Patent Publication Number: US-2009239612-A1

Title: Gaming Machine And Control Method Thereof

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application claims priority of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/037,873 filed on Mar. 19, 2008. The contents of this application are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     1. Field of the Invention 
     The present invention relates to a gaming machine installed in an amusement place and a control method thereof. 
     2. Description of the Related Art 
     Conventionally, gaming machines have been installed in amusement places such as casinos. These gaming machines are disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,217,189B2, 7,220,180B2, 7,222,857B2, or 7,222,858B2. 
     In a case where a plurality of gaming machines are installed in an amusement place, the gaming machines are occasionally placed to be spaced from each other. Thus, players see side faces and rear faces as well as front faces of the gaming machines. 
     The front faces of the gaming machines are elaborately designed, whereas the side faces and rear faces look bare in general. Thus, it is thought to describe an advertising statement of the amusement place on the side faces and rear face of each of the gaming machines. However, there is a need to describe an advertising statement by painting after filling the already described advertising statement every time a change occurs therewith. This painting requires a lot of time and effort, causing disfigurement. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention has been made in view of the above described circumstance. It is an object of the invention to provide a gaming machine, the appearance of which can be enhanced, and a control method thereof. 
     A first aspect of the present invention is directed to a game machine, including: a cabinet; a liquid crystal display section, which is arranged on one face of the cabinet and in which an image pertinent to a game is displayed; and a platy member, which is detachably mounted to a face other than said one face of the cabinet. 
     According to the abovementioned machine, the liquid crystal display section is arranged on one face of the cabinet (for example, on a front face), and the platy members are detachably mounted to faces other than such one face (for example, side faces and/or a rear face). The liquid crystal display section displays an image pertinent to a game. Therefore, there is no need to mount a platy member on a face on which the liquid crystal display section is arranged. 
     Since the platy members are detachable, an advertising statement of amusement place is described by way of painting on the members after moved from the cabinet, for example, and then, the platy members having the advertising statement described thereon can be mounted to the cabinet. In this case, the side faces and rear face or the like, of the gaming machine, can be efficiently used. Further, since there is no need to directly describe an advertising statement on the gaming machine, the use of the gaming machine in the amusement place can be readily compatible with the work of describing the advertising statement by way of painting. If the advertising statement is changed, it is sufficient if the platy members are removed from the cabinet, and then, replacement platy members are remounted to the cabinet. Thus, there is no need to reapply painting to the gaming machine. Therefore, an appearance of the gaming machine can be enhanced without a need to take a lot of time and effort. Further, the platy members are reusable by removing them from the cabinet of one gaming machine, followed by mounting them to that of another gaming machine. 
     Usage of the platy members is not limitative to the advertising statement of the amusement plate. For example, a bulletin board intended for players to exchange information may be mounted to the cabinet. 
     A second aspect of the present invention is directed to a gaming machine, including: a cabinet; a first liquid crystal display section, which is arranged on one face of the cabinet and in which an image pertinent to a game is displayed; a second liquid crystal display section, which is arranged on a face other than said one face of the cabinet; a memory section, which stores data of an image pertinent to a game; an insertion section in which a recording medium having image data recorded therein is removably inserted; and a processor, which executes processes of: (a) causing the first liquid crystal display section to display an image that is based upon the data stored in the memory section; and (b) causing the second liquid crystal display section to display an image which is based upon the recording medium inserted into the insertion section. 
     According to the abovementioned machine, the first liquid crystal display section is arranged on one face of the cabinet (for example, a front face), and the second liquid crystal display section is arranged on a face other than such one face (for example, side faces and/or a rear face). The first liquid crystal display section displays an image pertinent to a game. Therefore, there is no need to arrange the second liquid crystal display section on the face on which the first liquid crystal display section is arranged. 
     Data of an image pertinent to a game is stored in the memory section, and the processor executes the process (a), whereby the first liquid crystal display section displays the image which is based upon the data stored in the memory section. Since the image displayed on the first liquid crystal display section is pertinent to the game. A player can keep track of the information pertinent to the game (such as the progress of the game or the contents of the game) by visually recognizing the image displayed on the first liquid crystal display section. 
     The recording medium having image data recorded therein is removably inserted into an insertion section. Thus, the processor executes the process (b), whereby the second liquid crystal display section displays the image which is based upon the data recorded in the recording medium inserted into the insertion section. Therefore, for example, where a gaming machine manufacturer provides a recording medium having recorded therein image data used for a manufacturer&#39;s advertisement, and then, inserts this recording medium into the insertion section, the manufacturer&#39;s advertisement is displayed on the second liquid crystal display section. Alternatively, for example, where an employee in the amusement place provides a recording medium having recorded therein image data which is representative of amusement place event information, and then, inserts this recording medium into the insertion section, the second liquid crystal display section displays the amusement place event information. A player, who is not performing a game, can be aware of the manufacturer&#39;s advertisement and amusement place event information or the like by visually recognizing the image displayed on the second liquid crystal display section. 
     In the abovementioned case, the side faces and rear face, etc., of the gaming machine can be efficiently used. Further, since there is no need to directly input the manufacturer&#39;s advertisement and the amusement place event information or the like to the gaming machine, the use of the gaming machine in the amusement place can be readily compatible with the work of recording image data in the recording medium. If the image displayed on the second liquid crystal display section is changed, it is sufficient if the recording medium is changed or the image data recorded in the recording medium is changed. Thus, the image displayed on the second liquid crystal display section can be readily and flexibly changed. Moreover, since there is no need to reapply painting to the gaming machine, the appearance thereof can be enhanced without a need to take a lot of time and effort. Further, the recording medium is reusable by removing it from the insertion section of one gaming machine, followed by inserting it into that of another gaming machine. 
     A third aspect of the present invention is directed to the gaming machine of the second aspect, wherein: the processor further executes a process of (c) judging whether or not a game is performed, and wherein: the process (a) is a process of causing the first and second liquid crystal display sections to display the images which are based upon the data stored in the memory section in a case where it is judged that the game is performed in the process (c). 
     According to the abovementioned machine, a processor executes the processes (a) to (c), whereby, where a game is performed, both of the first and second liquid crystal display sections display the images which are based upon the data stored in a memory section. On the other hand, if no game is performed, the first liquid crystal display section displays the image which is based upon the data stored in the memory section, and then, the second liquid crystal display section displays the image which is based upon the data recorded in the recording medium inserted into the insertion section. 
     A player, who is performing a game, can keep track of information pertinent to a game (for example, the progress of a game which is currently performed) by visually recognizing the image displayed on the first liquid crystal display section. Further, a player, who is not performing a game, can keep track of information pertinent to a game (the progress of a game that is currently performed by another player, for example) by visually recognizing the image displayed on the first or second liquid crystal display section when the game is performed. 
     Further, the player, who is not performing a game, can keep track of information pertinent to a game (for example, the contents of a game) by visually recognizing the image displayed on the first liquid crystal display section when no game is performed. This player can also be aware of the manufacturer&#39;s advertisement and amusement place event information, etc., by visually recognizing the image displayed on the second liquid crystal display section. 
     In the aforementioned case, the images displayed on the first and second liquid crystal display sections, respectively, can be changed according to whether or not a game is performed, so that the images to be provided to the players can be displayed on the liquid crystal display sections, as required. 
     A fourth aspect of the present invention is directed to the gaming machine of the third aspect, wherein: the memory section stores data of a game image, which is indicative of a progress of a game, and data of a demonstration image for explaining contents of the game; the process (a) is a process of causing the first and second liquid crystal display sections to display the images which are based upon the data of the game image stored in the memory section in a case where it is judged that the game is performed in the process (c); and the process (a) is a process of causing the first liquid crystal display section to display the image which is based upon the data of the demonstration image stored in the memory section in a case where it is judged that no game is performed in the process (c). 
     According to the abovementioned machine, the memory section stores: the data of the game image which is indicative of the progress of the game; and the data of the demonstration image for explaining the contents of the game, as the data of the image pertinent to the game. Thus, the processor executes the processes (a) to (c), whereby, where a game is performed, both of the first and second liquid crystal display sections display the images which are based upon the data of the game images stored in the memory section. On the other hand, if no game is performed, the first liquid crystal display section displays the image which is based upon the data of the demonstration image stored in the memory section, and then, the second liquid crystal display section displays the image which is based upon the data recorded in the recording medium inserted into the insertion section. 
     A player, who is performing a game, can keep track of the progress of the game that is currently performed by oneself, by visually recognizing the image displayed on the first liquid crystal display section. On the other hand, a player, who is not performing a game, can keep track of the progress of the game that is currently performed by another player, by visually recognizing the image displayed on the first or second liquid crystal display section when the game is performed. 
     Further, the player, who is not performing a game, can keep track of the contents of the game by visually recognizing the image displayed on the first liquid crystal display section when no game is performed. This player can also be aware of the manufacturer&#39;s advertisement and amusement place event information, etc., by visually recognizing the image displayed on the second liquid crystal display section. 
     In the abovementioned case, the images displayed on the first and second image display sections, respectively, can be changed according to whether or not a game is performed, so that an optimal image to be provided to the players can be displayed as required. 
     A fifth aspect of the present invention is directed to a gaming machine, including: a cabinet; a first liquid crystal display section, which is arranged on one face of the cabinet and in which an image pertinent to a game is displayed; a second liquid crystal display section, which is arranged on a face other than said one face of the cabinet; a memory section, which stores data of an image pertinent to a game; an insertion section into which a recording medium having image data recorded therein is removably inserted; and a processor, which executes processes of: (a) judging whether or not a game is performed; (b) causing the first and second liquid crystal display sections to display images which are based upon data stored in the memory section in a case where it is judged that the game is performed in the process (a); (c) causing the first and second liquid crystal display sections to display the images which are based upon the data stored in the memory section in a case where it is judged that the game is performed in the process (a); and (d) causing the second liquid crystal display section to display the image which is based upon the data recorded in the recording medium inserted into the insertion section in a case where it is judged that no game is performed in the process (a). 
     According to the abovementioned machine, the first liquid crystal display section is arranged on one face of the cabinet (for example, a front face), and the second liquid crystal display section is arranged on a face other than such one face (for example, side faces and/or a rear face). The first liquid crystal display section displays an image pertinent to a game. Therefore, there is no need to arrange the second liquid crystal display section on the face on which the first liquid crystal display section is arranged. 
     Data of an image pertinent to a game is stored in the memory section, and the recording medium, in which image data was recorded, is removably inserted into the insertion section. Thus, the processor executes the processes (a) to (d), whereby, where a game is performed, both of the first and second liquid crystal display sections display the images which are based upon the data stored in the memory section. On the other hand, if no game is performed, the first liquid crystal display section displays the image which is based upon the data stored in the memory section, and the second liquid crystal display section displays the image which is based upon the data recorded in the recording medium inserted into the insertion section. 
     The processor executes the process (d), whereby the second liquid crystal display section displays the image which is based upon the data recorded in the recording medium inserted into the insertion section. Therefore, for example, where a gaming machine manufacturer provides a recording medium having recorded therein data of an image used for the manufacturer&#39;s advertisement, and then, this recording medium is inserted into the insertion section, the second liquid crystal display section displays the manufacturer&#39;s advertisement. Alternatively, where an employee in the amusement place provides a recording medium having recorded therein image data which is representative of amusement place event information, and then, inserts this recording medium into the insertion section, the second liquid crystal display section displays the amusement place event information. 
     A player, who is performing a game, can keep track of information pertinent to a game (for example, the progress of a game that currently performed by oneself) by visually recognizing the image displayed on the first liquid crystal display section. Further, a player, who is not performing a game, can keep track of information pertinent to a game (the progress of a game that is currently performed by another player, for example) by visually recognizing the image displayed on the first or second liquid crystal display section when the game is performed. 
     Further, the player, who is not performing a game, can keep track of information pertinent to a game (contents of a game, for example) by visually recognizing the image displayed on the first liquid crystal display section when the game is not performed. This player can also be aware of manufacturer&#39;s advertisement and amusement place event information, etc., by visually recognizing the image displayed on the second liquid crystal display section. 
     In the aforementioned case, the side faces and rear face, etc., of the gaming machine can be efficiently used. Further, since there is no need to directly input the manufacturer&#39;s advertisement and amusement place event information or the like, the use of the gaming machine in the amusement place can be readily compatible with the work of recording image data in the recording medium. If the image displayed on the second liquid crystal display section is changed, it is sufficient to change a recording medium or change data of the image to be recorded in the recording medium. Thus, the image displayed on the second liquid crystal display section can be readily and flexibly changed. Moreover, since there is no need to reapply painting to the gaming machine, the appearance thereof can be enhanced without a need to take a lot of time and effort. Further, the recording medium is reusable by removing the recording medium from the insertion section of one gaming machine, followed by inserting it to that of another gaming machine. 
     Moreover, the images displayed on the first and second liquid crystal display sections, respectively, can be changed according to whether or not a game is performed, so that the images to be provided to the players can be displayed, as required. 
     A sixth aspect of the present invention is directed to a gaming machine, including: a cabinet; a first liquid crystal display section, which is arranged on one face of the cabinet and on which an image pertinent to a game is displayed; a second liquid crystal display section, which is arranged on a face other than said one face of the cabinet; a memory section, which stores data of a game image indicative of a progress of a game and data of a demonstration image for explaining contents of the game; an insertion section, into which a recording medium having image data recorded therein is removably inserted; and a processor, which executes processes of: (a) judging whether or not a game is performed; (b) causing the first and second liquid crystal display sections to display the images which are based upon the data of the game image stored in the memory section in a case where it is judged that the game is performed in the process (a); (c) causing the first liquid crystal display section to display the image which is based upon the data of the demonstration image stored in the memory section in a case where it is judged that no game is performed in the process (a); and (d) causing the second liquid crystal display section to display the image which is based upon the data recorded in the recording medium inserted into the insertion section in a case where no game is performed in the process (a). 
     According to the abovementioned machine, the first liquid crystal display section is arranged on one face of the cabinet (for example, a front face), and the second liquid crystal display section is arranged on a face other than such one face (for example, side faces and/or a rear face). The first liquid crystal display section displays an image pertinent to a game. Therefore, there is no need to arrange the second liquid crystal display section on the face on which the first liquid crystal display section is arranged. 
     The memory section stores: the data of the game image which is indicative of the progress of the game; and the data of a demonstration image for explaining the contents of the demonstration image for explaining the contents of the game, as the data of the image pertinent to the game. The recording medium, in which the image data was recorded, is removably inserted into the insertion section. Thus, the processor executes the processes (a) to (d), whereby, where the game is performed, both of the first and second liquid crystal display sections display the images which are based upon the data of the game image stored in the memory section. On the other hand, if no game is performed, the first liquid crystal display section displays the image which is based upon the data of the demonstration image stored in the memory section, and the second liquid crystal display section displays the image which is based upon the data recorded in the recording medium inserted into the insertion section. 
     The processor executes the process (d), whereby the second liquid crystal display section displays the image which is based upon the data recorded in the recording medium inserted into the insertion section. Therefore, where a gaming machine manufacturer provides a recording medium having recorded therein data of an image used for the manufacturer&#39;s advertisement, and then, this recording medium is inserted into the insertion section, for example, the second liquid crystal display section displays the manufacturer&#39;s advertisement. Alternatively, where an employee in the amusement place provides a recording medium having recorded therein image data which is representative of amusement place event information, and then, inserts this recording medium into the insertion section, the second liquid crystal display section displays the amusement place event information. 
     A player, who is performing a game, can keep track of the progress of a game that is currently performed by oneself, by visually recognizing the image displayed on the first liquid crystal display section. Further, a player, who is not performing a game, can keep track of the progress of a game that is currently performed by another player, by visually recognizing the image displayed on the first or second liquid crystal display section when the game is performed. 
     Further, the player, who is not performing a game, can keep track of the contents of the game by visually recognizing the image displayed on the first liquid crystal display section when no game is performed. This player can also be aware of the manufacturer&#39;s advertisement and amusement place event information, etc., by visually recognizing the image displayed on the second liquid crystal display section. 
     In the aforementioned case, the side faces and rear face, etc., of the gaming machine can be efficiently used. Further, since there is no need to directly input the manufacturer&#39;s advertisement and amusement place event information or the like, the use of the gaming machine in the amusement place can be readily compatible with the work of recording image data in the recording medium. If the image displayed on the second liquid crystal display section is changed, it is sufficient to change a recording medium or change data of the image to be recorded in the recording medium. Thus, the image displayed on the second liquid crystal display section can be readily and flexibly changed. Moreover, since there is no need to reapply painting to the gaming machine, the appearance thereof can be enhanced without a need to take a lot of time and effort. Further, the recording medium is reusable by removing it from the insertion section of one gaming machine, followed by inserting it into that of another gaming machine. 
     Moreover, the images displayed on the first and second liquid crystal display sections, respectively, can be changed according to whether or not a game is performed, so that optimal images to be provided to the players can be displayed on the liquid crystal display section, as required. 
     A seventh aspect of the present invention is directed to a method of controlling a game machine which includes: a cabinet; a first liquid crystal display section, which is arranged on one face of the cabinet and in which an image pertinent to a game is displayed; a second liquid crystal display section, which is arranged on a face other than said one face of the cabinet; a memory section, which stores data of an image pertinent to a game; and an insertion section in which a recording medium having image data recorded therein is removably inserted, said method comprising the steps of: (a) causing the first liquid crystal display section to display the image which is based upon the data stored in the memory section; and (b) causing the second liquid crystal display section to display the image which is based upon the data recorded in the recording medium inserted into the insertion section. 
     The abovementioned game machine controlling method is capable of controlling the gaming machine of the present invention, for example. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIGS. 1A and 1B  are views showing characteristics of a gaming machine according to one embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 2  is a perspective view showing an appearance of a front side of the gaming machine according to one embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 3  is a perspective view showing an appearance of a rear side of the gaming machine according to one embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 4  is a schematic view showing an exemplary image displayed in a case where a game is performed on a first liquid crystal display panel included in the gaming machine according to one embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 5  is a schematic view showing an exemplary image displayed in a case where a game is performed on a second liquid crystal display panel included in the gaming machine according to one embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 6  is a schematic view showing an exemplary image displayed in a case where no game is performed on the first liquid crystal display panel included in the gaming machine according to one embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 7  is a schematic view showing an exemplary image displayed in a case where no game is performed on the second liquid crystal display panel included in the gaming machine according to one embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 8  is a block diagram depicting a configuration of essential portions in the gaming machine according to one embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 9  is a block diagram depicting a configuration of essential portions on a subsidiary control board included in the gaming machine according to one embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 10  is a flowchart showing procedures for executing game control processing at the gaming machine according to one embodiment of the present invention; and 
         FIGS. 11A and 11B  are flowcharts showing subroutines of procedures for executing game playing processing at the gaming machine according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
     
    
    
     DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
     1. Overview of the Present Invention 
     Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with referring to the drawings.  FIGS. 1A and 1B  are views showing characteristics of a gaming machine according to one embodiment of the present invention. A gaming machine  1  according to the embodiment is installed in an amusement place such as casino. Further, the gaming machine  1  is provided with a cabinet  10 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 1A , a first liquid crystal display panel  18  is arranged on one face of the cabinet  10  (specifically, on a front face). The first liquid crystal display panel  18  functions as a liquid crystal display section which displays an image pertinent to a game. As shown in  FIG. 1B , a second liquid crystal display panel  3  is arranged on a face other than the front face of the cabinet  10  (specifically, on a rear face). The second liquid crystal display panel  3  functions as a second liquid crystal display section. As the result thereof, the appearance of the gaming machine can be enhanced with efficient use of the rear face of the cabinet  10 . As shown in  FIGS. 1A and 1B , platy members  7 ,  7  are detachably mounted to a face other than the front face of the cabinet  10  (specifically, on both of the right and left side faces). At each of the platy members  7 , an advertising statement such as a shop name of the amusement place and amusement place event information is described. As the result thereof, the appearance of the game machine can be enhanced with efficient use of both of the right and left side faces of the cabinet  10 . 
     An image ROM  55  (see  FIG. 9 ) is incorporated in the cabinet  10 , and functions as a memory section for storing data of an image pertinent to a game. In further detail, the image ROM  55  stores data of a game image which is indicative of the progress of the game and data of a demonstration image for explaining the contents of the game. A memory slot  6  is provided on a rear face of the cabinet  10 , and a memory card M is removably inserted into the memory slot  6 . The memory slot  6  functions as an insertion slot into which the memory card M is removably inserted, and the memory card M functions a recording medium in which image data is recorded. In further detail, data of an informational image, which is representative of amusement place event information, is recorded in the memory card M. 
     A main CPU  20  (see  FIG. 8 ) judges whether or not a game is performed at the gaming machine  1 . In a case where the judgment result is affirmative, this CPU causes both of the first and second liquid crystal display panels  18  and  3  to display an image which is based upon data of a game image stored in the image ROM  55 . Alternatively, in a case where the judgment result is negative, the main CPU  20  causes the first liquid crystal display panel  18  to display an image which is based upon data on a demonstration image stored in the image ROM  55 . Further, this CPU causes the second liquid crystal display panel  3  to display an image which is based upon data of an informational image recorded in the memory card M inserted into the memory slot  6 . 
     In the abovementioned case, the images displayed on the first and second liquid crystal display panels  18  and  3 , respectively, can be changed according to whether or not a game is performed. Thus, an optimal image to be provided to a player at the gaming machine  1  can be displayed on each of the liquid crystal display panels  18  and  3 , as required. 
     2. Configuration of the Gaming Machine 
       FIG. 2  is a perspective view showing an appearance of a front side of the gaming machine according to one embodiment of the present invention, like  FIG. 1A .  FIG. 3  is a perspective view showing an appearance of a rear side of the gaming machine according to one embodiment of the present invention, like  FIG. 1B . The gaming machine  1  is installed in an amusement place such as casino. The gaming machine  1  is provided with a cabinet  10  for accommodating electrical or mechanical parts for performing a predetermined game. 
     As shown in  FIG. 2 , a rectangular first liquid crystal display panel  18 , which displays an image pertinent to a game, is arranged at the lower side of the front center of the cabinet  10 . In a case where a player performs a game at the gaming machine  1 , the first liquid crystal display panel  18  displays a game image which is indicative of the progress of a game. On the other hand, if nobody performs a game at the gaming machine  1 , the first liquid crystal display panel  18  displays a demonstration image for explaining the contents of the game. 
     A third liquid crystal display panel  17 , which displays an image pertinent to a game, is arranged at the upper side of the front center of the cabinet  10 . In a case where a player performs a game at the gaming machine  1 , the third liquid crystal display panel  17  displays an effect image for augmenting the game. On the other hand, if nobody performs a game at the gaming machine, the third liquid crystal display panel  17  displays a title image which is indicative of the title of the game. The liquid crystal display panels  17  and  18  display images which are based upon the data stored in the image ROM  55  (see  FIG. 9 ). The third liquid crystal display panel  17  may display a supplement image for supplementing an explanation of the game contents by way of demonstration image, for example, without being limitative to the title image. 
     At the front upper part of the cabinet  10 , speakers  15 ,  15  are placed to be spaced from each other at the right and left sides. Further, a number of decorative lamps  16 ,  16  . . . , are arranged at the front periphery of the cabinet  10 . At the front lower part of the cabinet  10 , an operating consol  100  intended for a player to operate the gaming machine  1  is provided. At the upper face of the operating console  100 , an operating section  120 , which is operated by the player, and a coin insertion slot  13  into which the player inserts a coin, are provided. A coin tray  14  is provided at the lower part of the operating consol  100 . At the operating section  120 , a start button  12  and a variety of other operational buttons such as a BET button and a CASHOUT button are provided. In the gaming machine  1 , coins are employed as gaming media without being limitative thereto. For example, other gaming media such as bills, securities, medals, tokens, electronic money, or tickets may be employed. 
     As shown in  FIG. 3 , a number of decorative lamps  16 ,  16  . . . , are arranged at the rear periphery of the cabinet  10 . Further, a rectangular second liquid crystal display panel  3  is arranged at the rear center of the cabinet  10 . An aspect ratio of a display area of the second liquid crystal display panel  3  is equal to that of a display area of the first liquid crystal display panel  18 . In a case where a player performs a game at the gaming machine  1 , the second liquid crystal display panel  3  displays a game image which is indicative of the progress of the game. This game image is identical to that displayed on the first liquid crystal display panel  18 . Namely, where a game is performed, the second liquid crystal display panel  3  displays an image which is based upon the data stored in the image ROM  55  (see  FIG. 9 ). 
     On the other hand, if nobody performs a game at the gaming machine  1 , the second liquid crystal display panel  3  displays an informational image which is representative of amusement place event information. A memory slot  6  is provided in the vicinity of the second liquid crystal display panel  3 , and a memory card M is removably inserted into the memory slot  6 . Specifically, the memory card M is inserted into the memory slot  6  in the direction indicated by the outline arrow in  FIG. 3 , and the inserted memory card M is removed from the memory slot  6  in a direction opposite to the direction indicated by the outline arrow in  FIG. 3 . In the memory card M, for example, an employee in the amusement place records informational image data with the use of a personal computer which is capable of reading/writing the data contained therein. 
     If no game is performed, the second liquid crystal display panel  3  displays an image which is based upon the data recorded in the memory card M inserted into the memory slot  6 . In order to change an image displayed on the second liquid crystal display panel  3  if no game is performed, therefore, the above memory card M is removed from the memory slot  6 , whereby another memory card M having recorded therein data which is different from those recorded in the above memory card M may be inserted into the memory slot  6 . Namely, an image displayed on the second liquid crystal display panel  3  if no game is performed can be readily and flexibly changed. 
     As described above, there is no need to directly input to the gaming machine  1  the data of an image to be displayed on the second liquid crystal display panel  3  if no game is performed. Thus, the use of the gaming machine  1  in an amusement place can be readily compatible with the work of recording image data included in the memory card. Moreover, since there is no need to repaint the gaming machine  1 , the appearance of the game machine can be enhanced without a need to take a lot of time and effort. Further, the memory card M is reusable by removing it from the memory card  6  of one gaming machine  1 , followed by inserting it into that of another gaming machine  1 . 
     The data recorded in the memory card M is not limitative to the data of an informational image. For example, data of an advertisement image, which is representative of an advertisement of a gaming machine manufacture, may be recorded in the memory card M. In this case, the second liquid crystal display panel  3  displays an advertisement image instead of the informational image. In a case where a game is performed as well, the second liquid crystal display panel  3  may display the image which is based upon the data recorded in the memory card M inserted into the memory slot  6 . 
     As shown in  FIGS. 2 and 3 , two platy members  7 ,  7 , which are formed in the rectangular flat shape, are detachably mounted to both of the right and left side faces of the cabinet  10 . Each of the platy members  7  is acrylic. On the surface of each of the platy members  7 , an advertisement such as a shop name of amusement place and amusement place event information is described by way of painting. Metallic hooks  71 ,  71  are provided on the back faces of the platy members  7 . On the other hand, metallic latch members  72 ,  72  for latching the hooks  71 ,  71  are fixed to side faces of the cabinet  10 . 
     On the surface of each of the platy members  7 , an advertisement is described in a state in which each of the above latch members is removed from the cabinet  10 . The platy members  7 , on which an advertisement is described, are mounted as shown in  FIG. 2  by the hooks  71 ,  71  being latched in the direction indicated by the arrow shown in  FIG. 3 . Namely, the platy members  7  are merely suspended on the upper parts of the right and left side faces of the cabinet  10  with the use of the hooks  71 ,  71  . . . , and the latch members  72 ,  72  . . . , thus facilitating mounting and removal of the platy members  7 ,  7 . 
     A player can keep track of the shop name of the amusement place described on the surface and the pertinent event information by visually recognizing the surface of the platy members  7 ,  7  mounted to the right and left side faces of the cabinet  10 . Namely, it is possible to efficiently use the right and left side faces of the gaming machine  1 , although it has been impossible to do so conventionally. Further, since there is no need to directly describe an advertisement on the gaming machine  1 , the use of the gaming machine  1  in the amusement place can be readily compatible with the work of describing an advertisement. If the advertisement is changed, it is sufficient if the platy members  7  are removed from the cabinet  10 , and then, platy members  7  for replacement, on which a new advertisement was described, are mounted to the cabinet  10 . Thus, there is no need to directly re-describe an advertisement on the gaming machine  1 . Therefore, the appearance of the game machine can be enhanced without a need to take a lot of time and effort. 
     Further, the platy member  7  is reusable by removing it from the cabinet  10  of one gaming machine  1 , followed by inserting it into that of another gaming machine  1 . If the gaming machine  1  is not provided with the second liquid crystal display panel  3 , it may be provided with a platy member detachably mounted to the rear face of the cabinet  10 . Conversely, instead of the platy member  7 , the second liquid crystal display panel  3  may be arranged on the side face of the cabinet  10  as well. Further, a structure for detachably mounting each of the platy members  7  on the side face of the cabinet  10  is not limitative to that using the hooks  71 ,  71  and the latch members  72 ,  72 . For example, each of the platy members  7  and the cabinet  10  may be structured to be screw-tightened. 
       FIG. 4  is a schematic view showing an exemplary image displayed in a case where a game is performed, on the first liquid crystal display panel included in the gaming machine according to one embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 5  is a schematic view showing an exemplary image displayed in a case where a game is performed, on the second liquid crystal display panel included in the gaming machine according to one embodiment of the present invention. A slot game is performed in the gaming machine  1  according to the embodiment. A player takes a seat (not shown) which is arranged at the front side of the operating consol  100  shown in  FIG. 2 . First, the player inserts an appropriate number of coins into a coin insertion slot  13 . Next, the player performs the slot game by operating an operating section  120  while visually recognizing a game image displayed on the first liquid crystal display panel  18  and an effect image displayed on the third liquid crystal display panel  17 . 
     In a case where the slot game is performed, the first liquid crystal display panel  18  displays a game image, as shown in  FIG. 4 . In the game image, three video reels  181 ,  181  . . . , are transversely disposed in parallel to each other. The rotation display direction of each of the video reels  181  is equal to a longitudinal direction. On each of the video reels  181 , plural kinds of symbols are arranged equally in the rotation display direction of the video reel  181 . These symbols serve as patterns which are indicative of a “start”, a “heart”, a “convolute”, a “sun”, a “flash of lightening”, an “umbrella”, and a “triangle”, respectively, and a pattern which is indicative of a number “7”. Further, an activated line  182  is arranged while the line penetrates the three video reels  181 ,  181 , . . . transversely. 
     Although not shown, a game image includes a remaining number of coins stored in the gaming machine  1  and a BET value or the like. Further, although not shown, the game image also includes words and statements which prompt a player to insert a coin, or alternatively, to increase or decrease a BET, until the player operates a start button  12 . In the following description, the remaining number of coins stored in the gaming machine  1  is referred to the number of accumulated coins. 
     In a case where the player operates the start button  12 , three video reels  181 ,  181  . . . , are rotationally displayed longitudinally. Thus, the symbols arranged on the video reels  181  are movably displayed longitudinally. The video reels  181 ,  181  . . . , which are being rotationally displayed, are displayed in a stopped state with a predetermined timing. At this time, one of the symbols that were arranged on the video reels  181  is displayed in a stopped state on an activated line  182 . Therefore, three symbols are finally displayed in a stopped state on the activated line  182 . 
     In the present embodiment, where three symbols of a same kind are displayed in a stopped state on the activated line  182 , it means that a player won a prize. At this time, a predetermined number of coins are paid out from a coin tray  14  shown in  FIG. 2 . On the other hand, where at least one of the three symbols that were displayed in a stopped state on the activated line  182  is different from the remaining symbols in kind, no coin is paid out to the coin tray  14 . 
     If one player performs a game at the gaming machine  1 , another player, who is not performing a game, visually recognizes a game image displayed on the second liquid crystal display panel  3  while standing at the rear side of the cabinet  10  shown in  FIG. 3 . The second liquid crystal display panel  3  displays a game image identical to that displayed on the first liquid crystal display panel  18 , as shown in  FIG. 5 . As the result thereof, another player, who is not performing a game, can be aware of the progress of the game without a need to move to the front side of the cabinet  10 . Of course, another player, who is not performing a game, stands at the front side of the cabinet  10  shown in  FIG. 2 , and can visually recognize an effect image displayed on the third liquid crystal display panel  17 . 
       FIG. 6  is a schematic view showing an exemplary image displayed if no game is performed, on the first liquid crystal display panel included in the gaming machine according to one embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 7  is a schematic view showing an exemplary image displayed if no game is performed, on the second liquid crystal display panel included in the gaming machine according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
     If no slot game is performed, the first liquid crystal display panel  18  displays a demonstration image, as shown in  FIG. 6 . In this demonstration image, the contents of a game are explained to players by way of effect that a character  183  explains the rule of the game, for example. One player, who is not performing a game, stands at the front side of the cabinet  10  shown in  FIG. 2 , and then, visually recognizes the demonstration image (see  FIG. 6 ) displayed on the first liquid crystal display panel  18 . As the result thereof, one player, who is not performing a game, can be aware of the contents of the game. 
     On the other hand, the demonstration image is not displayed on the second liquid crystal display panel  3 . Instead, the second liquid crystal display panel  3  displays an informational image, as shown in  FIG. 7 . This informational image indicates date and time when an event will be held in an amusement place, for example. Another player, who is not performing a game, stands at the rear side of the cabinet  10  shown in  FIG. 3 , and then, visually recognizes the informational image (see  FIG. 7 ) displayed on the second liquid crystal display panel  3 . As the result thereof, another player, who is not performing a game, can be aware of amusement place event information. 
     In the abovementioned case, the side faces and rear face, etc., of the gaming machine can be efficiently used. Moreover, since it is possible to change the images displayed on the liquid crystal display panel, an optimal image to be provided to a player according to a condition can be displayed on each of the liquid crystal display panels. 
     In the meantime, in the present embodiment, a state in which no coin is inserted into the coin insertion slot  13  (in other words, a state in which the number of accumulated coins is 0), is assumed to be a state in which no game is performed. Further, a state in which a time not shorter than a predetermined waiting time elapses without any more coins being inserted into the coin insertion slot  13  after the number of accumulated coins has reached 0, is also assumed to be a state in which no game is performed. 
     A state in which a time not shorter than a predetermined waiting time elapses without operating the operating section  120  after the number of accumulated coins has reached 0, may be assumed to be a state in which no game is performed. Alternatively, a CASHOUT button, which is operated by a player if all of the coins stored in the gaming machine  1  are cashed out, is provided at the operating section  120 , and a duration from operation of the CASHOUT button to coin insertion into the coin insertion slot  13 , may be assumed to be a state in which no game is performed. A state in which no player takes a seat which is arranged at the front side of the operating console  100  may be defined as a state in which no game is performed. In this case, it is necessary to provide a sensor for detecting the presence or absence of a player at the operating console  100  or seat, for example. 
       FIG. 8  is a block diagram depicting a configuration of essential portions of the gaming machine according to one embodiment of the present invention. The gaming machine  1  has a plurality of constituent elements, mainly a main control board  2  including a main microcomputer  200 . 
     In addition to the main microcomputer  200 , the main control board  2  has a random number generating circuit  23 , a sampling circuit  24 , an I/O port  25 , a hopper driving circuit  142 , and a lamp driving circuit  161 . To the I/O port  25 , an operating section  120 , a coin detecting section  131 , a hopper driving circuit  142 , a lamp driving circuit  161 , and a sub-control board  4  are connected. To the sub-control board  4 , speakers  15 ,  15 , liquid crystal display panels  17 ,  18 ,  3 , and an interface  61  of a memory slot  6  are connected. The interface  61  serves as an interface section between the gaming machine  1  and a memory card M, and the memory card M is detachably connected to the interface  61 . A hopper  141  is connected to the hopper driving circuit  142 . Decorative lamps  16 ,  16 , . . . are connected to the lamp driving circuit  161 . 
     The main microcomputer  200  has a main CPU  20 , a ROM  21 , and a RAM  22 . To the main CPU  20 , a ROM  21 , a RAM  22 , the random number generating circuit  23 , the sampling circuit  24 , and the I/O port  25  are connected. The ROM  21  stores computer programs (hereinafter, referred to as “programs”) and permanent data used for executing the programs. 
     The data stored in the ROM  21  is made up of a symbol table, a prize table, and a random number table of the like, for example. The symbol table stores individual real identification information which were assigned to video reels  181  and symbol identification information of the symbols that were arranged on the video reels  181 . 
     The prize table stores prizes awarded to players if specific symbols are displayed in a stopped state on an activated line  182 . Specifically, the prize table stores various types of data so that, if all of the symbols displayed in a stopped state on the activated line  182  are those of a same kind, a prize is awarded to a player and the number of prizes corresponding to different symbols (i.e., the number of coins) becomes different. The random number table stores a random number range and a winning probability (i.e., a probability of awarding a prize to a player) in association with each other by specific symbols for awarding prizes to players. For example, the random number table stores various types of data so that the random number range is narrowed and the winning probability becomes lower, with respect to symbols for awarding a large amount of prizes (i.e., a large number of coins) to players. 
     The main CPU  20  executes a variety of processes in accordance with the programs and data stored in the ROM  21 . Specifically, the main CPU  20  performs entire operation control of the gaming machine  1  by inputting/outputting a signal to/from another constituent element directly or via the I/O port  25 . The random number generating circuit  23  is controlled and actuated by the main CPU  20 , and generates a predetermined range of random numbers. The sampling circuit  24  is controlled and actuated by the main CPU  20 , samples any of the random numbers generated by the random number generating circuit  23 , and inputs the sampled random numbers to the main CPU  20 . 
     The RAM  22  temporarily stores data and programs used when the main CPU  20  is actuated. For example, the RAM  22  stores the random numbers sampled by the sampling circuit  24 , for example. Further, the RAM  22  stores reel identification information of a respective one of the three video reels  181 ,  181 , . . . and symbol identification information of the symbols to be stopped on the activated line  182 . Further, the number of accumulated coins is stored in the RAM  22 . 
     The lamp driving circuit  161  outputs to decorative lamps  16 ,  16 , . . . an effect signals for causing the decorative lamps  16 ,  16 , . . . to perform an illumination effect under the control of the main CPU  20 . The decorative lamps  16 ,  16 , . . . , to which the effect signal has been input, light or blink. The hopper driving circuit  142  drives the hopper  141  under the control of the main CPU  20 . As the result thereof, the hopper  142  pays out a predetermined number of coins to the coin tray  14 . The coin detecting section  131  detects a coin inserted into the coin insertion slot  13 , and then, outputs a coin detection signal, which is indicative of a detection result, to the main CPU  20  via the I/O port  25 . The main CPU  20  computes the number of coins inserted into the coin insertion slot  13 , based upon the input coin detection signal. 
     From the operating section  120 , if a variety of operational buttons including a start button  12  are operated, operational signals corresponding to the operated buttons are output to the main CPU  20  via the I/O port  25 . The main CPU  20  performs equipment operation control of the gaming machine  1  in response to the input operational signals. For example, where the start button  12  is operated, a start signal corresponding to the start button  12  is output to the main CPU  20 . The main CPU  20 , to which the start signal was input, starts displaying the video reels  181  in a rotating state, via the sub-control board  4  described later. 
     The main CPU  20  indirectly controls the speakers  15 ,  15  and the liquid crystal display panels  17 ,  18 ,  3  by controlling a sub CPU  40  (see  FIG. 9 ) included in the sub-control board  4 . As the result thereof, an effect voice or melodious sound, etc., is output from the speakers  15 ,  15 , and a variety of images are displayed on the liquid crystal display panels  17 ,  18 ,  3 . From the main CPU  20  to the sub CPU  40 , therefore, a predetermined control signal is output via the I/O port  25  and an IN port  43  (see  FIG. 9 ). 
       FIG. 9  is a block diagram depicting a configuration of essential portions of a sub-control board included in the gaming machine according to one embodiment of the present invention. In the sub-control board  4 , a control signal is input from the main control board  2 , thereby executing display control of each of the liquid crystal display panels  17 ,  18 ,  3  and voice output control of the speakers  15 ,  15 . The sub-control board  4  is a circuit board which is different from that constituting the main control board  2 , and consists essentially of the sub-microcomputer  400 . 
     First, connection statuses of the constituent elements will be described. A sub-microcomputer  400  has a sub CPU  40 , a program ROM  41 , a work RAM  42 , an IN port  43 , and an OUT port  44 . To the sub CPU  40 , a program ROM  41 , a work RAM  42 , an IN port  43 , and an OUT port  44  are connected. The OUT port  44  is connected to an IN port  53  of an image control circuit  5  described later. The IN port  43  is connected to an I/O port  25  of the main control board  2  (see  FIG. 8 ). 
     In addition to the sub-microcomputer  400 , the sub-control board  4  shown in  FIG. 9  has a sound source IC  151 , a power amplifier  152 , and an image control circuit  5 . The sound source  151  is connected to the sub CPU  40 , and the power amplifier  152  is connected to the sound source IC  151  and the speakers  15 ,  15 . The image control circuit  5  has an image control CPU  150 , an image control program ROM  51 , an image control work RAM  52 , an IN port  53 , an image control IC  54 , an image ROM  55 , and an image RAM  56 . The image control CPU  50  is connected to the image control program ROM  51 , the image control work control IC  52 , the IN port  53 , and the image control IC  54 . 
     The image ROM  55  and the image RAM  56  are connected to the image control IC  54 . In addition, the image control IC  54  is connected to the liquid crystal display panel  17 ,  18 ,  3 . Further, an interface  61  of a memory slot  6  is connected to the image control IC  54 . In other words, to the image control IC  54 , a memory card M inserted into the memory slot  6  is connected via the interface  61 . 
     Next, functions of the constituent elements will be described. The program ROM  41  stores: programs for actuating the sub CPU  40 ; and permanent data used for executing the programs. The sub-control board  4  is not provided with a random number generating circuit and a sampling circuit, whereas a random number sampling program is stored in the program ROM  41 . 
     The sub CPU  40  executes a variety of processes in accordance with the programs and data stored in the program ROM  41 , based upon a control signal input from the main control board  2 . Specifically, the sub CPU  40  inputs/outputs a signal to/from other constituent element directly or via the IN port  43  or OUT port  44 , thereby controlling operations of the constituent elements included in the sub-control board  4 , the speakers  15 ,  15 , liquid crystal display panels  17 ,  18 ,  3  and memory card M connected to the memory card M. In addition, the sub CPU  40  executes a random number sampling program, thereby generating random numbers and sampling the generated random numbers. Further, the sub CPU  40  calculates image display parameters, and then, outputs parameter signals which are indicative of the calculated parameters to the image control CPU  50 . 
     The work RAM  42  temporarily stores data and programs used when the sub CPU  40  is actuated. For example, the work RAM  42  stores the random numbers sampled by the sub CPU  40  performing the random number sampling programs. A sound source IC  151  is controlled by the sub CPU  40 , and outputs an effect voice from the speakers  15 ,  15 . A power amplifier  152  serves as an amplifier for amplifying the voice output from the speakers  15 ,  15 . 
     An image control program ROM  51  of an image control circuit  5  stores image control programs and permanent data used for executing the image control program. The data corresponds to a determination table for determining images to be displayed on the liquid crystal display panels  17 ,  18 ,  3 . The image ROM  55  stores: a set of game image data and demonstration data which are formed using dot data; and a set of title image data and effect image data. These items of data are stored in the image ROM  55  at the time of manufacture of the gaming machine  1 . 
     The image control CPU  50  determines the contents of the images to be displayed on the liquid crystal display panels  17 ,  18 ,  3 , in accordance with the image control programs and data that were stored in the image control program ROM  51 . This determination is based upon parameter signals input from the sub-microcomputer  400 . The image control work RAM  52  temporarily stores data and programs used for actuating the image control CPU  50 . 
     The image control IC  54  reads image data from the image ROM  55  and/or the memory card M in accordance with the contents determined by the image control CPU  50 . Further, this IC forms images which are based upon the read data; and then, outputs them to the liquid crystal display panels  17 ,  18 ,  3 . The resultant incoming images are displayed on the liquid crystal display panels  17 ,  18 ,  3 . The image RAM  56  temporarily stores data used for actuating the image control IC  54 . 
     In this way, the main CPU  20  causes the liquid crystal display panels  17 ,  18 ,  3  to display required images, via the sub CPU  40 , the image control CPU  50 , and the image control IC  54 . Therefore, the burden of the main CPU  20  can be alleviated more significantly than a case in which the main CPU  20  directly controls the liquid crystal display panels  17 ,  18 ,  3  to display the required images. 
     3. Operation of the Gaming Machine 
       FIG. 10  is a flowchart showing procedures for executing game control processing at the gaming machine according to one embodiment of the present invention. If a power switch (not shown) of the gaming machine  1  is turned ON, whereby power is supplied to the gaming machine  1 , a main microcomputer  200  is activated, and then, the main CPU  20  provides initial setting (step  1 . Hereinafter, the word “Step” is abbreviated as S). 
     The main CPU  20  at S 1  executes a BIOS stored in the ROM  21 , and then, decompresses, in the RAM  22 , the compressed data incorporated in the BIOS. Then, this CPU executes the BIOS decompressed in the RAM  22 , and diagnoses and initializes various types of peripherals. The main CPU  20  causes the RAM  22  to store the program and data stored in the ROM  21 . In addition, this CPU controls the decorative lamps  16 ,  16 , . . . via the lamp driving circuit  161 , and then, starts an illumination effect. Further, this CPU controls speakers  15 ,  15  via the sub-control board  4 , and then, starts a voice effect. 
     Next, the main CPU  20  resets the number of stored coins to 0, and then, causes the RAM  22  to store it (S 2 ). At this time, since it is obvious that no game is performed at the gaming machine  1 , the main CPU  20  executes the processing at S 2 , followed by that at S 3 . The main CPU  20  causes the first liquid crystal display panel  18  to display a demonstration image; the second liquid crystal display panel  3  to display an informational image; and the third liquid crystal display panel  17  to display a title image (S 3 ). 
     The main CPU  20  at S 3  outputs to the CPU  40  a control signal which is indicative of the fact that no game is performed at the gaming machine  1 . The sub CPU  40 , to which this control signal was input from the main CPU  20 , causes the first liquid crystal display panel  18  to display a demonstration image and the second liquid crystal display panel  3  to display an informational image. Then, the sub CPU outputs to the image control CPU  50  a parameter signal for causing the third liquid crystal display panel  17  to display the title image. 
     The image control CPU  50 , to which this parameter signal was input, determines the contents of a demonstration image to be actually displayed on the first liquid crystal display panel  18 . Then, this CPU outputs to the image control IC  54  a second determination signal which is indicative of the determined contents. The image control IC  54 , to which the first determination signal was input, reads from the image ROM  55 , data of a demonstration image which is responsive to the input first determination signal. Further, this IC forms an image which is based upon the read data, and then, output it to the first liquid crystal display panel  18 . As the result thereof, the first liquid crystal display panel  18  displays the demonstration image. Similarly, the third liquid crystal display panel  17  displays a title image. 
     In addition, the image control CPU  50  determines the contents of an informational image to be actually displayed on the second liquid crystal display panel  3 , and then, outputs to the image control IC  54  a second determination signal which is indicative of the determined contents. The image control IC  54 , to which the second determination signal was input, reads from the memory card M, data of an informational image which is responsive to the input second determination signal. This IC forms an image which is based upon the read data; and then, outputs it to the second liquid crystal display panel  3 . As the result thereof, the second liquid crystal display panel  3  displays the informational image. 
     Where the processing at S 3  is executed, until the processing at S 16  described later is executed, the first liquid crystal display panel  18  continuously displays the demonstration image; the second liquid crystal display panel  2  continuously displays the informational image; and the third liquid crystal display panel  17  continuously displays the title image. 
     Next, the main CPU  20  invokes a subroutine of a game playing operation (see  FIGS. 11A and 11B ) and executes the routine (S 4 ). After the completion of the processing at S 4 , the main CPU  20  judges whether or not a power switch is turned OFF (S 5 ). If the power switch is still left to be ON (NO at S 5 ), this CPU repeatedly executes the processing at S 4 . If the power switch is turned OFF (YES at S 5 ), the main CPU  20  controls constituent elements of the gaming machine  1 , terminates various types of operations (such as illumination and voice effects and image display), and then, terminates game control processing. 
       FIGS. 11A and 11B  are flowcharts showing a subroutine of procedures for executing game playing processing at the gaming machine according to one embodiment of the present invention. The main CPU  20  judges whether or not the number of accumulated coins stored in the RAM  22  is 0 (S 11 ). Where the judgment result is affirmative (YES at S 11 ), the main CPU  20  judges whether or not to clock an elapsed time after the number of accumulated coins have reached 0 (S 12 ). If it is negative (NO at S 12 ), this CPU accepts coin insertion into the coin insertion slot  13  (S 13 ). For the elapsed time after the number of accumulated coins has reached 0, clocking is started at S 24  described later. 
     Next, the main CPU  20  judges whether or not a coin detection signal is input from a coin detecting section  131  (S 14 ). If the judgment result is negative (NO at S 14 ), the routine reverts to S 13  at which coin insertion into the coin insertion slot  13  is continuously accepted (S 13 ). 
     If a coin detection signal is input from the coin detecting section  131  (YES at S 14 ), the main CPU  20  computes the number of coins inserted into the coin insertion slot  13 . Then, this CPU causes the RAM  22  to store the computation result as the number of accumulated coins (S 15 ). Namely, the number of accumulated coins is 1 or more, because a player desiring to start a game inserted a coin into the coin insertion slot  13 . At this time, since it is obvious that a game is performed at the gaming machine  1 , the main CPU  20  executes the processing at S 15 , followed by that at S 16 . The main CPU  20  causes both of the first and second liquid crystal panels  18  and  3  to display game images, and causes the third liquid crystal display panel  17  to display an effect image (S 16 ). Then, this CPU controls the routine to proceed to S 17 . 
     The main CPU  20  at S 16  outputs to the sub CPU  40  a control signal which is indicative of the fact that a game is performed at the gaming machine  1 . The sub CPU  40 , to which this control signal was input from the main CPU  20 , causes both of the first and second liquid crystal display panels  18  and  3  to display a game image. Then, this sub CPU outputs to the image control CPU  50  a parameter signal for causing the third liquid crystal display panel  17  to display an effect image. 
     The image control CPU  50 , to which this parameter signal was input, determines the contents of a game image to be actually displayed on the first liquid crystal display panel  18 . Then, this CPU outputs to the image control IC  54  a determination signal which is indicative of the determined contents. The image control IC  54 , to which the determination signal was input, reads from the image ROM  55 , data of the game image which is responsive to the input determination signal. Also, this IC forms images, based upon the read data, and then, outputs them to both of the first and second liquid crystal display panels  18  and  3 . As the result thereof, the first and second liquid crystal display panels  18  and  3  display the same game images, respectively. Similarly, the third liquid crystal display panel  17  displays an effect image. 
     Where the processing at S 16  is executed, until the processing at S 27  described later is executed, the first and second liquid crystal display panels  3  continuously display the game images, and then, the third liquid crystal display panel  17  continuously display the effect image. 
     After the completion of the processing at S 16  or if one or more accumulated coins are stored in the RAM  22  (NO at S 11 ), the main CPU  20  accepts getting ready to start a game (S 17 ). Where the processing at S 17  is executed, a player is ready to start a game by performing coin insertion into the coin insertion slot  13  and operation of the operating section  120  (for example, increasing or decreasing BET by operating a BET button). After that, the player operates a start button  12 . 
     Next, the main CPU  20  judges whether or not a coin detection signal is input from the coin detecting section  131  (S 18 ). Where the coin detection signal is input (YES at S 18 ), the main CPU  20  computes the number of coins inserted into the coin insertion slot  13 , based upon the coin detection signal input from the coin detecting section  131 . Then, this CPU adds the computation result to the number of accumulated coins, and then, causes the RAM  22  to store the added number (S 19 ). Although not shown, further, the main CPU  20  causes the RAM  22  to store a value of BET increased or decreased by operating the operating section  120 . 
     After the completion of the processing at S 19  or if a coin detection signal is not input (NO at S 18 ), the main CPU  20  judges whether or not a start signal is input from the operating section  120  (S 20 ). The judgment at S 20  is made as to whether or not the start button  12  accepts an operation. If no start signal is input (NO at S 20 ), the main CPU  20  controls the routine to revert to S 17 , and then, continuously accepts getting ready to start a game. 
     Where the start signal is input from the operating section  120  (YES at S 20 ), i.e., where the start button  12  accepts operation, the main CPU  20  subtracts a value of BET from the number of accumulated coins stored in the RAM  22 , thereby computing the number of accumulated coins (S 21 ), followed by performing a slot game (S 22 ). 
     At S 22 , the main CPU  20  randomly determines symbols in correspondence with video reels  181 . The symbols determined herein are those to be stopped on an activated line  182 . In order to determine the symbols, further, the main CPU  20  refers to a symbol table and a random number table or the like stored in the ROM  21 , and then, uses the random numbers generated by the random number generating circuit  23  and sampled by the sampling circuit  24 . The RAM  22  temporarily stores symbol identification information of the determined symbols in association with the reel identification information of the video reels  181 . 
     Next, the main CPU  20  causes the video reels  181  to start displaying in a rotating state. While the video reels  181  are displayed in a rotating state, the main CPU  20  judges whether or not there occurs a timing of displaying the video reels  181  in a stopped state. Otherwise, the main CPU  20  continues rotational display of the video reels  181 . For at least one of the video reels  181 , if there occurs a timing of displaying such one reel in a stopped state, the main CPU  20  displays this video reel  181  in a stopped state while the symbols already determined as to any of the video reels  181  to be stopped are positioned on the activated line  182 . 
     If all of the three video reels  181 ,  181  . . . , were thus stopped, the main CPU  20  judges whether or not a winning prize is established. Thus, the main CPU  20  judges whether or not the symbols displayed in a stopped state on the activated line  182  are specific symbols with referring to the symbol and prize tables that were stored in the ROM  21  and the two items of reel identification information and symbol identification information that were stored in the RAM  22 . If a winning prize is established, i.e., if specific symbols are displayed in a stopped state on the activated line  182 , the main CPU  20  controls the hopper  141  via the hopper driving circuit  142 , and then, pays out a predetermined number of coins. If not, the main CPU  20  does not pay out a coin. 
     After the completion of the processing at S 22 , the main CPU  20  judges whether or not the number of accumulated coins stored in the RAM  22  is 0 (S 23 ). If one or more coins are accumulated (NO at S 23 ), this CPU terminates game playing processing, and then, reverts to the former routine. On the other hand, if the number of accumulated coins stored in the RAM  22  is 0 (YES at S 23 ), the main CPU  20  starts clocking of an elapsed time after the number of accumulated coins has reached 0 (S 24 ). Then, this CPU terminates game playing processing, and then, reverts to the former routine. Even if the processing reverts to the former routine, if it is judged to be NO at S 5 , the subroutine of the game playing processing is invoked again, and then, is executed. Here, the elapsed time after the number of accumulated coins has reached 0 may be clocked using a timer (not shown). This clocking may be performed by counting the number of clocks input from a clock generator (not shown) to the main CPU  20 . 
     Where the elapsed time after the number of accumulated coins has reached 0 is in clocking (YES at S 12 ), the main CPU  20  judges that the clocked elapsed time exceeds a predetermined waiting time (S 25 ). If not (NO at S 25 ), this CPU reverts to S 13  at which coin insertion into the coin insertion slot  13  is accepted. 
     Where the clocked elapsed time exceeds the predetermined waiting time (YES at S 25 ), the main CPU  20  terminates clocking of the elapsed time (S 26 ). Then, like S 3 , this CPU causes the first liquid crystal display panel  18  to display a demonstration image; the second liquid crystal display panel  3  to display an informational image; and the third liquid crystal display panel  17  to display a title image (S 27 ). Further, the main CPU  20  terminates the game playing processing, and then, reverts to the former routine. 
     Even if the processing reverts to the former routine, where it is judged to be NO at S 5 , the subroutine is invoked again, and then, is executed. Where the processing at S 27  is executed, until the processing at S 16  is re-executed, the first liquid crystal display panel  18  continuously displays the demonstration image; the second liquid crystal display panel  3  continuously displays the informational image; and the third liquid crystal display panel  17  continuously displays the title image. 
     4. Others 
     The configuration of the gaming machine of the present invention is not limitative to that of the gaming machine  1  of the present embodiment, and various modifications can occur without departing from the spirit of the invention. For example, the usage of the platy members  7 ,  7  is not limitative to announcement of amusement place event information. As the platy members  7 ,  7 , for example, a bulletin board intended for players to exchange information may be mounted to the cabinet  10 . Further, the gaming machine  1  may be provided with a DVD drive into which a DVD is inserted, without being limitative to the slot memory  6  into which the memory card M is inserted.