Patent Publication Number: US-2007123354-A1

Title: Gaming machine with security function

Description:
FIELD OF THE INVENTION  
      The present invention relates to a game machine.  
     RELATED ART  
      In a first aspect of the background art, conventionally, in game machines for commercial use, not only game machines which perform games separately, but also those commonly referred to as multi-player game machines, are known. In recent years, there has been a horse-racing game machine as such a multi-player game machine. A multi-player game machine such as this includes, for example, a main game machine body to which a large main display part is provided and a plurality of terminal devices to which sub-display parts which are attached to the main game machine body are provided (for example, see Patent Reference 1).  
      In this multi-player game machine, race horses and the odds thereof are shown in the main display part and the sub display part Each player selects an arbitrary race horse from the race horses shown and bets with medals. Subsequently, a horse race is performed by these race horses in the main display part, and according to the results, each player is paid medals based on the predetermined odds.  
      In addition, the gaming history of the player can be stored in a memory device, such as a card. Furthermore, continuous playing is made possible through enjoyment of a training process, by training race horses and jockeys during the game and storing the data thereof in a card, and therefore, a new form of enjoyment is provided.  
      Furthermore, the card can be used as a prepaid card by purchasing gaming rights by paying a predetermined amount of money and storing this as credit. This is not limited to multi-player games and applies to ordinary game machines as well.  
      Patent Reference 1: Japanese Potent Application Laid-Open Publication Heisei 10-314450  
      In a second aspect of the background art, conventionally, multi-player-type game machines for commercial use, in which numerous players participate, commonly referred to as multi-player game machines, are known. There has been, for example, a horse-racing game machine as such a multi-player game machine. A multiple player game machine such as this includes a main game machine body to which a large main display part is provided and a plurality of terminal devices to which sub-display parts are provided.  
      These plural terminal devices include seats, respectively, which seat the players and face the main display part. In this terminal device, each player sits in the seat and performs various operations while viewing the sub-display part.  
      In this multi-player game machine, race horses and the odds thereof are shown in the main display part and the sub display part. Each player selects an arbitrary race horse from the race horses shown and bets with medals. Subsequently, a horse race is performed by these race horses in the main display part, and according to the results, each player is paid medals based on the predetermined odds.  
      In a multi-player-game machine such as this, a realistic feeling of being at the racetracks can be enjoyed by listening to the sounds output from a speaker while viewing a video shown in the main display part.  
      In addition, as a multi-player game, there is an integrated gaming system which includes a cockpit for seating a plurality of players within a theater which is provided with a large screen (refer to Patent Reference 1).  
      In this integrated game system, a personal computer device provided in each cock pit is connected to an integrated computer device for gaming, and these devices operate together to run a game. Thus, a realistic feeling and tension which cannot be attained through a privately-owned game machine is provided by generating loud sounds and vibrating sensations among the players within the theater.  
      Patent Reference 2: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open Publication Heisei 10-314450  
      In a third aspect of the background art, conventionally, a game hall includes a large number of various game machines called arcade games. These game machines are activated (enters a state enabling a game to be played) when a customer inserts a coin, such as a hundred yen coin, an original game hall medal or the like into respective game machines. Therefore, in each game machine, a large amount of medals, such as coins and the like, were thrown into medal boxes placed within each game machine and stored.  
      Incidentally, in recent years, the reduction in the cost of liquid crystal display devices has continued, and liquid crystal display devices are starting to be used widely in place of CRT (tube) display devices, even in game machines such as this, for the monitor part of the main game machine body. This is because liquid crystal display devices are advantageous in that they are more power-saving compared to the CRT display devices, capable of providing flat images, and space-saving.  
      However, because a liquid crystal display device such as this is structured to enclose a special liquid between two glass plates, change the direction of the liquid crystal molecules by applying electrical pressure, and display an image by increasing and reducing the transmission of light, it was softer and more fragile than the conventional CRT display device.  
      Therefore, when a conventional CRT display device is replaced with a liquid crystal display device, if a medal box is provided within the main game machine body and the main game machine body and the monitor part are formed integrally, as in the game machine implementing the CRT display device, there is a risk that the medal from within the medal box will be stolen from the monitor part by breaking the monitor part in the main game body. Thus, there was a problem in that, in order to replace the CRT display screen of a conventional game machine directly with a flat display, such as a liquid crystal device, security on the display device had to be tightened.  
      In response, a technology for reinforcing the monitor surface by using a protective cover glass which is not easily broken, such has reinforcing glass, on the monitor surface of a liquid crystal display device has been disclosed (for example, refer to Patent Reference 1). This is a technology in which the liquid crystal film of the liquid crystal display is sandwiched between a pair of glass plates.  
      Patent Reference 3: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open Publication Heisei 08-33759  
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION  
      However, if a game is played using a card, as in the first aspect of the background art, instances in which the player forgets the card and leaves his seat after the game occur often. In this case, there is risk the forgotten card will be misused by another person, and a problem occurs in that the stored credit is used. In addition, there was also a problem in that the process for re-issuing the card is troublesome and costly, Furthermore, when the card is not re-issued, the game and credits stored in the card are lost, and instances in which the player&#39;s sense of enjoyment diminishes significantly and the player gives up on continuing the game also occur.  
      Furthermore, the card insertion slot is often provided in a device which is separate from the terminal device. Because it is sometimes in a location which is difficult to see when the player is seated in the seat, the possibility of the card being forgotten increases.  
      In light of the foregoing issues, an object of the present invention is to provide a game machine which prevents a card from being left behind and prevents the player&#39;s sense of enjoyment from diminishing by preventing theft due to the card being left behind.  
      The present invention provides a game machine such as that below, in order to overcome the foregoing problems.  
      In a first aspect of the present invention, a game machine includes: a game controller (for example, an input operation part A 72 , described hereafter) for receiving input from a player; a monitor (for example, a main display device A 22  and a sub-display part A 61 , described hereafter) for receiving externally or generating internally and showing a game screen, generated according to a game program; a control (for example, a CPU  81 , described hereafter) for executing a game program; a seat (for example, a seat A 31 , described hereafter) for seating the player; and a card reception part (for example, a card slot A 712 , described hereafter) for receiving a card for playing a game; in which the seat part includes a seating detection (for example, seating sensors, not shown, which are embedded in a seating part A 52  and a back rest A 53 , described hereafter) for detecting that a player is seated; and a notification (for example, speakers A 75 , lamps A 76 , and an input and output part A 94 ) for performing notification when a seated player is not detected and a card is inserted into the card reception part.  
      According to the first aspect of the invention, the game machine has a notification for performing notification when the seating detection does not detect seating and a card is inserted into the card reception part.  
      In this way, because notification is given if a card is in the card reception part regardless of the player leaving the seat, it is possible to prevent a card from being left behind. In addition, a game machine which can enable the player&#39;s sense of enjoyment to continue by preventing the card from being left behind can be provided.  
      In a second aspect of the present invention, the game machine according to the first aspect of the invention has a card which includes a memory for storing credit data to which subtraction processing is performed when the game program is executed, and a control which executes the game program by performing subtraction processing on the credit data read by the card reception part included in the seat part.  
      According to the second aspect of the invention, in addition to the first aspect, a game is started by performing a subtraction processing on the credit data when starting the execution of a game program, by storing credit data in a memory included within the card.  
      In this way, the card is given monetary value and the importance of the card to the player increases, thus, encouraging players to keep the card in mind so as to eliminate cards being left behind.  
      In a third aspect of the present invention, a game machine includes: a main game machine body (for example, a main game machine body A 20 ) which includes a memory (for example, a database A 84 , described hereafter) for storing a game program and a main control (for example, a CPU  81 , described hereafter) for executing the game program stored in the memory; a plurality of terminal devices (for example, a terminal device A 30 , described hereafter) which includes an input (for example, an input operation part A 72 , described hereafter) for receiving input from a player, and a sub-control (for example, a CPU A 91  described hereafter), connected to the main game machine body through wireless connection, for transmitting game input data according to input from the input part to the main game machine body; a display (for example, a main display device A 22  and a sub-display part A 61 , described hereafter) for showing image based on image data output from the main control; in which the main control receives a plurality of game input data from a plurality of terminal devices, generates a single game data according to the game program based on this plurality of game input data, and generates and outputs to the display part image data which is shared by all terminal devices based on this single game data; the terminal device includes a seat part (for example, a seat A 31 , described hereafter) for enabling the player to be seated; the seat part includes a card reception part (for example, a card slot A 712 , described hereafter) to which a card storing individual data of a player is inserted, for reading the individual data, and a seat detection part (for example, seating sensors, not shown, which are embedded in a seating part A 52  and a back rest A 53 , described hereafter) for detecting that a player is seated; the card reception part includes a card detection part (for example, a card sensor A 723 ) for detecting that a card is inserted into the card reception part; the sub-control executes the game program based on the individual data read from the card reception part and/or game input data received by the input; and the sub-control includes a notification (for example, speakers A 75 , lamps A 76 , and an input and output part A 94 ) for giving notification when the card detection part detects the card and the seating detection part does not detect seating.  
      According to the third aspect of the invention, in a game machine which includes a main game machine body and a plurality of terminal devices which are connected by wireless connection, the game machine which reads individual data of a player from a card inserted into the card reception part and executes a game program, in addition to the game input data input from the input, gives notification by the notification when the card is detected and that the player is not seated in the seat is detected.  
      In this way, because the game machine gives notification when the card is in the card reception part regardless of the player having left the seat, the game, cards being left forgotten can be prevented. Furthermore, because individual data and credit information of the player regarding the game are stored, the game can be continued using this individual data. In addition, it is also possible, in some instances, to enable a player&#39;s enjoyment to continue by preventing the card from being left behind, such as this.  
      In a fourth aspect of the present invention, the game machine according to the third aspect of the invention has a card which includes a memory for storing credit data to which subtraction processing is performed when the execution of the game program starts, in which the sub-control executes the game program by performing subtraction processing on the credit data read by the card reception part.  
      According to the fourth aspect of the invention, in addition to the third aspect, the game machine starts the game by performing subtraction processing on the credit data when the execution of the game program starts, by storing the credit data in the memory included in the card.  
      In this way, the card is given so-called monetary value and the importance of the card to the player increases, thus, encouraging players to keep the card in mind so as to eliminate cards being left behind.  
      In a fifth aspect of the present invention, the game machine according to the third or fourth aspect of the invention has: a sub-control which includes a time measurement (for example, a time measurement part A 98 , described hereafter) for measuring time; a notification which further includes a lamp part (for example, lamps A 76 , described hereafter) for emitting light, a sound (ex, voice) output part (for example, an input and output part A 94  and speaker A 75 , described hereafter) for performing notification by sound, and a sub-display part (for example, a sub-display part A 61 , described hereafter) for showing image data generated by the sub-control; in which, when the seating detection part does not detect seating and the card detection part detects the card, the sub-control transmits a first notification start signal, the sub-display part shows at least one part of the data read by the card reception part in response to receiving the first notification start signal, the time measurement measures the time from the first notification start signal, and after a predetermined amount of time passes, if the seating detection does not detect seating and the card detection part detects the card, the sub-control transmits a second notification start signal, the lamp part is illuminated in response to receiving the second notification start signal, and the sound output parts gives second notification by sound in response to receiving the second notification start signal.  
      According to the fifth aspect of the invention, in addition to the third or fourth aspect, the game machine has a lamp part, a sound output part, and a sub-display part as the notification, gives notification by displaying at least one part of the information in the card in the sub-display part and through sound as the first notification, and if the card is still detected thereafter, gives notification by light from the lamp and sound as the second notification.  
      In this way, notification can be given in two stages such as, for example, the player is. alerted of the card being left behind by the first notification, and if the card is still detected, other people are also notified by sound and lights. Then, the possibility of the card being left behind can be reduced.  
      In a sixth aspect of the present invention, the game machine according to the fifth aspect of the invention has a sub-display part which includes a support part (for example, a support arm A 661  and A 612 , described hereafter), fixed at one end to the seat part and connected at the other end to the sub-display part, for supporting the sub-display part to enable positional changes, and a fixation driving mechanism (for example, a connection part A 615  and A 616  and a display part fixation driving control device A 63 , described hereafter) for fixing the sub-display part with the support part so as to face the player in a state enabling viewing; in which the sub-control transmits a sub-display fixation release signal to the fixation driving mechanism if the card detection part does not detect the card on the card reception part, and the fixation driving mechanism releases the sub-display fixation part.  
      According to the sixth aspect of the present invention, in addition to the fifth aspect, the sub-display part is fixed by the fixation driving mechanism by the reception of the sub-display fixation signal, and the fixation of the sub-display part is released by receiving the sub-display fixation release signal.  
      In this way, because the display part is fixed when the player attempts to leave the seat without removing the card when the game is completed, it can be made so that the player cannot leave the seat because the display part is in the way. The player can be prevented from forgetting to remove the card because there are instances in which the player can realize he has forgotten his card, in this way.  
      In a seventh aspect of the present invention, a game machine according to the sixth aspect of the invention has a card reception part which further includes a card holding part (for example, a card holding part A 724 , described hereafter) for holding the card and a card transfer part (for example, a card transfer device A 725 , described hereafter) for transferring the card to the card holding part; in which the time measurement measures the amount of time from the second notification, and the card transfer part transfers the card to the card holding part, when the time measured by the time measurement reaches a predetermined amount of time and the card detection part detects the card.  
      According to the seventh aspect of the invention, in addition to the sixth aspect, the card transfer part holds the card in the card holding part if the card is detected even after the time measured by the time measurement part passes a predetermined amount of time.  
      In this way, if the player leaves behind the card, regardless of the notifications, the card can be held in the card holding part after a predetermined amount of time has passed. Thus, the possibility of the card being stolen by another person can be reduced because the card is held in the card holding part even if it is left behind.  
      In an eighth aspect of the present invention, the game machine according to the seventh aspect of the invention has a card holding part which includes a holding detection part (for example, a card holding sensor, described hereafter) for detecting that the card transfer part has transferred the card to the card holding part and transmitting a holding completion signal, in which the sub- control gives notification through the notification in response to receiving the holding completion signal.  
      According to the eighth aspect of the present invention, in addition to the seventh aspect, the notification gives notice when the card transfer part has stored the card in the card holding part.  
      In this way, because notification can be given when the card is held in the card holding part, it can be made clear which terminal device is holding the card if, for example, there is a plurality of terminal devices, Therefore, for example, arcade staff or the like can collect the card without searching when collecting the card. In addition, by giving notification, the staff can be encouraged to collect the card and the possibility of the card being left in the card holding part for a long period of time can be reduced, thus, reducing the possibility of theft even further.  
      In a ninth aspect of the present invention, the game machine according to the fifth aspect of the invention has a card reception part which further includes a card holding part for holding the card and a card transfer part for transferring the card to the card holding part; in which the time measurement measures the amount of time from the second notification, and the card transfer part transfers the card to the card holding part, when the time measured by the time measurement reaches a predetermined amount of time and the card detection part detects the card.  
      In a tenth aspect of the present invention, the gaming machine according to the ninth aspect of the invention has a card holding part which includes a holding detection part for detecting that the card transfer part has transferred the card to the card holding part and transmitting a holding completion signal, in which the sub-control gives notification through the notification in response to receiving the holding completion signal.  
      According to the first aspect of the present invention, the game machine prevents the card from being left behind and prevents the player&#39;s sense of enjoyment from diminishing by preventing theft due to the card being left behind.  
      In a terminal device of a multi-player game machine such as that according to the second aspect of the background art, in most instances, there is no space for the player to place his belongings when playing a game. Thus, in most cases, the player had no choice but to place his belongings at his feet or near the seat. In addition, although there are instances in which a hook for hanging belongings or a bag for holding belongings is provided within the terminal device, the hooks and the like cannot be locked to fix the belongings. Therefore, this sometimes causes a reduction in the player&#39;s sense of enjoyment because the player cannot concentrate on the game due to fear that his belongings will be stolen while he is playing a game.  
      In addition, if a wall is placed around the seat of the terminal device, like a shelter, for the effect of playing the game in a private room, in most cases, sufficient space is not provided for placing belongings. Then, the player must play the game while fearing theft because his belongings get in the way it is placed at his feet and are, thus, placed where the player cannot see during the game. Therefore, instances occur in which the player&#39;s sense of enjoyment diminishes.  
      Furthermore, if belongings are stored in a locker or the like beforehand, the player must keep the locker key. Because the locker key is often small, the player often loses the key while concentrating on the game or cannot concentrate on the game because he is worried about the key.  
      In light of the foregoing issues, an object of the present invention is to provide a terminal device of a game machine which can enable the player to concentrate on the game at ease by preventing the theft of belongings and can enhance the sense of enjoyment of each player.  
      The present invention provides a terminal device such as that below, in order to overcome the foregoing problems.  
      In an eleventh aspect of the present invention, a game machine includes: a game controller (for example, an input operation part B 72 , described hereafter) for receiving input from a player; a display part (for example, a main display device B 22  and a sub-display part B 51 , described hereafter) for receiving externally or generating internally and showing a game image, generated according to a game program; a seat (for example, a seat B 31 , described hereafter) for seating the player; and a control (for example, a main control device, described hereafter) for executing a game program; and a lock (for example, a hook B 40 , described hereafter) which has an anti-theft mechanism for hanging or holding the player&#39;s belongings, which is normally in an unlocked state and enters a locked state in response to the start of a game.  
      According to the eleventh aspect of the present invention, the lock which is normally in an unlocked state can enter a locked state when the control receives a game start signal and can enter an unlocked state when a game completion signal is received. In this way, because a key or the like for locking is not required, the player can concentrate on the game without thinking about the whereabouts of the key or theft of his belongings and the player&#39;s sense of enjoyment can be enhanced.  
      In a twelfth aspect of the present invention, the game machine according to the eleventh aspect of the invention has: a lock which includes a U-shaped hook part (for example, a hook B 40 , described hereafter) having an upper aperture and connected to the seat part, a stopper (for example, a stopper B 413 , described hereafter) for closing the upper aperture and preventing the object-to-be-hung hooked to the hook part from being removed, a lock control part (for example, a hook control device B 412 , described hereafter) for switch-controlling the upper aperture to both closed and open state by engaging the stopper to the upper aperture or releasing the engagement, and a load detection part (for example, a sensor B 415 , described hereafter) for detecting that an object-to-be-hung is hung on the hook part; in which the lock control part changes the upper aperture from an open-state to a closed-state by the stopper, in response to the load detection part detecting that a object-to-be-hung is hung on the hook part and a predetermined excessive load is applied.  
      According to the twelfth aspect of the present invention, when a hook for hanging belongings is provided and the player hangs his belongings on the hook, the load detection can detect this and place the stopper in a closed-state. In this way, the risk of theft of belongings during a game can be reduced. In addition, because this operation is performed automatically and a key for locking is not necessary, the player can concentrate on the game without thinking about the whereabouts of the key or theft of his belongings and the player&#39;s sense of enjoyment can be enhanced.  
      In a thirteenth aspect of the present invention, the game machine according to the eleventh aspect has; a lock which includes a U-shaped hook part (for example, a hook B 40 , described hereafter) having an upper aperture and connected to the seat part, a stopper (for example, a stopper B 413 , described hereafter) for closing the upper aperture and preventing the object-to-be-hung hooked to the hook part from being removed, a lock control part (for example, a hook control device B 412 , described hereafter) for switch-controlling the upper aperture to both closed and open state by engaging the stopper to the upper aperture or releasing the engagement; in which the game machine includes a game medium insertion part (for example, a medal insertion part B 734 , described hereafter) for inserting a predetermined game medium; the game medium insertion part includes a game medium insertion detection part (for example, a sensor, not shown, embedded in the medal insertion part B 734  or a sensor embedded in the card slot B 721 , described hereafter) for detecting that a predetermined game medium has been inserted; the seat part includes a seating detection part (for example, a seating sensor which is not shown, described hereafter), for detecting that the player is seated; and the lock control part changes the upper aperture from an open-state to a closed-state by the stopper, in response to the game medium insertion detection part detecting the insertion of the predetermined game medium or the seating detection part detecting that the player is seated.  
      According to the thirteenth aspect of the present invention, in addition to the eleventh aspect, the lock control part changes the upper aperture to a closed-state by the stopper, in response to the detection of the insertion of the game medium or the seating of the player.  
      In this way, the upper aperture part can enter a closed state by the stopper by not only applying load of the belongings to the hook, but also by detecting the insertion of the game medium or the seating of the player, in addition, because a key for locking is not necessary, the player can concentrate on the game without thinking about the whereabouts of the key or theft of his belongings and the player&#39;s sense of enjoyment can be enhanced.  
      In a fourteenth aspect of the present invention, the game machine according to the thirteenth aspect has a seating detection part which transmits a lock release signal when the seating of the player is not detected and a lock control part which changes the upper aperture from an open-state to a closed-state by the stopper, in response to receiving the lock release signal.  
      According to the fourteenth aspect of the present invention, in addition to the thirteenth aspect, the seating detection part transmits a lock release signal when the seating of the player is not detected and the stopper enters an open-state in response to the reception of the lock release signal, in this way, because the stopper automatically enters an open-state when the seating is not detected, such as by the player leaving the seat, the player can remove his belongings from the hook part easily, just by standing up from this seat. In addition, because the conventional action of opening the lock and removing the belongings becomes unnecessary, the payer can concentrate on the game without thinking about the whereabouts of the key, and the player&#39;s sense of enjoyment can be enhanced.  
      In a fifteenth aspect of the present invention, the game machine according to a fourteenth aspect of the invention further includes: a time measurement part (for example, a timer B 98 , described hereafter) for measuring time; in which the time measurement part measures time in response to the transmission of the lock release signal from the seating detection part, and-the lock control part receives the lock release signal and changes the upper aperture from an open-state to a closed-state by the stopper, in response to the passage of a predetermined amount of time measured by the time measurement part.  
      According to the fifteenth aspect of the present invention, in addition to the fourteenth aspect, the lock control part releases the stopper lock after the time measurement part measures the passage of a predetermined amount of time from the transmission of the lock release signal. In this way, the stopper enters an open-state after a predetermined amount of time has passed since the player stood up from the seat part, in addition, because the stopper can remain in a closed-state until the player stands up from the seat part and reaches the hook part, theft of belongings until the player reaches the hook part can be prevented. Furthermore, the player can concentrate on the game without thinking about the theft of belongings, and the player&#39;s sense of enjoyment can be enhanced.  
      In a sixteenth aspect of the present invention, the game machine according to any one of the twelfth to fifteenth aspects has a seat part which includes a seat shell (for example, a seat shell B 70  described hereafter) for covering the surrounding area of the seat part, in which the hook part is attached to the outside of the seat shell.  
      According to the sixteenth aspect of the present invention, because a hook is attached to the outside of the seat shell which covers the seat part, it is not necessary to place belongings inside the seat shell. In this way, the belongings do not get in the way of the game, and an environment enabling the player to concentrate on the game further can be provided.  
      In a seventeenth aspect of the present invention, the game machine according to the fifteenth aspect of the invention includes: a photographing (for example, a belongings camera B 42 , described hereafter) for photographing an image of the object-to-be-hung when the hook part is in a closed-state; in which the display part shows the image of the object-to-be-hung taken by the photographing.  
      According to the seventeenth aspect of the present invention, in addition to the fifteenth aspect, the image of the object-to-be-hung is taken when the upper aperture of the hook part is in a closed-state and the image is shown in the display part.  
      In this way, because the player can confirm the state of his belongings at all times, fear of the theft of his belongings can be reduced. In addition, an environment enabling the player to concentrate on the game can be provided and the player&#39;s sense of enjoyment can be enhanced.  
      In an eighteenth aspect of the present invention, the game machine according to the fifteenth aspect of the invention has: a seat part which includes a movement (for example, a traveling part B 32 , described hereafter), which is provided on the lower part of the seat part, for moving the seat part; and a control which includes a movement control (for example, a CPU B 91 , described hereafter) for driving the movement.  
      According to the eighteenth aspect of the present invention, in addition to the fifteenth aspect, because a lockable hook is attached to a mobile seat part, a game can be played without the belongings getting thrown down, even when the terminal device moves. In this way, because the risk of theft due to the belongings getting thrown down is reduced, the player can concentrate on the game further, and the sense of enjoyment can be enhanced.  
      In the nineteenth aspect of the present invention, the game machine according to the sixteenth aspect of the invention includes: a photographing for photographing an image of the object-to-be-hung when the hook part is in a closed-state; in which the display part shows the image of the object-to-be-hung taken by the photographing.  
      In a twentieth aspect of the present invention, the game machine according to the sixteenth aspect of the invention has: a seat part which includes a movement, which is provided on the lower part of the seat part, for moving the seat part; and a control which includes a movement control for driving the movement.  
      In a twenty-first aspect of the present invention, the game machine according to the nineteenth aspect of the invention has, a seat part which includes a movement, which is provided on the lower part of the seat part, for moving the seat part; and a control which includes a movement control for driving the movement.  
      According to the second aspect of the present invention, a game player can be provided. In which the player can concentrate on the game at ease by preventing theft of belongings and the sense of enjoyment of each player can be enhanced.  
      The protective cover glass, such as that according to the third aspect of the background art, was not preferable because it was expensive and heavy. In addition, the foregoing protective cover glass was often thick and it was necessary to implement backlight for the liquid crystal display device with a higher luminance than normal. Furthermore, this caused new problems to arise, such as the narrowing of the viewing angle due to thickness.  
      Recently, in particular, a touch panel is provided on the surface of the monitor screen of a liquid crystal device and the liquid crystal device and the touch panel is often sold as an integrated module. In these instances, if a protective cover glass is placed between the touch panel and the liquid crystal screen, this causes the manufacturing process to become complicated, and because this cannot be implemented as is, this can lead to increased costs.  
      In light of the foregoing issues, an object of the present invention is to provide a game machine which provides a display, such as a liquid crystal display device, of the game machine within which a plurality of game media are stored separately from a game medium storage part within which the game media are saved and prevents the theft of the game media by misconduct occurring from destruction of the display or the like.  
      The present invention provides a game machine such as that below, in order to overcome the foregoing problems.  
      In a twenty-second aspect of the present invention, a game machine includes: a game controller (for example, an input operation part C 72 , described hereafter) for receiving input from a player; a flat display (for example, a liquid crystal monitor C 813 , described hereafter) for receiving externally or generating internally and showing a game image, generated according to a game program; and a seat (for example, a seat C 50 , described hereafter) for seating the player; in which the flat display is provided separately from the game machine, is normally stored within a storage part (for example, a liquid crystal monitor storage part C 62 , described hereafter) for storing the flat display, and includes a driving mechanism (for example, a liquid crystal monitor driving control device C 63 , described hereafter) for moving the flat display to a predetermined position and into a state enabling play when the game is started, and on the other hand, automatically stores the flat display into the storage part when the game is completed.  
      According to the twenty-second aspect of the present invention, the flat display, provided separately from the game machine, is automatically moved to a predetermined position by the driving mechanism when the game starts and automatically stored in the storage part in the main game machine body when the game is completed.  
      In this way, theft of the flat display itself can be reduced when in a normal state, and problems such as the flat display getting in the way when the player is seated in the seat or forgetting to store the flat display can be prevented. Furthermore, the automatic actions of the flat display such as these can, as a result, enhance a sense of high-quality regarding the game machine. When movement-operating the flat display which is connected to the connection device, a method for automatic movement can be implemented, as in the foregoing, and a method for manual movement can be implemented, as well.  
      In a twenty-third aspect of the present invention, a game program includes: a main game machine body which includes a memory (for example, a database C 84 , described hereafter) for storing a game program, a control (for example, a main control device C 80 , described hereafter) for executing the game program stored in the memory, an input (for example, an input operation part C 72 , described hereafter) for receiving input from the player, and a game medium storage (for example, a medal collection part C 73 , described hereafter), having a game medium insertion part and a game medium payout part, for storing game media inserted from the game medium insertion part; a flat display (for example, a liquid crystal monitor C 613 , described hereafter) for showing game image generated by the control according to input from the input; and a transmitting part (for example, a transmitting part C 64 , described hereafter) for transmitting the game image to the flat display; in which the flat display part is provided separately from the main game machine body via a connection device (for example, a first support arm C 611  and a second support arm C 612 ).  
      According to the twenty-third aspect of the present invention, because the flat display and the main game machine body, having a game medium storage part within which a plurality of game media is stored, are provided separately by placing a connection device therebetween, theft by misconduct occurring from destruction of the flat display or the like can be prevented without providing a protective cover glass, such as that described earlier. In addition, because game media, such as medals and coins, cannot be stolen even if the flat display itself is destroyed since it is separate from the main game machine body, destruction of the flat display itself can also be prevented.  
      In a twenty-fourth aspect of the present invention, the game machine according to the twenty-third aspect of the invention has: a main game machine body, to which a seat (for example, a seat C 50 , described hereafter) for enabling the player to play in a seated state is provided integrally, which includes a storage part (for example, a liquid crystal monitor storage part C 62 , described hereafter) for storing the flat display part; and a connection device which includes, at the least, a connection rod (for example, a first support arm C 611  and a second support arm C 612 , described hereafter) of which one end is fixed to the main game machine body and the other end is connected to the flat display; in which the connection device moves the flat display part to a predetermined position and into a state enabling play from a state of storage within the storage part during a normal state, with the reception of a game start signal from the control as a trigger, and on the other hand, is connected to a driving mechanism (for example, a liquid crystal monitor driving control device C 63 , described hereafter) for automatically storing the flat display into the storage part, with the reception of a game completion signal from the control as a trigger.  
      Here, the predetermined position is a position placed facing the player seated in the seat, and can be adjusted by the player.  
      According to the twenty-fourth aspect of the present invention, because the player can move the flat display automatically by the driving mechanism according to the start of the game and can store it to the storage part of the main game machine body automatically at the completion of the game, theft of the flat device itself can be reduced and problems such as the flat display getting in the way when the player is seated in the seat or forgetting to store the flat display can be prevented. Furthermore, the automatic actions of the flat display such as these can, as a result, enhance a sense of high-quality regarding the game machine. When movement-operating the flat display which is connected to the connection device, a method for automatic movement can be implemented, as in the foregoing, and a method for manual movement can be implemented, as well.  
      In a twenty-fifth aspect of the present invention, the game machine according to the twenty-third or twenty-fourth aspect of the invention has a game medium storage which includes a level sensor (for example, a remaining amount sensor C 76 , described hereafter) for transmitting an empty signal, in response to detecting that the storage level of the game media stored within the game medium storage is below a predetermined level.  
      According to the twenty-fifth aspect of the present invention, the game machine includes a sensor for determining whether the storage level of the game media stored within the game medium storage is below a predetermined level and transmitting an empty signal when it is below a predetermined level.  
      In this way, because the empty signal can be transmitted outside, such as to the arcade staff, when the remaining amount of the game media is below a predetermined level, the staff can be prompted to replenish the game media before the game medium storage level reaches zero.  
      In a twenty-sixth aspect of the present invention, a game machine includes: a main game machine body which includes a memory (for example, a database C 84 , described hereafter) for storing a game program, and a main control (for example, a main control device C 80  described hereafter) for executing the game program stored in the memory; a main terminal device body which includes an input (for example, an input operation part C 72 , described hereafter) for receiving input from the player, a game medium storage (for example, a medal collection part C 73 , described hereafter), having a game medium insertion part and a game medium payout part, for storing inserted game media, and a sub-control (for example, a sub-control device C 90 , described hereafter) for transmitting game input data according to input from the input, connected by wireless connection to the main game machine body, to the main control of the main game machine body; a plurality of terminal devices which includes a flat display (for example, a liquid crystal monitor C 613 , described hereafter) for showing game image generated by the main control according to input from the input and the game program and a transmitting part (for example, a transmitting part C 64 , described hereafter) for transmitting the game image to the flat display; and a main display (for example, a main display device C 22 , described hereafter) for showing images based on the image data output from the main control; in which the main control receives a plurality of game input data from the plurality of terminal devices, generates a single game data according to the game program, based on these plural game input data, generates image data which is shared with all of the terminal devices, based on the generated single game data, and outputs this data to the main display; and the flat display part is provided separately from the main terminal device body via a connection device (for example, a first support arm C 611  and a second support arm C 612 ).  
      According to the twenty-sixth aspect of the present invention, in a multi-player-type game machines in which numerous players participate, such as a multi-player game, because the flat display and the main terminal device body, having a game medium storage part within which a plurality of image media is stored, are provided separately with a connection part therebetween, theft by misconduct occurring from destruction of the flat display or the like can be prevented without providing a protective cover glass, such as that described earlier. In addition, because game media, such as medals and coins, cannot be stolen even if the flat display itself is destroyed, since it is a separate device, destruction of the flat display itself can also be prevented.  
      In a twenty-seventh aspect of the present invention, the game machine according to the twenty-sixth aspect of the invention has: a main terminal device body, to which a seat (for example, a seat C 50 , described hereafter) for enabling the player to play in a seated state is provided integrally, which includes a storage part (for example, a liquid crystal monitor storage part C 62 , described hereafter) for storing the flat display; a connection device which includes, at the least, a connection rod (for example, a first support arm C 611  and a second support arm C 612 , described hereafter) of which one end is fixed to the main terminal device body and the other end is connected to the flat display; in which the connection device moves the flat display part to a predetermined position and into a state enabling play from a state of storage within the storage part during a normal state, with the reception of a game start signal from the main control as a trigger, and on the other hand, is connected to a driving mechanism (for example, a liquid crystal monitor driving control device C 63 , described hereafter) for automatically storing the flat display into the storage part, with the reception of a game completion signal from the main control by the sub-control as a trigger.  
      According to the twenty-seventh aspect of the present invention, in a multi-player-type game machines in which numerous players participate, such as a multi-player game, because the player can move the flat display automatically by the driving mechanism according to the start of the game and can store it to the storage part of the main game machine body automatically at the completion of the game, theft of the flat device itself can be reduced and problems such as the flat display getting in the way when the player is seated in the seat or forgetting to store the flat display can be prevented. Furthermore, the automatic actions of the flat display such as these can, as a result, enhance a sense of high-quality regarding the game machine. When movement-operating the flat display which is connected to the connection device, a method for automatic movement can be implemented, as in the foregoing, and a method for manual movement can be implemented, as well.  
      In a twenty-eighth aspect of the present invention, the game machine according to the twenty-sixth or twenty-seventh aspect of the invention has a game medium storage which includes a level sensor (for example, a remaining amount sensor C 76 , described hereafter) for transmitting an empty signal, in response to detecting that the storage level of the game media stored within the game medium storage is below a predetermined level.  
      According to the twenty-eighth aspect of the present invention, the game machine includes a sensor for determining whether the storage level of the game media stored within the game medium storage is below a predetermined level and transmitting an empty signal when it is below a predetermined level.  
      In this way, because the empty signal can be transmitted outside, such as to the arcade staff, when the remaining amount of the game media is below a predetermined level, the staff can be prompted to replenish the game media before the game medium storage level reaches zero.  
      According to the third aspect of the present invention, because a liquid crystal display device of the game machine within which a plurality of game media are stored is provided separately from a game medium storage part within which the game media are saved, with a connection device placed therebetween, theft of game media by misconduct occurring from destruction of the display or the like can be prevented.  
      Further features of the invention, its nature, and various advantages will be apparent from the accompanying drawings and the following detailed description of the invention, 
    
    
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS  
       FIG. 1A  is a perspective view showing an outward aspect of a game machine A 1  according to an example of a preferred embodiment of the present invention;  
       FIG. 2A  is a perspective view showing an outward aspect of a terminal device A 30  of the game machine A 1 ;  
       FIG. 3A  is a perspective view of the seat of the terminal device A 30 ;  
       FIG. 4A  is a perspective view showing a state in which a sub-monitor of the terminal device A 30  is stored within a sub monitor storage part;  
       FIG. 5A  is a perspective view showing a state in which the display screen of the sub-monitor of the terminal device A 30  is turned toward the player;  
       FIG. 6A  is a perspective view showing a state in which the position of the sub-monitor of the terminal device A 30  is adjusted;  
       FIG. 7A  is a block diagram showing the overall configuration of the game machine A 1 ;  
       FIG. 8A  is a block diagram showing a configuration of a main control device A 80  of the game machine A 1 ;  
       FIG. 9A  is a block diagram showing a configuration of a sub-control device A 90  of the game machine A 1 ;  
       FIG. 10A  is a main flowchart showing a processing in which the terminal device A 30  performs notification;  
       FIG. 11A  is a main flowchart showing a processing in which the terminal device A 30  performs notification;  
       FIG. 12A  is a flowchart showing a processing in which the terminal device A 30  performs a first notification processing;  
       FIG. 13A  is a flowchart showing a processing in which the terminal device A 30  performs a time measurement/card detection processing;  
       FIG. 14A  is a flowchart showing a processing in which the terminal device A 30  performs a second notification processing;  
       FIG. 15A  is a flowchart showing a processing in which the terminal device A 30  fixes the sub-display part A 61  and performs notification;  
       FIG. 1B  is a perspective view showing an outward aspect of a game machine B 1  according to an example of a preferred embodiment of the present invention;  
       FIG. 2B  is a perspective view showing an outward aspect of a terminal device B 30  of the game machine B 1 ;  
       FIG. 3B  is a perspective view of the seat of the terminal device B 30 ;  
       FIG. 4B  is a perspective view of a hook B 4  of the terminal device B 30 ;  
       FIG. 5B  is a perspective view of a state in which the stopper B 413  of the hook  14  of the terminal device B 30  is extended;  
       FIG. 6B  is a side view of the hook B 40  of the terminal device B 30 ;  
       FIG. 7B  is a diagram showing an embodiment of a state in which belongings are hung on the hook B 40  of the terminal device B 30 ;  
       FIG. 8B  is a block diagram showing the overall configuration of the game machine B 1 ;  
       FIG. 9B  is a block diagram showing a configuration of a main control device B 80  of the game machine B 1 ;  
       FIG. 10B  is a block diagram showing a configuration of a sub-control device B 90  of the game machine B 1 ;  
       FIG. 11B  is a flowchart showing a processing in which the hook B 40  of the terminal device B 30  is locked;  
       FIG. 12B  is a flowchart showing a processing in which the hook B 40  of the terminal device B 30  is unlocked:  
       FIG. 1C  is a perspective view showing an outward aspect of a game machine according to an example of a preferred embodiment of the present invention;  
       FIG. 2C  is a perspective view showing an outward aspect of a terminal device of the game machine;  
       FIG. 3C  is a perspective view of the seat of the terminal device in seat mode;  
       FIG. 4C  is a perspective view of the seat of the terminal device in bed mode;  
       FIG. 5C  is a perspective view showing a state in which a liquid crystal display device is stored within a side unit of the terminal device;  
       FIG. 6C  is a perspective view showing a state in which a liquid crystal monitor of the terminal device is pulled out from within the liquid crystal monitor storage part;  
       FIG. 7C  is a perspective view showing a state in which the display screen of the liquid crystal monitor of the terminal device is turned toward the player;  
       FIG. 8C  is a perspective view showing a state in which the position of the liquid crystal monitor of the terminal device is adjusted;  
       FIG. 9C  is an enlarged perspective view of one section of a traveling part of the terminal device;  
       FIG. 10C  is a block diagram showing an overall configuration of the game machine and the terminal device;  
       FIG. 11C  is a block diagram showing a configuration of a main control device of the main game machine body;  
       FIG. 12C  is a block diagram showing a configuration of a sub-control device of the terminal device;  
       FIG. 13C  is a main flowchart of a game executed in the game machine;  
       FIG. 14C  is a flowchart of the game processing of the game program executed in the game machine; and  
       FIG. 15C  is a flowchart of a remaining amount confirmation processing of the game medium executed in the game machine. 
    
    
     DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS  
      The preferred embodiments of the present invention are described below, with reference to the drawings.  
      Overall Configuration of the Game Machine  
       FIG. 1A  is a perspective view showing an outward aspect of the game machine A 1  according to an embodiment of the present invention.  
      The game machine A 1  is a multi-player game machine, including a main game machine body A 20  which includes a flat, rectangular play area A 21  and a plurality of terminal devices A 30  which are placed on this play area A 21 .  
      Aside from the play area A 21 , the main game machine body A 20  includes a main display device A 22  which is placed along one side of the play area A 21 , a speaker device A 23  which is placed in the four corners of the play area A 21 , and a main control device A 80  for controlling these main display device A 22  and speaker device A 23 .  
      The play area A 21  is divided into a plurality of sub-areas A 212 . As these sub-areas A 212 , there are city areas A 212 A, ocean areas A 212 B, and forest areas A 212 C. In addition, IC tags A 211  are buried in grid-form in the play area A 21 . Positional information of the inside of the play area A 21  is stored to this IC tag A 211 .  
      The main display device A 22  is a large projector display device. The main display device A 22  is not limited thereto and can also be a large monitor.  
      The main control device A 80  can communicate with each terminal device A 30  bi-directionally through wireless LAN and can provide each player with a common virtual space by executing the predetermined game program and bi-directionally communicating with each terminal device A 30 .  
      Each terminal device A 30  is placed facing towards the main display device A 22 . This terminal device A 30  is connected to the main control device A 80  through wireless LAN and can be moved over the play area A 21  according to the instructions from the main control device A 80  or by player operation.  
       FIG. 2A  is a perspective view showing an outward aspect of each terminal device A 30 .  
      The terminal device A 30  includes a seat A 31 , a traveling part A 32  which supports this seat A 31  from beneath and, in addition, moves it over the player area A 21 , and lamps A 76 .  
      In addition, an IC tag detection part A 324  for detecting IC tags A 211 , which are buried in the play area A 21 , is provided below the driving control device A 322  of the traveling part A 32 .  
      Configuration of the Seat  
       FIG. 2A  is a perspective view of the seat A 31 .  
      Seat A 31  includes a main seat body A 50 , a side unit A 60  which is provided along one side surface of the main seat body A 50 , and a seat shell A 70  which surrounds the main seat body A 50  on three sides, excluding the other side surface side.  
      The main seat body A 50  includes a flat base part A 51 , a seating part A 52  which is provided on this base part A 51 , a back rest A 53  which is attached to enable changing of its angle to the seating part A 52 , a head rest A 54  which is provided on the top part of the back rest A 53 , and a pair of side arms A 55  which are provided in positions on the seat surface of the seating part A 52  and both sides of the back rest.  
      A card slot A 72  for inserting a card is fitted and provided near the tip part of the side arm A 55 . In addition, the inside of the side arm A 55  includes a card reader/writer A 722  for reading data stored on a card and writing data to a card, a card holding part A 724  for storing the card, a card transfer device A 725  ( FIG. 9A ) flr transferring the card, and a card holding sensor A 726  ( FIG. 9A ) for detecting that a card is stored and transmitting a holding completion signal.  
      The card has a storage medium for enabling data to be read and written, such as a magnetic card which stores data on a magnetic tape or an IC card which stores data on an IC chip embedded therein. In addition, data stored on the card can be personal information such as the player&#39;s user ID, gaming history, credit data which is used when starting the game, and the like. In addition, this credit data can be data indicating gaming rights purchased beforehand, such as in a prepaid system. Furthermore, the card can be a so-called credit card in which the number of times a game is played and the amount of time played are stored as credit data and charged after the passing of a predetermined period of time.  
      The seating part A 52  moves back and forth on the base part A 51  when the player operates the input operation part A 72 . In the main seat body A 50 , this seating part A 52  can be slid back and forth and, at the same time, the back rest A 53  can recline backwards and form a bed.  
      The seating part A 52  includes a leg rest A 521  which is provided on the front surface side and a foot rest A 522  which is stored in the tip of this leg rest A 521 . The leg rest A 521  turns upward according to the sliding motion, when the seating part A 52  is slid forward, and becomes a seat surface which continues from the seat surface of the seating part A 52 . At the same time, the foot rest A 522  projects from the leg rest A 521  and becomes a seat surface which continues from the leg rest A 521 .  
      A bag component, into which air can be injected, is embedded respectively within the seat surface of the seating part A 52 , the lower part of the back rest A 53  (which comes into contact with the lower back of the player) and the head rest A 54 . When air is injected into these bag components by an air pump, the surface swells and can support the user while accommodating the contours of the body surface of the user.  
      In addition, a seating sensor, which is not shown, is embedded in the seating part A 52  or the back rest A 53  for detecting that a player is seated. This seating sensor is a weight sensor or a pressure sensor which detects the load applied when the player is seated.  
      A sub-display part A 61 , which is configured to include a liquid crystal display panel, is stored in the side unit A 60 .  
      As shown in  FIG. 2A , the sub-display part A 61  includes a first support arm A 611  which is supported by the side unit ASO, a second support arm A 612  which is attached to the tip of the first support arm A 611 , and a flat, rectangular sub-monitor A 613  which is attached to the tip of the second support arm A 612  and performs liquid crystal display,  
      The first support arm A 611  can be extended and retracted freely in the direction vertical to the side unit A 60 . The second support arm A 612  can extend and retract freely and can be fixed to an arbitrary angle to the axis direction of the first support arm A 611 . The sub-monitor A 613  can be fixed to an arbitrary angle to the axis direction of the second support arm A 612 .  
      A sub-monitor storage space A 62  which extends in the vertical direction is provided in the side unit A 60 , and the foregoing first support arm A 611 , a second support arm A 612 , and a sub-monitor A 613  are stored within the sub-monitor storage space A 62 .  
      A small CCD camera A 614  is embedded into the sub-monitor A 613 . This CCD camera A 614  is used when creating an avatar in the game field.  
      The image taken by the CCD camera A 614  is displayed constantly in the sub-display part A 61  in the terminal device A 30 , by operating an input operation part A 72  (described hereafter). Because the expressions of the player per se can be viewed during the game in this way, enjoyment increases. In this case, the photographed image can be shown on the entire screen of the sub-monitor A 613  or in one section of the screen.  
      The procedure by which the player pulls out the sub-monitor A 613  from the storage space A 62  is explained, with reference to  FIG. 4A  to  FIG. 6A .  
      First, as shown in  FIG. 4A , the player slides the sub-monitor A 613  upward from the sub-monitor storage space A 62  and extends the first support arm A 611  and the second support arm A 612 , while seated in the main seat body A 50 . Then, as shown in  FIG. 5A , the display screen of the sub-monitor A 613  is turned toward the player by twisting the sub-monitor A 613 . Subsequently, as shown in  FIG. 6A , the sub-monitor A 613  is positioned to the player&#39;s eye level by adjusting the relative angles of the first support arm A 611  and the second support arm A 612  and the relative angles of the second support arm A 612  and the sub-monitor A 613 .  
      Next, the connection part A 615  between the first support arm A 611  and the second support arm A 612  and the connection part A 616  between the second support arm A 612  and the sub-monitor A 613  are controlled by an electrically-controlled display fixation driving control device A 63 . Then, the sub-monitor A 613  is fixed or released by the reception of a sub-display fixation signal or a sub-display fixation release signal (described hereafter) from the COU A 91 .  
      A sub-control device A 90  which is connected by wireless LAN to the main control device A 80  and a plurality of board storage slots A 97  which configure this sub-control device A 90  are provided within the side unit A 60 .  
      The sub-control device A 90  controls the sub-display part A 61  and the traveling part A 32 , based on instructions from the main control device A 80 , as well as transmitting signals input by the input operation part A 72  (described hereafter) to the main control device A 80 .  
      A cover part A 971  is provided to open and close freely on the upper part of the board storage slots A 97 . By opening the cover part A 971  and inserting a terminal control board A 972  from above, as shown in  FIG. 2A , the terminal control board A 972  can be attached to the board storage slot A 97 .  
      The back-side of the seat shell A 70  extends upward and can support the back rest A 53  and the head rest A 54 . In addition, speakers A 75  and lamps A 76  are provided on both sides of the head rest A 54  of the seat shell A 70 .  
      The back-sides of the side surfaces of the seat shell A 70  extends upward so that the player seated in the main seat body A 50  cannot be viewed by other players.  
      The lamp A 76  is provided on the tip of a rod-shaped support part attached to the side surface of the seat shell A 70 . This lamp A 76  is provided at the highest position on the terminal device A 30 , which is a position which can be seen easily from outside of the terminal device A 30 .  
      This lamp A 76  includes three types of LED chips which emit red, blue, and green light, and additionally, a reflective frame is provided surrounding these LED chips. The red, blue, and green lights emitted from each LED chip are blended by the reflective frame, and thus, in the present embodiment, the lamp A  76  illuminates with lighting aspects of six colors: purple, yellow, white, green, blue, and red.  
      A table A 71  is attached from one side surface of the main seat body A 50  to the front surface, on the upper edge of the seat shell A 70 . The space beneath this table A 71  accepts the leg rest A 521  and the foot rest A 522  when the main seat body A 50  is placed in bed mode.  
      The input operation part A 72 , configured by a keyboard, a jog dial and the like, is provided in the vicinity of the side arm A 55  on the table A 71 .  
      Although the input operation part AB 72  is provided on the table A 71  in the present embodiment, this is not limited thereto, and can be provided as a touch-panel on the sub-monitor A 613 .  
      A medal payout opening A 731  from which medals are paid out from a medal collection part A 73  provided within the side unit A 60 , a medal receiving part A 732  for receiving the medals which are paid out, and a medal insertion part A 734  to which coins are inserted are provided below the table A 71  and in front of the side arm A 55 . A reception opening for attaching a holder A 733  is provided in the medal reception part A 732 . In addition, a sensor for detecting that a medal is inserted is installed in the medal insertion part A 734 . For example, this medal can be paid out according to the betting odds of an event within the game environment. For example; predetermined odds (betting odds) are stipulated to the participants for a certain event (win/loss of horse-racing, combat, etc.), similar to a book-maker, and the player bets on the object of his choice. Then, medals are paid out based on the odds, according to the win/loss results. The prize resulting from this book-maker is not limited to medals and can be items within the game environment.  
       FIG. 7A  is a block diagram of an overall configuration of the game machine A 1 .  
      In this game machine A 1 , the main control device A 80  of the main game machine body A 20  had a wireless communication part A 83  and the sub-control device A 90  of the terminal device A 30  has a wireless communication part A 93 . These wireless communication parts A 83  and A 93  can be interconnected by a wireless LAN, and thus, the transfer of sound data and character data can be performed between the main control device A 80  and the sub-control device A 90 .  
      Configuration of the Main Control Device  
       FIG. 10A  is a block diagram showing the configuration of the main control device A 80 .  
      The main control device A 80  has a CPUA 81 , a memory A 82 , a wireless communication part A 83 , and a database A 84 , which are connected to a data bus A 89 .  
      The wireless communication part A 83  includes a transceiving circuit part (RF) A 85  for transmitting and receiving signals with the sub-control device A 90 , and a base band processing part A 86  for converting RF (Radio Frequency) signals received by the transceiving circuit part A 85  into base band signals and also converting base band signals to be transmitted into RF signals.  
      The database A 84  is a circuit board which includes a memory part to which a game program is stored or a storage medium (for example, a hard disk or ROM cassette) to which the game program is stored.  
      Specifically, a slot to which these circuit boards and storage mediums can be attached and removed is provided in the main control device A 80 . By attaching and removing these circuit boards and storage mediums from the slot, the game program stored to the database A 84  can be replaced, accordingly, and other game programs can be executed. Replacing the game program is not limited to that via hardware, as such, and the game program can be replaced directly by downloading via a communication circuit.  
      The CPU A 81  executes various processing according to the game program.  
      In other words, the CPU A 81  reads the game program stored in the database A 84  to the memory A 82  and runs the game according to this game program.  
      During the game, the CPU A 81  extracts the game program, information expressing the game status corresponding to the time-line in the game field at that time (namely, information expressing events and the like occurring within the game field), scent data corresponding to the sub-area A 212 , and the like from the data base A 84 , in response to request from the terminal device A 30 , and transmits these to the terminal device A 30 , which is the request source, via wireless LAN. In addition, the CPU A 81  receives information expressing the operation results of the player from each terminal device A 30  and stores this in the memory A 82 .  
      The CPU A 81  runs the game, based on the information expressing the operation results of the players stored in the memory A 82 , and stores the progression results of the game program in the database A 84 .  
      Here, the information expressing the operation results of the player are, for example, selection results by the player from a selection shown to the player via the terminal device A 30 , based on the progress of the game program, or the results of the operation performed by the player of the character appearing in the game, and is information transmitted from the terminal device A 30  as a result of the player operating their respective terminal devices A 30 . Other players can check the progress status of the current game stored in this database A 84  (for example, high-score information, etc.)  
      Configuration of the Sub-Control Device  
       FIG. 11A  is a block diagram showing the configuration of the sub-control device A 90 .  
      The sub-control device A 90  has a CPU A 91 , a memory A 92 , a wireless communication part A 93 , and an input and output part A 94  which is the interface with the speaker A 75 , which are connected to a data bus A 99 .  
      The wireless communication part A 93  includes a transceiving circuit part (RF) A 95  for transmitting and receiving signals with the main control device A 80 , and a base band processing part A 96  for converting RF (Radio Frequency) signals received by the transceiving circuit part A 95  into base band signals and also converting base band signals to be transmitted into RF signals.  
      In addition, the sub-control device A 90  controls the sub-display part A 61 , the driving control device A 322 , the direction control device A 323 , the card slot A 721 , the time measurement part A 98 , the display part fixation driving control device A 63 , and the input and output part A 94  which is the interface with the speaker A 75 , based on the input signals from the input operation part A 72 , the CCD camera A 614 , and the IC tag detection part A 324 .  
      The CPU A 91  executes various operations according to the operation programs stored in the memory A 92  and control respective circuit parts and devices according to the operations.  
      Sound signals from the main control device A 80  are output from the speaker A 75  through the following procedure.  
      When the RF signal is received from the main control device A 80 , the transceiving circuit part A 95  supplies this signal to the base band processing part A 96  and converts this RF signal to a base band signal. The base band processing part A 96  outputs this base band signal to the speaker A 75 , via the input and output part A 94 . Then, this base band signal is output from the speaker A 75  as sound.  
      In addition, the CPU A 91  transmits a sound signal to the input and output part A 94  and outputs this from the speaker A 75 , when a card is inserted into the card slot A 721  and the seating sensor installed in the seating part A 52  or the back rest A 53  does not detect seating.  
      Furthermore, when the player operates the input operation part A 72 , after converting various information input by operating the input operation part A 72  into packet data, the CPU A 91  transmits this to the main control device, via the band base processing part A 96  and the transceiving circuit part A 95 . At this time, each terminal device A 30  can be identified regardless of the position the terminal devices A 30  are placed on the play area A 21 .  
      Similarly, the CPU A 91  converts positional information read from the IC tag A 211  by the IC tag detection part A 324  and image information perceived by the CCD camera A 614  into packet data and transmits this to the main control device A 80 .  
      On the other hand, when an RF signal to which information converted into packet data is superimposed is transmitted from the main control device A 80 , the CPU A 91  receives this RF signal via the transceiving circuit part A 95  and the base band processing part A 96 , displays it in the sub-display part A 61  and, in addition, controls the driving control device A 322  and the direction control device A 323  of the traveling part A 32 .  
      In this way, the player seated in the terminal device A 30  can communicate various information with the main control device A 80 .  
      Specifically, the CPU A 91  performs the following operations.  
      In other words, when the CPU A 91  receives the game program and information expressing the game status corresponding to the time-line in the game field at that time from the main control device A 80 , the CPU A 91  shows various occurrences, such as events, occurring in the game field at this time according to the game program, after storing the information, such as the game program, transmitted from the main control device A 89  in the memory A 82 .  
      Furthermore, the CPU A 91  can always confirm the current position of the terminal device A 30  within the play area A 21  by reading the positional information from the IC tag A 211  by the IC tag detection part A 324 . Then, the CPU A 91  receives specification of the position on the play area A 21  from the main control device, controls the driving control device A 322  and the direction control device A 323  of the traveling part A 32  based on the signal from the IC tag detection part A 324 , and moves the terminal device A 30  to a predetermined position within the play area A 21 .  
      In addition, by operating the input operation part A 72  while viewing the game content (image, letter information, etc.) shown in the sub-display part A 61 , the player using respective terminal device A 30  can operate the characters shown in the main display device A 22 , participate in the progress of the game by operations such as selecting from a selection by letters, and move the terminal device A 30  to an designated position on the play area A 21 .  
       FIG. 10A  is a main flowchart in which a card is detected and notification is given in an example of a preferred embodiment of the present invention.  
      In step SA 100 , the seating sensor installed in the seating part A 52  and/or the back rest A 53  detects seating, if seating is detected, the sensor transmits a signal to the CPU A 91 . In the seating sensor does not detect seating, the game machine stands by until seating is detected.  
      In step SA 105 , the card sensor A 723  detects whether a card is inserted into card slot A 721 . If a card is not detected, the process returns to the processing in step SA 100 . If a card is detected, the card reader/writer A 722  reads the data stored on the card (step SA 110 ).  
      In step SA 115 , game start is determined. Specifically, the game is started when the CPU A 91  transmits a game start signal to the main control device A 80 . If the game is not started, the process proceeds to step SA 125 .  
      In step SA 120 , whether to complete the game is determined. Specifically, for example, the game is completed when, in an operation within the game, a selection stating game completion is input from the input operation part A 72  and received by the CPU A 91 . If the CPU A 91  receives the game completion selection, the CPU  91  transmits a game completion signal to the main control device A 80 . If the game is not completed, the game is continued until a game completion selection is received.  
      In step SA 125 , seating is detected. Specifically, for example, the seating sensor installed in the seating part A 52  and/or the back rest A 53  detects seating of the player. If the seating sensor detects the seating of the player, the process returns to step SA  115 . In addition, if the seating sensor does not detect seating, the process proceeds to the processing in step SA 130  ( FIG. 11A ). In this way, whether the player has left the seat after completion of the game can be determined.  
      In step SA 130 , whether a card is inserted in the card slot SA 721  is determined. When the card sensor A 723  installed in the card slot A 721  detects the card, the card sensor A 723  transmits a signal to the CPU A 91  and the CPU A 91  transmits a first notification start signal (step SA 135 ). If the card sensor A 723  does not detect a card, the processing of the present flowchart is terminated. In other words, the card has been removed from the card slot A 721 .  
      In step SA 140 , a first notification is performed. This processing is described hereafter. This processing is performed by the input and output part A 94  via the sub-display part A 61 , which received the first notification start signal from the CPU A 91 , and the speaker A 75 . Then, if this processing is completed, the process proceeds to the processing in step SA 145 .  
      In step SA 145 , a time measurement/card detection processing is performed. This processing is described hereafter. This time measurement/card detection processing measures time from the first notification and detects whether the card has been removed from the card slot A 721  within a predetermined amount of time. In addition, this time measurement/card detection processing can be started almost simultaneously with the start of the first notification (step SA 140 ).  
      In step SA 150 , the CPU A 91  transmits a second notification start signal. In the stop SA 145 , when the insertion of a card in the card slot A 721  is detected after the passage of a predetermined amount of time, the CPU A 91  transmits a second notification start signal.  
      In step SA 155 , a second notification processing is performed. This processing is described hereafter. The second notification processing is performed by the input and output part A 94 , which received the second notification start signal from the CPU A 91  in step SA 150 , via the speaker A 75  and the lamp A 76 .  
      Although the second notification is performed by the speaker A 75  and the lamp A 76  in the present embodiment, it can be performed by either one, and furthermore, a message or the like can be displayed in the sub-display part A 61  or the staff can be notified by radio or the like.  
      In step SA 160 , the same time measurement/card detection processing as in step SA 145  is performed. Specifically, for example, the time from the second notification is measured and whether the card has been removed from the card slot A 721  within the predetermined amount of time is detected. In addition, this time measurement/card detection processing can be started almost simultaneously with the start of the second notification (step SA 155 ). When this processing is completed, the process proceeds to the processing in step SA 165 .  
      In step SA 165 , a card holding processing is performed. Specifically, for example, if the time from the second notification (step SA 155 ) is measured and a card is detected in the card slot A 721  by the card sensor A 723  after the passage of a predetermined amount of time, the card is temporarily pulled within the card slot A 721 , and a card holding part A 724  installed in the card slot A 721  holds the pulled-in card. If this processing is completed, the process proceeds to the processing in step SA 170 .  
      In step SA 170 , notification is performed. For example, if the card holding part A 724  holds the card, the card holding part A 724  transmits a card holding signal to the CPU A 91 , and the CPU A 91  which received this signal transmits a notification start signal to the input and output part A 94 . Then, the input and output part A 94  which received the notification start signal illuminates the lamp A 76 . This illumination can be an aspect differing from the illumination of the notification performed in the second notification processing (step SA 155 ). For example, it can be a color differing from that of the second notification or have a differing flashing pattern such as flashing three times consecutively.  
      In this way, the card can be pulled in and temporarily secured even if the player forgets the card and leaves the seat, and thus, theft of the card can be prevented, The held card is subsequently collected by the staff.  
      First Notification Processing  
       FIG. 12A  is a flowchart of the first notification processing.  
      First, in step SA 200 , the card reader/writer A 722 , the sub-display part A 61 , and the input and output part A 84  receive a first notification signal transmitted by the CPU A 91 .  
      In step SA 205 , the card readertwriter A 722  starts reading the card data by the first notification start signal. Alternatively, the CPU A 91  can read the data of the player stored temporarily in the memory A 92 . Then, the CPU A 91  obtains the stored player name (step SA 210 ). This player name can be the full name of the player or a name, such as a registration name, which is not limited to the user ID or the full name.  
      In step SA 215 , the CPU A 91  shows the player name obtained in step SA 210  and notification message in the sub-display part A 61 . This notification message can be text or can also be some sort of symbol or character, as well.  
      In step SA 220 , the CPU A 91  sound outputs the player name obtained in step SA 210  and predetermined notification message from the speaker A 75 , via the input and output part A 94 . This notification message is not limited to speech, and can be music or warning sounds. Although a sound volume which can only be heard by the player using the terminal device A 30  is preferable when giving this first notification, it is not limited thereto and the volume can be raised.  
      This first notification is given to alert the player using the terminal device. In this way, the player can retrieve his card without other players knowing that he forgot the card.  
      Time Measurement/card Detection Processing  
       FIG. 13A  is a flowchart showing the time measurement/card detection processing.  
      In step SA 300 , the time measurement part A 98  starts to measure time. Then, whether the card is removed from the card slot A 721  within the passage of a predetermined amount of time is determined (step SA 305 ). Specifically, for example, whether the card sensor A 723  detects the card is determined. If the card sensor A 723  detects the card, the process proceeds to the processing in step SA 310 . If the card sensor A 723  does not detect the card, the process returns to the flowchart in  FIG. 12A  and the processing is completed.  
      In step SA 310 , the CPU A 91  determines whether a predetermined amount of time has passed. If the predetermined amount of time has not passed, the process returns to the processing in step SA 305 . If the predetermined amount of time has passed, the present sub-routine is completed, and the process proceeds to the processing in step SA 150  or step SA 165  in  FIG. 11A .  
      Second Notification Processing  
       FIG. 14A  is a flowchart showing the second notification processing.  
      In step SA 400 , the input and output part A 94  receives the second notification start signal transmitted from the CPU A 91 . Then, the input and output part A 94  illuminates the lamp A 76  based on the signal received from the CPU A 91  (step SA 405 ). This illumination can be flashed at a predetermined interval, flashed in time with the sound output from the speaker A 75 , or the color thereof can be changed.  
      In step SA 405 , the input and output part A 94  outputs the notification message by sound, through the speaker A 75 . This notification message is not limited to speech, and can be music or warning sounds. When this second notification is given, instances in which the player is not in the vicinity of the terminal device can be considered because time has passed since the first notification. Therefore, because the purpose is not only to notify the player using the terminal device A 30  but also to notify and alert the staff, the sound volume is preferably loud. However, it is not limited thereto and can be low. When this processing is completed, the present sub-routine is completed and the process proceeds to the processing in step SA 160  ( FIG. 11A ).  
      The flowchart in  FIG. 15A  is explained as another embodiment.  FIG. 15A  is a flowchart showing a processing for notifying the player that he has forgotten his card by fixing the sub-display partA 61 .  
      In step SA 500 , the CPU A 91  determines whether the seating sensor installed in the seating part A 53  and/or the back rest A 53  of the seat part A 31  detects seating. If seating is detected, the process proceeds to the processing in step SA 505 . If seating is not detected, the process stands by until the seating sensor detects seating.  
      In step SA 505 , the CPU A 91  determines whether a card is inserted into card slot A 721 . Specifically, for example, this is determined by whether the card sensor S 723 , installed in the card slot A 721 , detects a card. If the card sensor A 723  detects the card, the process proceeds to the processing in step SA 510 . If the card sensor A 723  does not detect the card, the process returns to the processing in step SA 500 .  
      In step SA 510 , the start of a game is determined. Specifically, when a game is started, the CPU A 91  transmits a game start signal to the main control device A 80 . Then, the game starts. If the game start signal is not transmitted, the game does not start. If the game is not started, the process proceeds to the processing in step SA 520 .  
      Whether the game is completed is determined in step SA 515 . Specifically, for example, a selection stating the completion of the game is entered in the input operation part A 72 , in the operation in the game, and received by the CPU A 91 . If the CPU A 91  receives the game completion selection, the CPU A 91  transmits a game completion signal to the main control device A 80  and terminates the game. If the game is not completed, the game is continued until the game completion selection is received.  
      In step SA 520 , card detection is performed. The CPU A 91  determines whether a card is inserted into the card slot A 721 . Specifically, for example, this is determined by whether the card sensor S 723 , installed in the card slot A 721 , detects a card. If the card sensor A 723  detects the card, the process proceeds to the processing in step SA 525 . If the card sensor A 723  does not detect the card, the process is completed.  
      In stop SA 525 , the CPU A 91  transmits a sub-display fixation signal. This signal is for notifying that the card is inserted in the card slot A 721  by fixing the sub-display part and getting in the way when the player attempts to stand. By this sub-display fixation signal, the connection parts A 615  and A 616  of the sub-display part A 61  and a fixation part are fixed (step SA 530 ). In addition, simultaneously with the fixation of the sub-display part A 61 , notification can be given by the sub-monitor A 613  of the sub-display part A 61 , the speaker A 75  and the lamp A 76 .  
      In stop SA 535 , the CPU A 91  detects the card. Specifically, for example, whether the card sensor A 723 , installed in the card slot A 721 , detects the card, is determined. If the card sensor A 723  detects the card, the process proceeds to the process in step SA 530 . If the card sensor A 723  does not detect the card, the fixation of sub-display part A 61  is released (step SA 540 ) and the processing is completed.  
      Notification through fixation of the sub-display part can be performed as the first notification and/or the second notification in the main flowchart shown in  FIG. 11A  and  FIG. 12A , as described in  FIG. 16A .  
      In addition, the first notification and/or second notification and notification by the fixation of the sub-display part A 61  can be performed simultaneously. In this case, the CPU A 91  transmits a sub-display fixation signal when transmitting the first notification start signal. In addition, if the card is not detected (steps SA 305  and SA 535 ), the CPU A 91  transmits the sub-display fixation release signal.  
      According to the present embodiment, the following effects can be obtained.  
      (1) Because notification is given when the card is in the card slot A 721  regardless of the player leaving the seat, it is possible to prevent the card from being forgotten. Furthermore, because individual data of the player regarding the game and credit information are stored on the card, the game can be continued using this individual data. In addition, there are instances in which the player&#39;s sense of enjoyment can be continued by preventing the card from being left behind in this way.  
      (2) Because credit information is stored on the card, giving it so-called monetary value, the importance of the card to the player is increased, thus, encouraging players keep the card in mind so as to eliminate cards from getting left behind.  
      (3) If a card is in the card slot A 721  regardless of the player leaving the seat, it is possible to prevent the card from being forgotten. Furthermore, because individual data of the player regarding the game and credit information are stored on the card, the game can be continued using this individual data. In addition, there are instances in which the player&#39;s sense of enjoyment can be continued by preventing the card from being left behind in this way.  
      (4) For example, first notification by sound from the speaker A 75  and display in the sub-monitor A 613  is performed. Then, if the card is still in the card slot A 721  after the first notification, notification is given by sound from the speaker and light from the lamp A 76 . Thus, it is possible to prevent the card from being left behind by alerting the player again.  
      (5) Because the sub-monitor is fixed when the player attempts to leave his seat without removing the card when the game is completed, the display part can get in the way and prevent the player from leaving his seat. In this way. there are instances in which the player can realize that he has forgotten his card, thus, preventing the card from being left behind.  
      (6) If the player has left the card behind regardless of the notifications, the card can be held in the card holding part A 724 , after the passage of a predetermined amount of time. Therefore, even if the card has been left behind, it is held by the card holding part A 724 , and the possibility of theft by another person can be reduced.  
      (7) Because the terminal device A 30  can move, a new sense of enjoyment can be provided to the player and the diminishing of enjoyment of the game can be prevented.  
      The preferred embodiments of the present invention are described below, with reference to the drawings.  
      Overall Configuration of the Game Machine  
       FIG. 1B  is a perspective view showing an outward aspect of the game machine  1  according to an embodiment of the present invention.  
      The game machine  1  is a multi-player game machine, including a main game machine body B 20  which includes a flat, rectangular play area B 21  and a plurality of terminal devices B 30  which are placed on this play area B 21 .  
      Aside from the play area B 21 , the main game machine body B 20  includes a main display device B 22  which is placed along one side of the play area B 21 , a speaker device B 23  which is placed in the four corners of the play area B 21 , and a main control device B 80  for controlling these main display device B 22  and speaker device B 23 .  
      The play area B 21  is divided into a plurality of sub-areas B 212 . As these sub-areas B 212 , there are city areas B 212 A, ocean areas B 212 B, and forest areas B 212 C. In addition, IC tags B 211  are buried in grid-form in the play area B 21 . Positional information of the inside of the play area B 21  is stored to this IC tag B 211 .  
      The main display device B 22  is a large projector display device. The main display device B 22  is not limited thereto and can also be a large monitor.  
      The main control device B 80  can communicate with each terminal device B 30  bi-directionally through wireless LAN and can provide each player with a common virtual space by executing the predetermined game program and bi-directionally communicating with each terminal device B 30 .  
      Each terminal device B 30  is placed facing towards the main display device B 22 . This terminal device B 30  is connected to the main control device B 80  through wireless LAN and can be moved over the play area B 21  according to the instructions from the main control device B 80  or by player operation.  
       FIG. 2B  is a perspective view showing an outward aspect of each terminal device B 30 .  
      The terminal device B 30  includes a seat B 31 , a traveling part B 32  which supports this seat B 31  from beneath and, in addition, moves it over the player area B 21 , a hook B 40  to which belongings are hung, and a belongings camera B 42  for photographing the belongings hung on the hook B 40 .  
      Configuration of the Seat  
       FIG. 3B  is a perspective view of the seat B 31  The configuration is described hereafter, using  FIG. 2B  and  FIG. 3B .  
      Seat B 31  includes a main seat body B 50  ( FIG. 3B ), a side unit  660  ( FIG. 3B ) which is provided along one side surface of the main seat body B 50 , and a seat shell B 70  ( FIG. 3B ) which surrounds the main seat body B 50  on three sides, excluding the other side surface side.  
      The main seat body B 50  includes a flat base part B 51  ( FIG. 2B ), a seating part B 52  ( FIG. 3B ) which is provided on this base part B 51 , a back rest B 53  ( FIG. 3B ) which is attached to enable changing of its angle to the seating part B 52 , a head rest B 54  ( FIG. 3B ) which is provided on the top part of the back rest B 53 , and a pair of side arms B 55  ( FIG. 38 ) which are provided in positions on the seat surface of the seating part B 52  and both sides of the back rest B 53 .  
      The seating part B 52  moves back and forth on the base part B 51  when the player operates the input operation part B 72  ( FIG. 2B ). In the main seat body B 50 , this seating part B 52  can be slid back and forth and, at the same time, the back rest BS 3  can recline backwards and form a bed.  
      The seating part  852  includes a leg rest B 521  ( FIG. 3B ) which is provided on the front surface side and a foot rest B 522  ( FIG. 3B ) which is stored in the tip of this leg rest B 521 . The leg rest  8521  turns upward according to the sliding motion, when the seating part B 52  is slid forward, and becomes a seat surface which continues from the seat surface of the seating part B 52 . At the same time, the foot rest B 522  projects from the leg rest B 521  and becomes a seat surface which continues from the leg rest B 521 .  
      A bag component, into which air can be injected, is embedded respectively within the seat surface of the seating part B 52 , the lower part of the back rest B 53  (which comes into contact with the lower back of the player) and the head rest BE 4 . When air is injected into these bag components by an air pump, the surface swells and can support the user while accommodating the contours of the body surface of the user.  
      In addition, a seating sensor, not shown, for detecting that a player is seated is embedded in the seating part B 52  or the back rest B 53 . This seating sensor is a weight sensor or a pressure sensor which detects the pressure applied when a player is seated. When the seating sensor detects seating, a lock start signal for operating the hook B 40  is transmitted. If seating is not detected, a lock release signal is transmitted.  
      The sub-display part B 61  ( FIG. 28  and  FIG. 3B ) which is configured to include a liquid crystal display panel is stored in the side unit B 60 .  
      As shown in  FIG. 2B , the sub-display part B 61  includes a first support arm B 611  which is supported by the side unit B 60 , a second support arm B 612  which is attached to the tip of the first support arm B 611 , and a flat, rectangular sub-monitor B 613  which is attached to the tip of the second support arm B 612  and performs liquid crystal display.  
      The first support arm B 611  can be extended and retracted freely in the direction vertical to the side unit B 60 . The second support arm B 612  can extend and retract freely and can be fixed to an arbitrary angle to the axis direction of the first support arm B 611 . The sub-monitor B 613  can be fixed to an arbitrary angle to the axis direction of the second support arm B 612 .  
      A small CCD camera B 614  is embedded into the sub-monitor B 613 . This CCD camera B 614  is used when creating an avatar in the game field. The image taken by the CCD camera B 614  is displayed constantly in the sub-display part B 61  in the terminal device B 30 , by operating an input operation part B 72  (described hereafter). Because the expressions of the player per se can be viewed during the game in this way, enjoyment increases. In this case, the photographed image can be shown on the entire screen of the sub-monitor B 613  or in one section of the screen.  
      A sub-monitor storage space B 62  which extends in the vertical direction is provided in the side unit B 60 , and the foregoing first support arm B 611 , a second support arm B 612 , and a sub-monitor B 613  are stored within the sub-monitor storage space B 62 .  
      A sub-control device B 90  which is connected by wireless LAN to the main control device B 80  and a plurality of board storage slots B 97  which configure this sub-control device B 90  are provided within the side unit B 60 .  
      The sub-control device B 90  controls the sub-display part B 61  and the traveling part B 32 , based on instructions from the main control device B 80 , as well as transmitting signals input by the input operation part B 72  (described hereafter) to the main control device B 80 .  
      A cover part B 971  is provided to open and close freely on the upper part of the board storage slots B 97 . By opening the cover part B 971  and inserting a terminal control board B 972  from above, as shown in  FIG. 2B , the terminal control board B 972  can be attached to the board storage slot B 97 .  
      The back-side of the seat shell B 70  extends upward and can support the back rest B 53  and the head rest B 54 . In addition, speakers B 75  are provided on both sides of the head rest B 54  of the seat shell B 70 .  
      The back-sides of the side surfaces of the seat shell B 70  extends upward so that the player seated in the main seat body B 50  cannot be viewed by other players.  
      A table B 71  ( FIG. 2B ) is attached from one side surface of the main seat body B 50  to the front surface, on the upper edge of the seat shell B 70 . The space beneath this table B 71  accepts the leg rest B 521  and the foot rest B 522  which is provided by rotating a part of the leg rest B 521 .  
      The input operation part B 72  ( FIG. 2B ), configured by a keyboard, a jog dial and the like, is provided in the vicinity of the side arm B 55  on the table B 71 . A card slot B 721  for inserting credit cards and membership cards is provided and a sensor, not shown, for detecting the insertion of the card is installed in this input operation part B 72 .  
      Although the input operation part B 72  is provided on the table B 71  in the present embodiment, this is not limited thereto, and can be provided as a touch-panel on the sub monitor B 613 .  
      A medal payout opening B 731  from which medals are paid out from a medal collection part B 73  provided within the side unit B 60 , a medal receiving part B 732  for receiving the medals which are paid out, and a medal insertion part B 734  to which medals are inserted are provided below the table B 71  and in front of the side arm B 55 . A holder B 733  for attaching the medal receiving part B 732  is provided in the medal reception part A 732 , in addition, a sensor for detecting that a medal is inserted is installed in the medal insertion part A 734 . For example, this medal can be paid out according to the betting odds of an event within the game program, For example, predetermined odds (betting odds) are stipulated to the participants for a certain event (win/loss of horse-racing, combat, etc.), similar to a book-maker, and the player bets on the object of his choice. Then, medals are paid out based on the odds, according to the win/loss results. The prize resulting from this book-maker is not limited to medals and can be items within the game environment.  
      A hook B 40  (described hereafter) on which belongings are hung and a belongings camera B 42  are provided on the outside of the seat shell B 70 . Although the hook B 40 A ( FIG. 2B ) is provided on the outside of the seat shell B 70 , this is not limited thereto, and can be provided below the table B 71  (B 40 C;  FIG. 3B ) or on the back surface of the back rest B 53  (B 40 B;  FIG. 3B ). In addition, the hook B 40 B is not limited to the back surface of the back rest B 53  and can be provided on the lower part of the side arm B 55 . The hook B 40  is not limited to one location and can also be provided in plural locations. A belongings holder B 41  for placing belongings can also be provided below the hook B 40 .  
      In addition, a belongings camera B 42  is provided above the hook B 40 . This belongings camera B 42  faces the hook part below, and photography starts when a stopper B 413 , described hereafter extends and the upper aperture of the hook enters a closed state. In other words, when the CPU B 91  transmits a lock start signal to the hook, a photography start signal is transmitted to the belongings camera simultaneously, and the belongings camera B 42  receives the photography start signal and starts photography. The photographed images are shown on the sub-monitor B 613 . This image can be shown constantly on the sub-monitor or shown by operation of the input operation part B 72  by the player. In this case, the photographed image can be shown on the entire screen of the sub-monitor or shown in one part of the screen.  
       FIG. 4B  and  FIG. 5B  are enlarged perspective views of the hook B 40 . The hook P 40  includes a main hook body B 411 , a hook control device B 412  for receiving lock start signals and lock release signals, described hereafter and extending a stopper, a stopper B 413  which is configured by an electric actuator (not shown), a stopper storage part B 414  in which the electric actuator is stored, and a lamp B 416 . In addition, a sensor B 415  is provided in the balancing support part B 417  of the main hook body B 411 .  
      Specifically, if some kind of a load, such as belongings being hung, is applied to the balancing support part B 417  of the main hook body B 411 , the sensor B 415  detects that a load is applied and transmits a lock start signal to the hook control device B 412 . The hook control device B 412  which receives the signal drives the motor of the electric actuator to extend the stopper B 413 , and extends the stopper B 413  from the stopper opening B 418 , as in  FIG. 6B . The lock signal is not limited to detection by the sensor B 415  and can also be transmitted by detection by the seating sensor embedded in the seating part B 52  or the back rest B 53  or detection of the transmission of the game start signal from the CPU B 91  to the main control device B 80 .  
      The sensor B 415  can be a weight sensor which detects weight, but is not limited to weight, and can be a touch sensor for detecting that the belongings are touching the sensor or a so-called presence detection sensor, such as an infrared sensor or a light sensor.  
      In addition, the contact part B 419  of the balancing support part B 417  which is in contact with the stopper B 413  has a concave cavity-shape in order to fit the tip part of the stopper B 413 . The tip part of the stopper B 413  fits into this depression. Then, when the stopper B 413  is extended, a lamp B 416 , which is provided outside of the balancing support part B 417  is lit.  
      Furthermore, by receiving a lock start signal from the CPU B 91 , the electric actuator for extending the stopper B 413  is locked and the stopper B 413  is fixed.  
      The stopper B 413  is can be fixed when the sensor B 415  detects the belongings, transmits the lock start signal, and the hook control device B 412  receives the signal or simultaneously with the stopper B 413  extending and coming into contact with the contact part B 419 .  
      In addition, in order to release the lock, the hook control device B 412  receives a lock release signal from the CPU B 91 . In this way, the fixation of the stopper B 413  can be released, and when the lock release signal is received by the hook control device B 412  again, the electric actuator can operate to store the stopper B 413  into the stopper storage part B 414  and the hook B 40  can enter an opened state. The fixation of the stopper B 413  can also be released and the stopper B 413  can be stored with the reception of one lock release signal.  
      As shown in  FIG. 7B , the risk of theft of the hung belongings can be circumvented by extending and fixing the stopper B 413 .  
       FIG. 8B  is a block diagram of an overall configuration of the game machine B 1 .  
      In this game machine B 1 , the main control device B 80  of the main game machine body B 20  had a wireless communication part B 83  and the sub-control device B 90  of the terminal device B 30  has a wireless communication part B 93 , These wireless communication parts B 83  and B 93  can be interconnected by a wireless LAN, and thus, the transfer of sound data and character data can be performed between the main control device B 80  and the sub-control device B 90   
      Configuration of the Main Control Device  
       FIG. 9B  is a block diagram showing the configuration of the main control device B 80 .  
      The main control device B 80  has a CPU B 81 , a memory B 82 , a wireless communication part B 83 , and a database B 84 , which are connected to a data bus B 89 .  
      The wireless communication part B 83  includes a transceiving circuit part (RF) B 85  for transmitting and receiving signals with the sub-control device B 90 , and a base band processing part B 86  for converting RF (Radio Frequency) signals received by the transceiving circuit part B 85  into bass band signals and also converting base band signals to be transmitted into RF signals.  
      The database B 84  is a circuit board which includes a memory part to which a game program is stored or a storage medium (for example, a hard disk or ROM cassette) to which the game program is stored.  
      Specifically, a slot to which these circuit boards and storage mediums can be attached and removed is provided in the main control device B 80 . By attaching and removing these circuit boards and storage mediums from the slot, the game program stored to the database B 84  can be replaced, accordingly, and other game programs can be executed. Replacing the game program is not limited to that via hardware, as such, and the game program can be replaced directly by downloading via a communication circuit.  
      The CPU B 81  performs various processing according to the game program.  
      In other words, the CPU B 81  reads the game program stored in the database B 84  and runs the game according to this game program.  
      During the game, the CPU B 81  extracts the game program, information expressing the game status corresponding to the time-line in the game field at the time (namely, information expressing events and the like occurring in the game field) from the database B 84  and transmits this to the terminal device B 30 , which is the request source, via wireless LAN. In addition, the CPU B 81  receives information expressing the operation results of the player from each terminal device B 30  and stores this in the memory B 82 , via wireless LAN.  
      The CPU B 81  runs the game and stores the progress results of the game program to the database B 84 , based on the information expressing the operation results of the player stored to the memory B 82 .  
      Here, the information expressing the operation results of the player are, for example, selection results by the player from a selection shown to the player via the terminal device B 30 , based on the progress of the game program, or the results of the operation performed by the player of the character appearing in the game, and is information transmitted from the terminal device B 30  as a result of the player operating their respective terminal devices A 30 . Other players can check the progress status of the current game stored in this database A 84  (for example, high-score information, etc.)  
      Configuration of the Sub-Control Device  
       FIG. 10B  is a block diagram showing the configuration of the sub-control device B 90 .  
      The sub-control device B 90  has a CPU B 91 , a memory B 92 , a wireless communication part B 93 , and an input and output part B 94  which is the interface with the speaker B 75 , which are connected to a data bus B 99 .  
      The wireless communication part B 93  includes a transceiving circuit part (RF) B 95  for transmitting and receiving signals with the main control device B 80 , and a base band processing part B 96  for converting RF (Radio Frequency) signals received by the transceiving circuit part B 95  into base band signals and also converting base band signals to be transmitted into RF signals.  
      In addition, the sub-control device B 90  controls the sub-display part B 61 , driving control device B 322 , and direction control device B 323 , based on the input signals from the input operation part B 72 , medal insertion part B 734 , hook B 40 , CCD camera B 73 , belongings camera B 42 , timer B 98 , card slot B 721 , and IC tag detection part B 324 .  
      The CPU B 91  executes various operations according to the operation programs stored in the memory B 92  and control respective circuit parts and devices according to the operations.  
      Sound signals from the main control device B 80  are output from the speaker B 75  through the following procedure.  
      When the RF signal is received from the main control device B 80 , the transceiving circuit part B 95  supplies this signal to the base band processing part B 96  and converts this RF signal to a base band signal. The base band processing part B 96  outputs this base band signal to the speaker B 75 , via the input and output part B 94 . Then, this base band signal is output from the speaker B 75  as sound.  
      Furthermore, when the player operates the input operation part B 72 , after converting various information (text information, specific selection information, etc.) input by operating the input operation part B 72  into packet data, the CPU B 91  transmits this to the main control device B 80 , via the band base processing part B 96  and the transceiving circuit part B 95 . At this time, each terminal device B 30  can be identified regardless of the position the terminal devices B 30  are placed on the play area B 21 .  
      Similarly, the CPU B 91  converts positional information read from the IC tag B 211  by the IC tag detection part B 324  and image information perceived by the CCD camera B 73  into packet data and transmits this to the main control device B 80 .  
      On the other hand, when an RF signal to which information converted into packet data is superimposed is transmitted from the main control device B 80 , the CPU B 91  receives this RF signal via the transceiving circuit part B 95  and the base band processing part B 96 , displays it in the sub-display part B 61  and, in addition, controls the driving control device B 322  and the direction control device B 323  of the traveling part B 32 .  
      In this way, the player seated in the terminal device B 30  can communicate various information with the main control device B 80 .  
      Specifically, the CPU B 91  performs the following operations.  
      In other words, when the CPU B 91  receives the game program and information expressing the game status corresponding to the time-line in the game field at that time from the main control device B 80 , various occurrences, such as events, occurring in the game field at this time is shown in the main display device B 22 , according to the game program, after storing the information, such as the game program, transmitted from the main control device B 89  in the memory B 82 .  
      Furthermore, the CPU B 91  can always confirm the current position of the terminal device B 30  within the play area B 21  by reading the positional information from the IC tag B 211  by the IC tag detection part B 324 , Then, the CPU B 91  receives specification of the position on the play area B 21  from the main control device, controls the driving control device B 322  and the direction control device B 323  of the traveling part B 32  based on the signal from the IC tag detection part B 324 , and moves the terminal device B 30  to a predetermined position within the play area B 21 .  
      In addition, by operating the input operation part B 72  while viewing the game content (image, letter information, etc.) shown in the sub-display part B 61 , the player using respective terminal device B 30  can operate the characters shown in the main display device B 22 , participate in the progress of the game by operations such as selecting from a selection by letters, and move the terminal device B 30  to an designated position on the play area B 21 .  
      Lock Start Processing  
       FIG. 11B  is a flowchart of a processing for starting the lock of the hook B 41  in one example of a preferred embodiment of the present invention.  
      First, the CPU B 91  determines the availability of belongings detection, game medium insertion detection, seating detection or game start detection (step SB 100 ). The belonging detection is performed by the sensor B 415 . This sensor B 415  can be a weight sensor or a so-called presence detection sensor, such as a touch sensor. In addition, the game medium insertion detection is performed by a sensor installed in the card slot B 721  or a sensor installed in the medal insertion part B 734 . In addition, the seating detection is performed by a seating sensor, and the game start is detected by the CPU B 91  transmitting a game start signal to the main control device B 80 . If these are not detected, the game machine stands by until they are detected.  
      When belongings, game medium, seating, or game start is detected, the CPU B 91  transmits a lock start signal to the hook control device B 412  (step SB 105 ). The hook control device B 412  which receives the look start signal drives the electric actuator within the stopper storage part B 414  and extends the stopper B 413  (step SB 110 ). When the stopper B 413  contacts the contact part B 418 , the electric actuator can be looked and the stopper B 413  can be fixed.  
      In step SB 115 , confirmation display is performed in the sub-monitor B 613 . For example, a display such as “Do you want to lock the hook?” is performed. This confirmation can be changed to the sub-monitor B 613  or can be both through both display and sound, as well,  
      In step SB 120 , the CPU B 91  determines whether to lock the hook. This determination is made by showing selection choices when showing the confirmation display in step SB 115  and the player selecting a selection choice via the input operation part B 72 . If the CPU  91  receives an input of the selection choice, “Do not lock”, the process proceeds to the processing in step SB 122 . In addition, if an input of the selection choice “Lock” is received, the process proceeds to the processing in step SB 130 .  
      In step SB 122 , the CPU  91  determines whether the sensor B 41  detects belongings. If the sensor B 415  detects belongings, the process returns to step SB 115 . In addition, if the sensor B 415  does not detect belongings, the sensor B 415  transmits a lock release signal (step SB 124 ) and the hook control device B 412  returns the stopper to its original state (step SB 126 ). This is an instance, for example, when the belongings are hung on the hook B 40  once but then are lifted up to be removed from the hook in order to move to another seat or the like.  
      In step SB 120 , when the CPU B 91  receives input for performing lock from the input operation part or the like by the player, the CPU B 91  transmits a lock start signal to the hook control device B 412  (step SB 130 ). Then, the hook control device B 412  locks the electric actuator and locks the stopper B 413  (step SB 140 ). When this processing is completed, the present flowchart is completed.  
      Lock Release Processing  
       FIG. 12B  is a flowchart of a processing for releasing the lock of the hook B 40 , in one example of a preferred embodiment of the present invention.  
      First, in step SB 200 , it is determined whether the game is completed or the player has left the seat. Specifically, the game is completed when the CPU B 91  transmits a game completion signal to the main control device B 80 , and the player has left the seat when the seating sensor embedded in the seating part B 52  or the back rest B 53  of the main seat body B 50  does not detect seating. Then, if the sensor B 415  does not detect game completion or leaving of the seat, the game machines stands by until it is detected. In addition, when the game completion or leaving of the seat is detected, the process proceeds to the processing in step SB 205 .  
      In step SB 206 , the lock release signal is transmitted. The CPU B 91  transmits the lock release signal when the CPU B 91  transmits a game completion signal to the main control device B 80  in step SB 200 . In addition, if the seating sensor does not detect seating, the seating sensor transmits a lock release signal.  
      In step SB 202 , the timer B 98  starts to measure time. Then, in step SB 210 , lock release notification is performed. Specifically, the CPU B 91 , which received the lock release signal transmitted in step SB 205 , displays message, symbols, and the like stating that the lock has been released on the sub-monitor B 613 . In addition, the hook control device B 412  which received the lock release signal flashes the lamp B 416  of the hook B 40 . This notification can be given by sound via the speaker B 75  by instruction sent from the CPU B 91  to the input and output part B 94 .  
      In step B 212 , the CPU B 91  determines whether a predetermined amount of time has passed. Specifically, whether the time measured by the timer B 98  in step SB 202  has exceeded a predetermined amount of time is determined, This predetermined amount of time can, for example, be set beforehand, presuming the time until player reaches the hook B 40  from the detection of the player leaving the seat or the game completion. If it is determined that the predetermined amount of time has not passed, the process returns to the processing in step SB 210 . If it is determined that the predetermined amount of time has passed, the process proceeds to the processing in step SB 215 .  
      Then, the CPU B 91  transmits the lock release signal to the hook control device B 412 , and the hook control device B 412  releases the lock of the stopper B 413  (step SB 215 ). Furthermore, if the sensor B 415  does not detect the belongings because the player has lifted up the belongings or the like, the sensor B 415  transmits a lock release signal (step SB 225 ), and the hook control device B 412  opens the stopper (step SB 230 ). Although the lock of the stopper B 413  is released in stop SB 215  and the stopper B 413  is opened in step SB 230 , the stopper B 413  can be opened when the lock is released, as well.  
      In addition, although the hook B 40  is provided on the outside of the seat shell B 70 , the back surface of the back rest B 53  of the main seat body B 50 , or under the table B 71 , when storing the belongings, it is not limited thereto.  
      In addition, as another embodiment, rather than the game machine B 1  being configured by the main game machine B 20  and the terminal device B 30 , it can be configured so that the game can be played by the terminal device alone. In this case, in the configuration of the sub-control device B 90  ( FIG. 10B ), a database for storing the game program and memory are included, as in the main control device B 80 . Furthermore, the CPU B 91  reads the game program stored in the database to the memory, displays image in the sub-display part B 61  according to the game program and runs the game. Then, the hook control device B 412  can extend and retract the stopper B 413  of the hook B 40  according to the game start signals and the game completion signals transmitted by the CPU B 91  and perform lock and lock release.  
      According to the present embodiment, the following effects are attained.  
      (1) The hook B 40 , which is normally in an unlocked state, enters a locked state when a game start signal is received from the control B 90  and moves to an unlocked state when a game completion signal is received. In this way, because a key or the like for locking the hook B 40  is not required, the player can concentrate on the game without thinking about the whereabouts of the key or theft of his belongings, and the player&#39;s sense of enjoyment can be enhanced.  
      (2) Because a hook B 40 B is provide for hanging the belongings on the back surface of the main seat body B 50  of the terminal device B 30 , and the hook B 40  locks when the player hangs his belongings on the hook B 40 B, the risk theft of belonging during a game can be reduced. In this way, because this operation is performed automatically the player does not have to lock the hook manually and a game machine B 1  which enable a reduced risk of theft of belongings can be provided.  
      (3) The stopper B 413  of the hook B 40  is extended according to the seating of the player in seat B 31 , and the hook B 40  can be locked. Because the hook B 40  can be locked automatically when the player sits, the player does not have to lock the hook manually and a game machine B 1  which enables a reduced risk of theft of belongings can be provided.  
      (4) The lock of the stopper B 413  of the hook B 40  can be released by transmitting a lock release signal according to when the player left the seat. Then, because the player does not have to lock the hook manually, a key or the like for locking the hook B 40  is not required, and the player is freed from the management of a key, a game machine B 1  which enables the player to concentrate further and enjoy the game more can be provided.  
      (5) Because the lock of the hook B 40  is released after a predetermined amount of time has passed from when the player left his seat, the hook B 40  can remain in a locked state from when the player leaves his seat until he reaches the location of the hook B 40 . Thus, theft of the belongings until the player reaches the location of the hook B 40 , due to the lock being released immediately after the player leaves his seat, can be prevented.  
      (6) Because the hook B 40 A is attached to not only the main body of the terminal device B 30 , but also the outside of the seat shell B 70 , covering the terminal device B 30 , the belongings do not have to be placed within the seat shell B 70 . In this way, the belongings do not get in the way of the game, and a game machine B 1  which enables the provision of an environment enabling the player to concentrate on the game further can be provided.  
      (7) Because a belongings camera photographs an image of the object-to-be-hung when the upper aperture of the hook B 40  is in a closed state, and this image is shown in the display part, the player can check the state of his belongings at any time. Thus, the fear of the theft of belongings can be reduced. In addition, a game machine B 1  which enables the provision of an environment enabling the player to concentrate on the game further and which enhances the sense of enjoyment of the player can be provided.  
      (8) Because a lockable hook B 40  is attached to a mobile terminal device B 30 , a game can be played without the belongings getting thrown down, even when the terminal device moves. In this way, because the risk of theft due to the belongings getting thrown down is reduced, a game machine B 1  which enables the player to concentrate on the game further and which enhances the sense of enjoyment of the player can be provided.  
      The game machine of the present embodiment is described hereafter.  
       FIG. 1C  is a perspective view showing an outward aspect of the game machine C 1  according to an embodiment of the present invention.  
      The game machine C 1  is a multi-player game machine, in which multiple players participate, including a main game machine body C 20  which includes a flat, rectangular play area C 21  and a plurality of terminal devices C 30  which are placed on this play area C 21 .  
      Aside from the play area  021 , the main game machine body C 20  includes a main display device C 22  which is placed along one side of the play area C 21 , a speaker device C 23  which is placed in the four comers of the play area C 21 , and a main control device C 80  for controlling these main display device C 22  and speaker device C 23 .  
      The play area C 21  is divided into a plurality of sub-areas C 212 . As these sub-areas C 212 , there are city areas C 212 A, ocean areas C 212 B, and forest areas C 212 C. In addition, IC tags C 211  are buried in grid-form in the play area C 21 . Positional information of the inside of the play area C 21  is stored to this IC tag A 211 .  
      The main display device A 22  is a large projector display device. Although a large projector display device is implemented in the present embodiment, it is not limited thereto in the present invention and can be a large monitor.  
      The main control device C 80  can communicate with each terminal device C 30  bi-directionally through wireless LAN and can provide each player with a common virtual space by executing the predetermined game program and bi-directionally communicating with each terminal device C 30 .  
      Configuration of the Terminal Device  
       FIG. 2C  is a perspective view showing an outward aspect of each terminal device C 30 .  
      The terminal device C 30  includes a seat C 31 , a main terminal device body C 30 A, a liquid crystal display device C 61 , and a traveling part C 32  which is provided beneath the main terminal device body C 30 A and moves the terminal device C 30  over the player area C 21 .  
      The terminal device C 30  is placed in a state facing the main display device C 22 . This terminal device C 30  is connected to the main control device C 80  by wireless LAN and can be moved over the player area C 21  in adherence to instructions from the main control device C 80  or operations by the player.  
      The main terminal device body C 30 A includes a seat C 50 , a side unit C 60  which is provided along one side surface of the seat C 50 , and a seat shell C 70  which is attached behind the seat C 50  and in front of the seat C 50 , an input operation part C 72  for receiving input from the player, and a medal collection part C 83  including a medal insertion part C 74  to which medals are inserted and the like.  
       FIG. 3C  is a perspective view of the main terminal device body C 30 A in seat mode.  FIG. 4C  is a perspective view of the main terminal device body C 30 A in bed mode.  
      As shown in  FIG. 3C  and  FIG. 4C , the seat C 50  can be adjusted to seat mode and bed mode and the gradient of the seat can be adjusted in multiple steps, between the seat mode and the bed mode, as well.  
      The seat C 50  includes a flat base part C 51 , a seating part C 52  which is provided on this base part C 51 , a back rest C 53  which is attached to enable changing of its angle to the seating part C 52 , a head rest C 54  which is provided on the top part of the back rest C 53 , and a pair of side arms C 55  which are provided in positions on the seat surface of the seating part  52  and both sides of the back rest.  
      The seating part C 52  moves back and forth on the base part C 51  when the player operates the input operation part C 72 . The main seat body C 50  changes from the seat mode shown in  FIG. 3C  to the bed mode shown in  FIG. 4C , when this seating part C 52  is slid forward, and forms a bed.  
      The seating part  052  includes a leg rest C 521  which is provided on the front surface side and a foot rest C 522  which is stored in the tip of this leg rest C 521 . The leg rest C 521  turns upward according to the sliding motion, when the seating part C 52  is slid forward, and becomes a seat surface which continues from the seat surface of the seating part C 52 . At the same time, the foot rest C 522  projects from the leg rest C 521  and becomes a seat surface which continues from the leg rest C 521 .  
      The back rest C 53  falls backward, according to the back and forth movement of the seat part C 52  on the base part C 51 .  
      The front surface side of the side arm C 55  turns slightly upward, when the main seat body C 51  is placed in bed mode.  
      A bag component, into which air can be injected, is embedded respectively within the seat surface of the seating part  5 C 2 , the lower part of the back rest C 53  (which comes into contact with the lower back of the player) and the head rest C 54 . When air is injected into these bag components by an air pump, the surface swells and can support the user while accommodating the contours of the body surface of the user.  
      A liquid crystal-monitor storage space C 62  which extends in the vertical direction is provided in the side unit A 60 , and the foregoing first support arm A 611 . a second support arm A 612 , and a liquid crystal monitor A 613  are stored within the liquid crystal monitor storage space A 62 .  
      A sub-control device C 90  which is connected by wireless LAN to the main control device C 80  and a plurality of board storage slots C 97  which configure this sub-control device C 90  are provided within the side unit C 60 .  
      The sub-control device CGO controls the transmitting part C 64  for transmitting game images to the liquid crystal display device C 61 , a liquid crystal monitor driving control device C 63  for driving the liquid crystal display device C 61 , and the traveling part C 32 , based on instructions from the main control device A 80 , as well as transmitting signals input by the input operation part C 72  (described hereafter) to the main control device C 80 . The transmission of game image from the transmitting part C 64  to the liquid crystal display device C 61  can be by a wired or wireless connection.  
      A cover part C 97 A is provided to open and close freely on the upper part of the board storage slots C 97 . By opening the cover part C 97 A and inserting a terminal control board C 97 B from above, as shown in  FIG. 2C , the terminal control board C 97 B can be attached to the board storage slot C 97 .  
      The back-sides of the side surfaces of the seat shell C 70  extends upward, such that the player seated in the main seat body C 50  cannot be viewed by other players. In addition, the seat shell C 70  can support the back rest C 53  and the head rest CM. Furthermore, speakers C 75  are provided on both sides of the head rest C 54  of the seat shell C 70 .  
      A table C 71  is attached from one side surface of the seat C 50  to the front surface, on the upper edge of the seat shell C 70 . The space beneath this table C 71  accepts the leg rest C 521  and the foot rest C 52  when the seat C 50  is placed in bed mode.  
      The input operation part C 72  is provided in the vicinity of the side arm C 55  on the table C 71 , or in other words, a position wherein the player can perform operations while seated in the seat C 50 , and includes a keyboard, a jog dial and the like. A card slot C 72 A for inserting credit cards and membership cards is provided in this input operation part C 72 , and a sensor (not shown) for detecting the insertion of the card is installed. Although the input operation part C 72  is provided on the table  7 C 1  in the present embodiment, this is not limited thereto in the present invention, and can be provided as a touch-panel part on the liquid crystal monitor  613 .  
      A medal insertion part  734 , a medal insertion detector  735  is placed in the vicinity of the medal insertion part  73 A and detects the insertion of the medal.  
      A medal payout opening C 73 A from which medals are paid out from a medal collection part  73  provided within the side unit C 60 , a medal receiving part C 73 B for receiving the medals which are paid out, and a medal insertion part C 74  to which medals are inserted are provided below the table C 71  and in front of the side arm C 55 . A holder, not shown, for attaching a medal storage container C 73 C is provided in the medal reception part C 73 B. In addition, a sensor for detecting that a medal is inserted is installed in the medal insertion part C 74 . The insertion of the medal is detected by this sensor, and the game starts when an instruction signal for game start is transmitted from the sub-control device C 90  to the main control device C 80 , via the input operation part C 72 , operated by the player. This medal can be paid out according to the betting odds in an event within the game program. For example, predetermined odds are stipulated to the participants of a certain event (win/loss of horse-racing, combat, etc.), much like a book-maker, and the player places a bet on a desired object. Then, medals are paid out according to the odds or the like, based on the win/loss results. The prize resulting from this book-maker is not limited to medals and can be items within the game environment.  
      In addition, a remaining amount sensor C 76  for detecting the remaining amount of the medal collected within the medal collection part C 73  is installed in the medal collection part C 73 . When this remaining amount senor C 76  detects that the remaining amount of medals is below a predetermined level, the CPU C 91 , described hereafter, transmits an empty signal outside. This empty signal can be transmitted to a management system of the game arcade outside of the game machine C 1 , a mobile terminal held by the staff or the like. In this way, because the staff is notified when the remaining amount of the medals is low, they can be replenished smoothly and the halting of a game due to no remaining medals can be prevented. This remaining amount sensor C 76  can be a weight sensor which detects the weight of the medals collected within the medal collection part C 73  or whether there is more than a certain amount of medals can be detected by a proximity switch or an infrared sensor. In addition, that there the remaining amount of medals is low can be detected by provided an electrode within the medal collection part C 73  in which a weak current can be detected normally, due to the medals touching, and no current is detected when the remaining amount of medals is low.  
      The liquid crystal display device C 61  includes a first support arm C 611  which is supported by the side unit C 60 , a second support arm C 612  which is attached to the tip of the first support arm C 611 , and a flat, rectangular sub-monitor C 613  which is attached to the tip of the second support arm C 612  and performs liquid crystal display. in addition, the first support arm C 611  and the second support arm C 612  are drive-controlled by the liquid crystal monitor driving control device C 63 .  
      The first support arm C 611  can be extended and retracted freely in the direction vertical to the side unit C 60 . The second support arm C 612  can extend and retract freely and can be fixed to an arbitrary angle to the axis direction of the first support arm C 611 . The liquid crystal monitor C 613  can be fixed to an arbitrary angle to the axis direction of the second support arm C 612 .  
      The liquid crystal monitor driving control device C 63  is controlled by the sub-control device C 90 . The sub-control device C 90  gives instruction to move the liquid crystal monitor C 613  to a predetermined position to the liquid crystal monitor driving control device C 63 , when an instruction signal for the pulling-out of the liquid crystal display device C 61  due to the start of a game is received from the main control device C 80  The liquid crystal monitor driving control device C 63  moves the liquid crystal monitor C 613  to the predetermined position when this instruction signal is received. Here, the predetermined position is a position placed facing the player seated in the seat C 50 , and for example, can be placed at the player&#39;s eye level.  
      A small CCD camera C 614  is embedded into the liquid crystal monitor C 613 . The image taken by the CCD camera C 614  is displayed constantly in the liquid crystal display part C 61  in the terminal device A 30 , by operating an input operation part A 72  (described hereafter). Because the expressions of the player per se can be viewed during the game in this way, enjoyment increases. In this case, the photographed image can be shown on the entire screen of the liquid crystal monitor C 613  or in one section of the screen.  
      Next, the procedure for pulling out the liquid crystal monitor C 613  from the liquid crystal monitor storage part C 62  is described, with reference to the  FIG. 5C  to  FIG. 8C .  
      As shown in  FIG. 5C , the liquid crystal monitor C 613  is normally stored within the liquid crystal monitor storage part C 62  within the side unit C 60 , with the first support arm C 611  and the second support arm C 612  is in a retracted state.  
      Here, when the medal is inserted into the medal insertion part by the player and a game start instruction signal is transmitted from the sub control device C 90  to the main control device C 80  via the input operation part C 72 , the main control device C 80  transmits an instruction signal for the pull-out of the liquid crystal monitor C 613  to the sub-control device C 90 . The sub-control device C 90  transmits an instruction for the movement of the liquid crystal monitor C 613  to a predetermined position to the liquid crystal monitor driving control device C 63 , and as shown in  FIG. 6C , the liquid crystal monitor C 613  first extends the first support arm C 611  and the second support arm C 612 , and pulls the monitor out so as to slide it upwards from the liquid crystal monitor storage part C 62 . Subsequently, as shown in  FIG. 70 , the liquid crystal monitor C 613  faces the player by rotating 90° and furthermore, the monitor angle is adjusted by bending the connection part of the liquid crystal monitor C 613  and the second support arm C 612 . Then, as shown in  FIG. 8C , the monitor is moved to a position facing the player by bending the connection part of the first support arm C 611  and the second support arm C 612 .  
      Here, the player can place the liquid crystal monitor C 613  in an appropriate position, for example, on the player&#39;s eye level, by adjusting the relative angle of the first support arm C 611  and the second support arm C 612  and the relative angle of the second support arm C 612  and the liquid crystal monitor C 613 . The liquid crystal monitor C 613  can be moved to an appropriate position such as this automatically by storing the position in the foregoing membership card or the like.  
       FIG. 9C  is an enlarged perspective view of a section of a traveling part C 32 .  
      The traveling part C 32  includes four traveling tires C 321 , a driving control device C 322  for rotation-driving these traveling tires C 321 , a direction control device C 323  for controlling the direction of the traveling tires C 321 , and a rechargeable battery, not shown, for supplying the driving control device C 322  and direction control device C 323  with power.  
      The traveling part C 32  can move a seat C 50  to an arbitrary position on the play area C 21  by the driving control device C 322  and the direction control device C 323 . The foregoing rechargeable battery can be recharged through connection to an external power source, but is not limited thereto, and can be recharged by self-induced electromotive force due to a magnetic field, by embedding a magnetic field generating device in the play area C 21  and generating a magnetic field by this magnetic field generating device.  
      In addition, an IC tag detection part C 324  for detecting IC tags C 211 , which are buried in the play area C 21 , is provided below the tire driving control device C 322  of the traveling part C 32 .  
      Configurations of the Main Game Machine Body and the Terminal Device  
       FIG. 10C  is a block diagram showing the overall configuration of the game machine C 1  and the terminal device C 30 . In the game machine C 1 , the main control device A 80  of the main game machine body C 20  has a wireless communication part C 83 , and the sub-control device A 90  of the terminal device C 30  has a wireless communication part C 93 . These wireless communication parts C 89  and C 93  can be interconnected via wireless LAN, and in this way, sound data and text data can be communicated and instructions, such as the pulling-out of the liquid crystal monitor C 613 , can be performed between the main control device C 80  and the sub-control device C 90 .  
      Configuration of the Main Control Device  
       FIG. 11C  is a block diagram showing the configuration of the main control device C 80 . The main control device C 80  has a CPU C 81 , a memory C 82 , a wireless communication part C 83 , and a database C 84 , which are connected to a data bus C 89 .  
      The wireless communication part C 83  includes a transceiving circuit part (RF) C 85  for transmitting and receiving signals with the sub-control device C 90 , and a base band processing part A 86  for converting RF (Radio Frequency) signals received by the transceiving circuit part C 85  into base band signals and also converting base band signals to be transmitted into RF signals.  
      The database C 84  is a circuit board which includes a memory part to which a game program is stored or a storage medium (for example, a hard disk or ROM cassette) to which the game program is stored. Specifically, a slot to which these circuit boards and storage mediums can be attached and removed is provided in the main control device C 80 . By attaching and removing these circuit boards and storage mediums from the slot, the game program stored to the database C 84  can be replaced, accordingly, and other game programs can be executed. Replacing the game program is not limited to that via hardware, as such, and the game program can be replaced directly by downloading via a communication circuit.  
      The CPU C 81  executes various processing according to the game program.  
      In other words, the CPU C 81  reads the game program stored in the database C 84  to the memory C 82  and runs the game according to this game program.  
      Specifically, the CPU C 81  receives data including game input data, described hereafter, respectively, from the plurality of terminal devices C 30 , and generates a single game data according to the game program, based on these data. Then, the CPU C 81  generates image data which is shared with all of the terminal devices C 30 , based on the generated single game data, and outputs this data to the main control device C 80 .  
      Here, the single game data includes a plurality of operation character data which can be moved within the single game field generated according to the game program, based on the respective game input data of the plurality of terminal devices C 30 , and the positional data of this plurality of operation characters.  
      During the game, the CPU C 81  extracts the game program, information expressing the game status corresponding to the time-line in the game field at that time (namely, information expressing events and the like occurring within the game field), and the like from the data base C 84 , in response to request from the terminal device C 30 , and transmits these to the terminal device C 30 , which is the request source, via wireless LAN. In addition, the CPU C 81  receives information expressing the operation results of the player from each terminal device C 30  and stores this in the memory C 82 . The CPU C 81  runs the game based on the information expressing the operation results of the player stored in the memory C 82 , and the progression results of the game program is stored in the database C 84 .  
      Here, the information expressing the operation results of the player are, for example, selection results by the player from a selection shown to the player via the terminal device C 30 , based on the progress of the game program, or the results of the operation performed by the player of the character appearing in the game, and is information transmitted from the terminal device C 30  as a result of the player operating their respective terminal devices C 30 . Other players can check the progress status of the current game stored in this database C 84  (for example, high-score information, etc.)  
      Configuration of the Sub-Control Device  
       FIG. 12C  is a block diagram showing the configuration of the sub-control device C 90 .  
      The sub-control device C 90  has a CPU C 91 , a memory C 92 , a wireless communication part C 93 , an input and output part C 94  which is the interface with the speaker C 75 , and a transmitting part C 64  which is the interface with the liquid crystal display device C 61 , which are connected to a data bus C 99 .  
      The wireless communication part C 93  includes a transceiving circuit part (RF) C 95  for transmitting and receiving signals with the main control device C 80 , and a base band processing part C 96  for converting RF (Radio Frequency) signals received by the transceiving circuit part C 95  into base band signals and also converting base band signals to be transmitted into RF signals.  
      In addition, the sub-control device C 90  controls the driving control device C 322 , the direction control device C 323 , and the liquid crystal display device C 61 , based on the input signals from the input operation part C 72 , the medal insertion part C 734 , the remaining amount sensor C 76 , the CCD camera C 614 , and the IC tag detection part C 324 .  
      The CPU C 91  executes various operations according to the operation programs stored in the memory C 92  and control respective circuit parts and devices according to the operations.  
      Image data signals generated by in the main control device C 80  are output from the liquid crystal monitor C 613  through the following procedure.  
      When the RF signal is received from the main control device C 80 , the transceiving circuit part C 95  supplies this signal to the base band processing part C 96  and converts this RF signal to a base band signal. The base band processing part C 96  outputs this base band signal to the liquid crystal monitor C 613 , via the transmitting part C 64 , Then, this base band signal is output from the liquid crystal monitor C 613  as an image.  
      In addition, sound signals from the main control device C 80  are output from the speaker C 75  in the same way, by the foregoing procedure, in other words, when the RF signal is received from the main control device C 80 , the transceiving circuit part C 95  converts this RF signal to a base band signal in the base band processing part A 96 . The base band processing part A 96  outputs this base band signal to the speaker A 75  as sound, by outputting from the speaker C 75  via the input and output part A 94 .  
      Furthermore, when the player operates the input operation part C 72 , after converting various information input by operating the input operation part C 72  into packet data, the CPU C 91  transmits this to the main control device C 80 , via the band base processing part C 96  and the transceiving circuit part C 95 . At this time, each terminal device C 30  can be identified regardless of the position the terminal devices C 30  are placed on the play area C 21  by including IP addresses in the packet data. Similarly, the CPU C 91  converts positional information read from the IC tag C 211  by the IC tag detection part C 324  and image information perceived by the CCD camera C 614  into packet data and transmits this to the main control device C 80 .  
      On the other hand, when an RF signal to which information converted into packet data is superimposed is transmitted from the main control device C 80 , the CPU C 91  receives this RF signal via the transceiving circuit part C 95  and the base band processing part C 96 , displays it in the liquid crystal display monitor C 613  and, in addition, controls the driving control device C 322  and the direction control device C 323  of the traveling part C 32 .  
      In other words, when the CPU C 91  receives the game program and information expressing the game status corresponding to the time-line in the game field at that time from the main control device C 80 , the CPU A 91  shows various occurrences, such as events, occurring in the game field at this time according to the game program in the liquid crystal display device C 61 , outputs sound effects from the speaker C 75 , and moves the main terminal device body C 30 A, after storing the information, such as the game program, transmitted from the main control device C 89  in the memory C 82 .  
      In addition, by operating the input operation part C 72  while viewing the game content (image, letter information, etc.) shown in the liquid crystal monitor C 613 , the player using respective terminal device C 30  can operate the characters shown in the main display device C 22 , participate in the progress of the game by operations such as selecting from a selection by letters, and move the terminal device C 30  to an designated position on the play area C 21 .  
      Game Configuration of the Game Machine  
      The operations of the game machine C 1  are described, with reference to the main flowchart shown in  FIG. 13C . In STC 1 , each player selects a terminal device C 30  of their choice from the terminal devices C 30  placed on the play area C 21  and sits in the seat C 50  of the selected terminal device C 30 . Next, in STC 2 , each player inserts a medal into a medal insertion opening and presses the start switch in the input operation part C 72 . Then, in STC 3 , the locks of the liquid crystal monitor C 613  and the seat C 50  of the game machine C 1  are released and, in STC 4 , the liquid crystal monitor C 613  is pulled out from the liquid crystal monitor storage space C 62 , moved to the predetermined position, and the seat C 50 , as well as the position of the liquid crystal monitor C 613 , is adjusted.  
      In STC 5 , the game machine C 1  performs a game processing described hereafter. After the game is completed, in STC 6 , the game machine C 1  stores the liquid crystal monitor C 613  and also returns the mode of the seat C 31  to the normal seat mode.  
       FIG. 14C  is a flowchart of the game processing.  
      When the game is started in STC 11 , the game program creates an avatar of the player on STC 12 . In other words, the game program shows an avatar creating screen in the liquid crystal monitor C 613 . In this avatar creation screen, the player creates an avatar, which is an alter ego of the player, when participating in the game program. When an image of the players face is taken by the CCD camera C 614  and the player enters personal information and the name to be used in the game field to the input operation part C 72 , the game program creates an avatar based on this information and registers it to the database C 84  of the main control device C 80 .  
      In STC 13 , the game program places the terminal device C 30  in which the player is seated in the default position on the play area C 21 . In other words, the game field is divided into a plurality of game fields and each game field has one town. Each game field is an ocean, a forest, or a large city. The play area C 21  includes a plurality of sub-areas C 212 , such as a city area C 212 A, an ocean area C 212 B, and a forest area C 212 C, as stated earlier. These sub-areas  0212  are quasi-spaces corresponding to the environment of the towns in the game environment.  
      Therefore, the game program sets the town each player is in, in the game field, and moves the terminal device C 30  of the player to the sub-area C 212 , corresponding to the town in which each player is, when the game begins. Or, the terminal device C 30  of the player is moved according to the operations of each player of the input operation part C 72 , and the town in which the player is in the game field is set according to this movement.  
      In STC 14 , the game program runs the game according to a unique time-line, generating macroquests in which a plurality of players participate and quests in which only one player participates, and completed the game in STC 15 .  
      In this way, the player seated in the terminal device C 30  can select whether to view fights between other players or fight himself, with regards to macroquests, by getting involved in macroquests and requesting help from fellow players involved in the macroquest, while communicating various information with the main control device. C 80 . In addition, if the player is progressing through the game alone, the game progresses by selecting fights while generating quests in which only one player participates.  
       FIG. 15C  is a flowchart of the remaining amount confirmation processing of the game medium.  
      In STC 21 , the remaining amount sensor C 76  within the medal collection part  073  detects the remaining amount of the medal. This detection can be made by the weight of the medal or the level of the remaining amount of stored medals. When this processing is completed, the process proceeds to STC 22 .  
      In STC 22 , the remaining amount sensor C 76  determines whether the remaining amount of medals is lower than a predetermined level, if it is determined that the remaining amount of the medals is higher than the predetermined level, the process returns to the processing in STC  21 . In addition, if the remaining amount sensor C 76  determined that the remaining amount of the medals is lower than the predetermined level, the process proceeds to the processing in STC 23 . In STC 23 , the remaining amount sensor C 76  transmits an empty signal.  
      Other Embodiments  
      As other embodiments, rather than the game machine B 1  being configured by the main game machine B 20  and the terminal device B 30 , it can be configured so that the game can be played by the terminal device alone. In this case, in the configuration of the sub-control device C 90  ( FIG. 12C ), a database for storing the game program and memory are included, as in the main control device C 80 . Furthermore, the CPU C 91  reads the game program stored in the database to the memory, displays image in the liquid crystal monitor C 631  according to the game program and runs the game. Then, the liquid crystal monitor C 613  can move to the predetermined position and be stored within the side unit C 60  by game start signals and game completion signals transmitted by the CPU 91 .  
      Although the embodiments of the present invention are described above, the present invention is not limited to the foregoing embodiments and includes modifications, improvements and the like which achieve the objects of the present invention. In addition, the effects described in the embodiments of the present invention are merely a listing of the most preferable effects attained by the present invention, and the effects of the present invention are not limited to the effects described in the embodiments of the present invention.