is jammed in a selector16, the return button15is used to return the jammed medal.

The selector16is provided in the medal insertion slot6to determine whether or not the material and shape of the medal inserted into the medal insertion slot6is appropriate. A medal sensor16sis provided in the selector16to detect an appropriate medal passing through. Then, when the medal sensor16sdetermines that the medal inserted into the medal insertion slot6is appropriate, a hopper guide member522guides this appropriate medal to a hopper520. On the other hand, when the medal sensor16sdetermines that the medal inserted into the medal insertion slot6is not appropriate, a guide member523ejects the medal from a medal payout slot33.

The left reel17a, the middle reel17band the right reel17care provided in the cabinet2and each has a cylindrical structure. In addition, a translucent sheet is attached to the peripheral surface of the cylindrical structure of each of the left reel17a, the middle reel17band the right reel17c, and has a plurality of kinds of symbols which are arranged in a line. Then, stepping motors101,102and103are excited to spin the left reel17a, the middle reel17band the right reel17c, so that a plurality kinds of symbols on each reel are sequentially displayed as the reel is spinning. With the present embodiment, the left reel17a, the middle reel17band the right reel17care unitized as a reel unit17dand easily attached to and detached from the game machine1. Hereinafter, the left reel17a, the middle reel17band the right reel17cmay be collectively referred to as “reels17”.

A performance button18is provided on the right side of the max-bet button8and used to control a liquid crystal (LC) display device41by the sub-control board400when the player's operation is detected during a predetermined performance. Here, the performance button18may not be provided, but the one-bet button7and the max-bet button8may serve as the performance button18. In this case, a command is sent to the sub-control board400based on that the one-bet button7or the max-bet button8is operated, and the sub-control board400controls the LC display device41, based on that the sub-control board400has received the command. By this means, the performance button18does not need to be provided separately, so that it is possible to reduce the number of parts. In addition, a performance button lamp (not shown) is built in the performance button18. Then, the sub-control board400controls the lighting and blinking of the performance button lamp, based on that a predetermined requirement is met. By this means it is possible to present a performance which appeals to the player's eyes.

A numerical keypad19is provided on the right side of the performance button18and can be pushed in at least two directions (usually in four directions) to accept the player's operation.

A panel20is provided to display performance lamps22ato22j, a start lamp23, bet lamps24ato24c, an accumulated medal number display25, a game state display lamp26, a payout number display27, an insertion possible display lamp28, a replay display lamp29, and stop operation order display lamps30ato30c. In addition, a display window21is provided in the panel20to allow the left reel17a, the middle reel17band the right reel17cto be seen and recognized.

Performance lamps22ato22jare provided on the rear surface of the translucent portions of the panel20on its right and left edges and are lit under predetermined requirements to inform the current state (for example, an ART state). The performance lamps22ato22eare provided on the left side of the display window21, and the performance lamps22fto22jare provided on the right side of the display window21. Hereinafter, the performance lamps22ato22jmay be collectively referred to as “performance lamps22.”

The start lamp23is provided above the one-bet button7to inform whether or not it is possible to accept the start operation of the start lever10. To be more specific, in a case in which three medals are inserted into the medal insertion slot6, or in a case in which the max-bet button8is operated while the number of accumulated medals is three, the start lamp23is lit to inform that it is possible to accept the start operation by the start lever10.

The bet lamps24ato24care provided on the right side of the start lamp23to inform the number of inserted medals to be used for a game. To be more specific, when the number of inserted medals is one, the bet lamp24ais lit; when the number of inserted medals is two, the bet lamp24bis lit; and when the number of inserted medals is three, the bet lamp24cis lit. Hereinafter, the bet lamps24ato24cmay be collectively referred to as “bet lamps24”.

The accumulated medal number display25is provided on the right side of the bet lamp24. Also the accumulated medal number display25is provided to display the number of medals which belong to the player and are accumulated in the game machine1.

The game state display lamps26aand26bare provided on the right side of the accumulated medal number display25. The main control board300controls the lighting of the game state display lamps26aand26b, so that the current game state is informed. Hereinafter, the game state display lamps26aand26bmay be collectively referred to as “game state display lamps26”.

The payout number display27is provided on the right side of the game state display lamp26b. The payout number display27is provided to display the number of medals to be paid out according to the number of medals inserted into the medal insertion slot6, or a combination of the symbols arranged on a pay line which is enabled by operating the one-bet button7or the max-bet button8. Here, with the present embodiment, three symbols are displayed for each of the left reel17a, the middle reel17band the right reel17cin the display window21. Here, the pay line means a falling diagonal line from left to right obtained by connecting the symbol of the upper stage of the left reel17a, the symbol of the middle stage of the middle reel17band the symbol of the lower stage of the right reel17c.

Hereinafter, the straight line obtained by connecting the symbol of the upper stage of the left reel17a, the symbol of the upper stage of the middle reel17band the symbol of the upper stage of the right reel17cmay be referred to as “upper stage” or “upper stage line.” In addition, the straight line obtained by connecting the symbol of the middle stage of the left reel17a, the symbol of the middle stage of the middle reel17band the symbol of the middle stage of the right reel17cmay be referred to as “middle stage” or “middle stage line.” Moreover, the straight line obtained by connecting the symbol of the lower stage of the left reel17a, the symbol of the lower stage of the middle reel17band the symbol of the lower stage of the right reel17cmay be referred to as “lower stage” or “lower stage line.” Furthermore, the straight line obtained by connecting the symbol of the lower stage of the left reel17a, the symbol of the middle stage of the middle reel17band the symbol of the upper stage of the right reel17cmay be referred to as “diagonally right up” or “a rising diagonal line from left to right.”

The insertion possible display lamp28is provided on the right side of the payout number display27. The insertion possible display lamp28is lit to inform that it is possible to accumulate the medal which has just been inserted into the medal insertion slot6. Meanwhile, the insertion possible display lamp28is turned off to inform that it is not possible to accumulate the medal which has just been inserted into the medal insertion slot6.

Here, with the present embodiment, the maximum number of medals that can be credited is “50”. Therefore, when the number of the accumulated medals is smaller than “50”, the main control board30performs the control to light the insertion possible display lamp28, and, meanwhile, when the number of the accumulated medals is “50”, the main control board30performs the control to turn off the insertion possible display lamp28. In addition, when a combination of symbols that is associated with “replay” (described later) is displayed on the pay line, the main control board30performs the control to turn off the insertion possible display lamp28.

<Stop Operation Order Display Lamps30ato30c>

The stop operation order display lamps30ato30care provided below the display window21. To be more specific, the stop operation order display lamp30ais provided below the left reel17a; the stop operation order display lamp30bis provided below the middle reel17b; and the stop operation order display lamp30ais provided below the right reel17c. In addition, the stop operation order display lamps30ato30care provided to inform the player of the optimum order to stop the left stop button11, the middle stop button12and the right stop button13, based on a win area determined by the main control board300. To be more specific, at the optimum time to stop the left stop button11, the stop operation order display lamp30ais lit or blinked; at the optimum time to stop the middle stop button12, the stop operation order display lamp30bis lit or blinked; and at the optimum time to stop the right stop button13, the stop operation order display lamp30cis lit or blinked. By this means, the player is informed of the order.

A waist part panel31is provided below the stop button unit14to allow the player to recognize the model name, the motif and so forth of the game machine1. To be more specific, the illustrations of the characters are drawn on the waist part panel31. In addition, a light (not shown) is provided on the rear surface of the waist part panel31, and the sub-control board400controls the lighting of the light, so that the player can easily recognize the model name, the motif and so forth of the game machine1.

A tray unit32is provided below the waist part panel31to receive and accumulate the medals discharged from the medal payout slot33.

In a case in which medals are paid out based on the combination of symbols displayed on the pay line, when the hopper520is driven, the medal payout slot33is used to discharge the medals which the hopper has paid out. In addition, when the medal sensor16sdetermines that the medal inserted into the medal insertion slot6is not appropriate, or when a medal is inserted into the medal insertion slot6despite that the medal insertion slot6is not allowed to accept any medal, the medal payout slot33is used to discharge the medal inserted into the medal insertion slot6to the tray unit32.

Here, the case in which the medal insertion slot6is not allowed to accept any medal is, for example, a case in which the left reel17a, the middle reel17band the right reel17care spinning, or a case in which the combination of symbols which is associated with a replay is displayed on the pay line.

Lower speakers34aand34bare provided on the right and left sides of the medal payout slot33to output BGM, voice, and special effects during a performance. Hereinafter, the lower speakers34aand34bmay be collectively referred to as “lower speakers34”.

Upper speakers35aand35bare provided on the right and left sides of the LC display device41to output BGM, voice and special effects during a performance, like the lower speakers34aand34b. Hereinafter, the upper speakers35aand35bmay be collectively referred to as “upper speakers35”, and the lower speakers34aand34b, and the upper speakers35aand35bmay be referred to as “speakers34and35”.

A setting display part36is provided to display the current setting value. To be more specific, when a setting change key (not shown) is inserted into a key hole (not shown) and turned for a predetermined angle, the setting value which is currently set is displayed on the setting display part36under the control of the main control board300.

A setting change button37is provided to change setting values. Here, when a setting value is changed, first, a setting change key (not shown) is inserted into the key hole and rotated for a predetermined angle. Next, the setting change button37is operated so as to be able to change the setting value on the setting display part36. Then, when a value that is intended to be set as the setting value is displayed on the setting display part36by operating the setting change button37, the start lever10is operated to return the angle of the rotated setting change key to the angle that allows the setting change key to be taken out, so that it is possible to change the setting value.

Here, with the present embodiment, the setting value can be changed in six steps from “1” to “6”. When the setting change button37is operated while “1” is displayed on the setting display part36, “2” is displayed on the setting display part36. Subsequently, the setting value is incremented by one every time the setting change button37is operated. Here, when the setting change button37is operated while “6” is displayed on the setting display part36, “1” is displayed on the setting display part36.

The LC display device41is provided on the reels17to present performances with the displays of moving images and still images. In addition, the LC display device41is used to provide the information on the result of an internal lottery process (described later) and also provide information required to stop and display the combination of symbols for a win on the pay line. Here, the LC display device41is equivalent to “second object” recited in the appended claims.

In addition, with the present embodiment, a drive mechanism is provided that allows the LC display device41to move upward and downward. Here, another configuration is possible where a different object device (title bar641) from the LC display device41is provided and moves upward and downward with the LC display device41or independently. For example, this object device is usually located in the back surface side of the LC display device41, and the sub-control board400controls the object device such that the object device protrudes in front of the LC display device41based on that a predetermined requirement is met and covers the display area of the LC display device41. By this means, it is possible to provide various modes of the movement of the LC display device41with the object device. In addition, the LC display device41and the object device are coated with transparent resin, and therefore are protected from outside intrusion. The resin may be, for example, acrylate resin, reinforced plastic, polycarbonate and so forth.

The main control board300is provided above the reels17in the cabinet2to control the game machine1. The main control board300will be described in detail later.

The sub-control board400is provided in the upper part of the rear surface of the front door3to control the LC display device41, the speakers34and35. The sub-control board400will be described in detail later.

A power-supply unit510is provided in the cabinet2to supply a voltage to the game machine1.

The hopper520is provided in the cabinet2to pay out medals to the player. In addition, the drive of the hopper520is controlled based on a predetermined signal from the main control board300. The power-supply board500determines whether or not a predetermined number of medals has been discharged based on the medal sensor (not shown) provided on the hopper520, and, when determining that the predetermined number of medals has been discharged, transmits a signal indicating that the payout has been done to the main control board300. By this means, the main control board300can recognize that the payout has been done.

A discharge slit521is provided in the hopper520to discharge a medal from the hopper520.

The hopper guide member522is provided to guide a medal having just been inserted into the medal insertion slot6to the hopper520provided in the cabinet2when the medal sensor16sdetermines that the medal is appropriate.

When the medal insertion slot6receives an object different from a medal, or when the medal sensor16sdetermines that a medal having just been inserted into the medal insertion slot6is not appropriate, the guide member523guides the object or the inappropriate medal to the medal payout slot33.

A payout guide member524is provided to guide the medal discharged from the discharge slit521in the hopper520to the medal payout slot33in the tray unit32.

An auxiliary accumulating part530is provided to accommodate overflow medals from the hopper520.

Next, the configuration of the game machine1according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference toFIGS. 4A and 4B.

In the game machine1, a reel control board100, a rely board200, the sub-control board400and the power source board500are connected to the main control board300that controls main operations of the game machine1.

A main CPU301, a main ROM302, a main RAM303, a random number generator304and an I/F (interface) circuit305are connected to the main control board300.

The main CPU301reads a program stored in the main ROM302and performs predetermined arithmetic processing along with the progression of the game to transmit a predetermined signal to the reel control board100, the relay board200, the sub-control board400and the power-supply board500.

The main ROM302stores the control program performed by the main CPU301, data tables such as a win area determination table, and data to transmit a command to the sub-control board400.

The main RAM303includes a storage area to store various data determined by executing the program by the main CPU301. In addition, the main RAM303serves to temporarily store the result of the calculation by the main CPU301.

The random number generator304is provided to generate random numbers to determine a win area and so forth. Here, with the present embodiment, the random number generator304generates random number values within the range from “0” to “65535”.

The IF circuit305is provided to transmit and receive commands between the main control board300and the other boards, the reel control board100, the relay board200, the sub-control board400and the power-supply unit board500.

The following components are connected to the relay board200: a one-bet switch7sw; a max-bet switch8sw; an adjustment switch9sw; the start switch10sw; a left stop switch11sw; a middle stop switch12sw; a right stop switch13sw; the medal sensor16s; the start lamp23; the bet lamp24; the accumulated medal number display25; the game state display lamp26; the payout number display27; the insertion possible display lamp28; the replay display lamp29; the setting display36; and a setting change switch37sw.

The one-bet switch7swis provided to detect the one-bet button7being operated by the player. When the one-bet switch7swdetects the one-bet button7being operated by the player, the relay board200transmits a predetermined signal to the I/F circuit305in the main control board300. Then, the main CPU301controls such that the player uses one of the accumulated medals, based on that the I/F circuit305has received the predetermined signal from the relay board200.

The max-bet switch8swis provided to detect the max-bet button8being operated by the player. When the max-bet switch8swdetects the max-bet button8being operated by the player, the relay board200transmits a predetermined signal to the I/F circuit305in the main control board300. Then, the main CPU301controls such that the player uses three of the accumulated medals, based on that the I/F circuit305has received the predetermined signal from the relay board200. Hereinafter, the one-bet switch7swand the max-bet switch8swmay be collectively referred to as “bet switches7swand8sw.

The adjustment switch9swis provided to detect the adjustment button9being operated by the player. When the adjustment switch9swdetects the adjustment button9being operated by the player, the relay board200transmits a predetermined signal to the I/F circuit305in the main control board300. Then, the main CPU301outputs a signal to the hopper520in the power-supply board500to return the accumulated medals, based on that the I/F circuit305has received the predetermined signal from the relay board200, so that the hopper520returns the accumulated medals.

The start switch10swis provided to detect the start lever10being operated by the player. When the start switch10swdetects the start lever10being detected by the player, the relay board200transmits a predetermined signal to the I/F circuit305in the main control board300. Then, the main CPU301controls such that spin of the reels17is started, based on that the I/F circuit305has received the predetermined signal from the relay circuit200.

The left stop switch11swis provided to detect the left stop button11being operated by the player. When the left stop switch11swdetects the left stop button11being operated by the player, the relay board200transmits a predetermined signal to the I/F board305in the main control board300. Then, the main CPU301controls to stop the left reel17afrom spinning, based on that the I/F circuit305has received the predetermined signal from the relay board200.

The middle stop switch12swis provided to detect the middle stop button12being operated by the player. When the middle stop switch12swdetects the middle stop button12being operated by the player, the relay circuit200transmits a predetermined signal to the I/F circuit305in the main control board300. Then, the main CPU301controls to stop the middle reel17bfrom spinning, based on that the I/F circuit305has received the predetermined signal from the relay board200.

The right stop switch13swis provided to detect the right stop button13being operated by the player. When the right stop switch13swdetects the right stop button13being operated by the player, the relay board200transmits a predetermined signal to the I/F circuit305in the main control board300. Then, the main CPU301controls to stop the right reel17cfrom spinning, based on that the I/F circuit305has received the predetermined signal from the relay board200. Hereinafter, the left stop switch11sw, the middle stop switch12sw, and the right stop switch13swmay be collectively referred to as “stop switches11sw,12swand13sw.”

Here, with the present embodiment, the stop switches11sw,12swand13swcan detect the stop buttons11,12and13being turned on and off. Therefore, the stop switches11sw,12swand13swcan detect the stop buttons11,12and13being operated by the player, that is, the stop buttons11,12and13being turned on, and also detect the finger of the player releasing the stop buttons11,12and13, that is, the stop buttons11,12and13are turned off after the player operates the stop buttons11,12and13.

The medal sensor16sis provided to detect the medal inserted into the medal insertion slot6passing through the selector16. When the medal sensor16sdetects the medal successfully passing through the selector16, the relay board200transmits a predetermined signal to the I/F circuit305in the main control board300. Then, the main CPU301performs control for the medal insertion, based on that the I/F circuit305has received the predetermined signal from the relay board200.

The setting change switch37is provided to detect the setting change button37being operated. When the setting change switch37swdetects the setting change button37being operated, the relay board200transmits a predetermined signal to the I/F circuit305in the main control board300. Then, the main CPU301performs control for changing and displaying the setting value on the setting display part36, based on that the I/F circuit305has received the predetermined signal from the relay board200.

The power-supply unit510, the hopper520and an auxiliary fill-up sensor530sare connected to the power-supply board500.

The power-supply unit510includes a power-supply switch511swand a reset switch512sw. These switches are connected to the power-supply board500via the power-supply unit510.

The power-supply switch511swis provided to detect the power-supply button511being operated by a staff member of the game parlor. When the power-supply switch511swdetects the power-supply button511being operated by the staff member, the power-supply board500transmits a predetermined signal to the I/F circuit305in the main control board300. The power-supply board supplies a voltage to the entire game machine1, based on that the power-supply switch511swdetects the power-supply button511being operated by the staff member.

The reset switch512swis provided to detect the reset button512being operated by a staff member of the game parlor. When the reset switch512swdetects the reset button512being operated by the staff member, the power-supply board500transmits a predetermined signal to the I/F circuit305in the main control board300. By this means, it is possible to stop outputting an error signal and so forth, and therefore to recover from an error state.

The auxiliary fill-up sensor530sis provided to detect the number of medals accumulated in the auxiliary accumulation part530being above a predetermined number. When the auxiliary fill-up sensor530sdetects the number of medals accumulated in the auxiliary accumulation part530being above the predetermined number, the power-supply board500outputs a signal to indicate that the number of medals accumulated in the auxiliary accumulation part530is above the predetermined number, to the I/F circuit305in the main control board300. Then, when the I/F circuit305receives the signal indicating that the number of medals accumulated in the auxiliary accumulation part530is above the predetermined number, the main control board300performs control to display a predetermined error. Then, when the error is displayed, the player calls for a staff member of the game parlor, and then the staff member collects the medals and operates the reset button512, so that the error state is recovered to a normal state that can restart the game.

Stepping motors101,102and103, a left reel sensor111s, a middle reel sensor112sand a right reel sensor113sare connected to the reel control board100.

The stepping motors101,102and103are provided to spin the left reel17a, the middle reel17band the right reel17c, respectively. The momentum of each of the stepping motors101,102and103is proportional to the number of pulses, and its axis of rotation can be stopped at a designated angle. The driving forces of the stepping motors101,102and103are transmitted to the left reel17a, the middle reel17band the right reel17c, respectively, via a gear with a predetermined reduction gear ratio. By this means, the left reel17a, the middle reel17band the right reel17cspin at a predetermined angle every time a pulse is outputted to the stepping motors101,102and103. Here, the main CPU301controls the spin angles of the left reel17a, the middle reel17band the right reel17cby detecting the reel index and then counting the number of times the pulses are outputted to the stepping motors101,102and103.

The left reel sensor ills includes an optical sensor having a light-emitting part and a light-receiving part, and is configured to detect the reel index indicating that the left reel17aspins through 360 degrees.

The middle reel sensor112sincludes an optical sensor having a light-emitting part and a light-receiving part, and is configured to detect the reel index indicating that the middle reel17bspins through 360 degrees.

The right reel sensor113sincludes an optical sensor having a light-emitting part and a light-receiving part, and is configured to detect the reel index indicating that the right reel17cspins through 360 degrees.

The sub-control board400principally controls performances. The following components are connected to the sub-control board400: a performance control board410; an image control board420; a sound control board430; the side lamp5; a performance button detection switch18sw; a numerical keyboard detection switch19sw; the performance lamps22; the stop operation order display lamps30; and the LED board54. Here, with the present embodiment, in addition to the game states such as an RT game state, which are controlled by the main control board300, there are also provided the game states such as “bonus state” and “ART state” as special game states, which are controlled by the sub-control board400. Moreover, with the present embodiment, various performances are provided based on the states controlled by the sub-control board400.

The performance button detection switch18swis provided to detect the performance button18being operated by the player. When the performance button detection switch18swdetects the performance button18being operated by the player, the sub-control board400performs the control based on the operation of the performance button18by the player.

The numerical keyboard detection switch19swis provided to detect the numerical keyboard19being operated by the player. When the numerical keyboard detection switch19swdetects the numerical keyboard19being operated by the player, the sub-control board400performs the control based on the operation of the numerical keyboard19by the player.

The start lever performance lamp42includes super bright LEDs, and is provided to present a performance that appeals to the player's eyes, based on that a predetermined requirement is met. Here, the sub-control board400controls the lighting and blinking of the start lever performance lamp42, based on that the predetermined requirement is met, for example, a predetermined win area is determined in internal lottery processing described later.

Primarily in a performance, the performance control board410controls, the side lamp5, the performance button detection switch18sw, the performance lamp22, the stop operation order display lamps30, and the start lever performance lamp42. An I/F circuit411, a sub-CPU412, a random number generator413, a sub-ROM414and a sub-RAM415are connected to the performance control board410.

The I/F circuit411is provided to receive signals and so forth from the I/F circuit305in the main control board300.

The sub-CPU412reads a performance program stored in the sub-ROM414, performs a predetermined calculation based on a command from the main control board300, and input signals from the performance button detection switch18swand the numerical keyboard detection switch19sw, and supplies the result of the calculation to the image control board420and the sound control board430.

The random number generator413is provided to generate random numbers that are used to determine performances presented by the LC display device41, and the speakers34and35. In addition, the random number generator413generates random numbers that are used for a lottery to move into an ART state, and also used to determine the number of additional games for the ART state.

The sub-ROM414is provided to store a program to execute performances, a performance table, an ART lottery table and so forth. The sub-ROM414is mainly constituted by a program storage area and a table storage area.

The sub-RAM415functions as a work area for data when the sub-CPU412performs arithmetic processing. To be more specific, the sub-RAM415includes a storage area for storing various data on a win area and so forth transmitted from the main control board300, and a storage area for storing the determined performance content and performance data. The sub-RAM415includes an ART storage area for storing the ART state and an ART game storage area for storing the number of ART games.

The image control board420is provided to control the display of the LC display device41mainly for executing a performance. The following components are connected to the image control board420: a video display processor (VDP)421; an LC control CPU422a; an LC control ROM422b; an LC control RAM422c; a frame counter422d; a CGROM423; a crystal oscillator424; a VRAM425and an RTC device426.

The video display processor (VDP)421is a sort of image processor, and configured to perform control to read image data from “display frame buffer area”, which is one of the first frame buffer area and the second frame buffer area, based on a command from the LC control CPU422a. Then, the video display processor421generates a video signal (e.g. an LVDS signal or RGB signal) and outputs the signal to a general-purpose board38to display an image on the LC display device41. Here, the video display processor (VDP)421includes a control register, a CG bus I/F, a CPU I/F, a clock generation circuit, an expansion circuit, a drawing circuit, a display circuit, and a memory controller (not shown). They are connected to the video display processor421via a bus. In addition, the video display processor421performs control to operate an LC drive unit610and a bar unit630, based on a command from the LC control CPU422a.

The LC control CPU422ais provided to create a display list based on a command received from the performance control board410, and transmit the display list to the video display processor (VDP)421. In addition, the LC control CPU422aperforms control to display the image data stored in the CGROM423on the LC display device41.

The LC control ROM422bincludes a mask ROM and so forth and stores a program for control processing of the LC control CPU422a, a display list generation program, animation patterns for displaying the animation of performance patterns, animation scene information and so forth. Here, the animation patterns are referred to display the animation of a performance pattern. The LC control ROM422bstores combinations of pieces of animation scene information included in the performance pattern and also stores the display order of the pieces of animation scene information. In addition, the animation scene information may include await frame (display time), target data (the identification number of the sprite, the source address and so forth), parameters (the display position of the sprite, the destination address and so forth), a drawing method, information that designates a display device for displaying the performance image.

The LC control RAM422cis built in the LC control CPU422a. The LC control RAM422cfunctions as a work area for data when the LC control CPU422aperforms arithmetic processing, and is provided to temporarily store the data read from the LC control ROM422b.

The frame counter422dis supplied with electric power from the power-supply board500to count a frame counter value. When the power-supply board500stops supplying electric power, the frame counter422dstops counting the frame counter value. Then, when the power-supply board500resumes the supply of electric power, the frame counter422dresets the frame counter value registered in the register and resumes counting.

The CGROM (character generator read only memory)423is constituted by a flash memory, an EEPROM (electrically erasable programmable read only memory), an EPROM (erasable programmable read only memory), a mask ROM and so forth. The CGROM423compresses and stores image data (e.g. sprite data, movie data) constituted by a group of pixel information within a predetermined pixel range (e.g. 32×32 pixels). This pixel information is constituted by color number information designating the color number for each pixel and a value indicating the transparency of the image. In the CGROM423, the video display processor421reads an image in units of image data, and image processing is performed in units of frame image data. Moreover, the CGROM423stores palette data in which the color number information designating the color number is associated with display color information for actually displaying the color in an uncompressed way.

Here, although with the present embodiment, the CGROM423stores the palette data in an uncompressed way, it is by no means limiting. Part of the pallet data may be compressed. In addition, to compress movies, various compression technologies, such as MPEG 4 are applicable.

The crystal oscillator424is provided to output a pulse signal (V-blank interrupt signal> to the video display processor421every “ 1/60 seconds (about 16.6 ms).” Also the video display processor421divides the frequency of the pulse signal to generate a system clock for the control and a synchronizing signal to synchronize with the LC display device41. Then, upon detecting the V-blank interrupt signal, the video display processor421outputs a performance timing information signal to the LC control CPU422aat a predetermined time, based on the V-blank interrupt signal.

An SRAM (Static Random Access Memory) may be used as the VRAM425. Here, the SRAM may be a readable and writable memory and a sort of volatile memory for temporarily storing data. Since the VRAM425includes a SRAM, it is possible to realize the high-speed processing to write and read image data. In addition, the VRAM425has a memory map constituted of an optional area, a display list area1, a display list area2, a frame buffer area1and a frame buffer area2.

The RTC device426is provided to count a predetermined count value at an interval that is different from the interval of the frame counter422d. The RTC device426is connected to the LC control CPU422ain the image control board420via a bus. The RTC device426is provided to acquire the current date and time.

The general-purpose board38is provided between the image control board420and the LC device41, and has a bridge function to transform image data in a predetermined format and output it for display. The bridge function of the general-purpose board38also can transform image data in a format to support the performance of the LC display device41that displays the image data. For example, it is possible to absorb the difference in resolution between when a 19-inch SXGA (1280×1024) LC display device is connected and when a 17-inch XGA (1024×768) LC display device is connected.

The sound control board430is provided to control the sound output of the speakers34and35mainly for executing a performance. A sound source IC431, a sound source ROM432, an audio RAM433and an amplifier434are connected to the sound control board430.

The sound source IC431is provided to read the program and data regarding the audio from the sound source ROM432and to generate an audio signal to drive the speakers34and35.

The sound source ROM432is provided to store a program and data for executing a performance. To be more specific, the sound source ROM432stores an audio program and audio data.

The audio RAM433is provided to generate sound such as BGM, based on sound data corresponding to the performance.

The amplifier434is provided to amplify an audio signal from the sound source IC431and outputs the amplified signal to the speakers34and35.

The LC drive unit610is controlled by the video display processor (VDP)421to move the LC display device41. To be more specific, the LC drive unit610is configured to move the LC display device41upward and downward according to a signal inputted from the video display processer421. The operation mechanism of the LC display device41by the LC drive unit610will be described later. Here, the LC drive unit610is equivalent to “second mover” recited in the appended claims.

The bar unit630is controlled by the video display processor421to move the title bar641. To be more specific, the bar unit630is configured to move the title bar641forward, backward, upward and downward according to a signal inputted from the video display processor421. The operation mechanism of the title bar641by the bar unit630will be described later. Here, the bar unit630is equivalent to “mover” recited in the appended claims.

Next, the LC drive unit610and the bar unit630will be described in detail.FIG. 14is a perspective view showing the LC display device41, the LC drive unit610and the bar unit630.FIG. 15Ais a perspective view showing the LC display device41and the LC drive unit630, separated from the bar unit630; andFIG. 15Bis a perspective view showing the bar unit630, separated from the LC display device41and the LC drive unit610.

As shown inFIG. 14,FIG. 15AandFIG. 15B, the LC drive unit610is provided on the back surface of the LC display device41. The bar unit630is provided to sandwich the LC drive unit610, and the title bar641is located on the lower part of the back surface of the LC display device41. With this arrangement, the title bar641is covered (hidden) by the LC display device41and cannot be seen from the player side in the default state. Here, as described later, the bar unit630includes a bar forward and backward drive unit640and a bar upward and downward drive unit650.

<Primary Parts of LC Display Device41and LC Drive Unit610>

Next, primary parts of the LC drive unit610will be described with reference toFIGS. 16A and 16B.FIG. 16Ais a perspective view showing primary parts of the LC display device41and the LC drive unit610from one side.FIG. 16Bis a perspective view showing the primary parts of the LC display device41and the LC drive unit610from the front side. Here,FIG. 16Bshows the LC drive unit610through the LC part of the LC display device41.

As shown in16B, the LC display device41is slidably mounted to a mechanism mounting base unit620fixed to the front door3of the game machine1. Here, the mechanism mounting base unit620is omitted fromFIG. 16Ain order to explain the drive mechanism of the LC drive unit610.

Here, the mechanism mounting base unit620includes an LC mobile mechanism mounting base621, a rail base622, a slide rail623, roller covers624and rollers625.

The LC mobile mechanism mounting base621is fixed to the front door3, and the LC display device41and the LC drive unit610are attached to the LC mobile mechanism mounting base621. The rail base622is fixed to the LC mobile mechanism mounting base621. The slide rail623is mounted to the rail base622and holds the LC display device41to be able to slide.

The roller cover624is fixed to the LC mobile mechanism mounting base621and has an opening. The roller625is accommodated in the roller cover624and pivotally supported. Part of the roller625protrudes from the opening of the roller cover624and contacts the LC display device41. A set of the roller cover624and the roller625is provided symmetrically in each of the left and right sides of the LC display device41.

Next, the LC display device41will be described in detail. The LC display device41includes an LC case601, LC bearings602, an LC arm pin603, a rail base604, a slide rail605, roller covers607and rollers608.

The LC case601accommodates an LC display that displays images. The LC bearings602are fixed to the back surface side of the LC case601. A pair of the LC bearings602is provided symmetrically in each of the left and right sides of the back surface of the LC case601. Here, the left LC bearing602and the right LC bearing602are the same as one another, so that only the LC bearing602that is in the right side, viewed from the front of the game machine1, will be described.

Likewise, hereinafter, when a pair of symmetric members is provided, only the right member will be described.

The front end of the LC bearing602branches into two, and sandwiches an LC drive arm615of the LC drive unit610therebetween.

The LC arm pin603penetrates a long hole615a(seeFIG. 17) provided in each of the LC drive arms615a, and fixed to the LC bearings602at each end. By this means, the LC display device41is held to be able to move in the long axis direction of the long hole615aof each of the LC drive arm615.

The rail base604is fixed to the LC case601. The slide rail605is fixed to the rail base604. In addition, the slide rail605in the LC side and the slide rail623in the mechanism mounting base unit620make a pair and can slide the LC display device41only in the direction in which the slide rail605in the LC side and the slide rail623in the base side extend. Hereinafter, the direction in which the slide rail605in the LC side and the slide rail623in the base side extend may be referred to as “slide direction.”

The bearing cover607is fixed to the back surface of the LC case601and has an opening. The roller608is accommodated in the roller cover607and pivotally supported. Part of the roller608protrudes from the opening of the roller cover607and contacts a guide base (not shown). Here, this guide base is parallel to the back surface of the LC case601and has a flat surface extending in the above-described slide direction. Here, the roller608in the LC side is mounted so as not to overlap the roller625in the base side.

A pair of the LC rollers608is provided symmetrically in the right and left sides of the LC case601. In addition, it is preferred that the center of the plurality of rollers608in the LC side and the center of the LC bearings602are arranged with respect to the center of gravity of the LC case601including the LC display. Here, the number of the rollers608in the LC side is not limited, but one or three or more is possible.

Also, a pair of the rollers625in the mechanism mounting base unit620is provided symmetrically in the right and left sides of the LC case601, like the rollers608. In addition, it is preferred that the center of the plurality of rollers625in the base side and the center of the LC bearings602are arranged with respect to are arranged with respect to are arranged with respect to the center of gravity of the LC case601including the LC display. Here, the number of the rollers625in the base side is not limited, but one or three or more is possible, in the same way as the rollers608in the LC side.

With this arrangement of the rollers608in the LC side and the rollers625in the base side, it is possible to maintain a certain distance between the LC case601and the mechanism mounting base unit602and to smoothly move the LC display device41in the slide direction without leaning.

The LC drive unit610includes an LC drive motor611, a first LC link gear612a, a second LC link gear612b, an LC drive worm gear613, an LC drive arm gear614, an LC drive arm615, a first LC photo sensor616, and a second LC photo sensor617.

The LC drive motor611is controlled by the video display processor421and rotated. The first LC link gear612is constituted by two gears, a large gear and a small gear. Here, the large gear is provided in the lower part of the first LC link gear612a, and the small gear is provided in the upper part. The large gear of the first LC link gear612aengages with the shaft of the LC drive motor611. By this means, the first LC link gear612ais rotated by the LC drive motor611.

The second LC link gear612bengages with the small gear of the first LC link gear612a. By this means, the second LC link gear612bis rotated by the first LC link gear612a.

The LC drive worm gear613is concentrically fixed to the second LC link gear612b. By this means, the LC drive worm gear613is rotated along with the rotation of the second LC link gear612b. In addition, the LC drive worm gear613is a kind of worm gear and has an outer periphery with a spiral groove.

Meanwhile, the LC drive arm gear614has an outer periphery with a gear-like shape and engages with the spiral groove of the LC drive worm gear613. Therefore, when the LC drive worm gear613rotates, the outer periphery of the LC drive arm gear614is moved together in the vertical direction, so that the LC drive arm gear614is rotated.

The LC drive arm615has a first end that is fixed to the outer periphery of the LC drive arm gear614and a second end having the above-described long hole615a. As described above, the LC arm pin603of the LC display device41penetrates the long hole615aof each of the LC drive arms615, so that it is possible to support the LC display device41to be able to move in the long axis direction of the long hole615a.

The first end of the LC drive arm615is fixed to the outer periphery of the LC drive arm gear614, and therefore when the LC drive arm gear614rotates, the LC drive arm615rotates along with the LC drive arm gear614. That is, the second end of the LC drive arm615moves around the same axis as the LC drive arm gear614in a circular motion.

The first LC photo sensor616includes a light transmitting part that transmits a light signal and a light receiving part that receives light. Part of the movement path of the LC drive arm615passes through between the light transmitting part and the light receiving part of the first LC photo sensor616to detect the default position of the CL drive arm615.

The second LC photo sensor617includes a light transmitting part that transmits a light signal and a light receiving part that receives light. Part of the movement path of the LC drive arm615passes through between the light transmitting part and the light receiving part of the second LC photo sensor617to detect the maximum position limit of the CL drive arm615.

With this arrangement of the first LC photo sensor616and the second LC photo sensor617, it is possible to detect the movement state of the LC drive arm615, that is, to detect the position to which the LC display device41has moved.

With the above-described configuration, when the video display processor421rotates the LC drive motor611, the first LC link gear612ais rotated and then the second LC link gear612bis rotated. When the second LC link gear612bis rotated, the LC drive worm gear613rotates, so that the LC drive arm gear614is rotated to move the second end of the LC drive arm615in the circular motion.

When the second end of the LC drive arm615is moved in the circular motion, the force is applied to the LC display device41accordingly. At this time, the LC display device41is allowed to move only in the slide direction, so that the LC arm pin603moves through the long hole615aof the LC drive arm615to move the LC display device41in the slide direction.

FIG. 17is a perspective view showing the LC display device41after being moved upward and the LC drive unit610. As shown inFIG. 17, the LC display device41is moved by the LC drive arm615of the LC drive unit610, from the default position to an upper position in the slide direction.

In addition, the first LC photo sensor616and the second LC photo sensor617can detect the position to which the LC display device41has been moved. Here, the LC display device41can be stopped or turned back on the way from the bottom position, as the default position, to the top position. Here, the bottom position which is the default position and the top position are equivalent to “predetermined position” and “second predetermined position” recited in the appended claims, respectively.

Next, primary parts of the bar unit630will be described. As described above, the bar unit630includes the bar forward and backward drive unit640and the bar upward and downward drive unit650.

<Bar Forward and Backward Drive Unit640>

First, the bar forward and backward drive unit640will be described.FIG. 18is a perspective view showing the bar forward and backward drive unit640.

As shown inFIG. 18, the bar forward and backward drive unit640includes the title bar641, a bar forward and backward slider642, a bar forward and backward arm guide643, a bar forward and backward drive motor644, a bar forward and backward arm645, a first bar forward and backward photo sensor647and a second bar forward and backward photo sensor648.

The title bar641is a gimmick that can move according to a predetermined requirement. The bar forward and backward slider642is connected to the title bar641to move together with the title bar641. The bar forward and backward slider642has a long hole642ain the forward and backward direction of the game machine1.

A bar roller holder661of the bar upward and downward drive unit650is fitted into the long hole642aof the bar forward and backward slider642, and therefore is supported to be able to move in the long axis direction of the long hole642abut not to be able to move in the minor axis direction. That is, the bar forward and backward slider642moves in an approximately forward and backward direction but in an approximately upward and downward direction of the game machine1, with respect to the bar roller holder661. In other words, the bar forward and backward slider642moves together with the bar roller holder661.

The bar forward and backward arm guide643is fixed to the bar forward and backward slider642to move together with the bar forward and backward slider642and the title bar641. The bar forward and backward arm guide643has a concave portion643aas a vertical hole.

The bar forward and backward drive motor644is controlled by the video display processor421and rotated. The bar forward and backward arm645is fixed to the bar forward and backward drive motor644and rotated by the bar forward and backward drive motor644. The front end of the bar forward and backward arm645is fitted into the concave portion643aof the bar forward and backward arm guide643. Therefore, when the bar forward and backward arm645rotates, the front end of the bar forward and backward arm645moves upward and downward in the concave portion643aof the bar forward and backward arm guide643to move the bar forward and backward arm guide643forward and backward.

The first bar forward and backward photo sensor647includes a light transmitting part that transmits a light signal and a light receiving part that receives light. Part of the movement path of the bar forward and backward arm guide643passes through between the light transmitting part and the light receiving part of the first bar forward and backward photo sensor647to detect the default position of the bar forward and backward arm guide643.

The second bar forward and backward photo sensor648includes a light transmitting part that transmits a light signal and a light receiving part that receives light. Part of the movement path of the bar forward and backward arm guide643passes through between the light transmitting part and the light receiving part of the second bar forward and backward photo sensor648to detect the maximum position limit of the bar forward and backward arm guide643.

With this arrangement of the first bar forward and backward photo sensor647and the second bar forward and backward photo sensor648, it is possible to detect the movement state of the bar forward and backward arm guide643, that is, to detect the position to which the title bar641has been moved forward or backward.

With the above-described configuration, when the bar forward and backward drive motor644is rotated by the video display processor421, the bar forward and backward arm645is rotated. Accordingly, the bar forward and backward arm guide643is moved in the forward and backward direction, and therefore the bar forward and backward slider642and the title bar641which are integrated with the bar forward and backward arm guide643are moved in the forward and backward direction. Therefore, the bar forward and backward drive motor644is rotated by the video display processor421, so that it is possible to move the title bar641in the forward and backward direction.

FIG. 19is a perspective view showing the title bar641after being moved forward and the bar unit630. As shown inFIG. 19, the title bar641is moved by the bar forward and backward arm645of the bar forward and backward drive unit640, from the default position to a forward position.

In addition, the first bar forward and backward photo sensor647and the second bar forward and backward photo sensor648can detect the position to which the title bar641has been moved. Here, the title bar641can be stopped or turned back on the way from the back position, as the default position, to the front position. The back position (i.e. default position) is equivalent to “first position” recited in the appended claims.

<Bar Upward and Downward Drive Unit650>

Next, primary parts of the bar upward and downward drive unit650will be described.FIG. 20is a perspective view showing the bar upward and downward drive unit650.FIGS. 21A and 21Bare drawings each showing part of the exploded bar upward and downward drive unit650.

As shown inFIG. 20andFIGS. 21A and 21B, the bar upward and downward drive unit650includes a bar upward and downward drive motor651, a bar upward and downward motor gear652, a bar upward and downward cam gear653, a bar upward and downward arm654, a bar arm link655, a bar upward and downward guide bush656, a bar slide bush657, a bar upward and downward guide base658, a bar link shaft659, a bar upward and downward plate660, a bar roller holder661, a first bar upward and downward photo sensor662and a second bar upward and downward photo sensor663.

The bar upward and downward drive motor651is controlled by the video display processor421and rotated. The bar upward and downward motor gear652is an external gear and has the central axis fixed to the shaft of the bar upward and downward drive motor651. By this means, the bar upward and downward motor gear652is rotated along with the rotation of the bar upward and downward drive motor651.

The bar upward and downward cam gear653includes an outer periphery having a semicircular gear part with external teeth engaging with the bar upward and downward motor gear652; and an arm part that has the same axis as the gear part and extends in the direction opposite to the gear part. In addition, the front end of the arm part of the bar upward and downward cam gear653has a protrusion. When the bar upward and downward motor gear652rotates, this protrusion of the arm part of the bar upward and downward cam gear653moves in a circle.

The bar upward and downward arm654has an arm-like shape and is pivotally supported at one end. In addition, the bar upward and downward arm654includes a long holes654aand654b. In the part of the bar upward and downward arm654from the center to the front end, the long hole654ais formed near the center and the long hole654bis formed near the front end. Moreover, the protrusion of the bar upward and downward cam gear653is fitted into the long hole654aof the bar upward and downward arm654.

By this means, when the protrusion of the bar upward and down ward cam gear653moves in a circle around the shaft of the bar upward and downward cam gear653, the bar upward and downward arm654rotates on its axis.

The bar arm link655, the bar upward and downward guide bush656, and the bar slide bush657move together in an approximately vertical direction. The bar upward and downward bush656is attached to the bar arm link655and fitted into the long hole654bof the bar upward and downward arm654.

The bar slide bush657is formed of a rectangle with rounded corners and has each end attached to the bar arm link655. Here, the rectangle with rounded corners means a rectangle whose narrow sides are formed of semicircles. Here, the shape of the bar slide bush657is not limited to a rectangle with rounded corners, but a rectangle, an ellipse and another shape may be applicable.

In addition, the bar slide bush657is fitted into a long hole658aof the bar upward and downward guide base658such that the long axis direction of the corner-rounded rectangle matches the long axis direction of the long hole658a. The long hole658aof the bar upward and downward guide base658has a long axis in an approximately vertical direction.

By this means, when the bar upward and downward arm654rotates on its axis, the bar upward and downward guide bush656moves together with the bar upward and downward arm654and the bar slide bush is allowed to move only in the vertical direction, so that the bar arm link655moves in an approximately vertical direction.

The bar upward and downward guide base658accommodates the bar upward and downward motor gear652, the bar upward and downward cam gear653, the bar upward and downward arm654, the bar arm link655, the bar upward and downward guide bush656and the bar slide bush657. In addition, the long hole658ais formed in a side surface of the bar upward and downward guide base658such that its long axis is in an approximately vertical direction. Moreover, a long hole658band a long hole658care formed in the side surface of the bar upward and downward guide base658on each side of the long hole658ain parallel.

A bar link shaft659is mounted to the bar arm link655. The bar link shaft659includes four bar link shafts, bar link shafts659a,659b,659c, and659d. The bar link shafts659aand659bpenetrate the long hole658bof the bar upward and downward guide base658. Meanwhile, the bar link shafts659cand659dpenetrate the long hole658cof the bar upward and downward guide base658.

The bar upward and downward plate660is fixed to the bar link shaft659. That is, the bar upward and downward plate660is fixed to the bar arm link655via the bar link shaft659, and therefore moves upward and downward when the bar arm link655moves upward and downward.

The bar roller holder661is mounted to the bar upward and downward plate660. The bar roller holder661is formed of a rectangle with rounded corners. Here, like the bar slide bush657, the shape of the bar roller holder661is not limited to the rectangle with rounded corners but another shape may be applicable.

Moreover, as described above, the bar roller holder661is fitted into the long hole642aof the bar forward and backward slider642in the bar unit630. By this means, when the bar upward and downward plate660moves upward and downward, the bar roller holder661follows this upward and downward movement to move the bar forward and backward slider642upward and downward. Consequently, when the bar upward and downward plate660moves upward and downward, and therefore the bar unit630moves upward and downward together with the movement of the bar upward and downward plate660. That is, the title bar641moves upward and downward according to the upward and downward movement of the bar upward and downward plate660.

The first bar upward and downward photo sensor662includes a light transmitting part that transmits a light signal and a light receiving part that receives light. Part of the movement path of the bar arm link655passes through between the light transmitting part and the light receiving part of the first bar forward and backward photo sensor662to detect the default position of the bar arm link655.

The second bar upward and downward photo sensor663includes a light transmitting part that transmits a light signal and a light receiving part that receives light. Part of the movement path of the bar arm link655passes through between the light transmitting part and the light receiving part of the second bar upward and downward photo sensor663to detect the maximum position limit of the bar arm link655.

With this arrangement of the first bar upward and downward photo sensor662and the second bar upward and downward photo sensor663, it is possible to detect the movement state of the bar arm link655, that is, to detect the position to which the title bar641has been moved upward or downward.

With the above-described configuration, when the bar upward and downward drive motor651is rotated by the video display processor421, the bar upward and downward motor gear652is rotated, so that the bar upward and downward cam gear653is rotated. Subsequently, when the bar upward and downward cam gear653is rotated, the protrusion formed on the front end of the arm part of the bar upward and downward cam gear653is moved in a circle, and therefore the bar upward and downward arm654is rotated.

When the bar upward and downward arm654is rotated, the bar arm link655with the bar upward and downward guide bush656is moved upward and downward. Next, the bar upward and downward plate660, which is fixed to the bar arm link655via the bar link shaft659, is moved upward and downward along with the upward and downward movement of the bar arm link655. When the bar upward and downward plate660is moved upward and downward, the bar roller holder661mounted to the bar upward and downward plate660is moved upward and downward, so that the bar unit630is moved upward and downward together with them.

Therefore, when the bar upward and downward drive motor651is rotated by the video display processor421, the bar unit630is moved upward and downward, that is, it is possible to move the title bar641in the vertical direction.

Here, as described above, when the bar forward and backward drive motor644is rotated by the video display processor421, it is possible to move the title bar641forward and backward, so that it is possible to move the title bar641forward, backward, upward and downward by the control of the video display processor421.

FIG. 22is a perspective view showing the title bar641after being moved upward and the bar unit630. As shown inFIG. 22, the title bar641is moved by the bar roller holder661of the bar upward and downward drive unit650, from the default position to an upper position.

In addition, the first bar upward and downward photo sensor662and the second bar upward and downward photo sensor663can detect the position to which the title bar641has been moved. Here, the title bar641can be stopped or turned back on the way from the bottom position, as the default position, to the top position. Here, the top position is equivalent to “second position” recited in the appended claims.

FIG. 23andFIG. 24show exemplary combinations of the movements of the LC display device41and the title bar641.

FIG. 23is a perspective view showing the LC display device41after being moved upward and the title bar641after being moved forward.FIG. 24is a perspective view showing the LC display device41after being moved upward and the title bar641after being moved forward and upward.FIGS. 25 and 26are drawings each show the entire game machine1after the LC display device41and the title bar641are moved.FIG. 25is a front view showing the game machine1after the LC display device41is moved upward and the title bar641is moved forward.FIG. 26is a front view showing the game machine1after the LC display device41is moved upward and the title bar641is moved forward and upward. Here, the combinations of the movements of the LC display device41and the title bar641are not limited to them.

As described above, the LC display device41and the title bar641can be moved in various ways by the LC drive unit610and the bar unit630which are controlled by the video display processor421.

Next, a symbol arrangement table will be described with reference toFIG. 5.

The symbol arrangement table is provided in the main ROM302. When the main CPU301detects the reel index, the position of the symbol displayed in the middle stage of the display window21is defined as “00” in the symbol arrangement table. “00” to “20” corresponding to the symbol counter are allocated to the symbols, respectively, in the order of the spinning direction of the reels, beginning from the symbol position “00”.

Symbols are allocated to the reels according to the symbol arrangement table shown inFIG. 5. When a predetermined combination of the symbols is arranged on the pay line, various prizes such as payout of medals, a replay and a bonus game, are provided to the player. For example, when bell 1, bell 1 and bell 1 are arranged on the pay line, nine medals are paid out; when replay 1, replay 1 and replay 1 are arranged on the pay line, a replay is activated; and when red 7, red 7 and red 7 are arranged on the pay line, a predetermined number of bonus games (for example, twenty games) are activated.

Here, in a bonus state in which bonus games are performed, the stop operation order display lamps30ato30cinform the order to operate the stop buttons11,12and13during the predetermined number of games, in order to arrange the symbol combination associated with “bell”. That is, the stop buttons30ato30care operated according to the informed order of stop operations, so that the player can acquire many medals for a short period of time.

In addition, with the present embodiment, for example, it is determined whether or not the game will progress to an ART state after the bonus state ends, and determined how many ART games will be performed. Then, when it is determined that the game will progress to an ART state, the ART games will be performed the determined number of times.

In the ART game, the order of stop operations is informed to stop the symbol combination associated with “bell” on the pay line; and the acquisition of a replay is high as long as the stop buttons11,12and13are operated according to the informed order of stop operations. That is, in the ART state, it is possible to acquire many medals without the consumption of medals.

Here, with the present embodiment, in a case in which the number of ART games is determined, the number of games to be added to the number of ART games is determined by a lottery and so forth, provided that predetermined same symbols (bells) are arranged on the pay line. As described in detail later, with the present embodiment, when the additional number is determined, a predetermined performance (“super exciting performance” described later) will be determined.

Next, the performance determination table will be described with reference toFIG. 6.

FIG. 6shows the performance determination table provided in the sub-ROM414. The sub-control board400determines various performances by using the performance determination table and controls the performances.

With the present embodiment, for example, “super exciting performance” listed as “performance No. 022” is performed when additional games are added to the number of ART games. When “super exciting performance” is started, the player is prompted to push the performance button18according to the display. At this time, when the performance button18is pushed by the player, the LC drive unit110is activated to move the LC display device41upward and downward. Then, information about the added number of ART games is displayed on the LC display device41(for example, “+10 games” is displayed). Also, at this time, the speakers34and35output sounds (e.g. fanfare) to inform that the additional games have been added to the number of ART games. Moreover, when the player pushes the performance button18pushes, the title bar641that is separated from the LC display device41and provided on the back surface side of the LC display device41is activated by the bar unit630, and protrudes in front of the LC display device41. Then, the protruding title bar641moves upward to cover part of the image displayed on the LC display device41, and then moves downward. After that, the added number of ART games is displayed on the LC display device41(for example, “+10 games” is displayed). At this time, the speakers34and35output sounds (e.g. fanfare) to inform that the additional games have been added to the number of ART games.

Combinations of the movements of the LC display device41and the title bar641are, for example, as follows:

1. Only the LC display device41moves upward and downward;
2. LC display device41moves upward while the title bar641moves forward;
3. The LC display device41moves upward while the title bar641moves forward, and then moves upward and downward;
4. the LC display device41moves upward while the title bar641moves forward, and the LC display device41moves upward and downward with the upward and downward movement of the title bar641;
5. The LC display device41moves upward while the title bar641placed in the front side moves upward and downward; and
6. The LC display device41moves upward, and then moves upward and downward with the upward and downward movement of the title bar641placed in front of the LC display device41.

However, it is by no means limiting, but other combinations are possible.

In addition, both the LC display device41and the title bar641may stop and change the moving direction in the middle of the range of movement, as well as they move from end to end of the range of movement. Moreover, other performances than “performance No. 022.” may be provided with the LC display device41and the title bar641. Moreover, a performance may be provided with the LC display device41and the title bar641when the game progresses to a predetermined game state, or when a predetermined condition is realized. Furthermore, a kind of performances with the LC display device41and the title bar641may be determined based on a selected performance or condition.

<Program Start Processing in the Main Control Board300>

Next, program start processing in the main control board300will be described with reference toFIG. 7. Here, the program start processing is performed based on that the power-supply switch511swis turned on.

In step S1, the main CPU301performs initial setting processing. To be more specific, the initial setting processing is performed to set the address of the table for setting the internal register of the game machine1and also set the address of the register, based on the table. Then, after the processing in the step S1ends, the step moves to step S2.

In the step S2, the main CPU301performs processing for calculating RAM checksum. To be more specific, the main CPU301performs the processing for calculating the checksum of the main RAM303and setting the calculated checksum of the main RAM303. Here, the checksum is a kind of error detecting code. Then, after the processing in the step S2ends, the step moves to step S3.

In the step S3, the main CPU301performs processing for determining whether or not the setting change switch is turned on. With the present embodiment, the setting change switch is turned on by turning a setting change key inserted into the key hole (not shown) for a predetermined angle. Therefore, in the step S3, the main CPU301determines whether or not the setting change key (not shown) is turned for a predetermined angle while the setting change key is inserted into the key hole. Then, when it is determined that the setting change switch is turned on (step S3=Yes), the step moves to step S4. On the other hand, when it is determined that the setting change switch is turned off (step S3=No), the step moves to step S6.

In the step S4, the main CPU301determines whether or not a door opening/closing switch is turned on. With the present embodiment, the dedicated key is inserted into the key hole4and turned for a predetermined angle, and the front door3opens for a predetermined angle or more, so that the door opening/closing switch is turned on. Therefore, in the step S4, the main CPU301performs processing for determining whether or not the dedicated key is inserted into the key hole4and turned for a predetermined angle, and the front door is open for a predetermined angle or more. Then, when it is determined that the door opening/closing switch is turned on (step S4=Yes), the step moves to step S7. On the other hand, when it is determined that the door opening/closing switch is turned off (step S4=No), the step moves to step S5.

In the step S5, the main CPU301sets a failure flag. To be more specific, when the setting change switch is turned on (step S3=Yes) and the door opening/closing switch is turned off (step S4=No), the setting change key instated into the key hole has been turned for a predetermined angle despite that the front door3is not open for a predetermined angle or more. In this case, the main CPU301sets the failure flag in a failure flag storage area provided in the main RAM303. Then, after the processing in the step5ends, the step moves to the step S6.

In the step S6, the main CPU301performs processing for recovering from power interruption. To be more specific, when the power supply to the game machine1is resumed after interrupting the power supply to the game machine1, the main CPU301performs processing for recovering the saved register value and the saved stack pointer value. In addition, the processing for recovering from power interruption includes processing for initializing the main RAM303. Then, after the processing in the step S6ends, the processing moves to main loop processing shown inFIG. 8.

In step S7, the main CPU301performs processing for setting a setting change device start command. To be more specific, when the setting change switch is turned on (step S3=Yes), and the door opening/closing switch is turned on (step S4=Yes), the main CPU301performs processing for setting the setting change device start command in a performance transmission data storage area in the main RAM303, in order to transmit the setting change device start command to the sub-control board400. Here, the setting change device start command has information indicating the start of the setting change of the game machine1. Then, after the processing in the step S7ends, the step moves to step S8.

In the step S8, the main CPU301performs processing for changing the setting value. To be more specific, the main CPU301acquires the current setting value, and determines whether or not the range of the setting value is correct. Here, when it is determined that the range is correct, the main CPU301performs processing for displaying the current setting value on the accumulated medal number display25and the setting display part36. On the other hand, when it is determined that the range is not correct, the main CPU301sets the default setting value in the setting value storage area provided in the main RAM303, and then performs processing for displaying the default setting value on the accumulated medal number display25and the setting display part36. Then, the main CPU301performs processing for changing and displaying the setting value, based on that the setting change switch37swdetects the setting change button37being operated; processing for fixing the setting value, based on the start switch10swdetects the start lever10being operated; and processing for storing the setting value in the setting value storage area in the main RAM303, based on that it is detected that the setting change key having been turned for a predetermined angle is being turned to the angle to allow the key to be taken out. Then, after the processing in the step S8ends, the step moves to step S9.

In the step S9, the main CPU301performs processing for lighting LEDs to display the number of accumulated medals and the number of acquired medals. To be more specific, the main CPU301commands to the accumulated medal number display25and the payout number display27to display the number of the accumulated medals and the number of the medals to be paid out. Here, the accumulated medal number display25and the payout number display27are connected to the relay board200via the I/F circuit305. Then, after the processing in the step S9ends, the step moves to step S10.

In the step S10, the main CPU301performs processing for setting an end command to end the setting change device. To be more specific, the main CPU301performs the processing for setting the end command in the performance transmission data storage area in the main RAM303, in order to transmit the end command to the sub-control board400. Here, this end command to end the setting change device has information indicating that the setting value has been changed and information regarding the changed setting value. Then, after the processing in the step S10ends, the processing moves to the main loop processing shown inFIG. 8.

Next, main loop processing will be described with reference toFIG. 8.

In step S101, the main CPU301performs initialization processing. To be more specific, the main CPU301performs the processing for setting a stack pointer and initializing the main RAM303. Then, when the processing in the step S101ends, the step moves to step S102.

In the step S102, the main CPU301performs game start control processing. To be more specific, the main CPU performs the processing for clearing the number of medals to be paid out and setting the current game state. Then, when the processing in the step S102ends, the step moves to step S103.

In the step S103, the main CPU301performs overflow display processing. To be more specific, the main CPU301performs the processing for predetermined error display by the payout number display27via the relay board200, based on that the auxiliary fill-up sensor530sdetects the auxiliary accumulation part530being filled up with the medals. Then, when the processing in the step S103ends, the step moves to step S104.

Here, with the present embodiment, the predetermined error display is performed by the payout number display27. However, it is by no means limiting, but another display device or lamp may be used. For example, information may be provided by a plurality of devices such as the payout number display27, the LC display device41and so forth.

In the step S104, the main CPU301performs processing for starting accepting a medal. During the processing, the main CPU301performs processing for allowing a medal to be accepted when a replay is not activated. Then, when the processing in the step104ends, the step moves to step S105. Here, the processing for starting accepting a medal may include, for example, processing for adding the inserted medal number counter by insertion of an additional medal, and setting an automatic insertion command at the time of a replay.

In the step S105, the main CPU301performs processing for checking the setting value. To be more specific, the main CPU301performs the processing for reading the setting value that was stored in the setting value storage area in the main RAM303in the step S10. Then, when the processing in the step S105ends, the step moves to step S106.

In the step S106, the main CPU301performs medal management processing. During this process, the main CPU301performs processing for checking if a medal is inserted. Then, when the processing in the step S106ends, the step moves to step S107. Here, this medal management processing includes, for example, processing for checking if a correct medal is inserted into the medal insertion slot6and processing for adjust the medals at the medal adjustment time.

In the step S107, the main CPU301performs processing for checking insertion/payout sensors. In this processing, the main CPU301performs processing for displaying a failure when the medal sensor16sor a payout sensor (not shown) provided in the hopper520detects the failure. Then, when the processing in the step107ends, the step moves to step S108. Here, this processing for checking the insertion/payout sensors may include processing for determining whether or not the medal sensor16sdetects a failure, and processing for determining whether or not the payout sensor (not shown) provided in the hopper520detects a failure.

In the step S108, the main CPU301performs processing for checking the start lever. This processing may include, for example, processing for determining whether or not the start switch10swis turned on. Then, when the processing in the step S108ends, the step moves to step S109. Here, this processing for checking the start lever may include processing for determining whether or not the operation of the start lever10is acceptable. When it is determined that the operation of the start lever10is acceptable, the operation of the start lever10is allowed to be accepted.

In the step S109, the main CPU301performs internal lottery processing. This processing includes the processing for determining whether or not a bonus, a small win, or a replay can be acquired through a lottery. Then, when the processing in the step109ends, the step moves to step S110. Here, this internal lottery processing may include acquiring data such as the current game state, the number of lotteries in the current game and the kind of RT.

In step S110, the main CPU301performs symbol code setting processing. This processing includes processing for holding a lottery to determine whether or not to perform a reel spin performance, based on the win area determined in the step S109. Then, when the processing in the step S110ends, the step moves to step S111.

In the step S111, the main CPU301performs processing for preparing to start to spin the reels. This processing includes processing for setting the time for at least one game. Then, when the processing in the step S111ends, the step moves to step S112. Here, this processing also includes processing for determining whether or not the value of the timer counter set in the previous game has become “0”. Here, the timer counter value may be set to the time for at least one game (about 4.1 seconds). In addition, the processing for preparing to start to spin the reels may include processing for setting the waiting time until the spin speed of the reels17is constant.

In step S112, the main CPU301performs pre-processing for stopping the reels. This processing includes processing for shifting the symbol stop position during which the reels17are spinning. Then, when the processing in the step S112ends, the step moves to step S113. Here, this processing for shifting the symbol stop position includes processing for setting the initial value of a virtual stop position to acquire the priorities of the symbols; and processing for correcting the stop position when the stop position is not “00”, and saving the priorities.

In the step S113, the main CPU301performs processing for starting to spin the reels17. To be more specific, the main CPU301performs the processing for spinning the reels17at a constant speed by driving the stepping motors101,102and103via the reel control board100. Then, when the processing in the step S113ends, the step moves to step S114.

In the step S114, the main CPU301performs processing for setting an operable state flag. To be more specific, the main CPU301performs the processing for turning on operable state flags in operable state flag storage areas provided in the main RAM303. Here, the operable state flag areas are provided corresponding to the stop buttons11,12and13, respectively. In addition, the operable state flags are used to determine whether or not the stop buttons11,12and13can perform stop operation. For example, when all the operable state flags respectively corresponding to the stop buttons11,12and13are turned off, the main CPU301determines that all the stop buttons11,12and13can perform stop operation. Then, when the processing in the step S114ends, the step moves to step S115.

In the step S115, the main CPU301performs processing for which the reels17are spinning. This processing includes processing for controlling to stop the spin of the corresponding reel17, based on that the stop switch11sw,12swand13swdetects the player operating the stop button11,12and13. Then, when the processing in the step S115ends, the step moves to step S116.

In the step S116, the main CPU301performs processing for determining whether or not there is a stop request. To be more specific, the main CPU301performs the processing for determining whether or not the stop switches11sw,12swand13swdetected the player operating the stop buttons11,12and13, so that the spinning reels17swere stopped in the step115. Then, when it is determined that there is no stop request (step S116=No), the step moves to step S118. On the other hand, it is determined that there is a stop request (step S116=Yes), the step moves to step S117.

In the step S117, the main CPU301performs processing for setting a reel stop command. To be more specific, the main CPU301performs the processing for setting a reel stop command in the performance transmission data storage area in the main RAM303, in order to transmit the reel stop command to the sub-control board400. Here, the reel stop command includes information on the kind of the stopped reel17; information on the symbol position at the time the stop switches11sw,12swand13swdetect the player operating the stop buttons11,12and13; and information on the symbol code corresponding to the symbol position. Then, when the processing in the step S117ends, the step moves to step S118.

In the step S118, the main CPU301performs processing for determining whether or not all the reels17have stopped. To be more specific, the main CPU301performs the processing for determining whether or not all the reels17have stopped, based on the value of the operable state flag storage area provided in the main RAM303. Then, when it is determined that part of the reels17has not stopped yet (step S118=No), the step moves to the step S114, and the processing is repeatedly performed until all the reels17have stopped. On the other hand, when it is determined that all the reels17have stopped (step S118=Yes), the step moves to step S119.

In the step S119, the main CPU301determines whether or not the stop buttons11,12and13are being operated. To be more specific, the main CPU301performs the processing for determining whether or not the stop switches11sw,12swand13swhave been turned off. Then, when it is determined that the stop buttons11,12and13are being operated (step S119=Yes), the processing in the step S119is repeatedly performed until the stop buttons11,12and13have not been operated. On the other hand, when it is determined that the stop buttons11,12and13are not being operated (step S119=No), the step moves to step S120.

In the step S120, the main CPU301performs display determination processing. This processing includes processing for calculating the number of medals to be paid out, according to the combination of the symbols for the win. Then, the processing in the step S120ends, the step moves to step S121.

Here, this processing may include processing for setting a replay activation command at the time of the display of the replay, processing for calculating the number of medals to be paid out, and processing for determining a failure of the display determination.

In the step S121, the main CPU301performs processing for checking the insertion/payout sensors. In this processing, when the medal sensor16sor a payout sensor (not shown) provided in the hopper520detects a failure, the main CPU310performs processing for displaying the detected failure, in the same way as in the step S107. Then, when the processing in the step121ends, the step moves to step S122.

In the step S122, the main CPU301performs payout processing. This processing includes processing for paying out the medals by driving the hopper520via the power-supply board500. Then, when the processing in the step S122ends, the step moves to step S123.

Here, this payout processing may include processing for determining whether or not the value of an accumulated medal number counter is “50”. Here, when the value is smaller than “50”, medals are added, and, on the other hand, when the number of the medal accumulation is greater than “50” during the addition, the medals for greater than “50” are paid out.

In the step S123, the main CPU301performs processing for moving the game state. This processing includes processing for moving the RT game state, based on the combination of the symbols arranged on the pay line. Then, when the processing in the step S123ends, the step moves to the step S101, and subsequent processing is repeatedly performed.

Next, interrupt processing will be described with reference toFIG. 9. Here, “interrupt processing” is performed to interrupt the main loop processing every 1.49 ms. Here,FIG. 9shows a sub-routine of the interrupt processing.

In step S201, the main CPU301performs processing for saving the register value. To be more specific, the main CPU301performs the processing for saving the register value at the time of the step S201. Then, when the processing in the step S201ends, the step moves to step S202.

In the step S202, the main CPU301performs processing for reading the input port. To be more specific, the main CPU301performs the processing to receive signals from the reel control board100, the relay board200, and the power-supply board500via the I/F circuit305. Then, when the processing in the step S202ends, the step moves to step S203.

In the step S203, the main CPU301performs processing for time measurement with the timer. To be more specific, the main CPU301performs the processing for subtracting “one” from the value of the timer counter used to measure the spin time for the reel spin performance and the time for at least one game. Then, when the processing in the step S203ends, the step moves to step S204.

In the step S204, the main CPU301performs processing for setting the reel number. To be more specific, the main CPU301performs the processing for setting the reel number in order to set the reel targeted for reel drive control processing in step S205described later. Then, when the processing in the step S204ends, the step moves to step S205.

In the step S205, the main CPU301performs reel drive control processing. To be more specific, the main CPU301drives the stepping motor of the reel corresponding to the reel number set by the processing in the step S204, via the reel control board100to control the speed of the reel17, that is, to perform acceleration control, constant-speed control and deacceleration control. In addition, the main CPU301performs processing for controlling the reels17to spin in the opposite direction during the reel spin performance. Then, when the processing in the step S205ends, the step moves to step S206.

In the step S206, the main CPU301performs processing for determining whether or not the processing has been done on all the reels. To be more specific, the main CPU301performs the processing for determining whether or not the reel drive control processing in the step S205has been done on all the reels17. Then, when it is determined that the processing has been done on all the reels (step206=Yes), the step moves to step S207. On the other hand, it is determined that the processing has not been done on part of the reels (step S206=No), the step moves to the step S204, and the same processing is repeatedly performed until the processing has been done on all the reels.

In step S207, the main CPU301performs processing for outputting an external signal. For example, the main CPU301performs the processing for outputting data indicating the game state to a terminal board (not shown). Then, when the processing in the step207ends, the step moves to step S208.

In the step S208, the main CPU301performs processing for LED display. To be more specific, the main CPU301performs the processing for controlling the lighting of the start lamp23, the bet lamps24ato24c, the accumulated medal number display25, the game state display lamp26, the payout number display27, the insertion possible display lamp28, and the replay display lamp29. Then, when the processing in the step S208ends, the step moves to step S209.

In the step S209, the main CPU301performs processing for transmitting a control command. To be more specific, the main CPU301performs the processing for transmitting various commands set in the performance transmission data storage area provided in the main RAM303, to the sub-control board400. Then, when the processing in the step S209ends, the step moves to step S210.

In the step S210, the main CPU301performs processing for returning the register value. To be more specific, the main CPU301performs the processing for returning the saved register value. Then, when the processing in the step zS210ends, the main CPU301terminates the interrupt processing and returns to the main loop processing.

<Main Processing in the Sub-Control Board>

Next, the main processing in the sub-control board will be described with reference toFIG. 10. Here, the main processing in the sub-control board is performed based on that the power-supply switch511swis turned on.

In step S301, the sub-CPU421performs processing for acquiring the schedule. This processing may include the processing for loading date information acquired by the RTC device426. Then, the sub-CPU412determines whether or not the current date is a specific day, based on the loaded date information and so forth. When it is determined that the current date is the specific day, the sub-CPU412performs processing for acquiring the schedule corresponding to the date information. When the processing in the step S310ends, the sub-CPU412moves the step to step S302.

In the step S302, the sub-CPU412performs initialization processing. To be more specific, the sub-CPU412performs the processing for checking an error of the sub-RAM415and for initializing the task system. Then, when the processing in the step S302ends, the step moves to step S303.

In the step S303, the sub-CPU412performs processing for activating a main board communication task. To be more specific, the sub-CPU412performs the processing for activating the main board communication task in order to perform the processing shown inFIG. 11. Then, when the processing in the step S303, the step moves to step S304.

In the step S304, the sub-CPU412performs processing for activating a sound control task. Here, during this sound control task, the sub-CPU412performs processing for analyzing the sound data determined in the processing for determining sound data in step S405-3described later (seeFIG. 22), and controlling the sound outputted from the speakers34and35, based on the result of the analysis. Then, when the processing in the step S304, the step moves to step S305.

In the step S305, the sub-CPU412performs processing for activating a lamp control task. Here, in this lamp control task, the sub-CPU412analyzes lamp data determined in processing for determining lamp data in S405-2described later (seeFIG. 13), and performs processing for controlling the lighting of the side lamp5, the performance lamp22, the stop operation order display lamps30, and the start lever performance lamp42, based on the result of the analysis. Then, when the processing in the step S305ends, the step moves to step S306.

In the step S306, the sub-CPU412performs processing for activating an image control task. To be more specific, the sub-CPU412performs processing for activating the image control task in order to execute the processing shown inFIG. 12.

Next, the main board communication task will be described with reference toFIG. 20.

In step S401, the sub-CPU412performs initialization processing. To be more specific, the sub-CPU412performs processing for initializing a predetermined storage area in the sub-RAM415. Then, when the processing in the step S401ends, the step moves to step S402.

In the step S402, the sub-CPU412performs processing for checking a received command. To be more specific, the sub-CPU412performs the processing for checking the command transmitted form the I/F circuit305in the main control board300to the I/F circuit411. Then, when the processing in the step S402ends, the step moves to step S403.

In the step S403, the sub-CPU412performs processing for determining whether or not a different command has been received. To be more specific, the sub-CPU412performs the processing for determining whether or not the command transmitted from the I/F circuit305in the main control board300is different from the command previously transmitted. Then, when it is determined that the received command is different from the previous one (step S403=Yes), the step moves to step S404. On the other hand, when it is determined that a different command has not been received (step S403=No), the step moves to the step S402.

In the step S404, the sub-CPU412performs processing for storing game information. To be more specific, the sub-CPU412performs processing for generating game information based on the command checked by the processing in the step S402and storing the information in the sub-RAM415. By this processing, the information contained in the parameter of the command inputted from the I/F circuit305in the main control board300to the I/F circuit411is stored in the sub-RAM415. Therefore, the sub-control board400can control the information that is controlled also in the main control board300. Then, when the processing in the step S404ends, the step moves to step S405.

In the step S405, the sub-CPU412performs command analysis processing, which will be described later with reference toFIG. 13. This processing includes the processing corresponding to the command inputted from the I/F circuit305in the main control board300to the I/F circuit411. Then, when the processing in the step S405, the step moves to the step S402.

Next, the image control task will be described with reference toFIG. 12.

In step S651, the sub-CPU412performs initialization processing. To be more specific, the sub-CPU412performs the processing for initializing data on an image. Then, when the processing in the step S651ends, the step moves to step S652.

In the step S652, the sub-CPU412performs processing for performing a sound control task. Here, in this sound control task, the sub-CPU412analyzes sound data which is determined in processing for determining sound data in step S405-3described later (seeFIG. 13), and then performs processing for controlling the sound outputted from the speakers34and35, based on the result of the analysis. Then, when the processing in the step S652ends, the step moves to step S653.

In the step S653, the sub-CPU412performs processing for analyzing image data. To be more specific, the sub-CPU412performs the processing for analyzing the image data determined in processing for determining image data in step S405-4described later. Then, when the processing in the step S653ends, the step moves to step S654.

In the step S654, the sub-CPU412performs image control processing. To be more specific, the sub-CPU412performs the processing for outputting a signal to the image control board420, based on the result of the analysis by the processing in the step S653. By this means, the LC display device41can display information about the game (for example, the number of games having been played or the number of medals having been acquired in the ART state), or various performance images (for example, images for “super exciting performance”). Then, when the processing in the step S654ends, the step returns to the step S652.

<Processing for Analyzing a Command>

Next, processing for analyzing a command will be described with reference toFIG. 13. Here,FIG. 13shows a sub-routine of command analysis processing.

In step S405-1, the sub-CPU412performs processing for determining performance contents.

In the processing for determining performance contents, for example, when the game is in the ART state, a lottery is held to add additional games to the number of ART games, based on a lottery table for adding the number of ART games (not shown) provided in the sub-ROM414. This lottery table for adding the number of ART games stores the increment of the number of ART games and the lottery vale corresponding to the increment. Then, when it is determined to add a predetermined number of games to the number of ART games by the lottery, the sub-CPU412performs processing for selecting the performance content (e.g. “super exciting performance” of performance No. 022), based on the performance determination table (seeFIG. 6). Here, with the present embodiment, when it is determined to provide “super exciting performance”, the player is prompted to push the performance button18according to the LC display device41, and then pushes the operation button18, so that the LC display device41and the title bar641are moved. When the processing in the step S405-1ends, the step moves to the step S405-2.

In the step S405-2, the sub-CPU412performs processing for determining lamp data. To be more specific, the sub-CPU412performs the processing for determining the lamp data corresponding to the performance content determined by the processing in the step S405-1. Then, when the processing in the step S405-2ends, the step moves to the step S405-3.

In the step S405-3, the sub-CPU412performs processing for determining sound data. To be more specific, the sub-CPU412performs the processing for determining the sound data corresponding to the performance content determined by the processing in the step S405-1. Then, when the processing in the step S405-3ends, the step moves to step S405-4.

In the step S405-4, the sub-CPU412performs processing for determining image data. To be more specific, the sub-CPU412performs the processing for determining the image data corresponding to the performance content determined by the processing in the step S405-1. Then, when the processing in the step S405-4ends, the command analysis processing is terminated, and the step moves to the step S402in the main board communication task.

As described above, the game machine1according to the present embodiment includes the title bar641that can be moved from a predetermined default position to a predetermined area; the bar unit630that moves the title bar641; and the LC display device41. When the title bar641is located in the default position, the LC display device41covers the title bar641, and, at the time a predetermined requirement is met, for example, a predetermined number of games is added, the bar unit630moves the title bar641to an area where the title bar641is not covered by the LC display device41. By this means, the title bar641covered by the LC display device41suddenly appears, so that the player is astonished and moved because the player did not expect that, so that it is possible to improve the amusement of the player. In addition, with the present embodiment, although one LC display device is provided as “display means” for displaying game information, another configuration is possible where a plurality of LC display devices are provided. Moreover, with the present embodiment, although an LC display device is used as “display device, another display device such as a dot matrix display device is applicable. Furthermore, with the present embodiment, the LC display device41that can display information on the game is employed as “second object.” Therefore, the player pays attention to the information on the game displayed on the display device, and consequently might not notice the title bar, so that it is possible to improve the amusement of the player as compared to when the title bar is hidden by an object that displays no information.

In addition, in the game machine1according to the present embodiment, when a predetermined requirement is met, the LC drive unit610moves the LC display device41so that the title bar641is no longer covered by the LC display device41, and the bar unit630moves the title bar641to be located in front of the LC display device41. By this means, it is possible to easily check the additional number of games and so forth and to improve the amusement of the player.

Moreover, the game machine1according to the present embodiment includes the LC drive unit610that moves the LC display device41. When a predetermined requirement is met, the LC drive unit610moves the LC display device41to be located in an area where the title bar641is no longer covered by the LC display device41, and the bar unit630moves the title bar641to be located in front of the LC display device41. To be more specific, a specific condition is realized, the LC drive unit610moves the LC display device41upward and the bar unit630moves the title bar641to be located in front of the LC display device41, so that the player can see the title bar641. By this means, it is possible to provide various changes in game performance, and therefore to improve the amusement of the player.

Here, with the present embodiment, the LC drive unit610and the bar unit630are controlled by the video display processor421. However, it is by no means limiting, but they may be directly controlled by the LC control CPU422aor the sub-CPU412. Moreover, the LC drive unit610and the bar unit630may be controlled by different controllers, respectively.

Next, another embodiment will be described where the present invention is applied to a pachinko game machine.FIG. 27is a front view showing a pachinko game machine1001.

As shown inFIG. 27, the pachinko game machine1001includes an operation handle1003, rails1005aand1005b, a playfield1006, a main control part and a performance control part (not shown). An outlet1011, winning holes1012, a start-up hole1014, a bonus game gate1016, an LC display device1041and a title bar1641are provided in the playfield1006.

The main control part controls the basic operations of a game. The performance control part controls each performance during the game or for a wait time, and also controls various performance devices, based on a command transmitted from the main control part or signals inputted from an input detection device, a timer and so forth.

By rotating the operation handle1003, a voltage applied to a launching control board (not shown) can be changed via a launching volume adjusting part formed by a variable resistor that is directly connected to the operation handle1003. The launching control board rotates a hitting member via a launching solenoid based on the changed voltage, and therefore to hit the playing balls accumulated in the end of the downslope of a launching rail. Therefore, the player rotates the operation handle1003, so that playing balls are launched.

The rails1005aand1005bguide playing balls to the playfield1006. That is, by rotating the operation handle1003, the playing balls launched from the launching rail pass between the rail1005aand1005b, reach the playfield1006, and then fall through the playfield1006. In this case, plurality of pegs and a pinwheel are provided on the playfield1006, so that the trajectories of the falling playing balls are unpredictable.

The outlet1011is provided on the bottom of the playfield1006to discharge playing balls which did not enter any of the winning holes1012, the start-up hole1014, and the bonus game gate1016.

The plurality of winning holes1012are provided in the playfield1006, each of which has a winning hole detection switch. When the winning hole detection switch detects a playing ball entering the winning hole, a predetermined prize is provided (for example, ten playing balls are paid out).

The start-up hole1014has a start-up hole detection switch that detects a playing ball entering the start-up hole1014. When the start-up hole detection switch detects a playing ball entering the start-up hole1014, a lottery is held, which provides the right to play a bonus game (herein after “lottery for bonus game”). Also, when the start-up hole detection switch detects a playing ball entering the start-up hole1014, a predetermined prize is provided (for example, three playing balls are paid out).

The bonus game gate1016is usually closed by a bonus game gate door, so that any playing ball cannot enter the bonus game gate1016. However, when a bonus game is started, the bonus game gate door opens and serves as a tray to guide a playing ball into the bonus game gate1016, so that the playing ball can enter the bonus game gate1016. The bonus game gate1016has a bonus game gate detection switch. When the bonus game gate switch detects a playing ball entering the bonus game gate1016, a predetermined prize is provided (for example, fifteen balls are paid out).

Here, “lottery for bonus game” is processing that is performed when a playing ball enters the start-up hole1014, in order to acquire a random number value for determining a special symbol and to determine whether the acquired random number value corresponds to “jackpot” or “small win.”

With the present embodiment, “jackpot” means acquisition of the right to play a bonus game in a lottery performed provided that a playing ball enters the start-up hole1014. In a bonus game, the bonus game gate1016opens, for example, fifteen times. The maximum period of time for which the bonus game gate1016opens in one round is preset. One round of the game ends if a predetermined number of playing balls has entered in the bonus game gate1016during the predetermined period of time. That is, “bonus game” allows the player to acquire a number of playing balls as prizes because playing balls can enter the bonus gate1016and the player can acquire the corresponding number of playing balls as prizes.

The LC display device1041is provided in an approximately center of the playfield1006. The LC display device1041displays an image during a wait time for the start of a game, and an image corresponding to the progress of the game. For example, the LC display device1041displays three performance symbols to inform the result of a lottery for bonus game. Here, in order to inform the player of the acquisition of a bonus game, the LC display device1041displays a specific combination of symbols (e.g., 777) while the reels are stopped. In addition, the LC display device1041displays performances with animation.

Moreover, the LC display device1041includes an LC drive unit. This LC drive unit is a drive mechanism that is controlled by the performance control part to move the LC display device1041upward and downward. The configuration and the drive mechanism of the LC drive unit are the same as the above-described LC drive unit610.

In addition, when the pachinko game machine1001is in the initial state, for example, the power supply is turned on, the LC display device1041is held in a position where the LC display device1041is lowered down. In addition, if a predetermined requirement is met, for example, when a bonus game is acquired, or a predetermined random number value is acquired, the LC drive unit moves the LC display device1041upward and downward under the control of the performance control part.

The title bar1641is provided in the lower back of the LC display device1041. The title bar1641includes a bar drive unit. This bar drive unit is a drive mechanism that is controlled by the performance control part to move the title bar1641forward, backward, upward and downward. The configuration and the drive mechanism of the bar drive unit are the same as the above-described bar unit630.

In addition, when the pachinko game machine1001is in the initial state, for example, the power supply is turned on, the title bar1641is held in a lower and back position. Therefore, when the LC display device1041and the title bar1641are stopped in the initial position, the LC display device1041covers the title bar1641to be invisible.

In addition, if a predetermined requirement is met, for example, when a bonus game is acquired, or a predetermined random number value is acquired, the bar drive unit moves the title bar1641forward, downward, upward and downward under the control of the performance control part.

Here, the operating conditions of the LC display device1041by the LC display device may be the same as or different from the operating conditions of the title bar1641by the bar drive unit. That is, the LC display device1041and the title bar1641may be operated together or individually.

FIG. 28is a front view showing the pachinko game machine1001with the LC display device1041and the title bar1641in operation.FIG. 28shows the LC display device1041after being moved upward and the title bar1641after being moved forward and upward.

By this means, the title bar1641hidden by the LC display device1041suddenly appears, so that the player is astonished and moved because the player did not expect that, so that it is possible to improve the amusement of the player.

Here, although the embodiment has been described where the present invention is applied to a slot machine and a pachinko game machine, another embodiment is possible where the preset invention is applied to various game machines such as a mahjong ball game machine and an arrange ball game machine.

For example, “operation device” as described above may be applicable to video game. Here, a video game device600having the operation device according to the present invention will be described with reference toFIG. 29.

As shown inFIG. 29, the video game device600can perform a card game (e.g. poker, and baccarat), and a slot machine game. This video game device2001includes an insertion slot2002into which a card or paper money is inserted; a first image display device2003that can display game images of a card game, a slot machine game and so forth; an operation device2004that can start and stop the game, and select various images; a payout slot2005from which a prize such as a card or paper money can be paid out; a second image display device2041that can display a performance image associated with the game; and a title bar2641.

In the video game device2001with the above-described configuration, the operation device2004is enabled by inserting a card or paper money into the insertion slot2002, and can be used to perform a video game such as a card game, a slot machine game and so forth, in the same way as in the above-described game machine1.

Here, the flow of a video game performed by the video game device2001will be described in two cases: when the video game is a card game; and when the video game is a slot machine game.

First, one case in which the video game is a card game (e.g. poker game) will be described. The video game device2001is configured to perform a card game by the player. The card game can be performed by inserting a card and so forth into the insertion slot2002, and then operating the operation button2004a.

To be more specific, when the operation button2004ais operated, the first image display device2003displays a plurality of rear surface images that imitate the rear surfaces of playing cards, and then, when any of the operation buttons2004bis operated, the rear surface image corresponding to the operation button2004bis inverted and a face card image representing a picture is displayed. Then, in a case in which the plurality of face card images constitute a specific condition (e.g. one pair), a prize corresponding to this specific condition is paid out from the payout slot2005.

Next, the other case in which the game performed by the video game device2001is a slot machine game will be described. The video game device2001is configured to perform a slot machine game by the player. The slot machine game can be performed by inserting a card and so forth into the insertion slot2002, and then operating the operation button803a, in the same way as in the case of a card game.

To be more specific, when the player operates the operation button2004a, the plurality of still reel images on the first image display device602spin at a time, and, when the player operates the operation buttons2004b, the reel images corresponding to the operation buttons2004bcan be stopped. Then, when the combination of the stopped symbols represents a specific condition, a prize corresponding to the specific condition is paid out from the payout slot2005.

Next, the LC display device2041and the title bar2641will be described. The LC display device2041is configured to be moved upward and downward by an LC drive unit (not shown) in the same way as the above-described LC display device41(seeFIG. 23). Here, the configuration and the drive mechanism of the LC drive unit are the same as those of the LC drive unit610(seeFIG. 15), and therefore overlapping descriptions will be omitted.

In addition, the title bar2641is moved forward, backward, upward and downward by a bar unit (not shown) in the same way as the above-described title bar641(seeFIG. 23). Here, the configuration and the drive mechanism of the bar unit are the same as the above-described LC drive unit610(seeFIG. 15), and therefore overlapping descriptions will be omitted.

If a predetermined requirement is not met, for example, when a bonus game is not acquired, the title bar2641is covered by the LC display device2041, and therefore cannot or may not be seen from the player.

Here, it will be described that how the LC display device2041and the title bar2641operate if a predetermined requirement is met, for example, if a specific condition is determined in advance in a card game or slot machine game.

With the present embodiment, when the predetermined requirement is met, first the LC display device2041is moved upward. In this state, the title bar2641can be seen, which is located below the LC display device2041.

After that, the title bar2641is moved to a position where the player can see the title bar2641is placed in front of the LC display device2041, and then moved upward along the screen of the LC display device2041.

As described above, with the present embodiment, the video game machine2001includes the title bar2641that is usually covered by the LC display device2041suddenly appears, so that the player is astonished and moved because the player did not expect that, so that it is possible to improve the amusement of the player.

Although the preferred embodiment has been explained, it is by no means limiting, it will be appreciated that various modifications and alterations are possible without departing from the scope of the invention.