Player tracking device and gaming machine

Provided is a player tracking device which is operable, even when an IC card is taken into a gaming machine while a player is playing a game, to read or write information from or to another IC card or the like through a simplified touch operation. The player tracking device includes: a card unit for storing information pertinent to a play outcome on the gaming machine in an IC card through wireless communication; and a touch unit for reading information from another IC card through the wireless communication.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to a player tracking device which is incorporated into a gaming machine.

BACKGROUND ART

Conventionally, there has been proposed a game system which is operable to conduct a game by using an information card, instead of a paper type method, on gaming machines. Each of the gaming machines which this game system has includes: a bill validator which identifies bills whose currency kinds are different from one another and a money amount of said bill or bills and outputs data indicating a result of the identification; a player tracking device which converts the data outputted from the bill validator to credit data for executing a game based on an exchange rate internally stored and transmits the credit data to a gaming machine; a control device to which an exchange rate is inputted externally and which updates an exchange rate stored in the player tracking device by providing the inputted exchange rate for the player tracking device; and an information card device which causes the information card to store data corresponding to a money amount awarded to a player in accordance with an outcome of the game played on the gaming machine and based on the data corresponding to the money amount read out from the information card to the gaming machine, transmits credit data for executing a game (refer to Patent Literature 1).

Here, the above-described player tracking device is mounted so as to be integrated into each of the gaming machine and is a device for realizing a player tracking system (PTS). The player tracking system is a system which causes an IC card to store an identification information unique to a player (a person who plays a game on a gaming machine) and allows a player to carry this IC card with him or her as an IC card unique to said player and to use this IC card, thereby enabling a player to be identified and managed on a terminal to which this IC card is inserted. When a player inserts the IC card (player card) into the player tracking device, information such as a balance or the like in an account of said player is displayed on a display device or the like of the player tracking device, a game is executed on a gaming machine based on credit data managed by the IC card, and a credit obtained as an outcome of the game is added for the player identified by said IC card.

The player tracking device as described above includes one IC card reader/writer for conducting reading and writing for the IC card and further, a card suction and ejection mechanism for taking in internally the IC card while a player is playing a game. When a player makes settlement, these device and mechanism allow credit information to be written onto the IC card, and the IC card having the credit information written thereon to be ejected externally from a card slot.

CITATION LIST

Patent Literature

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Technical Problem

However, because while a player is playing a game, the IC card is taken inside of the gaming machine by the card suction and ejection mechanism, the gaming machine disclosed in Patent Literature 1 is not operable to read or write information from or to another IC card or the like.

Solution to Problem

The present invention provides a player tracking device and a gaming machine, described below.

In view of the above-described regard, the present invention has been made. Objects of the present invention are to provide a player tracking device which is operable, even when an IC card is taken into a gaming machine while a player is playing a game, to read or write information from or to another IC card or the like through a simplified touch operation; and a gaming machine.

A player tracking device (for example, a PTS terminal1700shown inFIG. 8) according to a first aspect of the present invention has the below-described configuration.

The player tracking device is integrated into a gaming machine (for example, a slot machine1010shown inFIG. 4) and includes:a card unit (for example, a card unit1741shown inFIG. 8) including an IC card writer for storing information pertinent to a play outcome on the gaming machine (for example, credit-related data) in an IC card (for example, an IC card1500) through wireless communication; anda touch unit (for example, a touch unit1745shown inFIG. 8) including an IC device reader for reading information from an IC device (for example, an IC card1500or a mobile phone) including an IC chip through the wireless communication,a controller (for example, a controller1750) of the player tracking device executing processes described below:a process (A) in which the card unit is controlled to taken in and hold the IC card during a game play on the gaming machine; anda process (B) in which in response to approaching of the IC device, the touch unit is controlled to read the information from the IC device.

By employing the above-described configuration, on the player tracking device being integrated into the gaming machine, which includes: the card unit including the IC card writer for storing the information pertinent to the play outcome on the gaming machine in the IC card through the wireless communication; and the touch unit including the IC device reader for reading the information from the IC device including the IC chip through the wireless communication, the card unit is controlled to taken in and hold the IC card during the game play on the gaming machine; and in response to the approaching of the IC device, the touch unit is controlled to read the information from the IC device. Thus, even when the IC card is taken into the gaming machine while a player is playing a game, it is made possible to read or write the information from or to another IC card or the like through the simplified touch operation.

In the first aspect, the player tracking device according to a second aspect of the present invention further has the below-described configuration.

The information read from the IC device is information pertinent to maintenance for the gaming machine.

By employing the above-described configuration, the player tracking device reads the information pertinent to the maintenance for the gaming machine from the IC device. Thus, even when the IC card is taken into the gaming machine while a player is playing a game, it is made possible to conduct the maintenance for the gaming machine by using another IC card or the like.

A gaming machine according to a third aspect of the present invention has the below-described configuration.

The gaming machine on which based on rearranged symbols (for example, symbols1501of pseudo reels1151to1155), a payout is awarded includes:a display device (for example, a lower image display panel1141) for displaying a plurality of reels (for example, the pseudo reels1151to1155), each of the reels having a plurality of symbols depicted on an external surface;a cabinet (for example, a cabinet1011) for internally housing the display device;a controller (for example, a controller1100) for rotating and stopping the plurality of reels and controlling the symbols depicted on the plurality of reels to be rearranged; andthe player tracking device according to the first aspect which is incorporated into the cabinet.

By employing the above-described configuration, the gaming machine includes the player tracking device according to the first aspect, the card unit is controlled to take in and hold the IC card during the game play on the gaming machine, and the touch unit is controlled, in response to the approaching of the IC device, to read the information from the IC device. Thus, even when the IC card is taken into the gaming machine while a player is playing a game, it is made possible to read or write the information from or to another IC card or the like through the simplified touch operation.

A player tracking device according to a fourth aspect of the present invention has the below-described configuration.

The player tracking device is integrated into a gaming machine and includes:a card unit (for example, a card unit1741shown inFIG. 8) including an IC card reader for reading information stored in an IC card through wireless communication; anda USB terminal (for example, a USB terminal1737shown inFIG. 8) to which an electronic device is connected,a controller of the player tracking device executing processes described below:a process (A) in which based on the information in the IC card read by the card unit, whether or not the IC card is an IC card of a member is determined; anda process (B) (for example, a USB control part1759is controlled to supply power from a power supply unit1760to a USB terminal1737) in which when the IC card is determined to be the IC card of the member, control is performed such that power is supplied to the USB terminal and the electronic device connected to the USB terminal is caused to be in a rechargeable state.

By employing the above-described configuration, on the player tracking device being integrated into the gaming machine, which includes: the card unit including the IC card reader for reading the information stored in the IC card through the wireless communication; and the USB terminal to which the electronic device is connected, based on the information in the IC card read by the card unit, whether or not the IC card is the IC card of the member is determined; and when the IC card is determined to be the IC card of the member, the control is performed such that the power is supplied to the USB terminal and the electronic device connected to the USB terminal is caused to be in the rechargeable state. Thus, when a player has become a member, the player can enjoy the benefit in that the electronic device can be recharged by the USB terminal, whereby entry into membership by players of the gaming machines can be promoted.

A gaming machine according to a fifth aspect of the present invention has the below-described configuration.

The gaming machine on which based on rearranged symbols, a payout is awarded includes:a display device for displaying a plurality of reels, each of the reels having a plurality of symbols depicted on an external surface;a cabinet for internally housing the display device;a controller for rotating and stopping the plurality of reels and controlling the symbols depicted on the plurality of reels to be rearranged; andthe player tracking device according to claim4which is incorporated into the cabinet.

By employing the above-described configuration, the gaming machine includes the player tracking device according to the fourth aspect, based on the information in the IC card read by the card unit, it is determined whether or not the IC card is the IC card of the member, and when the IC card is determined to be the IC card of the member, the control is performed such that the power is supplied to the USB terminal and the electronic device connected to the USB terminal is caused to be in the rechargeable state. Thus, when a player has become a member, the player can enjoy the benefit in that the electronic device can be recharged by the USB terminal, whereby entry into membership by players of the gaming machines can be promoted.

A player tracking device according to a sixth aspect of the present invention has the below-described configuration.

The player tracking device is integrated into a gaming machine and includes:a display device (for example, an LCD1719shown inFIG. 8) for displaying information pertinent to service related to a game executed on the gaming machine; anda button (for example, a home button1722shown inFIG. 8) for shifting a screen displayed on the display device to other screen,a controller of the player tracking device executing processes described below:a process (A) in which a position of a touch operation onto the display device (a touch operation onto a touch panel of the LCD1719shown inFIG. 8) is detected, and at this point in time, the screen displayed on the display device is shifted to the other screen in accordance with the position on the display device (for example, a process of returning to a menu screen30shown inFIG. 16Bwhen a “return” button display part38of a top menu34for restaurant reservation shown inFIG. 16Cis touched); anda process (B) in which when the button is pressed, at this point in time, display on the display device is shifted to a predetermined upper level screen related to the screen displayed on the display device (for example, a process of returning to the top menu34for the restaurant reservation shown inFIG. 16Cwhen the home button1722is pressed while a confirmation screen38eshown inFIG. 17is displayed).

By employing the above-described configuration, on the player tracking device being integrated into the gaming machine, which includes: the display device for displaying the information pertinent to the service related to the game executed on the gaming machine; and the button for shifting the screen displayed on the display device to the other screen, the position of the touch operation onto the display device is detected, and at this point in time, the screen displayed on the display device is shifted to the other screen in accordance with the position on the display device; and when the button is pressed, at this point in time, the display on the display device is shifted to the predetermined upper level screen related to the screen displayed on the display device. Thus, it is not required to arrange a button on the display device of the player tracking device, and no overload is exerted on a display area of the display device. In addition, jumping to the fixed screen by pressing the button is conducted, thereby allowing a sense of ease to be imparted to a player who hesitates over an operation.

A gaming machine according to a seventh aspect of the present invention has the below-described configuration.

The gaming machine on which based on rearranged symbols, a payout is awarded includes:a display device for displaying a plurality of reels, each of the reels having a plurality of symbols depicted on an external surface;a cabinet for internally housing the display device;a controller for rotating and stopping the plurality of reels and controlling the symbols depicted on the plurality of reels to be rearranged; andthe player tracking device according to claim6which is incorporated into the cabinet.

By employing the above-described configuration, the gaming machine includes the player tracking device according to the sixth aspect, the position of the touch operation onto the display device is detected and at this point in time, the screen displayed on the display device is shifted to the other screen in accordance with the position on the display device, and when the button is pressed, at this point in time, the display on the display device is shifted to the predetermined upper level screen related to the screen displayed on the display device. Thus, it is not required to arrange a button on the display device of the player tracking device, and no overload is exerted on a display area of the display device. In addition, jumping to the fixed screen by pressing the button is conducted, thereby allowing a sense of ease to be imparted to a player who hesitates over an operation.

Effects of the Invention

By employing the configuration of the gaming machine according to the present invention, even when the IC card is taken into the gaming machine while a player is playing a game, it is made possible to read or write information from or to another IC card or the like through the simplified touch operation. For example, in order to conduct maintenance or the like for a gaming machine while a player is playing a game, the touch unit is touched with an IC card for maintenance, thereby allowing a screen for the maintenance to be displayed on an LCD of the PTS terminal and contents and a history of the maintenance to be transmitted to a server and be accumulated therein.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[Description of Outline of Game System]

First, with reference toFIG. 1, an outline of a game system will be described.FIG. 1is a schematic diagram schematically illustrating an overview of the game system1according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

The game system1includes: a hall management server10, a bonus server11, a setting management server12, a membership management server13, and a plurality of gaming machines.

The hall management server10totalizes and manages a flow of money within a hall (game facility), prepares a balance sheet and the like, and manages the other servers. In addition, the hall management server10obtains, from the respective gaming machines, accounting information which includes timing at which each of the gaming machines starts a unit game; timing at which each of the gaming machines terminates the unit game; a drawing result in the unit game; and the like and accumulates the accounting information.

The bonus server11controls a bonus drawing in a bonus game and linkage presentation conducted in association with the bonus drawing. In addition, the bonus server11, for example, manages an accumulated value for providing a bonus (for example, credits accumulated for a progressive bonus). The setting management server12stores and manages setting related to gaming machines, on each of which the bonus drawing is conducted, and setting related to the linkage presentation. It is to be noted that although in the present embodiment, the description is given by taking the bonus game as an example, other kinds of games may be conducted.

The membership management server13is a server which stores and manages personal information of members, membership card (IC card) information, the past game outcomes of the members, and the like. Issuance of membership cards (IC cards) is made by, for example, a membership card issuing terminal. The personal information of the members, inputted upon member registration, is stored on the membership management server13together with identification codes of the membership cards. In addition, the membership card issuing terminal is provided with a camera which allows also shooting of a face of a player for which an IC card is issued upon issuing of a membership card. The shot image is stored on the membership management server13so as to be associated with an identification code.

As shown inFIG. 1, the gaming machines are installed in a plurality of areas (for example, as shown inFIG. 1, A-1to A-3). Here, the areas correspond to, for example, one floor of a hall or areas within the floor. In this example, although the areas from A-1to A-3are shown, this is merely one example.

Further, the gaming machines are installed in each zone (for example, as shown inFIG. 1, in Z-1to Z-4) within each of the areas. Here, each of the zones corresponds to specific space within each of the areas. In this example, although the four zones (Z-1to Z-4) are provided in each of the areas, respectively, this is also merely one example. In addition, in this example, although eight gaming machines are installed in each one of the zones, respectively, this is also merely one example, and various numbers of the gaming machines can be installed.

As shown inFIG. 1, in the zone Z-1of the area A-1, eight gaming machines of T-11ato T-11hare installed; similarly, in the zone Z-2of the area A-1, eight gaming machines of T-12ato T-12hare installed (thereinafter, not shown); in the zone Z-3of the area A-1, eight gaming machines of T-13ato T-13hare installed; and in the zone Z-4of the area A-1, eight gaming machines of T-14ato T-14hare installed.

Further, as shown inFIG. 1, in the zone Z-1of the area A-2, eight gaming machines of T-21ato T-21hare installed; similarly, in the zone Z-2of the area A-2, eight gaming machines of T-21ato T-22hare installed (thereinafter, not shown); in the zone Z-3of the area A-2, eight gaming machines of T-23ato T-23hare installed; and in the zone Z-4of the area A-2, eight gaming machines of T-24ato T-24hare installed. In addition, in the zone Z-1of the area A-3, eight gaming machines of T-31ato T-31hare installed; similarly, in the zone Z-2of the area A-3, eight gaming machines of T-32ato T-32hare installed (thereinafter, not shown); in the zone Z-3of the area A-3, eight gaming machines of T-33ato T-33hare installed; and in the zone Z-4of the area A-3, eight gaming machines of T-34ato T-34hare installed.

It is to be noted that although it is schematically shown that the respective gaming machines are connected to the hall management server10and the bonus server11via a LAN connection by Ethernet (a registered trademark), the more detailed connection form will be described later.

In addition, each of the gaming machines is provided with a unique identifier, and the hall management server10or the like identifies transmission sources of data transmitted from the respective gaming machines by using the identifiers. In addition, also in a case where the hall management server10or the like transmits data to the gaming machines, based on the identifiers, transmission destinations are specified. Although as the identifiers, for example, network addresses such as IP addresses can be used, identifiers other than the network addresses may be provided, thereby allowing the individual gaming machines to be managed.

It is to be noted that the game system1may be constructed within one hall (game facility) where various games can be conducted or may be constructed over a plurality of game facilities. In addition, when the game system1is constructed in a single game facility, the game system1may be constructed in each floor or section of the game facility. A communication line for connecting the servers and the gaming machines may be a wired or wireless line and can adopt a dedicated line, an exchange line, or the like.

[Description of Outline of Gaming Machine]

Next, with reference toFIG. 2, an outline of a gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described. InFIG. 2, a configuration of a slot machine1010which is a gaming machine configured integrally with a player tracking device (Player Tracking Device) is conceptually shown. It is to be noted that the player tracking device is a terminal for realizing a player tracking system (Player Tracking System) and in the present specification, hereinafter, this device is referred to as a PTS terminal. It is to be noted that although in the below description, a case where the slot machine is used as the gaming machine will be described, the present invention is not limited to the case of the slot machine and is applicable to a gaming machine which conducts a variety of games.

As shown inFIG. 2, the slot machine1010has the PTS terminal1700mounted therein and further includes a settlement apparatus1868. The slot machine1010is connected via the PTS terminal1700to the hall management server10, the bonus server11, and the like via a network. In the present embodiment, one slot machine1010is provided with one PTS terminal1700mounted in one part of a housing thereof.

In the present embodiment, the PTS terminal1700is connected to a bill validator1022via a communication line (or the slot machine1010).

In addition, based on a predetermined protocol, the PTS terminal1700conducts transmission and reception of data to and from a controller (the later-described controller1100of the slot machine1010) and conducts data communication with the hall management server10, the bonus server11, and the like connected via the network. For example, from the PTS terminal1700to the controller, information pertinent to a credit required to start a game, a stop command to instruct to stop a unit game upon linkage presentation, and the like can be transmitted, and from the gaming controller to the PTS terminal1700, information pertinent to a credit as a game outcome, start notification of the unit game, and termination notification thereof can be transmitted.

In addition, from the PTS terminal1700to the hall management server10, the start notification and the termination notification of the unit game, accounting information including a drawing result or the like, and the like are transmitted. From the bonus server11to the PTS terminal1700(of a predetermined slot machine1010), bonus winning notification is transmitted. Further, between the PTS terminal1700and the membership management server13, information pertinent to credits of members or the like is communicated.

Here, an outline of a game flow in a case of members is as described below. First, member registration is conducted by using the membership card issuing terminal, and at this time, a membership card (IC card) is issued. Thereafter, a player inserts the membership card into the PTS terminal1700of the slot machine1010and inputs cash there. When a bill or bills have been inputted, the bill validator1022identifies a currency kind and a money amount and transmits currency kind data and money amount data as an identification result to the PTS terminal1700. The PTS terminal1700calculates a credit for a game from the currency kind data and the money amount data and transmits the calculated credit to the controller.

Based on the credit transmitted from the PTS terminal1700, the controller executes the game. A credit in accordance with a game outcome is transmitted from the controller to the PTS terminal1700, calculation for paying-out based on the game outcome is performed on the PTS terminal1700, and a money amount to be paid out to a player is determined. On the PTS terminal1700, the determined money amount is written onto the membership card as it is, and the membership card is ejected. In addition, in accordance with the execution or the like of the game, predetermined points are provided for the membership card.

In a case where a player who is a member plays a game next, the PTS terminal1700reads the inserted membership card and then reads out the money amount stored in the membership card. The read-out money amount is converted to a credit and the converted credit is transmitted to the controller. A credit in accordance with a game outcome is transmitted from the controller to the PTS terminal1700as mentioned above, calculation for paying-out based on the game outcome is performed on the PTS terminal1700, and a money amount to be paid out to a player is determined. At this time, the money amount obtained as the game outcome is added to the money amount of the membership card, thereby updating this.

Further, at this time, the PTS terminal1700transmits an identification code (or a member ID) read out from the membership card and the updated money amount to the membership management server13, and the membership management server13adds the money amount transmitted from the PTS terminal1700to a money amount of a member identified by the above-mentioned identification code and stores said money amount. By conducting this processing, the money amount which the member holds is invariably managed.

Thereafter, if needed, a player who is a member can make settlement at a cashier counter or the like, based on the money amount stored on the membership card. In addition, as in the above-described slot machine1010, in a case where the settlement apparatus1868is included therein, on said slot machine1010, the settlement can be made by using the membership card.

On the other hand, an outline of a game flow in a case where a player is a non-member is as described below. A player inputs cash to the PTS terminal1700of the slot machine1010. When the bill or bills have been inputted, the bill validator1022identifies a currency kind and a money amount and transmits currency kind data and money amount data as an identification result to the PTS terminal1700. The PTS terminal1700calculates a credit for a game from the currency kind data and the money amount data and transmits the calculated credit to the controller.

Based on the credit transmitted from the PTS terminal1700, the controller executes the game. A credit in accordance with a game outcome is transmitted from the controller to the PTS terminal1700, calculation for paying-out based on the game outcome is performed on the PTS terminal1700, and a money amount to be paid out to a player is determined. On the PTS terminal1700, this determined money amount is written onto a new IC card stocked in the slot machine1010, and the IC card is ejected. Here, the non-member gets the IC card for the first time.

Thereafter, if needed, a player who is the non-member can make settlement at a cashier counter or the like based on the money amount stored on the IC card. In addition, as in the above-described slot machine1010, in a case where the settlement apparatus1868is included therein, on said slot machine1010, the settlement can be made by using the IC card.

[Description of Function Flow Diagram]

With reference toFIG. 3, basic functions of a slot machine according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described. As shown inFIG. 3, the slot machine1010is connected to an external control device (for example, a bonus server11) so as to allow data communication, and the external control device is connected to a plurality of other slot machines1010installed in a hall so as to allow data communication.

First, the slot machine1010checks whether or not a BET button has been pressed by a player and subsequently checks whether or not a spin button has been pressed by a player.

Next, when the spin button has been pressed by a player, the slot machine1010extracts random number values for symbol determination and determines symbols to be displayed to a player with respect to a plurality of video reels displayed on a display at the time of stopping scrolling of symbol arrays.

Next, the slot machine1010starts scrolling of the symbol array of each of the video reels and then stops the scrolling such that the determined symbols are displayed to a player.

Next, when the scrolling of each of the video reels has been stopped, the slot machine1010determines whether or not a combination of symbols displayed to a player is a combination related to winning.

Next, when the symbols displayed to a player is the combination related to the winning, the slot machine1010provides a benefit according to the combination for a player. For example, when a combination of symbols related to paying-out of coins has been displayed, the slot machine1010pays out to a player a number of coins corresponding to the combination of symbols.

In addition, on the slot machine1010, in a case where the spin button has been pressed by a player and a unit game has been thereby started and in a case where the unit game has been terminated, in response thereto, a drawing for a bonus game is conducted on the bonus server11. When as an outcome of the drawing for the bonus game, winning has occurred on any of the slot machines1010, the unit game is stopped on the slot machine10and thereafter, linkage presentation is conducted on the PTS terminals1700. Here, the unit game refers to a series of operations conducted from when the acceptance of betting is started to when winning is likely to be established.

On any of the slot machines1010which has won in the bonus game, paying-out is conducted from the bonus server11via the PTS terminal1700. In addition, the bonus server11accumulates, for example, one part of a credit consumed by a player on each of the slot machines1010as a credit, for example, for a progressive bonus and when any of the slot machines1010has won in the bonus game, pays out one part of the progressive bonus to that slot machine1010.

The slot machine1010conducts presentation through displaying of images by a display, outputting of light by a lamp, and outputting of sound by a speaker. The slot machine1010extracts a random number value for the presentation and determines presentation contents based on symbols or the like determined by a drawing.

In addition, upon the drawing for the bonus game, the linkage presentation is conducted over the plurality of gaming machines by display devices, light emitting parts, and speakers of the PTS terminals1700.

[Overall Structure of Slot Machine]

Next, with reference toFIG. 4, an overall structure of a slot machine1010will be described.

On the slot machine1010, as game media, coins, bills, or electronic valuable information corresponding to these are used. In particular, in the present embodiment, credit-related data such as cash data stored in an IC card1500is used.

The slot machine1010includes: a cabinet1011; a top box1012attached on an upper side of the cabinet1011; and a main door1013provided on a front face of the cabinet1011.

On the main door1013, a symbol display device1016which is referred to as a lower image display panel1141is provided. The symbol display device1016is formed of a transparent liquid crystal panel. A screen which the symbol display device1016displays has a display window1150in the central portion thereof. The display window1150is constituted of 20 display blocks1028of 5 columns×4 rows. Four display blocks1028of each of the columns form each of pseudo reels1151to1155and are rotated in response to an operation by a player. The respective pseudo reels1151to1155allow rearrangement of symbols such that the four display blocks1028of each thereof are displayed in a downwardly moving manner while wholly changing a speed, thereby rotating symbols1501displayed in the respective display blocks1028in a longitudinal direction and thereafter, the rotation is stopped.

Here, the “rearrangement” means a state in which after the arrangement of the symbols1501has been released, the symbols1501are arranged again. “Arrangement” means a state in which the symbols1501can be visually confirmed by an external player. The slot machine1010executes the so-called slot game in which based on the state of the arrangement of the symbols1501on the pseudo reels1151to1155which have been rotated and thereafter stopped, a payout in accordance with a predetermined combination is awarded.

It is to be noted that although in the present embodiment, a case where the slot machine1010is the so-called video slot machine is described, on the slot machine1010according to the present invention, the so-called mechanical reels may be substituted for one part of the pseudo reels1151to1155.

Further, on a front face of the symbol display device1016, a touch panel1069is provided, and a player operates the touch panel1069, thereby allowing a variety of instructions to be inputted. An input signal is transmitted from the touch panel1069to a main CPU1071.

On a front face of the top box1012, an upper image display panel1131is provided. The upper image display panel1131is constituted of a liquid crystal panel and configures a display. The upper image display panel1131displays images related to presentation and images showing introduction of contents of games and rules thereof. In addition, on the top box1012, speakers1112and a lamp1111are provided. On the slot machine1010, presentation in a unit game is executed through displaying of images, outputting of sound, and outputting of light.

In addition, above the display window1150, a number-of-credits display part (not shown) is displayed and a current number of credits is displayed therein. Here, “credits” are virtual game media on a game, to be used when a player makes betting. It is to be noted that in the number-of-credits display part, a total number of credits which a player currently has is displayed.

In addition, below the number-of-credits display part, a fraction cash display part (not shown) is displayed. In the fraction cash display part, fraction cash is displayed. The “fraction cash” is cash which is not converted to a credit because an inputted money amount is insufficient.

When the IC card1500is inserted into the later-described PTS terminal1700, a number of credits stored on the IC card is displayed on the number-of-credits display part, and fraction cash stored on the IC card is displayed on the fraction cash display part. It is to be noted that these numerical values are stored on the membership management server13so as to be associated with an identification code of the membership card.

Here, the IC card is, for example, a non-contact IC card and has incorporated thereon an IC (Integrated Circuit) for recording and computing a variety of pieces of data such as credits and enables short-range wireless communication using an RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) technology such as NFC (Near Field Communication), for example. By using the IC card1500, a player can have the credit-related data and further, can freely carry this with him or her among different slot machines. A player inserts the IC card1500into the PTS terminal1700of the slot machine1010and thereby uses the credit-related data (money amount data) stored on the IC card1500, thereby allowing a player to play a game such as a unit game on the slot machine1010.

It is to be noted that it may be made possible for a player to deposit cash such as coins and bills as cash data on the IC card1500by using an apparatus installed in a hall.

In addition, below the lower image display panel1141, the PTS terminal1700is incorporated into the cabinet1011. Further, on right and left sides besides the PTS terminal1700, speakers1112are provided, respectively. On an upper portion of the top box1012, a lamp1111is provided. On the slot machine1010, presentation in a unit game is executed through displaying of images by the upper image display panel1131, outputting of sound by the speakers1112, outputting of light by the lamp1111, and the like.

FIG. 5is a diagram illustrating a PTS terminal1700incorporated into a slot machine1010. The PTS terminal1700uses a data interface which is commonalized for gaming machines to communicate data and can be thereby incorporated into a variety of types of gaming machines manufactured by a variety of makers.

FIG. 6is an enlarged view of the PTS terminal1700shown inFIG. 5. As shown inFIG. 6, the PTS terminal1700has a panel1710, respective parts located on a front face of the panel1710are viewable by a player, and members located on a rear face of the panel1710are housed inside of the cabinet1011of the slot machine1010and are not viewable by a player.

On a right side of the front face of the panel1710, an LCD1719having a touch panel function is provided. The LCD1719displays, for example, information related to members and information for members, and a size of a screen thereof is 6.2 inches (approximately 15.7 cm). In addition, around the LCD1719, an LCD cover1719ais provided. It is to be noted that although in this example, the LCD1719is configured to have the touch panel function, instructions issued by a player may be inputted with other input devices such as a keyboard and a mouse.

In addition, above the LCD1719and the LCD cover1719a, a light emitting plate1720awhich is connected to LEDs and emits light is provided. The light emitting plate1720ais formed of, for example, polycarbonate and is connected to a plurality of (for example, seven) full-color LEDs1721alocated on a rear side of the panel1710and emits light in accordance with light emitting of the full-color LEDs1721a.

Below the LCD1719and the LCD cover1719a, similarly, a light emitting plate170bwhich is connected to LEDs and emits light is provided. The light emitting plate170bis formed of, for example, polycarbonate and is connected to a plurality of (for example, seven) full-color LEDs1721b(not shown) located on the rear side of the panel1710and emits light in accordance with light emitting of the full-color LEDs1721b.

In addition, on a right side of the LCD1719, an image pickup window1712is provided, and a human body detection camera1713(not shown) located inside of the LCD cover1719aor on the rear side of the panel1710shoots an image of a player via this image pickup window1712. The image pickup window1712may be also formed of, for example, a half mirror material which has undergone shield processing such as smoke processing.

In addition, at a position of the LCD cover1719a, which is below the LCD1719and is on a right side, a home button1722is provided. The home button1722is a button to shift a screen displayed on the LCD1719to a predetermined upper level screen.

Further, at a position of the LCD cover1719a, which is on the right side of the LCD1719, a speaker duct1706is provided, and in a position on the rear side of the panel1710, which corresponds to a position of the speaker duct1706, a bass reflex type speaker1707is provided. Similarly, on a left side of the LCD1719, a speaker duct1708is provided, and in a position on the rear side of the panel1710, which corresponds to a position of the speaker duct1708, a bass reflex type speaker1709(not shown) is provided. These speakers are speakers dedicated to the PTS terminal1700and are provided separately from the speakers1112for a slot machine game provided on the slot machine1010. These speakers are capable of realizing linkage presentation and a phone call by voice and of outputting notification sound for notifying a player that an IC card1500is left unremoved. It is to be noted that since the configuration thereof is made such that sound from the speakers passes through the above-described speaker ducts1706and1708and is heard in front thereof (on a player side) in a stereophonic manner, the speakers can be installed on the rear side of the panel1710and as a result, space-saving of the PTS1700(panel face) can be realized.

In addition, at positions of the LCD cover1719a, which are below the LCD1719and are on a left side, a microphone opening1714and a microphone opening1716are provided. In portions corresponding to the microphone opening1714and the microphone opening1716inside of the LCD cover1719a, microphones1715and1717(not shown) are provided, respectively.

In a left lower portion of the front face of the panel1710, a card insertion slot1730which allows an IC card1500to be inserted thereto and removed therefrom is provided. In a card insertion part of the card insertion slot1730, full-color LEDs1731(not shown) are provided, which are lit up in a plurality of colors, thereby allowing the remaining number of IC cards1500stacked in the later-described card stacker1742to be notified. At the card insertion slot1730, an eject button1732is provided, and in the vicinity of the eject button1732, an LED1733(not shown) is provided, which is lit up in red, thereby allowing a position and a way of an ejection operation of the eject button1732to be found.

In addition, in positions on a rear side of the panel1710, which correspond to the card insertion slot1730, a card unit1741and the card stacker1742are provided, and the card insertion slot1730is configured as one part of the card unit1741. In the card stacker1742, approximately 30 IC cards1500can be retained, and when a player who has newly played a unit game makes settlement of credits, an IC card1500retained in the card stacker1742is taken out and ejected to the card insertion slot1730.

For the IC card1500taken in from the card insertion slot1730and retained in the card unit1741, upon the settlement of credits, credit information is updated by NFC or the like, and thereafter, the IC card1500is ejected from the card insertion slot1730. While a player is playing a unit game, the IC card1500is completely housed inside of the card unit1741.

In addition, in a case where upon the settlement of credits, in spite of the IC card1500left unremoved, absence of a player is detected by the human body detection camera or the like, the configuration may also be arranged such that the IC card1500can be retained in the card stacker1742. Thus, for example, even in a case where a player has learned that the remaining number of credits is small and yet has left his or her seat with the IC card1500left unremoved or in a case where a player has simply forgotten to remove the IC card1500and has left his or her seat, it does not occur that the IC card1500is left retained in the card unit1741over a long period of time.

In positions on a left upper side of the front face of the panel1710, a USB terminal1737and an audio terminal1738are provided. The USB terminal1737is configured to allow battery charge or the like by connecting a USB device thereto. In addition, the audio terminal1738is, for example, a four-pole terminal, and a headset is inserted thereto, thereby allowing a phone call with other person to be made with the headphones and the microphones. In addition, the audio terminal1738may be configured to be a two-pole or three-pole terminal, thereby allowing sound to be listened with the headphones.

On the front face of the panel1710and on the left side of the LCD1719, a touch unit1745is provided. The touch unit1745includes an RFID module which can function as a writer to write data through data communication to an IC device including an IC chip (for example, a non-contact IC card, a mobile phone and a smartphone, each of which has a communication function by NFC, and the like) and which can function as a reader to read data through the data communication from said IC device. In addition, in four corners of the front face of the touch unit1745, LEDs1746(not shown) are located, respectively. In addition, besides the touch unit1745or instead of the touch unit1745, an information recording medium reading device for reading information stored in an information recording medium such as a magnetic card may be provided. In this case, instead of the IC card1500, the magnetic card may be a membership card.

As described above, the PTS terminal1700according to the one embodiment of the present invention is formed such that the variety of devices having the microphone function, the camera function, the speaker function, the display function, and the like are integrated into one unit, thus realizing space-saving. This allows avoiding of inconvenience, for example, in that by mounting respectively single parts having the above-mentioned functions, if the LCD is mounted so as to face a player, the speakers cannot be mounted so as to face a player.

[Advantage of Mounting Both of Card Unit and Touch Unit]

In addition, the PTS terminal1700according to the one embodiment of the present invention is configured such that upon inserting an IC card1500into a card insertion slot1730, contents of the IC card1500is read by a card unit1741, and the whole IC card1500is taken in (inside of the PTS terminal1700) and is held thereinside. In addition thereto, a touch unit1745is provided and this allows data communication with another IC card, a mobile phone, and a smartphone.

By employing the above-described configuration of the PTS terminal1700according to the present invention, for example, in a case where while a player who is a member is playing a game on a gaming machine (at this time, a membership card is held in the card unit1741), when some maintenance comes to be required, a staff member touches an IC card for maintenance onto this touch unit1745, thereby enabling a screen for the maintenance to be displayed on an LCD1719of the PTS terminal1700and contents and a history of the maintenance to be transmitted to a server and stored thereon.

In addition, for example, in a case where maintenance for a plurality of gaming machines is simultaneously conducted or maintenance for a large number of gaming machines is continuously conducted, a staff member consecutively touches the card for maintenance onto these touch units1745, thereby allowing operations of displaying the screen for maintenance, registering of contents of maintenance, and the like to be quickly performed.

On the other hand, if the PTS terminal1700is configured such that only the touch unit1745enables access to an IC card or the like, when after a player playing a game by initially touching an IC card1500thereonto has left a gaming machine, another player uses that gaming machine, the gaming machine cannot recognize switching of a player. Also in order to solve such inconvenience, the card unit1741which holds the IC card1500during a game is required. For example, if after a player playing a game by initially touching an IC card1500thereonto has left a gaming machine, another player plays a game on that gaming machine by inputting bills (without using any IC card) and makes settlement, credit-related data is stored on the IC card1500of the initial player.

[Configuration of Circuitry Included in Slot Machine]

Next, with reference toFIG. 7, a configuration of circuitry included in a slot machine1010will be described.

A gaming board1050is provided with: a CPU1051, a ROM1052, and a boot ROM1053, which are mutually connected by an internal bus; a card slot1055corresponding to a memory card1054; and an IC socket1057corresponding to a GAL (Generic Array Logic)1056.

The memory card1054includes a non-volatile memory and stores a game program and a game system program. The game program includes a program related to game progression and a program for producing presentation by images and sounds. In addition, the above-mentioned game program includes a symbol determination program. The symbol determination program is a program for determining symbols to be rearranged in display blocks1028.

In addition, the card slot1055is configured such that the memory card1054can be inserted thereinto and removed therefrom and is connected to a motherboard1070by an IDE bus. Accordingly, the memory card1054is pulled out from the card slot1055, another game program is written into the memory card1054, and that memory card1054is inserted into the card slot1055, thereby allowing a kind and contents of a game played on the slot machine1010to be changed.

The GAL1056is a type of a PLD (Programmable Logic Device) having a fixed OR array structure. The GAL1056is provided with a plurality of input ports and output ports, and predetermined input into the input port causes output of the corresponding data from the output port.

In addition, the IC socket1057is configured such that the GAL1056can be inserted thereinto and removed therefrom and is connected to the motherboard1070by a PCI bus. The contents of the game to be played on the slot machine1010can be changed by replacing the memory card1054with another memory card1054having another program written therein or by rewriting the program written into the memory card1054as another program.

The CPU1051, the ROM1052, and the boot ROM1053mutually connected by the internal bus are connected to the motherboard1070by a PCI bus. The PCI bus enables a signal transmission between the motherboard1070and the gaming board1050and power supply from the motherboard1070to the gaming board1050.

The ROM1052stores an authentication program. The boot ROM1053stores a pre-authentication program, a program (boot code) to be used by the CPU1051for activating the pre-authentication program, and the like.

The authentication program is a program (tamper check program) for authenticating the game program and the game system program. The pre-authentication program is a program for authenticating the above-mentioned authentication program. The authentication program and the pre-authentication program are written along a procedure (authentication procedure) for proving that the program to be the subject has not been tampered.

The mother board1070is configured by using a commercially available general-purpose mother board (printed circuit board having basic components of a personal computer mounted thereon) and includes a main CPU1071, a ROM (Read Only Memory)1072, a RAM (Random Access Memory)1073, and a communication interface1082. It is to be noted that the main CPU1071corresponds to a controller1100of the slot machine1010.

The ROM1072includes a memory device such as a flash memory and stores a program such as BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) to be executed by the main CPU1071and permanent data. When the BIOS is executed by the main CPU1071, processing for initializing predetermined peripheral devices is conducted; and further, through the gaming board1050, processing of loading the game program and the game system program stored in the memory card1054is started. It is to be noted that in the present invention, the ROM1072may be a ROM in which contents are rewritable or a ROM in which contents are un-rewritable.

The RAM1073stores data and programs such as the symbol determination program which are used in operation of the main CPU1071. For example, when the processing of loading the above-mentioned game program, game system program, or authentication program is conducted, the RAM1073can store the program. The RAM1073is provided with working areas used for operations in execution of these programs. Examples of the areas include: an area that stores counters for managing the number of games, the number of BETs, the number of payout, the number of credits, and the like; and an area that stores symbols (code numbers) determined by a drawing.

The communication interface1082is to control transmission and reception of data with the PTS terminal1700. In addition, the motherboard1070is connected with the later-described door PCB (Printed Circuit Board)1090and a main body PCB1110by respective USBs. The motherboard1070is also connected with a power supply unit1081.

When power is supplied from the power supply unit1081to the motherboard1070, the main CPU1071of the motherboard1070is activated, and then the power is supplied to the gaming board1050through the PCI bus so as to activate the CPU1051.

The door PCB1090and the main PCB1110are connected with input devices such as switches and sensors and peripheral devices, the operations of which are controlled by the main CPU1071.

The door PCB1090is connected with a control panel1030, a reverter1091, a coin counter1092C, and a cold cathode tube1093.

The control panel1030is provided with a spin switch1031S, a change switch1032S, a CASHOUT switch1033S, a 1-BET switch1034S, and a MAX-BET switch1035S which correspond to the above-mentioned respective buttons. Each of the switches outputs a signal to the main CPU1071upon detection of pressing of the button corresponding thereto by a player.

Inside of a coin entry1036, the reverter1091and the coin counter1092C are provided. The reverter1091identifies whether or not coins inputted into the coin entry1036are authentic and discharges coins other than authentic coins from a coin payout outlet. In addition, the reverter1091detects authentic coins accepted by the coin counter1092C and counts a number of the accepted authentic coins.

The reverter1091operates based on a control signal outputted from the main CPU1071and distributes authentic coins validated by the coin counter1092C into a hopper1113or a cash box (not shown). That is, coins are distributed into the hopper1113when the hopper1113is not filled with coins, while coins are distributed into the cash box when the hopper1113is filled with coins.

The cold cathode tube1093functions as a backlight installed on the rear face sides of the upper image display panel1131and the lower image display panel1141and lights up based on a control signal outputted from the main CPU1071.

The main body PCB1110is connected with the lamp1111, the speaker1112, the hopper1113, a coin detecting part1113S, a touch panel1069, and a graphic board1130. It is to be noted that although in this example, the bill validator1022is connected to the PTS terminal1700, the bill validator1022may be configured to be connected to the slot machine1010.

The lamp1111lights up based on a control signal outputted from the main CPU1071. The speaker1112outputs sound such as BGM based on a control signal outputted from the main CPU1071.

The hopper1113operates based on a control signal outputted from the main CPU1071and pays out the specified number of coins from the coin payout outlet to a coin tray1018. The coin detecting part1113S outputs a signal to the main CPU1071upon detection of coins paid out by the hopper1113.

The touch panel1069detects a position on the lower image display panel1141touched by a player's finger or the like and outputs to the main CPU1071a signal corresponding to the detected position.

The bill validator1022identifies whether or not bills are authentic and accepts authentic bills into the cabinet1011. An amount of the bills inputted into the cabinet1011is converted to a number of coins and a credit which is equivalent to the converted number of coins is added as a credit which a player has.

The graphic board1130controls display of images conducted by each of the respective upper image display panel1131and lower image display panel1141based on a control signal outputted from the main CPU1071. The graphic board1130is provided with a VDP (Video Display Processor) generating image data, a video RAM storing the image data generated by the VDP, and the like. It is to be noted that the image data used in generation of image data by the VDP is included in the game program which has been read from the memory card1054and stored into the RAM1073.

In addition, the graphic board1130is provided with the VDP (Video Display Processor) generating image data based on a control signal outputted from the main CPU1071, the video RAM temporarily storing the image data generated by the VDP, and the like. It is to be noted that the image data used in generation of image data by the VDP is included in the game program that has been read from the memory card1054and stored into the RAM1073.

[Circuitry Configuration of PTS Terminal]

Next, with reference toFIG. 8, a configuration of circuitry which a PTS terminal1700includes will be described.

A PTS controller1750for controlling the PTS terminal1700has a CPU1751, a ROM1752, and a RAM1753.

The CPU1751controls execution of each component of the PTS terminal1700, executes a variety of programs stored in the ROM1752, and performs computation. For example, the CPU1751executes a credit updating program and updates credit-related data stored in an IC card1500.

The ROM1752is constituted of a memory device such as a flash memory and has stored therein permanent data executed by the CPU1751. For example, in the ROM1752, a credit updating program for rewriting credit-related data stored in the IC card1500, a linkage presentation control program executed in response to a request from a bonus server11, and the like can be stored.

The RAM1753temporarily stores data required upon executing the variety of programs stored in the ROM1752.

An external storage device1754is, for example, a storage device such as a hard disk device and stores the programs executed by the CPU1751and data which the programs executed by the CPU1751use.

A server I/F (interface)1755realizes data communication between servers such as a hall management server10, the bonus server11, and the like and the PTS terminal1700. A gaming machine I/F (interface)1756realizes data communication between a controller1100of a slot machine1010and the PTS terminal1700, and for said data communication, a prescribed protocol can be used.

Besides, the PTS terminal1700is connected to a bill validator1022via a bill validator I/F (interface)1757and connected to a settlement apparatus1868via a settlement apparatus I/F (interface)1758and is operable to perform transmission and reception of data as needed.

A USB control part1759determines whether on a USB terminal1737, power is supplied from a power supply unit1760and when a predetermined condition is satisfied, enables the recharging on the USB terminal1737. When the predetermined condition is satisfied, a player connects an electronic device to the USB terminal1737, thereby allowing said electronic device to be recharged.

A light emitting part LED driving part1761, in response to a linkage presentation start request from the bonus server11, performs control such that in order to cause an upper light emitting plate1720aof an LCD1719to emit light, full-color LEDs1721aare lit up at predetermined timing and performs control such that in order to cause a lower light emitting plate170bof the LCD1719to emit light, full-color LEDs1721bare lit up at predetermined timing.

An LCD control part1762performs control to cause the LCD1719to display information pertinent to members, information for the members, and the like and to display data read out from an IC card1500and data inputted by a player. In addition, the LCD1719has a touch panel function and when a touch panel is operated by a player, a predetermined signal is transmitted to the CPU1751.

A home button1722is provided in the vicinity of the LCD1719and is a button for shifting a screen displayed on the LCD1719to a predetermined upper level screen. When the home button1722is pressed by a player, that operation by a player is transmitted to the CPU1751, and the CPU1751transmits an instruction to the LCD control part1762to update the display on the LCD1719in accordance with said operation.

An IC card control part1763performs control for insertion and ejection of an IC card1500, writing of credit data thereto, and the like. The IC card control part1763includes an IC card R/W (reader/writer) control part1763a, an IC card suction and ejection control part1763b, and an LED control part1763c.

The IC card R/W control part1763acontrols a card unit1741to update credit-related data stored in an IC card1500. In addition, when an IC card1500is newly issued, credit-related data corresponding a settled money amount is stored therein. The card unit1741has an antenna part for reading or writing data by NFC or the like from or to an IC card1500.

Although the card unit1741has functions of an IC card reader for reading information stored in an IC card1500and an IC card writer for writing information to an IC card1500, the card unit1741may have a function of either one of the IC card reader and the IC card writer as needed.

The IC card suction and ejection control part1763bperforms control for suction and ejection of an IC card1500. When an IC card1500is inserted by a player into a card insertion slot1730, the IC card suction and ejection control part1763bperforms control to retain the IC card while a player is executing a game. In addition, after the credit-related data has been written in the IC card1500upon the settlement, the IC card suction and ejection control part1763bperforms control to eject that IC card1500. Further, when an eject button1732has been pressed, the IC card suction and ejection control part1763bejects the IC card1500.

In addition, when an IC card1500is newly issued, the IC card suction and ejection control part1763bnewly takes out an IC card1500from a card stacker1742and in order to cause the IC card1500to store credit-related data, supplies the IC card1500to the card unit1741.

The LED control part1763cperforms control to light up LEDs (full-color LEDs1731) provided in the vicinity of the card insertion slot1730of the card unit1741and to light up an LED (red LED1733) provided in the vicinity of the eject button1732.

A touch unit control part1764controls data transmission and reception associated with a touch operation by an IC card1500, a mobile phone, a smartphone, or the like. The touch unit control part1764includes a non-contact R/W (reader/writer) control part1764aand an LED control part1764b.

The non-contact R/W control part1764adetermines whether or not an IC card1500or a mobile phone comes within a predetermined distance close to a touch unit1745(for example, a touch operation has been conducted thereon) and when the IC card1500or the mobile phone has come within the predetermined distance close thereto, the non-contact R/W control part1764aobtains a reading-out result from the touch unit1745. The touch unit1745has an antenna part for performing data transmission and reception to and from the IC card1500or the mobile phone by the NFC or the like.

Although the touch unit1745has functions of an IC card reader for reading information stored in an IC card1500or a mobile phone and an IC card writer for writing information to the IC card1500or the mobile phone, the touch unit1745may have a function of either one thereof as needed.

The LED control part1764bcontrols LEDs1746located in four corners of a front face of the touch unit1745to light up the LEDs1746at predetermined timing.

A DSP1765receives sound data obtained from microphones1715and1717and subjects the sound data to predetermined processing and thereafter, transmits the processed data to the CPU1751. In addition, the DSP1765transmits the received sound data to speakers1707and1709. Further, the DSP1765outputs, to an audio terminal connected with a headset, the received sound to headphones and processes the sound received from the microphones and transmits the processed sound to the CPU1751. It is to be noted that here, the configuration of the outline is described and the description on an A/D converter, a D/A converter, an amplifier, and the like is omitted.

A camera control part1766obtains an image of a player or the like shot by a human body detection camera1713, subjects the image to predetermined image processing as needed, and transmit the processed data to the CPU1751. Said data is transmitted, for example, via the server I/F1755to the hall management server10, a membership management server13, and the like.

[Configuration of Symbol Combination Table]

Next, with reference toFIG. 9, a symbol combination table will be described.

The symbol combination table specifies combinations of drawn symbols related to winning and the numbers of payout. On the slot machine1010, the scrolling of symbol arrays of five pseudo reels1151to1155(a first video reel to a fifth video reel) is stopped, and winning is established when the combination of symbols displayed along a winning line matches one of the combinations of symbols specified by the symbol combination table. According to the winning combination, a benefit such as payout of coins is awarded to a player. It is to be noted that winning is not established (i.e. the game is lost) when the combination of symbols displayed along the winning line does not match any of the combinations of symbols specified by the symbol combination table.

Basically, winning is established when all symbols displayed along the winning line by all of the five pseudo reels1151to1155are of one kind out of kinds of symbols “RED”, “APPLE”, “BLUE 7”, “BELL”, “CHERRY”, “STRAWBERRY”, “PLUM”, and “ORANGE”. However, with respect to the respective kinds of symbols “CHERRY” and “ORANGE”, winning is also established when one or three symbols of either kind are displayed along the winning line by the pseudo reel or the pseudo reels.

For example, when all the symbols displayed along the winning line by all of the five pseudo reels1151to1155are the symbols “BLUE 7”, the winning combination is a “BLUE” combination, and “10” is determined as the number of payout. Based on the determined number of payout, the payout of coins is conducted. The payout of coins is conducted, for example, such that the added credit is stored in the IC card1500and thereafter, the IC card1500is ejected from the card insertion slot1730.

[Contents of Programs Executed on Slot Machine]

Next, with reference toFIG. 10toFIG. 14, programs executed on a slot machine1010will be described.

First, with reference toFIG. 10, a main control process will be described. First, when power is supplied to the slot machine1010, a main CPU1071reads the authenticated game program and game system program from a memory card1054via a gaming board1050and writes the programs into a RAM1073(step (hereinafter, abbreviated to S)11).

Next, the main CPU1071conducts an at-one-game-termination initialization process (S18). For example, data that becomes unnecessary after each game in working areas of the RAM1073, such as the number of BETs and the symbols determined by a drawing, is cleared.

Next, the main CPU1071conducts a coin insertion/start-check process which is described later (S19). In this process, input from a BET switch and a spin switch is checked.

Next, the main CPU1071conducts a symbol drawing process which is described later (S20). In this process, to-be stopped symbols are determined based on random number values for symbol determination.

Next, the main CPU1071conducts a presentation contents determination process (S21). The main CPU1071extracts a random number value for presentation and determines any of the presentation contents from a predetermined plurality of presentation contents by a drawing. The presentation contents can be determined in accordance with a winning combination and a state of a game on a slot machine1010. For example, the configuration can be arranged such that in accordance with winning combinations and the states of the game on the slot machine1010, drawing probabilities related to respective presentation contents are made different from one another.

Next, the main CPU1071conducts a symbol display control process which is described later (S22). In this process, the scrolling of five pseudo reels1151to1155(a first video reel to a fifth video reel) is started, and the to-be stopped symbols determined in the symbol drawing process at S20are stopped in predetermined positions (for example, in a display window1150of a lower image display panel1141). In other words, with respect to each of the reels, four symbols including each of the to-be stopped symbols are displayed in the display window1150. For example, when a to-be-stopped symbol is a symbol associated with a code number “10” and it is to be displayed in an upper region, symbols associated with respective code numbers “11”, “12”, and “13” are to be displayed in an upper central region, a lower central region, and a lower region in the display window1150, respectively.

Next, the main CPU1071conducts a to-be-paid-out number determination process which is described later (S23). In this process, based on a combination of symbols displayed on a winning line L, a to-be-paid-out number is determined and stored in a to-be-paid-out number counter provided in the RAM1073.

Next, the main CPU1071conducts a paying-out process (S24). The main CPU1071adds the value stored in the to-be-paid-out number counter to a value stored in a number-of-credits counter provided in the RAM1073. Here, for example, when a player presses a CASHOUT button, a CASHOUT switch1033S which has detected the pressing thereof outputs a signal to the main CPU1071, and a number of credits stored in an IC card1500held in a card unit1741is updated to a value in the number-of-credits counter.

In addition, driving of a hopper1113may be controlled based on input from the CASHOUT switch1033S, and coins corresponding to the value stored in the to-be-paid-out number counter may be discharged to a coin tray1018.

Next, the main CPU1071conducts a game termination notification process (S25). In this process, data indicating that one unit game has been terminated (together with an identification code or the like of an IC card1500in a case where an IC card1500or the like has been inserted and a player can be thereby identified) is transmitted to the PTS terminal1700. The PTS terminal1700transmits this data to a hall management server10, and in response thereto, a bonus server11conducts a drawing for a bonus game. After finishing the processing at S25, the main CPU1071returns to the processing at S18and the unit game is repeated.

Next, with reference toFIG. 11, a coin insertion/start-check process will be described. First, a main CPU1071determines whether or not insertion of a coin has been detected by a coin counter1092C (S41). When determining that the insertion of a coin has been detected, the main CPU71makes an addition to a number-of-credits counter (S42). Furthermore, in addition to the insertion of a coin, the main CPU71determines whether or not insertion of a bill has been detected by a bill validator1022, and when determining that the insertion of a bill has been detected, the main CPU71adds a value corresponding to the bill to the number-of-credits counter.

After the processing at S42or when determining at S41that the insertion of the coin or the like has not been detected, the main CPU1071determines whether or not a value stored in the number-of-credits counter is zero (S43). When the main CPU71determines that the value stored in the number-of-credits counter is not zero, the main CPU71permits operation acceptance of a BET button (S44).

Next, the main CPU1071determines whether or not operation of any of the BET buttons has been detected (S45). When the pressing of any BET button by a player has been detected by a BET switch, the main CPU1071performs addition to a number-of-BETs counter provided in the RAM1073and subtraction from the number-of-credits counter based on the kind of the BET button (S46).

Next, the main CPU1071determines whether or not a value stored in the number-of-BETs counter is at its maximum (S47). When the main CPU1071determines that the value stored in the number-of-BETs counter is at its maximum, the main CPU1071prohibits updating of the value stored in the number-of-BETs counter (S48). After S48or when determining at S47that the value stored in the number-of-BETs counter is not at its maximum, the main CPU71permits operation acceptance of a spin button (S49).

After S49or when determining at S45that the operation of any of the BET buttons has not been detected, or when determining at S43that the value stored in the number-of-credits counter is zero, the main CPU1071determines whether or not operation of the spin button has been detected (S50). When the main CPU1071determines that the operation of the spin button has not been detected, the main CPU1071shifts the processing to S41.

When the main CPU1071determines that the operation of the spin button has been detected, the main CPU1071conducts a progressive bonus process. In this process, one part of the bet credit is paid out via a PTS terminal1700to a bonus server11, for example, as a credit accumulated for a progressive bonus (S51).

Next, the main CPU1071conducts a game start notification process (S52). In this process, data indicating that one unit game is started (together with an identification code or the like of an IC card1500in a case where an IC card1500or the like has been inserted and a player can be thereby identified) is transmitted to the PTS terminal1700. The PTS terminal1700transmits this data to a hall management server10, and in response thereto, a bonus server11conducts a drawing for a bonus game. After the processing at S52has been conducted, the coin insertion/start-check process is completed.

Next, with reference toFIG. 12, a symbol drawing process will be described. First, the main CPU1071extracts random number values for symbol determination (S111). Next, the main CPU1071determines to-be stopped symbols for five pseudo reels1151to1155(a first video reel to a fifth video reel) by drawings (S112). The main CPU1071conducts a drawing for each of the video reels and determines any of 22 symbols (with code numbers “00” to “21”) as to-be stopped symbols. At this time, each of the 22 symbols is determined at an equal probability (i.e. 1/22).

Next, the main CPU1071stores the determined to-be stopped symbols for the respective video reels in a symbol storage region provided in the RAM1073(S113). Next, the main CPU1071references a symbol combination table (FIG. 9) and determines a winning combination based on the symbol storage region (S114). The main CPU1071determines whether or not the combination of symbols to be displayed along a winning line by the respective video reels matches any of combinations of symbols specified by the symbol combination table and determines the winning combination. After the process has been conducted, the symbol drawing process is completed.

Next, with reference toFIG. 13, a symbol display control process will be described. First, a main CPU1071starts the scrolling of symbol arrays of respective video reels displayed in a display window1150of a lower image display panel1141(S131). Next, the main CPU1071stops the scrolling of the symbol arrays of the respective video reels based on the above-mentioned symbol storage region (S132). After the process has been conducted, the symbol display control process is completed.

It is to be noted that in accordance with timing of starting and stopping of the scrolling of the symbol arrays in the symbol display control process or other timing, the presentation determined in the presentation contents determination process (FIG. 10) is executed. For example, a moving image and a still image are displayed on an upper image display panel1131of the slot machine1010, in synchronization therewith, sound is outputted from speakers1112, and a lamp1111is lit up, thereby allowing said presentation to be executed.

Next, with reference toFIG. 14, a to-be-paid-out number determination process will be described. First, a main CPU1071determines a to-be-paid-out number corresponding to a winning combination (S151). For example, when the winning combination is a combination of symbols “BELL”, the main CPU1071determines “8” as the to-be-paid-out number (refer toFIG. 9). It is to be noted that the main CPU1071determines “0” as the to-be-paid-out number in a case where a game is lost. Next, the main CPU1071stores the determined to-be-paid-out number in a to-be-paid-out number counter (S152). After the process has been conducted, the to-be-paid-out number determination process is completed.

It is to be noted that winning has occurred in a bonus game drawing by a bonus server11, linkage presentation by PTS terminals1700is conducted over a plurality of slot machines1010including the slot machine1010on which the winning has occurred; in conjunction therewith, a bonus is paid out by a bonus server11; and the bonus is added to, for example, the to-be-paid-out number counter.

[Power Supply Control on USB Terminal]

Next, with reference to a flowchart shown inFIG. 15, a USB control process on a USB control part1759of a PTS terminal1700shown inFIG. 8will be described.

The PTS terminal1700is provided with a USB terminal1737on a front face of a panel1710. When a player connects an electronic device such as a mobile phone and a smartphone to the USB terminal (via a USB cable or the like), said device can be recharged under a predetermined condition.

In the USB control process shown inFIG. 15, first, power is supplied to the PTS terminal1700and thereafter, power supply from a power supply unit1760to the USB terminal1737is interrupted (S241). In this state, even when the electronic device is connected to the USB terminal1737, recharging is not made. It is to be noted that here, conducting data communication between the electronic device and the PTS terminal1700is permitted as needed.

Next, it is determined whether or not an IC card1500(that is, a membership card or an IC card of a non-member) is held by a card unit1741(S242). This is to determine whether or not a player has inserted an IC card into a card insertion slot1730and is playing a game.

When no IC card1500is held by the card unit1741(NO at S242), the processing is returned to S242and this determination is repeated. When the IC card1500is held by the card unit1741(YES at S242), it is determined whether or not a player who is currently playing is a member (S243). This processing is to determine whether a holder of the IC card1500is a member by accessing a membership management server13based on an identification code of the IC card1500held by the card unit1741. In addition, when membership authentication has already been conducted on the PTS terminal1700and a flag indicating a result of the authentication is stored in a RAM1753or an external storage device1754, this determination may be conducted by referencing this flag. In the membership authentication, determination on a password inputted by a player may be made.

When a player who is playing is not a member, (NO at S243), the processing is returned to S242and the determination on whether or not an IC card1500is held by the card unit1741is repeated. When a player is a member (YES at S243), control is performed so as to allow the power to be supplied from the power supply unit1760to the electronic device connected to the USB terminal (S244). The above-described control process can also be conducted, for example, after checking that the electronic device has been connected to the USB terminal.

Next, it is determined again whether or not the IC card1500is held by the card unit1741(S245). When the IC card1500is held by the card unit1741(YES at S245), the processing is returned to S245and this determination is repeated. This process allows the recharging on the USB terminal to be sustained while a player has inserted the IC card1500to the card insertion slot1730and is playing a game.

When no IC card1500is held by the card unit1741(NO at S245), the processing is returned to S241and the power supply to the USB terminal1737is interrupted. By conducting this process, when a player has terminated a game and ejected the IC card1500, the power supply to the USB terminal is interrupted and the recharging is discontinued.

[Functionality of Home Button of PTS Terminal]

Next, with reference toFIG. 16andFIG. 17, functionality of a home button1722of a PTS terminal1700will be described. In this example, the home button1722is a button physically provided on an LCD cover1719aof the PTS terminal1700, located at a position which is below an LCD1719and is on a right side (as shown inFIG. 6). A player presses this home button1722, thereby shifting a screen displayed on the LCD1719to a predetermined upper level screen.

FIG. 16Ashows a menu screen30for a member displayed on the LCD1719of the PTS terminal1700after a player has inserted a membership card into a card insertion slot1730of the PTS terminal1700and has logged in as a member. Since as described above, the LCD1719is a display device having a small size of 6.2 inches, it is difficult to concurrently display many pieces of information.

In the menu screen30shown inFIG. 16A, an advertisement display part31, a member name display part32, and a service menu display part33are displayed. In this example, in the service menu display part33, two service menus are concurrently displayed by two scroll displays. In the scroll display on a left side, a button of “HELP” service (help display service for displaying operation methods and the like of the PTS terminal1700and a slot machine1010) is displayed, and in the scroll display on a right side, a button of a “FRIENDS” service (friend registration and friend search service) is displayed. In each of the scroll displays, an upper triangular display or a lower triangular display is touched, thereby displaying a button of other service menu.

FIG. 16Bshows a state in which the button of the other service menu, that is, “restaurant reservation” service is displayed by touching the lower triangular display in the scroll display on the right side in the menu screen30shown inFIG. 16A. When a player touches the button of the “restaurant reservation” service here, the display in the LCD1719is shifted to a top menu34for restaurant reservation shown inFIG. 16C.

As described above, on the PTS terminal1700, a variety of service menus can be provided. For example, in addition to the above-mentioned restaurant reservation service, service for a floor guide, hotel reservation, point games, watching movies, a VoIP phone call (phone call between players), and text chatting among players is provided by said service menu. In addition, service for a reward, a drink order, present purchasing, and the like which use a credit in a membership card is also provided. [0186] The above mentioned respective service menus and a provision system of said service are realized, for example, such that HTML data, images, and the like are interpreted and displayed by a Web browser executed on the PTS terminal1700. In this case, a hall management server10or the like functions as a WEB server and in response to a request by the Web browser of the PTS terminal1700, transmits necessary data to the PTS terminal1700.

FIG. 16Cshows the top menu34for the restaurant reservation, and a title display part34a, a search button display part35, a ranking button display part36, a feature button display part37, and a “return” button display part38are displayed therein. When a player touches any of the search button display part35, the ranking button display part36, and the feature button display part37, a lower level screen corresponding thereto is displayed. The lower level screen is described later with reference toFIG. 17. In addition, when a player touches the “return” button display part38, a CPU1751detects a position of the touch operation and shifts the display in the LCD1719to the menu screen30shown inFIG. 16B.

FIG. 17is a diagram exemplifying screen shifting (mainly, screen shifting from the upper level screen to the lower level screen) in a case where each of the search button display part35, the ranking button display part36, and the feature button display part37is touched.

When in the top menu34for the restaurant reservation shown inFIG. 16C, the search button display part35is touched, a screen display in the LCD1719is shifted to a search condition input screen35a(contents of display in details are omitted, and hereinafter, the same is applied to the other screens shown inFIG. 17). When a search condition is inputted there and a displayed search button is touched, the CPU1751detects a position of the touch operation and the screen display is shifted to a search result display screen35bwhich list-displays a result of the search.

Here, when a narrowing-down condition is inputted and a narrowing-down button is touched, a narrowing-down search is conducted and a search result display screen35bwhich list-displays a result thereof is displayed. When in the search result display screen35b, a display portion of a desired restaurant is touched and selected, the screen display is shifted to a restaurant display screen38awhich displays information pertinent to the selected restaurant.

When in the restaurant display screen38a, a detail display button which displays detailed information pertinent to the restaurant is touched, a restaurant detail display screen38bis displayed, and when a word-of-mouth display button which displays word-of-mouth information is touched, a word-of-mouth display screen38cis displayed.

In addition, when a reservation button displayed in the restaurant display screen38ais touched, a reservation button displayed in the restaurant detail display screen38bis touched, or a reservation button displayed in the word-of-mouth display screen38cis touched, a reservation input screen38dis displayed, and when reservation input is made there and a determination button is touched, the reservation of that restaurant is completed and a confirmation screen38eis displayed.

Here, when a display portion of a desired restaurant is touched and selected, the screen display is shifted to the restaurant display screen38awhich displays information pertinent to the selected restaurant. The subsequent screen shifts are the same as those in the case where the search button display part35is touched.

In addition, when in the top menu34for the restaurant reservation shown inFIG. 16C, the feature button display part37is touched, the screen display in the LCD1719is shifted to a feature article selection screen37a, and when a title of the displayed feature article is touched there, the screen display is shifted a feature display screen37bwhich displays a feature article of the selected title.

Here, when a display portion of a desired restaurant is touched and selected, the screen display is shifted to the restaurant display screen38awhich displays information pertinent to the selected restaurant. The subsequent screen shifts are the same as those in the case where the search button display part35is touched.

The home button1722is respectively pressed in the state in which each of the screens displayed in each of the screen shifts from the upper level screen to the lower level screen, related to the “restaurant reservation” service shown inFIG. 17, is displayed in the LCD1719, the screen display is jumped to the top menu34(that is, the upper level screen) for the restaurant reservation shown inFIG. 16Cwithout any conditions, shifting the image display in the LCD1719(see dotted arrows inFIG. 17).

It is to be noted that the screen shifts shown inFIG. 17are merely examples, and screen shifts having larger number of levels (or smaller number of levels) can be configured and service is provided by various screen shifts for other service.

In addition, in this example, as shown inFIG. 16andFIG. 17, a player presses the home button1722, thereby allowing the display screen to return to the predetermined upper level screen, that is, the top menu of the service related to the screen displayed at this point in time even when a player is displaying any display screen. In addition, the home button1722also enables the display screen to jump to other predetermined upper level screen. For example, it is made possible to shift the display screen to the screen in the display state shown inFIG. 16Aeven when the screen for any of the service is displayed and to shift the display screen to the screen which is one level below the top menu (in this example, the search condition input screen35a, the ranking genre selection screen36a, the feature article selection screen37a, or the like), in accordance with the displayed screen.

As described above, since the home button1722enables the display screen to jump to the predetermined screen, it is not required to arrange a button display part (icon) for returning each of the display screens to said predetermined screen on the screen of the LCD1719. In a case where the button display part to be touched on the screen is arranged, in view of operability and visibility, it is required for the button display part to be of a size of a certain degree. Displaying this button on the small LCD as described above exerts an overload on a display area, thereby resulting in a reduction in an amount of information which can be displayed.

In the PTS terminal1700according to the present invention, the home button1722is physically provided, thereby allowing the overload exerted on the display area of the LCD1719to be avoided and as a result, enabling a larger amount of information to be displayed on the LCD1719.

In addition, since upon pressing the home button1722, the screen display is jumped to the predetermined screen, also when a player hesitates over the operation of the service menu or wants to redo the operation thereof, it is made possible to guide a player to the predetermined screen at once through the simple operation.

REFERENCE SIGNS LIST