Patent Publication Number: US-8123603-B2

Title: Gaming machine allowing player to select dealer and control method thereof

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application claims benefit of priority based on U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/038,948 filed on Mar. 24, 2008. The contents of this application are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     Field of the Invention 
     The present invention relates to a gaming machine allowing a player to select a dealer, and a control method thereof. 
     Conventionally, there have been installed in casinos, gaming facilities, and the like, card game machines and tables for playing card games in which a dealer and a plurality of players join, such as Poker having a variety of gaming methods including Pai Gow Poker, Holdem Poker and 7 Stad Poker; Bakkarat; and Blackjack. 
     For example, in U.S. Pat. No. 6,007,424 and US 2006/0084505-A1, a table and a card game machine for playing Pai Gow Poker are described. 
     Further, as disclosed in US 2006/0287043-A1 and US 2006/0009283-A1, there exists a game system in which a plurality of gaming machines (player terminals) are linked and a plurality of players are able to play a common game. 
     In some of the conventional gaming machines and playing methods of card games, a game is played while displaying a dealer image to a display for the purpose of improving a realism of the game. However, the displayed dealer image has always been an image of the same type, namely, an image representing the same person in the same costume. Further, although changes in dealer and his or her costume have been made, the dealer and his or her costume after the change have been determined at random or by a lottery. 
     Therefore, in the conventional art, the player has no selection of the dealer and his or her costume, whereby it has not been possible not only to reflect a player&#39;s request for optional change of the dealer image, but also to use the request for motivating the player to place a further BET. 
     Under such circumstances, there have been developed a gaming machine allowing a player to select a dealer image to be displayed to a display. In such a gaming machine, a player playing a game at a player terminal having satisfied a predetermined condition can select a dealer image to be displayed during a next game. 
     However, in such a gaming machine, even though the dealer image is selected, such a dealer image is used in the game only in an effect for proceeding with the game. Therefore, for the player, selecting the dealer image is merely for displaying his or her favorite image to the display, and hence the player may gradually become tired of the game. 
     The present invention was made in view of the foregoing problems, and has an object to provide a gaming machine that displays a dealer image offering a profit to a player, and a control method thereof. 
     The contents of U.S. Pat. No. 6,007,424, US 2006/0084505-A1, US 2006/0287043-A1, and US 2006/0009283-A1 are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     A first aspect of the present invention provides a gaming machine having the following configuration. 
     Namely, the gaming machine comprises: a display capable of displaying an image; a plurality of stations each having an input device and being arranged at a position from which the display is visible to a player playing a game; a memory storing a plurality of types of dealer image data each showing a dealer image; and a controller. The controller is programmed so as to execute the processing of (a) displaying the dealer image selected from a plurality of types of the dealer images to the display based on the dealer image data stored in the memory, (b) accepting a normal BET from the input device provided in each of the stations, (c) accepting an additional BET different from the normal BET, from the input device provided in each of the stations, (d) offering a normal payout, after executing the game, based on a result of the game and the normal BET, (e) offering a profit in accordance with the dealer image displayed to the display in the station where the additional BET has been placed, (f) calculating in each of the stations a total number of BETs as a sum of a number of normal BETs and a number of additional BETs over a predetermined unit number of the games, and (g) accepting an input for selecting the dealer image to be displayed to the display from the input device provided in the station where the total number of BETs is the largest as a result of a comparison of the total number of BETs at each of the stations calculated in the processing (f). 
     According to the above gaming machine, a dealer image selected from a plurality of types of dealer images is displayed to a display, and a profit (e.g. a game support advantageous for the player) in accordance with the dealer image is offered to a station where an additional BET has been placed. Then, a total number of BETs in each station over a unit number of games is calculated and compared. A selection of a dealer image is accepted at the station where the total number of BETs is the largest. 
     Namely, the player having placed the largest amount of BETs over the unit number of games can select the dealer image to be displayed to the display. Therefore, it is possible to have the player who wishes to select the dealer image consume many game media. 
     Further, when the additional BET is placed separately from the normal BET, the profit in accordance with the dealer image displayed to the display at that time is offered to the station where the additional BET has been placed. This can motivate the player to place the additional BET. Consequently, it is possible to have the player consume more game media. 
     As thus described, since the player can play a game against the dealer selected by his or her own choice, or receive a profit from the dealer on whom the player has placed the additional BET, it is possible to have the player emotionally attached to the dealer, so as to make the game more interesting. Further, the player capable of placing a large amount of BET can feel superior to other players. 
     Further, it is desirable that the above-mentioned gaming machine has the following configuration. 
     Namely, the processing (g) is processing of accepting the input for selecting the dealer image to be displayed to the display from the input device provided in the station where the total number of BETs is the largest as a result of the comparison of the total number of BETs at each of the stations calculated in the processing (f), out of the stations where the additional BETs have been placed during the predetermined unit number of games. 
     According to the above gaming machine, the player having placed the additional BET over the unit number of games and having placed the largest amount of BET during the games can select the dealer image to be displayed to the display. It is therefore possible to grant a selection of the dealer image accurately to the player interested in receiving the profit from the dealer, while motivating the player to place the additional BET. 
     Further, it is desirable that the above-mentioned gaming machine has the following configuration. 
     Namely, the controller is further programmed so as to execute the processing of (h) cumulatively accumulating a predetermined percentage of additional-bet game media in association with the dealer image displayed to the display, and (i) offering a special payout, at the station having satisfied a condition determined for each of the plurality of types of the dealer images, from game media cumulatively accumulated in association with the dealer image for which the condition is determined. 
     According to the gaming machine, part of additionally bet game media is cumulatively accumulated for each dealer image, and a special payout is offered to the player having satisfied a condition determined for each dealer image from the game media accumulated in association with the dealer image. It is therefore possible to have the player absorbed in satisfying the condition of each dealer, and further to have the player consume more game media for obtaining the selection of the dealer from the inclination to satisfy conditions determined for all the dealer images. 
     A second aspect of the present invention provides a gaming machine having the following configuration. 
     Namely, the gaming machine comprises: a display capable of displaying an image; a plurality of stations each having an input device and being arranged at a position from which the display is visible to a player playing a game; a memory storing a plurality of types of dealer image data each showing a dealer image; and a controller. The controller is programmed so as to execute the processing of (a) displaying the dealer image selected from a plurality of types of the dealer images to the display based on the dealer image data stored in the memory, (b) accepting a normal BET from the input device provided in each of the stations, (c) accepting an additional BET different from the normal BET from the input device provided in each of the stations, (d) offering a normal payout, after executing the game, based on a result of the game and the normal BET, (e) offering a profit in accordance with the dealer image displayed to the display in the station where the additional BET has been placed, (f) calculating in each of the stations a total number of losses obtained by subtracting a total number of payouts as a total amount of game media offered over a predetermined unit number of games from a total number of BETs as sum of a number of normal BETs and a number of additional BETs over the predetermined unit number of games, and (g) accepting an input for selecting the dealer image to be displayed to the display from the input device provided in the station where the total number of losses is the largest as a result of a comparison of the total number of losses at each of the stations calculated in the processing (f). 
     According to the above gaming machine, a dealer image selected from a plurality of types of dealer images is displayed to a display, and a profit (e.g. a game support advantageous for the player) in accordance with the dealer image is offered to a station where an additional BET has been placed. Then, a total number of losses (difference between the total number of BETs and the total number of payouts) in each station over a unit number of games is calculated and compared. A selection of a dealer image is accepted at the station where the total number of losses is the largest. 
     Namely, the player having incurred the largest amount of loss over the unit number of games can select the dealer image to be displayed to the display. It is therefore possible to relieve the player having incurred a large amount of loss, so as to prevent the player having incurred the large amount of loss from losing an interest and a motivation to play the game. 
     Further, when the additional BET is placed separately from the normal BET, the profit in accordance with the dealer image displayed to the display at that time is offered to the station where the additional BET has been placed. This can motivate the player to place the additional BET. Consequently, it is possible to have the player consume more game media. 
     As thus described, since the player can play a game against the dealer selected by his or her own choice, or receive a profit from the dealer on whom the player has placed the additional BET, it is possible to have the player emotionally attached to the dealer, so as to make the game more interesting. 
     Further, it is desirable that the above-mentioned gaming machine has the following configuration. 
     Namely, the processing (g) is processing of accepting the input for selecting the dealer image to be displayed to the display from the input device provided in the station where the total number of losses is the largest as a result of the comparison of the total number of losses at each of the stations calculated in the processing (f), out of the stations where the additional BETs have been placed during the predetermined unit number of games. 
     According to the above gaming machine, the player having placed the additional BET over the unit number of games and having been incurred the largest amount of losses during the games can select the dealer image to be displayed to the display. It is therefore possible to grant a selection of the dealer image accurately to the player interested in receiving the profit from the dealer, while motivating the player to place the additional BET. 
     Further, it is desirable that the above-mentioned gaming machine has the following configuration. 
     Namely, the controller is further programmed so as to execute the processing of (h) cumulatively accumulating a predetermined percentage of additional-bet game media in association with the dealer image displayed to the display, and (i) offering a special payout, at the station having satisfied a condition determined for each of the plurality of types of the dealer images, from game media cumulatively accumulated in association with the dealer image for which the condition is set. 
     According to the gaming machine, part of additionally bet game media is cumulatively accumulated for each dealer image, and a special payout is offered to the player having satisfied a condition determined for each dealer image from the game media accumulated in association with the dealer image. It is therefore possible to have the player absorbed in satisfying the condition of each dealer. 
     A third aspect of the present invention provides a control method of a gaming machine, the control method having the following configuration. 
     Namely, the control method of a gaming machine, the playing method comprising the steps of: (a) displaying a dealer image selected from a plurality of types of the dealer images to a display based on dealer image data showing the dealer image, the dealer image data being stored in a memory; (b) accepting a normal BET from an input device provided in each station arranged at a position from which the display is visible to a player playing a game; (c) accepting an additional BET different from the normal BET, from the input device provided in each of the stations; (d) offering a normal payout, after executing the game, based on a result of the game and the normal BET; (e) offering a profit in accordance with the dealer image displayed to the display in the station where the additional BET has been placed; (f) calculating in each of the stations a total number of BETs as a sum of a number of normal BETs and a number of additional BETs over a predetermined unit number of the games; and (g) accepting an input for selecting the dealer image to be displayed to the display from the input device provided in the station where the total number of BETs is the largest as a result of a comparison of the total number of BETs at each of the stations calculated in the step (f). 
     According to the control method of the gaming machine, a dealer image selected from a plurality of types of dealer images is displayed to a display, and a profit (e.g. a game support advantageous for the player) in accordance with the dealer image is offered to a station where an additional BET has been placed. Then, a total number of BETs in each station over a unit number of games is calculated and compared. A selection of a dealer image is accepted at the station where the total number of BETs is the largest. 
     Namely, the player having placed the largest amount of BETs over the unit number of games can select the dealer image to be displayed to the display. Therefore, it is possible to have the player who wishes to select the dealer image consume many game media. 
     Further, when the additional BET is placed separately from the normal BET, the profit in accordance with the dealer image displayed to the display at that time is offered to the station where the additional BET has been placed. This can motivate the player to place the additional BET. Consequently, it is possible to have the player consume more game media. 
     As thus described, since the player can play a game against the dealer selected by his or her own choice, or receive a profit from the dealer on whom the player has placed the additional BET, it is possible to have the player emotionally attached to the dealer, so as to make the game more interesting. Further, the player capable of placing a large amount of BET can feel superior to other players. 
     Further, it is desirable that the above-mentioned control method of a gaming machine has the following configuration. 
     Namely, the step (g) is a step of accepting the input for selecting the dealer image to be displayed to the display from the input device provided in the station where the total number of BETs is the largest as a result of the comparison of the total number of BETs at each of the stations calculated in the step (f), out of the stations where the additional BETs have been placed during the predetermined unit number of games. 
     According to the control method of the gaming machine, the player having placed the additional BET over the unit number of games and having placed the largest amount of BET during the games can select the dealer image to be displayed to the display. It is therefore possible to grant a selection of the dealer image accurately to the player interested in receiving the profit from the dealer, while motivating the player to place the additional BET. 
     Further, it is desirable that the above-mentioned control method of a gaming machine has the following configuration. 
     Namely, the control method further including the step of: (h) cumulatively accumulating a predetermined percentage of additional-bet game media in association with the dealer image displayed to the display; and (i) offering a special payout, at the station having satisfied a condition determined for each of the plurality of types of the dealer images, from game media cumulatively accumulated in association with the dealer image for which the condition is set. 
     According to the control method of the gaming machine, part of additionally bet game media is cumulatively accumulated for each dealer image, and a special payout is offered to the player having satisfied a condition determined for each dealer image from the game media accumulated in association with the dealer image. It is therefore possible to have the player absorbed in satisfying the condition of each dealer, and further to have the player consume more game media for obtaining the selection of the dealer from the inclination to satisfy conditions determined for all the dealer images. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTIONS OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1A  is a flowchart showing card game processing executed in a main control portion provided in a gaming machine according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 1B  is a flowchart showing the card game processing executed in the main control portion provided in the gaming machine according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 2  is a perspective view schematically showing an appearance configuration of the gaming machine according to a present embodiment. 
         FIG. 3  is a perspective view schematically showing an appearance configuration of the station in the gaming machine. 
         FIG. 4  is a view showing an example of images displayed to a front display provided in the gaming machine. 
         FIG. 5  is a view showing an example of images displayed to a front display provided in the gaming machine. 
         FIG. 6  is a view showing an example of images displayed to a front display provided in the gaming machine. 
         FIG. 7  is a view showing an example of images displayed to a front display provided in the gaming machine. 
         FIG. 8  is a view showing an example of images displayed to a front display provided in the gaming machine. 
         FIG. 9  is a view showing an example of images displayed to a liquid crystal display provided in the station. 
         FIG. 10  is a view showing an example of images displayed to a liquid crystal display provided in the station. 
         FIG. 11  is a view showing an example of images displayed to a liquid crystal display provided in the station. 
         FIG. 12  is a block diagram showing an internal configuration of the gaming machine. 
         FIG. 13  is a block diagram showing an internal configuration of the station in the gaming machine. 
         FIG. 14  is a flowchart showing main processing performed in a main control portion and the station. 
         FIG. 15  is a flowchart showing a procedure of activation processing. 
         FIG. 16A  is a flowchart showing card game processing executed in the station in the gaming machine according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 16B  is a flowchart showing card game processing executed in the station in the gaming machine according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
     
    
    
     DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS 
     An embodiment of the present invention is described based on drawings. 
     In the following embodiment, the case of playing Blackjack is described. First, the rule of Blackjack is described. 
     In Blackjack, a dealer and a single or a plurality of players play a game against each other, using a deck of playing cards (52 cards). Winning or losing of the game is determined based on which score is higher between a total score of cards dealt to the dealer and a total score of cards dealt to the player. However, when the total score of cards exceeds 21, he or she is disqualified. Therefore, the player plays the game for the purpose of gaining a higher possible score insofar as the total score of cards does not exceed 21. In Blackjack, there is a rule as follows as a method for counting scores of cards. Namely, an ace is counted as 1 or 11, a picture card is counted as 10, and each of the other cards with number is counted as its number. 
     Specifically, the game progresses as follows. First, a BET is accepted. Two cards each are then dealt to the dealer and the player having placed the BET. Each player selects any of actions “hit”, “stand”, “split” and “double” to take, upon looking at the cards dealt to him or her. Selecting “hit” indicates requesting for another card. Selecting “stand” indicates not requesting for another card. Selecting “split” indicates splitting the initially dealt two cards in the case that the two cards have the same rank, and playing separate games by supplying a new card to each split card. Selecting “double” indicates doubling the BET amount and requesting for another card. The player&#39;s selecting one of the above four types of actions is hereinafter referred to as a BET selection. When the BET selections by all the players in the game are completed, the dealer hits a card until the total score of the dealer&#39;s cards becomes 17 or more. When the total score of the dealer&#39;s cards becomes 17 or more, the total score of the dealer&#39;s cards is compared with that of the player&#39;s cards to determine winning or losing of the game. When the player wins, the player can newly acquire an amount corresponding to the BET amount. On the other hand, when the player loses, the player loses the amount corresponding to the BET amount. It is to be noted that, when the initially received cards are an ace and a card with the score of 10 (when Blackjack is established), the score of 21 established by the two cards is stronger as a hand than the score of 21 established by three or more cards. Upon establishment of Blackjack by the player&#39;s cards, the player can newly acquire an amount corresponding to half as much again as the BET amount. 
     In the following embodiment, Blackjack is executed in which a normal BET and an additional BET are accepted. Here, the normal BET is a BET placed on winning or losing of Blackjack, and the additional BET is a BET placed on the dealer. 
     When the additional BET is placed on the dealer, the player can receive a game support. 
     Further, the player having a total number of BETs (sum of the normal BETs and the additional BETs) over a unit number of games (five games) being the largest can select a dealer in a next game from a plurality of dealers. 
     Further, when satisfying a condition specified by the dealer, the player can receive an offer of a special payout. Part of the additionally bet game media is cumulatively accumulated as a dealer jackpot (hereinafter also referred to as a dealer JP), and the special payout is offered from the dealer JP. 
     First, processing executed by a main control portion  40  (see  FIG. 12 ) provided in a game machine  1  (see  FIG. 2 ) is described. 
       FIGS. 1A and 1B  are flowcharts each showing card game processing executed in the main control portion provided in the gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
     First, in step S 101  in  FIG. 1A , a CPU  41  (see  FIG. 12 ) provided in the main control portion  40  receives a start signal from any of stations  3  (see  FIG. 2 ). The start signal is a signal that triggers progress of a game of Blackjack in the gaming machine  1 . 
     Next, in step S 102 , the CPU  41  displays, to a front display  21  provided in the gaming machine  1 , a dealer image showing a dealer and an image notifying a specified condition corresponding to the dealer image. 
     In the present embodiment, a plurality of types of dealer images are prepared, and different specified conditions are respectively associated with the dealer images. At the station  3  where the specified condition corresponding to the dealer image displayed to the front display  21  is satisfied, a special payout is offered from a later-described dealer JP. 
     Next, in step S 103 , the CPU  41  receives BET information from the station  3 . The BET information is information on BETs, including information showing whether or not the normal BET and the additional BET have been placed and information showing amounts of the normal BET and the additional BET. Further, the CPU  41  receives personal information (name, and the like) of the player inputted at each station  3  concurrently with the BET information. 
     Next, in step S 104 , the CPU  41  determines whether or not the additional BET has been placed based on the BET information received in step S 103 . 
     When determining that the additional BET has not been placed, the CPU  41  shifts the processing to step S 109 . 
     On the other hand, when determining that the additional BET has been placed, in step S 105 , the CPU  41  cumulatively accumulates into a RAM  42  (see  FIG. 12 ) credits corresponding to 50% of the additionally bet game media as a dealer JP, in association with the dealer image currently displayed to the front display  21 . 
     Next, in step S 106 , the CPU  41  determines a detail of the game support to be provided to the station  3  where the additional BET has been placed. The game support is to provide a state advantageous for the player in the game, and in the present embodiment, data showing a plurality of types of the game support are prepared for each dealer image. Examples of the detail of the game support may include canceling one of the cards dealt to the player and dealing another card instead. 
     In step S 106 , the CPU  41  selects one type out of the plurality of types of details of the game support. 
     The detail of the game support may be determined based on a game history of the player having placed the additional BET. 
     Next, in step S 107 , the CPU  41  transmits a game support instruction signal to the station  3  where the additional BET has been placed. The game support instruction signal is a signal to instruct to execute the game support having the detail determined in step S 106  at a predetermined timing. 
     In the station  3  having received the game support instruction signal, the game support is executed at the predetermined timing. 
     Next, in step S 108 , the CPU  41  executes an effect according to the game support determined in step S 106  at the same timing as the execution of the game support in the station  3 , by means of an image, voice, and light. 
     It is to be noted that the timing (predetermined timing) for performing the game support may be set during a period when processing of and after step S 109  are performed. 
     Next, in step S 109 , the CPU  41  determines two cards each to be dealt to the player and the dealer, out of a deck of playing cards, by means of random numbers. The two cards determined to be dealt to the player in step S 109  are referred to as player&#39;s cards, and the two cards determined to be dealt to the dealer in step S 109  are referred to as dealer&#39;s cards. To the front display  21  provided in the gaming machine  1 , one card is displayed face up and the other card is displayed face down as card images showing the two dealer&#39;s cards. 
     Next, in step S 110 , the CPU  41  transmits to-be-dealt cards information to the station  3 . The to-be-dealt cards information includes information showing types (ranks and suits: Heart, Club, Spade, Diamond) of the cards determined to be dealt to the player and the dealer. In the station  3 , the card images showing the two player&#39;s cards are displayed to a liquid crystal display  10  (see  FIG. 3 ) based on the received to-be-dealt cards information. 
     Next, in step S 111 , the CPU  41  receives selection information from the station  3 . The selection information is information on the BET selection made by the player. 
     Next, in step S 112 , the CPU  41  determines whether or not to have received stand information as the selection information in step S 111 . The stand information is information showing that the player has selected “stand” as the BET selection. 
     When determining not to have received the stand information (step S 112 : NO), the CPU  41  performs processing corresponding to the BET selection made by the player based on the selection information received in step S 111  (step S 113 ). Specifically, upon receipt of information indicating that the player has selected “hit”, the CPU  41  determines one card to be dealt to the player by means of a random number, and transmits information on the card as to-be-dealt card information to the station  3  where the player is playing the game. Upon receipt of information indicating that the player has selected “split”, the CPU  41  splits two cards displayed to the liquid crystal display  10  of the station  3  where the player is playing the game. The CPU  41  then determines one card each to be newly provided to each split card by means of random numbers and transmits information on the determined cards as to-be-dealt cards information to the station  3  where the player is playing the game. Upon receipt of information indicating that the player has selected “double”, the CPU  41  determines one card to be dealt to the player by means of a random number, and transmits information on the card as to-be-dealt card information to the station  3  where the player is playing the game. Upon receipt of the to-be-dealt card information, the card image corresponding to the to-be-dealt card information is displayed to the liquid crystal display  10 . 
     After executing the processing of step S 113 , the CPU  41  returns the processing to step S 111 . 
     In step S 112 , when determining to have received the stand information (step S 112 : YES), the CPU  41  displays two card images showing the dealer&#39;s cards face up to the front display  21  (step S 114 ). 
     Next, in step S 115  in  FIG. 1B , the CPU  41  determines whether or not a total score of the dealt cards is equal to or more than the score of 17. 
     When determining that the total score of the dealer&#39;s cards is less than the score of 17 (step S 115 : NO), the CPU  41  performs hit processing (step S 116 ). The hit processing is processing of adding one card to the dealer&#39;s cards. Specifically, the CPU  41  determines one card by means of a random number and adds the card to the dealer&#39;s cards while displaying the card face up to the front display  21 . After executing the processing of step S 116 , the CPU  41  returns the processing to step S 115 . 
     When determining in step S 115  that the total score of the dealer&#39;s cards is equal to or more than the score of 17 (step S 115 : YES), the CPU  41  executes winning/losing determination processing (step S 117 ). Specifically, the CPU  41  compares the total number of the dealer&#39;s cards with that of the player&#39;s cards, and determines which total score is higher, thereby determining winning or losing of the game. 
     Next, in step S 118 , the CPU  41  transmits information showing winning or losing determined in step S 117  (hereinafter also referred to as “winning/losing information”) to the station  3 . In the station  3 , when the winning/losing information is received, any one of images “Yon won”, “You lost” and “Tie” is displayed to the liquid crystal display  10 , based on the winning/losing information. 
     Next, in step S 119 , the CPU  41  transmits normal BET payout information to the station  3 . The normal BET payout information is information showing an amount of credits (game media) to be paid out with respect to the normal BET. Specifically, the CPU  41  transmits information showing credits in amount twice as large as the amount of the normal BET when the player wins, and transmits information showing credits in the same amount as the amount of the normal BET when the game is tied. Further, when the dealer wins, the CPU  41  transmits information showing that the amount of credits to be offered is 0. 
     Next, in step S 120 , the CPU  41  determines whether or not the station  3  having satisfied the specified condition notified in step S 102  is present, based on the selection information received in step S 111  and a result of the processing in step S 113 . In the present embodiment, the specified condition is the establishment of Blackjack consisting of “Queen of Heart” and “Ace” by player&#39;s cards. 
     It is to be noted that the specified condition is not limited to the above example. It may be a condition regarding the player&#39;s cards, a condition regarding the BET amount, or a condition regarding the number of additional BETs. 
     When determining that the station  3  having satisfied the specified condition is not present, the CPU  41  shifts the processing to step S 123 . 
     On the other hand, when determining that the station  3  having satisfied the specified condition is present, in step S 121 , the CPU  41  transmits payout information on special payout to the station  3  having satisfied the specified condition. The payout information on special payout is information showing an amount of the dealer JP to be offered at the station  3  having satisfied the specified condition. At the station  3  having satisfied the specified condition, coins are paid out in an amount corresponding to 50% of the dealer JP accumulated in association with the dealer image that corresponds to the specified condition. 
     Next, in step S 122 , the CPU  41  subtracts credits in an amount shown by the payout information on special payout transmitted in step S 121  from the credits of the dealer JP stored in the RAM  42 . 
     Next, in step S 123 , the CPU  41  executes processing of counting the number of games. Specifically, the CPU  41  adds 1 to a value of the number of games stored in the RAM  42 , and stores the obtained value in the RAM  42 . 
     Next, in step S 124 , the CPU  41  determines whether or not the number of games counted in step S 123  has reached a predetermined unit number of games (5 games). When determining that the number of games has not reached the predetermined unit number of games, the CPU  41  completes the present subroutine. 
     On the other hand, when determining that the number of games has reached the predetermined unit number of games, in step S 125 , the CPU  41  searches the station  3  where the additional BET has been placed based on the BET information received from the stations  3 . 
     Next, in step S 126 , the CPU  41  calculates the total number of BETs as the sum of the number of normal BETs and the number of additional BETs over the predetermined unit number of games (5 games) for each station where the additional BET has been placed, and compares the measurement of the calculated total numbers. 
     Next, in step S 127 , the CPU  41  transmits a dealer selection instruction signal to the station  3  having the total number of BETs determined to be the largest in step S 126 . The dealer selection instruction signal is a signal to instruct to accept the selection of the dealer. In the station  3  where the dealer selection instruction signal has been received, a screen for accepting the selection of the dealer is displayed. 
     Next, in step S 128 , the CPU  41  receives dealer selection information showing which dealer has been selected from the station  3  where the total number of BETs is the largest. 
     In the next game, a dealer image shown by the dealer selection information received in step S 128  and a specified condition corresponding to the dealer image are displayed to the front display  21 . 
     Next, in step S 129 , the CPU  41  clears the total number of BETs stored in the RAM  42  and the count value of the number of games (sets the number and the value to 0). 
     After executing the processing of step S 129 , the CPU  41  completes the present subroutine. 
     Next, the gaming machine  1  according to the present embodiment is described. 
       FIG. 2  is a perspective view schematically showing an appearance configuration of the gaming machine according to the present embodiment. 
     As shown in  FIG. 2 , the gaming machine  1  basically includes a main monitor  2  and five stations  3  (stations  3   a  to  3   e ). It is to be noted that, although the case of the gaming machine  1  including a plurality of (five) stations  3  in the present embodiment, the gaming machine may include only one station in the present invention. 
     The front display  21  is provided at the central portion of the main monitor  2  to which images showing a dealer and cards are displayed. The front display  21  corresponds to the display of the present invention. Above the main monitor  2 , there are provided: speakers  22  that output music or an effect sound in accordance with progress of a game being executed on the gaming machine  1 ; and LEDs  23  lighted at times of a variety of effects. 
       FIG. 3  is a perspective view schematically showing an appearance configuration of the station in the gaming machine shown in  FIG. 2 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 3 , the later-described liquid crystal display  10  that displays images regarding operations (see  FIGS. 9 to 11 ) and the like is provided at the center of the upper surface of the station  3 . Further, a touch panel  11  for inputting operations for placing a BET and the like are provided on the upper surface of the liquid crystal display  10 . The touch panel  11  corresponds to the input device in the present invention. 
     In front of the liquid crystal display  10  are provided operation buttons  12  for performing a payout operation and an input operation of personal information of the player and a coin insertion slot  13  into which coins or medals are inserted. 
     On the upper right end of the front surface of the station  3 , there is provided a bill insertion slot  14  into which a bill is inserted. Below the bill insertion slot  14  is provided a coin payout exit  15 , from which coins or medals corresponding to the accumulated credits are paid out to the player when the payout operation is performed. 
       FIGS. 4 to 8  are views each showing an example of images displayed to a front display provided in the gaming machine. 
       FIG. 4  shows an example of images displayed to the front display  21  at the start of the game. 
     As shown in  FIG. 4 , a dealer image  101  showing a dealer, a table image  31  showing a table, and a speech balloon image  150  showing what the dealer says are displayed to the front display  21 . 
     At the start of the game, a dealer image selected as a dealer image to be displayed at that time is displayed. A specified condition corresponding to the dealer image is then notified. In  FIG. 4 , the speech balloon image  150  is the image notifying the specified condition, and it is notified that a special payout will be offered when a combination of “Queen of Heart” and “Ace” is established. Simultaneously with a display of the speech balloon image  150 , a voice notifying contents of the specified condition is outputted from the speakers  22 . 
       FIG. 5  is an example of images displayed to the front display  21  during the game. 
     As shown in  FIG. 5 , to the front display  21 , card images  32  showing dealer&#39;s cards are displayed in addition to the dealer image  101  showing the dealer and the table image  31  showing the table. When cards are dealt to the dealer, out of the two card images  32 , one card is displayed face up and the other is displayed face down. When the BET selections by all players in the game are completed, all the card images  32  are displayed face up, as shown in  FIG. 5 . 
       FIG. 6  shows an example of images displayed to the front display  21  when the game support is executed in the station  3  where the additional BET has been placed. 
     When the additional BET is placed at any station  3 , the game support is executed to the player on the station  3  at a predetermined timing. In the example of  FIG. 6 , a speech balloon image  151  is displayed which notifies that the player can cancel one dealt player&#39;s card and hit another card instead. Simultaneously with a display of the speech balloon image  151 , a voice notifying the detail of the game support is also outputted from the speakers  22 . 
     The detail of the game support is not particularly limited, but examples thereof may include: tripling or quadrupling the amount of BET and requesting for another card in the case of playing Blackjack (a variant of the above-mentioned “double”); allowing the player to use initially dealt two cards in another game when those two cards have the same rank; and allowing the player to predict ranks and suits of the dealer&#39;s cards displayed face down by getting the cards slightly flipped. 
     Further, also in a game other than Blackjack, the game support is not limited so long as it provides a game state advantageous for the player by the use of an image and voice. 
     Moreover, a special effect may be performed, such as an effect of outputting a voice of the dealer calling a name of the player on the station  3  where the additional BET has been placed in the case that the additional BET has been placed, or an effect of displaying an image of the dealer turning his or her eyes to the station  3 . 
     The game support and the special effect as described above correspond to the profit in accordance with the dealer image in the present invention. 
       FIG. 7  is an example of images displayed to the front display  21  at the time of selection of the dealer image. 
     As shown in  FIG. 7 , a plurality of dealer images  101  to  106  are displayed to the front display  21 , and below those images, an image  152  is displayed which prompts the player on the station  3 , where the total number of BETs over a unit number of games is the largest, to select the dealer image. Symbol “AAA” in the image  152  shows a name of the player who has acquired the selection of the dealer image. 
     Simultaneously, also to the liquid crystal display  10  in the station  3 , an image prompting the selection of the dealer image is displayed (see  FIG. 11 ). 
     When the dealer image is selected, the image as shown in  FIG. 8  is displayed to the front display  21 . 
     The selected dealer image  106  is displayed in such a manner that the dealer turns his/her eyes to the station  3  where the selection has been made, and a speech balloon image  153  showing words of thanks to the player having made the selection is displayed while a voice expressing the words of thanks is also outputted from the speakers  22 . 
       FIGS. 9 to 11  are views each showing an example of images displayed to the liquid crystal display provided in the station. 
     As shown in  FIG. 9 , on the upper right side of the liquid crystal display  10 , BET selection buttons  81  are provided. The BET selection buttons  81  include four types of buttons: a stand button  81 A, a hit button  81 B, a split button  81 C, and a double button  81 D. 
     The stand button  81 A is a button for inputting an instruction to select “stand” as the BET selection. The hit button  81 B is a button for inputting an instruction to select “hit” as the BET selection. The split button  81 C is a button for inputting an instruction to select “split” as the BET selection. The double button  81 D is a button for inputting an instruction to select “double” as the BET selection. The player operates each button through the touch panel  11  so as to make the BET selection. To the left of the BET selection buttons  81 , card images  82  showing the player&#39;s cards are displayed face up. 
     A BET button display portion  86  is provided under the card images  82 . BET buttons  87  for inputting the number of BETs is displayed in the BET button display portion  86 . The player operates the BET buttons  87  via the touch panel  11 , so as to input the number of normal BETs and the number of additional BETs. 
     To the right of the BET button display portion  86 , a number-of-normal-BETs display portion  88  that displays the number of normal-bet coins is provided.  FIG. 9  shows that 28 coins have been bet. It is to be noted that in the case of inputting a BET of 28 coins, the player may operate the BET button  87  “ 10 ” twice, the BET button  87  “ 5 ” once, and the BET button  87  “ 1 ” three times. 
     To the right of the number-of-normal-BETs display portion  88 , a number-of-additional-BETs display portion  89  that displays the number of additionally bet coins is provided.  FIG. 9  shows that 10 coins have been bet. 
     To the right of the number-of-additional-BETs display portion  89 , a number-of-credits display portion  90  is provided.  FIG. 9  shows that 500 coins have been credited. 
       FIG. 10  shows an example of images displayed to the liquid crystal display  10  when the specified condition corresponding to the dealer image displayed to the front display  21  is satisfied. 
     To the lower right of the card images  82  showing the player&#39;s cards, an image  154  is displayed which notifies that the specified condition (establishment of Blackjack consisting of “Queen of Heart” and “Ace”) has been satisfied and the special payout (dealer JP) will be offered. 
       FIG. 11  shows an example of images displayed in the station  3  where the total number of BETs over the unit number of games is the largest. 
     To the liquid crystal display  10 , an image  155  prompting the selection of the dealer image is displayed. To the upper left of the image  155 , a dealer selection button display portion  91  for selecting the dealer image is displayed. The player selects an alphabet (any of A to F) showing the dealer image in the dealer selection button display portion  91  through the touch panel  11 , so as to select the dealer image to be displayed to the front display  21  in the next game. 
       FIG. 12  is a block diagram showing an internal configuration of the gaming machine shown in  FIG. 2 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 12 , the main control portion  40  in the gaming machine  1  has a microcomputer  45  as the core, which basically includes a CPU  41 , a RAM  42 , a ROM  43 , a timer  95 , and a bus  44  that is for mutually transmitting data thereamong. The main control portion  40  corresponds to the controller in the present invention. 
     The ROM  43  stores a variety of programs for performing processing necessary in controlling the gaming machine  1 , a data table, and the like. The ROM  43  also stores a plurality of dealer image data each showing the dealer. The ROM  43  corresponds to the memory of the present invention. 
     The RAM  42  is a memory that temporarily stores a variety of data calculated in the CPU  41 . 
     The RAM  42  also stores the dealer JP, the count value of the number of games, the calculated total number of BETs, and the like. 
     Moreover, the timer  95  performs time measurement. 
     Furthermore, the CPU  41  is connected, through an I/O interface  46 , to an image processing circuit  47 , a sound circuit  48 , an LED driving circuit  49 , and a communication interface  50 . 
     The image processing circuit  47  is connected with the front display  21  forming the main monitor  2 ; the sound circuit  48  is connected with the speakers  22  forming the main monitor  2 ; and the LED driving circuit  49  is connected with the LEDs  23  forming the main monitor  2 . The communication interface  50  is connected with five stations  3 . 
     The CPU  41  proceeds with games (Blackjack) that progress on the gaming machine  1 , based on game programs (including game programs for Blackjack) stored in the ROM  43  and on a variety of signals received from the stations  3 . Further, based on the game programs, the CPU  41  displays an image to the front display  21 , outputs a sound from the speakers  22 , and lights the LEDs  23 . Moreover, the CPU  41  transmits a variety of signals to the respective stations  3  based on the game programs. 
       FIG. 13  is a block diagram showing an internal configuration of the station in the gaming machine shown in  FIG. 2 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 13 , the station  3  has a microcomputer  55  as the core, which basically includes a CPU  51 , a RAM  52 , a ROM  53 , and a bus  54  that is for mutually transmitting data thereamong. 
     The ROM  53  stores a variety of programs for performing processing necessary in controlling the station  3 , a data table, and the like. Further, the RAM  52  temporarily stores the number of credits currently accumulated in the station  3  and a variety of data calculated in the CPU  51 . 
     Moreover, the CPU  51  is connected, through an I/O interface  56 , to a liquid crystal panel driving circuit  57 , a touch panel driving circuit  58 , a hopper driving circuit  59 , a payout completion signal circuit  60 , an inserted coin detecting signal circuit  67 , a bill detecting signal circuit  64 , an operation signal circuit  66 , and a communication interface  61 . 
     The liquid crystal panel driving circuit  57  is connected with the liquid crystal display  10 , the touch panel driving circuit  58  is connected with the touch panel  11 , the hopper driving circuit  59  is connected with a hopper  62 , the payout completion signal circuit  60  is connected with a coin detecting portion  63 , the inserted coin detecting signal circuit  67  is connected with an inserted coin detecting portion  68 , the bill detecting signal circuit  64  is connected with a bill detecting portion  65 , and the operation signal circuit  66  is connected with the operation buttons  12 . 
     The hopper  62  is provided inside the station  3 , and pays out coins from the coin payout exit  15  based on a control signal outputted from the CPU  51 . 
     The coin detecting portion  63  is provided inside the coin payout exit  15 , and transmits a signal to the CPU  51  when detecting that coins in a predetermined number have been paid out from the coin payout exit  15 . 
     When detecting insertion of coins from the coin insertion slot  13 , the inserted coin detecting portion  68  detects the amount of the coins, and transmits a detecting signal showing the detected amount to the CPU  51 . The detected coins are stored in the RAM  52 , with a predetermined amount as one credit. 
     The bill detecting portion  65  detects an amount of a bill when receiving the bill, and transmits a signal showing the detected amount to the CPU  51 . The detected bill is stored in the RAM  52 , with a predetermined amount as one credit. 
     The operation buttons  12  are buttons for inputting personal information of the player at the start of the game, and performing a payout operation when a payout of coins is determined. 
     Next, processing performed in the main control portion  40  and the station  3  is described. 
       FIG. 14  is a flowchart showing main processing performed in the main control portion and the station. 
     The following main processing is performed in the main control portion  40 . 
     The CPU  41  of the main control portion  40  executes activation processing (step S 500 ). The activation processing performed in step S 500  is described later using  FIG. 12 . After executing the activation processing, the CPU  41  executes card game processing (step S 501 ). The card game processing executed in step S 501  is the processing that has been described using  FIG. 1A  and  FIG. 1B . 
     Meanwhile, the following main processing is performed in the station  3 . 
     The CPU  51  of the station  3  executes activation processing (step S 600 ). The activation processing performed in step S 600  is described later using  FIG. 15 . After executing the activation processing, the CPU  51  executes card game processing (step S 601 ). The card game processing executed in step S 601  is described later using  FIG. 16A  and  FIG. 16B . 
       FIG. 15  is a flowchart showing a procedure of the activation processing. 
     This activation processing is processing performed in the main control portion  40  and the station  3 , as triggered by power-on (see step S 500  and step S 600  in  FIG. 14 ). 
     At power-on, first, the CPU  41  of the main control portion  40  executes a BIOS stored in the ROM  43 , and expands compressed data incorporated in the BIOS into the RAM  42  (step S 1 - 1 ). The CPU  41  then executes the BIOS expanded into the RAM  42 , and diagnoses and initializes a variety of peripheral devices. 
     Specifically, the CPU  41  diagnoses and initializes the main monitor  2  (step S 1 - 2 ). In this processing, the CPU  41  transmits a request signal to the main monitor  2  and determines whether or not to have received a predetermined response signal, and conducts clearance of a predetermined storage region, and the like. 
     Next, the CPU  41  diagnoses and initializes the other peripheral devices connected to the CPU  41  (step S 1 - 3 ). 
     Next, the CPU  41  reads an authentication program stored in the ROM  43 , and also performs processing of storing the read authentication program into the RAM  42  (step S 1 - 4 ). At this time, the CPU  41  obtains a checksum by ADDSUM system (standard checking function) in accordance with the standard BIOS function of the BIOS, and stores the authentication program into the RAM  42  while performing processing of checking whether or not the storage is performed without an error. 
     Next, the CPU  41  reads the card game program from the ROM  43 . In this case, the CPU  41  reads data constituting the card game program by four bytes at a time. Subsequently, the CPU  41  performs authentication for checking and verifying that the read authentication program is authentic (not broken) in accordance with the authentication program stored in the RAM  42  (step S 1 - 5 ). When properly completing this authentication processing, the CPU  41  writes and stores the card game program having been an object to be authenticated (having been authenticated) into the RAM  42  (step S 1 - 6 ). 
     Meanwhile, the CPU  51  of the station  3  first executes a BIOS stored in the ROM  53 , and expands compressed data incorporated in the BIOS into the RAM  52  (step S 2 - 1 ). The CPU  51  then executes the BIOS expanded into the RAM  52  and diagnoses and initializes a variety of peripheral devices. 
     Specifically, the CPU  51  diagnoses and initializes the liquid crystal display  10  (step S 2 - 2 ). In this processing, the CPU  51  transmits a request signal to the liquid crystal panel driving circuit  57 , and determines whether or not to have received a predetermined response signal. 
     Next, the CPU  51  diagnoses and initializes the touch panel  11  (step S 2 - 3 ). In this processing, the CPU  51  transmits a request signal to the touch panel  11 , and determines whether or not to have received a predetermined response signal. 
     Next, the CPU  51  diagnoses and initializes the other peripheral devices connected to the CPU  51  (step S 2 - 4 ). 
     Next, the CPU  51  transmits an initial setting signal to the main control portion  40  (step S 2 - 5 ). The initial setting signal is a signal showing completion of diagnosis and initialization of the variety of peripheral devices in the station  3 . 
     After executing the processing of step S 2 - 5 , the CPU  51  completes the present subroutine. 
     The CPU  41  of the main control portion  40  receives the initial setting signal transmitted by the station  3  in step S 2 - 5  (step S 1 - 7 ). Subsequently, the CPU  41  determines whether or not to have received the initial setting signals from all the stations  3  (step S 1 - 8 ). 
     When determining that the initial setting signal has not been received from some station  3 , the CPU  41  returns the processing to step S 1 - 7 . On the other hand, when determining that the initial setting signals have been received from all the stations  3 , the CPU  41  completes the present subroutine. 
     Next, the card game processing performed in the gaming machine  1  is described. However, since the processing performed in the main control portion  40  has already been described in  FIG. 1A  and  FIG. 1B , only processing performed in the station  3  is described here. 
       FIG. 16A  and  FIG. 16B  are flowcharts each showing card game processing executed in the station in the gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
     First, in step S 201  in  FIG. 16A , when the CPU  51  provided in the station  3  receives a signal indicating detection of a contact from the touch panel  11  or an insertion of coins from the inserted coin detecting portion  68 , the CPU  51  transmits a start signal to the main control portion  40 . Thereby, the processing shown in  FIGS. 1A and 1B  proceed in the main control portion  40 . 
     Next, in step S 202 , the CPU  51  accepts inputs of the normal BET and the additional BET. This allows the player to input the normal BET and the additional BET through the touch panel  11  provided in the station  3 . Further, in step S 202 , the CPU  51  accepts an input of personal information (name, and the like) of the player from the operation buttons  12  concurrently with the input of the BET. 
     It is to be noted that the case of inputting personal information of the player from the operation buttons  12  is described in the present embodiment, but in the present invention, the personal information of the player may be read from a storage medium such as an IC card owned by the player. 
     Next, in step S 203 , the CPU  51  transmits BET information as information on the inputted BET to the main control portion  40 . Further, at the same time, the CPU  51  transmits the inputted personal information of the player to the main control portion  40 . 
     Next, in step S 204 , the CPU  51  determines whether or not to have received the game support instruction signal from the main control portion  40 . 
     When determining not to have received the game support instruction signal, the CPU  51  shifts the processing to step S 206 . 
     On the other hand, when determining to have received the game support instruction signal, in step S 205 , the CPU  51  executes at a predetermined timing an effect according to the detail of the game support based on the received game support instruction signal. The CPU  51  performs the effect according to the game support by displaying an image to the liquid crystal display  10 , and if necessary, the CPU  51  accepts an input from the touch panel  11 . 
     It is to be noted that the timing (predetermined timing) for performing the game support may be set during a period when processing of and after step S 206  are performed. 
     Next, in step S 206 , the CPU  51  receives from the main control portion  40  to-be-dealt cards information showing cards to be dealt to the player. 
     Next, in step S 207 , the CPU  51  displays card images showing two player&#39;s cards to the liquid crystal display  10  based on the to-be-dealt cards information received in step S 206 . 
     Next, in step S 208 , the CPU  51  accepts the BET selection. In accordance with this acceptance, the player makes the BET selection through the touch panel  11 . 
     Next, in step S 209 , the CPU  51  transmits selection information to the main control portion  40 . The selection information is information on the BET selection made by the player in step S 208 . 
     Next, in step S 210 , the CPU  51  determines whether or not to have transmitted stand information in step S 209  as the selection information. The stand information is information showing that the player has selected “stand” as the BET selection. 
     When determining not to have transmitted the stand information (step S 210 : NO), namely, when the player makes the BET selection other than “stand”, the CPU  51  performs processing in accordance with the BET selection made by the player (selection processing) (step S 211 ). Specifically, based on the to-be-dealt cards information transmitted by the main control portion  40  in step S 113 , the CPU  51  displays a card image corresponding to the to-be-dealt cards information to the liquid crystal display  10 . Further, when the player selects “split” or “double” as the BET selection, the CPU  51  performs processing of doubling the BET amount. Namely, the CPU  51  performs processing of subtracting an amount corresponding to the amount of the normal BET inputted in step S 202  from the number of credits stored in the RAM  52 , and adding that amount to the amount of the normal BET. 
     After executing the processing of step S 211 , the CPU  51  returns the processing to step S 208 . 
     When determining to have transmitted the stand information in step S 210  (step S 210 : YES), the CPU  51  receives winning/losing information from the main control portion  40  (step S 212 ). Subsequently, the CPU  51  displays to the liquid crystal display  10  any one of images “You won”, “You lost” and “Tie” for a predetermined period (10 seconds in the present embodiment) based on the received winning/losing information. 
     Next, in step S 213 , the CPU  51  receives normal BET payout information from the main control portion  40 . Upon receipt of the normal BET payout information, the CPU  51  stores credit data based on the normal BET payout information into the RAM  52 . 
     Next, in step S 214 , the CPU  51  pays out credits based on the normal BET payout information received in step S 213 . 
     Next, in step S 215  in  FIG. 16B , the CPU  51  determines whether or not to have received from the main control portion  40  payout information on special payout showing the amount of the dealer JP to be offered at the station  3  having satisfied the specified condition. When determining not to have received the payout information on special payout, the CPU  51  shifts the processing to step S 217 . 
     On the other hand, when determining to have received the payout information on special payout, in step S 216 , the CPU  51  performs an effect according to a payout of the dealer JP (see  FIG. 10 ) while paying out the dealer JP in amount shown by the payout information on special payout. 
     Next, in step S 217 , the CPU  51  determines whether or not to have received a dealer selection instruction signal from the main control portion  40 . When determining not to have received the dealer selection instruction signal, the CPU  51  completes the present subroutine. 
     On the other hand, when determining to have received the dealer selection instruction signal, in step S 218 , the CPU  51  displays a dealer selection screen on the liquid crystal display  10  (see  FIG. 11 ). 
     Next, in step S 219 , the CPU  51  accepts the selection of the dealer image on the displayed dealer selection screen. The player can select the dealer image through the touch panel  11 . 
     Next, in step S 220 , the CPU  51  transmits to the main control portion  40  dealer selection information showing which dealer image has been selected in step S 219 . 
     After executing the processing of step S 220 , the CPU  51  completes the present subroutine. 
     As above described, the gaming machine  1  according to the present embodiment comprises: the front display  21  (display) capable of displaying an image; a plurality of stations  3  each having the touch panel  11  (input device) and being arranged at a position from which the front display  21  is visible to a player playing a game; thermo  43  storing a plurality of types of dealer image data each showing a dealer image; and the main control portion  40  (controller). The main control portion  40  is programmed so as to execute the processing of (a) displaying the dealer image selected from a plurality of types of the dealer images to the front display  21  based on the dealer image data stored in the ROM  43 , (b) accepting a normal BET from the touch panel  11  provided in each of the stations  3 , (c) accepting an additional BET different from the normal BET, from the touch panel  11  provided in each of the stations  3 , (d) offering a normal payout, after executing the game, based on a result of the game and the normal BET, (e) offering a profit in accordance with the dealer image displayed to the front display  21  in the station  3  where the additional BET has been placed, (f) calculating in each of the stations  3  a total number of BETs as a sum of a number of normal BETs and a number of additional BETs over a predetermined unit number of the games, and (g) accepting an input for selecting the dealer image to be displayed to the front display  21  from the touch panel  11  provided in the station  3  where the total number of BETs is the largest as a result of a comparison of the total number of BETs at each of the stations  3  calculated in the processing (f). 
     According to the gaming machine  1 , the player having placed the largest amount of BETs over the unit number of games can select the dealer image to be displayed to the front display  21 . Therefore, it is possible to have the player who wishes to select the dealer image consume many game media. 
     Further, when the additional BET is placed separately from the normal BET, the profit in accordance with the dealer image displayed to the front display  21  at that time is offered to the station  3  where the additional BET has been placed. This can motivate the player to place the additional BET. Consequently, it is possible to have the player consume more game media. 
     As thus described, since the player can play a game against the dealer selected by his or her own choice, or receive a profit from the dealer on whom the player has placed the additional BET, it is possible to have the player emotionally attached to the dealer, so as to make the game more interesting. Further, the player capable of placing a large amount of BET can feel superior to other players. 
     In the present embodiment, the case has been described where the selection of the dealer image can be made in the station  3  where the total number of BETs over a unit number of games is the largest. However, in the present invention, it may be configured to allow the selection of the dealer image at the station  3  where a total number of losses is the largest, the total number of losses being obtained by subtracting a total number of payouts as a total amount of game media offered over a predetermined unit number of games from the total number of BETs. Namely, the player having incurred the largest loss over the unit number of games may be allowed to select the dealer image. 
     Further, in the present embodiment, the case has been described where the game support is executed every time the additional BET is placed. However, in the present invention, the profit may be offered once in every couple of games in which the additional BET has been placed. 
     Further, in the present embodiment, the case of playing Blackjack as the game has been described, but the game in the present invention is not particularly limited so long as it is a game played by a player against a dealer. 
     Although the present invention has been described with reference to embodiments thereof, these embodiments merely illustrate specific examples, not restrict the present invention. The specific structures of respective means and the like can be designed and changed as required. Furthermore, there have been merely described most preferable effects of the present invention, as the effects of the present invention, in the embodiments of the present invention. The effects of the present invention are not limited to those described in the embodiments of the present invention. 
     Further, in the aforementioned detailed description, characteristic portions have been mainly described, for ease of understanding the present invention. The present invention is not limited to the embodiments described in the aforementioned detailed description, but can be also applied to other embodiments over a wider range of applications. Further, the terms and phrases used in the present specification have been used for clearly describing the present invention, not for limiting the interpretation of the present invention. Further, those skilled in the art will easily conceive other structures, systems, methods and the like which are included in the concept of the present invention, from the concept of the present invention described in the present specification. Accordingly, the description of the claims is intended to include equivalent structures that fall within the technical scope of the invention. Further, the abstract aims at enabling engineers and the like who belong to the present technical field but are not familiar with the patent office and public institutions, the patent, law terms and technical terms to immediately understand the technical content and the essence of the present application through brief studies. Accordingly, the abstract is not intended to restrict the scope of the invention which should be evaluated from the description of the claims. It is desirable that literatures and the like which have been already disclosed are sufficiently studied and understood, in order to sufficiently understand the objects of the present invention and the specific effects of the present invention. 
     In the aforementioned detailed description, there has been described processing to be executed by computers. The aforementioned description and expressions have been described for the sake of enabling those skilled in the art to understand the present invention most effectively. In the present specification, each step for deriving a single result should be understood to be self-consistent processing. Further, each step includes transmission, reception, recording and the like of electric or magnetic signals. Although, in the processing at each step, such signals have been expressed as bits, values, symbols, characters, terms, numerical characters and the like, it should be noticed that they have been merely used for convenience of description. Further, although the processing at each step was described using expressions common to human behaviors in some cases, the processes described in the present specification are to be executed by various types of devices, in principle. Further, other structures required for conducting each step will be apparent from the aforementioned description.