Slot machine with insurance payout proportional to average bet amount

A gaming machine of the present invention is arranged so that, in a base game in which unit games can be repeatedly run, bet values on the respective unit games are accumulatively stored in the bet value memory, how many unit games are run is counted, an average of the bet values is calculated based on the bet value accumulatively stored in the bet value memory when a predetermined condition is met in the base game, and a payout calculated by multiplying the average by a predetermined value is awarded.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to a gaming machine and a playing method thereof.

2. Description of Related Art

Known gaming machines run slot games in each of which plural types of symbols are scrolled and then stopped and a predetermined number of game media (e.g. a predetermined number of coins or a predetermined amount of money) is awarded based on the combination of the stopped symbols. Such gaming machines are disclosed in, for example, the specifications of U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,960,133, 6,012,983, and 6,093,102.

Such gaming machines include a gaming machine which awards a prize when a predetermined condition is met in a game (e.g. predetermined symbols are rearranged in a slot game). For example, the specification of Australian Unexamined Patent Publication No. 1972901 discloses a slot machine which runs a free game as an auxiliary game when a predetermined condition (i.e. a particular set of symbols) is met in a base game. Since a free game is playable without betting a game medium, players playing slot games typically long for free games.

Taking this into account, the inventor of the present invention came up with an idea that players may be attracted to play games when a prize which is awarded in response to the realization of a predetermined condition in a game has a feature which is unexpected in the above-described prior art.

An object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine and a playing method thereof, which feature an entertainment characteristic unexpected in the above-described prior art.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a gaming machine which includes: a bet input unit which makes it possible to input a bet; a base game in which a unit game which starts in response to the input of a bet can be repeatedly run; a bet value memory in which a bet value of the bet is accumulatively stored; and a controller which is programmed to perform the steps (a1) to (a5). The controller performs: (a1) receiving the input of the bet from the bet input unit; (a2) after receiving the input of the bet, running the unit game at a predetermined timing and awarding a base payout based on a result of the unit game and the bet value of the bet; (a3) in the base game, accumulatively storing the bet value in the bet value memory each time the unit game is run; (a4) in the base game, counting how many times the unit game is run; and (a5) when the predetermined condition is met in the base game, calculating an average of the bet value bet on each of the counted unit game, based on the bet value accumulatively stored in the bet value memory, and awarding a special payout which is calculated by multiplying the average by a predetermined value.

According to this structure, a bet is input from the bet input unit. After the input of the bet, a unit game is run at a predetermined timing, and a payout is awarded based on the result of the unit game and the bet value of the bet. In a base game in which unit games are repeatedly run, a bet value of a bet is accumulatively stored in the bet value memory each time a unit game is run. In a base game, how many times unit games are run is counted. When a predetermined condition is met in a base game, an average of bet values betted on the counted unit games is calculated based on the bet value accumulatively stored in the bet value memory, and a result of multiplying the average by a predetermined value is awarded.

In short, awarded are not only a base payout as a result of a unit game but also a special payout when a predetermined condition is met in a base game. Furthermore, since the special payout is calculated by multiplying an average of the bet values bet in the base game by a predetermined value, a special payout is fairly awarded when a predetermined condition is met in a base game. Therefore a new entertainment characteristic is achieved.

In addition to the above, the present invention relates to the aforesaid gaming machine which further includes a mode switch input unit which makes it possible to switch between an insured mode and an uninsured mode, wherein, the controller is programmed to execute the steps (a3) , (a4), and (a5) only when the mode switch input unit sets the gaming machine in the insured mode.

According to the structure above, the processes related to a special payout are executed only when the insured mode is set by the mode switch input unit which can switch between the insured mode and the uninsured mode. This allows the player to play games in a desired mode and hence an entertainment characteristic is further enhanced.

For example, provided that a required bet value in the insured mode is higher than in the uninsured mode, the player can choose either the insured mode in which a special payout may be awarded while each bet value is high or the uninsured mode in which no special payout is awarded but each bet value is low.

The present invention also relates to a gaming machine which includes: a bet input unit which makes it possible to input a bet; a base game in which a unit game which starts in response to the input of a bet can be repeatedly run; a bet value memory in which a bet value of the bet is accumulatively stored; and a controller which is programmed to perform the steps (b1) to (b5). The controller performs: (b1) receiving the input of the bet from the bet input unit; (b2) after receiving the input of the bet, running the unit game at a predetermined timing and awarding a base payout based on a result of the unit game and the bet value of the bet; (b3) in the base game, accumulatively storing the bet value in the bet value memory each time the unit game is run; (b4) in the base game, counting how many times the unit game is run; and (b5) when the number of the unit game counted in the step (b4) reaches a predetermined number, calculating an average of the bet value bet on each of the counted unit game, based on the bet value accumulatively stored in the bet value memory, and awarding a special payout which is calculated by multiplying the average by a predetermined value.

According to the above-described structure, the input of a bet is received from the bet input unit. After receiving the input of the bet, a unit game is run at a predetermined timing, and a payout is awarded based on the result of the unit game and the bet value of the bet. In a base game in which unit games can be repeatedly run, the bet values on the respective unit games are accumulatively stored in the bet value memory. In the base game, how many unit games are run is counted. When the counted number of unit games in the base game reaches a predetermined number, an average of the bet values bet on the counted unit games is calculated based on the bet value accumulatively stored in the bet value memory, and a payout calculated by multiplying the average by a predetermined value is awarded.

In other words, awarded are not only a base payout as a result of a unit game but also a special payout when unit games are run for a predetermined number of times in a base game. Since a special payout is awarded when the player continuously plays base games, the player is motivated to continuously play games. Furthermore, since a special payout is calculated by multiplying an average of bet values bet in a base game by a predetermined value, the special payout is fairly awarded when a predetermined condition is met in the base game. Therefore a new entertainment characteristic is achieved.

In addition to the above, the present invention relates to the aforesaid gaming machine which further includes a mode switch input unit which makes it possible to switch between an insured mode and an uninsured mode, wherein, the controller is programmed to execute the steps (b3), (b4), and (b5) only when the mode switch input unit sets the gaming machine in the insured mode.

According to the structure above, the processes related to a special payout are executed only when the insured mode is set by the mode switch input unit which can switch between the insured mode and the uninsured mode. This allows the player to play games in a desired mode and hence an entertainment characteristic is further enhanced.

For example, provided that a required bet value in the insured mode is higher than in the uninsured mode, the player can choose either the insured mode in which a special payout may be awarded while each bet value is high or the uninsured mode in which no special payout is awarded but each bet value is low.

The present invention relates to a playing method of a gaming machine, which includes the steps of: (c1) receiving the input a bet from a bet input unit; (c2) after receiving the input of the bet, running a unit game at a predetermined timing and awarding a base payout based on a result of the unit game and a bet value of the bet; (c3) in a base game in which the unit game can be repeatedly run, accumulatively storing the bet value of the bet each time of the unit game is run; (c4) in the base game, counting how many times the unit game is run; and (c5) when a predetermined condition is met in the base game, calculating an average of the bet value bet on each of the counted unit game, based on the bet value accumulatively stored in the bet value memory, and awarding a special payout which is calculated by multiplying the average by a predetermined value.

According to this structure, awarded are not only a base payout as a result of a unit game but also a special payout when a predetermined condition is met in a base game. Furthermore, since the special payout is calculated by multiplying an average of the bet values bet in the base game by a predetermined value, a special payout is fairly awarded when a predetermined condition is met in a base game. Therefore a new entertainment characteristic is achieved.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

A gaming machine and a playing method thereof of the present invention are discussed below.

As illustrated inFIG. 1, a gaming machine10carries out a playing method which includes the steps of: receiving a bet by a bet input unit; after receiving the bet, running a unit game at a predetermined timing and awarding a base payout based on the result of the running of the unit game and the bet value thus betted; accumulatively storing a bet value on each unit game in a base game in which unit games can be repeatedly run; counting the number of unit games run in a base game; and when a predetermined condition is met in a base game, calculating an average of the bet values betted in the counted unit games based on the accumulatively stored bet values and awarding a special payout which is calculated by multiplying the average by a predetermined value.

In the present embodiment, a base game is a slot game. A unit game is a single slot game which starts in response to a bet and a base payout is awarded according to the result. That is to say, a base game is arranged so that unit games each of which starts in response to an input of a bet can be repeatedly run. The base game is not limited to slot game. Examples of the base game include baccarat, blackjack, roulette, and various types of book games.

A bet value is an amount of game media bet on a unit game. A game medium is a coin, a bill, or electronic information equivalent to them. Other non-limiting examples of game media in the present invention include a medal, a token, electronic money, and a ticket. A non-limiting example of the ticket is a later-mentioned ticket with barcode.

As illustrated inFIG. 2, the gaming machine10executing the above-described playing method includes a controller100and a bet input unit101.

As shown inFIG. 2, the bet input unit101is connected to the controller100. The bet input unit101has a function to output a bet signal in response to a player's operation. This bet signal is supplied to a later-described bet receiving unit111of the controller100. The information indicated by a bet signal includes a bet value betted in a unit game.

The controller100is configured to execute: a first process of receiving a bet from the bet input unit101; a second process of executing a unit game at a predetermined timing after receiving the bet and awarding a base payout based on the result of the unit game and the bet value which has been bet; a third process of accumulatively storing a bet value of each unit game in a base game in which unit games can be repeatedly run; a fourth process of counting the number of unit games run in the base game; and a fifth process of calculating an average of the bet values on the counted unit games based on the accumulatively stored bet value, when a predetermined condition is met in the base game, and awarding a special payout which is calculated by multiplying the average by a predetermined value. In other words, the controller100includes a first processing unit, a second processing unit, a third processing unit, a fourth processing unit, and a fifth processing unit.

The controller100includes a bet receiving unit111, a bet value memory112, a game running unit113, a base payout determining unit114, a payout awarding unit115, a game number counting unit116, a special payout condition determining unit117, a bet value average calculating unit118, and a special payout determining unit119.

The bet receiving unit111receives a bet based on the bet signal supplied from the bet input unit101. The bet value memory112accumulatively stores a bet value of a bet on each unit game. It is noted that bet values of respective unit games may be accumulatively stored in a single area of the bet value memory112or a bet value may be stored in association with each unit game.

The game running unit113has a function of running a unit game at predetermined timing in response to the bet and outputting a result of the unit game. In other words, the game running unit113runs a base game in which unit games can be repeatedly run in response to the input of a bet.

The base payout determining unit114determines a payout amount of a base payout to be awarded, based on the result of the unit game and the bet value of the bet. The payout awarding unit115awards a base payout determined by the base payout determining unit114and a special payout calculated by the special payout determining unit119.

The game number counting unit116counts the number of unit games which are repeatedly run in a base game. The special payout condition determining unit117determines whether the base game run by the game running unit113satisfies a predetermined condition.

The bet value average calculating unit118calculates an average of the bet values on the respective unit games counted by the game number counting unit116, when the special payout condition determining unit117determines that the base game satisfies the predetermined condition. More specifically, the bet value average calculating unit118calculates an average of the bet values based on the bet value accumulatively stored in the bet value memory112and the counted number of unit games.

The special payout determining unit119determines an amount of the special payout by multiplying, by a predetermined value, the average of the bet values calculated by the bet value average calculating unit118.

It is noted that each block of the aforesaid controller100may be implemented as software or hardware.

How the controller100operates in the above-described structure is described. First, a bet is input to the bet input unit101by a player. In response to the input, the bet input unit101outputs a bet signal to the bet receiving unit111. The bet receiving unit111receives the bet signal so as to receive the input of the bet. In this way the controller100executes the first process of receiving the input of the bet from the bet input unit101.

Based on the bet received by the bet receiving unit111, the game running unit113runs a unit game at a predetermined timing and outputs a result of the unit game. Based on this result and a bet value of the bet on the unit game, the base payout determining unit114determines an amount of the base payout. The payout awarding unit115awards the determined base payout. In this way the controller100executes the second process of running a unit game at a predetermined timing after receiving the input of the bet and awarding a base payout based on the result of the base game and the bet value of the bet.

The bet receiving unit111accumulatively stores the bet values of the received bets in the bet value memory112. In other words, the controller100executes the third process of accumulatively storing the bet values on the respective unit games, in a base game in which unit games can be repeatedly run.

The game number counting unit116counts up the number of unit games each time the game running unit113runs a unit game. In other words, the controller100executes the fourth process of counting how many times unit games are run in a base game.

The special payout condition determining unit117determines, for each unit game, whether a base game run by the game running unit113satisfies a predetermined condition. When the special payout condition determining unit117has determined that the base game satisfies the predetermined condition, the bet value average calculating unit118calculates an average of the bet values. The special payout determining unit119determines an amount of special payout by multiplying, by a predetermined value, the average bet value calculated by the bet value average calculating unit118. The payout awarding unit115awards the determined special payout. In this way the controller100executes, when a predetermined condition is met in a base game, the fifth process of calculating an average of the bet values on the counted unit games based on the accumulatively stored bet value and awarding a special payout calculated by multiplying the average by a predetermined value.

As the above-described processes clarify, the gaming machine10realizes a playing method including the steps of: receiving the input of a bet from the bet input unit101; after receiving the input of the bet, running a unit game at a predetermined timing and awarding a base payout based on the result of the unit game and the bet value of the bet; in a base game in which unit games can be repeatedly run, accumulatively storing the bet values on the respective unit games; counting how many times unit games are run in the base game; and when a predetermined condition is met in the base game, calculating an average of the bet values bet on the counted unit games based on the accumulatively stored bet value, and awarding a special payout calculated by multiplying the average by a predetermined value.

According to this playing method, the input of a bet is received from the bet input unit101. After receiving the input of the bet, a unit game is run at a predetermined timing, and a payout is awarded based on the result of the unit game and the bet value of the bet. In a base game in which unit games can be repeatedly run, the bet values on the respective unit games are accumulatively stored in the bet value memory. In the base game, how many unit games are run is counted. When a predetermined condition is met in the base game, an average of the bet values bet on the counted unit games is calculated based on the bet value accumulatively stored in the bet value memory, and a payout calculated by multiplying the average by a predetermined value is awarded.

In short, awarded are not only a base payout as a result of a unit game but also a special payout when a predetermined condition is met in a base game. Furthermore, since the special payout is calculated by multiplying an average of the bet values bet in the base game by a predetermined value, a special payout is fairly awarded when a predetermined condition is met in a base game. Therefore a new entertainment characteristic is achieved.

The fifth process executed by the controller100of the gaming machine10may be arranged so that a special payout is awarded when the number of unit games counted by the game number counting unit116reaches a predetermined number. In other words, the controller100may execute the fifth process of calculating an average of the bet values bet on the counted unit games based on the accumulatively stored bet value, when the number of unit games counted by the game number counting unit116reaches a predetermined value, and awarding a special payout calculated by multiplying the average by a predetermined value.

According to the above-described structure, the input of a bet is received from the bet input unit101. After receiving the input of the bet, a unit game is run at a predetermined timing, and a payout is awarded based on the result of the unit game and the bet value of the bet. In a base game in which unit games can be repeatedly run, the bet values on the respective unit games are accumulatively stored in the bet value memory. In the base game, how many unit games are run is counted. When the counted number of unit games in the base game reaches a predetermined number, an average of the bet values bet on the counted unit games is calculated based on the bet value accumulatively stored in the bet value memory, and a payout calculated by multiplying the average by a predetermined value is awarded.

In other words, awarded are not only a base payout as a result of a unit game but also a special payout when unit games are run for a predetermined number of times in a base game. Since a special payout is awarded when the player continuously plays base games, the player is motivated to continuously play games. Furthermore, since a special payout is calculated by multiplying an average of bet values bet in a base game by a predetermined value, the special payout is fairly awarded when a predetermined condition is met in the base game. Therefore a new entertainment characteristic is achieved.

In addition to the above, as shown inFIG. 2, the gaming machine10may further include a mode switch input unit102which allows the player to switch between an insured mode and an uninsured mode, and the controller100may be programmed to execute the third, fourth, and fifth processes only when the insured mode is set by the mode switch input unit102.

According to the structure above, the processes related to a special payout are executed only when the insured mode is set by the mode switch input unit102which can switch between the insured mode and the uninsured mode. This allows the player to play games in a desired mode and hence an entertainment characteristic is further enhanced.

For example, provided that a required bet value in the insured mode is higher than in the uninsured mode, the player can choose either the insured mode in which a special payout may be awarded while each bet value is high or the uninsured mode in which no special payout is awarded but each bet value is low.

An embodiment of the present invention is specifically described. The gaming machine10of the present embodiment includes a lower image display panel16which displays various types of effect images related to a base game. The gaming machine10is structured so that the mode of a base game is switchable between the uninsured mode and the insured mode by operating a later-mentioned insurance mode switching button90which functions as the mode switch input unit (seeFIG. 3).

(Uninsured Mode and Insured Mode)

In the gaming machine10of the present embodiment, the shift from the uninsured mode to the insured mode or from the insured mode to the uninsured mode occurs when the insurance mode switching button90is pressed. In other words, when the insurance mode switching button90is pressed, the shift to the insured mode occurs if a base game is in the uninsured mode, and the shift to the uninsured mode occurs when a base game is in the insured mode.

A unit game in the insured mode requires a larger number of game media than a unit game in the uninsured mode. In other words, to obtain the same base payout, it is necessary in the insured mode to bet a larger number of game media than in the uninsured mode. Note that, the number of unit games run in the insured mode (hereinafter, this may be referred to as the number of insured games) is counted and a special payout (hereinafter, this may be referred to as consolation payout) is awarded when the number of unit games reaches a predetermined number (100). A condition where the number of insured games reaches a predetermined number is equivalent to a condition where a predetermined condition of the present invention is met.

In this way, the player is allowed to choose either the uninsured mode in which each bet value is small and only a base payout is expected or the insured mode in which each bet value is large and both a base payout and a special payout are expected. Since the player can play with a desired mode, he/she feels less stressful and an entertainment characteristic is further enhanced.

In the present embodiment, the gaming machine10is structured so that the player is able to choose either the uninsured mode or the insured mode. Alternatively, the gaming machine10may be structured to be fixed to the insured mode.

FIG. 1shows an example of images displayed on the later-described lower image display panel16. The gaming machine10of the present embodiment (seeFIG. 3) is structured so that the following types of payout can be awarded: a base payout which is awarded as a result of a bet on a unit game; and a special payout which is awarded when a predetermined condition is met in a base game in which plural unit games are run.

The special payout is discussed with reference toFIG. 1. In the gaming machine10of the present embodiment, the uninsured mode is shifted to the insured mode when the insurance mode switching button90(seeFIG. 3) is pressed. In the base game after the shift to the insured mode, the number of unit games is counted. When the counted number of unit games (hereinafter, this may be referred to as the number of insured games) reaches a predetermined number (100), a special payout is awarded. A condition where the number of insured games reaches a predetermined number is equivalent to a condition where a predetermined condition of the present invention is met.

Specifically, as shown in the upper part ofFIG. 1, the lower image display panel16displays a countdown image500. This countdown image500shows a remaining number of games until the number of insured games reaches a predetermined number (100). In the example shown in the upper part ofFIG. 1, the countdown image500shows that one game remains until the number of insured games reaches the predetermined number (100).

The upper part ofFIG. 1also shows that the lower image display panel16further displays an insured game number indicator800, an accumulative bet value indicator801, and an average bet value indicator802. The insured game number indicator800indicates the number of insured games. The accumulative bet value indicator801indicates the accumulative value of bets. The accumulative value of bets indicates the total amount of game media bet on a base game after the shift to the insured mode. The average bet value indicator802indicates an average value of bets. The average value of bets is calculated by dividing the number of insured games from the accumulative value of bets. Specifically, in the example shown in the upper part ofFIG. 1, the number of insured games is 99, the accumulative value of bets is 4380, and the average value of bets is 4380÷99≈44.24.

The lower part ofFIG. 1shows that an achievement effect image201is displayed for the reason that the number of insured games has reached the predetermined number (100). The achievement effect image201indicates that a special payout is awarded as consolation payout when the number of insured games reaches the predetermined number. The special payout is calculated by multiplying the average of the bet values bet on the predetermined number of (100) unit games by a predetermined value (20). In the example shown in the lower part ofFIG. 1, the special payout is 20×44.30=886.

In this way, the player can expect not only a base payout as a result of a unit game but also a special payout which is awarded when a predetermined number of unit games are run in a base game. Furthermore, since a special payout is awarded as a result of continued playing of base games, the player is motivated to continue the game play. In the meanwhile, a special payout is calculated by multiplying, by a predetermined value, an average bet value of a base game. Therefore, no matter how the player places a bet, a special payout is fairly awarded when a predetermined condition is met in a base game. This provides a new entertainment characteristic.

(Running of Base Game)

Referring toFIG. 4, an example of a base game in the gaming machine10is discussed. As shown inFIG. 4, the discussion presupposes that the lower image display panel16of the gaming machine10arranges symbols by a video reel.

As shown inFIG. 4B, a matrix156is arranged at the central part of the lower image display panel16. This matrix156is an arrangement area where symbols are arranged and where plural symbols180are scroll-displayed. The display windows151to153are respectively divided into upper stages151ato153a, central stages151bto153b, and lower stages151cto153c. The base symbols180are stopped (arranged) in each of the stages151ato153a,151bto153b, and151cto153c. The matrix156is a symbol matrix made up of 3 columns and 3 rows. The matrix156however is not limited to the one with the three-columns and three-rows.

The “arrangement” in this embodiment means a state where the symbols180can be visually observed by a player. That is, as shown inFIG. 4B, “arrangement” means that the symbols180are displayed in the matrix156. In the example shown inFIG. 4B, “BLANK” symbols which do not display any images are arranged in the upper stage151a, the lower stage152c, and the upper stage153a. Therefore the player who sees the blank arrangement area of the matrix156is able to confirm that “BLANK” symbols180are arranged. Arranging the base symbols180again after dismissing them is referred to as “rearranging”.

As shown inFIG. 9A, when a unit game starts in the gaming machine10, plural symbols180are variably displayed on the lower image display panel16. As shown inFIG. 4B, then the variable display of the symbols180automatically stops after a predetermined period elapses, with the result that plural symbols180are rearranged on the matrix156. In other words, symbols180are rearranged as a result of the unit game. Thereafter it is determined whether a winning is met, in accordance with the combination of the rearranged symbols180. If a winning is met, a base payout is awarded based on the winning and the bet value.

FIG. 5shows a base game symbol table indicating relations among symbol columns of symbols180displayed on the matrix156of the lower image display panel16, code numbers, and random number ranges. As shown inFIG. 5, a single symbol column is constituted by 20 symbols. Each of the symbols constituting the symbol column is assigned with a code number selected from the range of 0 to 19. Each symbol column is constituted by the following symbols: “BAR×3”, “BAR×2”, “BAR”, “BLANK”, “Red 7”, “Blue 7”, and “White 7”. The symbols180rearranged in the matrix156are determined based on in which one of the random number ranges of the symbol column a random value generated by a later-mentioned random number generator64is included.

In addition, as shown inFIG. 9B, 5 pay lines are provided in accordance with 9 viewable stop positions of symbols. In other words, displayed on the lower image display panel16are: a top line300b, a center line300c, and a bottom line300deach of which horizontally traverses the three symbols that are vertically aligned; and a cross-down line300aand a cross-up line300eeach of which obliquely crosses over the symbols.

Each of these pay lines is activated in accordance with a bet value. Specifically, one pay line (only the center line300c) is activated when 1 to 10 coin(s) is/are bet, two pay lines (the center line300cand the top line300b) are activated when 11 to 20 coins are bet, three pay lines (the center line300c, the top line300b, and the bottom line300d) are activated when 21 to 30 coins are bet, four pay lines (the center line300c, the top line300b, the bottom line300d, and the cross-down line300a) are activated when 31 to 40 coins are bet, and five pay lines (the center line300c, the top line300b, the bottom line300d, the cross-down line300a, and the cross-up line300e) are activated when 41 to 50 coins are bet. It is noted that the lower image display panel16displays only an activated pay line and a corresponding one of pay line images65a,65b,65c,65d, and65ewhich indicate that the center line300c, the top line300b, the bottom line300d, the cross-down line300a, and the cross-up line300eare active, respectively. In other words, a pay line image65is displayed only in the vicinity of a displayed pay line.

The pay lines300ato300erelate to the determination of whether a winning is met. Specifically, a combination of symbols180corresponding to a predetermined winning is rearranged on any one of activated pay lines, so that a winning is met. Referring toFIG. 6, the following describes a combination of symbols180with which a winning is met.

FIG. 6shows a base game payout table. This base game payout table is used when it is determined that a winning is met in a base game and when a payout is awarded according to the winning. The base game payout table has a winning column and a payout number column. The winning column shows combinations of symbols180, each of which combination must be rearranged on a pay line to meet a winning. The payout number column indicates the number of game media (base payout) for each bet, which is paid out when a winning is met.

The example shown inFIG. 26is specifically described. When three symbols “BAR×3” are rearranged on a pay line, the number of payout is 60 for each bet. When three symbols “BAR×2” are rearranged on a pay line, the number of payout is 40 for each bet. When three symbols “BAR” are rearranged on a pay line, the number of payout for each bet is 20. When three symbols selected from the symbols “BAR×3”, “BAR×2”, and “BAR” are rearranged on a pay line, the number of payout for each bet is 10. When three symbol “BLANK” are rearranged on a pay line, the number of payout for each bet is 1. When three symbols “Red 7” are rearranged on a pay line, the number of payout for each bet is 600. When three symbols “Blue 7” are rearranged on a pay line, the number of payout for each bet is 300. When three symbols selected from the symbols “Red 7”, “Blue 7”, and “White 7” are rearranged on a pay line, the number of payout for each bet is 100.

The present invention can be adapted so that a predetermined scatter symbol is determined in advance for each symbol. A scatter symbol is such that a state advantageous for the player is achieved when a predetermined number or more of scatter symbols are displayed in the matrix156. For example, a base game may shift to an advantageous state when three or more symbols “BONUS” are rearranged in the matrix156. It is noted that examples of such an advantageous state include a state in which coins corresponding to scatter symbols are paid out, a state in which the number of payout of game media is added to the credit, and a state in which a bonus game starts.

The gaming machine10is not necessarily structured to award only the aforesaid special payout and base payout. The gaming machine10may be structured to additionally award another state advantageous for the player. Examples of such a state advantageous for the player include a state in which the number of obtainable game media is larger than the base game, a state in which the probability of obtaining game media is higher than the base game, and a state in which the number of consumed game media is smaller than the base game. Specific examples of the advantageous state are a free game, a second game, and a feature game. The free game is such that a predetermined number of games are playable without betting a game medium.

FIG. 3is a perspective view showing the external appearance of the gaming machine10of an embodiment of the present invention. The gaming machine10includes a cabinet11, a top box12provided above the cabinet11, and a main door13provided on the front surface of the cabinet11.

The main door13is provided with the lower image display panel16. The lower image display panel16has a transparent liquid crystal panel and displays plural arrangement areas forming a 3×3 matrix. Each arrangement area displays a single symbol.

The present embodiment presupposes that the gaming machine10is a so-called video slot machine. The slot machine of the present invention, however, may be structured to display and stop symbols by mechanical reel. It is also noted that the lower image display panel16displays various not-shown images concerning effects, in addition to the aforesaid images.

On the front surface of the lower image display panel16, an unillustrated touch panel69is provided. The player can input various types of instructions by operating the touch panel69. As the touch panel69is operated, an input signal is transmitted from the touch panel69to the main CPU41.

Provided below the lower image display panel16are a control panel20constituted by buttons23to27and90by which the player inputs instructions concerning the game progress, a coin receiving slot21which allows a coin to be inserted into the cabinet11, and a bill validator22.

The control panel20has a start button23, a change button24, a cashout button25, a 1-BET button26, a maximum BET button27, and an insurance mode switching button90. The start button23is used for inputting an instruction to start the scroll of symbols. The change button24is used to ask a staff person of the gaming facility for money exchange. The cashout button25is for inputting an instruction to pay out coins corresponding to the total credit into a coin tray18.

The 1-BET button26is for inputting an instruction to bet, on a game, one coin among coins corresponding to the credit. The maximum BET button27is for inputting an instruction to bet, on a game, the maximum number of coins bettable on one game (e.g., fifty coins in this embodiment) among coins corresponding to the credit. The insurance mode switching button90is for inputting an instruction to shift from the uninsured mode to the insured mode.

The 1-BET button26and the maximum BET button27constitute a bet input unit of the present invention. The bet input unit of the present invention, however, is not limited to the buttons. The bet input unit of the present invention may be a touch panel, for example.

The bill validator22validates whether a bill is genuine or not and receives the genuine bill into the cabinet11. Note that the bill validator22may be capable of reading a barcoded ticket39which will be described later. On a lower front surface of the main door13, that is, below the control panel20, a belly glass34is provided. On this belly glass34a character of the gaming machine10or the like is drawn.

On a front surface of the top box12is provided an upper image display panel33. The upper image display panel33has a liquid crystal panel, and displays an image representing game introduction or game rules, or the like.

The top box12is further provided with a speaker29. Provided below the upper image display panel33are a ticket printer35, a card reader36, a data displayer37, and a keypad38. The ticket printer35prints, on to a ticket, a barcode which is an encoded form of data such as a credit-value, date and time, identification number of the gaming machine10, and the like. The player can play a game in another slot machine using the barcoded ticket39having the barcode, or can exchange the barcoded ticket39having the barcode with a bill or the like at a predetermined place in the gaming facility, such as a change booth of the casino.

The card reader36reads and writes data from and into a smart card. The smart card is carried by a player, and stores therein data for identifying the player and data relating to a history of games played by the player, for example. The smart card may store data of coins, bills, credit, or the like. In place of the smart card, a magnetic stripe card may be used. The data displayer37is constituted by a fluorescent display and the like and displays, for example, data read out by the card reader36and data input by the player through the keypad38. The keypad38is for inputting an instruction and data regarding the issuance of a ticket or the like.

FIG. 7is a block diagram of the internal structure of the slot machine ofFIG. 3. The gaming board50has a CPU (Central Processing Unit)51, a ROM55, a boot ROM52, a card slot53S corresponding to a memory card53, and an IC socket54S corresponding to a GAL (Generic Array Logic)54. The CPU51, the ROM55, and the boot ROM52are connected to one another through an internal bus.

The memory card53is constituted by a non-volatile memory such as compact flash (registered trademark) and stores therein a game program. The game program contains a symbol determining program. The symbol determining program determines symbols to be rearranged on the display block28.

The card slot53S is structured so as to allow the memory card53to be attached and detached to and from the card slot53S. This card slot53S is connected to the motherboard40through an IDE bus. Thus, a type and contents of a game run at the gaming machine10can be changed by detaching the memory card53from the card slot53S, writing a different game program into the memory card53, and inserting the memory card53back into the card slot53S. The game program includes a program relating to a game progress. The game program also includes data of images and sounds to be output during a game.

The CPU51, the ROM55, and the boot ROM52connected to one another through the internal bus are connected to the motherboard40through a PCI bus. The PCI bus communicates signals between the motherboard40and the gaming board50, and supplies power from the motherboard40to the gaming board50.

The motherboard40is structured by using a commercially-available general-purpose mother board (printed-wiring board on which basic components of a personal computer are mounted) and has a main CPU41, a ROM (Read Only Memory)42, and a RAM (Random Access Memory)43. Note that the motherboard40corresponds to the controller of the present invention.

The ROM42is constituted by a memory device such as flash memory and stores a program such as BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) run by the main CPU41, and permanently-used data. When the BIOS is run by the main CPU41, an initialization process is executed so that a predetermined peripheral devices is initialized, and a readout process is executed so that the game program stored in the memory card53is read out through the gaming board50. In the present invention, the ROM42may be rewritable or non-rewritable.

The RAM43stores data for the operation of the main CPU41and a program such as a symbol determining program, for example. The RAM43can also store a game program.

The RAM43stores data such as a credit-value, a bet value on one unit game, and a payout number. The RAM43also stores a total bet value, the number of games, an average bet value, and the like. In other words, the RAM43functions as a bet value memory which accumulatively stores bet values on respective bets.

The RAM43is provided with an insured game number storage area, an accumulated bet value storage area, and an average bet value storage area. Stored in the insured game number storage area is insured game number data which indicates the number of insured games. Stored in the accumulated bet value storage area is accumulated bet value data which indicates the accumulative value of bets. Stored in the average bet value storage area is average bet value data which indicates the average value of bets.

The RAM43is further provided with a storage area for an insurance flag. This insurance flag is set when the insurance mode switching button90is pressed. The storage area for the insurance flag is, for example, made up of a predetermined number of bits and the insurance flag is switched on and off in accordance with the content stored in the storage area. The mode in which the insurance flag is switched on is equivalent to the insured mode. The state in which the insurance flag is switched off is equivalent to the uninsured mode.

The motherboard40is connected to a later-mentioned main body PCB (Printed Circuit Board)60and a door PCB80by USB. The motherboard40is further connected with a power supply unit45.

The main body PCB60and the door PCB80are connected with a device and equipment which generate an input signal to the main CPU41and a device and equipment which are controlled by a control signal output from the main CPU41. Based on the input signal to the main CPU41, the main CPU41executes a game program stored in the RAM43so as to perform a predetermined arithmetic process and stores the result of the process in the RAM43and performs a process of controlling each equipment and device by transmitting a control signal thereto.

The main body PCB60is connected to a lamp30, a hopper66, a coin sensor67, a graphic board68, a speaker29, a touch panel69, a bill validator22, a ticket printer35, a card reader36, a key switch38S, a data displayer37, and a random number generator64. The lamp30is turned on/off in accordance with a predetermined pattern, based on a control signal output from the main CPU41. In the present embodiment, a random number is generated by the random number generator64which outputs a so-called a hardware random number. However, not limited to this, a random number may be a so-called software random number generated by a program.

The hopper66is mounted within the cabinet11and pays out a predetermined number of coins through a coin outlet19into the coin tray18, based on a control signal output from the main CPU41. The coin sensor67is provided inside the coin outlet19. When the coin sensor67senses that a predetermined number of coins have been delivered from the coin outlet19, the coin sensor67outputs a signal to be input to the main CPU41.

The graphic board68controls image display on the upper image display panel33and the lower image display panel16, based on a control signal output from the main CPU41. In the symbol arrangement area of the lower image display panel16displayed is symbols which are scrolled and stopped. The credit value indicator400of the lower image display panel16displays the credit value stored in the RAM43. The bet value indicator401of the lower image display panel16displays the number of betted coins. The payout indicator402of the lower image display panel16displays the number of coins to be paid out.

In addition to the above, the graphic board68is provided with a VDP (Video Display Processor) for generating image data based on a control signal output from the main CPU41, a video RAM for temporarily storing the image data generated by the VDP, and the like. Note that image data used at the time when the VDP generates the image data are included in the game program which has been read out from the memory card53and stored in the RAM43.

The bill validator22validates a bill and takes only one recognized to be genuine into the cabinet11. When taking in a genuine bill, the bill validator22outputs, to the main CPU41, an input signal based on a value of the bill. The main CPU41stores into the RAN43a credit value equivalent to the value of the bill indicated by the signal.

Based on a control signal output from the main CPU41, the ticket printer35prints, onto a ticket, a barcode which is an encoded form of data such as a credit value stored in the RAM43, date and time, identification number of the gaming machine10, and the like. As a result, the ticket printer35issues a barcoded ticket39.

The card reader36reads data from a smart card and transmits the data to the main CPU41, and writes data into the smart card based on a control signal from the main CPU41. The key switch38S is mounted to the keypad38, and outputs a predetermined signal to the main CPU41in response to a player's operation on the keypad38. The data displayer37displays, based on a control signal output from the main CPU41, data read by the card reader36or data input by the player through the keypad38.

The random number generator64generates a random number at a predetermined timing. Random numbers generated by the random number generator64fall within the range of 0 to 65535.

The door PCB80is connected to a control panel20, a reverter21S, a coin counter21C, and a cold cathode tube81. The control panel20is provided with: a start switch23S associated with the start button23; a change switch24S associated with the change button24; a cashout switch25S associated with the cashout button25; a 1-BET switch26S associated with the 1-BET button26; a maximum BET switch27S associated with the maximum BET button27; and an insurance mode switch90S associated with the insurance mode switching button90. These switches23S to27S and90S output a signal to the main CPU41when the corresponding buttons23to27and90are pressed by the player.

The coin counter21C is provided within the coin receiving slot21, and identifies whether a coin inserted into the coin receiving slot21by the player is genuine. A coin other than a genuine coin is discharged from the coin outlet19. The coin counter21C outputs an input signal to the main CPU41upon detection of a genuine coin.

The reverter21S is operated based on a control signal output from the main CPU41. The reverter21S distributes a coin, which the coin counter21C has recognized as a genuine coin, to the hopper66or a cash box (not shown) mounted in the gaming machine10. In other words, when the hopper66is full of coins, a genuine coin is distributed into the cash box by the reverter21S. On the other hand, when the hopper66is not yet full of coins, a genuine coin is distributed into the hopper66. The cold cathode tube81functions as a backlight mounted to the rear side of the lower image display panel16and the rear side of the upper image display panel33. The cold cathode tube81turns on based on a control signal output from the main CPU41.

(Processing of Gaming Machine10: Base Game Running Process)

Referring toFIG. 8, the following explains how the gaming machine10having the above-described structure operates in a base game.FIG. 5is a flowchart of a base game running process executed by the main CPU41.

First, the main CPU41determines whether a coin is bet (step S10). In this step, the main CPU41determines whether an input signal is received. The input signal is output either from the 1-BET switch26S when the 1-BET button26is pressed or from the maximum BET switch27S when the maximum BET button27is pressed. If it is determined that no coin is bet, the process returns to the step S10.

If it is determined in the step S10that a game medium is bet, the main CPU41reduces the credit value stored in the RAM43, in accordance with the number of betted game media (step S11). When the number of betted game media is larger than the credit value stored in the RAM43, the process returns to the step S10without performing the step of reducing the credit value stored in the RAM43. If the number of betted game media exceeds the maximum bettable number (50 in this embodiment) of game media on each game, the process proceeds to the step S12without performing the step of reducing the credit value stored in the RAM43.

The credit value reduced in the step S11corresponds to the mode of insurance. Specifically, when the base game is in the uninsured mode, the credit value equivalent to the number of betted media is reduced. On the other hand, when the base game in the insured mode, the credit value to be reduced is equal to the result of adding 2 to the number of betted game media.

Thereafter, the main CPU41determines whether the start button23is pressed (step S12). In this step, the main CPU41determines whether an input signal which is output from the start switch23S when the start button23is pressed is received.

If it is determined that the start button23is not pressed, the process returns to the step S10. It is noted that the main CPU41cancels the reduction result of the step S11when the start button23is not pressed (i.e. when an instruction to end the game without the start button23being pressed is input).

In the meanwhile, if it is determined in the step S12that the start button23is pressed, the main CPU41executes a symbol determining process (step S13). In the symbol determining process, the main CPU91runs a symbol determining program (not illustrated) stored in the RAM43so as to determine the code number corresponding to the stopped symbols. More specifically, a random number is obtained and a code number at the time of the rearrangement of the symbols in each symbol column displayed in the matrix156is determined, based on the obtained random number and a random number range corresponding to each code number.

Subsequently, in the step S14the main CPU41executes a scroll display control process. In this process, the display control is performed in such a way that the symbols determined in the step S13are rearranged after the scroll of the symbols is started.

Then the main CPU41determines whether a winning is met (step S15). In the step S15, the main CPU41determines, for each activated pay line300, whether the symbols180rearranged on the pay line300in the step S14form a combination with which a winning is met.

If it is determined that a winning is met, the main CPU41executes a process regarding the payout of game media (step S16). In this process, the main CPU41refers to the base game payout table (seeFIG. 6) stored in the RAM43and determines the number of payout as a base payout, based on the winning achieved by the symbols180rearranged on the activated pay line300.

If the game media are deposited in the step S16, the main CPU41executes in the RAM43a process of increasing the credit value by a value equivalent to the determined number of base payout. On the other hand, if the game media are to be paid out, the main CPU41transmits a control signal to the hopper66so as to pay out the game media equivalent to the determined number of base payout.

Either if it is determined in the step S15that no winning is met or if the step S16has been executed, the main CPU41determines whether an insurance flag is switched on (step S17). The insurance flag is switched on and off as the insurance mode switching button90is pressed. Switching the insurance flag on or off causes the base game to be in the insured mode or the uninsured mode. The shift of the mode of insurance will be discussed later with reference toFIG. 10.

If it is determined in the step S17that the insurance flag is not switched on, the main CPU41terminates the routine. On the other hand, if it is determined that the insurance flag is switched on, the main CPU41executes an insurance process (step S18). This insurance process will be detailed later with reference toFIG. 9. After the step S18, the main CPU41terminates the routine.

The insurance process executed by the main CPU41is described with reference to the flowchart ofFIG. 9. This insurance process is a sub routine called by the base game running process and is executed when the base game is set in the insured mode.

First, the main CPU41updates the accumulated bet value (step S100). More specifically, a bet value betted in each unit game is accumulatively added to the accumulated bet value stored in the RAM43, and the main CPU41increments the number of games by 1 (step S101). Specifically, the number calculated by adding 1 to the stored number of games is stored in the RAM43. Thereafter an average bet value is calculated (step S102). Specifically, the average bet value is calculated by dividing the accumulated bet value, which is accumulatively stored, by the number of games. Although not illustrated, the display on each of the insured game number indicator800, the accumulative bet value indicator801, and the average bet value indicator802are updated based on the incremented number of games, the updated accumulated bet value, and the calculated average bet value.

The main CPU41then determines whether the number of games is equal to a predetermined number (step S103). Specifically, it is determined whether the number of games incremented in the step S101is equal to a predetermined number (100 in the present embodiment). If it is determined that the number of games is not equal to the predetermined number, the routine is terminated.

On the other hand, if it is determined in the step S103that the number of games is equal to the predetermined number, the number of special payout is calculated (step S104). Specifically, the average bet value calculated in the step S102is multiplied by a predetermined number (20 in the present embodiment) so that a special payout is calculated. Then a special payout image including an achievement effect image201is displayed (see the lower part ofFIG. 1).

The main CPU41awards the calculated special payout (step S106) and resets the accumulated bet value stored in the RAM43, resets the number of games to zero and terminates the routine.

(Processing of Gaming Machine10: Insurance Mode Shifting Process)

Referring to the flowchart ofFIG. 10, an insurance mode shifting process executed by the main CPU41is discussed. The insurance mode shifting process is a routine for switching the mode of insurance as the insurance mode switching button90is operated.

First, the main CPU41determines whether the insurance mode switching button90is operated (step S200). In this step. the main CPU41determines whether an input signal is received which is output from the insurance mode switch90S when the insurance mode switching button90is pressed. When it is determined that the insurance mode switching button90is not operated, the main CPU41terminates this sub routine.

On the other hand, if it is determined that the insurance mode switching button90is pressed, the main CPU41determines whether the insurance flag stored in the RAM43is switched on (step S201). If it is determined that the insurance flag is switched on, the main CPU41sets the insurance flag in the on-state (step S202) and terminates the routine. On the other hand, if it is determined that the insurance flag is not switched on, the main CPU41sets the insurance flag in the off-state (step S203) and terminates the routine.

In this way, the gaming machine10receives an input of a bet as a result of the operation of the 1-BET button26, the maximum BET button27, or the like. After receiving the input of the bet, the start button23is pressed so that a single slot game which is a unit game is run, and a payout is awarded according to the betted amount. In a base game in which unit games can be repeatedly played, a bet value is accumulatively stored in the RAM43each time a unit game is run. In a base game, the number of unit games is counted in such a way that the number of games stored in the RAM43is incremented each time a unit game is run. When a predetermined condition is met in a base game, an average of bet values bet on respective counted unit games is calculated by dividing the accumulated bet value stored in the RAM43by the number of games, and a payout amount calculated by multiplying the average by a predetermined value is awarded.

That is to say, the player may be awarded not only a base payout as a result of a unit game but also a special payout when a predetermined condition is met in a base game. Furthermore, since the special payout is calculated by multiplying an average of bet values in the base game by a predetermined value, the special payout is fairly awarded when the predetermined condition is met in a base game. This provides a new entertainment characteristic.

Furthermore, the gaming machine10is arranged so that a special payout is awarded when the number of unit games counted in a base game reaches a predetermined number. In other words, since a special payout is awarded as a result of continued playing of base games, the player is motivated to continue the game play.

Furthermore, the gaming machine10is arranged so that the processes regarding a special payout are executed only when the insured mode is set by the insurance mode switching button90which can switch between the insured mode and the uninsured mode. This allows the player to play games in a desired mode and hence an entertainment characteristic is further enhanced.

In the present embodiment, the player is allowed to choose either the uninsured mode in which each bet value is small and only a base payout is expected or the insured mode in which each bet value is larger than the uninsured mode and both a base payout and a special payout are expected. This makes it possible to enhance the entertainment characteristic.

Upon the power on, the main CPU41of the slot machine1executes a boot process routine shown inFIG. 11. This boot process is executed by the motherboard40and the gaming board50. The process assumes that the memory card53is inserted into the card slot53S of the gaming board50and the GAL54is attached to the IC socket54S.

First, upon the power on, i.e. when the power switch of the power supply unit45is switched on, the motherboard40and the gaming board50are activated. When the motherboard40and the gaming board50are activated, different processes are simultaneously executed. That is to say, in the gaming board50, the CPU51reads out a preliminary authentication program from the boot ROM52, and performs preliminary authentication in which whether the falsification of the authentication program is not performed is confirmed and verified before the readout to the motherboard40, in accordance with the preliminary authentication program thus read out (step S1). On the other hand, in the motherboard40, the main CPU41runs the BIOS stored in the ROM42so as to develop in the RAM43the compressed data incorporated into the BIOS (step S2). Then the main CPU41runs the BIOS developed in the RAM43, so as to diagnose and initialize various peripheral devices (step S3).

The main CPU41is connected to the ROM55of the gaming board50via the PCI bus. For this reason the main CPU41executes a process of reading out an authentication program from the ROM55and storing the authentication program in the RAM43(step S4). In doing so, the main CPU41derives a checksum through ADDSUM method (a standard check function) which is adopted in a standard BIOS, and stores the authentication program into RAM43while confirming if the operation of storing is carried out without an error.

Next, the main CPU41checks what is connected to the IDE bus. Then, the main CPU41accesses, via the IDE bus, to the memory card53inserted into the card slot53S, and reads out a game program and a game system program from the memory card53. In this case, the main CPU41reads out four bytes of data constituting the game program and the game system program at one time. Next, in accordance with the authentication program stored in the RAM43, the main CPU41authenticates the game program and the game system program read out, to confirm and prove that these programs are not modified (step S5).

When the authentication process properly ends, the main CPU41writes and stores the authenticated game program and game system program into the RAM43(step S6).

Next, the main CPU41accesses, via the PCI bus, to the GAL54attached to the IC socket54S, and reads out payout rate setting data from the GAL54. The data read out is then written and stored in the RAM43(step S7).

Next, the main CPU41reads out, via the PCI bus, country identification information stored in the ROM55of the gaming board50. The country identification information read out is then written and stored in the RAM43(step S8).

After the step above, the main CPU41executes an initial process shown inFIG. 12by serially reading out the game program and the game system program.

The following describes an initial process which takes place in the gaming machine1. After the boot process shown inFIG. 11is completed, an initial setting routine illustrated inFIG. 12is read out from the RAM43and executed by the main CPU41.

First, the main CPU41checks operations of work memories such as the RAM43, various sensors, various driving mechanisms, and various decorative illuminations (step A1). Then, the main CPU41determines if all the check results are normal (step A2). When the main CPU41determines that the check results are not all normal (A2: NO), the main CPU41outputs an error signal to the server2(step A3), reports the error in the form of illuminating the top lamp49or the like (step A4), and then ends the routine.

On the other hand, in A2, when the main CPU41determines that all the check results are normal (A2: YES), a boot signal is output to the server2(step A5). Then the game program, the game system program and the like are read out from the RAM43(step A6). Based on the programs having been read out, a demo-screen is displayed on the central liquid crystal panel5B or the like (step A7), and the execution of the routine is then terminated.

After the aforesaid initial process, the base game running process ofFIG. 8, the insurance process ofFIG. 9, and the insurance mode shifting process ofFIG. 10become executable.

While the present invention is described in connection with a practical embodiment, it should be appreciated that the invention is not limited to the disclosed embodiment, and the specific arrangements such as means cover various modifications and equivalent arrangements. The effects described in the embodiments are merely listed as most favorable effects of the present invention, and hence the effects of the present invention is not limited to those described in the embodiments of the present invention.

For example, a base game of the present embodiment is switchable between the insured mode and the uninsured mode, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, a base game may be fixed to the insured mode. In such a case, the base game running process ofFIG. 8does not include the determining process of the step S17, and hence the insurance process ofFIG. 9is always executed. This simplifies a base game and thereby facilitating the participation of inexperienced players.

In addition to the above, for example, the gaming machine10may be possible to run both a base game switchable between the insured mode and the uninsured mode and a base game fixed to the insured mode. This increases the diversity of the gaming machine10and hence the entertainment characteristic is improved.

In the present embodiment, a special payout is awarded when unit games are played for a predetermined number of times. The present invention, however, is not limited to this. For example, a special payout may be paid out when symbols form a predetermined arrangement in a slot game and/or a special payout may be awarded when the difference between an accumulated bet value and a payout amount becomes not smaller than a predetermined value.

The detailed description of the present invention provided hereinabove mainly focused on characteristics thereof for the purpose of easier understanding; however, the scope of the present invention shall be construed as broadly as possible, encompassing various forms of other possible embodiments, and therefore the present invention shall not be limited to the above description. Further, the terms and phraseology used in the present specification are adopted solely to provide specific illustration of the present invention, and in no case should the scope of the present invention be limited by such terms and phraseology. Further, it will be obvious for those skilled in the art that the other structures, systems, methods or the like are possible, within the spirit of the invention described in the present specification. The description of claims therefore shall encompass structures equivalent to the present invention, unless otherwise such structures are regarded as to depart from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Further, the abstract is provided to allow, through a simple investigation, quick analysis of the technical features and essences of the present invention by an intellectual property office, a general public institution, or one skilled in the art who is not fully familiarized with patent and legal or professional terminology. It is therefore not an intention of the abstract to limit the scope of the present invention which shall be construed on the basis of the description of the claims. To fully understand the object and effects of the present invention, it is strongly encouraged to sufficiently refer to disclosures of documents already made available.

The detailed description of the present invention provided hereinabove includes a process executed on a computer. The above descriptions and expressions are provided to allow the one skilled in the art to most efficiently understand the present invention. Steps for yielding one result shall be understood as a process with no self-contradiction. Further, the electrical or magnetic signal is transmitted/received and written in the respective steps. It should be noted that such a signal is expressed in the form of bit, value, symbol, text, terms, number, or the like solely for the sake of convenience. Although the present specification occasionally personifies the processes performed in the steps, these processes are essentially executed by various devices. Further, the other structures necessary for the steps are obvious from the above descriptions.