Multi-station game machine

A multi-station game machine, includes a plurality of reels, each reel having a plurality of symbols, and the reels spinning horizontally around a vertical axis. The reels are arranged coaxially in the vertical direction. Each of the reels has a circumferential length which enables at least two players to play a game on the game machine simultaneously.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates to a multi-station game machine which enables a plurality of players to play games together and in which symbols are moved horizontally.

A game machine100shown inFIG. 11is a game machine in which one player plays a game. At the time of playing a game, a player initially inserts a plurality of tokens to be used for betting purpose, via a token insert slot101.

The player presses any one of credit bet buttons102a,102b, and102c, to thereby bet tokens on a desired one of payout lines p1, p2, p3, p4, and p5along which symbols would constitute a certain winning combination.

Then, the player presses a start lever103, to thereby start spinning symbol reels111,112, and113, each having a predetermined number of symbols121e. . . ,122e. . . , and123e. . . drawn on peripheral faces thereof.

After having continued spinning for a while, the symbol reels111,112, and113are automatically, sequentially stopped.

If, after the reels are stopped, a winning combination is constituted by a symbol on the symbol reel111, a symbol on the symbol reel112, and a symbol on the symbol reel113that are aligned along a payout line on which the player bets tokens beforehand, a certain number of tokens assigned to the symbols are paid to the player via a token payout hole104.

As mentioned above, the game machine100is a game machine on which a single player plays games, but fails to enable a plurality of players to play games simultaneously.

A predetermined number of symbols121e. . . ,122e. . . , and123e. . . are drawn on peripheral faces of the respective symbol reels111,112, and113. As shown inFIG. 11, only three symbols appear on each of the symbol reels. Symbols other than these cannot be used for a combination game on the game machine100because they are concealed in the game machine100. For this reason, the number of programmable payout lines are limited.

Accordingly, a person who is skilled in the art is expected to seek a manner of effectively utilize unused symbols and increase the number of payout lines.

In addition, when, during the course of a combination game, two of symbols that would constitute a certain big winning combination is already aligned with a payout line on which the player already bets tokens, sound effects are provided and lamps (not shown) are blinked in association with spinning of the final symbol reel. However, the effect of such presentation is languid and insufficient for inciting the gambling spirit and augmenting interest in games.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a multi-station game machine which enables a plurality of players to enjoy playing games, effective utilization of symbols to be displayed, and augmentation of interest in games, and which is rich in terms of entertainment characteristic.

In order to achieve the above object, according to the present invention, there is provided a multi-station game machine comprising:

a plurality of reels, each reel having a plurality of symbols, and the reels spinning horizontally around a vertical axis,

wherein the reels are arranged coaxially in the vertical direction; and

wherein each of the reels has a circumferential length which enables at least two players to play a game on the game machine simultaneously.

In the above configuration, a plurality of players can enjoy playing games simultaneously.

According to the present invention, there is also provided a multi-station game machine, comprising;

a plurality of displays, each display displaying a symbol array, the symbol array having a plurality of symbols arranged in a first direction, and the symbols of each symbol array moving in the first direction,

wherein the respective symbol arrays displayed on the respective displays are arranged in parallel each other; and

wherein each display has a circumferential length which enables at least two players to play a game simultaneously.

In the above configuration, a plurality of players can enjoy playing games simultaneously.

Preferably, the multi-station game machine further comprises;

a plurality of speakers, each speaker being disposed around the reels; and

a speaker controller, which controls emission of sound from the speakers and muting of the speakers.

In the above configuration, the speakers provided around a plurality of symbol reels emit sound or become muted, thereby enabling attractive presentation of games.

Preferably, the multi-station game machine further comprises:

a plurality of speakers, each speaker being disposed around the displays; and

a speaker controller, which controls emission of sound from the speakers and muting of the speakers.

In the above configuration, speakers provided around a plurality of display sections emit sound or become muted, thereby enabling attractive presentation of games.

a plurality of lamps, each lamp being disposed around the reels; and

a lamp controller, which controls illumination and extinction of the plurality of lamps.

In the above configuration, lamps disposed around the reels are illuminated and extinguished, thereby enabling attractive presentation of games.

a plurality of lamps, each lamp being disposed around the displays; and

a lamp controller, which controls illumination and extinction of the plurality of lamps.

In the above configuration, the lamps disposed around symbol reels are illuminated and extinguished, thereby enabling attractive presentation of games.

Preferably, the multi-station game machine comprises a plurality of operating units, by which a plurality of players bet a game value on a payout line of the reels, and the payout line includes a shared payout line which is betted by the adjacent operating units.

Preferably, the multi-station game machine, further comprises a plurality of operating units, by which a plurality of players bet a game value on a payout line on the displays. The payout line includes a shared payout line which is betted by the adjacent operating units.

In the above configurations, the payout line include the shared payout line to be shared between and used by adjacent players. Hence, use of the shared payout line enables adjacent players to share the pleasure stemming from achievement of a win.

In order to avoid experiencing regret, which would otherwise be raised when a player does not bet any game values on a shared payout line, the player is motivated to bet game values on as many payout lines as possible, thereby fully enjoying a game.

Accordingly, there can be embodied a multi-station game machine which enables a large number of players to enjoy playing games together, effective utilization of symbols to be displayed, and augmentation of interest in a game.

Preferably, the plurality of symbols of the reels define a plurality of game areas on which the game is performed simultaneously.

The respective symbol arrays displayed on the respective displays define a plurality of game areas on which the game is performed simultaneously.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

An embodiment of a game machine according to the invention will be described hereinbelow by reference to the drawings.

As shown inFIG. 1, and inFIG. 2, which is a conceptual rendering, a multi-station game machine1is a game machine on which a plurality of players enjoy playing combination games (first games), by using any of stations s1, s2, s3, s4, . . . sn.

At the time of a combination game, symbol reels2,3, and4spin horizontally (in the direction “s” of arrow shown inFIG. 2) around a vertical shaft in a concentric manner while displaying a plurality of symbols21. . . , a plurality of symbols31. . . , and a plurality of symbols41. . . on respective peripheral faces of the symbol reels. While the symbol reels2,3, and4are spinning, the players select desired payout lines from payout lines ht11, ht12, ht13. . . (seeFIG. 6, which will be described later) provided at the stations (any of s1, s2, . . . sn) occupied by the players, and bet previously-inserted game values, (e.g., tokens, coins, paper currency, or some form of credit indicator, such as a credit card) on the thus-selected payout lines.

After the players bet coins or tokens on the payout lines, the symbol reels2,3, and4are sequentially stopped. Symbols that would constitute a certain winning combination are aligned with the respective payout lines ht11, ht12, ht13. . . . When the payout lines ht11, ht12, ht13, . . . along which the symbols are successfully aligned coincide with the payout lines on which the players bet coins or tokens, a predetermined number of coins or tokens assigned to the symbols that constitute a predetermined winning combination are paid to the players who are awarded wins.

As shown inFIG. 1, in the multi-station game machine1, the symbol reel2, on whose peripheral face symbols21,22,23. . . are displayed; the symbol reel3, on whose peripheral face symbols31,32,33, . . . are displayed; and the symbol reel4, on whose peripheral face symbols41,42,43, . . . are displayed are supported in a concentric manner so as to be rotatable around the vertical center. The multi-station game machine1is installed upright such that a protective glass1gfor protecting the outside of peripheral faces of the symbol reels2,3, and4assumes a cylindrical shape.

A predetermined number of speakers (game speakers) p1for emitting sound effects for games are disposed in positions elevated from the symbol reels2,3, and4. Further, a predetermined number of game lamps u1. . . for emitting illumination effects for game are provided in positions lower than the symbol reels2,3, and4so as to surround an exterior circumferential wall face.

The outer peripheral section of the multi-station game machine1is divided into stations s1, s2, s4, s4. . . sn, all having identical configurations, to be used by players at the time of playing games. Reference payout lines ht11, ht21, . . . htn1(which will be described later), which are payout lines of one type, are arranged at positions on the protective glass1gso as to correspond to the center positions of respective stations.

Here, the reference payout lines ht11, ht21, . . . htn1are provided as colored translucent glass or plastic rods; e.g., yellow, blue, and green rods arranged on the protective glass1g.

The reference payout lines ht11, ht21, . . . htn1may be embodied by means of imparting a special refraction factor to the protective glass1gsuch that translucent colors; e.g., yellow, blue, and green, may be isolated in the form of rods by means of illumination.

Operating tables t1, t2, t3, t4, . . . tn having control buttons b1, b2, b3, b4, . . . bn provided thereon are disposed, in a sloped manner, at positions on the respective stations s1, s2, s3, s4, . . . sn where the players can readily operate the buttons. Payout receivers m1, m2, m3, m4, . . . mn for storing coins or tokens ejected from hoppers (not shown) by way of payout holes k1, k2, k3, k4, . . . , tn are disposed at positions lower than the respective operating tables t1, t2, t3, t4, . . . so as to project forward from the wall face.

A symbol sheet on which the symbols21, . . . are drawn and which is formed from polycarbonate or the like is affixed onto the peripheral face of the symbol reel2; a symbol sheet on which the symbols31, . . . are drawn and which is formed from polycarbonate or the like is affixed onto the peripheral face of the symbol reel3; and a symbol sheet on which the symbols41, . . . are drawn and which is formed from polycarbonate or the like is affixed onto the peripheral face of the symbol reel4. Thus, the symbol reels2,3, and4display the symbols21. . . , the symbols31. . . , and the symbols41. . . to the players.

The symbols21. . . , the symbols31. . . , and the symbols41. . . are classified into symbols that would constitute a big winning combination; e.g., 7; symbols that would constitute a medium winning combination; symbols that would constitute a small winning combination; symbols that would constitute a bonus game; and remaining general symbols.

Outer shells of the respective symbol reels2,3, and4are formed from drums (not shown). With a view toward reducing the weight and inertia of the drums, lightweight material, such as an aluminum alloy or synthetic resin, is selected, thereby attempting weight reduction through, for example, a reduction in the thickness of constituent sections.

The spinning reels2,3, and4are rotated, by means of direct drive by stepping motors (not shown) which have good compatibility with a digital control system and rotate through only a preset angle. Position sensors (not shown) are adopted for stopping the spinning reels at predetermined positions, thereby effecting position control.

Position sensors that are employed are selected from optical sensors, such as photodiodes or phototransistors, or magnetic sensors utilizing electromagnetic induction, as required.

Needless to say, a transmission mechanism which employs transmission belts and gear mechanisms, as required, may be adopted for effecting rotation of the respective symbol reels2,3, and4.

In order to enable players to easily view the symbols21. . . , the symbols31. . . , and the symbols41. . . , internal lamps (not shown) are provided within the respective symbol reels2,3, and4for illuminating symbols on the peripheral faces of the spinning reels from the inside thereof.

Incidentally, the symbols21. . . , the symbols31. . . , and the symbols41. . . are also illuminated from the outside of the spinning reels by external lamps (not shown).

In the embodiment, the symbol reels2,3, and4are constituted of mechanical reels having true-to-life characteristics, thereby displaying the symbols21. . . , the symbols31. . . , and the symbols41. . . . Here, the symbol reels may be constituted of symbol display devices for displaying the symbols of the plurality of symbol reels by images, such as an LCD (liquid-crystal display), a CRT (cathode-ray tube), or a DLP (digital light processing) projector using an image display device DMD (digital micro-mirror device).

Specifically, there may also be employed a symbol display system in which display sections (corresponding to the peripheral faces of the symbol reels2,3, and4) are vertically stacked side by side into a plurality of layers, each section sequentially displaying images of a plurality of symbols in a circulatory manner by horizontally moving in the form of a row of predetermined sequence.

In the multi-station game machine1having the symbol display system for displaying images of the symbols, the outer circumferential face of the game machine1may assume an arbitrary shape other than the shape of a cylindrical face, such as an elliptic cylindrical shape.

Since the operating table t1of the station s1is identical in construction with the operating tables t2, . . . tn of the other stations s2, s3, s4, . . . sn, an explanation is given of only the operating table t1.

The operating table t1is constituted of an operation display panel (individual display section) h1; a control button section b1consisting of a plurality of types of control buttons; and a coin insert slot i1into which coins or tokens are inserted.

The operation display panel h1is constructed from a CRT display or an LCD and is used for displaying a bet time, an indication to be used when the player bets coins or tokens on the payout lines ht1, . . . during a period of bet time, the end of a bet time, and the symbols21,31,41, . . . of the symbol reels2,3,4which are to spin after the bet time; and is used by the player for ascertaining the history of game results and the number of remaining coins or tokens.

Control buttons of the control button section1bincludes a line selection button to be used for selecting payout lines from the payout lines ht1. . . and making the selected payout line valid; a bet button to be used for betting a coin or token one by one on the payout lines ht1. . . that are selected and made valid; a maximum bet button to be used for betting a maximum number of coins or tokens on the payout lines ht1. . . that are selected and made valid; a remaining credit check button; a credit payoff button; an employee call button, and other buttons as required. Predetermined processing is performed by a player pressing any of the buttons.

So long as a touch panel method is employed for the operation display panel h1, the panel may play the role of press buttons.

As shown inFIG. 3, when the multi-station game machine1of the foregoing configuration has eight stations s1, s2, . . . S8to be used by respective players, eight players can simultaneously enjoy playing a combination game.

As shown inFIG. 4, when the multi-station game machine1has 16 stations, s1, . . . S16, 16 players can simultaneously enjoy playing a combination game. The number of stations can be selected as, for example,10,12,14, . . . , as required. Players equal in number to the stations can simultaneously enjoy playing a combination game.

For instance, the multi-station game machine1is designed to have eight stations s1through s8such that the symbol reel2has 16 symbols21,22, . . .216provided on a peripheral face thereof; such that the symbol reel3has 16 symbols31,32, . . .316; and such that the symbol reel4has 16 symbols41,42, . . .416. In such a case, the relative positional relationship between the stations and the stop positions of the symbols on the respective symbol reels2,3, and4can be set to that shown inFIG. 5A.

The symbols numbered21,22, . . .216; the symbols numbered31,32, . . .316; and the symbols numbered41,42, . . .416are assigned numbers for convenience of explanation; in practice, specific numbers are not designated.

As can be seen fromFIG. 5, the multi-station game machine1is arranged such that three of the16symbols21, . . .216on the symbol reel2, three of the 16 symbols31, . . .316on the symbol reel3, and three of the symbols41, . . . ,416on the symbol reel4are assigned to the respective stations s1, s2, . . . , s n when the spinning symbol reels2,3, and4are stopped.

More specifically, the symbols216,21, and22on the symbol reel2, the symbols316,31, and32on the symbol reel3, and the symbols416,41, and42on the symbol reel4are stopped at the station s1; the symbols22,23, and24on the symbol reel2, the symbols32,33, and34on the symbol reel3, and the symbols42,43, and44on the symbol reel4are stopped at the station s2; . . . , the symbols214,215, and216on the symbol reel2, the symbols314,315, and316on the symbol reel3, and the symbols414,415, and416on the symbol reel4are stopped at the station s8.

FIG. 6shows an example of the multi-station game machine1in which payout lines ht11, ht12, and ht13are available for the player of the station s1with regard to the symbols on the stationary symbol reels2,3, and4.

The station s8is disposed on the left side of the station s1, and the station s2is disposed on the right side of the station s1.

FIG. 6Ashows the payout lines ht11, ht12, and ht13to be used solely for the station s1.

The payout line ht11is a vertical straight payout line provided at the center of the station s1. In the case of symbols illustrated inFIG. 6A, the payout line ht11is formed by combination of the symbol21on the symbol reel2, the symbol31on the symbol reel3, and the symbol41on the symbol reel4.

The payout line ht12is sloped downward from left to right on a display area of the station s1. In the case of the symbols illustrated inFIG. 6A, the payout line ht12is constituted by combination of the symbol216on the symbol reel2, the symbol31on the symbol reel3, and the symbol42on the symbol reel4.

The payout line ht13is sloped downward from right to left on the display area of the station s1. In the case of the symbols illustrated inFIG. 6A, the payout line ht13is constituted by combination of the symbol22on the symbol reel2, the symbol31on the symbol reel3, and the symbol416on the symbol reel4.

FIG. 6Bshows payout lines ht14, ht16, and ht17to be shared between the stations s1and s8, and payout lines ht15, ht18, and ht19to be shared between the stations s1and s2.

The payout line ht14is a straight, vertical payout line provided on the left side of the display area of the station s1and is also used for the station s8. In the case of the symbols illustrated inFIG. 6B, the payout line ht14is formed by combination of the symbol216on the symbol reel2, the symbol316on the symbol reel3, and the symbol416on the symbol reel4.

The payout line ht16is a sloped payout line provided on the display area of the station s1and is also used for the station s8. In the case of the symbols illustrated inFIG. 6B, the payout line ht16is formed by combination of the symbol215on the symbol reel2, the symbol316on the symbol reel3, and the symbol41on the symbol reel4.

The payout line ht17is a sloped payout line provided on the display area of the station s1and is also used for the station s8. In the case of the symbols illustrated inFIG. 6B, the payout line ht16is formed by combination of the symbol21on the symbol reel2, the symbol316on the symbol reel3, and the symbol415on the symbol reel4.

The payout line ht15is a straight, vertical payout line provided on the right side of the display area of the station s1and is also used for the station s2. In the case of the symbols illustrated inFIG. 6B, the payout line ht15is formed by combination of the symbol22on the symbol reel2, the symbol32on the symbol reel3, and the symbol42on the symbol reel4.

The payout line ht18is a sloped payout line provided on the display area of the station s1and is also used for the station s2. In the case of the symbols illustrated inFIG. 6B, the payout line ht18is formed by combination of the symbol21on the symbol reel2, the symbol32on the symbol reel3, and the symbol43on the symbol reel4.

The payout line ht19is a sloped payout line provided on the display area of the station s1and is also used for the station s2. In the case of the symbols-illustrated inFIG. 6B, the payout line ht19is formed by combination of the symbol23on the symbol reel2, the symbol32on the symbol reel3, and the symbol41on the symbol reel4.

As mentioned previously, the payout lines ht14, ht16, ht17shared between the station s1and the adjacent station s8and the payout lines ht15, ht18, ht19shared between the station s1and the adjacent station s2are particularly designated as shared payout lines.

More specifically, among payout lines, those shared between two adjacent stations are called shared payout lines.

For station s1, the payout lines ht11through ht19, including the shared payout lines, are provided. However, other payout lines, including other shared payout lines, can also be provided.

Payout lines including shared payout lines analogous to those employed in the station s1are used even in stations s2, s3, s4, s5, s6, s7, and s8.

The reference payout lines ht11, ht21, ht31, . . . htn1provided for the respective stations s1, s2, . . . sn are embodied by adoption of center vertical payout lines in the respective stations from among the previously-described payout lines as reference payout lines.

The reference payout lines ht11, ht21, ht31, . . . htn1are not necessarily embodied by the center vertical payout lines of the respective stations. However, adoption of the center vertical payout lines is more preferable, for explicitly representing the respective stations s1, s2, . . . sn.

In the embodiment, the payout lines ht12, ht13, . . . other than the reference payout lines ht11, ht21, ht31, . . . htn1, which are to be offered to respective players, are drawn on the protective glass1g.

A celebratory payout and a shared bonus payout are set as payouts to be provided when a win is achieved at any of the shared payout lines ht14, ht16, ht17, ht15, ht18, and ht19by a winning combination.

In the case of the related game machine, when a winning is achieved as a result of symbols on the symbol reels that would constitute a winning combination which are aligned with a payout line on which the player does not bet coins or tokens, nothing is paid to the player.

In contrast, in the multi-station game machine1, even when a player does not bet any coins or tokens on a shared payout line in advance before start of a game, if another player playing at an adjacent station bets coins or tokens on that shared payout line before initiation of the game, and if a win is achieved on the shared payout line as a result of start of the game, coins or tokens are paid to the player who bets coins or tokens as a reward for achievement of a win. In addition, coins or tokens are also paid to the player who does not bet coins or tokens, as a celebratory payout.

For example, as shown inFIG. 5, a player1who is playing games at the station s1is assumed not to bet any coins or tokens on the shared payout line ht15between the stations s1and s2, which is shown inFIG. 6B, in advance before start of a game.

Provided that a player2playing at the station s2bets coins or tokens on the shared payout line ht15in advance before start of a game, if symbols that constitute a winning combination are aligned along the shared payout line ht15as a result of the spinning symbol reels2,3,4that are stopped after start of a game, to thereby achieve a win, coins or tokens corresponding to a reward for achievement of a win along the shared payout line ht15are paid to the player2. Further, coins or tokens are also paid to the player1who does not bet any coins or tokens on the shared payout line ht15, as a celebratory payout associated with achievement of a win along the shared payout line ht15.

As in the case of the shared payout line ht15, a celebratory payout is also provided even on other shared payout lines.

Next will be described the shared bonus payout. In this example situation, a player bets coins or tokens on a shared payout line in advance before start of a game, and another player playing at an adjacent station also bets coins or tokens on that shared payout line in advance before start of a game. If both player bet coins or tokens on the same shared payout line and if a win is achieved along the shared payout line on which the players bet coins or tokens, after start of a game, coins or tokens corresponding to a reward for achievement of a win on the shared payout line are paid to both players. In addition, a bonus payout is also paid to both players as a shared bonus payout.

For example, as shown inFIG. 5, the player1playing at the station s1is assumed to bet coins or tokens on the payout line ht16, which is shared between the stations s1and s8and is shown inFIG. 6B, in advance before start of a game. The player8playing at the station s8is also assumed to bet coins or tokens on the shared payout line ht16in advance before start of a game.

If the game is started and a win is achieved as a result of symbols that constitute a winning combination that are aligned along the shared payout line ht16after the spinning symbol reels2,3, and4are stopped, a payout corresponding to a reward for achievement of a win is paid to the players1and8. In addition, a bonus payout is paid to the players1and8as a shared bonus payout.

Even on the remaining shared payout lines, a shared bonus payout is paid as in the case of the shared payout line ht16.

As mentioned above, the celebratory payout and the shared bonus payout to be paid to the player1are described as examples of payouts to be paid when a winning combination are established along a shared payout line. Needless to say, under similar conditions, the celebratory payout and the bonus payout are paid to the other players3,4, . . .8in the same manner.

A multi-station game machine1shown inFIG. 7is an example of game machine having stations s1, s2, . . . s8which enable eight players to simultaneously enjoy playing a combination game. In this example, symbols21,22, . . .224are provided on the peripheral face of the symbol reel2; symbols31,32, . . .324are provided on the peripheral face of the symbol reel3; and symbols41,42, . . .424are provided on the peripheral face of the symbol reel4.

As can be seen fromFIG. 7, symbols223,224,21,22,23on the symbol reel2, symbols323,324,31,32,33on the symbol reel3, and symbols423,424,41,42,43on the symbol reel4are stopped on the station s1of the multi-station game machine1; symbols22,23,24,25,26on the symbol reel2, symbols32,33,34,35,36on the symbol reel3, and symbols42,43,44,45,46on the symbol reel4are stopped displayed on the station s2of the multi-station game machine2; . . . , similarly, symbols220,221,222,223,224on the symbol reel2, symbols320,321,322,323,324on the symbol reel3, and symbols420,421,422,423,424on the symbol reel4are stopped on the station s8of the multi-station game machine1.

More specifically, the game machine is set such that five symbols of the symbols21. . . on the symbol reel2, five symbols of the symbols31. . . on the symbol reel3, and five symbols of the symbols41. . . on the symbol reel4are assigned to respective stations s1, s2, . . . s8when the spinning symbol reels2,3,4are stopped.

Even in the multi-station game machine of the embodiment, payout lines including shared payout lines are produced. In addition to a basic payout to be paid for establishment of a winning combination, the celebratory payout and the shared bonus payout are paid for the shared payout lines.

As shown inFIGS. 1 and 8, in the multi-station game machine1, a plurality of speakers p1and a plurality of game lamps1are provided around the symbol reels2,3, and4. In association with rotations of the symbols21. . . on the symbol reel2, the symbols31. . . on the symbol reel3, and the symbols41. . . on the symbol reel4performed during games, game sound effects are emitted from the speakers p1; sound images are caused to go around the game machine; optical game effects are emitted from the game lamps u1; and illuminated light or blinking light is caused to go around the game machine, to thereby enable presentation of a game which provides audiovisual stimulation.

An explanation is now given of revolving of sound images and revolving of illumination light or blinking light. When a winning combination is established by symbols determined by internal random selection or a result of combination of symbols, game sound effects are emitted from the speakers p1, sound images are caused to go around the game machine, optical game effects are emitted from the game lamps u1, and illumination light or blinking light is caused to go around the game machine, as an advance notice of establishment of a winning combination, along with rotation of symbols on the peripheral face of any one of the symbol reels2,3,4which are currently spinning and are to be stopped next.

As establishment of a winning combination which involves emission of the game sound effects and optical game effects, establishment of a big winning combination, establishment of a medium winning combination, establishment of a small winning combination, and establishment of a bonus game is selected, as required, and the thus-selected winning combination is applied.

As establishment of a winning combination other than those set forth, there is selected and applied, as required, establishment of a winning combination involving a payout of predetermined number of bills or predetermined amount of money; e.g., a payout of 50 bills or more, a payout of 100 bills or more, a payout of 1000 bills or more, a payout of 100 dollars or more, or a payout of 1000 dollars or more, or a payout of an arbitrary number of bills or an arbitrary amount of money.

Here, a case where establishment of a big winning combination (involving the maximum payout) is determined by means of internal random selection is now illustrated. As shown inFIG. 8, which is a conceptual rendering of players in the course of playing a game, game sound effects are emitted from the speaker p1located close to a symbol21a(a symbol involving a maximum payout) on the symbol reel2of the spinning symbol reels2,3,4, in a situation where the symbol reel2is to be stopped first and the symbol21awould constitute a big winning combination (hereinafter simply called a “big win symbol21a”), and sound images are caused to go around the game machine. Moreover, optical game effects are emitted from the game lamp u1located close to the big win symbol21a, and illumination light or blinking light goes around the game machine.

After the symbol reel2is stopped, game sound effects are emitted from the speaker p1located close to a symbol31a(a symbol involving a maximum payout) on the symbol reel3of the spinning symbol reels2,3,4, in a situation where the symbol reel3is to be stopped second and the symbol31awould constitute a big winning combination (hereinafter simply called a “big win symbol31a”), and sound images are caused to go around the game machine. Moreover, optical game effects are emitted from the game lamp u1located close to the big win symbol31a, and illumination light or blinking light goes around the game machine.

After the symbol reel3is stopped, game sound effects are emitted from a speaker p1a located close to a symbol41a(a symbol involving a maximum payout) on the symbol reel4of the spinning symbol reels2,3,4, in a situation where the symbol reel4is to be finally stopped and the symbol41awould constitute a big winning combination (hereinafter simply called a “big win symbol41a”), and sound images are caused to go around the game machine. Moreover, optical game effects are emitted from a game lamp u1alocated close to the big win symbol41a, and illumination light or blinking light goes around the game machine.

There may also be adopted, as required, a presentation of changing the sound of or increasing the volume of the game sound effects emitted from the speaker p1alocated close to the big win symbol41aon the symbol reel4to be stopped finally in relation with those emitted for the symbol reels2,3. Thus the game sound effects with reference to the symbol reel4is stopped finally are different from the game sound effects emitted for the symbol reel4from those emitted for the symbol reels2,3.

Similarly, there may also be adopted, as required, a presentation of changing the hue of or increasing the saturation or brightness of the optical game effects emitted from the game lamp u1alocated close to the big win symbol41aon the symbol reel4to be stopped finally in relation with those emitted for the symbol reels2,3. Thus the optical game effects with reference to the symbol reel4are different from the optical game effects emitted for the symbol reel4from those emitted for the symbol reels2,3.

A presentation other than those set forth may also be employed. As shown inFIG. 8, for example, establishment of a big winning combination is assumed to be established by the internal random selection. The big win symbol21aon the symbol reel2are aligned with and stopped at the reference payout line ht21of the station s2. Subsequently, the big win symbol31aon the symbol reel3are aligned with and stopped at the reference payout line ht31of the station s3. Finally, the symbol reel4is spinning in the direction of arrow A. In such a situation, sound effects for establishment of a big winning combination are emitted from the speaker p1alocated close to the big win symbol41ain association with rotation of the big win symbol41aon the symbol reel41. In addition, attractive optical effects for establishment of a big winning combination are emitted from the game lamp u1alocated close to the big win symbol41a, thereby enabling presentation for causing sound images and illumination light or blinking light to go around the game machine.

In this way, when the two big win symbols21a,31aare already aligned with the payout line ht21and the symbol reel4is not stopped for display and is still spinning, sound images for establishment of a big winning combination and optical effects or blinking light for establishment of a big winning combination are caused to go around the game machine in association with the spinning action of the big win symbol41aon the symbol reel4. Thus, the interest of the player who is expected to benefit from a big winning combination is enhanced more and more.

In the example, when establishment of a big winning combination is determined by the internal random selection, sound effects for establishment of a big winning combination are emitted from the speaker p1alocated close to the big win symbol41ain association with spinning action of the big win symbol41aon the symbol reel4. Attractive optical effects for establishment of a big winning combination are emitted from the game lamp u1alocated close to the big win symbol41ain association with spinning action of the big win symbol41aon the symbol reel4. Needless to say, the foregoing configuration can also be applied to establishment of a winning combination other than a big winning combination; e.g., establishment of a medium winning combination, establishment of a small winning combination, establishment of a bonus game (i.e., a second game), or establishment of a winning combination involving a payout higher than a predetermined payout.

In relation to presentation of the game sound effects and optical game effects, effects to be emitted may be limited to only game sound effects or only optical game effects. Alternatively, both the game sound effects and the optical game effects may be emitted in conjunction with each other.

Control configuration of the multi-station game machine1will now be described by reference toFIG. 9.

Control of the multi-station game machine1is configured such that a center unit10controlling the overall game machine in accordance with a stored control program is connected with station units y1, y2, . . . , yn which are disposed so as to correspond to the respective stations s1, s2, s3, s4, . . . sn and control sections of the respective stations s1, s2, s3, s4, . . . sn, the control sections exchanging control signals with the center unit10, transmitting output data, and receiving input data, by way of a system bus20of 16-bit or 32-bit width.

The center unit10is configured by means of connecting together, by way of the system bus20, a CPU (central processing unit) (also called a game speaker controller and a game lamp controller)11which serves as a central processing unit; ROM (read-only memory)12, which is non-volatile memory; RAM (random-access memory)13, which is volatile memory; a hard disk drive14having a large storage capacity; a CD-ROM drive16connected to the center unit10by way of an ATAPI (advanced technology attachment packet interface) interface circuit15; and interface circuits17,18,19,21.

The ROM12has control data or a table to be used for controlling rotation and stoppage of the symbol reels2,3, and4through use of a timer (not shown).

The table stored in the ROM12includes, e.g., a table for controlling stoppage of symbol reels; a table having combinations of symbols that would constitute winning combinations (hereinafter simply called a “win achievement symbol combination table”); a speaker position table; and a game lamp position table.

In the stop control table to be used for controlling stoppage of the symbol reels, symbols on the symbol reels2,3,4and their arrangements are recorded in an associated manner. When a relative positional relationship between a symbol on the symbol reel2, a corresponding symbol on the symbol reel3, and another corresponding symbol on the symbol reel4are determined, relative positional relationships between other symbols are determined automatically.

For instance, when16symbols are provided on each of the symbol reels2,3, and4, symbol codes1through16are appended to respective symbols on the symbol reels2,3, and4. A relative positional relationship between other symbols is recognized by reference to the symbols on the symbol code1, thereby controlling stoppage of the symbol reels2,3, and4.

Here, establishment of a winning combination by means of the symbols on the symbol reels2,3, and4that are stopped is determined by use of random numbers generated at predetermined probabilities by means of a random number generator consisting of a hardware counter. The random number generator may be constituted by use of software.

Stored in the win achievement symbol combination table are data pertaining to symbols which are to be aligned along the payout lines ht1. . . and determine establishment of a bonus game. Moreover, stored in the table are data pertaining to the number of coins or tokens to be supplied to a player in accordance with establishment of various winning combinations.

The speaker position table is a table on which are recorded positions of the speakers1pof the multi-station game machine1.

The game lamp position table is a table on which are recorded positions of the game lamps u1of the multi-station game machine1.

A control program to be used for controlling the overall multi-station game machine1is recorded on the ROM12. The control program is used for driving stepping motors and controlling stop positions of the respective stepping motors, the motors being used for spinning the symbol reels2,3, and4; controlling hoppers to be used for paying out coins or tokens; performing processing for betting coins or tokens on any of the payout lines ht1. . . ; ascertaining the number of remaining coins or tokens; ascertaining game results; operation control for blinking the game lamps u1. . . ; and control for outputting sound to the speakers p1. . . .

Here, the control program is manufactured by use of C language. However, the program may be produced by use of assembler language.

A work area to be used for executing the control program is generated in the RAM13, or variable data are temporarily stored in the RAM13.

More specifically, stored in the RAM13are data pertaining to the number of coins or tokens inserted into and paid out of the respective stations s1, s2, s3, s4, . . . , and a total number of coins or tokens inserted into and paid out from the respective stations.

By means of executing the program stored in the ROM12, the CPU11controls the respective stepping motors to be used for spinning the symbol reels2,3,4and the overall multi-station game machine1, such as various processing operations corresponding to input operations of players.

Stored in the hard disk drive14are data pertaining to results of games played at the respective stations and a history of game results.

The CD-ROM drive16is used for loading CD-ROMs having image data or the like recorded thereon into display panels of the respective stations s1, s2, s3, s4, . . . sn, or for loading CD-ROMs having a control program of updated version stored therein at the time of installation of the control program of updated version.

An input interface circuit17functions as an input interface for inputs from position sensors or the like for sensing positions of the symbol reels2,3,4, and an output interface circuit18functions as an output interface for outputs, such as control signals, from the CPU11to the stepping motors of the respective symbol reels2,3,4.

A maintenance monitor22is a monitor to be used by a game machine manager for performing maintenance on the multi-station game machine1. A display section of the maintenance monitor22is constituted of a CRT or an LCD.

An image interface circuit19functions as an output interface for outputting an image signal from the CPU11. The image interface circuit19outputs the image signal input from the CPU11to the maintenance monitor22by means of expansion and digital-to-analog conversion of the image data.

An audio interface circuit21is an output interface for outputting an audio signal output from the CPU11to a speaker23as an audio signal by means of decoding the audio signal.

As mentioned above, the station units y1, y2, . . . yn are of identical configuration, and hence an explanation is now given of only the station unit yl.

The station unit y1plays the role of an output interface for outputting an image signal output from the CPU11to the display panel h1which displays progress in a game and a player's operation.

An image circuit25outputs the image signal transmitted from the CPU11to the display panel h1as image information by means of expansion and digital-to-analog conversion of the image signal.

An input circuit26provided in the station unit y1is an input interface for inputting, into the CPU11, a signal output from a sensor, such as a coin sensor (not shown) for sensing coins or tokens inserted by way of a coin insert slot i1, or a signal output from a switch, such as a button switch to be turned on when a button of a control button section b1is pressed.

An output circuit (game lamp controller)27disposed in the station unit y1is an output interface for outputting the signal delivered from the CPU1to the game lamps u1. . . , which lamps emit optical game effects, or to a hopper or the like which pays out coins or tokens, and is constituted of an amplifying circuit or the like.

A sound circuit (game speaker controller)28disposed at the station unit y1is an output interface for outputting an audio signal, which is delivered from the CPU11to the speaker p1, to the speaker p1as an audio signal through decoding.

Next will be described control processing of the multi-station game machine1in each of game modes (seeFIGS. 1,2,8, and9).

Here, control processing of the multi-station game machine1is performed by means of execution of the control program recorded on the ROM12.

Game modes of the multi-station game machine1are generally divided into a game when power is turned on, a normal game, and a bonus game.

When power of the multi-station game machine1is turned on, systems disposed in the center unit, such as the ROM12, the RAM13, and the hard disk drive14, are inspected.

Next, the control program loads image data from the CD-ROM loaded in the CD-ROM drive16and transmits the image data to the respective image circuits25of the station units y1, y2, y3, y4, . . . by way of the system bus20.

The respective image circuits25of the station units y1, y2, y3, y4, which are received image data output image information to the respective display panels h1. . . , whereby a game image appears on each of the display panels h1. . . .

When a normal game is started, a control program is executed, whereupon a symbol reel drive signal is transmitted to the stepping motors from the CPU11to the output circuit18, to thereby start spinning of the symbol reels2,3, and4.

Information about positions of the symbols on the spinning symbol reels2,3, and4is transmitted to the respective image circuits25of the station units y1, y2, y3, y4, . . . , and the image circuits25output image information to the respective display panels h1. . . .

The display panels h1. . . into which the image information is input display the symbols21. . . on the spinning symbol reel2, the symbols31. . . on the spinning symbol reel3, and the symbols41. . . on the spinning symbol reel4.

Concurrently, bet time information is transmitted to the respective image circuits25of the stations units y1, y2, y3, y4, . . . from the CPU11. A bet time information screen appears on the respective display panels h1, . . . of the stations s1, s2, s3, s4, . . . sn, thereby informing respective players of a bet time.

On the bet time information screen, each of the players bets a desired number of coins or tokens inserted for each of the desired payout lines ht11, . . . .

More specifically, each of the players selects desired payout lines from the payout lines ht11. . . appearing on the bet time information screen by means of pressing a line selection button of the control button section b1. The player presses a bet button or maximum bet button of the control button section b1, to thereby display a desired number of coins or tokens from among the coins or tokens inserted on the bet time information screen and then bets the desired number of coins or tokens.

A line selection input signal output from a button switch of a line selection button and a number-of-bets set input signal output from a bet button or a button switch for the maximum bet button are transmitted to the CPU11as bet setting input signals by way of the input circuit26.

Upon receiving the bet setting input signals for the respective stations s1, s2, s3, s4, . . . sn, the CPU11records the signals as bet information in the RAM13or the hard disk drive14for respective stations s1, s2, s3, s4, . . . sn.

Needless to say, the maximum number of coins or tokens to be bet, which is set by the maximum bet button, can be arbitrarily set; for example, to10,12, . . . .

When a predetermined period of bet time counted by the timer is ended, the CPU11transmits bet time end information to the display panels h1. . . of the respective stations s1, s2, s3, s4, . . . sn, and the information appears on the display panels h1. . . , whereupon the bet time information screen is terminated.

As a result, only the symbols21. . . on the spinning symbol reel2, the symbols31. . . on the spinning symbol reel3, and the symbols41. . . on the spinning symbol reel4appear on the display panels h1. . . .

Concurrently, the following control operation is performed, as required. Namely, the CPU11sequentially transmits an audio signal to the speakers p1. . . by way of an sound circuit28. In accordance with spinning actions of the symbols21. . . on the symbol reel2, the symbols31. . . on the symbol reel3, and the symbols41. . . on the symbol reel4, game sound effects are emitted from the speakers p1, and sound images are caused to go around the game machine.

After a predetermined period of time counted by the timer since the end of the bet time, spinning actions of the symbol reels2,3, and4are sequentially stopped by use of the timer.

Here, when establishment of a winning combination is determined by symbols, or as a result of combination of symbols through internal random selection, the symbols which are to constitute a winning combination and their positions on the symbol reels2,3, and4are grasped by use of the win achievement symbol combination table, the stop control table, and the position sensors. Then, there is performed, as required, a presentation of emitting game sound effects from the speaker p1located close to the symbols which are to constitute a winning combination on the symbol reels2,3,4, thereby causing sound images to go around the game machine, emitting optical game effects from the game lamp u1located close to the symbols which are to constitute a winning combination, and causing illumination light or blinking light to go around the game machine.

For example, when establishment of a winning combination is determined by symbols, or as a result of combination of symbols through internal random selection, game sound effects are emitted from the speaker p1located close to the symbols which are to constitute a winning combination and provided on any of the symbol reels2,3,4, the reels being currently spinning and to stop; sound images are caused to go around the game machine; optical game effects are emitted from the game lamp u1located close to the symbols that are to constitute a winning combination; and illumination light or blinking light is caused to go around the game machine.

Alternatively, when establishment of a big winning combination is determined by symbols, or as a result of combination of symbols through internal random selection, the following presentation is performed: namely, game sound effects for establishment of a big winning combination are emitted from the speaker p1alocated close to the big win symbol41aon the symbol reel4, the reel still spinning after the symbol reels2and3are stopped; sound images are caused to go around the game machine; optical game effects for establishment of a big winning combination are emitted from the game lamp u1alocated close to the big win symbol; and illumination light or blinking light is caused to go around the game machine.

As shown inFIG. 8, establishment of a big winning combination is assumed to be determined by symbols or as a result of combination of symbols through internal random selection. The big win symbol21aon the symbol reel2is assumed to be stopped and aligned with the reference payout line ht21of the station s1. Subsequently, the big win symbol31aon the symbol reel3is assumed to be stopped and aligned with the reference payout line ht21. The symbol reel4which are not stopped and whose symbol to be stopped is not yet determined is assumed to still be spinning in the direction of arrow A. Under these circumstances, the CPU11recognizes that the big win symbol21aon the symbol reel2and the big win symbol31aof the symbol reel3are stopped and aligned with the reference payout line ht21, through use of the stop control table stored in the ROM12.

Subsequently, the CPU11grasps the spinning position of the big win symbol41aof the symbol reel4by use of the position sensor for the symbol reel4and the stop control table stored in the ROM12.

The CPU11determines the speaker1aand the game lamp u1alocated most close to the spinning position of the big win symbol41a, by use of the speaker position table and the game lamp position table.

The CPU11transmits a game sound effect signal to the speaker p1aby way of the sound circuit28of the station (i.e., any one of the stations s1, s2, s3, s4, . . . sn) where the speaker p1ais located.

Similarly, the CPU11transmits an optical game effect signal to the speaker u1aby way of the output circuit27of the station (i.e., any one of the stations s1, s2, s3, s4, . . . sn) where the game lamp u1ais located.

In this way, when establishment of a big winning combination is determined, game sound effects for establishment of a big winning combination are emitted from the speaker p1alocated close to the big win symbol41aon the symbol reel4, the reel still spinning. Simultaneously, attractive optical game effects for establishment of a big winning combination are emitted from the game lamp u1a located close to the big win symbol41a. In association with movement of the big win symbol41aof the symbol reel4which is not stopped and whose symbol to be stopped is not determined, sound effects for establishment of a big winning combination and optical effects for establishment of a big winning combination are emitted.

Concurrently, information about the symbols on the stationary symbol reels2,3, and4appearing at the respective stations s1, s2, s3, s4, . . . sn is transmitted from the CPU11to the display panels h1. . . hn of the respective stations s1, s2, s3, s4, . . . sn by way of the image circuit25.

Subsequently, occurrence of a win on the respective stations s1, s2, s3, s4, . . . ; namely, alignment, along the payout lines ht1. . . on which individual players have bet coins or tokens beforehand, of symbols on the symbols reels2,3, and4which would constitute a winning combination, is determined by use of the win achievement symbol combination table stored in the ROM12. Thus, payout information; that is, the number of winning players and the number of coins or tokens to be paid out, is determined.

Establishment of a winning combination is not necessarily set as a case where three symbols that constitute a winning combination are aligned.

The thus-determined payout information is transmitted from the CUP11to the hoppers by way of the output circuits27of the respective stations s1, s2, s3, s4, . . . sn. Coins or tokens corresponding to a reward for achievement of a win are paid to winning players and stored in the payout receivers m1, . . . mn.

The payout information is recorded on the RAM13or the hard disk drive14for respective stations s1, s2, s3, s4, . . . sn along with the bet information about the respective players.

When a bonus game is established as a result of combination of the symbols on the symbol reels2,3,4that are determined in an basic game, processing of a bonus game is performed.

Here, the bonus game is played in images appearing on the display panels1h. . . of the respective stations s1, s2, s3, s4. . . .

Image information about a bonus game is transmitted from the CPU11to the display panels1h. . . of the respective stations s1, s2, s3, s4, . . . at which a bonus game is established, by way of the image circuit25, whereby bonus game images are displayed.

Here, the image information about a bonus game corresponds to images showing spinning of the symbols21. . . on the symbol reel2, spinning of the symbols31. . . on the symbol reel3, and spinning of the symbols41. . . on the symbol reel4. After lapse of a predetermined period of time counted by the timer, spinning actions of the symbol reels2,3, and4in the image are sequentially stopped, thereby determining a symbol on the symbol reel2, that on the symbol reel3, and that on the symbol reel4. The thus-determined symbols appear on the display panels1h.

Here, as in the case of an basic game, random numbers produced from the random number generator are used for random numbers to be used for determining the stop positions of the symbol reels2,3,4in the bonus game.

Subsequently, occurrence of a win is determined for the respective stations s1, s2, s3, s4, . . . where the bonus game is played, by use of the win achievement symbol combination table stored in the ROM12. Thus, bonus payout information; that is, the number of winning players or the number of coins or tokens to be paid out, is determined.

The thus-determined bonus payout information is transmitted from the CPU11to the output circuit27of the stations s1, s2, s3, s4, . . . sn where the bonus games is played. Coins or tokens corresponding to a reward for achievement of a win are paid from the hoppers to winning players and stored in the payout receivers m1. . . .

The bonus payout information is recorded on the RAM13or the hard disk drive14for respective stations s1, s2, s3, s4, . . . sn where bonus games is played.

When processing of the bonus game is completed, processing of an basic game is resumed.

Here, the game machine is constructed such that a bonus game is to be played in the form of an image by use of the display panels h1. . . of the stations s1, s2, s3, s4. . . where a bonus game is established. Needless to say, the bonus game can be performed by rotating actual symbol reels2,3, and4.

There will now be described processing, such as storage/reference of game data pertaining to results of the basic games and those of the bonus games.

As mentioned previously, results of basic games and those of bonus games played on the respective stations s1, s2, s3, s4, . . . sn are recorded on the RAM13and the hard disk drive14along with bet information about the respective players.

When the game machine manager desires to refer to game result information, desired game results or data pertaining to game results are summated and displayed on the maintenance monitor22as various game result aggregates or statistic values for reference.

More specifically, when a request for displaying game results is sent to the CPU11by means of operation of the game machine manager, the CPU11reads game result information from the RAM13or the hard disk drive14and processes the information in accordance with the request by the game machine manager. The thus-processed information is transmitted to the maintenance monitor22as image information, by way of the image circuit19.

The maintenance monitor22to which image information is transmitted from the CPU11displays a game result information image requested by the game machine manager.

The game machine manager displays, on the display panels h1. . . of the arbitrary stations s1, s2, s3, s4, . . . sn, the game result information image to be displayed on the maintenance monitor22.

When a player who plays games on the stations s1, s2, s3, s4, . . . sn desire to ascertain results of his/her games; for example, results of the games played in the past, a total number of inserted coins or tokens, and a total number of coins or tokens to be paid out, the player issues a request for displaying his/her game results by pressing a remaining credit ascertainment button of the control button section b1on the operation table t1.

Then, a signal to be output from the button switch—which is to be turned on when the remaining credit ascertainment button of the control button section b1is pressed—is transmitted to the CPU11by way of the input circuit26.

Upon receipt of a request for displaying game results of a player, the CPU11reads game result information for each station from the RAM13or the hard disk drive14in accordance with the player's request and processes the thus-read game result information. The information is then transmitted to the display panel1has image information, by way of the image circuit25.

The display panel h1that is received the image information from the CPU11displays the game result information image requested by the player.

In this way, the players who play at the stations s1, s2, s3, s4, . . . sn can refer to desired game result information about their own games on the display panels h1.

Next, the flow of a series of operations pertaining to a game to be played on the multi-station game machine1will be described by reference toFIG. 10.

When the game machine manager presses a game start button (not shown) of the multi-station game machine1,

the symbol reels2,3,4start spinning.

The symbols21. . . on the spinning symbol reel2, the symbols31. . . on the spinning symbol reel3, and the symbols41. . . on the spinning symbol reel4concurrently appear on the display panels h1, . . . hn of the respective stations s1, s2, s3, s4, . . . sn. Further, a bet time information screen is displayed, thereby informing players of a bet time.

First, each of the players presses a line selection button of the control button section b1on the bet time information screen, thereby selecting a desired payout lines ht11, ht12, ht13. . . from the payout lines ht11, ht12, ht13. . . appearing on the bet time information screen.

Subsequently, each of the players presses the bet button or the maximum bet button of the control button section b1, thereby setting and displaying a desired number of coins or tokens inserted by the player beforehand and still reserved, and bets the coins or tokens on the selected payout lines ht11, ht12, ht13. . .

When the bet time is completed, completion of the bet time is displayed on the display panels h1of the respective stations s1, s2, s3, s4, . . . sn, thus terminating the bet time information screen.

After completion of the bet time, game sound effects are emitted from the speaker p1in association with spinning of the symbols21. . . on the symbol reel2, spinning of the symbols31. . . on the symbol reel3, and spinning of the symbols41. . . on the symbol reel4. Further, sound images are caused to go around the game machine. Alternatively, the following control operation may be performed, as required. Namely, optical game effects are emitted from the game lamp u1, and illumination light or blinking light is caused to go around the game machine.

After lapse of a predetermined period of time from the end of the bet time, spinning of the symbol reel2, that of the symbol reel3, and that of the symbol reel4are sequentially stopped.

Here, when establishment of a winning combination is determined through internal random selection, the following presentation is also performed, as required. Namely, game sound effects are emitted from the speaker p1located close to the symbols on the spinning symbol reels2,3,4, which symbols would constitute a winning combination. Sound images are caused to go around the game machine, and optical game effects are emitted from the game lamp u1located close to the symbols. Further, illumination light or blinking light is caused to go around the game machine.

For instance, when a winning combination is determined by means of internal random selection, game sound effects are emitted from the speaker p1located close to the symbols on any of the spinning symbol reels2,3,4, that would constitute a winning combination. Sound images are caused to go around the game machine, and optical game effects are emitted from the game lamp u1located close to the symbols. Further, illumination light or blinking light is caused to go around the game machine.

Alternatively, as shown inFIG. 8, when a big winning combination is determined through internal random selection, the big win symbol21aon the symbol reel2is stopped and aligned with any one of the payout lines ht11, ht12, ht13. . . . Subsequently, the big win symbol31aon the symbol reel3is stopped and aligned with the same payout line. Game sound effects for establishment of a big winning combination are emitted from the speaker p1alocated close to the big win symbol41aon the symbol reel4, which reel is still spinning. In addition, attractive optical game effects for establishment of a big winning combination are emitted from the game lamp u1alocated close to the big win symbol41a. In association with movement of the big win symbol41a, sound effects for establishment of a big winning combination and optical effects for establishment of a big winning combination are emitted.

The foregoing presentation of a game can also be applied to establishment of a winning combination other than a big winning combination; e.g., establishment of a medium winning combination, establishment of a small winning combination, establishment of a bonus game, or establishment of a winning combination involving a payout higher than a predetermined payout.

Are all the symbol reels2,3, and4stopped?

Occurrence of a win is determined for each of the stations s1, s2, s3, s4, . . . . Coins or tokens are paid to the stations s1, s2, s3, s4, . . . where players are achieved a win. In other words, coins or tokens corresponding to a reward for a win are paid and stored in the payout receivers m1. . . .

Is payout processing completed?

Does a result of determination of occurrence of a win for each of the stations s1, s2, s3, s4, . . . show any winners in the stations s1, s2, s3, s4. . . sn where a bonus game is established?

When a bonus game is established in the stations s1, s2, s3, s4, . . . sn, a bonus game image appears on the display panels1hof the stations s1, s2, s3, s4, . . . where a bonus game is to be played.

The symbols21. . . on the symbol reel2, the symbols31. . . on the symbol reel3, and the symbols41. . . on the symbol reel4are stopped in the bonus game image after spinning of the symbol reels, as required, whereby symbols on the symbol reels2,3, and4are determined, to thereby display the symbols on the display panels1h.

Occurrence of a win is determined. A bonus payout; that is, coins or tokens corresponding to a reward for a bonus win, is paid from hoppers to winning players and stored in their payout receivers m1. . . .

When the players continue playing games, processing returns to

As mentioned above, the flow of a series of operations pertaining to a game to be played on the multi-station game machine1is described. As bonus games which are to be displayed and played on the display panels1hof the stations s1, s2, s3, s4, . . . sn, games other than the combination game, such as card games or bingo games, may be employed.

In the embodiment, a combination game involving usage of the symbol reels2,3,4is performed first, and a bonus game is offered to solely the players who are awarded the right to play a bonus game, by way of the display panels1h. Conversely, all players may individually play bonus game by way of the display panels1hprior to a combination game involving usage of the symbol reels2,3, and4. In the bonus game, only the players who are gained certain points are awarded the right to play a combination game involving usage of the symbol reels2,3,4.

Various games can be realized by combination of the combination games involving usage of the symbol reels2,3,4and a bonus game appearing on the display panels1h.

In the above configuration, players can play games at the stations s2, s3, s4, . . . disposed so as to surround the multi-station game machine1. Hence, a plurality of players can enjoy playing games simultaneously.

As can be seen fromFIGS. 2 through 7, all symbols on the symbol reels2,3, and4can be utilized for the games. Hence, payout lines can be produced for all symbols on the symbol reels2,3, and4.

In addition, during the course of a game, speakers disposed around the symbol reels2,3, and4sequentially emit sound or become muted, and/or game lamps are sequentially illuminated and extinguished. Hence, attractive presentation of a game becomes possible.

Game sound effects are emitted from the speaker p1in association with spinning of the symbols21. . . on the symbol reel2, spinning of the symbols31. . . on the symbol reel3, and spinning of the symbols41. . . on the symbol reel4. Further, sound images are caused to go around the game machine; optical game effects are emitted from the game lamp u1; and illumination light or blinking light is caused to go around the game machine, thereby enabling presentation of a game which provides audiovisual stimulation.

When establishment of a winning combination is determined by symbols, or as a result of combination of symbols through internal random selection, game sound effects are emitted from the speaker located close to the symbols which are to constitute a winning combination and provided on any of the symbol reels, the reels being currently spinning and to stop; sound images are caused to go around the game machine; optical game effects are emitted from the game lamp u1located close to the symbols that are to constitute a winning combination; and illumination light or blinking light is caused to go around the game machine, thereby augmenting interest in games.

Alternatively, establishment of a big winning combination is assumed to be determined by symbols or as a result of combination of symbols through internal random selection. Symbols that would constitute a winning combination are assumed to be stopped and aligned with a payout line. A symbol reel which is not stopped and whose symbol to be stopped is not determined is assumed to still be spinning. Only under these circumstances, if game sound effects are emitted from the speaker p1alocated at a position corresponding to the symbols and optical game effects are emitted from the game lamp u1alocated at a position corresponding to the symbols, sound images and illumination light or blinking light are caused to go around the game machine in association with spinning of the final symbol which is not determined to be stopped and would constitute a winning combination. Hence, the interest of the player who hopes for establishment of a winning combination is augmented more and more, thereby achieving a rich entertainment characteristic.

The reference payout lines are provided to respective players of stations, thereby making the stations explicit and easy to determine. Players can play games while clearly ascertaining their own stations.

Shared payout lines to be shared between adjacent players are provided on the game machine. Hence, when a winning combination is established along any of the shared payout lines, coins or tokens are excessively paid to adjacent players as a celebratory payout and a shared bonus payout, which are not provided by related game machines, thereby enabling a winning player to share the pleasure of winning with the adjacent players.

In this way, shared payout lines enable realization of additional payouts which are not available on the related game machines. Hence, a great merit for players is realized; that is, an increased chance of profitably betting coins or tokens on payout lines. Further, because of a demerit, which would otherwise be yielded when the player does not bet any coins or tokens on a shared payout line; that is, the impossibility of gaining a large amount of payout without betting coins or tokens on the shared payout lines, a player is motivated to bet coins or tokens on as many payout lines as possible in order to avoid experiencing regret or to achieve a win in a game. Hence, players can fully enjoy the pleasure of games, a feature which is not offered by related game machines.

In addition, players who achieves a win in the bonus game through a combination game involving usage of the symbol reels2,3,4can play bonus games by way of display panels after completion of the combination games.

Bonus games to be played over images appearing on the display panels can also be provided prior to a combination game involving usage of the symbol reels2,3,4. By means of causing a combination game involving usage of the symbol reels2,3,4to be associated with a bonus game involving images appearing on display panels, a variety of games can be realized.

Accordingly, a plurality of players can enjoy playing games simultaneously. Further, players can share payout lines, thereby realizing additional payouts. Thus, there is realized a multi-station game machine which enables augmentation of interest in games and is rich in entertainment characteristic.

In the embodiment, symbol reels are constructed in three layers. However, the number of symbol reels can be arbitrarily set to two layers, four layers, five layers, or any other number of layers, as required.

Although the symbol reels are constructed so as to spin individually and horizontally around a vertical axis, needless to say, symbol reels can be constructed so as to be able to individually and substantially horizontally spin around a substantially vertical axis.

The embodiment is illustrated a multi-station game machine which offers a combination game. Needless to say, the multi-station game machine of the invention can be effectively applied to even a game machine which offers another game and in which reels are spun within a substantially horizontal plane.