Patent Publication Number: US-2009239618-A1

Title: Slot Machine

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application claims priority of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/038,951 filed on Mar. 24, 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 slot machine. 
     2. Description of the Related Art 
     In a conventional slot machine, when a player inserts a game medium, such as a coin and a bill, in an insertion slot of a slot machine and presses a SPIN button, a display provided on a front face of a cabinet displays a plurality of symbols in a scrolling manner. 
     Then, scrolling of each of the symbols automatically stops. As such a slot machine, for example, as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,093,102, a slot machine exists which employs a concept of a winning line. In this concept, in the case where a combination of symbols rearranged on a winning line is a predetermined winning combination, a predetermined number of game media are paid out. 
     In addition, as such a slot machine, for example, as disclosed in each of U.S. Pat. No. 6,604,999 and U.S. Patent Publication No. 2002/0065124, a slot machine exists which provides two types of payouts, including a payout determined by a combination of symbols rearranged on a winning line and a payout determined by a number of displayed scatter symbols. 
     With the aforementioned slot machine of a related art, however, players are allowed to have expectations only for random payout based on a combination of plural types of symbols that have been randomly arranged in the display device. Accordingly, a need exists for the advent of a slot machine which can offer new entertainability. 
     The present invention has been made in view of the above-described circumstance. It is an object of the present invention to provide a novel slot machine by enhancing entertainability associated with rearrangement of the symbols. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     A first aspect of the present invention is a slot machine including: a display device having a symbol display region for displaying plural types of symbols; a memory for storing data relating to a plurality of display images used for displaying a remaining number of frames to arrange symbols displayed on the display region, in a predetermined combination on a winning line; and a controller for controlling the display device and the memory. The controller is programmed to: (a) execute a basic game; (b) rearrange by displaying in a scrolling manner, the plural types of symbols in the symbol display region during the basic game; (c) detect the remaining number of frames to rearrange the symbols making up a winning combination on the winning line at the time of the rearrangement of the itemized (b); (d) award a payout in the case where the symbols displayed on the symbol display region are arranged in the predetermined combination on the winning line; (e) read out of the memory, the data relating to the display image corresponding to the remaining number of frames detected in the itemized (c), in the case where the symbols displayed on the symbol display region are not arranged in the predetermined combination on the winning line; and (f) display on a predetermined display region, the remaining number of frames to arrange the symbols displayed on the display region, in the predetermined combination on the winning line, based on the read data relating to the display image. 
     According to the first aspect, in the case where the symbols does not form the predetermined combination on the winning line, the display image corresponding to the remaining number of frames is displayed. For example, a payout is to be awarded on condition that a combination of “WILD-WILD-WILD” is formed upon rearrangement of the symbols. In this case, when a combination of “WILD-WILD-ANY” is formed, i.e., when rotation of the reels is stopped with the last symbol “WILD” positioned behind by two frames, the display image of “two more frames to win WILD prize” is displayed. Therefore, the slot machine can be improved in its entertainability associated with symbol rearrangement. 
     A second aspect of the present invention is a slot machine constituted as set forth below. In the first aspect, the controller, in the itemized (e), reads out of the memory, the data relating to the display image corresponding to the remaining number of frames detected in the itemized (c), in the case where the combination is a specific combination from among the plural types of combinations, and then executes the itemized (f). 
     According to the second aspect, in the case where the symbols form the predetermined combination on the winning line, the display image corresponding to the remaining number of frames is displayed. For example, in the case where a combination of “WILD-WILD-ANY” is formed upon rearrangement of the symbols, the display image corresponding to the remaining number of frames is displayed. Therefore, the slot machine can be improved in its entertainability associated with symbol rearrangement. 
     A third aspect of the present invention is a slot machine constituted as set forth below. In the first or second aspect, the slot machine further includes an input device for inputting a user ID. The controller is programmed to: (g) output based on the user ID input through the input device, a control signal for making a computer on a network authenticate the user ID; and (h) receive from the computer on the network, a process signal corresponding to the control signal; and the controller executes the processes itemized (c), (e), and (f) based on an authentication result of the user ID in accordance with the received process signal. 
     According to the third aspect, in the case where the symbols form the predetermined combination on the winning line, the display image corresponding to the remaining number of frames is displayed based on the authentication result of the input user ID. Therefore, the slot machine can be improved in its entertainability associated with symbol rearrangement. 
     A fourth aspect of the present invention is a slot machine including: a display device having a symbol display region for displaying plural types of symbols; a memory for storing data relating to a plurality of display images used for displaying a remaining number of frames to arrange symbols displayed on the display region, in a predetermined combination on a winning line; and a controller for controlling the display device and the memory. The controller is programmed to: (a) execute a basic game; (b) rearrange by displaying in a scrolling manner, the plural types of symbols in the symbol display region during the basic game; (c) detect the remaining number of frames to rearrange the symbols making up a winning combination on the winning line at the time of the rearrangement of the itemized (b); (d) award a payout in the case where the symbols displayed on the symbol display region are arranged in the predetermined combination on the winning line; (e) read out of the memory, the data relating to the display image corresponding to the remaining number of frames detected in the itemized (c), in the case where the symbols displayed on the symbol display region are arranged in a specific combination from among plural types of combinations; and (f) display on a predetermined display region, the remaining number of frames to arrange the symbols displayed on the display region, in the predetermined combination on the winning line, based on the read data relating to the display image. 
     According to the fourth aspect, in the case where the symbols form the predetermined combination on the winning line, the display image corresponding to the remaining number of frames is displayed. For example, in the case where a combination of “WILD-WILD-ANY” is formed upon rearrangement of the symbols, the display image corresponding to the remaining number of frames is displayed. Therefore, the slot machine can be improved in its entertainability associated with symbol rearrangement 
     A fifth aspect of the present invention is a slot machine constituted as set forth below. In the fourth aspect, the slot machine further includes an input device for inputting a user ID. The controller is programmed to: (g) output based on the user ID input through the input device, a control signal for making a computer on a network authenticate the user ID; and (h) receive from the computer on the network, a process signal corresponding to the control signal. The controller executes the processes itemized (c), (e), and (f) based on an authentication result of the user ID in accordance with the received process signal. 
     According to the fifth aspect, in the case where the symbols form the predetermined combination on the winning line, the display image corresponding to the remaining number of frames is displayed based on the authentication result of the input user ID. Therefore, the slot machine can be improved in its entertainability associated with symbol rearrangement. 
     A sixth aspect of the present invention is a slot machine including: a display device having a symbol display region for displaying plural types of symbols; a memory for storing data relating to a plurality of display images used for displaying a remaining number of frames to arrange symbols displayed on the display region, in a predetermined combination on a winning line; a input device for inputting a user ID; and a controller for controlling the display device, the memory, and the input device. The controller is programmed to: (a) output based on the user ID input through the input device, a control signal for making a computer on a network authenticate the user ID; and (b) receive from the computer on the network, a process signal corresponding to the control signal; (c) execute a basic game; (d) rearrange by displaying in a scrolling manner, the plural types of symbols in the symbol display region during the basic game; (e) detect the remaining number of frames to rearrange the symbols making up a winning combination on the winning line, based on an authentication result of the user ID in accordance with the received process signal at the time of the rearrangement of the itemized (d); (f) award a payout in the case where the symbols displayed on the symbol display region are arranged in the predetermined combination on the winning line; (g) read out of the memory, the data relating to the display image corresponding to the remaining number of frames detected in the itemized (e) based on the authentication result of the user ID in accordance with the received process signal, in the case where the symbols displayed on the symbol display region are arranged in a specific combination from among the plural types of combinations; and (h) display on a predetermined display region, the remaining number of frames to arrange the symbols displayed on the display region, in the predetermined combination on the winning line, based on the read data relating to the display image, based on the authentication result of the user ID in accordance with the received process signal. 
     According to the sixth aspect, in the case where the symbols form the predetermined combination on the winning line, the display image corresponding to the remaining number of frames is displayed based on the authentication result of the input user ID. For example, a payout is to be awarded on condition that a combination of “WILD-WILD-WILD” is formed upon rearrangement of the symbols. In this case, when a combination of “WILD-WILD-ANY” is formed, i.e., when rotation of the reels is stopped with the last symbol “WILD” positioned behind by two frames, the display image of “two more frames to win WILD prize” is displayed. Therefore, the slot machine can be improved in its entertainability associated with symbol rearrangement 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  is a view schematically showing symbol rearrangement according to a first embodiment; 
         FIG. 2  is a perspective view schematically showing a slot machine according to the first embodiment; 
         FIG. 3  is a perspective view schematically showing reels according to the first embodiment; 
         FIG. 4  is a view showing an internal construction of the slot machine shown in  FIG. 2 ; 
         FIG. 5  is a view showing an internal construction of the reels shown in  FIG. 4 ; 
         FIG. 6  is a view showing one example of symbols arranged on the reels according to the first embodiment; 
         FIG. 7  is a view showing a correspondence relationship between each of various symbols and payouts; 
         FIG. 8  is a view showing one example of a data table of display images according to the first embodiment; 
         FIG. 9A  is a view showing an exemplary image displayed in the slot machine shown in  FIG. 2 ; 
         FIG. 9B  is a view showing an exemplary image displayed in the slot machine shown in  FIG. 2 ; 
         FIG. 10A  is a view showing an exemplary image displayed in the slot machine shown in  FIG. 2 ; 
         FIG. 10B  is a view showing an exemplary image displayed in the slot machine shown in  FIG. 2 ; 
         FIG. 11  is a flowchart showing a subroutine of the main process; 
         FIG. 12  is a flowchart showing a subroutine of a game execution process according to the first embodiment; 
         FIG. 13  is a flowchart showing a subroutine of symbol rearrangement process according to the first embodiment; 
         FIG. 14  is a flowchart showing a subroutine of a free game execution process according to the first embodiment; 
         FIG. 15  is a flowchart showing a subroutine of a jackpot bonus game execution process according to the first embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 16A  is a view showing an exemplary image displayed in the slot machine shown in  FIG. 2  according to a second embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 16B  is a view showing an exemplary image displayed in the slot machine shown in  FIG. 2  according to the second embodiment; and 
         FIG. 17  is a flowchart showing a subroutine of a symbol rearrangement process according to the second embodiment. 
     
    
    
     DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
     First, a slot machine  10  according to a first embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Here, the slot machine according to the first embodiment described below is a so-called hybrid type slot machine, which has a transparent liquid crystal panel allocated in front of a plurality of mechanical reels supported in a rotatable manner, and executes a game by displaying images of various symbols drawn on an outer peripheral surface of the mechanical reels through the transparent liquid crystal panel. 
       FIG. 1  is a view showing one example of rearranged symbols according to the first embodiment. The slot machine  10  according to the present invention executes any one of three types of gaming modes including a basic game, a free game, and a progressive bonus game. The basic game is executed upon consuming a gaming value corresponding to the amount bet by a player. The free game is executed without consuming a gaming value. The progressive bonus game is executed when a jackpot value reaches a predetermined progressive value. While the slot machine  10  is of a stand-alone type, which is not connected to a network, the present invention is also applicable to a networked slot machine. 
     As shown in  FIG. 1 , in the symbol display area  28 , six basic lines BL are set in the column and row directions. In the embodiments of the present invention, the basic line shall mean a winning line other than a cross line. Furthermore, two cross lines CL are set in directions that obliquely cross the symbol display region  28 . The eight winning lines in the embodiments of the present invention contain the basic lines BL and the cross lines CL. 
     In the first embodiment of the present invention, any combination of symbols “WILD”  121 , “7”  122 , “3Bar”  123 , “2Bar”  124 , “1Bar”  125 , and “blank”  126  is rearranged in the symbol display region  28 . A payout is awarded in the case where a combination of rearranged symbols is a predetermined one on the winning line. 
     As shown in  FIG. 1 , any combination of symbols “WILD”  121 , “7”  122 , “3Bar”  123 , “2Bar”  124 , “1Bar”  125 , and “blank”  126  is rearranged in the symbol display region  28 . Furthermore, the payout is awarded in the case where symbols displayed on the symbol display region  28  are arranged in a predetermined combination on the winning line. In the case where the combination is not a predetermined one, the remaining number of frames to form the predetermined combination is displayed. In this case, a combination of “WILD-WILD-blank” is rearranged on the winning line of the basic line BL, in which the rearranged symbols do not form the predetermined combination. Therefore, a remaining frame number display image  90   a  of “two more frames to win WILD prize” is displayed, which indicates that a reel needs scrolling down by two more frames to form a combination of “WILD-WILD-WILD”. 
       FIG. 2  is a view schematically depicting a frame format of an appearance of the slot machine according to the first embodiment. The gaming media used in the slot machine  10  include coins, bills, or electronic value information equivalent thereto. In the present invention, however, the gaming media are not limitative thereto in particular, and can include medals, tokens, electric money, and tickets, for example. The above tickets are not limitative in particular, and can include barcode-attached tickets or the like, as described later, for example. 
     The slot machine  10  is provided with a cabinet  11 , a top box  12  installed on an upper side of the cabinet  11 , and a main door  13  provided on a front surface of the cabinet  11 . 
     The lower image display panel  16  serving as a display device is provided in front of the main door  13 . The lower image display panel  16  is provided with a liquid crystal panel which displays various types of information or effect images relating to a game during the game. 
     At a center of the lower image display panel  16 , the symbol display region  28  for displaying symbols is provided. In the symbol display region  28 , three reels  102   a  to  102   c  are rotatably provided, as shown in  FIG. 3 . A symbol line made up of the symbols “WILD”  121 , “7”  122 , “3Bar”  123 , “2Bar”  124 , and “1Bar”  125  is drawn on the outer peripheral surface of each of the reels  102   a  to  102   c.  When rotation of the reels  102   a  to  102   c  stops, any combination of symbols “WILD”  121 , “7”  122 , “3Bar”  123 , “2Bar”  124 , “1Bar”  125 , and “blank”  126  is rearranged in the symbol display region  28 . 
     The lower image display panel  16  is set with the winning lines containing the six basic lines BL and two cross lines CL. The six basic lines run in column and row directions of the symbol display region  28 . The two cross lines run in an oblique direction across the symbol display region  28 . The basic lines BL and the cross lines CL as winning lines define a combination of symbols. 
     A credit amount display unit  31  of the lower image display panel  16  displays the number of coins credited by way of an image. A payout amount display unit  32  displays by way of an image the number of coins to be paid when the predetermined combination of symbols are rearranged on the winning line. 
     Provided on a lower side of the lower image display panel  16  are a control panel  20  having a plurality of buttons  23  to  27  through which command regarding the process of the game will be input by a player, a coin receiving slot  21  for receiving coins into the cabinet  11 , and a bill validator  22 . 
     On the control panel  20 , a start button  23 , a change button  24 , a cashout button  25 , a 1-BET button  26 , and a max-BET button  27  are provided. The start button  23  is intended for entering a command for starting the game. The change button  24  is intended for use in asking an attendant of the gaming facility for change. The cashout button  25  is intended for entering a command for paying the credited coins to a coin tray  18  through a coin payout exit  19 . 
     The 1-BET button  26  is intended for entering a command for betting one coin among the credited coins on the game. The max-BET button  27  is intended for entering a command for betting on the game, the maximum number (50 in this embodiment) of coins that can be bet per game among the credited coins. 
     The bill validator  22  validates whether or not a bill is legitimate and accepts a legitimate bill into the cabinet  11 . The bill validator  22  may be configured so that a barcode-attached ticket  39  described later is readable thereby. Provided on a lower front surface of the main door  13 , that is, at a lower part of the control panel  20 , is a berry glass  34  on which characters of the slot machine  10  and the like are depicted. 
     On a front surface of the top box  12 , an upper image display panel  33  is provided. The upper image display panel  33  has a liquid crystal panel, which displays images for introducing the game contents or explaining game rules, for example. 
     Also, on the top box  12 , a lamp  30  and a speaker  29  are provided. On a lower side of the upper image display panel  33 , a ticket printer  35 , a card reader  36 , a data display  37 , and a key pad  38  are provided. The ticket printer  35  prints on a ticket a barcode having encoded thereon data such as data and time, and the identification number of the slot machine  10 . Further, this printer outputs the printed ticket as a barcode-attached ticket  39 . A player causes another slot machine to read the bar-code-attached tickets  39 , allowing the slot machine to perform games, or alternatively, allowing the exchange of bar-code-attached tickets  39  with bills or the like at a predetermined site of a game facility (for example, at the casher in a casino). 
     The card reader  36  reads data from and write data into a smart card. The smart card is to be owned by the player, which stores data for identifying the player or data regarding the log of games executed by the player, for example. The smart chard may store data corresponding to coins, bills, or a credit. As an alternative of a smart card, a magnetic stripe card may be employed. The data display  37  is made up of a fluorescent display and the like, and displays the data read by the card reader or the data input by the player through the key pad  38 , for example. The key pad  38  inputs data and commands regarding the ticket issuance or the like. 
       FIG. 4  is a block diagram depicting the internal construction of the slot machine shown in  FIG. 2 . A gaming board  50  includes: a CPU (Central Processing Unit)  51 , a ROM (Read-only Memory)  55  and a boot ROM  52  interconnected by an internal bus; a card slot  53 S corresponding to a memory card  53 ; and an IC socket  54 S corresponding to a GAL (Generic Array Logic)  54 . 
     A memory card  53  is composed of a non-volatile memory, such as CompactFlash (registered trademark), and stores a game program. The game programs include a symbol selection program. The aforementioned symbol selection program is intended for determining the symbols to be rearranged in the symbol display region  28 . The symbol selection program includes symbol weighing data corresponding to each of plural types of payout ratios (for example, 80%, 84%, and 88%). The symbol weighing data is indicative of the correspondence relationship between a code number of each of symbols (see  FIG. 6 ) and one or more random number values which come under a predetermined numerical range (0 to 256), with respect to each of the reels  102   a  to  102   c.  The payout ratio is determined according to the payout-ratio setting data output from the GAL  54 . The symbols to be stopped and displayed are determined depending upon the symbol weighing data corresponding to this payout ratio. 
     Also, the card slot  53 S is configured to allow the memory card  53  to be inserted thereinto or ejected therefrom, and is connected to a motherboard  40  through an IDE pass. Accordingly, the memory card  53  can be ejected from the card slot  53 S, other game programs and other game system programs can then be written into the memory card  53 , and further, the memory card  53  can be inserted into the card slot  53 S, thereby allowing the player to change the types and contents of games executed in the slot machine  10 . The game program includes programs concerning a game progress. Furthermore, the game program includes image data or sound data to be output during the game. Furthermore, the game program includes image data or sound data to be output during the game. The image data include, for example, image data indicative of the symbol matrix. 
     The GAL  54  is a type of a PLD having a fixed OR array structure. The GAL  54  includes plural input ports and plural output ports. Where predetermined data is input to the input port, the GAL  54  outputs data corresponding to the aforementioned data from the output port. The data output from this output port is equivalent to the aforementioned payout-ratio setting data. Also, the IC socket  54 S is configured to allow the GAL  54  to be inserted thereinto or ejected therefrom, and is connected to a motherboard  40  through PCI bus. Accordingly, the GAL can be replaced with the GAL  54  to change the payout-ratio setting data. 
     The CPU  51 , the ROM  55 , and the boot ROM  52  interconnected through the internal bus are connected to the motherboard  40  through the PCI bus. The PCI bus serves to transmit signals between the mother board  40  and the gaming board  50  and supply power from the mother board  40  to the gaming board  50 . 
     The motherboard  40  is constructed using a general-purpose motherboard commercially available (a printed circuit board on which essential parts of a personal computer are mounted) and includes: a main CPU  41 , a ROM (Read Only Memory)  42 ; a RAM (Random Access Memory)  43 ; and a communication interface  44 . The main CPU  41  functions as a processor for controlling a display device according to the embodiment of the present invention. 
     The ROM  42  is made up of a memory device such as a flash memory and stores thereon a program such as BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) executed by the main CPU  41 , and permanent data. When the BIOS is executed by the main CPU  41 , processing of initializing predetermined peripheral devices is carried out and processing of capturing game programs and game system programs stored in the memory card  53  through the gaming board  50  is started. In the present invention, the contents of the ROM  42  may be rewritable or not. 
     The RAM  43  stores data and a program used when the main CPU  41  is activated. The RAM  43  can also store game programs. The RAM  43  further stores data concerning the credit amount, the number of coin-in or coin-out for one game, and the like. 
     Both a main body PCB (Printed Circuit Board)  60  and a door PCB  80 , which will be described later, are connected to the motherboard  40  by USB. A power supply unit  45  is also connected to the motherboard  40 . 
     Equipment and devices, which generate input signals to be input to the main CPU  41 , and equipment and devices, operations of which are controlled by a control signal output from the main CPU  41 , are connected to the body PCB  60  and the door PCB  80 . The main CPU  41  executes the game programs stored in RAM  43 , based upon an input signal that was input to the main CPU  41 , thereby performing predetermined computational processing. Then, this CPU  41  stores results thereof into RAM  43 ; and transmits control signals to equipment and devices as control processing relative to the equipment and devices. 
     A lamp  30 , a reel controller  72 , a hopper  66 , a coin detection section  67 , a graphic board  68 , a speaker  29 , a touch panel  69 , a bill validator  22 , a ticket printer  35 , a card reader  36 , a key switch  38 S and a data display  37 , are connected to the body PCB 60 . The lamp  30  is lit up in a predetermined pattern, based upon a control signal output from the main CPU  41 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 5 , a sub CPU  61  included in the reel controller  72  controls rotation and stop of the reels  102   a  to  102   c.  The sub CPU  61  is connected to a motor driving circuit  62  having an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array)  63  and a driver  64 . The FPGA  63  is an electronic circuit such as a programmable LSI, and functions as a control circuit of a stepping motor  70 . The driver  64  functions as an amplifier circuit for a pulse input to the stepping motors  70 . The motor driving circuit  62  is connected to stepping motors  70   a  to  70 c for rotating the reels  102   a  to  102   c,  respectively. The stepping motors  70  are stepping motors of one-two phase excitation mode. 
     The sub CPU  61  is connected to an index detection circuit  65  and a positional change detection circuit  71 . The index detection circuit  65  detects positions (indices described later) of the rotating reels  102   a  to  102   c,  and further, can detect loss of synchronization of these reels  102   a  to  102   c.    
     The positional change detection circuit  71  detects change in positions where the reels  102   a  to  102   c  are stopped after stop of rotation thereof. For example, the positional change detection circuit  71  detects change in positions where the reels  102   a  to  102   c  are stopped, in the case where a player forcibly changes the positions which actually do not result in a winning combination, to the positions corresponding to a winning combination. The positional change detection circuit  71  is constituted so as to detect change in the stop positions of the reels  102   a  to  102   c  by detecting, for example, fins (not shown) mounted at predetermined intervals to an inner part of the reels  102   a  to  102   c.    
     The hopper  66  is installed in the cabinet  11 . This hopper pays out a predetermined number of coins from a coin payout exit  19  to a coin tray  18 , based upon a control signal output from the main CPU  41 . A coin detection section  67  is installed inside the coin payout exit  19 . This detection section outputs an input signal to the main CPU  41  at the time of detecting that a predetermined number of coins have been paid out from the coin payout exit  19 . 
     The graphic board  68  performs control, based upon a control signal output from the main CPU  41 , images to be displayed on the upper image display panel  33  and the lower image display panel  16 . The credit amount display section  31  (see  FIG. 2 ) on the lower image display panel  16  displays the number of credits stored in the RAM 43 . Further, the payout amount display section  32  (see  FIG. 2 ) on the lower image display panel  16  displays the number of coins to be paid out. The graphic board  68  is equipped with: a VDP (Video Display Processor), which generates image data based upon a control signal output from the main CPU  41 ; and a video RAM, which temporarily stores image data generated by the VDP or the like. The image data used in generating image data with VDP is contained in the game program read from the memory card  53  and stored in the RAM  43 . 
     The bill validator  22  validates whether or not a bill is legitimate and accepts a legitimate bill into the cabinet  11 . The bill validator  22 , upon accepting a legitimate bill, outputs an input signal to the main CPU  41  based on the bill amount. The main CPU  41  stores in the RAM  43  the credit amount corresponding to the bill amount transmitted by the input signal. 
     Based on a control signal output from the main CPU  41 , the ticket printer  35  prints on a ticket a barcode having encoded thereon data such as the credit amount, data and time, and the identification number of the slot machine  10  stored in the RAM  43 . Further, this printer outputs the printed ticket as a barcode-attached ticket  39 . The card reader  36  transmits to the main CPU  41 , the data read from the smart card, and writes the read data onto the smart card, based upon a control signal from the main CPU  41 . The key switch  38 S is provided on the key pad  38 , and outputs a predetermined input signal to the main CPU  41  when a player operates the key pad  38 . The data display  37  displays, based upon a control signal output from the main CPU  41 , the data read by the card reader  36  and the data input by a player through the key pad  38 . 
     The control panel  20 , a reverter  21 S, a coin counter  21 C, and a cold cathode tube  81  are connected to the door PCB  80 . The control panel  20  is provided with: a start switch  23 S corresponding to the start button  23 ; a change switch  24 S corresponding to the change button  24 ; a cashout switch  25 S corresponding to the cashout button  25 ; a 1-BET switch  26 S corresponding to the 1-BET button  26 ; and the MAX-BET switch  27 S corresponding to the MAX-BET button  27 . When the player operates the buttons  23  to  27 , the corresponding switches  23 S to  27 S output input signals to the main CPU  41 , respectively. 
     The coin counter  21 C is provided inside the coin receiving slot  21 , and validates whether or not a legitimate coin is inserted by a player into the coin receiving slot  21 . Those other than the legitimate coins are discharged from the coin payout exit  19 . The coin counter  21 C outputs an input signal to the main CPU  41  when a legitimate coin is detected. 
     The reverter  21 S operates based on a control signal output from the main CPU  41  and distributes coins recognized as being legitimate by the coin counter  21 C into a cash box (not shown) or the hopper  66  which is arranged in the slot machine  10 . Specifically, when the hopper  66  is filled with coins, the reverter  21 S distributes legitimate coins into the hopper  21 S. On the other hand, when the hopper  66  is not filled with coins, legitimate coins are distributed into the hopper  66 . A cold cathode tube  81  functions as a backlight installed on a rear face side of each of the lower image display panel  16  and the upper image display panel  33 , and is lit up based on a control signal output from the main CPU  41 . 
       FIG. 6  is a view showing one example of symbols arranged on the reels according to the first embodiment. As shown in  FIG. 6 , a symbol line made up of the  21  symbols in plural types that are arranged on the outer peripheral surface of each of the reels  102   a  to  102   c.  The symbols are each assigned with a code number and are stored as a data table in the ROM  42  (see  FIG. 4 ). The symbol line made up of the symbols “WILD”  121 , “7”  122 , “3Bar”  123 , “2Bar”  124 , and “1Bar”  125  is drawn on the outer peripheral surface of each of the reels  102   a  to  102   c.  The reels  102   a  to  102   c  are rotatably driven in a manner such that the symbol lines are shifted in a direction of an arrow in  FIG. 6 . 
       FIG. 7  is a view showing a correspondence relationship between each of various symbols and payouts. As shown in  FIG. 6 , where a predetermined symbol is rearranged on a winning line on which the player has bet, payout is determined based on a winning combination. The payout is determined in the case where symbols form any of winning combinations “WILD-WILD-WILD”, “7-7-7”, “3Bar-3Bar-3Bar”, and “2Bar-2Bar-2Bar”, “1Bar-1Bar-1Bar” on any of the basic lines BL and the cross lines CL as the winning lines set in the symbol display region  28 . In the case of rearrangement of a combination of symbols “WILD-WILD-“WILD” on the winning line, the payout of “500” is obtained to thereby shift the game to the bonus game. The bonus game is offered after execution of the basic game or the free game. The bonus game is generally favorable to the player. 
       FIG. 8  is a view showing one example of a data table of display images according to the first embodiment. This data table of display images is stored in the ROM  42  and is used to display the remaining number of frames to arrange the symbols displayed on the symbol display region  28  in the predetermined combination on the winning line. As shown in  FIG. 8 , in the data table of display images, display image data is determined correspondingly to arrangement of the symbols displayed on the symbol display region  28 . With respect to arrangement of the symbols displayed on the symbol display region  28 , the display image data is determined based on a combination of the predetermined symbols arranged on the reels  102   a,    102   b,  and code numbers (see  FIG. 6 ) from 01 to 21, which are respectively assigned to the symbols arranged on the reel  102   c.  For example, rearrangement corresponding to a combination of “WILD-WILD-18” is such a case that a combination of “WILD-WILD-7” is displayed on the symbol display region  28 , in which “7” is a symbol corresponding to the code number “18” arranged on the reel  102   c.    
       FIGS. 9A and 9B  are views each showing an exemplary image displayed in the slot machine shown in  FIG. 2 , according to the first embodiment. As shown in  FIG. 9A , the lower image display panel  16  is made up of a display region  92 , an information display section  93 , an effect image display section  94 , and the like. The display area section  92  is for displaying a symbol display region  28 . In addition, the information display section  93  is arranged above the display area section  92 . This display section is made up of a credit amount display section  93   a,  a BET amount display section  93   b,  a character information display portion  93   c,  a PAID amount display section  93   d,  and a charge display section  93   e.    
     The number of coins presently credited is displayed at the credit amount display section  93   a  while the number of coins bet in one game is displayed at the BET amount display section  93   b.  The character information indicative of a current status of the game is displayed at the character information display section  93   c.  The characters of “PLAYNOW” are displayed during the play of the game, whereas the characters of “GAMEOVER” are displayed during the intervals between the plays of the game. The number of coins that has been successfully obtained in one game is displayed at the PAID amount display section  93   d,  whereas a conversion value of the credit amount based on a predetermined charge is displayed at the charge display section. At the effect image display section  94 , effect images in accordance with a type of the present slot game are displayed. 
     Any combination of the symbols “WILD”  121 , “7”  122 , “3Bar”  123 , “2Bar”  124 , “1Bar”  125 , and “blank”  126  is rearranged in the symbol display region  28  displayed on the lower image display panel  14 . In the case where the rearranged symbols form the predetermined combination on the winning line, the payout is awarded. 
     In this case, any combination of the symbols “WILD”  121 , “7”  122 , “3Bar”  123 , “2Bar”  124 , “1Bar”  125 , and “blank”  126  is rearranged in the symbol display region  28 . In the case where the symbols displayed on the symbol display region  28  are arranged in the predetermined combination on the winning line, the payout is awarded. In the case where the combination is not a predetermined one, the remaining number of frames to form the predetermined combination is displayed. In this case, a combination of “1Bar-WILD-WILD” is rearranged on the winning line of the cross line CL, in which the combination is not a predetermined one. Therefore, the remaining frame number display image  90   a  of “two more frames to win WILD prize” is displayed, which indicates that a reel needs scrolling down by two frames to form a combination of “WILD-WILD-WILD”, and a reel image “WILD”  121   a  indicative of a position of “WILD” and a reel image “2Bar”  124   a  are displayed. 
     As shown in  FIG. 9B , any combination of symbols “WILD”  121 , “7”  122 , “3Bar”  123 , “2Bar”  124 , “1Bar”  125 , and “blank”  126  is rearranged in the symbol display region  28 . Furthermore, in the case where the symbols displayed on the symbol display region  28  are arranged in the predetermined combination on the winning line, the payout is awarded. In the case where the combination is not a predetermined one, the remaining number of frames to form the predetermined combination is displayed. In this case, a combination of “WILD-WILD-2Bar” is rearranged on the winning line of the basic line BL, in which the rearranged symbols do not form the predetermined combination. Therefore, the remaining frame number display image  70   b  of “one more frame to win WILD prize” is displayed, which indicates that the reel needs scrolling down by one frame to form a combination of “WILD-WILD-WILD”, and the reel image “WILD”  121   a  indicative of a position of “WILD” is displayed. 
       FIGS. 10A and 10B  are views each showing an exemplary image displayed in the slot machine shown in  FIG. 2 . As shown in  FIG. 10A , any combination of the symbols “WILD”  121 , “7”  122 , “3Bar”  123 , “2Bar”  124 , “1Bar”  125 , and “blank”  126  is rearranged in the symbol display region  28 . In the case where the symbols displayed on the symbol display region  28  are arranged in the predetermined combination on the winning line, the payout is awarded. In the case where the combination is not a predetermined one, the remaining number of frames to form the predetermined combination is displayed. In this case, a combination of “3Bar-3Bar-3Bar” is rearranged on the cross line CL, in which the rearranged symbols form the predetermined combination. Therefore, the payout is awarded based on the combination of “3Bar-3Ba-3Bar” without displaying the remaining number of frames to form the predetermined combination. 
     As shown in  FIG. 10B , any combination of the symbols “WILD”  121 , “7”  122 , “3Bar”  123 , “2Bar”  124 , “1Bar”  125 , and “blank”  126  is rearranged in the symbol display region  28 . Furthermore, in the case where the symbols displayed on the symbol display region  28  are arranged in the predetermined combination on the winning line, the payout is awarded. In the case where the combination is not a predetermined one, the remaining number of frames to form the predetermined combination is displayed. In this case, a combination of “2Bar-2Bar-1Bar” is rearranged on the cross line CL, in which the rearranged symbols do not form the specific combination such as “WILD-WILD-ANY” or “7-7-ANY”. Therefore, the remaining number of frames to form the predetermined combination is not displayed and the payout is not awarded. 
     Next, a process executed in the slot machine  10  according to the first embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The main CPU  41  reads out and executes a game program, thereby conducting the game. 
       FIG. 11  is a flowchart showing a subroutine of the main process. In the main process, first, when a power switch is turned on (that is, when power is supplied), a motherboard  40  and a gaming board  50  are activated respectively, so that the CPU  51  executes an initial setting process (step S 101 ). In this initial setting process, the main CPU  41  executes the BIOS stored in the ROM  42 , decompresses, in the RAM  43 , compressed data included in the BIOS, executes the BIOS decompressed in the RAM  43 , and performs diagnosis and initialization of each of the peripheral devices. Further, the main CPU  41  writes game programs or the like from the ROM  42  into the RAM  43 , and acquires payout-ratio setting data and country-identification information. The main CPU  41  also performs an authentication process for each program during execution of the initial setting process. 
     Next, the main CPU  41  performs a game execution process described later with reference to  FIG. 12  (step S 102 ). In this game execution process, the main CPU  41  sequentially reads and executes the game programs or the like from the ROM 42 . By performing this game execution process, the slot machine  10  executes the game according to the first embodiment. The game execution process is repeatedly performed while power is supplied to the slot machine  10 . 
       FIG. 12  is a flowchart showing a subroutine of the game execution process invoked and performed at step S 102  of the subroutine shown in  FIG. 11 . First, the main CPU  41  judges whether a coin has been bet or not (step S 201 ). Specifically, the main CPU  41  judges whether or not an input signal has been received, the signal being output from the 1-BET switch  26 S when the 1-BET button  26  is pressed, or alternatively, being output from the MAX-BET switch  27 S when the MAX-BET button  27  is pressed. The main CPU  41  controls the current step to return to the process at step S 201  upon judging that no coin has been bet (step S 201 : NO). 
     On the other hand, the main CPU  41  subtracts the number of bet coins from the credit amount stored in the RAM  43  (step S 202 ) upon judging that a coin has been bet (step S 201 : YES). In the case where the number of bet coins is larger than the credit amount stored in the RAM  43 , the main CPU  41  controls the current step to return to step S 201  without performing the process for subtracting the number of bet coins from the credit amount stored in the RAM  43 . In the case where the number of bet coins exceeds the upper limit (fifty coins in this embodiment) of coins that can be bet in one game, the main CPU  41  controls the process to shift to step S 203  without performing the process for subtracting the number of bet coins from the credit amount stored in the RAM  43 . 
     At step S 203 , the main CPU  41  judges whether or not the start button  23  has been set to ON (step S 203 ). Specifically, the main CPU  41  judges whether or not an input signal has been received, the signal being output from the start switch  23 S when the start button  23  is pushed. The main CPU  41  controls the step to return to step S 201  upon judging that the start button  23  has not been set to ON (step S 203 : NO). Where the start button  23  has not been set to ON (for example, where an instruction has been input to terminate the game without setting the start button  23  to ON), the main CPU  41  cancels acceptance of a subtraction result at step S 202 . 
     On the other hand, when the main CPU  41  judges that the start button  23  has been set to ON (step S 203 : YES), the main CPU  41  carries out symbol rearrangement process which will be described later with reference to  FIG. 13  (step S 204 ). Specifically, the CPU  41  executes the program stored in the RAM  43  and determines the symbols to be rearranged in the symbol display region  28  displayed on the lower image display panel  16 . The symbols are determined from among the symbols, “WILD”  121 , “7”  122 , “3Bar”  123 , “2Bar”  124 , “1Bar”  125 , and “blank”  126 . This determination is based on the symbol weighting data and random numeric values sampled by sampling the random numeric values in a numerical range which comes under a predetermined range of random numeric values. The CPU  41  then rearranges the symbols in the symbol display region  28 . 
     Next, the main CPU  41  judges whether a prize has been established or not (step S 205 ). Specifically, the main CPU  41  judges whether or not the number of symbols of respective types rearranged in the symbol display region  28  is a winning number allowed to award any of payouts. The establishment of a prize shall mean that the symbols displayed on the symbol display region  28  are arranged in the predetermined combination (see  FIG. 7 ). 
     Upon judging that the prize is established (step S 205 : YES), the main CPU  41  then executes a coin-payout process in accordance with the amount of bet and the number of coins set for the winning number (step S 206 ). Where the coins are deposited, the main CPU  41  executes a process for adding the number of paid-out coins to the credit amount stored in the RAM  43 . On the other hand, in the coin-payout process, the main CPU  41  transmits the control signal to the hopper  66  to pay out the predetermined amount of coins. 
     On the other hand, the main CPU  41  judges whether a free game trigger has been established or not (step S 207 ) upon judging that the prize is not established (step S 205 : NO) or executing the process at step S 206 . Specifically, the main CPU  41  executes the program stored in the RAM  43  to sample the random numeric values in a numerical range which comes under a predetermined range of random numeric values, thereby judging whether or not the free game trigger condition has been satisfied based on the sampled random numeric values. Upon judging that the free game trigger is established (step S 207 : YES), the main CPU  41  executes a free game execution process described later with reference to  FIG. 14  (step S 208 ). In this free-game execution process, the main CPU  41  sequentially reads and executes the game programs or the like from the ROM  42  and performs the free-game execution process. 
     On the other hand, upon judging that the free game trigger has not been established (step S 207 : NO), the main CPU 41  judges whether or not a jackpot bonus game trigger has been established (step S 209 ). Specifically, the main CPU  41  executes the program stored in the RAM  43  to sample the random numeric values in a numerical range which comes under a predetermined range of random numeric values, thereby judging whether or not the jackpot bonus game trigger has been established based on the sampled random numeric values. Upon judging that the jackpot bonus game trigger has been established (step S 209 : YES), the main CPU  41  executes a jackpot bonus game execution process described later with reference to  FIG. 15  (step S 210 ). In this jackpot bonus game, the main CPU  41  sequentially reads and executes the game programs or the like from the ROM 42  to execute the jackpot bonus game execution process. 
     The main CPU  41  terminates the game execution process upon judging that the jackpot bonus game trigger has not been established (step S 209 : NO) or when executing the process at step S 208  and step S 210 . 
       FIG. 13  is a flowchart showing a subroutine of the symbol rearrangement process invoked and performed at step S 204  of the subroutine shown in  FIG. 12 . First, the main CPU  41  displays the symbols in a scrolling manner (step S 301 ). Specifically, the main CPU  41  starts rotation of the reels  102   a  to  102   c.  In this case, the six basic lines BL are set in the column and row directions in the symbol display region  28 . Further, the two cross lines CL are set in directions that obliquely cross the symbol display region  28 . 
     Next, the main CPU  41  determines the symbols to be rearranged (step S 302 ). Specifically, with respect to symbols rearranged in the symbol display area  28 , the main CPU  41  executes a program stored in the RAM  43  to sample a random number value from a numerical value range of a predetermined random number value range. On the basis of the sampled random number value and symbol weighing data, from among the symbols “WILD”  121 , “7”  122 , “3Bar”  123 , “2Bar”  124 , “1Bar”  125 , and “blank”  126 , the CPU  41  determines those to be rearranged in the symbol display area  28 . 
     The main CPU  41  then rearranges the symbols (step S 303 ). Specifically, the main CPU  41  stops rotation of the reels  102   a  to  102   c  so as to display, in a stopped state, the symbols determined at step S 302 , thereby rearranging the symbols. 
     Next, the main CPU  41  judges whether or not a combination is a predetermined one (step S 304 ). Specifically, the main CPU  41  judges whether or not the symbols displayed on the symbol display region  28  are arranged in the predetermined combination allowed to award any of payouts. The main CPU  41  terminates the symbol rearrangement process upon judging that the combination is a predetermined one (step S 304 : YES). 
     On the other hand, upon judging that the combination is not a predetermined one (step S 304 : NO), the main CPU  41  detects the remaining number of frames (step S 306 ). Specifically, when the symbols are rearranged in the symbol display region  28 , the main CPU  41  detects the remaining number of frames to rearrange the symbols making up the winning combination on the winning line. 
     Next, the main CPU  41  judges whether or not the combination is a predetermined one (step S 306 ). Specifically, the main CPU  41  judges whether or not any of combinations “WILD-WILD-18”, “WILD-WILD-19”, “WILD-WILD-20”, “WILD-WILD-01”, “WILD-WILD-02”, and “WILD-WILD-03” is formed (see  FIG. 8 ). Upon judging that the combination is not a predetermined one (step S 306 : NO), the main CPU  41  terminates the symbol rearrangement process. 
     On the other hand, upon judging that the combination is a predetermined one (step S 306 : YES), the main CPU  41  reads out the display images (step S 307 ). Specifically, the main CPU  41  reads out of the ROM  42 , the display image data corresponding to the specific combination from among the plural types of display image data used to display the remaining number of frames to arrange the symbols in the predetermined combination, the symbols being displayed on the symbol display region  28 . 
     The main CPU  41  then displays the display image (step S 308 ). Specifically, the main CPU  41  displays the display image data read at step S 307  on the lower image display panel  16 . The main CPU  41  terminates the symbol rearrangement process when terminating this process. 
       FIG.14  is a flowchart showing a subroutine of a free-game execution process invoked and executed at step S 208  of the subroutine shown in  FIG. 12 . First, the main CPU  41  determines a free-game number T as a number of times in executing the free game (step  401 ). Specifically, the main CPU  41  determines the free-game number T in accordance with a program stored in the RAM  43 . 
     Next, the main CPU  41  performs a process for setting the free-game number B=T (step S 402 ). Specifically, the main CPU  41  sets a remaining free-game number B=T in the storage area provided in the RAM  43 , the area for storing the data indicative of the remaining free-game number B as the remaining number of times in executing the free game. A value of T is equal to the free-game number T determined at step S 401 . 
     The main CPU  41  then judges whether or not the start button  23  has been set to ON (step S 403 ). Specifically, the main CPU  41  judges whether or not an input signal has been received, the signal being output from the start switch  23 S when the start button  23  is pushed. The main CPU  41  controls the step to return to step S 403  upon judging that the start button  23  has not been set to ON (step S 403 : NO). 
     Upon judging that the start button  23  has been set to ON (step S 403 : YES), on the other hand, the main CPU  41  performs a process for displaying an effect image (step S 404 ). Specifically, the main CPU  41  displays a free-game-number display images corresponding to the free-game number on the upper image display panel  33 . 
     Next, the main CPU  41  performs a symbol rearrangement process for the free game (step S 405 ). Specifically, the CPU  41  executes the program stored in the RAM  43  and determines the symbols to be rearranged in the symbol display region  28 , from among the symbols “WILD”  121 , “7”  122 , “3Bar”  123 , “2Bar”  124 , “1Bar”  125 , and “blank”  126 . This determination is based on the symbol weighting data and random numeric values sampled by sampling the random numeric values in a numerical range which comes under a predetermined range of random numeric values. The main CPU  41  then rearranges the symbols to be arranged in the symbol display region  28 . 
     Next, the main CPU  41  judges whether or not a jackpot bonus trigger has been established (step S 406 ). Specifically, the main CPU  41  executes the program stored in the RAM  43  to sample the random numeric values in a numerical range which comes under a predetermined range of random numeric values, thereby judging whether or not the jackpot bonus game trigger has been established based on the sampled random numeric values. Upon judging that the jackpot bonus game trigger has been established (step S 406 : NO), the main CPU  41  controls the process to shift to step S 408 . 
     On the other hand, upon judging that the jackpot bonus trigger has been established (step S 406 : YES), the main CPU  41  executes a jackpot bonus game execution process described later with reference to  FIG. 15  (step S 407 ). In this jackpot bonus game, the main CPU  41  sequentially reads and executes the game programs or the like from the ROM 42  to execute the jackpot bonus game execution process. 
     Next, the main CPU  41  judges whether or not a prize has been established (step S 408 ). Specifically, the main CPU  41  judges whether or not the number of symbols of respective types rearranged in the symbol display region  28  is a winning number allowed to award any of payouts. The establishment of a prize shall mean that the symbols displayed on the symbol display region  28  are arranged in the predetermined combination (see  FIG. 7 ). 
     Thereafter, upon judging that the prize has been established (step S 408 : YES), the main CPU  41  performs a coin-payout process for paying out the coins of the number set for the winning number (step S 409 ). Where the coins are deposited, the main CPU  41  executes a process for adding the number of paid-out coins to the credit amount stored in the RAM  43 . On the other hand, in the coin-payout process, the main CPU  41  transmits the control signal to the hopper  66  to pay out the predetermined amount of coins. 
     On the other hand, upon judging that the prize has not been established (step S 408 : NO) or upon executing the processes at step S 407  and step S 409 , the main CPU  41  sets the remaining free-game number B=B−1 (step S 410 ). Specifically, the main CPU  41  sets B=B−1 at a value of the free-game number B stored in the RAM  43 . 
     The main CPU  41  then judges whether or not a value of the remaining free-game number B is equal to zero (step S 411 ). Specifically, the main CPU  41  judges whether or not a value of the remaining game number stored in the RAM 43  is equal to zero. Upon judging that the value of the remaining free-game number B is not zero (step S 411 : NO), the main CPU  41  controls the step to return to step S  403 . 
     On the other hand, upon judging that the value of B is equal to zero (step S 411 : YES), the main CPU  41  terminates the free-game execution process. 
       FIG. 15  is a flowchart showing a subroutine of the jackpot bonus game execution process invoked and performed at step S 210  of the subroutine shown in  FIG. 12  and at step S 407  of the subroutine shown in  FIG. 14 . At first, the main CPU  41  displays a first effect selection image (step S 501 ). Specifically, the main CPU  41  displays the jackpot bonus game display image displaying the start of the jackpot bonus game on the upper image display panel  33 , and a selection screen for determining the types of jackpot bonus games in the display region  92 . 
     Next, the main CPU  41  judges whether or not the symbol is selected (step S 502 ). Specifically, the main CPU  41  judges whether or not the symbol displayed on the selection screen for determining the types of jackpot bonus games is selected via the touch panel  69  or the like. Upon judging that the symbol is not selected (step S 502 : NO), the main CPU  41  controls the current step to return to the process at step S 502 . 
     On the other hand, upon judging that the symbol is selected (step S 502 : YES), the main CPU  41  displays the selected effect image (step S 503 ). Specifically, the main CPU  41  sequentially reads out of the ROM  42 , the effect image corresponding to the symbol selected at step S 502 , and displays the effect image on the display region  92 . 
     Next, the main CPU  41  judges whether or not a “Win” effect is read (step S 503 ). Specifically, the main CPU  41  judges whether or not the effect image read at step S 503  corresponds to the “Win” effect. Upon judging that the read-out image does not correspond to the “Win” effect (step S 504 : NO), the main CPU  41  displays the effect image of “Lose” (step S 505 ). Specifically, the main CPU  41  reads the effect image corresponding to the effect image of “Lose” from the ROM  42 , and displays the effect image on the display region  92 . Next, the main CPU  41  executes a payout process of “Mini” (step S 506 ). Specifically, the main CPU  41  executes a coin-payout process corresponding to a “Mini” payout. Where the coins are deposited, the main CPU  41  executes a process for adding the number of paid-out coins to the credit amount stored in the RAM  43 . On the other hand, in the coin-payout process, the main CPU  41  transmits the control signal to the hopper  66  to pay out the predetermined amount of coins. The main CPU  41  terminates the jackpot bonus game execution process when executing the process at step S 606 . 
     On the other hand, upon judging that the “Win” effect is read (step S 504 : YES), the main CPU  41  displays a second effect selection image (step S 507 ). Specifically, the main CPU  41  displays on the display region  92  a selection screen for determining a type of the jackpot bonus game to be executed next. 
     Next, the main CPU  41  judges whether or not the predetermined symbol has been selected (step S 508 ). Specifically, the main CPU  41  judges whether or not any one of symbols other than the symbol selected at step S 502  is selected through the touch panel  69  or the like. Upon judging that the predetermined symbol is not selected (step S 508 : NO), the main CPU  41  controls the current step to return to the process at step S 508 . 
     On the other hand, upon judging that the predetermined symbol has been selected (step S 508 : YES), the main CPU  41  displays an effect image corresponding to the selected symbol (step S 509 ). Specifically, the main CPU  41  sequentially reads out of the ROM  42  the effect image corresponding to the symbol selected at step S 502 , and displays the effect image on the display region  92 . 
     Next, the main CPU  41  judges whether or not a “Win” effect is read (step S 510 ). Specifically, the main CPU  41  judges whether or not the effect image read at step S 509  corresponds to the “Win” effect. Upon judging that the read-out image does not correspond to the “Win” effect (step S 510 : NO), the main CPU  41  displays the effect image of “Lose” (step S 511 ). Specifically, the main CPU  41  reads the effect image corresponding to the effect image of “Lose” from the ROM  42  and displays the effect image on the display region  92 . Next, the main CPU  41  executes a payout process of “Major” (step S 512 ). Specifically, the main CPU  41  executes a coin-payout process corresponding to a “Major” payout. Where the coins are deposited, the main CPU  41  executes a process for adding the number of paid-out coins to the credit amount stored in the RAM  43 . On the other hand, in the coin-payout process, the main CPU  41  transmits the control signal to the hopper  66  to pay out the predetermined amount of coins. The main CPU  41  terminates the jackpot bonus game execution process when executing the process at step S 512 . 
     On the other hand, upon judging that the read-out image corresponds to the “Win” effect (step S 510 : YES), the main CPU  41  displays the effect image of “Win”. Specifically, the main CPU  41  reads the effect image corresponding to the effect image of “Win” from the ROM  42  and displays the effect image on the display region  92 . Next, the main CPU  41  executes a payout process of “Mega” (step S 514 ). Specifically, the main CPU  41  performs the coin-payout process corresponding to “Mega”. Where the coins are deposited, the main CPU  41  executes a process for adding the number of paid-out coins to the credit amount stored in the RAM  43 . On the other hand, in the coin-payout process, the main CPU  41  transmits the control signal to the hopper  66  to pay out the predetermined amount of coins. The main CPU  41  terminates the jackpot bonus game execution process when executing the process at step S 514 . 
     Next, a slot machine  10  according to a second embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. The slot machine according to the second embodiment below has an appearance, a circuit configuration, and the like that are substantially the same as those of the slot machine  10  according to the first embodiment of the present invention. Thus, a duplicated explanation is omitted hereinafter. In addition, the constituent elements corresponding to those of the slot machine  10  are designated by the same reference numerals and are explained. 
       FIGS. 16A and 16B  are views each showing an exemplary input image displayed in the slot machine shown in  FIG. 2  according to the second embodiment of the present invention. As shown in  FIG. 16A , the symbol display region  28  displays a screen through which a user ID and a password are entered. In this case, the symbol display region  28  displays an input screen  75  for displaying to a user, entry fields for the ID and the password. 
     As shown in  FIG. 16B , any combination of the symbols “WILD”  121 , “7”  122 , “3Bar”  123 , “2Bar”  124 , “1Bar”  125 , and “blank”  126  is rearranged in the symbol display region  28 . In the case where the symbols displayed on the symbol display region  28  are arranged in the predetermined combination on the winning line, the payout is awarded. In the case where the combination is not a predetermined one, on condition that the user input the ID and the password, the remaining number of frames to form the predetermined combination is displayed. In this case, a combination of “WILD-WILD-2Bar” is rearranged on the winning line of the basic line BL, in which the rearranged symbols do not form the predetermined combination. Therefore, a remaining frame number display image  70   b  of “one more frame to win WILD prize” is displayed, which indicates that the reel needs scrolling down by one more frame to form the combination of “WILD-WILD-WILD”. 
       FIG. 17  is a flowchart showing a subroutine of the basic game symbol rearrangement process invoked and performed at step S 204  of the subroutine shown in  FIG. 12 . First, the main CPU  41  displays the symbols in a scrolling manner (step S 601 ). Specifically, the main CPU  41  starts rotation of the reels  102   a  to  102   c.  In this case, the six basic lines BL are set in the column and row directions, in the symbol display region  28 . Further, the two cross lines CL are set in directions that obliquely cross the symbol display region  28 . 
     The main CPU  41  then determines the symbols to be rearranged (step S 602 ). Specifically, with respect to symbols rearranged in the symbol display area  28 , the main CPU  41  executes a program stored in the RAM  43  to sample a random number value from a numerical value range of a predetermined random number value range. On the basis of the sampled random number value and symbol weighing data, from among the symbols, “WILD”  121 , “7”  122 , “3Bar”  123 , “2Bar”  124 , “1Bar”  125 , and “blank”  126 . The CPU  41  determines those to be rearranged in the symbol display area  28 . 
     The main CPU  41  then rearranges the symbols (step S 603 ). Specifically, the main CPU  41  stops rotation of the reels  102   a  to  102   c  so as to display, in a stopped state, the symbols determined at step S 602 , thereby rearranging the symbols. 
     Next, the main CPU  41  judges whether or not the combination is a predetermined one (step S 604 ). Specifically, the main CPU  41  judges whether or not the symbols displayed on the symbol display region  28  are arranged in the predetermined combination allowed to award any of payouts. The main CPU  41  terminates the symbol rearrangement process upon judging that the combination is a predetermined one (step S 604 : YES). 
     On the other hand, upon judging that the combination is not a predetermined one (step S 604 : NO), the main CPU  41  detects the remaining number of frames (step S 605 ). Specifically, the main CPU  41  detects the remaining number of frames to rearrange the symbols making up the winning combination on the winning line. 
     Next, the main CPU  41  judges whether or not the combination is a predetermined one (step S 606 ). Specifically, the main CPU  41  judges whether or not any of combinations “WILD-WILD-18”, “WILD-WILD-19”, “WILD-WILD-20”, “WILD-WILD-01”, “WILD-WILD-02”, and “WILD-WILD-03” is formed (see  FIG. 8 ). Upon judging that the combination is not a predetermined one (step S 606 : NO), the main CPU  41  terminates the symbol rearrangement process. 
     On the other hand, upon judging that the combination is a specific one (step  606 : YES), the main CPU  41  judges whether or not the ID and the password are entered (step S 607 ). Specifically, the main CPU  41  judges whether or not the user has entered the ID and the password, according to the screen displayed on the symbol display region  28 , the screen through which the user enters the user ID and the password. Upon judging that the user has not yet entered the ID and the password (step S 607 : NO), the main CPU  41  terminates the symbol rearrangement process. 
     On the other hand, upon judging that the user has entered the ID and the password (step S 607 ; YES), the main CPU  41  reads out the display image (step S 608 ). Specifically, the main CPU  41  reads the display image data corresponding to the specific combination from among the plural types of display image data used for displaying the remaining number of frames to arrange the symbols in the predetermined combination, the symbols being displayed on the symbol display region  28 . 
     The main CPU  41  then displays the display image (step S 609 ). Specifically, the main CPU  41  displays the display image data read at step S 307  on the lower image display panel  16 . The main CPU  41  terminates the symbol rearrangement process when terminating this process. 
     The second embodiment of the present invention describes a case in which the remaining number of frames to arrange in the predetermined combination on the winning line, the symbols displayed on the symbol display region  28 , on condition that the user enters the ID and the password. However, the present invention is not limitative thereto, and, for example, may be applicable to a structure in which control is exercised over a controller so as to display a probability that the game is shifted to the free game and the jackpot bonus game, in addition to the remaining number of frames, on condition that the user enters the ID and the password. 
     While the embodiment according to the present invention has been described, the description presents only some of the specific examples and is not intended to limit the present invention in any way and specific constructions of each means and the like can be properly changed in terms of design. Moreover, the effects described in the embodiment of the present invention are only the most preferable effects generated from the present invention and the effects to be caused by the present invention is not limitative thereto.