Patent Publication Number: US-2009227350-A1

Title: Gaming Machine Arranging Symbols Based on Rearragned Symbols and Playing Method Thereof

Description:
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION 
     The present application claims priority from the following provisional application No. 61/037,412 filed on Mar. 18, 2008; No. 61/034,427 filed on Mar. 6, 2008; No. 61/038,583, filed on Mar. 21, 2008; No. 61/038,603, filed on Mar. 21, 2008; No. 61/037,135 filed on Mar. 17, 2008; No. 61/037,141, filed on Mar. 17, 2008, the entire disclosure of which are herein incorporated by reference. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     1. Field of the Invention 
     The present invention relates to a gaming machine and a playing method thereof. 
     2. Description of Related Art 
     Among existing gaming machines, there is a gaming machine including: two or more gaming terminals; terminal controllers respectively provided to the gaming terminal, each of which controllers causes associated one of the gaming terminals to run a game; a center controller for controlling all the terminal controllers. This type of gaming machine is disclosed in specifications of U.S. Pat. No. 5,820,459, U.S. Pat. No. 4,283,709, or U.S. Pat. No. 6,003,013. A terminal controller of a gaming terminal runs a game and awards a payout based on the result of the game independently from another terminal controller of another gaming terminal. The center controller provides various jackpots such as progressive jackpots, mystery jackpots, or the like. 
     An object of the invention is to provide a gaming machine providing an entertainment characteristic which is not brought about by the above mentioned prior art, and a playing method thereof. 
     Another object of the invention is to provide a gaming machine and a playing method thereof each involving two or more gaming terminals to play a single game, which thereby realizes a new entertainment characteristic that gives the feelings of “unity” and “sharing” to participating players. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     A gaming machine of the present invention, comprises: a plurality of gaming terminals capable of running a game independently from each other, each of which terminals includes (i) a terminal display having a matrix of arrangement areas and (ii) a payout awarding device for awarding a player a payout related to the game, and each of which terminals arranges a plurality of symbols in the arrangement areas; 
     a shared display for arranging therein a plurality of symbols; and 
     a center controller programmed to perform the steps of: 
     (a1) rearranging symbols in the arrangement areas of each of the gaming terminals, based on running of a game in the gaming terminal; 
     (a2) awarding a payout according to a relation among the symbols rearranged in the arrangement areas; 
     (a3) combining one symbol arrangement of one gaming terminal with another symbol arrangement of another gaming terminal, and rearranging, on the shared display, symbols identical to those in the one symbol arrangement and the other symbol arrangement, wherein the one symbol arrangement includes the symbols arranged in arrangement areas of the one gaming terminal, and the other symbol arrangement includes the symbols arranged in arrangement areas of the other gaming terminal; 
     (a4) determining whether to award a payout according to a relation among the symbols rearranged on the shared display; 
     (a5) when the payout is determined to be awarded, determining a distribution of the payout for each of the gaming terminals, based on a predetermined condition; and 
     (a6) causing the payout awarding device of each of the gaming terminals to award a payout based on the determined distribution. 
     In the above structure, a game is run in each of the gaming terminals. Based on the running of the game, symbols are rearranged in the arrangement areas on the terminal display of the gaming terminal. Then, a payout is awarded according to a relation among the symbols rearranged in the arrangement areas. On the shared display are rearranged symbols identical to those in one symbol arrangement of one gaming terminal in combination with symbols identical to those in another symbol arrangement of another gaming terminal, wherein the one symbol arrangement includes the symbols arranged in arrangement areas of the one gaming terminal, and the other symbol arrangement includes the symbols arranged in arrangement areas of the other gaming terminal. Then, whether to award a payout is determined according to a relation among the symbols rearranged on the shared display. When the payout is determined to be awarded, a distribution of the payout for each of the gaming terminals is determined based on a predetermined condition. The payout awarding device of each of the gaming terminals awards a payout based on the determined distribution. This payout awarded according to the relation among the symbols rearranged on the shared display realizes a new entertainment characteristic which raises player&#39;s expectation for another payout in addition to the one awarded as a result of the game run in the gaming terminal. Additionally, determining a distribution of the payout for each of the gaming terminals realizes a new entertainment characteristic which raises player&#39;s expectation of how much distribution is determined for the player. Further, the above structure creates a single game involving a plurality of gaming terminals by rearranging, on the shared display, the symbols identical to those in the symbol arrangement of the one gaming terminal in combination with the symbols identical to those in the other symbol arrangement of the other gaming terminal, wherein the one symbol arrangement includes the symbols arranged in arrangement areas of the one gaming terminal, and the other symbol arrangement includes the symbols arranged in arrangement areas of the other gaming terminal. This realizes a new entertainment characteristic which gives the feelings of “unity” and “sharing” to participating players. 
     The present invention is a gaming machine including: a plurality of gaming terminals capable of running a game independently from each other, each of which terminals includes (i) a terminal display having a matrix of arrangement areas and (ii) a payout awarding device for awarding a player a payout related to the game, and each of which terminals arranges a plurality of symbols in the arrangement areas; 
     a shared display for arranging therein a plurality of symbols; and 
     a controller programmed to perform the steps of: 
     (b1) rearranging symbols in the arrangement areas of each of the gaming terminals, based on running of a game in the gaming terminal; 
     (b2) awarding a payout according to a relation among the symbols rearranged in the arrangement areas; 
     (b3) combining one symbol arrangement of one gaming terminal with another symbol arrangement of another gaming terminal, and rearranging, on the shared display, symbols identical to those in the one symbol arrangement and the other symbol arrangement, wherein the one symbol arrangement includes the symbols arranged in arrangement areas of the one gaming terminal, and the other symbol arrangement includes the symbols arranged in arrangement areas of the other gaming terminal; 
     (b4) determining whether to award a payout according to a relation among the symbols rearranged on the shared display; 
     (b5) when the payout is determined to be awarded, determining a distribution of the payout for each of the gaming terminals, based on contribution rates of the combined symbol arrangements of the symbols; and 
     (b6) causing the payout awarding device of each of the gaming terminals to award a payout based on the determined distribution. 
     In the above structure, a game is run in each of the gaming terminals. Based on the running of the game, symbols are rearranged in the arrangement areas on the terminal display of the gaming terminal. Then, a payout is awarded according to a relation among the symbols rearranged in the arrangement areas. On the shared display are rearranged symbols identical to those in one symbol arrangement of one gaming terminal in combination with symbols identical to those in another symbol arrangement of another gaming terminal, wherein the one symbol arrangement includes the symbols arranged in arrangement areas of the one gaming terminal, and the other symbol arrangement includes the symbols arranged in arrangement areas of the other gaming terminal. Then, whether to award a payout is determined according to a relation among the symbols rearranged on the shared display. When the payout is determined to be awarded, a distribution of the payout for each of the gaming terminals is determined based on contribution rates of the combined symbol arrangements of the symbols. The payout awarding device of each of the gaming terminals awards a payout based on the determined distribution. This payout awarded according to the relation among the symbols rearranged on the shared display realizes a new entertainment characteristic which raises player&#39;s expectation for another payout in addition to the one awarded as a result of the game run in the gaming terminal. Additionally, a distribution of the payout for each of the gaming terminals is determined based on contribution rates of the combined symbol arrangements of the symbols. This realizes a new entertainment characteristic. Further, the above structure creates a single game involving a plurality of gaming terminals by rearranging, on the shared display, the symbols identical to those in the symbol arrangement of the one gaming terminal in combination with the symbols identical to those in the other symbol arrangement of the other gaming terminal, wherein the one symbol arrangement includes the symbols arranged in arrangement areas of the one gaming terminal, and the other symbol arrangement includes the symbols arranged in arrangement areas of the other gaming terminal. This realizes a new entertainment characteristic which gives the feelings of “unity” and “sharing” to participating players. 
     The present invention is a gaming machine, including: a plurality of gaming terminals capable of running a game independently from each other, each of which terminals includes (i) a terminal display having a matrix of arrangement areas and (ii) a payout awarding device for awarding a player a payout related to the game, and each of which terminals arranges a plurality of symbols in the arrangement areas; 
     a shared display for arranging therein a plurality of symbols; and 
     a controller programmed to perform the steps of: 
     (c1) rearranging symbols in the arrangement areas of each of the gaming terminals, based on running of a game in the gaming terminal; 
     (c2) awarding a payout according to a relation among the symbols rearranged in the arrangement areas; 
     (c3) combining one symbol arrangement of one gaming terminal with another symbol arrangement of another gaming terminal, and rearranging, on the shared display, symbols identical to those in the one symbol arrangement and the other symbol arrangement, wherein the one symbol arrangement includes the symbols arranged in arrangement areas of the one gaming terminal, and the other symbol arrangement includes the symbols arranged in arrangement areas of the other gaming terminal; 
     (c4) determining whether to award a payout according to a relation among the symbols rearranged on the shared display; 
     (c5) when the payout is determined to be awarded, displaying an effect indicating that the payout is awarded on the shared display; 
     (c6) when the payout is determined to be awarded, determining a distribution of the payout for each of the gaming terminals, based on at least two different amounts of distribution; and 
     (c7) causing the payout awarding device of each of the gaming terminals to award a payout based on the determined distribution. 
     In the above structure, a game is run in each of the gaming terminals. Based on the running of the game, symbols are rearranged in the arrangement areas on the terminal display of the gaming terminal. Then, a payout is awarded according to a relation among the symbols rearranged in the arrangement areas. On the shared display are rearranged symbols identical to those in one symbol arrangement of one gaming terminal in combination with symbols identical to those in another symbol arrangement of another gaming terminal, wherein the one symbol arrangement includes the symbols arranged in arrangement areas of the one gaming terminal, and the other symbol arrangement includes the symbols arranged in arrangement areas of the other gaming terminal. Then, whether to award a payout is determined according to a relation among the symbols rearranged on the shared display. When the payout is determined to be awarded, a distribution of the payout for each of the gaming terminals is determined based on at least two different amounts of distribution. The payout awarding device of each of the gaming terminals awards a payout based on the determined distribution. This payout awarded according to the relation among the symbols rearranged on the shared display realizes a new entertainment characteristic which raises player&#39;s expectation for another payout in addition to the one awarded as a result of the game run in the gaming terminal. Additionally, different amounts of distribution are given to the gaming terminals by determining each of the distributions of the payout based on at least two different amounts of distribution. Therefore, a new entertainment characteristic is realized. Further, the above structure creates a single game involving a plurality of gaming terminals by rearranging, on the shared display, the symbols identical to those in the symbol arrangement of the one gaming terminal in combination with the symbols identical to those in the other symbol arrangement of the other gaming terminal, wherein the one symbol arrangement includes the symbols arranged in arrangement areas of the one gaming terminal, and the other symbol arrangement includes the symbols arranged in arrangement areas of the other gaming terminal. This realizes a new entertainment characteristic which gives the feelings of “unity” and “sharing” to participating players. 
     The present invention is a gaming machine, including: a plurality of gaming terminals including (i)a terminal display having a matrix of arrangement areas, (ii)a payout awarding device for awarding a player a payout related to the game, and (iii) a terminal controller, and each of which terminals arranges a plurality of symbols in the arrangement areas; 
     a shared display for arranging therein a plurality of symbols; and 
     a center controller, 
     wherein the terminal controller performs the steps of: 
     (d1) rearranging symbols in the arrangement areas at a predetermined timing; 
     (d2) awarding a payout according to a relation among the symbols arranged in the arrangement areas; 
     (d3) when a predetermined condition is met, transmitting to the center controller symbols arranged in the arrangement areas and the arrangement of the symbols; and 
     (d4) causing the payout awarding device to award a payout based on an instruction from the center controller, and wherein the center controller is programmed to perform the steps of: 
     (e1) when a predetermined condition is met, receiving from each of the terminal controllers symbols and the arrangement of the symbols, 
     (e2) combining one symbol arrangement of one gaming terminal with another symbol arrangement of another gaming terminal, and rearranging, on the shared display, symbols identical to those in the one symbol arrangement and the other symbol arrangement, wherein the one symbol arrangement includes the symbols arranged in arrangement areas of the one gaming terminal, and the other symbol arrangement includes the symbols arranged in arrangement areas of the other gaming terminal; 
     (e3) determining whether to award a payout according to a relation among the symbols rearranged on the shared display; 
     (e4) when the payout is determined to be awarded, determining a distribution of the payout for each of the gaming terminals, based on a predetermined condition; and 
     (e5) instructing the terminal controller of each of the gaming terminals to award a payout based on the determined distribution. 
     In the above structure, symbols are rearranged in the arrangement areas on the terminal display of the gaming terminal at a predetermined timing. Then, a payout is awarded according to a relation among the symbols rearranged in the arrangement areas. When a predetermined condition is met, symbols identical to those in one symbol arrangement of one gaming terminal are rearranged on the shared display in combination with symbols identical to those in another symbol arrangement of another gaming terminal, wherein the one symbol arrangement includes the symbols arranged in arrangement areas of the one gaming terminal, and the other symbol arrangement includes the symbols arranged in arrangement areas of the other gaming terminal. Then, whether to award a payout is determined according to a relation among the symbols rearranged on the shared display. When the payout is determined to be awarded, a distribution of the payout for each of the gaming terminals is determined based on a predetermined condition. The payout awarding device of each of the gaming terminals awards a payout based on the determined distribution. This payout awarded according to the relation among the symbols rearranged on the shared display realizes a new entertainment characteristic which raises player&#39;s expectation for another payout in addition to the one awarded as a result of the game run in the gaming terminal. Additionally, determining a distribution of the payout for each of the gaming terminals realizes a new entertainment characteristic which raises player&#39;s expectation of how much distribution is determined for the player. Further, the above structure creates a single game involving a plurality of gaming terminals by rearranging, on the shared display, the symbols identical to those in the symbol arrangement of the one gaming terminal in combination with the symbols identical to those in the other symbol arrangement of the other gaming terminal, wherein the one symbol arrangement includes the symbols arranged in arrangement areas of the one gaming terminal, and the other symbol arrangement includes the symbols arranged in arrangement areas of the other gaming terminal. This realizes a new entertainment characteristic which gives the feelings of “unity” and “sharing” to participating players. 
     The present invention is a playing method of a gaming machine, in which a plurality of symbols are arranged in a matrix of arrangement areas on terminal displays of a plurality of gaming terminals, 
     the method comprising the steps of: 
     (f1) rearranging symbols in the arrangement areas of each of the gaming terminals, based on running of a game in the gaming terminal; 
     (f2) awarding a payout according to a relation among the symbols rearranged in the arrangement areas; 
     (f3) combining one symbol arrangement of one gaming terminal with another symbol arrangement of another gaming terminal, and rearranging, on a shared display, symbols identical to those in the one symbol arrangement and the other symbol arrangement, wherein the one symbol arrangement includes the symbols arranged in arrangement areas of the one gaming terminal, and the other symbol arrangement includes the symbols arranged in arrangement areas of the other gaming terminal; 
     (f4) determining whether to award a payout according to a relation among the symbols rearranged on the shared display; 
     (f5) when the payout is determined to be awarded, determining a distribution of the payout for each of the gaming terminals, based on a predetermined condition; and 
     (f6) causing the payout awarding device of each of the gaming terminals to award a payout based on the determined distribution. 
     In the above structure, this payout awarded according to a relation among the symbols rearranged on the shared display realizes a new entertainment characteristic which raises player&#39;s expectation for another payout in addition to the one awarded as a result of the game run in the gaming terminal. Additionally, determining a distribution of the payout for each of the gaming terminals realizes a new entertainment characteristic which raises player&#39;s expectation of how much distribution is determined for the player. Further, the above structure creates a single game involving a plurality of gaming terminals by rearranging, on the shared display, the symbols identical to those in the symbol arrangement of the one gaming terminal in combination with the symbols identical to those in the other symbol arrangement of the other gaming terminal, wherein the one symbol arrangement includes the symbols arranged in arrangement areas of the one gaming terminal, and the other symbol arrangement includes the symbols arranged in arrangement areas of the other gaming terminal. This realizes a new entertainment characteristic which gives the feelings of “unity” and “sharing” to participating players. 
     A gaming machine of the present invention, comprises: 
     a plurality of gaming terminals capable of running a game independently from each other, each of which terminals includes (i)a terminal display having a matrix of arrangement areas and (ii)a payout awarding device for awarding a player a payout related to the game, and each of which terminals arranges a plurality of symbols in the arrangement areas; 
     a shared display for arranging therein a plurality of symbols; 
     a conveying device for supporting the shared display and transferring the shared display to positions corresponding to the respective gaming terminals; and 
     a center controller programmed to perform the steps of: 
     (g1) rearranging symbols in the arrangement areas of each of the gaming terminals, based on running of a game in the gaming terminal; 
     (g2) awarding a payout according to a relation among the symbols rearranged in the arrangement areas; 
     (g3) combining one symbol arrangement of one gaming terminal with another symbol arrangement of another gaming terminal, and rearranging, on the shared display, symbols identical to those in the one symbol arrangement and the other symbol arrangement, wherein the one symbol arrangement includes the symbols arranged in arrangement areas of the one gaming terminal, and the other symbol arrangement includes the symbols arranged in arrangement areas of the other gaming terminal; 
     (g4) determining whether to award a payout according to a relation among the symbols rearranged on the shared display; 
     (g5) when the payout is determined to be awarded, causing the conveying device to transfer the shared display between positions corresponding to the respective gaming terminals; 
     (g6) when the payout is determined to be awarded, determining one of the gaming terminals, based on a predetermined condition; 
     (g7) causing the conveying device to transfer the shared display to the position corresponding to the determined one gaming terminal; 
     (g8) displaying an effect indicating the determined one gaming terminal on the shared display; and 
     (g9) causing the payout awarding device of the determined one gaming terminal to award the payout. 
     In the above structure, a game is run in each of the gaming terminals. Based on the running of the game, symbols are rearranged in the arrangement areas on the terminal display of the gaming terminal. Then, a payout is awarded according to a relation among the symbols rearranged in the arrangement areas. On the shared display are rearranged symbols identical to those in one symbol arrangement of one gaming terminal in combination with symbols identical to those in another symbol arrangement of another gaming terminal, wherein the one symbol arrangement includes the symbols arranged in arrangement areas of the one gaming terminal, and the other symbol arrangement includes the symbols arranged in arrangement areas of the other gaming terminal. Then, whether to award a payout is determined according to a relation among the symbols rearranged on the shared display. When the payout is determined to be awarded, the shared display is transferred between positions corresponding to the respective gaming terminals. When the payout is determined to be awarded, one of the gaming terminals is determined based on a predetermined condition. The shared display is transferred to the position corresponding to the determined one gaming terminal. On the shared display is displayed an effect indicating the determined one gaming terminal. The payout awarding device of the determined one gaming terminal awards the payout. This payout awarded through the only one gaming terminal according to the relation among the symbols rearranged on the shared display realizes a new entertainment characteristic which raises player&#39;s expectation for another payout awarded through the only one gaming terminal in addition to the one awarded as a result of the game run in the gaming terminal. Further, when the payout is determined to be awarded, the shared display is transferred between positions corresponding to the respective gaming terminals and subsequently transferred to the position corresponding to the determined one gaming terminal for awarding the payout. Then, on the shared display is displayed an effect indicating the determined one gaming terminal. This allows players to visually recognize transfers of the shared display and therefore realizes a new entertainment characteristic which raises player&#39;s expectation for which gaming terminal the payout is awarded through. Further, a single game is created with the use of a plurality of gaming terminals by rearranging, on the shared display, the symbols identical to those in the symbol arrangement of the one gaming terminal in combination with the symbols identical to those in the other symbol arrangement of the other gaming terminal, wherein the one symbol arrangement includes the symbols arranged in arrangement areas of the one gaming terminal, and the other symbol arrangement includes the symbols arranged in arrangement areas of the other gaming terminal. This realizes a new entertainment characteristic which gives the feelings of “unity” and “sharing” to participating players. 
     The present invention is a gaming machine, including: 
     a plurality of gaming terminals capable of running a game independently from each other, each of which terminals includes (i) a terminal display having a matrix of arrangement areas and (ii) a payout awarding device for awarding a player a payout related to the game, and each of which terminals arranges a plurality of symbols in the arrangement areas; 
     a shared display for arranging therein a plurality of symbols; and 
     a conveying device for supporting the shared display and transferring the shared display to positions corresponding to the respective gaming terminals; 
     a position sensor for detecting that the shared display has arrived at a position corresponding to a gaming terminal; and 
     a center controller programmed to perform the steps of: 
     (h1) rearranging symbols in the arrangement areas of each of the gaming terminals, based on running of a game in the gaming terminal; 
     (h2) awarding a payout according to a relation among the symbols rearranged in the arrangement areas; 
     (h3) combining one symbol arrangement of one gaming terminal with another symbol arrangement of another gaming terminal, and rearranging, on the shared display, symbols identical to those in the one symbol arrangement and the other symbol arrangement, wherein the one symbol arrangement includes the symbols arranged in arrangement areas of the one gaming terminal, and the other symbol arrangement includes the symbols arranged in arrangement areas of the other gaming terminal; 
     (h4) determining whether to award a payout according to a relation among the symbols rearranged on the shared display; 
     (h5) when the payout is determined to be awarded, causing the conveying device to transfer the shared display between positions corresponding to the respective gaming terminals; 
     (h6) when the payout is determined to be awarded, determining one of the gaming terminals, based on a predetermined condition; 
     (h7) causing the conveying device to transfer the shared display to the position corresponding to the determined one gaming terminal; 
     (h8) after detecting that the shared display has arrived at the position corresponding to the determined one gaming terminal, displaying an effect indicating the determined one gaming terminal on the shared display; and 
     (h9) causing the payout awarding device of the determined one gaming terminal to award the payout. 
     In the above structure, a game is run in each of the gaming terminals. Based on the running of the game, symbols are rearranged in the arrangement areas on the terminal display of the gaming terminal. Then, a payout is awarded according to a relation among the symbols rearranged in the arrangement areas. On the shared display are rearranged symbols identical to those in one symbol arrangement of one gaming terminal in combination with symbols identical to those in another symbol arrangement of another gaming terminal, wherein the one symbol arrangement includes the symbols arranged in arrangement areas of the one gaming terminal, and the other symbol arrangement includes the symbols arranged in arrangement areas of the other gaming terminal. Then, whether to award a payout is determined according to a relation among the symbols rearranged on the shared display. When the payout is determined to be awarded, the shared display is transferred between positions corresponding to the respective gaming terminals. When the payout is determined to be awarded, one of the gaming terminals is determined based on a predetermined condition. The shared display is transferred to the position corresponding to the determined one gaming terminal. After detecting that the shared display has arrived at the position corresponding to the determined one gaming terminal, on the shared display is displayed an effect indicating the determined one gaming terminal. The payout awarding device of the determined one gaming terminal awards the payout. This payout awarded through the only one gaming terminal according to the relation among the symbols rearranged on the shared display realizes a new entertainment characteristic which raises player&#39;s expectation for another payout awarded through the only one gaming terminal in addition to the one awarded as a result of the game run in the gaming terminal. Further, when the payout is determined to be awarded, the shared display is transferred between positions corresponding to the respective gaming terminals and subsequently transferred to the position corresponding to the determined one gaming terminal for awarding the payout. Then, on the shared display is displayed an effect indicating the determined one gaming terminal. This allows players to visually recognize transfers of the shared display and therefore realizes a new entertainment characteristic which raises player&#39;s expectation for which gaming terminal the payout is awarded through. Further, an effect indicating the determined one gaming terminal is displayed after the shared display has arrived at the position corresponding to the determined one gaming terminal. This prevents a loss in expectation for a payout, which is caused by transferring the shared display while displaying thereon the effect. Therefore, a new entertainment characteristic is realized. Further, a single game is created with the use of a plurality of gaming terminals by rearranging, on the shared display, the symbols identical to those in the symbol arrangement of the one gaming terminal in combination with the symbols identical to those in the other symbol arrangement of the other gaming terminal, wherein the one symbol arrangement includes the symbols arranged in arrangement areas of the one gaming terminal, and the other symbol arrangement includes the symbols arranged in arrangement areas of the other gaming terminal. This realizes a new entertainment characteristic which gives the feelings of “unity” and “sharing” to participating players. 
     The present invention is a gaming machine according to the above invention, wherein 
     the center controller is programmed to perform the step of 
     (i6) when the payout is determined to be awarded, determining one of the gaming terminals, based on contribution rates of the combined symbol arrangements of the symbols, in place of (g6). 
     In the above structure, when the payout is determined to be awarded, one of the gaming terminals is determined based on contribution rates of the combined symbol arrangements of the symbols. Thus, one of the gaming terminals for awarding the payout is determined based on contribution rates of the combined symbol arrangements of the symbols. This realizes a new entertainment characteristic. 
     The present invention is a gaming machine according to the above invention, wherein 
     the center controller is programmed to perform the step of 
     (j6) when the payout is determined to be awarded, determining one of the gaming terminals, based on contribution rates of the combined symbol arrangements of the symbols, in place of (h6). 
     In the above structure, when the payout is determined to be awarded, one of the gaming terminals is determined based on contribution rates of the combined symbol arrangements of the symbols. Thus, one of the gaming terminals for awarding the payout is determined based on contribution rates of the combined symbol arrangements of the symbols. This realizes a new entertainment characteristic. 
     The present invention is a gaming machine, including: 
     a plurality of gaming terminals including (i) a terminal display having a matrix of arrangement areas, (ii) a payout awarding device for awarding a player a payout related to the game, and (iii) a terminal controller, and each of which terminals arranges a plurality of symbols in the arrangement areas; 
     a shared display for arranging therein a plurality of symbols and displaying thereon an effect related to the game; 
     a conveying device for supporting the shared display and transferring the shared display to positions corresponding to the respective gaming terminals; and 
     a center controller, wherein 
     the terminal controller performs the steps of: 
     (k1) rearranging symbols in the arrangement areas at a predetermined timing; 
     (k2) awarding a payout according to a relation among the symbols arranged in the arrangement areas; 
     (k3) when a predetermined condition is met, transmitting to the center controller symbols arranged in the arrangement areas and the arrangement of the symbols; and 
     (k4) causing the payout awarding device to award a payout based on an instruction from the center controller, and wherein the center controller is programmed to perform the steps of:
         (l1) when a predetermined condition is met, receiving from each of the terminal controllers symbols and the arrangement of the symbols;       

     (l2) combining one symbol arrangement of one gaming terminal with another symbol arrangement of another gaming terminal, and rearranging, on the shared display, symbols identical to those in the one symbol arrangement and the other symbol arrangement, wherein the one symbol arrangement includes the symbols arranged in arrangement areas of the one gaming terminal, and the other symbol arrangement includes the symbols arranged in arrangement areas of the other gaming terminal; 
     (l3) determining whether to award a payout according to a relation among the symbols rearranged on the shared display; 
     (l4) when the payout is determined to be awarded, causing the conveying device to transfer the shared display between positions corresponding to the respective gaming terminals; 
     (l5) when the payout is determined to be awarded, determining one of the gaming terminals, based on a predetermined condition; 
     (l6) causing the conveying device to transfer the shared display to the position corresponding to the determined one gaming terminal; 
     (l7) displaying an effect indicating the determined one gaming terminal on the shared display; and 
     (l8) instructing the terminal controller of the determined one gaming terminal to award the payout. 
     In the above structure, symbols are rearranged in the arrangement areas on the terminal display of the gaming terminal at a predetermined timing. Then, a payout is awarded according to a relation among the symbols rearranged in the arrangement areas. When a predetermined condition is met, symbols identical to those in one symbol arrangement of one gaming terminal are rearranged on the shared display in combination with symbols identical to those in another symbol arrangement of another gaming terminal, wherein the one symbol arrangement includes the symbols arranged in arrangement areas of the one gaming terminal, and the other symbol arrangement includes the symbols arranged in arrangement areas of the other gaming terminal. Then, whether to award a payout is determined according to a relation among the symbols rearranged on the shared display. When the payout is determined to be awarded, the shared display is transferred between positions corresponding to the respective gaming terminals. When the payout is determined to be awarded, one of the gaming terminals is determined based on a predetermined condition. The shared display is transferred to the position corresponding to the determined one gaming terminal. On the shared display is displayed an effect indicating the determined one gaming terminal. The payout awarding device of the determined one gaming terminal awards the payout. This payout awarded through the only one gaming terminal according to the relation among the symbols rearranged on the shared display realizes a new entertainment characteristic which raises player&#39;s expectation for another payout awarded through the only one gaming terminal in addition to the one awarded as a result of the game run in the gaming terminal. Further, when the payout is determined to be awarded, the shared display is transferred between positions corresponding to the respective gaming terminals and subsequently transferred to the position corresponding to the determined one gaming terminal for awarding the payout. Then, on the shared display is displayed an effect indicating the determined one gaming terminal. This allows players to visually recognize transfers of the shared display and therefore realizes a new entertainment characteristic which raises player&#39;s expectation for which gaming terminal the payout is awarded through. Further, a single game is created with the use of a plurality of gaming terminals by rearranging, on the shared display, the symbols identical to those in the symbol arrangement of the one gaming terminal in combination with the symbols identical to those in the other symbol arrangement of the other gaming terminal, wherein the one symbol arrangement includes the symbols arranged in arrangement areas of the one gaming terminal, and the other symbol arrangement includes the symbols arranged in arrangement areas of the other gaming terminal. This realizes a new entertainment characteristic which gives the feelings of “unity” and “sharing” to participating players. 
     The present invention is a playing method of a gaming machine, in which a plurality of symbols are arranged in a matrix of arrangement areas on terminal displays of a plurality of gaming terminals, 
     the method comprising the steps of: 
     (m1) rearranging symbols in the arrangement areas of each of the gaming terminals, based on running of a game in the gaming terminal; 
     (m2) awarding a payout according to a relation among the symbols rearranged in the arrangement areas; 
     (m3) combining one symbol arrangement of one gaming terminal with another symbol arrangement of another gaming terminal, and rearranging, on a shared display, symbols identical to those in the one symbol arrangement and the other symbol arrangement, wherein the one symbol arrangement includes the symbols arranged in arrangement areas of the one gaming terminal, and the other symbol arrangement includes the symbols arranged in arrangement areas of the other gaming terminal; 
     (m4) determining whether to award a payout according to a relation among the symbols rearranged on the shared display; 
     (m5) when the payout is determined to be awarded, transferring the shared display between positions corresponding to the respective gaming terminals; 
     (m6) when the payout is determined to be awarded, determining one of the gaming terminals, based on a predetermined condition; 
     (m7) transferring the shared display to the position corresponding to the determined one gaming terminal; 
     (m8) displaying an effect indicating the determined one gaming terminal on the shared display; and 
     (m9) causing the determined one gaming terminal to award the payout. 
     In the above structure, this payout awarded through the only one gaming terminal according to the relation among the symbols rearranged on the shared display realizes a new entertainment characteristic which raises player&#39;s expectation for another payout awarded through the only one gaming terminal in addition to the one awarded as a result of the game run in the gaming terminal. Further, when the payout is determined to be awarded, the shared display is transferred between positions corresponding to the respective gaming terminals and subsequently transferred to the position corresponding to the determined one gaming terminal for awarding the payout. Then, on the shared display is displayed an effect indicating the determined one gaming terminal. This allows players to visually recognize transfers of the shared display and therefore realizes a new entertainment characteristic which raises player&#39;s expectation for which gaming terminal the payout is awarded through. Further, a single game is created with the use of a plurality of gaming terminals by rearranging, on the shared display, the symbols identical to those in the symbol arrangement of the one gaming terminal in combination with the symbols identical to those in the other symbol arrangement of the other gaming terminal, wherein the one symbol arrangement includes the symbols arranged in arrangement areas of the one gaming terminal, and the other symbol arrangement includes the symbols arranged in arrangement areas of the other gaming terminal. This realizes a new entertainment characteristic which gives the feelings of “unity” and “sharing” to participating players. 
     A gaming machine of the present invention, includes: 
     a plurality of gaming terminals capable of running a game independently from each other, each of which terminals includes a terminal display having a matrix of arrangement areas and which arranges a plurality of symbols in the arrangement areas; 
     a shared display for arranging therein a plurality of symbols; 
     a center controller programmed to perform the steps of: 
     (n1) rearranging symbols in the arrangement areas of each of the gaming terminals, based on running of a game in the gaming terminal; 
     (n2) awarding a payout according to a relation among the symbols rearranged in the arrangement areas; 
     (n3) combining one arrangement of symbols rearranged in the arrangement areas of one gaming terminal with another arrangement of symbols rearranged in the arrangement areas of another gaming terminal to form one symbol matrix including the symbols of the one arrangement and the other arrangement; 
     (n4) scrolling the symbols in the symbol matrix, on the shared display; 
     (n5) rearranging a part of the symbols in the symbol matrix on the shared display; and 
     (n6) awarding a payout according to a relation among the symbols rearranged on the shared display. 
     In the above structure, a game is run in each of the gaming terminals. Based on the running of the game, symbols are rearranged in the arrangement areas on the terminal display of the gaming terminal. Then, a payout is awarded according to a relation among the symbols rearranged in the arrangement areas. Then, one symbol matrix including a plurality of symbol arrangements is formed by combining one arrangement of symbols rearranged in arrangement areas of one gaming terminal and another arrangement of symbols rearranged in arrangement areas of another gaming terminal. Then, the symbols in the symbol matrix are scrolled on the shared display. The symbols in the symbol matrix are partly rearranged on the shared display. Then, a payout is awarded according to a relation among the symbols rearranged on the shared display. This payout awarded according to the relation among the symbols rearranged on the shared display realizes a new entertainment characteristic which raises player&#39;s expectation for another payout in addition to the one awarded as a result of the game run in the gaming terminal. Further, the above structure creates a single game by combining one arrangement of symbols rearranged in arrangement areas of one gaming terminal with another arrangement of symbols in the arrangement areas of another gaming terminal to form one symbol matrix including the one arrangement and the other arrangement. This realizes a new entertainment characteristic which gives the feelings of “unity” and “sharing” to participating players. Further, a payout is awarded based on a part of the symbols in the symbol matrix formed. This provides a wider variation of payout than the variation of payout awarded based on a fixed symbol matrix of a known art. As such, it is possible to provide a new entertainment characteristic. 
     The present invention is a gaming machine, including 
     a plurality of gaming terminals capable of running a game independently from each other, each of which terminals includes a terminal display having a matrix of arrangement areas and which arranges a plurality of symbols in the arrangement areas; 
     a shared display for arranging therein a plurality of symbols; 
     a center controller programmed to perform the steps of: 
     (o1) rearranging symbols in the arrangement areas of each of the gaming terminals, based on running of a game in the gaming terminal; 
     (o2) awarding a payout according to a relation among the symbols rearranged in the arrangement areas; 
     (o3) combining, on the row or column basis, one arrangement of symbols rearranged in the arrangement areas of one gaming terminal with another arrangement of symbols rearranged in the arrangement areas of another gaming terminal to form one symbol matrix including the symbols of the one arrangement and the other arrangement; and 
     (o4) scrolling the symbol matrix having the plurality of symbols on the shared display; 
     (o5) rearranging on the shared display some of the symbols in the symbol matrix, without altering the arrangement of the symbol matrix; 
     (o6) awarding a payout according to a relation among the symbols rearranged on the shared display. 
     In the above structure, a game is run in each of the gaming terminals. Based on the running of the game, symbols are rearranged in the arrangement areas on the terminal display of the gaming terminal. Then, a payout is awarded according to a relation among the symbols rearranged in the arrangement areas. Then, one symbol matrix including a plurality of symbol arrangements is formed by combining, on the row or column basis, one arrangement of symbols rearranged in arrangement areas of one gaming terminal and another arrangement of symbols rearranged in arrangement areas of another gaming terminal. The symbol matrix having the plurality of symbols is scrolled on the shared display. Then, some of the symbols in the symbol matrix are rearranged on the shared display, without altering the arrangement of the symbol matrix. Then, a payout is awarded according to a relation among the symbols rearranged on the shared display. This payout awarded according to the relation among the symbols rearranged on the shared display realizes a new entertainment characteristic which raises player&#39;s expectation for another payout in addition to the one awarded as a result of the game run in the gaming terminal. Further, the above structure creates a single game by combining one arrangement of symbols rearranged in arrangement areas of one gaming terminal with another arrangement of symbols in the arrangement areas of another gaming terminal to form one symbol matrix including the one arrangement and the other arrangement. This realizes a new entertainment characteristic which gives the feelings of “unity” and “sharing” to participating players. Further, a payout is awarded based on a part of the symbols in the symbol matrix formed. This provides a wider variation of payout than the variation of payout awarded based on a fixed symbol matrix of a known art. As such, it is possible to provide a new entertainment characteristic. Further, Then, some of the symbols in the symbol matrix are scrolled and rearranged on the shared display, without altering the arrangement of the symbol matrix.. Therefore an arrangement of symbols rearranged in one gaming terminal stand higher chance of recurring on the shared display. Further, the structure improves the player&#39;s predictability of symbol arrangements on the shared display, and therefore increases the player&#39;s expectation at a time of scrolling the symbols on the shared display. Thus, it is possible to provide a new entertainment characteristic. 
     Note that “combining, on the row basis” means to joint one or more rows in a direction in which rows are aligned (hereinafter, row direction). Note further that “combining, on the column basis” means to joint one or more columns in a direction in which columns are aligned (hereinafter, column direction). 
     The present invention is a gaming machine, including: 
     a plurality of gaming terminals capable of running a game independently from each other, each of which terminals includes a terminal display having a matrix of arrangement areas and which arranges a plurality of symbols in the arrangement areas; 
     a shared display for arranging therein a plurality of symbols; 
     a center controller programmed to perform the steps of: 
     (p1) rearranging symbols in the arrangement areas of each of the gaming terminals, based on running of a game in the gaming terminal; 
     (p2) awarding a payout according to a relation among the symbols rearranged in the arrangement areas; 
     (p3) combining one arrangement of symbols rearranged in the arrangement areas of one gaming terminal with another arrangement of symbols rearranged in the arrangement areas of another gaming terminal to form one symbol matrix including the symbols of the one arrangement and the other arrangement, the positions of the symbols in the other symbol arrangement being different from those of the symbols in the one symbol arrangement; and 
     (p4) scrolling a row or column of the symbol matrix having the symbols on the shared display; 
     (p5) rearranging on the shared display some of the symbols in the symbol matrix so as to conform with a row or column of arrangements in the symbol matrix; and 
     (p4) awarding a payout according to a relation among the symbols rearranged on the shared display. 
     In the above structure, a game is run in each of the gaming terminals. Based on the running of the game, symbols are rearranged in the matrix of the arrangement areas on the terminal display of the gaming terminal. Then, a payout is awarded according to a relation among the symbols rearranged in the arrangement areas. One arrangement of symbols rearranged in the arrangement areas of one gaming terminal with another arrangement of symbols rearranged in the arrangement areas of another gaming terminal are combined to form one symbol matrix including the symbols of the one arrangement and the other arrangement, the positions of the symbols in the other symbol arrangement being different from those of the symbols in the one symbol arrangement. Then, a row or column of the symbol matrix having the symbols is scrolled on the shared display. Some of the symbols in the symbol matrix are then arranged on the shared display so as to conform with a row or column of arrangements in the symbol matrix. Then, a payout is awarded according to a relation among the symbols rearranged on the shared display. This payout awarded according to the relation among the symbols rearranged on the shared display realizes a new entertainment characteristic which raises player&#39;s expectation for another payout in addition to the one awarded as a result of the game run in the gaming terminal. Further, the above structure creates a single game by combining one arrangement of symbols rearranged in arrangement areas of one gaming terminal with another arrangement of symbols in the arrangement areas of another gaming terminal to form one symbol matrix including the one arrangement and the other arrangement. This realizes a new entertainment characteristic which gives the feelings of “unity” and “sharing” to participating players. Further, a payout is awarded based on a part of the symbols in the symbol matrix formed. This provides a wider variation of payout than the variation of payout awarded based on a fixed symbol matrix of a known art. As such, it is possible to provide a new entertainment characteristic. Further, since a row or column of the symbol matrix is scrolled on the shared display and some of the symbols in the symbol matrix are rearranged on the shared display so as to conform with a row or column of arrangements in the symbol matrix, an arrangement of symbols in a gaming terminal may be formed on the shared display. This provides a wider variation of payout than the variation of payout awarded based on a conventional fixed symbol matrix. As such, it is possible to provide a new entertainment characteristic. 
     The present invention is a gaming machine including: plurality of gaming terminals each of which terminals includes a terminal display having a matrix of arrangement areas and which arranges a plurality of symbols in the arrangement areas, and a plurality of gaming terminals each having a terminal controller; 
     a shared display for arranging therein a plurality of symbols; and 
     a center controller, 
     wherein the terminal controller is programmed to perform the steps of: (q1) rearranging symbols in the arrangement areas at a predetermined timing, 
     (q2) awarding a payout according to a relation among the symbols rearranged in the arrangement areas, 
     (q3) when a predetermined condition is met, transmitting to the center controller symbols rearranged in the arrangement areas and the arrangement of the symbols, 
     and wherein the center controller is programmed to perform the steps of: (r1) when a predetermined condition is met, receiving from each of the terminal controllers symbols and the arrangement of the symbols, 
     (r2) combining one arrangement of symbols rearranged in the arrangement areas of one gaming terminal with another arrangement of symbols rearranged in the arrangement areas of another gaming terminal to form one symbol matrix including the symbols of the one arrangement and the other arrangement, 
     (r3) scrolling the symbols in the symbol matrix, on the shared display, 
     (r4) rearranging a part of the symbols in the symbol matrix on the shared display, and 
     (r5) awarding a payout according to a relation among the symbols rearranged on the shared display. 
     In the above structure, symbols are rearranged in the arrangement areas on the terminal display of the gaming terminal at a predetermined timing. Then, a payout is awarded according to a relation among the symbols rearranged in the arrangement areas. When a predetermined condition is met, one arrangement of symbols rearranged in the arrangement areas of one gaming terminal is combined with another arrangement of symbols rearranged in the arrangement areas of another gaming terminal to form one symbol matrix. Then, the symbols in the symbol matrix are scrolled on the shared display. The symbols in the symbol matrix are partly rearranged on the shared display. Then, a payout is awarded according to a relation among the symbols rearranged on the shared display. This payout awarded according to the relation among the symbols rearranged on the shared display realizes a new entertainment characteristic which raises player&#39;s expectation for another payout in addition to the one awarded as a result of the game run in the gaming terminal. Further, the above structure creates one game involving a plurality of gaming terminals by forming one symbol matrix including a combination of one arrangement of symbols rearranged in arrangement areas of one gaming terminal and another arrangement of symbols rearranged in arrangement areas of another gaming terminal. This realizes a new entertainment characteristic which gives the feelings of “unity” and “sharing” to participating players. Further, a payout is awarded based on a part of the symbols in the symbol matrix formed. This provides a wider variation of payout than the variation of payout awarded based on a fixed symbol matrix of a known art. As such, it is possible to provide a new entertainment characteristic. 
     A playing method of the present invention is for a gaming machine including a plurality of gaming terminals each having a terminal display, in which method a plurality of symbols are arranged in a matrix of arrangement areas in the terminal display of each of the gaming terminals, the method comprising the steps of: 
     (s1) rearranging symbols in the arrangement areas of each of the gaming terminals, based on running of a game in the gaming terminal; 
     (s2) awarding a payout according to a relation among the symbols rearranged in the arrangement areas; 
     (s3) combining one arrangement of symbols rearranged in the arrangement areas of one gaming terminal with another arrangement of symbols rearranged in the arrangement areas of another gaming terminal to form one symbol matrix including the symbols of the one arrangement and the other arrangement; 
     (s4) scrolling the symbols in the symbol matrix, on the shared display; and 
     (s5) awarding a payout according to a relation among the symbols rearranged on the shared display. 
     With the above structure, a payout awarded according to the relation among the symbols rearranged on the shared display realizes a new entertainment characteristic which raises player&#39;s expectation for another payout in addition. Further, the above structure creates a single game by combining one arrangement of symbols rearranged in arrangement areas of one gaming terminal with another arrangement of symbols in the arrangement areas of another gaming terminal to form one symbol matrix including the one arrangement and the other arrangement. This realizes a new entertainment characteristic which gives the feelings of “unity” and “sharing” to participating players. Further, a payout is awarded based on a part of the symbols in the symbol matrix formed. This provides a wider variation of payout than the variation of payout awarded based on a fixed symbol matrix of a known art. As such, it is possible to provide a new entertainment characteristic. 
     A gaming machine of the present invention includes: 
     a plurality of gaming terminals capable of running a game independently of each other, each of which terminals includes (i) a terminal display having a matrix of arrangement areas, (ii) a bet unit which receives a side bet from a player, and (iii) a payout awarding device for awarding a player a payout related to the game, and each of which terminals arranges a plurality of symbols in the arrangement areas; 
     a shared display for arranging therein a plurality of symbols; and 
     a center controller programmed to perform the steps of: 
     (t1) causing the bet unit to receive the side bet; 
     (t2) rearranging symbols in the arrangement areas of each of the gaming terminals, based on running of a game in the gaming terminal; 
     (t3) awarding a payout according to a relation among the symbols rearranged in the arrangement areas; 
     (t4) combining one symbol arrangement of one gaming terminal with another symbol arrangement of another gaming terminal, and rearranging, on the shared display, symbols identical to those in the one symbol arrangement and the other symbol arrangement, wherein (i) the one symbol arrangement includes the symbols arranged in arrangement areas of the one gaming terminal, and the other symbol arrangement includes the symbols arranged in arrangement areas of the other gaming terminal, and (ii) when combining symbol arrangements, a symbol arrangement of a side-bet gaming terminal (hereinafter, side-bet gaming terminal)is given a priority over a symbol arrangement of a gaming terminal having received no side bet; and 
     (t5) causing the payout awarding device of the side-bet gaming terminal to award a payout according to a relation among the symbols rearranged on the shared display. 
     In the above structure, a game is run in each of the gaming terminals. The bet unit receives a side bet. Based on the running of the game, symbols are rearranged in the arrangement areas on the terminal display of the gaming terminal. Then, a payout is awarded according to a relation among the symbols rearranged in the arrangement areas. One symbol arrangement of one gaming terminal is combined with symbols identical to those in another symbol arrangement of another gaming terminal while giving a priority to a symbol arrangement of a side-bet gaming terminal, wherein the one symbol arrangement includes the symbols arranged in arrangement areas of the one gaming terminal, and the other symbol arrangement includes the symbols arranged in arrangement areas of the other gaming terminal. Then, the combination of symbol arrangements formed is rearranged on the shared display. A payout is awarded through the side-bet gaming terminal, according to a relation among the symbols rearranged on the shared display. This payout awarded according to the relation among the symbols rearranged on the shared display realizes a new entertainment characteristic which raises player&#39;s expectation for another payout awarded through the only one gaming terminal in addition to the one awarded as a result of the game run in the gaming terminal. Further, one symbol arrangement of one gaming terminal is combined with symbols identical to those in another symbol arrangement of another gaming terminal while giving a priority to a symbol arrangement of a side-bet gaming terminal, wherein the one symbol arrangement includes the symbols arranged in arrangement areas of the one gaming terminal, and the other symbol arrangement includes the symbols arranged in arrangement areas of the other gaming terminal. Then, the combination of symbol arrangements formed is rearranged on the shared display. Thus, one game is formed with the side-bet gaming terminals. This realizes a new entertainment characteristic which gives the feelings of “unity” and “sharing” to participating players. Further, the payout awarding device of a side-bet gaming terminal awards a payout. Thus, a player is given an incentive to place a side bet. This realizes a new entertainment characteristic. 
     A gaming machine of the present invention includes: 
     a plurality of gaming terminals capable of running a game independently of each other, each of which terminals includes (i) a terminal display having a matrix of arrangement areas, (ii) a bet unit which receives a side bet from a player, (iii) a payout awarding device for awarding a player a payout related to the game, and (iv) an illumination device which emits light, and each of which terminals arranges a plurality of symbols in the arrangement areas; 
     a shared display for arranging therein a plurality of symbols; and 
     a center controller programmed to perform the steps of: 
     (u1) causing the bet unit to receive the side bet; 
     (u2) differentiating between how the illumination device lights when a side bet is received and when no side bet is received; 
     (u3) rearranging symbols in the arrangement areas of each of the gaming terminals, based on running of a game in the gaming terminal; 
     (u4) awarding a payout according to a relation among the symbols rearranged in the arrangement areas; 
     (u5) combining one symbol arrangement of one gaming terminal with another symbol arrangement of another gaming terminal, and rearranging, on the shared display, symbols identical to those in the one symbol arrangement and the other symbol arrangement, wherein (i) the one symbol arrangement includes the symbols arranged in arrangement areas of the one gaming terminal, and the other symbol arrangement includes the symbols arranged in arrangement areas of the other gaming terminal, and (ii) when combining symbol arrangements, a symbol arrangement of a side-bet gaming terminal is given a priority over a symbol arrangement of a gaming terminal having received no side bet; and 
     (u6) causing the payout awarding device of the side-bet gaming terminal to award a payout according to a relation among the symbols rearranged on the shared display. 
     In the above structure, a game is run in each of the gaming terminals. The bet unit receives a side bet. How the illumination device lights when the side bet is received, is differentiated from how the illumination device lights when no side bet is received. Based on the running of the game, symbols are rearranged in the arrangement areas on the terminal display of the gaming terminal. Then, a payout is awarded according to a relation among the symbols rearranged in the arrangement areas. One symbol arrangement of one gaming terminal is combined with symbols identical to those in another symbol arrangement of another gaming terminal while giving a priority to a symbol arrangement of a side-bet gaming terminal, wherein the one symbol arrangement includes the symbols arranged in arrangement areas of the one gaming terminal, and the other symbol arrangement includes the symbols arranged in arrangement areas of the other gaming terminal. Then, the combination of symbol arrangements formed is rearranged on the shared display. A payout is awarded through the side-bet gaming terminal, according to a relation among the symbols rearranged on the shared display. This payout awarded according to the relation among the symbols rearranged on the shared display realizes a new entertainment characteristic which raises player&#39;s expectation for another payout awarded through the only one gaming terminal in addition to the one awarded as a result of the game run in the gaming terminal. Further, one symbol arrangement of one gaming terminal is combined with symbols identical to those in another symbol arrangement of another gaming terminal while giving a priority to a symbol arrangement of a side-bet gaming terminal, wherein the one symbol arrangement includes the symbols arranged in arrangement areas of the one gaming terminal, and the other symbol arrangement includes the symbols arranged in arrangement areas of the other gaming terminal. Then, the combination of symbol arrangements formed is rearranged on the shared display. Thus, one game is formed with the side-bet gaming terminal. This realizes a new entertainment characteristic which gives the feelings of “unity” and “sharing” to participating players. Further, the payout awarding device of a side-bet gaming terminal awards a payout. Thus, a player is given an incentive to place a side bet. This realizes a new entertainment characteristic. Further, the illumination device lights differently when a side bet is received from when no side bet is received. Yet further, a player is able to visually recognize how the illumination device of a gaming terminal lights, through which gaming terminal a payout is awarded based on symbols rearranged on the shared display. Thus, a player is given an incentive to place a side bet. This realizes a new entertainment characteristic. 
     The present invention is the above mentioned gaming machine in which the center controller is programmed to perform the step of (v2) instead of (u2): 
     (v2) causing the illumination device to light when a side bet is received, and causing the illumination device to turn off when no side bet is received. 
     According to the above structure, the illumination device lights when a side bet is received. Also according to the above structure, a player is able to visually recognize how the illumination device of a gaming terminal lights, through which gaming terminal a payout is awarded based on symbols rearranged on the shared display. Thus, the player is given an incentive to place a side bet. This realizes a new entertainment characteristic. 
     The present invention is the above mentioned gaming terminal in which the illumination device is capable of lighting in two colors, and the center controller is programmed to perform the step of (w2) instead of (u2): 
     (w2) causing the illumination device to light in different colors when the side bet is received, from when no side bet is received. 
     According to the above structure, the illumination device lights in different colors depending on whether or not a side bet is placed. Also according to the above structure, a player is able to visually recognize how the illumination device of a gaming terminal lights, through which gaming terminal a payout is awarded based on symbols rearranged on the shared display. Thus, the player is given an incentive to place a side bet. This realizes a new entertainment characteristic. 
     The present invention is a gaming machine, including: 
     a plurality of gaming terminals capable of running a game independently of each other, each of which terminals includes (i) a terminal display having a matrix of arrangement areas, (ii) a bet unit which receives a side bet from a player, (iii) a payout awarding device for awarding a player a payout related to the game, and (iv) a terminal controller, and each of which terminals arranges a plurality of symbols in the arrangement areas; 
     a shared display for arranging therein a plurality of symbols and displaying an effect related to the game; and 
     a center controller, 
     wherein the terminal controller performs the steps of: (x1) causing the bet unit to receive the side bet; 
     (x2) rearranging the symbols in the arrangement areas based on a predetermined timing; 
     (x3) awarding a payout according to a relation among the symbols rearranged in the arrangement areas; 
     (x4) when a predetermined condition is met, transmitting to the center controller, information on the symbols rearranged in the arrangement areas, and whether or not the side bet is received; and 
     (x5) causing the payout awarding device to award a payout based on an instruction from the center controller. 
     (y1) when a predetermined condition is met, receiving from the terminal controller of each of the gaming terminals, the information on the symbols, an arrangement of the symbols, and whether or not a side bet is received; 
     (y2) combining one symbol arrangement of one gaming terminal with another symbol arrangement of another gaming terminal, and rearranging, on the shared display, symbols identical to those in the one symbol arrangement and the other symbol arrangement, wherein (i) the one symbol arrangement includes the symbols arranged in arrangement areas of the one gaming terminal, and the other symbol arrangement includes the symbols arranged in arrangement areas of the other gaming terminal, and (ii) when combining symbol arrangements, a symbol arrangement of a side-bet gaming terminal is given a priority over a symbol arrangement of a gaming terminal having received no side bet; 
     (y3) instructing the terminal controller of the side-bet gaming terminal to award a payout according to a relation among the symbols rearranged on the shared display. 
     According to the above structure, a side bet is received by the bet unit. Based on a predetermined timing, symbols are rearranged in the arrangement areas on the terminal display of the gaming terminal. Then, a payout is awarded according to a relation among the symbols rearranged in the arrangement areas. When a predetermined condition is met, one symbol arrangement of one gaming terminal is combined with symbols identical to those in another symbol arrangement of another gaming terminal while giving a priority to a symbol arrangement of a side-bet gaming terminal, wherein the one symbol arrangement includes the symbols arranged in arrangement areas of the one gaming terminal, and the other symbol arrangement includes the symbols arranged in arrangement areas of the other gaming terminal. Then, the combination of symbol arrangements formed is rearranged on the shared display. A payout is awarded according to a relation among symbols rearranged on the shred display, through the side-bet gaming terminal. This payout awarded according to the relation among the symbols rearranged on the shared display realizes a new entertainment characteristic which raises player&#39;s expectation for another payout awarded in addition to the one awarded as a result of the game run in the gaming terminal. Further, one symbol arrangement of one gaming terminal is combined with symbols identical to those in another symbol arrangement of another gaming terminal while giving a priority to a symbol arrangement of a side-bet gaming terminal, wherein the one symbol arrangement includes the symbols arranged in arrangement areas of the one gaming terminal, and the other symbol arrangement includes the symbols arranged in arrangement areas of the other gaming terminal. Then, the combination of symbol arrangements formed is rearranged on the shared display. Thus, one game is formed with the side-bet gaming terminal. This realizes a new entertainment characteristic which gives the feelings of “unity” and “sharing” to participating players. Further, the payout awarding device of a side-bet gaming terminal awards a payout. Thus, a player is given an incentive to place a side bet. This realizes a new entertainment characteristic. 
     A playing method of a gaming machine in which gaming machine a plurality of symbols are arranged in a matrix of arrangement areas on terminal displays of a plurality of gaming terminals, the method including the steps of: 
     (z1) causing a bet unit of each of a plurality of gaming terminals to receive a side bet; 
     (z2) rearranging symbols in arrangement areas of each of the gaming terminals, based on running of a game in the gaming terminal; 
     (z3) awarding a payout according to a relation among the symbols rearranged in the arrangement areas; 
     (z4) combining one symbol arrangement of one gaming terminal with another symbol arrangement of another gaming terminal, and rearranging, on a shared display, symbols identical to those in the one symbol arrangement and the other symbol arrangement, wherein (i) the one symbol arrangement includes the symbols arranged in arrangement areas of the one gaming terminal, and the other symbol arrangement includes the symbols arranged in arrangement areas of the other gaming terminal, and (ii) when combining symbol arrangements, a symbol arrangement of a side-bet gaming terminal is given a priority over a symbol arrangement of a gaming terminal having received no side bet; 
     (z5) causing the payout awarding device of the side-bet gaming terminal to award a payout according to a relation among the symbols rearranged on the shared display. 
     In the above structure, this payout awarded according to the relation among the symbols rearranged on the shared display realizes a new entertainment characteristic which raises player&#39;s expectation for another payout awarded in addition to the one awarded as a result of the game run in the gaming terminal. Further, one symbol arrangement of one gaming terminal is combined with symbols identical to those in another symbol arrangement of another gaming terminal while giving a priority to a symbol arrangement of a side-bet gaming terminal, wherein the one symbol arrangement includes the symbols arranged in arrangement areas of the one gaming terminal, and the other symbol arrangement includes the symbols arranged in arrangement areas of the other gaming terminal. Then, the combination of symbol arrangements formed is rearranged on the shared display. Thus, one game is formed with the side-bet gaming terminal. This realizes a new entertainment characteristic which gives the feelings of “unity” and “sharing” to participating players. Further, the payout awarding device of a side-bet gaming terminal awards a payout. Thus, a player is given an incentive to place a side bet. This realizes a new entertainment characteristic. 
     The present invention provides a gaming machine comprising: a common display which arranges a plurality of symbols in a matrix of arrangement areas; a plurality of terminal devices each having a terminal display which arranges a plurality of symbols in a matrix of arrangement areas and a side-bet device which selects to or not to participate in a game played on the common display, the terminal device rearranging the plurality of symbols in the arrangement areas on the terminal display and running a game to award a base payout in accordance with a relation among the rearranged symbols; and a controller which is programmed to operate in the steps of: (A1) putting the side-bet device into a selectable state; (A2) rearranging the symbols in the arrangement areas in the plurality of terminal devices; (A3) awarding a base payout in accordance with a relation among the symbols rearranged in the arrangement areas; (A4) rearranging, on the common display, predetermined ones of the symbols rearranged in the terminal device selected by the side-bet device; and (A5) awarding a bonus payout in accordance with the number of the predetermined symbols thus rearranged on the common display. 
     According to the above-described structure, it is possible to rearrange, on the common display, predetermined ones of the symbols rearranged in the terminal device selected by the side-bet device, and to award the bonus payout in accordance with the number of the predetermined symbols rearranged on the common display. A player playing on the terminal device which has made a side-bet is given a bonus payout as a result of a side-bet game, which bonus payout is affected by game results of players playing on neighboring terminal devices. Therefore, the player making a side-bet can sometimes enjoy a side-bet game while feeling some togetherness (unity) with players playing on neighboring terminal devices. 
     In the above-described gaming machine, when awarding a bonus payout, the controller awards a bonus payout in accordance with the number of terminal devices selected by the side-bet device. 
     According to the above-described structure, when awarding a bonus payout, a bonus payout corresponding to the number of terminal devices selected by the side-bet device can be awarded. This enables imbalance of the bonus payout due to difference in the number of participating players to be corrected by, for example, setting a bonus payout rate corresponding to the number of predetermined symbols to a higher rate when the smaller number of terminal devices participate in a side-bet and setting a bonus payout rate corresponding to the number of predetermined symbols to a lower rate when the larger number of terminal devices participate in a side-bet. Therefore, the player can enjoy the side-bet game even when there are a small number of participants. 
     The present invention provides a gaming machine comprising: a common display which arranges a plurality of symbols in a matrix of arrangement areas; a plurality of terminal devices each having a terminal display which arranges a plurality of symbols in a matrix of arrangement areas and a side-bet device which selects to or not to participate in a game played on the common display, the terminal device rearranging the plurality of symbols in the arrangement areas on the terminal display and running a game to award a base payout in accordance with a relation among the rearranged symbols; and a controller which is programmed to operate in the steps of: (B1) putting the side-bet device into a selectable state until the symbols are rearranged in the arrangement areas in the plurality of terminal devices; (B2) rearranging the symbols in the arrangement areas in the plurality of terminal devices; (B3) awarding a base payout in accordance with a relation among the symbols rearranged in the arrangement areas; (B4) rearranging, on the common display, predetermined ones of the symbols rearranged in the terminal device selected by the side-bet device; and (B5) awarding a bonus payout in accordance with the number of the predetermined symbols thus rearranged on the common display. 
     According to the above-described structure, the side-bet device can be put into a selectable state until the symbols are rearranged in the arrangement areas in the plurality of terminal devices. This allows the player to make a side-bet until rearrangement is completed in a base game on the terminal device. Therefore, the player can make a side-bet while watching how the predetermined symbols used for the side-bet game are rearranged. 
     In the above-described gaming machine, when awarding a bonus payout, the controller awards a bonus payout in accordance with the number of terminal devices selected by the side-bet device. 
     According to the above-described structure, when awarding a bonus payout, a bonus payout corresponding to the number of terminal devices selected by the side-bet device can be awarded. This enables imbalance of the bonus payout due to difference in the number of participating players to be corrected by, for example, setting a bonus payout rate corresponding to the number of predetermined symbols to a higher rate when the smaller number of terminal devices participate in a side-bet and setting a bonus payout rate corresponding to the number of predetermined symbols to a lower rate when the larger number of terminal devices participate in a side-bet. Therefore, the player can enjoy the side-bet game even when there are a small number of participants. 
     The present invention provides a gaming machine comprising: a common display which arranges a plurality of symbols in a matrix of arrangement areas; a plurality of terminal devices each having a terminal display which arranges a plurality of symbols in a matrix of arrangement areas and a side-bet device which selects to or not to participate in a game played on the common display, the terminal device rearranging the plurality of symbols in the arrangement areas on the terminal display and running a game to award a payout in accordance with a relation among the rearranged symbols; and a controller which is programmed to operate in the steps of: (C1) putting the side-bet device into a selectable state; (C2) rearranging the symbols in the arrangement areas in the plurality of terminal devices; (C3) awarding a base payout in accordance with a relation among the symbols rearranged in the arrangement areas; (C4) rearranging, on the common display, predetermined ones of the symbols rearranged in the terminal device selected by the side-bet device; (C5) rearranging the predetermined symbols thus rearranged, in the arrangement areas in the common display; and (C6) awarding a bonus payout in accordance with the number of the predetermined symbols thus rearranged. 
     According to the above-described structure, it is possible: to rearrange, on the common display, predetermined one of the symbols rearranged in the terminal device selected by the side-bet device; to rearrange, in the arrangement areas, the predetermined symbols thus rearranged on the common display; and to award a bonus payout in accordance with the number of the predetermined symbols rearranged. This may allow a player to enjoy a side-bet game with rearrangement on the common display. In addition, a player playing on the terminal device which has made a side-bet is given a bonus payout as a result of a side-bet game, which bonus payout is affected by game results of players playing on neighboring terminal devices. Therefore, the player making a side-bet can sometimes enjoy a side-bet game while feeling some togetherness (unity) with players playing on neighboring terminal devices. 
     In the above-described gaming machine, when awarding a bonus payout, the controller awards a bonus payout in accordance with the number of terminal devices selected by the side-bet device. 
     According to the above-described structure, when awarding a bonus payout, a bonus payout corresponding to the number of terminal devices selected by the side-bet device can be awarded. This enables imbalance of the bonus payout due to difference in the number of participating players to be corrected by, for example, setting a bonus payout rate corresponding to the number of predetermined symbols to a higher rate when the smaller number of terminal devices participate in a side-bet and setting a bonus payout rate corresponding to the number of predetermined symbols to a lower rate when the larger number of terminal devices participate in a side-bet. Therefore, the player can enjoy the side-bet game even when there are a small number of participants. 
     The present invention provides a gaming machine comprising: a common display which arranges a plurality of symbols in a matrix of arrangement areas; a plurality of terminal devices each having a terminal display which arranges a plurality of symbols in a matrix of arrangement areas and a side-bet device which selects to or not to participate in a game played on the common display, the terminal device rearranging the plurality of symbols in the arrangement areas on the terminal display and running a game to award a payout in accordance with a relation among the rearranged symbols; and a controller which is programmed to operate in the steps of: (D1) putting the side-bet device into a selectable state until the symbols are rearranged in the arrangement areas in the plurality of terminal devices; (D2) rearranging the symbols in the arrangement areas in the plurality of terminal devices; (D3) awarding a base payout in accordance with a relation among the symbols rearranged in the arrangement areas; (D4) rearranging, on the common display, predetermined ones of the symbols rearranged in the terminal device selected by the side-bet device; (D5) rearranging the predetermined symbols thus rearranged, in the arrangement areas in the common display; and (D6) awarding a bonus payout in accordance with the number of the predetermined symbols thus rearranged. 
     According to the above-described structure, the side-bet device can be put into a selectable state until the symbols are rearranged in the arrangement areas in the plurality of terminal devices. This allows the player to make a side-bet until rearrangement is completed in a base game on the terminal device. Therefore, the player can make a side-bet while watching how the predetermined symbols used for the side-bet game are rearranged. 
     In the above-described gaming machine, when awarding a bonus payout, the controller awards a bonus payout in accordance with the number of terminal devices selected by the side-bet device. 
     According to the above-described structure, when awarding a bonus payout, a bonus payout corresponding to the number of terminal devices selected by the side-bet device can be awarded. This enables imbalance of the bonus payout due to difference in the number of participating players to be corrected by, for example, setting a bonus payout rate corresponding to the number of predetermined symbols to a higher rate when the smaller number of terminal devices participate in a side-bet and setting a bonus payout rate corresponding to the number of predetermined symbols to a lower rate when the larger number of terminal devices participate in a side-bet. Therefore, the player can enjoy the side-bet game even when there are a small number of participants. 
     The present invention provides a playing method of a gaming machine comprising: a common display which arranges a plurality of symbols in a matrix of arrangement areas; and a plurality of terminal devices each having a terminal display which arranges a plurality of symbols in a matrix of arrangement areas and a side-bet device which selects to or not to participate in a game played on the common display, the terminal device rearranging the plurality of symbols in the arrangement areas on the terminal display and running a game to award a base payout in accordance with a relation among the rearranged symbols. The method includes the steps of: putting the side-bet device into a selectable state; rearranging the symbols in the arrangement areas in the plurality of terminal devices; awarding a base payout in accordance with a relation among the symbols rearranged in the arrangement areas; rearranging, on the common display, predetermined ones of the symbols rearranged in the terminal device selected by the side-bet device; and awarding a bonus payout in accordance with the number of the predetermined symbols thus rearranged on the common display. 
     According to the above-described playing method of the gaming machine, it is possible to rearrange, on the common display, predetermined ones of the symbols rearranged in the terminal device selected by the side-bet device, and to award the bonus payout in accordance with the number of the predetermined symbols rearranged on the common display. A player playing on the terminal device which has made a side-bet is given a bonus payout as a result of a side-bet game, which bonus payout is affected by game results of players playing on neighboring terminal devices. Therefore, the player making a side-bet can sometimes enjoy a side-bet game while feeling some togetherness (unity) with players playing on neighboring terminal devices. 
     The present invention provides a gaming machine comprising: a common display which arranges a plurality of symbols in a matrix of arrangement areas; a plurality of terminal devices each having a terminal display which arranges a plurality of symbols in a matrix of arrangement areas and a side-bet device which selects to or not to participate in a game played on the common display, the terminal device rearranging the plurality of symbols in the arrangement areas on the terminal display and running a game to award a base payout in accordance with a relation among the rearranged symbols; and a controller which is programmed to operate in the steps of: (E1) putting the side-bet device into a selectable state; (E2) rearranging the symbols in the arrangement areas in the plurality of terminal devices; (E3) awarding a base payout in accordance with a relation among the symbols rearranged in the arrangement areas; (E4) accumulatively storing a base payout which is awarded when there is a predetermined relation among the symbols rearranged in the arrangement areas in the terminal device selected by the side-bet device; (E5) rearranging, on the common display, predetermined ones of the symbols rearranged in the terminal device selected by the side-bet device; and (E6) in accordance with the number of the predetermined symbols rearranged on the common display, awarding all or a part of the accumulatively-stored base payouts to the terminal device selected by the side-bet device. 
     According to the above-described structure, it is possible that: a base payout which is awarded when there is a predetermined relation among the symbols rearranged in the arrangement areas is accumulatively stored in the terminal device selected by the side-bet device; predetermined ones of the symbols rearranged in the terminal device selected by the side-bet device are rearranged on the common display; and all or a part of the accumulatively-stored base payouts is awarded to the terminal device selected by the side-bet device, in accordance with the number of the predetermined symbols rearranged on the common display. Accordingly, a player playing on the terminal device which has made a side-bet is given a payout as a result of a side-bet game, which payout is affected by game results of players playing on neighboring terminal devices. Therefore, the player making a side-bet can sometimes enjoy a side-bet game while feeling some togetherness (unity) with players playing on neighboring terminal devices. In addition, a player can enjoy the side-bet game without inserting a new game value, because a result of a game played in the terminal device having made a side-bet (a payout resulting from achievement of a predetermined combination) is used for a payout of the side-bet game. 
     In the above-described gaming machine, the controller awards all or a part of the accumulatively-stored base payouts to the terminal device selected by the side-bet device, in accordance with the number of terminal devices selected by the side-bet device. 
     According to the above-described structure, when awarding a part or all of the accumulatively-stored base payouts to the terminal device selected by the side-bet button, a payout corresponding to the number of terminal devices selected by the side-bet button can be awarded. This enables imbalance of the payout due to difference in the number of players participating in the side-bet game to be corrected by, for example, setting a payout rate corresponding to the number of the predetermined symbols to a higher rate when the smaller number of terminal devices participate in a side-bet and setting a payout rate corresponding to the number of the predetermined symbols to a lower rate when the larger number of terminal devices participate in a side-bet. Therefore, the player can enjoy the side-bet game even when there are a small number of participants. 
     The present invention provides a gaming machine comprising: a common display which arranges a plurality of symbols in a matrix of arrangement areas; a plurality of terminal devices each having a terminal display which arranges a plurality of symbols in a matrix of arrangement areas and a side-bet device which selects to or not to participate in a game played on the common display, the terminal device rearranging the plurality of symbols in the arrangement areas on the terminal display and running a game to award a base payout in accordance with a relation among the rearranged symbols; and a controller which is programmed to operate in the steps of: (F1) putting the side-bet device into a selectable state until the symbols are rearranged in the arrangement areas in the plurality of terminal devices; (F2) rearranging the symbols in the arrangement areas in the plurality of terminal devices; (F3) awarding a base payout in accordance with a relation among the symbols rearranged in the arrangement areas; (F4) accumulatively storing a base payout which is awarded when there is a predetermined relation among the symbols rearranged in the arrangement areas in the terminal device selected by the side-bet device; (F5) rearranging, on the common display, predetermined ones of the symbols rearranged in the terminal device selected by the side-bet device; and (F6) in accordance with the number of the predetermined symbols rearranged on the common display, awarding all or a part of the accumulatively-stored base payouts to the terminal device selected by the side-bet device. 
     According to the above-described structure, the side-bet device can be put into a selectable state until the symbols are rearranged in the arrangement areas in the plurality of terminal devices. This allows the player to make a side-bet until rearrangement is completed in a base game on the terminal device. Therefore, the player can make a side-bet while watching how the predetermined symbols used for the side-bet game are rearranged. 
     In the above-described gaming machine, the controller awards all or a part of the accumulatively-stored base payouts to the terminal device selected by the side-bet device, in accordance with the number of terminal devices selected by the side-bet device. 
     According to the above-described structure, when awarding a part or all of the accumulatively-stored base payouts to the terminal device selected by the side-bet button, a payout corresponding to the number of terminal devices selected by the side-bet button can be awarded. This enables imbalance of the payout due to difference in the number of players participating in the side-bet game to be corrected by, for example, setting a payout rate corresponding to the number of the predetermined symbols to a higher rate when the smaller number of terminal devices participate in a side-bet and setting a payout rate corresponding to the number of the predetermined symbols to a lower rate when the larger number of terminal devices participate in a side-bet. Therefore, the player can enjoy the side-bet game even when there are a small number of participants. 
     The present invention provides a gaming machine comprising: a common display which arranges a plurality of symbols in a matrix of arrangement areas; a plurality of terminal devices each having a terminal display which arranges a plurality of symbols in a matrix of arrangement areas and a side-bet device which selects to or not to participate in a game played on the common display, the terminal device rearranging the plurality of symbols in the arrangement areas on the terminal display and running a game to award a payout in accordance with a relation among the rearranged symbols; and a controller which is programmed to operate in the steps of: (G1) putting the side-bet device into a selectable state; (G2) rearranging the symbols in the arrangement areas in the plurality of terminal devices; (G3) awarding a base payout in accordance with a relation among the symbols rearranged in the arrangement areas; (G4) accumulatively storing a base payout which is awarded when there is a predetermined relation among the symbols rearranged in the arrangement areas in the terminal device selected by the side-bet device; (G5) rearranging, on the common display, predetermined ones of the symbols rearranged in the terminal device selected by the side-bet device; (G6) rearranging the predetermined symbols thus rearranged, in the arrangement areas on the common display; and (G7) in accordance with the number of the predetermined symbols rearranged on the common display, awarding all or a part of the accumulatively-stored base payouts to the terminal device selected by the side-bet device. 
     According to the above-described structure, it is possible that: in the terminal device selected by the side-bet device, a base payout which is awarded when there is a predetermined relation among the symbols rearranged in the arrangement areas is accumulatively stored; predetermined ones of the symbols rearranged in the terminal device selected by the side-bet device are rearranged on the common display; the predetermined symbols thus rearranged are rearranged in the arrangement areas on the common display; and all or a part of the accumulatively-stored base payouts is awarded to the terminal device selected by the side-bet device, in accordance with the number of the predetermined symbols rearranged on the common display. This may enable a player to enjoy the side-bet game using rearrangement on the common display. In addition, a player playing on the terminal device which has made a side-bet is given a payout as a result of a side-bet game, which payout is affected by game results of players playing on neighboring terminal devices. Therefore, the player making a side-bet can sometimes enjoy a side-bet game while feeling some togetherness (unity) with players playing on neighboring terminal devices. Moreover, a player can enjoy the side-bet game without inserting a new game value, because a result of a game played in the terminal device having made a side-bet (a payout resulting from achievement of a predetermined combination) is used for a payout of the side-bet game. 
     In the above-described gaming machine, the controller awards all or a part of the accumulatively-stored base payouts to the terminal device selected by the side-bet device, in accordance with the number of terminal devices selected by the side-bet device. 
     According to the above-described structure, when awarding a part or all of the accumulatively-stored base payouts to the terminal device selected by the side-bet button, a payout corresponding to the number of terminal devices selected by the side-bet button can be awarded. This enables imbalance of the payout due to difference in the number of players participating in the side-bet game to be corrected by, for example, setting a payout rate corresponding to the number of the predetermined symbols to a higher rate when the smaller number of terminal devices participate in a side-bet and setting a payout rate corresponding to the number of the predetermined symbols to a lower rate when the larger number of terminal devices participate in a side-bet. Therefore, the player can enjoy the side-bet game even when there are a small number of participants. 
     The present invention provides a gaming machine comprising: a common display which arranges a plurality of symbols in a matrix of arrangement areas; a plurality of terminal devices each having a terminal display which arranges a plurality of symbols in a matrix of arrangement areas and a side-bet device which selects to or not to participate in a game played on the common display, the terminal device rearranging the plurality of symbols in the arrangement areas on the terminal display and running a game to award a payout in accordance with a relation among the rearranged symbols; and a controller which is programmed to operate in the steps of: (H1) putting the side-bet device into a selectable state until the symbols are rearranged in the arrangement areas in the plurality of terminal devices; (H2) rearranging the symbols in the arrangement areas in the plurality of terminal devices; (H3) awarding a base payout in accordance with a relation among the symbols rearranged in the arrangement areas; (H4) accumulatively storing a base payout which is awarded when there is a predetermined relation among the symbols rearranged in the arrangement areas in the terminal device selected by the side-bet device; (H5) rearranging, on the common display, predetermined ones of the symbols rearranged in the terminal device selected by the side-bet device; (H6) rearranging the predetermined symbols thus rearranged, in the arrangement areas on the common display; and (H7) in accordance with the number of the predetermined symbols rearranged on the common display, awarding all or a part of the accumulatively-stored base payouts to the terminal device selected by the side-bet device. 
     According to the above-described structure, the side-bet device can be put into a selectable state until the symbols are rearranged in the arrangement areas in the plurality of terminal devices. This allows the player to make a side-bet until rearrangement is completed in a base game on the terminal device. Therefore, the player can make a side-bet while watching how the predetermined symbols used for the side-bet game are rearranged. 
     In the above-described gaming machine, the controller awards all or a part of the accumulatively-stored base payouts to the terminal device selected by the side-bet device, in accordance with the number of terminal devices selected by the side-bet device. 
     According to the above-described structure, when awarding a part or all of the accumulatively-stored base payouts to the terminal device selected by the side-bet button, a payout corresponding to the number of terminal devices selected by the side-bet button can be awarded. This enables imbalance of the payout due to difference in the number of players participating in the side-bet game to be corrected by, for example, setting a payout rate corresponding to the number of the predetermined symbols to a higher rate when the smaller number of terminal devices participate in a side-bet and setting a payout rate corresponding to the number of the predetermined symbols to a lower rate when the larger number of terminal devices participate in a side-bet. Therefore, the player can enjoy the side-bet game even when there are a small number of participants. 
     The present invention provides a playing method of a gaming machine comprising: a common display which arranges a plurality of symbols in a matrix of arrangement areas; and a plurality of terminal devices each having a terminal display which arranges a plurality of symbols in a matrix of arrangement areas and a side-bet device which selects to or not to participate in a game played on the common display, the terminal device rearranging the plurality of symbols in the arrangement areas on the terminal display and running a game to award a base payout in accordance with a relation among the rearranged symbols. The method includes the steps of: putting the side-bet device into a selectable state; rearranging the symbols in the arrangement areas in the plurality of terminal devices; awarding a base payout in accordance with a relation among the symbols rearranged in the arrangement areas; accumulatively storing a base payout which is awarded when there is a predetermined relation among the symbols rearranged in the arrangement areas in the terminal device selected by the side-bet device; rearranging, on the common display, predetermined ones of the symbols rearranged in the terminal device selected by the side-bet device; and in accordance with the number of the predetermined symbols rearranged on the common display, awarding all or a part of the accumulatively-stored base payouts to the terminal device selected by the side-bet device. 
     According to the above-described playing method, it is possible that: a base payout which is awarded when there is a predetermined relation among the symbols rearranged in the arrangement areas is accumulatively stored in the terminal device selected by the side-bet device; predetermined ones of the symbols rearranged in the terminal device selected by the side-bet device are rearranged on the common display; and all or a part of the accumulatively-stored base payouts is awarded to the terminal device selected by the side-bet device, in accordance with the number of the predetermined symbols rearranged on the common display. Accordingly, a player playing on the terminal device which has made a side-bet is given a payout as a result of a side-bet game, which payout is affected by game results of players playing on neighboring terminal devices. Therefore, the player making a side-bet can sometimes enjoy a side-bet game while feeling some togetherness (unity) with players playing on neighboring terminal devices. Moreover, a player can enjoy the side-bet game without inserting a new game value, because a result of a game played in the terminal device having made a side-bet (a payout resulting from achievement of a predetermined combination) is used for a payout of the side-bet game. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  illustrates a gaming machine and a playing method thereof, according to the present invention. 
         FIG. 2  is a block diagram of the gaming machine. 
         FIG. 3  is an explanatory diagram illustrating a display state of a terminal display during a base game. 
         FIG. 4  is an explanatory diagram illustrating a display state of a shared display. 
         FIG. 5  is an explanatory diagram illustrating a display state of a shared display. 
         FIG. 6  is an explanatory diagram illustrating contribution rates of combination symbol arrangements  190  and distributions of a payout based on the rates. 
         FIG. 7  is an explanatory diagram illustrating an alternative form of a combination symbol arrangement  190 . 
         FIG. 8  is an explanatory diagram illustrating a pattern of combining two or more combination symbol arrangements  190 . 
         FIG. 9  is a perspective view illustrating an external appearance of the gaming machine. 
         FIG. 10  is a perspective view illustrating an external appearance of the gaming terminal. 
         FIG. 11  is an explanatory diagram illustrating a symbol column of symbols rearranged on the terminal display. 
         FIG. 12  is a block diagram illustrating an electrical structure of the gaming terminal. 
         FIG. 13  is a block diagram illustrating an electrical structure of a center controller. 
         FIG. 14  is a flowchart illustrating a boot process executed by a gaming terminal and the center controller. 
         FIG. 15  is a flowchart illustrating an initial process executed by the gaming terminal and the center controller. 
         FIG. 16  is a flowchart illustrating a terminal process routine executed in the gaming terminal. 
         FIG. 17  is a flowchart illustrating a center process routine executed in the center controller. 
         FIG. 18  is a flowchart illustrating a progressive award process routine executed in the center controller. 
         FIG. 19  illustrates a gaming machine and a playing method thereof, according to the present invention. 
         FIG. 20  is a block diagram of the gaming machine. 
         FIG. 21  is an explanatory diagram illustrating a display state and a transfer state of a shared display. 
         FIG. 22  is an explanatory diagram illustrating contribution rates of combination symbol arrangements  190 . 
         FIG. 23  is a perspective view illustrating a transfer state of a shared display. 
         FIG. 24  is a block diagram illustrating an electrical structure of a center controller. 
         FIG. 25  is a flowchart illustrating a progressive award process routine executed in the center controller. 
         FIG. 26  is an explanatory diagram illustrating a gaming machine and a playing method thereof, according to the present invention. 
         FIG. 27  is a block diagram of the gaming machine. 
         FIG. 28  is an explanatory diagram illustrating a display state of a terminal display during a base game. 
         FIG. 29  is an explanatory diagram illustrating a display state of a shared display while the symbol matrix is scrolled. 
         FIG. 30  is an explanatory diagram related to formation of the symbol matrix. 
         FIG. 31  is an explanatory diagram related to formation of the symbol matrix. 
         FIG. 32  is an explanatory diagram illustrating an alternative form of a combination symbol arrangement  190 . 
         FIG. 33  is an explanatory diagram related to scrolling of the symbol matrix. 
         FIG. 34  is an explanatory diagram related to scrolling of the symbol matrix. 
         FIG. 35  is a flowchart illustrating a terminal process routine executed in the gaming terminal. 
         FIG. 36  is a flowchart illustrating a center process routine executed in the center controller. 
         FIG. 37  is an explanatory diagram illustrating a gaming machine and a playing method thereof, according to the present invention. 
         FIG. 38  is a block diagram of the gaming machine. 
         FIG. 39  is an explanatory diagram illustrating a display state of a terminal display during a base game. 
         FIG. 40  is an explanatory diagram illustrating a display state of a shared display. 
         FIG. 41  is an explanatory drawing illustrating patterns of combining combination symbol arrangements  190 , based on whether or not a side bet is received. 
         FIG. 42  is an explanatory drawing illustrating patterns of combining combination symbol arrangements  190 , based on whether or not a side bet is received. 
         FIG. 43A  is an explanatory diagram illustrating how the illumination device lights depending on whether a side bet is received or not. 
         FIG. 43B  is an explanatory diagram illustrating how the illumination device lights depending on whether a side bet is received or not, and/or whether a symbol arrangement is accepted or not. 
         FIG. 44  is a perspective view illustrating an external appearance of the gaming terminal. 
         FIG. 45  is a block diagram illustrating an electrical structure of the gaming terminal. 
         FIG. 46  is a flowchart illustrating a terminal process routine executed in the gaming terminal. 
         FIG. 47  is a flowchart illustrating a side bet process routine executed in the gaming terminal. 
         FIG. 48  is a flowchart illustrating a center process routine executed in the center controller. 
         FIG. 49  is an explanatory view showing a playing method of a gaming machine; 
         FIG. 50  is a block diagram of the gaming machine; 
         FIG. 51  is a perspective view showing external appearance of a slot machine; 
         FIG. 52  is a perspective view showing an external appearance of a terminal device; 
         FIG. 53  is an explanatory view showing display screens during a base game; 
         FIG. 54  is an explanatory view showing display screens during a side-bet game; 
         FIG. 55  shows symbol columns and code numbers of respective symbols; 
         FIG. 56  is a block diagram showing an electrical structure of the terminal device; 
         FIG. 57  is a block diagram showing an electrical structure of a central control board; 
         FIG. 58  is an explanatory view showing a base game winning combination lottery table; 
         FIG. 59  is an explanatory view showing a base game payout table; 
         FIG. 60  is an explanatory view showing a COMMON SYMBOL number lottery table; 
         FIG. 61  is an explanatory view showing a side-bet game payout table; 
         FIG. 62  is a flowchart of a boot process which is executed in the slot machine; 
         FIG. 63  is a flowchart of an initial process which is executed in the slot machine; 
         FIG. 64  is a flowchart of a game running process which is executed in the terminal device; 
         FIG. 65  is a flowchart of a side-bet process which is executed in the terminal device; and 
         FIG. 66  is a flowchart of a side-bet game running process which is executed in the central control board. 
         FIG. 67  is an explanatory view showing a playing method of a gaming machine; 
         FIG. 68  is a block diagram of the gaming machine; 
         FIG. 69  is an explanatory view showing display screens during a base game; 
         FIG. 70  is an explanatory view showing display screens during a side-bet game; 
         FIG. 71  is an explanatory view showing a base game winning combination lottery table; 
         FIG. 72  is an explanatory view showing a base game payout table; 
         FIG. 73  is an explanatory view showing a COMMON SYMBOL number lottery table; 
         FIG. 74  is a flowchart of a game running process which is executed in the terminal device; and 
         FIG. 75  is a flowchart of a side-bet game running process which is executed in the central control board. 
     
    
    
     DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
     First Embodiment 
     The following describes a first embodiment of a gaming machine and a playing method thereof according to the present invention. Note that reference numbers and symbols given to members and steps of flowcharts are only applicable to those described within the present embodiment, and do not represent the members or the steps of the other embodiments. 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 1 , a gaming machine  1  includes a plurality of gaming terminals  3  and a shared display  102 , and executes a playing method including the steps of: arranging symbols  180  in arrangement areas  150  of each of the gaming terminals  3  based on running of a game; awarding a payout according to a relation among the symbols  180  rearranged in the arrangement areas  150 ; combining an arrangement  190  of one gaming terminal  3  with another arrangement  190  of another gaming terminal  3 , and rearranging on the shared display  102  symbols  180  identical to those in the one arrangement  190  and the other arrangement  190 , wherein the one arrangement  190  includes the symbols  180  arranged in arrangement areas  150  of the one gaming terminal  3 , and the other arrangement  190  includes the symbols  180  arranged in arrangement areas  150  of the other gaming terminal  3 ; determining whether to award a payout according to a relation among the symbols  180  rearranged on the shared display  102 ; when the payout is determined to be awarded, determining a distribution of the payout for each of the gaming terminals  3 , based on contribution rates of the combined symbol arrangements  190  of the symbols  180 , wherein each of the contribution rates is a rate at which one arrangement  190  contributes to a determination of awarding the payout (such a rate is hereinafter simply referred to as contribution rate) ; when the payout is determined to be awarded, determining a distribution of the payout for each of the gaming terminals  3 , based on at least two different amounts of distribution; and causing the payout awarding device  125  of each of the gaming terminals  3  to award a payout based on the determined distribution. 
     The “arranging” in this specification means a state where the symbols  180  can be visually observed by a player. That is, the wording means a state where the symbols  180  are displayed in the arrangement areas  150 , in  FIG. 1 . Arranging the symbols  180  again after dismissing the symbols  180  is referred to as “rearranging”. 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 1 , the arrangement areas  150  are areas of a terminal display  101  where symbols  180  are arranged. The arrangement areas  150  form display windows  151  to  155  as illustrated in  FIG. 1 . For example, arrangement areas  151 a,  151 b, and  151 c form the display window  151 . Further, the display windows  151  to  155  form a matrix  156 . The matrix  156 , in other words, is formed with the plurality of arrangement areas  150  arranged in a matrix. 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 4 , arrangement areas  250  are areas of the shared display  102  where symbols  180  are arranged. The arrangement areas  150  form display windows  251  to  255  as illustrated in  FIG. 4 . For example, the arrangement areas  255   a,    255   b,  and  255   c  form the display window  255 . Further, the display windows  251  to  255  form a matrix  256 . The matrix  256 , in other words, is formed with the plurality of arrangement areas  250  arranged in a matrix. 
     Further, “scatter symbols” are such symbols which provide advantages to a player when a predetermined number or more of them are displayed in the matrix  156 . For example, the advantages includes: a state where coins corresponding to the scatter symbols are paid out, a state where the number of coins to be paid out is added to a credit, a state where a bonus game is started. 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 2 , the gaming machine  1  which executes the playing method has the shared display  102 , a center controller  100 , and gaming terminals  3 . Each of the gaming terminals  3  includes a terminal display  101 , a terminal controller  110 , and a payout awarding device  125 . 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 3 , the terminal display  101  has the arrangement areas  150 , and symbols  180  are arranged in the arrangement areas  150 . 
     The terminal display  101  may have a mechanical structure adopting a reel device which rotates a reel to arrange the symbols  180 . Alternatively, the terminal display  101  may have an electric structure in which a video reel is displayed as an image and symbols  180  on a video reel are arranged in the form of an image. Further, the terminal display  101  may adopt a combination of the mechanical structure (reel) and the electrical structure (video reel). Examples of the electrical structure include a liquid crystal display device, a CRT (cathode-ray tube), a plasma display device, or the like. Further, the number of arrangement areas  150  is not limited. A specific structure of the terminal display  101  will be detailed later. 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 4 , the shared display  102  has the arrangement areas  250 , and symbols  180  are arranged in the arrangement areas  250 . This shared display  102  displays a progressive jackpot value  200  as illustrated in  FIG. 4 . A specific structure of the terminal display  101  will be detailed later. 
     The payout awarding device  125  is a later-mentioned hopper  66  in this embodiment. The hopper  66  awards a player a payout related to a game by paying out coins. Note that the present embodiment deals with a case where the payout awarding device  125  is a hopper  66  which pays out coins. However, the present invention is not limited to this, as long as the device awards a player a payout related to a game. For example, a magnetic card storing therein a value related to a game is possible. 
     [Terminal Controller  100 ] 
     The terminal controller  110  executes: a first process of rearranging symbols  180  in arrangement areas  150  at a predetermined timing; a second process of awarding a payout according to a relation among the symbols  180  rearranged in the arrangement areas  180 ; a third process of, when a predetermined condition is met, transmitting information of symbols  180  rearranged in the arrangement areas  150  and an arrangement of the rearranged symbols  180  to the center controller  100 ; and a fourth process of causing the payout awarding device  125  to award a payout based on an instruction from the center controller  100 . In other words, the terminal controller  110  has a first processing unit, a second processing unit, a third processing unit, and a fourth processing unit. 
     The terminal controller  110  is connected to the center controller  100  and is in communication with the center controller  100 . 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 2 , the terminal controller  110  is connected to a game starting unit  111 . The game starting unit  111  has a function of outputting a game start signal, in response to an operation by the player. The game start signal output is then input to a later-described game running unit  112 . 
     Further, the terminal controller  110  is connected to a BET unit  109 . The BET unit  109  has functions of receiving a bet entered through an operation by the player, and outputting a BET signal in response to the bet entered. The BET signal output is input to a later-described game running unit  112 . 
     The terminal controller  110  includes: a game running unit  112 , a rearrangement symbol determining unit  113 , a terminal display control unit  114 , and a payout award control unit  124 . The game running unit  112  runs a base game, triggered by a game start signal from the game starting unit  111 . In the base game, symbols  180  are rearranged in the arrangement areas  150  of the terminal display  101 . Further, the terminal controller  110  outputs a progressive signal, triggered by the game start signal. The progressive signal is a signal indicating a game value. 
     The rearrangement symbol determining unit  113  determines, based on the state of game run by the game running unit  112 , a plurality of symbols  180  to be rearranged in the arrangement areas  150  and an arrangement of the symbols  180  (hereinafter, terminal symbol arrangement). The terminal controller  110  then transmits information of the terminal symbol arrangement to the center controller  100 , through a control performed by the game running unit  112 . 
     The terminal display control unit  114  displays the symbols  180  on the terminal display  101  under control of the game running unit  112  and on the basis of a determination of the rearrangement symbol determining unit  113 . A detailed display state will be detailed later. 
     Further, the terminal controller  110  includes a not-shown payout award determining unit. The payout award determining unit determines whether to award a payout, based on a relation among the symbols  180  rearranged in the arrangement areas  150  of the terminal display  101 . The payout award control unit  124  causes the payout awarding device  125  to award a payout, based on a determination of the payout award determining unit and an instruction from the center controller  100 . 
     Meanwhile, each block of the terminal controller  110  may be realized with hardware or with software as needed. 
     [Operation of Terminal Controller  110 ] 
     The following describes an operation of the terminal controller  100  in the above structure. First, the BET unit  109  accepts a BET entered through an operation by a player. Then, in response to the operation, the game starting unit  111  outputs a game start signal to cause the game running unit  112  to start a base game. When the base game is started, the rearrangement symbol determining unit  113  determines symbols  180  to be rearranged in the arrangement areas  150  and an arrangement of the symbols  180  (terminal symbol arrangement). The symbols  180  to be rearranged and the terminal symbol arrangement are determined at every base game. The symbols  180  determined by the rearrangement symbol determining unit  113  undergo an image processing in the terminal display control unit  114 , and are displayed on the terminal display  101 . The terminal display control unit  114  rearranges the symbols  180  in the arrangement areas  150 , according to the arrangement determined. Thus, the terminal controller  110  executes the first process of rearranging symbols  180  in the arrangement areas  150  at a predetermined timing. 
     Further, a not-shown payout determining unit determines whether to award a payout according to a relation among the symbols  180  rearranged in the arrangement areas  150 . When the payout determining unit determines to award a payout, the payout award control unit  124  causes the payout awarding device  125  to award a payout. Thus, the terminal controller  110  executes the second process of awarding a payout according to a relation among the symbols  180  rearranged in the arrangement areas  150 . 
     Further, the terminal controller  110  transmits, to the center controller  100 , symbols  180  determined by the rearrangement symbol determining unit  113  and an arrangement of the symbols  180 , based on a predetermined condition. An example of such a condition is a shared game being run, or the like condition. Thus, the terminal controller  110  executes the third process of, when a predetermined condition is met, transmitting symbols  180  determined and an arrangement of the symbols  180  to the center controller  100 . 
     Further, the payout award control unit  124  causes the payout awarding device  125  to award a progressive payout based on an instruction from the center controller  100 . Thus, the terminal controller  110  executes the fourth process of causing the payout awarding device  125  to award a payout based on an instruction from the center controller  100 . 
     [Center Controller  100 ] 
     The center controller  100  executes: a fifth process of, when the predetermined condition is met, receiving symbols  180  and an arrangement of the symbols  180  from one or more terminal controllers  110 ; a sixth process of combining one symbol arrangement  190  of one gaming terminal  3  with another symbol arrangement  190  of another gaming terminal  3 , and rearranging, on the shared display  102 , symbols  180  identical to those in the one symbol arrangement  190  and the other symbol arrangement  190 , wherein the one symbol arrangement  190  includes the symbols  180  arranged in arrangement areas  150  of the one gaming terminal  3 , and the other symbol arrangement  190  includes the symbols  180  arranged in arrangement areas  150  of the other gaming terminal  3 ; a seventh process of determining whether to award a payout according to a relation among the symbols  180  rearranged on the shared display  102 ; an eighth process of, when the payout is determined to be awarded, determining a distribution of the payout for each of the gaming terminals  3 , based on contribution rates of the combined symbol arrangements  190  of the symbols  180 ; a ninth process of, when the payout is determined to be awarded, determining a distribution of the payout for each of the gaming terminals  3 , based on at least two different amounts of distribution; and a tenth process of instructing the terminal controller  110  of each of the gaming terminals  3  to award a payout based on the determined distribution. In other words, the terminal controller  100  includes a fifth process unit, a sixth process unit, a seventh process unit, an eighth process unit, a ninth process unit, and a tenth process unit. 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 2 , the center controller  100  is connected to the terminal controller  110  and is in communication with the terminal controller  110 . 
     The center controller  100  includes: a progressive storage unit  115 , a shared game starting unit  116 , a shared game running unit  117 , a rearrangement symbol determining unit  118 , combination symbol determining unit  119 , a shared display control unit  120 , a payout determining unit  121 , and a payout distribution determining unit  123 . 
     The progressive storage unit  115  stores and sums up a game value indicated by a progressive signal received from the terminal controller  110 . The shared game starting unit  116  outputs a shared game start signal, when the predetermined condition is met. The shared game start signal output is input to a later-mentioned shared game running unit  117 . For example, meeting the predetermined situation means a situation where a game value stored in the progressive storage unit  115  sums up to a predetermined value or greater. 
     The shared game running unit  117  runs a shared game, triggered by the shared game start signal received from the shared game starting unit  116 . In the shared game, symbols  180  are rearranged in the arrangement areas  250  of the shared display  102 . 
     The combination symbol determining unit  119  receives information of a terminal symbol arrangement from each of two or more terminal controllers  110 . Based on the information of the terminal symbol arrangement received, the combination symbol determining unit  119  selects symbols  180  and determines an arrangement of the symbols  180  (hereinafter, combination symbol arrangement  190 ). In other words, the combination symbol arrangement  190  determines at least two combination symbol arrangements  190 . 
     The rearrangement symbol determining unit  118  determines symbols  180  to be rearranged in arrangement areas  250  and an arrangement of the symbols  180  by combining the at least two combination symbol arrangements  190 . 
     The shared display control unit  120  displays the symbols  180  on the shared display  102  under control of the shared game running unit  117  and on the basis of a determination of the rearrangement symbol determining unit  118 . A detailed display state will be detailed later. 
     Further, when a later-described payout determining unit  121  determines to award a progressive payout, the shared display control unit  120  displays effects  195  and  196  indicating that the progressive payout is awarded on the shared display. 
     The payout determining unit  121  determines whether to award a progressive payout based on a relation among the symbols  180  rearranged in the arrangement areas  250  of the shared display  102 . When the payout determining unit  121  determines to award a progressive payout, the payout distribution determining unit  123  determines a distribution of the progressive payout for each of the gaming terminals  3 , based on a predetermined condition. In other words, the payout distribution determining unit  123  determines how to distribute a progressive payout. The payout distribution determining unit  123  may determine one of the gaming terminals  3 , based on calculated contribution rates of the combination symbol arrangements  190 . Further, the payout distribution determining unit  123  may determine a distribution of a progressive payout for each of the gaming terminals  3  so that at least two different amounts of distribution are provided to the gaming terminals  3 . Further, the payout distribution determining unit  123  outputs an instruction to the terminal controller  110  of a determined gaming terminal  3  so that a progressive payout is awarded. 
     Meanwhile, each block of the center controller  100  may be realized with hardware or with software as needed. 
     [Operation of Center Controller  100 ] 
     The following describes an operation of the center controller  100  in the above structure. First, the game value is stored and summed in the progressive storage unit  115 . A shared game starts when the stored game value sums up to a predetermined value or greater. The combination symbol determining unit  119 , during the shared game, receives information of a terminal symbol arrangement from the terminal controller  110 . Thus, the center controller  100  executes the fifth process of receiving, when a predetermined condition is met, symbols  180  and arrangements thereof (terminal symbol arrangements) from the terminal controllers  110 . 
     The combination symbol determining unit  119  determines at least two combination symbol arrangements  190  based on the terminal symbol arrangement received. Further, the combination symbol determining unit  119  may determine the at least two combination symbol arrangements  190  based on symbols  180  and arrangement thereof in different positions of the arrangement areas  150 . Further, the combination symbol determining unit  119  may determine the at least two combination symbol arrangements  190  on the row or column basis. 
     The rearrangement symbol determining unit  118  determines symbols  180  to be rearranged in the arrangement areas  250  and an arrangement of the symbols  180 , by combining the at least two combination symbol arrangements  190 . 
     The symbols determined by the rearrangement symbol determining unit  118  undergo image processing performed in the shared display control unit  120 , and are displayed on the shared display  102 . According to the arrangement thus determined, the shared display control unit  120  rearranges the symbols  180  in the arrangement areas  250 . Thus, the center controller  100  executes the sixth process of combining one symbol arrangement  190  of one gaming terminal  3  with another symbol arrangement  190  of another gaming terminal  3 , and rearranging, on the shared display  102 , symbols  180  identical to those in the one symbol arrangement  190  and the other symbol arrangement  190 , wherein the one symbol arrangement  190  includes the symbols  180  arranged in arrangement areas  150  of the one gaming terminal  3 , and the other symbol arrangement  190  includes the symbols  180  arranged in arrangement areas  150  of the other gaming terminal  3 . 
     The payout determining unit  121  determines whether to award a progressive payout, according to a relation of the symbols  180  rearranged in the arrangement areas  250 . In other words, the center controller  100  executes the seventh process of determining whether to award a payout according to a relation among the symbols  180  rearranged on the shared display  102 . 
     When the payout determining unit  121  determines to award the progressive payout, the payout distribution determining unit  123  determines how to distribute the progressive payout for each of the gaming terminals  3 . The payout distribution determining unit  123  calculates contribution rates of the combination symbol arrangements  190 . Then, the payout distribution determining unit  123  determines a distribution of the progressive payout for each of the gaming terminals  3 , based on the calculated contribution rates. Thus, the center controller  100  executes the eighth process of determining a distribution of the payout for each of the gaming terminals  3 , based on contribution rates of the combined symbol arrangements  190  of the symbols  180 . 
     The payout distribution determining unit  123  may determine a distribution of a progressive payout for each of the gaming terminals  3  so that at least two different amounts of distribution are provided to the gaming terminals  3 . Thus, the center controller  100  executes the ninth process of, when the payout is determined to be awarded, determining a distribution of the payout for each of the gaming terminals  3 , based on at least two different amounts of distribution. 
     The payout distribution determining unit  123 , when the distribution of the progressive payout for each of the gaming terminals  3  is determined, outputs an instruction to the terminal controller  110  of each of the gaming terminals  3  so that a progressive payout based on the determined distribution is awarded. 
     Thus, the center controller  100  executes the tenth process of instructing the terminal controller  110  of each of the gaming terminals  3  to award a payout based on the determined distribution 
     The above can be rephrased as follows. The center controller  100  causes the terminal controllers  110  to perform the first process so as to execute a eleventh process of rearranging symbols  180  in the arrangement areas  150  based on running of a game in the gaming terminals  3 . 
     As is obvious from the above operation, the gaming machine  1  includes a plurality of gaming terminals  3  and a shared display  102 , and realizes a playing method including the steps of: rearranging symbols  180  in arrangement areas  150  at a predetermined timing; awarding a payout according to a relation among the symbols  180  rearranged in the arrangement areas  150 ; transmitting to the center controller  100 , the symbols  180  rearranged in the arrangement areas  150  and an arrangement of the symbols  180 , when a predetermined condition is met; receiving, from terminal controllers  110 , symbols  180  and arrangements thereof, when a predetermined condition is met; combining an arrangement  190  of one gaming terminal  3  with another arrangement  190  of another gaming terminal  3 , and rearranging on the shared display  102  symbols  180  identical to those in the one arrangement  190  and the other arrangement  190 , wherein the one arrangement  190  includes the symbols  180  arranged in arrangement areas  150  of the one gaming terminal  3 , and the other arrangement  190  includes the symbols  180  arranged in arrangement areas  150  of the other gaming terminal  3 ; determining whether to award a payout according to a relation among the symbols  180  rearranged on the shared display  102 ; when the payout is determined to be awarded, determining a distribution of the payout for each of the gaming terminals  3 , based on contribution rates of the combined symbol arrangements  190  of the symbols  180 ; when the payout is determined to be awarded, determining a distribution of the payout for each of the gaming terminals  3 , based on at least two different amounts of distribution; instructing the terminal controller  110  of each of the gaming terminals  3  to award a payout based on the determined distribution; and causing the payout awarding device  125  to award a payout based on an instruction from the center controller  100 . 
     This can be rephrased as follows. The gaming machine  1  includes a plurality of gaming terminals  3  and a shared display  102 , and realizes a playing method including the steps of: arranging symbols  180  in arrangement areas  150  of each of the gaming terminals  3  based on running of a game; awarding a payout according to a relation among the symbols  180  rearranged in the arrangement areas  150 ; combining, an arrangement  190  of one gaming terminal  3  with another arrangement  190  of another gaming terminal  3 , and rearranging on the shared display  102  symbols  180  identical to those in the one arrangement  190  and the other arrangement  190 , wherein the one arrangement  190  includes the symbols  180  arranged in arrangement areas  150  of the one gaming terminal  3 , and the other arrangement  190  includes the symbols  180  arranged in arrangement areas  150  of the other gaming terminal  3 ; determining whether to award a payout according to a relation among the symbols  180  rearranged on the shared display  102 ; when the payout is determined to be awarded, determining a distribution of the payout for each of the gaming terminals  3 , based on contribution rates of the combined symbol arrangements  190  of the symbols  180 ; when the payout is determined to be awarded, determining a distribution of the payout for each of the gaming terminals  3 , based on at least two different amounts of distribution; and causing the payout awarding device  125  of each of the gaming terminals  3  to award a payout based on the determined distribution. 
     According to the above playing method, symbols are arranged at a predetermined timing in the arrangement areas  150  on a terminal display  101  of a gaming terminal  3 . Then, a payout is awarded according to the symbols  180  rearranged in the arrangement areas  150 . When a predetermined condition is met, symbols  180  identical to those in one symbol arrangement  190  of one gaming terminal  3  are rearranged on the shared display  102  in combination with symbols  180  identical to those in another symbol arrangement  190  of another gaming terminal  3 , wherein the one arrangement  190  includes the symbols  180  arranged in arrangement areas  150  of the one gaming terminal  3 , and the other arrangement  190  includes the symbols  180  arranged in arrangement areas  150  of the other gaming terminal  3 . Then, whether to award a payout is determined according to a relation among the symbols  180  rearranged on the shared display  102 . When the payout is determined to be awarded, a distribution of the payout for each of the gaming terminals  3  is determined based on contribution rates of the combined symbol arrangements  190  of the symbols  180 . When the payout is determined to be awarded, a distribution of the payout for each of the gaming terminals is determined based on at least two different amounts of distribution. The payout awarding device  125  of each of the gaming terminals  3  awards a payout based on the determined distribution. This payout awarded according to the relation among the symbols rearranged on the shared display realizes a new entertainment characteristic which raises player&#39;s expectation for another payout in addition to the one awarded as a result of the game run in the gaming terminal. Additionally, a distribution of the payout is determined based on contribution rates of the combined symbol arrangements  190  of the symbols  180 . This realizes a new entertainment characteristic. Additionally, different amounts of distribution are given to the gaming terminals  3  by determining a distribution of the payout based on at least two different amounts of distribution. Therefore, a new entertainment characteristic is realized. Further, when a payout is determined to be awarded, an effect indicating that the payout is awarded is displayed on the shared display. This realizes a new entertainment characteristic which gives a player more concrete expectation for a payout according to the relation among the symbols rearranged on the shared display. Further, a single game is created with the use of a plurality of gaming terminals by rearranging, on the shared display, the symbols identical to those in the symbol arrangement of the one gaming terminal in combination with the symbols identical to those in the other symbol arrangement of the other gaming terminal, wherein the one symbol arrangement includes the symbols arranged in arrangement areas of the one gaming terminal, and the other symbol arrangement includes the symbols arranged in arrangement areas of the other gaming terminal. This realizes a new entertainment characteristic which gives the feelings of “unity” and “sharing” to participating players. 
     [Display State of Terminal Display  101 ] 
     The following details an exemplary display state of the terminal display  101  during the operations of the gaming machine  1  and the playing method thereof. Note that the following example deals with a case where the terminal display  101  adopts a video reel and arranges symbols on a video reel in the form of an image, as illustrated in  FIG. 3 . 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 3 , a matrix  156  is in the center of the terminal display  101 . The matrix  156  includes a symbol column having symbols  180 , which is scrolled as illustrated in the upper left of  FIG. 3 . The display windows  151  to  155  are respectively divided into upper stages  151   a  to  155   a,  central stages  151   b  to  155   b,  and lower stages  151   c  to  155   c.  The symbols  180  are stopped (arranged) in the stages  151   a  to  155   a,    151   b  to  155   b,  and  151   c  to  155   c,  respectively. For example, in FIG.  3 ,, “DIAMOND” is stopped in  151   a  of the upper stage of the display window  151 , “7” is stopped in  152   b  of the central stage of the display window  152  and “DIAMOND” is stopped in  153   c  of the lower stage of the display window  153 . In short, the matrix  156  is a symbol matrix including five columns/three rows. The matrix  156  however is not limited to the one with the five-columns/three-rows. 
     As is illustrated in the upper left of  FIG. 3 , the terminal display  101  variably displays symbols  180  when a base game is started in the gaming terminal  3 . When this variable-displaying of symbols  180  stops, symbols  180  are rearranged in the arrangement areas  150 , as illustrated in  FIG. 3 . Then, a payout according to a relation among the symbols  180  is awarded. 
     A frame including a part of the symbols  180  thus rearranged is variably displayed. Then, symbols  180  and an arrangement thereof within the frame, at the time of stopping the variable-displaying, are determined as a combination symbol arrangement  190 . Specifically, in the example shown in the middle left of  FIG. 3 , a combination symbol arrangement  190   a  is an arrangement of symbols  180  rearranged in those arrangement areas  151   a  to  155   a  within the frame. Further, in the example shown in the middle right of  FIG. 3 , a combination symbol arrangement  190   b  is an arrangement of symbols  180  rearranged in those arrangement areas  151   b  to  155   b  within the frame. Further, in the example shown in the lower left of FIG.  3 , a combination symbol arrangement  190   c  is an arrangement of symbols  180  rearranged in those arrangement areas  151   c  to  155   c  within the frame. 
     [Display State of Shared Display  102 ] 
     The following details an exemplary display state of the shared display  102  during the operations of the gaming machine  1  and the playing method thereof. Note that the following example deals with a case where the shared display  102  adopts a video reel and arranges symbols on a video reel in the form of an image, as illustrated in  FIG. 4 . 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 4 , a matrix  256  is in the center of the shared display  102 . The matrix  256  includes a symbol column having symbols  180 , which is scrolled as illustrated in the upper view of  FIG. 4 . The display windows  251  to  255  are divided into upper stages  251   a  to  255   a,  central stages  251   b  to  255   b,  and lower stages  251   c  to  255   c.  The symbols  180  are stopped (arranged) in the stages  251   a  to  255   a,    251   b  to  255   b,  and  251   c  to  255   c,  respectively. In short, the matrix  256  is a symbol matrix including five columns/three rows. The matrix  256  however is not limited to the one with the five-columns/three-rows. 
     This shared display  102  displays at its lower part a progressive jackpot value  200  as illustrated in  FIG. 4 . The progressive jackpot value  200  is the sum of game values having been accumulated. In  FIG. 4  for example, the progressive jackpot value  200  is 1,929.00 dollars. 
     As is illustrated in the upper view of  FIG. 4 , the shared display  102  variably displays symbols  180  when a shared game is started. When this variable-displaying of symbols  180  stops, symbols  180  are rearranged in the arrangement areas  250 , as illustrated in  FIG. 4 . Symbols  180  are rearranged in the arrangement areas  250 , by combining the combination symbol arrangements  190  of the terminal displays  101 . Then, whether to award a progressive payout is determined according to a relation among the symbols  180  rearranged. When the progressive payout is determined to be awarded, on the shared display  102  is displayed an effect  195  indicating that the progressive payout is awarded, as is illustrated in the lower view of  FIG. 4 . The effect  195  is a message image of “YOU WON PROGRESSIVE PAYOUT”. 
     Thus, when the payout is determined to be awarded, on the shared display is displayed an effect indicating that the payout is awarded. This realizes a new entertainment characteristic which gives a player more concrete expectation for a payout according to the relation among the symbols rearranged on the shared display 
     When the progressive payout is determined to be awarded, on the shared display  102  is displayed an effect  196  indicating that the progressive payout is awarded, as is illustrated in the upper view of  FIG. 5 . The effect  196  is a message image indicating that a distribution of the progressive payout for each of the gaming terminals  3  is being determined. At the same time, the above-mentioned payout distribution determining unit  123  determines a distribution of the progressive payout for each of the gaming terminals  3 . 
     When the distribution of the progressive payout is determined, on the shared display  102  is displayed an effect  197  indicating that the distribution of the progressive payout for each of the gaming terminals  3  has been determined, as is illustrated in the lower view of  FIG. 5 . At the same time, on the respective terminal displays  101 , are displayed effects  201  ( 201   a,    201   b,  and  201   c ) indicating the distribution of the progressive payout determined for the respective gaming terminals  3 . The effect  201   a  indicates that the distribution of the progressive payout is “MEGA DISTRIBUTION!!” and that the distribution is 1,196.75 dollars. The effect  201   b  indicates that the distribution of the progressive payout is “MAJOR DISTRIBUTION!!” and that the distribution is 532.25 dollars. The effect  201   c  indicates that the distribution of the progressive payout is “MINI DISTRIBUTION!!” and that the distribution is 200.00 dollars. 
     Thus, this payout awarded according to the relation among the symbols rearranged on the shared display realizes a new entertainment characteristic which raises player&#39;s expectation for another payout in addition to the one awarded as a result of the game run in the gaming terminal. 
     The following details contribution rates of combined symbol arrangements  190  in reference to  FIG. 6 . In the example shown in  FIG. 6 , the condition for determining to award a progressive payout is that four or more scatter symbols “7” are arranged in the matrix  256 . As illustrated in  FIG. 6 , when the progressive payout is determined to be awarded, the arrangement areas where scatter symbols “7” are arranged are the arrangement areas  251   b,    252   b,    254   a,  and  255   b.    
     The symbols  180  in the arrangement areas  251   a  to  255   a  are arranged based on a combination symbol arrangement  190  of the gaming terminal with the terminal number  1 . This combination symbol arrangement  190  includes one scatter symbol “7”. Therefore, the contribution level (contribution value) of this combination symbol arrangement  190  is 1. 
     Further, the symbols  180  in the arrangement areas  251   b  to  255   b  are arranged based on a combination symbol arrangement  190  of the gaming terminal with the terminal number  3 . This combination symbol arrangement  190  includes three scatter symbols “7”. Therefore, the contribution level of this combination symbol arrangement  190  is 3. 
     Further, the symbols  180  in the arrangement areas  251   c  to  255   c  are arranged based on a combination symbol arrangement  190  of the gaming terminal with the terminal number  2 . This combination symbol arrangement  190  includes no scatter symbols “7”. Therefore, the contribution level of this combination symbol arrangement  190  is 0. 
     The following describes distributions of a progressive payout based on contribution rates of combination symbol arrangements  190 . Distributions of a progressive payout are determined so that each of the gaming terminals is ensured to be awarded a predetermined payout amount out of the progressive payout. For example, as illustrated in  FIG. 6 , distributions of the progressive payout are determined so that each of the gaming terminals is ensured to be awarded the predetermined payout amount of  200  dollars, as the minimum awarding value, out of the progressive payout of 1,929.00 dollars. 
     Then, each of the gaming terminals is given a distribution of the payout calculated by subtracting the minimum awarding value from the progressive payout of 1,929.00 dollars, based on contribution rates of the combination symbol arrangements  190 . In the example in  FIG. 6 , the contribution value of the terminal numbered  1  is 1 and therefore the payout value due to contribution is calculated to be 333.25 dollars, based on this contribution value. The contribution value of the terminal numbered  2  is 0 and therefore the payout value due to contribution is calculated to be 0 dollar, based on this contribution value. The contribution value of the terminal numbered  3  is 3 and therefore the payout value due to contribution is calculated to be 996.75 dollars, based on this contribution value. 
     The payout value to be distributed for each of the gaming terminals is the total value of the minimum awarding value and the value due to contribution. In the example in  FIG. 6 , the distribution for the terminal numbered  1  is the total value of 532.25 dollars composed of 200 dollars and 332.35 dollars, which correspond to the minimum awarding value and the value due to contribution respectively. The distribution for the terminal numbered  2  is the total value of 200.00 dollars composed of 200 dollars and 0 dollars, which correspond to the minimum awarding value and the value due to contribution respectively. The distribution for the terminal numbered  3  is the total value composed of 200 dollars and 996.75 dollars, which correspond to the minimum awarding value and the value due to contribution respectively. 
     Thus, a distribution of a progressive payout for each of the gaming terminals is determined based on minimum awarding value and a payout due to contribution. Further, as described above, distributions of a progressive payout are preferably determined based on at least two different amounts of distribution. 
     Thus, a distribution of the payout is determined based on contribution rates of the combined symbol arrangements  190  of the symbols  180 . This realizes a new entertainment characteristic. Additionally, different amounts of distribution are given to the gaming terminals  3  by determining distributions of the payout based on at least two different amounts of distribution. Therefore, a new entertainment characteristic is realized. 
     As is the case of combination symbol arrangements  190   a  to  190   c  illustrated in  FIG. 3 , the combination symbol arrangement  190  may be an arrangement of one or more rows. Alternatively, the combination symbol arrangement  190  may be an arrangement of one or more columns, or adjacent or separate groups of arrangement areas, as is the case of combination symbol arrangements  190   d  to  190   g  illustrated in  FIG. 7 . The combination symbol arrangements  190  on the row or column basis allows players to easily understand how rearranged symbols  180  on the terminal displays  101  are combined and rearranged on the shared display  102 . This enhances the feelings of “unity” and “sharing” among participating players. 
     Further, as is the case of the combination symbol arrangements  190   a,    190   b,  and  190   c  illustrated in  FIG. 3 , each combination symbol arrangement  190  is determined based on symbols  180  and an arrangement thereof in the arrangement areas  150  in different positions. However, the combination symbol arrangement  190  may be determined based on symbols  180  and an arrangement thereof in the arrangement areas  150  in the same positions, as is the case of the combination symbol arrangements  190   a  and  190   c  illustrated in  FIG. 8 . Further, determining the combination symbol arrangements  190  based on symbols  180  rearranged in the arrangement areas  150  in different positions and arrangements of the symbols  180  allows players to easily understand how rearranged symbols  180  on the terminal displays  101  are combined and rearranged on the shared display  102 . This enhances the feelings of “unity” and “sharing” among participating players. 
     [Symbol, Combination, or the Like] 
     A terminal display  101  has a matrix  156  including symbol columns each having twenty two symbols  180  as illustrated in  FIG. 11 . To each of the symbols constituting the columns is given one of code numbers  0  to  21 . Each of the symbol columns has a combination of symbols which includes “BELL”, “APPLE”, “7”, “DIAMOND”, “CHERRY”, or “BONUS”. 
     Of the symbols in the symbol columns, the display windows  151  to  155  each displays (arranges) three successive symbols. The symbols arranged in the upper stages  151   a  to  155   a,  the centeral stages  151   b  to  155   b,  and the lower stages  151   c  to  155   c  form a symbol matrix having five columns and three rows. When a BET button and a start button are sequentially pressed in this order to start a game, symbols constituting the symbol matrix start to scroll. This scrolling of the symbols stops (rearrangement) after a predetermined period from the beginning of the scrolling. 
     Further, for each symbol, a predetermined scatter symbol is determined in advance. Scatter symbols are such symbols that a player is put in an advantageous position when a predetermined number or more of them are displayed in the matrix  156 . For example, the advantages includes: a state where coins corresponding to the scatter symbols are paid out, a state where the number of coins to be paid out is added to a credit, a state where a bonus game is started. 
     To be more specific, when three or more symbols of “BONUS” are rearranged in the matrix  156 , a bonus is triggered and a gaming state shifts from a base game to a bonus game. Further, when four or more symbols of “BONUS” are displayed in the matrix  156 , twenty coins (game medium) are paid out for one bet. 
     Here, a bonus game is a gaming state which provides a larger advantage than a base game. In this embodiment, the bonus game is a free game. The free game is a game allowing a player to play a game a predetermined number of times without betting a coin. No particular limitation is put on the bonus game, as long as it is a gaming state advantageous to the player, that is, it is more advantageous than the base game. For example, the bonus game may include a state where more game media are obtainable than in the base game, a state where a game medium is obtainable with higher probability than in the base game, a state where a game medium is less consumed than in the base game, and the like. Specifically, a free game, a second game, a feature game, and the like may be mentioned as examples of the bonus game. 
     [Mechanical Structure of Gaming Machine  1 ] 
     Next, the following describes a specific example of mechanical and electrical structures of the gaming machine  1  thus structured. 
     A gaming machine  1  is placed in a gaming facility such as a casino. This gaming machine  1  runs a unit game which involves a game medium. The game medium is a coin, bill, or a value in the form of electronic information. However, the game medium in the present invention is not particularly limited. For example, a medal, token, electronic money, ticket or the like are also possible. Further, the ticket is not particularly limited and may be a later-described ticket with a barcode or the like ticket. 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 9 , the gaming machine  1  includes: gaming terminals  3  which run a game independently from each other; a center controller  100  connected to the gaming terminals  3 , which is in communication with the gaming terminals  3  and runs a shared game; a shared display  102  which displays thereon an effect image related to the shared game; a rail  271  which supports the shared display  102  and allows the shared display  102  to move to a position immediately above one of the gaming terminals  3 ; and a not-shown drive motor  270  which causes the shared display  102  to move along the rail  271 . 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 10 , the gaming terminal  3  includes: a cabinet  11 , a top box  12  provided above the cabinet  11 , and a main door  13  provided on the front surface of the cabinet  11 . The main door  13  has a lower image display panel  16 . The lower image display panel  16  has a transparent liquid crystal panel for displaying various information. The lower image display panel  16  displays display windows  151  to  155  (matrix  156 ) for arranging therein symbols  180 . Further, the lower image display panel  16  displays as needed various information and effect images related to a game. 
     The present embodiment deals with a case where the lower image display panel  16  electrically displays symbols  180  arranged in five rows/three columns. However, the present invention is not limited to this. 
     The lower image display panel  16  displays a single activated payline L. Note that the number of pay lines L may be two or more. When the number of pay lines L is two or more, the number of pay lines L activated may be determined according to a predetermined condition, such as the number of coins placed as a BET. 
     Note that the lower image display panel  16  may have a credit value indicator and a payout value indicator. The credit value indicator displays a total value (hereinafter also referred to as total credit value) which a gaming terminal  3  can pay out to a player. When symbols stopped along a pay line L form a winning combination, the payout value indicator displays the number of coins to be paid out. 
     Further, scatter symbols may be adopted, and the number of coins to be paid out may be determined, according to the number of scatter symbols displayed on the matrix  156 . Note that the pay line L does not necessarily have to be displayed. 
     Below the lower image display panel  16  provided are a control panel  20 , a coin insertion slot  21 , and a bill validator  22 . The control panel  20  is provided with various buttons  23  to  27 . These buttons  23  to  27  allow a player to input instructions related to a game played by the player. Through the coin insertion slot  21 , a coin is received in the cabinet  11 . 
     The control panel  20  includes: a spin button  23 , a change button  24 , a cashout button  25 , a 1-BET button  26 , and a maximum BET button  27 . The spin button  23  is for inputting an instruction to start symbol scrolling. The change button  24  is used to ask a staff person in the gaming facility for exchange of money. The cash out button  25  is for inputting an instruction to pay out coins corresponding to the total credit-value into the coin tray  18 . 
     The 1-BET button  26  is used for betting one coin out of those corresponding to the total credit value. The maximum BET button  27  is used for betting, out of those corresponding to the total credit value, a maximum number of coins (e.g., fifty coins) which can be bet in one game. 
     The bill validator  22  validates whether bill is genuine or not and receives the genuine bill into the cabinet  11 . Note that the bill validator  22  is capable of reading a barcode attached to a later-mentioned ticket  39  having a barcode (hereinafter simply referred to as ticket  39 ). When the bill validator  22  reads the ticket  39 , it outputs to the main CPU  41  a read signal representing information having read from the barcode. 
     On the lower front surface of the main door  13 , that is, below the control panel  20 , a berry glass  34  is provided. On the belly glass, a character of a gaming terminal  3  or the like is drawn. On the front surface of top box  12  is provided an upper image display panel  33 . The upper image display panel  33  has a liquid crystal panel and displays an effect image, introduction to the game, rules of the game, or the like. 
     Further, the top box  12  has a speaker  29  for performing an audio output. Below the upper image display panel  33  are provided a ticket printer  35 , a card reader  36 , a data displayer  37 , and a keypad  38 . The ticket printer  35  prints, on to a ticket, a barcode having encoded data containing credit-value, date and time, identification number of a gaming terminal  3  or the like, thereby issuing a ticket  39  having a barcode attached thereto. A player can play a game in another gaming terminal  3  with the ticket  39  having the barcode, or exchange the ticket  39  having the barcode with bill or the like at a change booth or the like of the game arcade. 
     The card reader  36  reads/writes data from/into a smart card. The smart card is carried by a player, and stores therein data for identifying the player, data relating to a history of games played by the player, or the like. 
     The data displayer  37  includes a fluorescent display or the like, and displays the data read by the card reader  36  and the data input by the player through the keypad  38 . The keypad  38  is for entering instructions or data relating to issuing of a ticket or the like. 
     [Electrical Structure of Gaming Machine  1 ] 
       FIGS. 12 and 13  are block diagrams each illustrating an electrical structure of the entire gaming machine  1 . 
     [Electrical structure of Gaming Terminal  3 ] 
       FIG. 12  is a block diagram showing an electrical structure of the entire gaming terminal  3 . As illustrated in  FIG. 12 , the cabinet  11  includes a control unit having a terminal controller  110 . The control unit includes a motherboard  40 , a main body PCB (Printed Circuit Board)  60 , a gaming board  50 , a door PCB  80 , various switches, sensors, or the like. 
     The gaming board  50  is provided with a CPU (Central Processing Unit)  51 , a ROM  55 , a boot ROM  52 , a card slot  53 S corresponding to a memory card  53 , and an IC socket  54 S corresponding to a GAL (Generic Array Logic)  54 . The CPU  51 , the ROM  55 , and the boot ROM  52  are connected to one another through an internal bus. 
     The memory card  53  stores therein a game program and a game system program. The game program contains a stop symbol determining program. The stop symbol determining program determines symbols (code number corresponding to the symbol) to be stopped in the arrangement areas  150 . This stop symbol determining program contains sets of symbol weighting data respectively corresponding to various payout rates (e.g., 80%, 84%, 88%). Each set of the symbol weighting data indicates, for each of the display windows  151  to  155 , a code number of each symbol and at least one random numerical value allotted to the code number. The numerical value is a value within a predetermined range of 0 to 256 for example. 
     The payout rate is determined based on payout rate setting data output from the GAL  54 . Based on a set of the symbol weighting data corresponding to the payout rate determined, a symbol to be stopped is determined. 
     The memory card  53  stores therein various types of data for use in the game programs and the game system programs. For example, the memory card  53  stores a table listing combinations of a symbol  180  to be displayed on the display windows  151  to  155  of  FIG. 1  and an associated range of random numerical values. This data is transferred to the RAM  43  of the motherboard  40 , at the time of running a game programs. 
     The card slot  53 S is structured so as to allow the memory card  53  to be attached/detached to/from the card slot  53 S. This card slot  53 S is connected to the motherboard  40  through an IDE bus. Thus, the type and content of a game run by a gaming terminal  3  can be modified by detaching the memory card  53  from the card slot  53 S, write a different game program and a different game system program into the memory card  53 , and inserting the memory card  53  back into the card slot  53 S. 
     Each of the game programs includes a program related to the progress of the game and/or a program for causing a transition to a bonus game. Each of the game programs includes image data and audio data output during the game. 
     The GAL  54  has input and output ports. When the GAL  54  receives data via the input port, it outputs data corresponding to the input data from its output port. This data from the output port is the payout rate setting data described above. 
     IC socket  54 S is structured so as to allow the GAL  54  to be attached/detached to/from the IC socket  54 S. The IC socket  54 S is connected to the motherboard  40 , via a PCI bus. Thus, the payout rate setting data to be output from GAL  54  can be modified by: detaching the GAL  54  from the IC socket  54 S, overwriting the program stored in the GAL  54 , and attaching the GAL  54  back to the IC socket  54 S. 
     The CPU  51 , the ROM  55  and the boot ROM  52  connected through an internal bus are connected to the motherboard  40  through the PCI bus. The PCI bus communicates signals between the motherboard  40  and the gaming board  50  and supplies power from the motherboard  40  to the gaming board  50 . The ROM  55  stores country identification information and an authentication program. The boot ROM  52  stores a preliminary authentication program and a program (boot code) for enabling the CPU  51  to run the preliminary authentication program. 
     The authentication program is a program (falsification check program) for authenticating the game program and the game system program. The authentication program is a program for confirming and verifying that the game program and the game system program are not falsified. In other words, the authentication program is described in accordance with a procedure for authenticating the game program and the game system program. The preliminary authentication program is a program for authenticating the authentication program. The preliminary authentication program is described in accordance with a procedure for verifying that the authentication program to be authenticated is not falsified. In short, the preliminary authentication program authenticates the authentication program. 
     The motherboard  40  is provided with a main CPU  41  (terminal controller  110 ), a ROM (Read Only Memory)  42 , a RAM (Random Access Memory)  43 , and a communication interface  44 . 
     The main CPU  41  serves as a terminal controller  110  and has a function of controlling the entire gaming terminal  3 . In particular, the main CPU  41  controls the following operations: an operation of outputting a signal instructing variable-displaying of symbols  180  to the graphic board  68 , which is performed in response to pressing of the spin button  23  after betting of credit; an operation of determining symbols  180  to be stopped after the variable-displaying of symbols  180 ; and an operation of stopping the symbols  180  thus determined in the display window  151  to  155 . 
     In other words, the main CPU  41  serves as an arrangement controller which arranges symbols to form a new symbol matrix through scrolling of symbols displayed on the lower image display panel  16 . This main CPU  41  therefore determines symbols to be arranged in a symbol matrix by selecting symbols to be arranged from various kinds of symbols. Then, the main CPU  41  executes arrangement control to stop scrolling the symbols to present the symbols thus determined. 
     The ROM  42  stores a program such as BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) run by the main CPU  41 , and permanently-used data. When the BIOS is run by the main CPU  41 , each of peripheral devices is initialized and the game program and the game system program stored in the memory card  53  are read out through the gaming board  50 . The RAM  43  stores data or a program used for the main CPU  41  to perform a process. 
     The communication interface  44  is provided to communicate with a host computer and the like equipped in the gaming facility, through the network (communication line). The communication interface  44  is also for communicating with the center controller  100  through a communication line. Further, a main body PCB (Printed Circuit Board)  60  and a door PCB  80  are connected to the motherboard  40 , through USB (Universal Serial Bus). Further, the motherboard  40  is connected to a power unit  45 . The power unit  45  supplies power to the motherboard  40  to boot the main CPU  41  thereof. Meanwhile, the power unit  45  supplies power to the gaming board  50  through the PCI bus to boot the CPU  51  thereof. 
     The main body PCB  60  and door PCB  80  are connected to various devices or units which generate signals to be input to the main CPU  41 , and various devices or units whose operations are controlled by signals from the main CPU  41 . Based on a signal input to the main CPU  41 , the main CPU  41  runs the game program and the game system program stored in the RAM  43 , to perform an arithmetic process. Then, the CPU  41  stores the result of the arithmetic process in the RAM  43 , or transmits a control signal to the various devices and units to control them based on the result. 
     The main body PCB  60  is connected with a lamp  30 , a hopper  66 , a coin sensor  67 , a graphic board  68 , the speaker  29 , a bill validator  22 , a ticket printer  35 , a card reader  36 , a key switch  38 S, and a data displayer  37 . 
     The lamp  30  is turned on/off on the basis of a control signal from the main CPU  41 . 
     The hopper  66  as the payout awarding device  125  is mounted in the cabinet  11  and pays out a predetermined number of coins from a coin outlet  19  to the coin tray  18 , based on a control signal from the main CPU  41 . The coin sensor  67  is provided inside the coin outlet  19 , and outputs a signal to be input to the main CPU  41  upon sensing that a predetermined number of coins have been delivered from the coin outlet  19 . 
     The graphic board  68  controls image displaying of upper image display panel  33  and the lower image display panel  16 , based on a control signal from the main CPU  41 . Further, the graphic board  68  is provided with a VDP (Video Display Processor) for generating image data on the basis of a control signal from the main CPU  41 , a video RAM for temporarily storing the image data generated by the VDP, or the like. Note that image data used at the time of generating the image data by the VDP is in a game program which is read out from the memory card  53  and stored in the RAM  43 . 
     The bill validator  22  reads an image on the bill and takes only those recognized as to be genuine into the cabinet  11 . When taking in a genuine bill, the bill validator  22  outputs an input signal indicating the value of the bill to the main CPU  41 . The main CPU  41  stores into the RAM  43  a credit-value corresponding to the value of the bill indicated by the signal. 
     The ticket printer  35  prints a barcode on to a ticket to issue a ticket  39  having the barcode. The barcode contains encoded data such as credit-value stored in the RAM  43 , date and time, identification number of the gaming terminal  3 , or the like, based on a control signal from the main CPU  41 . 
     The card reader  36  reads out data from the smart card and transmits the data to the main CPU  41 . Further, the card reader  36  writes data into the smart card based on the control signal output from the main CPU  41 . The key switch  38 S is mounted to the keypad  38 , and outputs a signal to the main CPU  41  in response to an operation of the keypad  38  by the player. The data displayer  37  displays, based on a control signal from the main CPU  41 , the data read by the card reader  36  or the data input by the player through the key pad  38 . 
     The door PCB  80  is connected to a control panel  20 , a reverter  21 S, a coin counter  21 C, and a cold cathode tube  81 . The control panel  20  is provided with: a spin switch  23 S associated with the spin button  23 ; a change switch  24 S associated with the change button  24 ; a cashout switch  25 S associated with the cashout button  25 ; a 1-BET switch  26 S associated with the  1 -BET button  26 ; and a maximum BET switch  27 S associated with the maximum BET button  27 . Each of the switches  23 S to  27 S outputs a signal to the main CPU  41 , when a player presses the associated button. 
     The coin counter  21 C is provided within the coin insertion slot  21 , and identifies whether the coin inserted into the coin insertion slot  12  by the player is genuine. A coin except the genuine coin is discharged from the coin outlet  19 . In addition, the coin counter  21 C outputs an input signal to the main CPU  41  upon detection of a genuine coin. 
     The reverter  21 S is operated on the basis of the control signal output from the main CPU  41  and distributes a coin, which is recognized as a genuine coin by the coin counter  21 C, to a not-shown cash box or hopper  66  mounted in the gaming terminal  3 . In other words, when the hopper  66  is full of the coins, the genuine coin is distributed into the cash box by the reverter  21 S. On the other hand, when the hopper  66  is not yet full with the coins, the genuine coin is distributed into the hopper  66 . The cold cathode tube  81  functions as a backlight mounted to rear sides of the lower image display panel  16  and the upper image display panel  33 . This cold cathode tube  81  turns on according to a control signal from the main CPU  41 . 
     [Electrical Structure of Center Controller  100 ] 
       FIG. 13  is a block diagram illustrating an electrical structure of the center controller  100 . The center controller  100  is provided therein with a control unit. As illustrated in  FIG. 11 , the control unit includes a motherboard  240 , a gaming board  260 , an actuator, or the like. 
     The gaming board  260  has the same structure as that of the gaming board  50 . The motherboard  240  has the same structure as that of the motherboard  40 . The communication interface  244  communicates with the terminal controller  110  through a communication line. 
     The graphic board  268  has the same structure as that of the graphic board  68 , except in that the graphic board  268  controls image displaying of the shared display  102  based on a control signal from the main CPU  241 . 
     The drive motor  270  is a stepping motor and is connected to a not-shown drive wheel. The drive motor  270  is driven by a control signal from the main CPU  241 , and rotates the drive wheel to move the shared display  102 . 
     [Operation of Gaming Machine  1 : Boot Process] 
     The following describes a boot process routine which takes place in the gaming machine  1 . Upon powering on the gaming machine  1 , a boot process starts in: the mother board  240  and gaming board  260  in the center controller  100 , and in the mother board  40  and the gaming board  50  in the terminal controller  110 . The memory cards  53  and  263  are assumed to be inserted into the card slots  53 S and  263 S of the gaming boards  50  and  260 , respectively. Further, the GALs  54  and  264  are assumed to be attached to the IC sockets  54 S and  264 S, respectively. 
     First, turning on the power switch of (powering on) the power units  45  and  245  boots the motherboards  40  and  240 , and the gaming boards  50  and  260 . Booting the motherboards  40  and  240  and the gaming boards  50  and  260  starts separate processes in parallel. Specifically, the CPUs  51  and  261  read out preliminary authentication programs stored in the boot ROMs  52  and  262 , respectively. Then, preliminary authentication is performed according to the read out programs so as to confirm and authenticate that no modification is made to authentication programs, before reading them in the motherboards  40  and  240 , respectively (S 1 ). Meanwhile, the main CPUs  41  and  241  of the motherboards  40  and  240  run BIOS stored in the ROMs  42  and  242  to load into the RAMs  43  and  243  compressed data built in the BIOS, respectively (S 2 ). Then, the main CPUs  41  and  241  run a procedure of the BIOS according to the data loaded into the RAMs  43  and  243  so as to diagnose and initialize various peripheral devices (S 3 ). 
     The main CPUs  41  and  241 , which are respectively connected to the ROMs  55  and  265  of the gaming boards  50  and  260  via PCI buses, read out authentication programs stored in the ROMs  55  and  265  and stores them in the RAMs  43  and  243  (S 4 ). During this step, the main CPUs  41  and  241  each derives a checksum through ADDSUM method (a standard check function) which is adopted in a standard BIOS, and store the authentication programs into RAMs  43  and  243  while confirming if the operation of storing is carried out without an error. 
     Next, the main CPUs  41  and  241  each checks what connects to the IDE bus. Then, the main CPUs  41  and  241  access, via the IDE buses, to the memory cards  53  and  263  inserted into the card slots  53 S and  263 S, and read out game programs and game system programs from the memory cards  53  and  263 , respectively. In this case, the CPUs  41  and  241  each reads out four bytes of data constituting the game program and the game system program at one time. Next, the CPUs  41  and  241  authenticate the game program and the game system program read out to confirm and prove that these programs are not modified (S 5 ). 
     When the authentication properly ends, the main CPUs  41  and  241  write and store the authenticated game programs and game system programs in RAMs  43  and  243  (S 6 ). 
     Next, the main CPUs  41  and  241  access, via the PCI buses, to the GALs  54  and  264  attached to the IC socket  54 S• 264 S, and read out payout rate setting data from the GALs  54  and  264 , respectively. The payout rate setting data read out is then written and stored in the RAMs  43  and  243  (S 7 ). 
     Next, the main CPUs  41  and  241  read out, via the PCI buses, country identification information stored in the ROMs  55  and  265  of the gaming boards  50  and  265 , respectively. The country identification information read out is then stored in the RAMs  43  and  243  (S 8 ). 
     After this, the main CPU  41  and  241  each performs an initial process of  FIG. 15 . 
     [operation of Gaming Machine  1 : Initial Process] 
     The following describes an initial process which takes place in the gaming machine  1 . When the boot process of  FIG. 14  is completed, the center controller  100  reads out from the RAM  243  a center side initial setting routine illustrated in  FIG. 15  and executes the routine. Meanwhile, the gaming terminal  3  reads out from the RAM  43  a terminal side initial setting routine illustrated in  FIG. 15  and executes the routine. The center side and terminal side initial setting routines are executed in parallel. 
     First, the main CPU  41  of each of the gaming terminals  3  checks operations of work memories such as the RAM  43 , various sensors, various driving mechanisms, and various decorative illuminations (A1). Then, the main CPU  41  determines if all the check results are normal (A2). 
     If the main CPU  41  determines that the check results contains an error (A2: NO), the main CPU  41  outputs a signal notifying the error (hereinafter, error signal) to the center controller  100  (A3). Further, the main CPU  41  reports the error in the form of illuminating the lamp  30  or the like (A4), and then ends the routine 
     On the other hand in A2, if the main CPU  41  determines that all the check results are normal (A2: YES), an initial setting signal is output to the center controller  100  (A5). Then, an initial setting signal is waited from the center controller  100  (A6, A7: NO). 
     The main CPU  241  of the center controller  100  receives signals from each of the terminals (B1). Then, the main CPU  241  determines whether a signal received is an error signal (B2). If the main CPU  241  determines that the signal is an error signal (B2: YES), the main CPU  241  outputs the error signal to a server of a not-shown host computer or the like (B9) to report the error (B10), and ends the routine. 
     On the other hand in B2, if the main CPU  241  determines that the signal is not an error signal (B2:NO), the main CPU  241  determines whether a predetermined time (check time) has elapsed from the time of powering on (B3). If the main CPU  241  determines that the check time has elapsed (B3: YES), B9 is executed. On the other hand, if the main CPU  241  determines that the check time has not yet elapsed (B3:NO), it is determined whether an initial setting signal is received from each of the gaming terminals  3  (B4). If the main CPU  241  determines that an initial setting signal from any one of the gaming terminals  3  is not received (B4: NO), the process returns to B1. On the other hand, if it is determined that initial setting signals from all the gaming terminals  3  are received (B4: YES), the main CPU  241  checks operations of work memories such as RAM  243  or the like, various sensors, various driving mechanisms, and various decorative illuminations (B5). Then, the main CPU  241  determines whether all the check results are normal (B6). If the main CPU  241  determines the check results contain an error (B6: NO), the main CPU  241  executes B9. 
     On the other hand in B6, if the main CPU  241  determines that all the check results are normal (B6: YES), the main CPU  241  outputs an initial setting signal to all the gaming terminals  3  (B7), and causes the shared display  102  to display a demo-screen (B8). Then, the main CPU  241  ends the routine. 
     In A7, the main CPU  41  of each of the gaming terminals  3  determines that an initial setting signal is received from the center controller  100  (A7: YES), and causes the terminal display  101  to display a demo-screen (A7). The main CPU  41  then ends the routine. 
     [Operation of Gaming Terminal  3 : Terminal Process Routine] 
     After the terminal side initial setting routine of  FIG. 15 , the main CPU  41  of the gaming terminal  3  performs a terminal process routine of  FIG. 16 . Through this terminal process routine, a game is run. 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 14 , in the terminal process routine, it is determined whether a coin is bet (C1). In this step, it is determined whether a signal from the 1-BET switch  26 S entered by pressing of the 1-BET button  26  is received. Meanwhile, it is determined whether a signal from the maximum BET switch  27 S entered by pressing of the maximum BET button  27  is received. If no coin is BET (C1: NO), C1 is repeated until a coin is bet. 
     On the other hand, if a coin is bet (C1: YES), the credit value stored in the RAM  43  is reduced according to the number of coins bet (C2). When the number of coins bet surpasses the number of coins equivalent to the credit value stored in the RAM  43 , C2 is repeated without the reduction of the credit value. When the number of coins bet exceeds the maximum number of coins bettable one game (50 pieces in this embodiment), the process goes to a later-described step C3 without the reduction of the credit value. 
     Then, it is determined whether a spin button  23  is pressed (C3). If the spin button  23  is not pressed (C3: NO), the process returns to C1. Here, if the spin button  23  is not pressed (for example, the spin button  23  is not pressed but a command to end the game is input), the reduction of the credit value in C2 is canceled. 
     On the other hand, when the spin button  23  is pressed (C3: YES), a progressive transmission process is executed (C4). In other words, a progressive signal indicating a part of the game value bet is transmitted to the center controller  100 . 
     Next executed is a symbol determining process (C5). That is, the stop symbol determining program stored in the RAM  43  is run to determine symbols  180  to be arranged in the matrix  156 . Through this, a symbol combination to be formed along the payline L is determined. 
     Then, the scrolling process is executed to scroll symbols  180  on the terminal display  101  (C6). The scrolling process is a process in which the symbols  180  determined in C5 are stopped (rearranged) in the matrix  156  after scrolling of symbols  180  in a direction indicated by an arrow symbol. 
     Next, the CPU  41  determines whether a shared game is running (C7). If a shared game start signal is received from the center controller  100 , the CPU  41  determines that the shared game is running. If the CPU  41  determines that the shared game is running (C7: YES), a terminal symbol arrangement signal is transmitted to the center controller  100  (C12). The terminal symbol arrangement signal indicates symbols  180  rearranged in the arrangement areas  150  and an arrangement of the symbols  180  (terminal symbol arrangement). Next, the main CPU  41  receives a combination symbol arrangement signal from the center controller  100  (C13). The combination symbol arrangement signal indicates a combination symbol arrangement  190  determined by the center controller  100  based on the terminal symbol arrangement signal resulting from C12. Next, the main CPU  41  causes the terminal display  101  to scroll the frame. Then, the main CPU  41  stops scrolling the frame so as to present in the frame the combination symbol arrangement  190  received in C12 (C14). On the other hand in C7, if it is determined that no shared game is running (C7: NO), C8 is executed. 
     Next, it is determined whether symbols  180  rearranged in the matrix  156  form a winning combination (C8). If the symbols  180  forms a winning combination (C8: YES), a payout process is executed (C9). More specifically, when a winning combination is formed, the number of coins according to the combination is calculated. On the other hand in C8, if it is determined that no winning combination is formed (C8: NO), C10 is executed. 
     Next, the main CPU  41  determines whether a progressive award signal is received from the center controller  100  (C10). If the CPU  41  determines that a progressive award signal is received (C10:YES), a payout is awarded according to the progressive award signal (C11). The process then returns to C1. On the other hand in C10, if the CPU  41  determines that no progressive award signal is received (C10: NO), the process returns to C1. 
     [Operation of Center Controller  100 : Center Process Routine] 
     After the center side initial setting routine of  FIG. 15 , the main CPU  241  of the center controller  100  executes a center process routine of  FIG. 17 . The main CPU  241  performs the center process routine to run a shared game. 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 17 , in the center process routine, the main CPU  241  determines whether a progressive signal is received from a gaming terminal  3  (D1). If the main CPU  241  determines that a progressive signal is received (D1:YES), a game value indicated by the progressive signal is stored and summed (D2). The process then returns to D1. 
     On the other hand in D1, if the main CPU  241  determines no progressive signal is received (D1: NO), the main CPU  241  determines if the progressive value equals or surpasses a predetermined value (D3). If the main CPU  241  determines that the progressive value is less than the predetermined value (D3: NO), the process returns to D1. On the other hand, if the main CPU  241  determines that the progressive value equals or surpasses the predetermined value (D3: YES), a shared game start signal is output to each of the gaming terminals  3  (D4). Next, the main CPU  241  causes the shared display  102  to start scrolling symbols  180  (D5). Next, a terminal symbol arrangement signal is received from each of the gaming terminals  3  (D6). Based on the terminal symbol arrangement signal, a combination symbol arrangement  190  is determined. The combination symbol arrangement  190  thus determined is sent back to the gaming terminals  3  (D7). 
     Next, the main CPU  241  combines at least two combination symbol arrangements  190  determined in D7, and tries to determine symbols  180  and an arrangement of the symbols  180  to be arranged in the arrangement areas  250  of the shared display  102  (D8). If an arrangement is not determined (D8: NO), the process returns to D6. On the other hand, if an arrangement is determined (D8: YES), the scrolling of the symbols  180  on the shared display  102  is stopped to present the arrangement determined (D9). 
     Then, the main CPU  241  determines whether the symbols  180  arranged on the shared display  102  forms a winning combination (D10). If the main CPU  241  determines that no winning combination is formed (D10: NO), the process returns to D1. On the other hand, if the main CPU  241  determines that a winning combination is formed (D10:YES), a later-mentioned progressive award process routine is called to be executed (D11). When the progressive award process ends, a progressive value consumed is subtracted from the value stored in RAM  243  (D12), and the process returns to D1. 
     [Operation of Center Controller  100 : Progressive Award Process Routine] 
     The following describes a progressive award process routine which is called during execution of the center side initial setting routine. 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 18 , when the progressive award process routine is started, the main CPU  241  displays an effect  195  indicating that a progressive payout is awarded on the shared display  102  (E1). Then, the main CPU  241  displays an effect  196  indicating that a distribution of the progressive payout for each of the gaming terminals is being determined (E2). Then, the main CPU  241  specifies a combination symbol arrangement  190  of each of the gaming terminals  3  (E3). 
     Then, the main CPU  241  calculates respective contribution levels of the specified combination symbol arrangements  190 , wherein each of the contribution level (contribution value) is a level at which one arrangement  190  contributes to the determination of awarding the progressive payout (E4). Then, the main CPU  241  determines a distribution of the progressive payout for each of the gaming terminals  3 , based on the calculated contribution value (E5). Then, the main CPU  241  displays an effect  197  indicating that the distribution of the progressive payout for each of the gaming terminals  3  has been determined (E6). Then, the main CPU  241  outputs an instruction signal to each of the gaming terminals  3  for awarding a progressive payout based on the determined distribution (E7). 
     As is already mentioned, a payout awarded according to a relation among the symbols  180  rearranged on the shared display  102  realizes a new entertainment characteristic which raises player&#39;s expectation for another payout in addition to the one awarded as a result of the game run in the gaming terminal  3 . 
     Thus, distributions of the payout are determined based on contribution rates of the combined symbol arrangements  190  of the symbols  180 . This realizes a new entertainment characteristic. 
     Additionally, different amounts of distribution are given to the gaming terminals  3  by determining distributions of the payout based on at least two different amounts of distribution. Therefore, a new entertainment characteristic is realized. 
     Further, when a payout is determined to be awarded, the effect  195  indicating that the payout is awarded is displayed on the shared display  102 . This realizes a new entertainment characteristic which gives a player more concrete expectation for a payout according to the relation among the symbols  180  rearranged on the shared display  102 . 
     Further, as is already mentioned, a single game involving a plurality of gaming terminals is created by rearranging, on the shared display  102 , symbols  180  identical to those in one symbol arrangement  190  of one gaming terminal  3  in combination with symbols  180  identical to those in another symbol arrangement  190  of another gaming terminal  3 , wherein the one arrangement  190  includes the symbols  180  arranged in arrangement areas  150  of the one gaming terminal  3 , and the other arrangement  190  includes the symbols  180  arranged in arrangement areas  150  of the other gaming terminal  3 . This realizes a new entertainment characteristic which gives the feelings of “unity” and “sharing” to participating players. 
     Further, as is already mentioned, the symbols  180  identical to those in the one symbol arrangement  190  and the symbols  180  identical to those in the other symbol arrangement  190  are combined and rearranged, on the row or column basis, on the shared display  102 . A player therefore is able to easily understand how rearranged symbols on the terminal displays  101  are combined and rearranged on the shared display  102 . This characteristic enhances the feelings of “unity” and “sharing” among the players. 
     Further, on the shared display  102  are rearranged the symbols  180  identical to those in the one symbol arrangement  190  and the symbols  180  identical to those in the other symbol arrangement  190 , the symbols  180  of the other symbol arrangement  190  being in different positions from those of the one symbol arrangement  190 . A player therefore is able to easily understand how rearranged symbols on another terminal display  101  are combined and rearranged on the shared display  102 . This characteristic enhances the feelings of “unity” and “sharing” among the players. 
     Note that the present embodiment deals with a case where the center controller  100  determines a combination symbol arrangement based on a terminal symbol arrangement. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, it may be the terminal controller  110  which determines a combination symbol arrangement based on a terminal symbol arrangement. 
     Note further that the number of gaming terminals  3  is three in the present embodiment. However, the present invention is not limited to this, provided that at least two gaming terminals  3  are provided. 
     The detailed description of the present invention provided hereinabove mainly focused on characteristics thereof for the purpose of easier understanding; however, the scope of the present invention shall be construed as broadly as possible, encompassing various forms of other possible embodiments, and therefore the present invention shall not be limited to the above description. Further, the terms and phraseology used in the present specification are adopted solely to provide specific illustration of the present invention, and in no case should the scope of the present invention be limited by such terms and phraseology. Further, it will be obvious for those skilled in the art that the other structures, systems, methods or the like are possible, within the spirit of the invention described in the present specification. The description of claims therefore shall encompass structures equivalent to the present invention, unless otherwise such structures are regarded as to depart from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Further, the abstract is provided to allow, through a simple investigation, quick analysis of the technical features and essences of the present invention by an intellectual property office, a general public institution, or one skilled in the art who is not fully familiarized with patent and legal or professional terminology. It is therefore not an intention of the abstract to limit the scope of the present invention which shall be construed on the basis of the description of the claims. To fully understand the object and effects of the present invention, it is strongly encouraged to sufficiently refer to disclosures of documents already made available. 
     The detailed description of the present invention provided hereinabove includes a process executed on a computer or computer network. The above descriptions and expressions are provided to allow the one skilled in the art to most efficiently understand the present invention. A process performed in or by respective steps yielding one result or blocks with a predetermined processing function described in the present specification shall be understood as a process with no self-contradiction. Further, the electrical or magnetic signal is transmitted/received and written in the respective steps or blocks. It should be noted that such a signal is expressed in the form of bit, value, symbol, text, terms, number, or the like solely for the sake of convenience. Although the present specification occasionally personifies the processes performed in the steps or blocks, these processes are essentially executed by various devices. Further, the other structures necessary for the steps or blocks are obvious from the above descriptions. 
     Second Embodiment 
     The following describes a second embodiment of a gaming machine and a playing method thereof according to the present invention. Note that reference numbers and symbols given to members and steps of flowcharts are only applicable to those described within the present embodiment, and do not represent the members or the steps of the other embodiments. 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 19 , a gaming machine  1  includes a plurality of gaming terminals  3  and a shared display  102 , and executes a playing method including the steps of: arranging symbols  180  in arrangement areas  150  of each of the gaming terminals  3  based on running of a game; awarding a payout according to a relation among the symbols  180  rearranged in the arrangement areas  150 ; combining an arrangement  190  of one gaming terminal  3  with another arrangement  190  of another gaming terminal  3 , and rearranging on the shared display  102  symbols  180  identical to those in the one arrangement  190  and the other arrangement  190 , wherein the one arrangement  190  includes the symbols  180  arranged in arrangement areas  150  of the one gaming terminal  3 , and the other arrangement  190  includes the symbols  180  arranged in arrangement areas  150  of the other gaming terminal  3 ; determining whether to award a payout according to a relation among the symbols  180  rearranged on the shared display  102 ; when the payout is determined to be awarded, causing the conveying device  127  to transfer the shared display  102  between positions corresponding to the respective gaming terminals  3 ; when the payout is determined to be awarded, determine one of the gaming terminals  3 , based on contribution rates of the combination symbol arrangements  190  of the symbols  180 , wherein each of the contribution rates is a rate at which one arrangement  190  contributes to a determination of awarding the payout (such a rate is hereinafter simply referred to as contribution rate); causing the conveying device  127  to transfer the shared display  102  to the position corresponding to the determined one gaming terminal  3 ; after detecting that the shared display  102  has arrived at the position corresponding to the determined one gaming terminal  3 , displaying an effect  197  indicating the determined one gaming terminal  3  on the shared display  102 ; and causing the payout awarding device  125  of the determined one gaming terminal  3  to award the payout. 
     The “arranging” in this specification means a state where the symbols  180  can be visually observed by a player. That is, the wording means a state where the symbols  180  are displayed in the arrangement areas  150 , in  FIG. 19 . Arranging the symbols  180  again after dismissing the symbols  180  is referred to as “rearranging”. 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 19 , the arrangement areas  150  are areas of a terminal display  101  where symbols  180  are arranged. The arrangement areas  150  form display windows  151  to  155  as illustrated in  FIG. 19 . For example, arrangement areas  151   a,    151   b,  and  151   c  form the display window  151 . Further, the display windows  151  to  155  form a matrix  156 . The matrix  156 , in other words, is formed with the plurality of arrangement areas  150  arranged in a matrix. 
     Further, “scatter symbols” are such symbols which provide advantages to a player when a predetermined number or more of them are displayed in the matrix  156 . For example, the advantages includes: a state where coins corresponding to the scatter symbols are paid out, a state where the number of coins to be paid out is added to a credit, a state where a bonus game is started. 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 20 , the gaming machine  1  which executes the playing method has the shared display  102 , a center controller  100 , and gaming terminals  3 . Each of the gaming terminals  3  includes a terminal display  101 , a terminal controller  110 , a payout awarding device  125 , a conveying device  127 , and a position sensor  128 . 
     The conveying device  127  has a later-mentioned drive motor  270  and a later-mentioned rail  271 . The conveying device  127  supports the shared display  102  and transfers the shared display  102  to positions corresponding to the respective gaming terminals  3 . A specific structure of the conveying device  127  will be detailed later. 
     The position sensor  128  detects that the shared display  102  has arrived at a position corresponding to a gaming terminal  3 . A specific structure of the position sensor  128  will be detailed later. 
     [Terminal Controller  100 ] 
     The terminal controller  110  executes: a first process of rearranging symbols  180  in arrangement areas  150  at a predetermined timing; a second process of awarding a payout according to a relation among the symbols  180  rearranged in the arrangement areas  180 ; a third process of, when a predetermined condition is met, transmitting information of symbols  180  rearranged in the arrangement areas  150  and an arrangement of the rearranged symbols  180  to the center controller  100 ; and a fourth process of causing the payout awarding device  125  to award a payout based on an instruction from the center controller  100 . In other words, the terminal controller  110  has a first processing unit, a second processing unit, a third processing unit, and a fourth processing unit. 
     The terminal controller  110  is connected to the center controller  100  and is in communication with the center controller  100 . 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 20 , the terminal controller  110  is connected to a game starting unit  111 . The game starting unit  111  has a function of outputting a game start signal, in response to an operation by the player. The game start signal output is then input to a later-described game running unit  112 . 
     Further, the terminal controller  110  is connected to a BET unit  109 . The BET unit  109  has functions of receiving a bet entered through an operation by the player, and outputting a BET signal in response to the bet entered. The BET signal output is input to a later-described game running unit  112 . 
     The terminal controller  110  includes: a game running unit  112 , a rearrangement symbol determining unit  113 , a terminal display control unit  114 , and a payout award control unit  124 . The game running unit  112  runs a base game, triggered by a game start signal from the game starting unit  111 . In the base game, symbols  180  are rearranged in the arrangement areas  150  of the terminal display  101 . Further, the terminal controller  110  outputs a progressive signal, triggered by the game start signal. The progressive signal is a signal indicating a game value. 
     The rearrangement symbol determining unit  113  determines, based on the state of game run by the game running unit  112 , a plurality of symbols  180  to be rearranged in the arrangement areas  150  and an arrangement of the symbols  180  (hereinafter, terminal symbol arrangement). The terminal controller  110  then transmits information of the terminal symbol arrangement to the center controller  100 , through a control performed by the game running unit  112 . 
     The terminal display control unit  114  displays the symbols  180  on the terminal display  101  under control of the game running unit  112  and on the basis of a determination of the rearrangement symbol determining unit  113 . A detailed display state will be detailed later. 
     Further, the terminal controller  110  includes a not-shown payout award determining unit. The payout award determining unit determines whether to award a payout, based on a relation among the symbols  180  rearranged in the arrangement areas  150  of the terminal display  101 . The payout award control unit  124  causes the payout awarding device  125  to award a payout, based on a determination of the payout award determining unit and an instruction from the center controller  100 . 
     Meanwhile, each block of the terminal controller  110  may be realized with hardware or with software as needed. 
     [Operation of Terminal Controller  110 ] 
     The following describes an operation of the terminal controller  100  in the above structure. First, the BET unit  109  accepts a BET entered through an operation by a player. Then, in response to the operation, the game starting unit  111  outputs a game start signal to cause the game running unit  112  to start a base game. When the base game is started, the rearrangement symbol determining unit  113  determines symbols  180  to be rearranged in the arrangement areas  150  and an arrangement of the symbols  180  (terminal symbol arrangement). The symbols  180  to be rearranged and the terminal symbol arrangement are determined at every base game. The symbols  180  determined by the rearrangement symbol determining unit  113  undergo an image processing in the terminal display control unit  114 , and are displayed on the terminal display  101 . The terminal display control unit  114  rearranges the symbols  180  in the arrangement areas  150 , according to the arrangement determined. Thus, the terminal controller  110  executes the first process of rearranging symbols  180  in the arrangement areas  150  at a predetermined timing. 
     Further, a not-shown payout determining unit determines whether to award a payout according to a relation among the symbols  180  rearranged in the arrangement areas  150 . When the payout determining unit determines to award a payout, the payout award control unit  124  causes the payout awarding device  125  to award a payout. Thus, the terminal controller  110  executes the second process of awarding a payout according to a relation among the symbols  180  rearranged in the arrangement areas  150 . 
     Further, the terminal controller  110  transmits, to the center controller  100 , symbols  180  determined by the rearrangement symbol determining unit  113  and an arrangement of the symbols  180 , based on a predetermined condition. An example of such a condition is a shared game being run, or the like condition. Thus, the terminal controller  110  executes the third process of, when a predetermined condition is met, transmitting symbols  180  determined and an arrangement of the symbols  180  to the center controller  100 . 
     Further, the payout award control unit  124  causes the payout awarding device  125  to award a progressive payout based on an instruction from the center controller  100 . Thus, the terminal controller  110  executes the fourth process of causing the payout awarding device  125  to award a payout based on an instruction from the center controller  100 . 
     [Center Controller  100 ] 
     The center controller  100  executes: a fifth process of, when the predetermined condition is met, receiving symbols  180  and an arrangement of the symbols  180  from one or more terminal controllers  110 ; a sixth process of combining one symbol arrangement  190  of one gaming terminal  3  with another symbol arrangement  190  of another gaming terminal  3 , and rearranging, on the shared display  102 , symbols  180  identical to those in the one symbol arrangement  190  and the other symbol arrangement  190 , wherein the one symbol arrangement  190  includes the symbols  180  arranged in arrangement areas  150  of the one gaming terminal  3 , and the other symbol arrangement  190  includes the symbols  180  arranged in arrangement areas  150  of the other gaming terminal  3 ; a seventh process of determining whether to award a payout according to a relation among the symbols  180  rearranged on the shared display  102 ; an eighth process of, when the payout is determined to be awarded, causing the conveying device  127  to transfer the shared display  102  between positions corresponding to the respective gaming terminals  3 ; a ninth process of, when the payout is determined to be awarded, determine one of the gaming terminals  3 , based on contribution rates of the combination symbol arrangements  190  of the symbols  180 ; a tenth process of causing the conveying device  127  to transfer the shared display  102  to the position corresponding to the determined one gaming terminal  3 ; an eleventh process of, after detecting that the shared display  102  has arrived at the position corresponding to the determined one gaming terminal  3 , displaying an effect  197  indicating the determined one gaming terminal  3  on the shared display  102 ; and a twelfth process of instructing the terminal controller  110  of the determined one gaming terminal  3  to award the payout. In other words, the terminal controller  100  includes a fifth process unit, a sixth process unit, a seventh process unit, an eighth process unit, a ninth process unit, a tenth process unit, an eleventh process unit, and a twelfth process unit. 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 20 , the center controller  100  is connected to the terminal controller  110  and is in communication with the terminal controller  110 . 
     The center controller  100  includes: a progressive storage unit  115 , a shared game starting unit  116 , a shared game running unit  117 , a rearrangement symbol determining unit  118 , a combination symbol determining unit  119 , a shared display control unit  120 , a payout determining unit  121 , a payout-targeted gaming terminal determining unit  123 , and a convey control unit  126 . 
     The progressive storage unit  115  stores and sums up a game value indicated by a progressive signal received from the terminal controller  110 . The shared game starting unit  116  outputs a shared game start signal, when the predetermined condition is met. The shared game start signal output is input to a later-mentioned shared game running unit  117 . For example, meeting the predetermined situation means a situation where a game value stored in the progressive storage unit  115  sums up to a predetermined value or greater. 
     The shared game running unit  117  runs a shared game, triggered by the shared game start signal received from the shared game starting unit  116 . In the shared game, symbols  180  are rearranged in the arrangement areas  250  of the shared display  102 . 
     The combination symbol determining unit  119  receives information of a terminal symbol arrangement from each of two or more terminal controllers  110 . Based on the information of the terminal symbol arrangement received, the combination symbol determining unit  119  selects symbols  180  and determines an arrangement of the symbols  180  (hereinafter, combination symbol arrangement  190 ). In other words, the combination symbol arrangement  190  determines at least two combination symbol arrangements  190 . 
     The rearrangement symbol determining unit  118  determines symbols  180  to be rearranged in the arrangement areas  250  and an arrangement of the symbols  180 , by combining the at least two combination symbol arrangements  190 . 
     The shared display control unit  120  displays the symbols  180  on the shared display  102  under control of the shared game running unit  117  and on the basis of a determination of the rearrangement symbol determining unit  118 . A detailed display state will be detailed later. 
     Further, when a later-described payout determining unit  121  determines to award a progressive payout, the shared display control unit  120  displays effects  195  and  196  indicating that the progressive payout is awarded on the shared display. 
     Further, when the shared display  102  has arrived at the position corresponding to the one gaming terminal  3  determined by the payout-targeted gaming terminal determining unit  123 , the shared display control unit  120  displays an effect  197  indicating the determined one gaming terminal  3  on the shared display  102 . 
     The payout determining unit  121  determines whether to award a progressive payout based on a relation among the symbols  180  rearranged in the arrangement areas  250  of the shared display  102 . The payout-targeted gaming terminal determining unit  123  determines one of the gaming terminals  3 , when the payout determining unit  121  determines to award the progressive payout. The payout-targeted gaming terminal determining unit  123  may determine one of the gaming terminals  3 , based on calculated contribution rates of the combination symbol arrangements  190 . Further, the payout-targeted gaming terminal determining unit  123  outputs an instruction to the terminal controller  110  of the determined gaming terminal  3  so that a progressive payout is awarded. 
     The convey control unit  126  transfers the shared display  102  by controlling the conveying device  127 . When the payout determining unit  121  determines to award the progressive payout, the convey control unit  126  reciprocates the shared display  102  between positions corresponding to the respective gaming terminals  3 . Further, when the payout-targeted gaming terminal determining unit  123  determines one of the gaming terminals  3 , the convey control unit  126  transfers the shared display  102  to the position corresponding to the determined one gaming terminal  3 . 
     Meanwhile, each block of the center controller  100  may be realized with hardware or with software as needed. 
     [Operation of Center Controller  100 ] 
     The following describes an operation of the center controller  100  in the above structure. First, the game value is stored and summed in the progressive storage unit  115 . A shared game starts when the stored game value sums up to a predetermined value or greater. The combination symbol determining unit  119 , during the shared game, receives information of a terminal symbol arrangement from the terminal controller  110 . Thus, the center controller  100  executes the fifth process of receiving, when a predetermined condition is met, symbols  180  and arrangements thereof (terminal symbol arrangements) from the terminal controllers  110 . 
     The combination symbol determining unit  119  determines at least two combination symbol arrangements  190  based on the terminal symbol arrangement received. Further, the combination symbol determining unit  119  may determine the at least two combination symbol arrangements  190  based on symbols  180  and arrangement thereof in different positions of the arrangement areas  150 . Further, the combination symbol determining unit  119  may determine the at least two combination symbol arrangements  190  on the row or column basis. 
     The rearrangement symbol determining unit  118  determines symbols  180  to be rearranged in the arrangement areas  250  and an arrangement of the symbols  180 , by combining the at least two combination symbol arrangements  190 . 
     The symbols determined by the rearrangement symbol determining unit  118  undergo image processing performed in the shared display control unit  120 , and are displayed on the shared display  102 . According to the arrangement thus determined, the shared display control unit  120  rearranges the symbols  180  in the arrangement areas  250 . Thus, the center controller  100  executes the sixth process of combining one symbol arrangement  190  of one gaming terminal  3  with another symbol arrangement  190  of another gaming terminal  3 , and rearranging, on the shared display  102 , symbols  180  identical to those in the one symbol arrangement  190  and the other symbol arrangement  190 , wherein the one symbol arrangement  190  includes the symbols  180  arranged in arrangement areas  150  of the one gaming terminal  3 , and the other symbol arrangement  190  includes the symbols  180  arranged in arrangement areas  150  of the other gaming terminal  3 . 
     The payout determining unit  121  determines whether to award a progressive payout, according to a relation of the symbols  180  rearranged in the arrangement areas  250 . In other words, the center controller  100  executes the seventh process of determining whether to award a payout according to a relation among the symbols  180  rearranged on the shared display  102 . 
     When the progressive payout is determined to be awarded, the conveying device  127  reciprocates the the shared display  102  between positions corresponding to the gaming terminals  3 . Thus, the center controller  100  executes the eighth process of, when the payout is determined to be awarded, causing the conveying device  127  to transfer the shared display  102  between positions corresponding to the respective gaming terminals  3 . 
     When the payout determining unit  121  determines to award the progressive payout, the payout-targeted gaming terminal determining unit  123  determines one of the gaming terminals  3 . The payout-targeted gaming terminal determining unit  123  calculates contribution rates of the combination symbol arrangements  190 . The payout-targeted gaming terminal determining unit  123  determines one of the gaming terminals  3 , based on the calculated contribution rates. Thus, the center controller  100  executes the ninth process of, when the payout is determined to be awarded, determining one of the gaming terminals  3 , based on contribution rates of the combined symbol arrangements  190  of the symbols  180 . 
     When one of the gaming terminals  3  for awarding the progressive payout is determined, the conveying device  127  transfers the shared display  102  to the position corresponding to the determined one gaming terminal  3 . Thus, the center controller  100  executes the tenth process of causing the conveying device  127  to transfer the shared display  102  to the position corresponding to the determined one gaming terminal  3 . 
     When the shared display  102  has arrived at the position corresponding to the determined one gaming terminal  3 , the position sensor  128  detects that the shared display  102  has arrived at the position. Then, on the shared display  102  is displayed an effect  197  indicating the determined one gaming terminal  3 . Thus, the center controller  100  executes the eleventh process of, after detecting that the shared display  102  has arrived at the position corresponding to the determined one gaming terminal  3 , displaying an effect  197  indicating the determined one gaming terminal  3  on the shared display  102 . 
     When one of the gaming terminals  3  is determined, the payout-targeted gaming terminal determining unit  123  outputs an instruction to the terminal controller  110  of the determined gaming terminal  3  so that a progressive payout is awarded. Thus, the center controller  100  executes the twelfth process of instructing the terminal controller  110  of the determined one gaming terminal  3  to award the payout. 
     The above can be rephrased as follows. The center controller  100  causes the terminal controllers  110  to perform the first process so as to execute a thirteenth process of rearranging symbols  180  in the arrangement areas  150  based on running of a game in the gaming terminals  3 . 
     As is obvious from the above operation, the gaming machine  1  includes a plurality of gaming terminals  3  and a shared display  102 , and realizes a playing method including the steps of: rearranging symbols  180  in arrangement areas  150  at a predetermined timing; awarding a payout according to a relation among the symbols  180  rearranged in the arrangement areas  150 ; transmitting to the center controller  100 , the symbols  180  rearranged in the arrangement areas  150  and an arrangement of the symbols  180 , when a predetermined condition is met; receiving, from terminal controllers  110 , symbols  180  and arrangements thereof, when a predetermined condition is met; &lt;!&gt; combining an arrangement  190  of one gaming terminal  3  with another arrangement  190  of another gaming terminal  3 , and rearranging on the shared display  102  symbols  180  identical to those in the one arrangement  190  and the other arrangement  190 , wherein the one arrangement  190  includes the symbols  180  arranged in arrangement areas  150  of the one gaming terminal  3 , and the other arrangement  190  includes the symbols  180  arranged in arrangement areas  150  of the other gaming terminal  3 ; determining whether to award a payout according to a relation among the symbols  180  rearranged on the shared display  102 ; when the payout is determined to be awarded, causing the conveying device  127  to transfer the shared display  102  between positions corresponding to the respective gaming terminals  3 ; when the payout is determined to be awarded, determine one of the gaming terminals  3 , based on contribution rates of the combination symbol arrangements  190  of the symbols  180 ; causing the conveying device  127  to transfer the shared display  102  to the position corresponding to the determined one gaming terminal  3 ; after detecting that the shared display  102  has arrived at the position corresponding to the determined one gaming terminal  3 , displaying an effect  197  indicating the determined one gaming terminal  3  on the shared display  102 ; instructing the terminal controller  110  of the determined one gaming terminal  3  to award the payout; and causing the payout awarding device  125  to award the payout based on an instruction from the center controller  100 . 
     This can be rephrased as follows. The gaming machine  1  includes a plurality of gaming terminals  3  and a shared display  102 , and realizes a playing method including the steps of: rearranging symbols  180  in arrangement areas  150  based on running of a game; awarding a payout according to a relation among the symbols  180  rearranged in the arrangement areas  150 ; combining an arrangement  190  of one gaming terminal  3  with another arrangement  190  of another gaming terminal  3 , and rearranging on the shared display  102  symbols  180  identical to those in the one arrangement  190  and the other arrangement  190 , wherein the one arrangement  190  includes the symbols  180  arranged in arrangement areas  150  of the one gaming terminal  3 , and the other arrangement  190  includes the symbols  180  arranged in arrangement areas  150  of the other gaming terminal  3 ; determining whether to award a payout according to a relation among the symbols  180  rearranged on the shared display  102 ; when the payout is determined to be awarded, causing the conveying device  127  to transfer the shared display  102  between positions corresponding to the respective gaming terminals  3 ; when the payout is determined to be awarded, determine one of the gaming terminals  3 , based on contribution rates of the combination symbol arrangements  190  of the symbols  180 ; causing the conveying device  127  to transfer the shared display  102  to the position corresponding to the determined one gaming terminal  3 ; after detecting that the shared display  102  has arrived at the position corresponding to the determined one gaming terminal  3 , displaying an effect  197  indicating the determined one gaming terminal  3  on the shared display  102 ; and causing the payout awarding device  125  of the determined one gaming terminal  3  to award the payout. 
     According to the above playing method, symbols are arranged at a predetermined timing in the arrangement areas  150  on a terminal display  101  of a gaming terminal  3 . Then, a payout is awarded according to the symbols  180  rearranged in the arrangement areas  150 . When a predetermined condition is met, symbols  180  identical to those in one symbol arrangement  190  of one gaming terminal  3  are rearranged on the shared display  102  in combination with symbols  180  identical to those in another symbol arrangement  190  of another gaming terminal  3 , wherein the one arrangement  190  includes the symbols  180  arranged in arrangement areas  150  of the one gaming terminal  3 , and the other arrangement  190  includes the symbols  180  arranged in arrangement areas  150  of the other gaming terminal  3 . Then, whether to award a payout is determined according to a relation among the symbols  180  rearranged on the shared display  102 . When the payout is determined to be awarded, the shared display is transferred between positions corresponding to the respective gaming terminals  3 . When the payout is determined to be awarded, one of the gaming terminals  3  is determined based on contribution rates of the combined symbol arrangements  190  of the symbols  180 . The shared display is transferred to the position corresponding to the determined one gaming terminal. After detecting that the shared display has arrived at the position corresponding to the determined one gaming terminal, on the shared display is displayed an effect indicating the determined one gaming terminal. The payout awarding device  125  of the determined one gaming terminal  3  awards the payout. This payout awarded through the only one gaming terminal according to the relation among the symbols rearranged on the shared display realizes a new entertainment characteristic which raises player&#39;s expectation for another payout awarded through the only one gaming terminal in addition to the one awarded as a result of the game run in the gaming terminal. Further, when the payout is determined to be awarded, the shared display is transferred between positions corresponding to the respective gaming terminals and subsequently transferred to the position corresponding to the determined one gaming terminal for awarding the payout. Then, on the shared display is displayed an effect indicating the determined one gaming terminal. This allows players to visually recognize transfers of the shared display and therefore realizes a new entertainment characteristic which raises player&#39;s expectation for which gaming terminal the payout is awarded through. Further, an effect indicating the determined one gaming terminal is displayed after the shared display has arrived at the position corresponding to the determined one gaming terminal. This prevents a loss in expectation for a payout, which is caused by transferring the shared display while displaying thereon the effect. Therefore, a new entertainment characteristic is realized. Further, one of the gaming terminals for awarding the payout is determined based on contribution rates of the combined symbol arrangements of the symbols. This realizes a new entertainment characteristic. Further, a single game is created with the use of a plurality of gaming terminals by rearranging, on the shared display, the symbols identical to those in the symbol arrangement of the one gaming terminal in combination with the symbols identical to those in the other symbol arrangement of the other gaming terminal, wherein the one symbol arrangement includes the symbols arranged in arrangement areas of the one gaming terminal, and the other symbol arrangement includes the symbols arranged in arrangement areas of the other gaming terminal. This realizes a new entertainment characteristic which gives the feelings of “unity” and “sharing” to participating players. 
     [Display State of Shared Display  102  and Transfer State of Shared Display  102 ] 
     The following details an exemplary display state of the shared display  102  during the operations of the gaming machine  1  and the playing method thereof. Note that the following example deals with a case where the shared display  102  adopts a video reel and arranges symbols on a video reel in the form of an image, as illustrated in  FIG. 4 . 
     When the progressive payout is determined to be awarded, on the shared display  102  is displayed an effect  196  indicating that the progressive payout is awarded, as is illustrated in the upper view and the middle view of  FIG. 21 . The effect  196  is a message image indicating that the progressive payout is awarded through only one gaming terminal  3  and that the payout-targeted gaming terminal  3  is presently being determined. Simultaneously, the above payout-targeted gaming terminal determining unit  123  is determining one of the gaming terminals  3 . 
     Further, when the progressive payout is determined to be awarded, the shared display  102  reciprocates between an upper side of a gamining terminal  3  which is given a terminal number  1 , an upper side of a gamining terminal  3  which is given a terminal number  2 , and an upper side of a gamining terminal  3  which is given a terminal number  3 , as is illustrated in the upper view of  FIG. 21 . The upper side of the gaming terminal  3  with the terminal number  1  is a position corresponding to the gaming terminal  3  with the terminal number  1 . Thus, the shared display  102  is transferred between positions corresponding to the respective gaming terminals  3 . The positions corresponding to the respective gaming terminals however are not limited to the upper sides of the gaming terminals. 
     When one of the gaming terminals  3  is determined, the shared display  102  is transferred to the position corresponding to the determined one gaming terminal  3 . In the example shown in the middle of  FIG. 21 , the determined one gaming terminal  3  is the gaming terminal with the terminal number  3 . 
     In the example shown in the lower view of  FIG. 21 , when the shared display  102  has arrived at the position corresponding to the determined one gaming terminal  3 , on the shared display  102  is displayed an effect  197  indicating that one of the gaming terminals  3  has been determined. The effect  197 , for example, is a message image indicating that the progressive payout is awarded through the gaming terminal with the terminal number  3 . Then, the payout awarding device  125  of the gaming terminal  3  with the terminal number  3  awards the progressive payout. 
     Thus, this payout awarded through the only one gaming terminal according to the relation among the symbols rearranged on the shared display realizes a new entertainment characteristic which raises player&#39;s expectation for another payout awarded through the only one gaming terminal in addition to the one awarded as a result of the game run in the gaming terminal. 
     Further, as stated above, when the progressive payout is determined to be awarded, the shared display is transferred between positions corresponding to the respective gaming terminals and subsequently transferred to the position corresponding to the determined one gaming terminal for awarding the payout. Then, on the shared display is displayed an effect indicating the determined one gaming terminal. This allows players to visually recognize transfers of the shared display and therefore realizes a new entertainment characteristic which raises player&#39;s expectation for which gaming terminal the payout is awarded through. 
     Further, an effect indicating the determined one gaming terminal is displayed after the shared display has arrived at the position corresponding to the determined one gaming terminal. This prevents a loss in expectation for a payout, which is caused by transferring the shared display while displaying thereon the effect. Therefore, a new entertainment characteristic is realized. 
     The following details contribution rates of combined symbol arrangements  190  in reference to  FIG. 22 . In the example shown in  FIG. 22 , the condition for determining to award a progressive payout is that four or more scatter symbols “ 7 ” are arranged in the matrix  256 . As illustrated in  FIG. 22 , when the progressive payout is determined to be awarded, the arrangement areas where scatter symbols “7” are arranged are the arrangement areas  251   b,    252   b,    254   a,  and  255   b.    
     The symbols  180  in the arrangement areas  251   a  to  255   a  are arranged based on a combination symbol arrangement  190  of the gaming terminal with the terminal number  1 . This combination symbol arrangement  190  includes one scatter symbol “7”. Therefore, the contribution level (contribution value) of this combination symbol arrangement  190  is 1. 
     Further, the symbols  180  in the arrangement areas  251   b  to  255   b  are arranged based on a combination symbol arrangement  190  of the gaming terminal with the terminal number  3 . This combination symbol arrangement  190  includes three scatter symbols “7”. Therefore, the contribution level of this combination symbol arrangement  190  is 3. 
     Further, the symbols  180  in the arrangement areas  251   c  to  255   c  are arranged based on a combination symbol arrangement  190  of the gaming terminal with the terminal number  2 . This combination symbol arrangement  190  includes no scatter symbols “7”. Therefore, the contribution level of this combination symbol arrangement  190  is 0. 
     Accordingly, since the combination symbol arrangement  190  of the gaming terminal with the terminal number  3  has the highest contribution level, the payout-targeted gaming terminal determining unit  123  determines the gaming terminal with the terminal number  3  as one of the gaming terminals. 
     Thus, one of the gaming terminals for awarding the payout is determined based on contribution rates of the combined symbol arrangements of the symbols. This realizes a new entertainment characteristic. 
     Although the present embodiment deals with a case where the payout-targeted gaming terminal determining unit  123  determines the terminal with the combination symbol arrangement  190  having the highest contribution level, as one of the gaming terminals, the present invention is not limited to this. 
     [Mechanical Structure of Gaming Machine  1 ] 
     Next, the following describes a specific example of mechanical and electrical structures of the gaming machine  1  thus structured. 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 9 , the gaming machine  1  includes: gaming terminals  3  which run a game independently from each other; a center controller  100  connected to the gaming terminals  3 , which is in communication with the gaming terminals  3  and runs a shared game; a shared display  102  which displays thereon an effect image related to the shared game; a rail  271  which supports the shared display  102  and allows the shared display  102  to transfer to a position immediately above one of the gaming terminals  3 ; and a not-shown drive motor  270  which causes the shared display  102  to transfer along the rail  271 . 
     The not-shown position sensor  128  is provided at a lower part of an outer surface of the shared display  102 . Each gaming terminal is assigned with a marker, and the position sensor  128  reads the marker to determine, based on the read marker, which one of the gaming terminals  3  corresponds to the position at which the shared display  102  has arrived. The position sensor  128  transmits the determined position information to a main CPU  241 . Thus, the position sensor  128  detects that the shared display  102  has arrived at a position corresponding to a gaming terminal  3 . Note that the present embodiment deals with a case where the position sensor  128  is a type of sensor which reads a marker. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, it may be a switching sensor and the like. 
     The drive motor  270  is driven by a control signal from the main CPU  241 , and rotates the drive wheel to transfer the shared display  102 . The example illustrated in the upper view of  FIG. 23  shows that the shared display  102  has arrived at the position corresponding to the left gaming terminal  3  as viewed from the front of the gaming machine  1 . Further, the example illustrated in the lower view of  FIG. 23  shows that the shared display  102  has arrived at the position corresponding to the right gaming terminal  3  as viewed from the front of the gaming machine  1 . 
     [Electrical Structure of Center Controller  100 ] 
       FIG. 24  is a block diagram illustrating an electrical structure of the center controller  100 . The center controller  100  is provided therein with a control unit. As illustrated in  FIG. 24 , the control unit includes a motherboard  240 , a gaming board  260 , an actuator, or the like. 
     The gaming board  260  has the same structure as that of the gaming board  50 . The motherboard  240  has the same structure as that of the motherboard  40 . The communication interface  244  communicates with the terminal controller  110  through a communication line. 
     The graphic board  268  has the same structure as that of the graphic board  68 , except in that the graphic board  268  controls image displaying of the shared display  102  based on a control signal from the main CPU  241 . 
     The drive motor  270  is a stepping motor and is connected to a not-shown drive wheel. The drive motor  270  is driven by a control signal from the main CPU  241 , and rotates the drive wheel to transfer the shared display  102 . 
     [Operation of Center Controller  100 : Progressive Award Process Routine] 
     The following describes a progressive award process routine which is called during execution of the center side initial setting routine. 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 25 , when the progressive award process routine is started, the main CPU  241  displays an effect  195  indicating that a progressive payout is awarded on the shared display  102  (k1). Then, the main CPU  241  displays an effect  196  indicating that the payout-targeted gaming terminal  3  is presently being determined on the shared display  102  (k2). 
     Next, the main CPU  241  starts transferring the shared display  102  through the conveying device  127  (k3). Accordingly, the shared display  102  reciprocates between the upper sides of the respective gaming terminals  3 . 
     Then, the main CPU  241  specifies a combination symbol arrangement  190  of each of the gaming terminals  3  (k4). Then, the main CPU  241  calculates respective contribution levels of the specified combination symbol arrangements  190 , wherein each of the contribution level(contribution value) is a level at which one arrangement  190  contributes to the determination of awarding the progressive payout (k5). Then, the main CPU  241  determines one payout-targeted gaming terminal  3 , based on the calculated contribution value (k6). 
     Then, the main CPU  241  transfers the shared display  102  to the position corresponding to the determined payout-targeted gaming terminal  3  through the conveying device  127 . Then, the main CPU  241  determines whether it is detected that the shared display  102  has arrived at the position corresponding to the determined payout-targeted gaming terminal  3  (k8). When it is determined that the arrival is not detected (E8:NO), E8 is executed until the arrival is detected. 
     On the other hand in E8, when it is determined that the arrival is detected (E8:YES), the main CPU  241  displays an effect  197  indicating that one of the gaming terminals  3  has been determined on the shared display  102  (k9). Then, the main CPU  241  outputs an instruction signal to the determined payout-targeted gaming terminal  3  so that the progressive payout is awarded (k10). 
     As is already mentioned, this payout awarded through the only one gaming terminal  3  according to the relation among the symbols  180  rearranged on the shared display  102  realizes a new entertainment characteristic which raises player&#39;s expectation for another payout awarded through the only one gaming terminal  3  in addition to the one awarded as a result of the game run in the gaming terminal  3 . 
     Further, as stated above, when the progressive payout is determined to be awarded, the shared display  102  is transferred between positions corresponding to the respective gaming terminals  3  and subsequently transferred to the position corresponding to the determined one gaming terminal  3  for awarding the payout. Then, on the shared display  102  is displayed an effect  197  indicating the determined one gaming terminal  3 . This allows players to visually recognize transfers of the shared display  102  and therefore realizes a new entertainment characteristic which raises player&#39;s expectation for which gaming terminal  3  the payout is awarded through. 
     Further, an effect  197  indicating the determined one gaming terminal  3  is displayed after the shared display  102  has arrived at the position corresponding to the determined one gaming terminal  3 . This prevents a loss in expectation for a payout, which is caused by transferring the shared display  102  while displaying thereon the effect  197 . Therefore, a new entertainment characteristic is realized. 
     Thus, one of the gaming terminals  3  for awarding the payout is determined, based on contribution rates of the combined symbol arrangements  190  of the symbols  180 . This realizes a new entertainment characteristic. 
     Further, when the payout is determined to be awarded, on the shared display  102  is displayed an effect  195  indicating that the payout is awarded. This realizes a new entertainment characteristic which gives a player more concrete expectation for a payout awarded through the only one gaming terminal  3  according to the relation among the symbols  180  rearranged on the shared display  102 . 
     Further, as is already mentioned, a single game involving a plurality of gaming terminals is created by rearranging, on the shared display  102 , symbols  180  identical to those in one symbol arrangement  190  of one gaming terminal  3  in combination with symbols  180  identical to those in another symbol arrangement  190  of another gaming terminal  3 , wherein the one arrangement  190  includes the symbols  180  arranged in arrangement areas  150  of the one gaming terminal  3 , and the other arrangement  190  includes the symbols  180  arranged in arrangement areas  150  of the other gaming terminal  3 . This realizes a new entertainment characteristic which gives the feelings of “unity” and “sharing” to participating players. 
     Further, as is already mentioned, the symbols  180  identical to those in the one symbol arrangement  190  and the symbols  180  identical to those in the other symbol arrangement  190  are combined and rearranged, on the row or column basis, on the shared display  102 . A player therefore is able to easily understand how rearranged symbols on the terminal displays  101  are combined and rearranged on the shared display  102 . This characteristic enhances the feelings of “unity” and “sharing” among the players. 
     Further, on the shared display  102  are rearranged the symbols  180  identical to those in the one symbol arrangement  190  and the symbols  180  identical to those in the other symbol arrangement  190 , the symbols  180  of the other symbol arrangement  190  being in different positions from those of the one symbol arrangement  190 . A player therefore is able to easily understand how rearranged symbols on another terminal display  101  are combined and rearranged on the shared display  102 . This characteristic enhances the feelings of “unity” and “sharing” among the players. 
     Note that the present embodiment deals with a case where the center controller  100  determines a combination symbol arrangement based on a terminal symbol arrangement. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, it may be the terminal controller  110  which determines a combination symbol arrangement based on a terminal symbol arrangement. 
     Note further that the number of gaming terminals  3  is three in the present embodiment. However, the present invention is not limited to this, provided that at least two gaming terminals  3  are provided. 
     The detailed description of the present invention provided hereinabove mainly focused on characteristics thereof for the purpose of easier understanding; however, the scope of the present invention shall be construed as broadly as possible, encompassing various forms of other possible embodiments, and therefore the present invention shall not be limited to the above description. Further, the terms and phraseology used in the present specification are adopted solely to provide specific illustration of the present invention, and in no case should the scope of the present invention be limited by such terms and phraseology. Further, it will be obvious for those skilled in the art that the other structures, systems, methods or the like are possible, within the spirit of the invention described in the present specification. The description of claims therefore shall encompass structures equivalent to the present invention, unless otherwise such structures are regarded as to depart from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Further, the abstract is provided to allow, through a simple investigation, quick analysis of the technical features and essences of the present invention by an intellectual property office, a general public institution, or one skilled in the art who is not fully familiarized with patent and legal or professional terminology. It is therefore not an intention of the abstract to limit the scope of the present invention which shall be construed on the basis of the description of the claims. To fully understand the object and effects of the present invention, it is strongly encouraged to sufficiently refer to disclosures of documents already made available. 
     The detailed description of the present invention provided hereinabove includes a process executed on a computer or computer network. The above descriptions and expressions are provided to allow the one skilled in the art to most efficiently understand the present invention. A process performed in or by respective steps yielding one result or blocks with a predetermined processing function described in the present specification shall be understood as a process with no self-contradiction. Further, the electrical or magnetic signal is transmitted/received and written in the respective steps or blocks. It should be noted that such a signal is expressed in the form of bit, value, symbol, text, terms, number, or the like solely for the sake of convenience. Although the present specification occasionally personifies the processes performed in the steps or blocks, these processes are essentially executed by various devices. Further, the other structures necessary for the steps or blocks are obvious from the above descriptions. 
     Third Embodiment 
     The following describes a third embodiment of a gaming machine and a playing method thereof according to the present invention. Note that reference numbers and symbols given to members and steps of flowcharts are only applicable to those described within the present embodiment, and do not represent the members or the steps of the other embodiments. 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 26 , a gaming machine  1  including more than one gaming terminals  3  executes a playing method including the steps of: rearranging symbols  180  in the arrangement areas  150  of each of the gaming terminals  3 , based on running of a game in the gaming terminal; awarding a payout according to a relation among the symbols  180  rearranged in the arrangement areas  150 ; combining, on the row or column basis, one arrangement  190  of symbols  180  rearranged in the arrangement areas  150  of one gaming terminal  3  with another arrangement  190  of symbols  180  rearranged in the arrangement areas  150  of another gaming terminal  3  to form a single symbol matrix  185  including the symbols  180  of the one arrangement  190  and the other arrangement  190 ; scrolling the symbol matrix  185  having the symbols  180  on the shared display  102 ; rearranging on the shared display  102  some of the symbols  180  in the symbol matrix  185 , without altering the arrangement of the symbol matrix  185 ; scrolling a row or column of the symbol matrix  185  having the symbols  180  on the shared display  185 ; rearranging on the shared display  102  some of the symbols  180  in the symbol matrix  185  so as to conform with a row or column of arrangements  190  in the symbol matrix  185 ; and awarding a payout according to a relation among symbols  180  rearranged on the shared display  102 . 
     The “arranging” in this specification means a state where the symbols  180  can be visually observed by a player. That is, the wording means a state where the symbols  180  are displayed in the arrangement areas  150 , in  FIG. 26 . Arranging the symbols  180  again after dismissing the symbols  180  is referred to as “rearranging”. 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 26 , the arrangement areas  150  are areas of a terminal display  101  where symbols  180  are arranged. The arrangement areas  150  form display windows  151  to  155  as illustrated in  FIG. 26 . For example, arrangement areas  151   a,    151   b,  and  151   c  form the display window  151 . Further, the display windows  151  to  155  form a matrix  156 . The matrix  156 , in other words, is formed with the plurality of arrangement areas  150  arranged in a matrix. 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 29 , arrangement areas  250  are areas of the shared display  102  where symbols  180  are arranged. The arrangement areas  150  form display windows  251  to  255  as illustrated in  FIG. 29 . For example, the arrangement areas  255   a,    255   b,  and  255   c  form the display window  255 . Further, the display windows  251  to  255  form a matrix  256 . The matrix  256 , in other words, is formed with the plurality of arrangement areas  250  arranged in a matrix. 
     Further, “scatter symbols” are such symbols which provide advantages to a player when a predetermined number or more of them are displayed in the matrix  156 . For example, the advantages includes: a state where coins corresponding to the scatter symbols are paid out, a state where the number of coins to be paid out is added to a credit, a state where a bonus game is started. 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 27 , the gaming machine  1  which executes the playing method has the shared display  102 , a center controller  100 , and gaming terminals  3 . Each of the gaming terminals  3  includes a terminal display  101  and a terminal controller  110 . 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 28 , the terminal display  101  has the arrangement areas  150 , and symbols  180  are arranged in the arrangement areas  150 . 
     The terminal display  101  may have a mechanical structure adopting a reel device which rotates a reel to arrange the symbols  180 . Alternatively, the terminal display  101  may have an electric structure in which a video reel is displayed as an image and symbols  180  on a video reel are arranged in the form of an image. Further, the terminal display  101  may adopt a combination of the mechanical structure (reel) and the electrical structure (video reel). Examples of the electrical structure include a liquid crystal display device, a CRT (cathode-ray tube), a plasma display device, or the like. Further, the number of arrangement areas  150  is not limited. A specific structure of the terminal display  101  will be detailed later. 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 29 , the shared display  102  has the arrangement areas  250 , and symbols  180  are arranged in the arrangement areas  250 . This shared display  102  displays a progressive jackpot value  200  as illustrated in  FIG. 29 . A specific structure of the shared display  102  will be detailed later. 
     [Terminal Controller  110 ] 
     The terminal controller  110  executes: a first process of rearranging symbols  180  in arrangement areas  150  at a predetermined timing; a second process of awarding a payout according to a relation among the symbols  180  rearranged in the arrangement areas  150 ; and a third process of, when a predetermined condition is met, transmitting information of symbols  180  rearranged in the arrangement areas  150  and an arrangement of the rearranged symbols  180  to the center controller  100 . In other words, the terminal controller  110  has a first processing unit, a second processing unit and a third processing unit. 
     The terminal controller  110  is connected to a center controller  100  and is in communication with the center controller  100 . 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 27 , the terminal controller  110  is connected to a game starting unit  111 . The game starting unit  111  has a function of outputting a game start signal, in response to an operation by the player. The game start signal output is then input to a later-described game running unit  112 . 
     Further, the terminal controller  110  is connected to a BET unit  109 . The BET unit  109  has functions of receiving a bet entered through an operation by the player, and outputting a BET signal in response to the bet entered. The BET signal output is input to a later-described game running unit  112 . 
     The terminal controller  110  includes: a game running unit  112 , a rearrangement symbol determining unit  113 , and a terminal display control unit  114 . The game running unit  112  runs a base game, triggered by a game start signal from the game starting unit  111 . In the base game, symbols  180  are rearranged in the arrangement areas  150  of the terminal display  101 . Further, the terminal controller  110  outputs a progressive signal, triggered by the game start signal. The progressive signal is a signal indicating a game value. 
     The rearrangement symbol determining unit  113  determines, based on the state of game run by the game running unit  112 , a plurality of symbols  180  to be rearranged in the arrangement areas  150  and an arrangement of the symbols  180  (hereinafter, terminal symbol arrangement). The terminal controller  110  then transmits information of the terminal symbol arrangement to the center controller  100 , through a control performed by the game running unit  112 . 
     The terminal display control unit  114  displays the symbols  180  on the terminal display  101  under control of the game running unit  112  and on the basis of a determination of the rearrangement symbol determining unit  113 . A detailed display state will be detailed later. 
     Further, the terminal controller  110  includes a not-shown payout award determining unit and a payout awarding unit. The not-shown payout award determining unit determines whether to award a payout, based on a relation among the symbols  180  rearranged in the arrangement areas  150  of the terminal display  101 . Then, the not-shown payout awarding unit awards a payout based on a determination of the not-shown payout award determining unit. 
     Meanwhile, each block of the terminal controller  110  may be realized with hardware or with software as needed. 
     [Operation of Terminal Controller  110 ] 
     The following describes an operation of the terminal controller  110  in the above structure. First, the BET unit  109  accepts a BET entered through an operation by a player. Then, in response to the operation, the game starting unit  111  outputs a game start signal to cause the game running unit  112  to start a base game. When the base game is started, the rearrangement symbol determining unit  113  determines symbols  180  to be rearranged in the arrangement areas  150  and an arrangement of the symbols  180  (terminal symbol arrangement). The symbols  180  to be rearranged and the terminal symbol arrangement are determined at every base game. The symbols  180  determined by the rearrangement symbol determining unit  113  undergo an image processing in the terminal display control unit  114 , and are displayed on the terminal display  101 . The terminal display control unit  114  rearranges the symbols  180  in the arrangement areas  150 , according to the arrangement determined. Thus, the terminal controller  110  executes the first process of rearranging symbols  180  in the arrangement areas  150  at a predetermined timing. 
     Further, a not-shown payout determining unit determines whether to award a payout according to a relation among the symbols  180  rearranged in the arrangement areas  150 . When the payout determining unit determines to award a payout, a not-shown payout awarding unit awards a payout. Thus, the terminal controller  110  executes the second process of awarding a payout according to a relation among the symbols  180  rearranged in the arrangement areas  150 . 
     Further, the terminal controller  110  transmits, to the center controller  100 , symbols  180  determined by the rearrangement symbol determining unit  113  and an arrangement of the symbols  180 , based on a predetermined condition. An example of such a condition is a shared game being run, or the like condition. Thus, the terminal controller  110  executes the third process of, when a predetermined condition is met, transmitting symbols  180  determined and an arrangement of the symbols  180  to the center controller  100 . 
     [Operation of Center Controller  100 ] 
     The center controller  100  is structured to execute: a fourth process of, when a predetermined condition is met, receiving arrangements of symbols  180  from more than one terminal controllers  110 ; a fifth process of combining, on the row or column basis, one arrangement  190  of symbols  180  rearranged in the arrangement areas  150  of one gaming terminal  3  with another arrangement  190  of symbols  180  rearranged in the arrangement areas  150  of another gaming terminal  3  to form a single symbol matrix  185  including the symbols  180  of the one arrangement  190  and the other arrangement  190 ; a sixth process of scrolling the symbol matrix  185  having the symbols  180  on the shared display  102 ; a seventh process of rearranging on the shared display  102  some of the symbols  180  in the symbol matrix  185 , without altering the arrangement of the symbol matrix  185 ; an eight process of scrolling a row or column of the symbol matrix  185  having the symbols  180  on the shared display  185 ; a ninth process of rearranging on the shared display  102  some of the symbols  180  in the symbol matrix  185  so as to conform with a row or column of arrangements  190  in the symbol matrix  185 ; and a tenth process of awarding a payout according to a relation among symbols  180  rearranged on the shared display  102 . In other words, the center controller  100  includes a fourth process unit, a fifth process unit, a sixth process unit, a seventh process unit, an eighth process unit, a ninth process unit, and a tenth process unit. 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 27 , the center controller  100  is connected to the terminal controller  110  and is in communication with the terminal controller  110 . 
     The center controller  100  includes: a progressive storage unit  115 , a shared game starting unit  116 , a shared game running unit  117 , a rearrangement symbol determining unit  118 , combination symbol determining unit  119 , a shared display control unit  120 , a payout determining unit  121 , a payout awarding unit  122 , and a symbol matrix formation unit  124 . 
     The progressive storage unit  115  stores and sums up a game value indicated by a progressive signal received from the terminal controller  110 . The shared game starting unit  116  outputs a shared game start signal, when the predetermined condition is met. The shared game start signal output is input to a later-mentioned shared game running unit  117 . For example, meeting the predetermined situation means a situation where a game value stored in the progressive storage unit  115  sums up to a predetermined value or greater. 
     The shared game running unit  117  runs a shared game, triggered by the shared game start signal received from the shared game starting unit  116 . In the shared game, symbols  180  are rearranged in the arrangement areas  250  of the shared display  102 . 
     The combination symbol determining unit  119  receives information of a terminal symbol arrangement from each of two or more terminal controllers  110 . Based on the information of the terminal symbol arrangement received, the combination symbol determining unit  119  selects symbols  180  and determines an arrangement of the symbols  180  (hereinafter, combination symbol arrangement  190 ). In other words, the combination symbol determining unit  119  determines at least two combination symbol arrangements  190 . 
     When the combination symbol arrangements  190  are determined by the combination symbol determining unit  119 , the symbol matrix formation unit  124  forms one symbol matrix  185  including more than one arrangements of symbols  180  by combining at least two combination symbol arrangements  190  having determined. The symbol matrix formation unit  124  may form the symbol matrix  185  by combining the combination symbol arrangements  190  on the row or column basis. 
     Note that “combining, on the row basis” means to joint one or more rows in a direction in which rows are arranged (hereinafter, row direction). Note further that “combining, on the column basis” means to joint one or more columns in a direction in which columns are arranged (hereinafter, column direction). 
     The rearrangement symbol determining unit  118  determines, based on the symbol matrix  185  formed by the symbol matrix formation unit  124 , an arrangement of symbols  180  to be rearranged in the arrangement areas  250 . 
     The rearrangement symbol determining unit  118  may determine the arrangement of symbols  180  to be rearranged in the arrangement areas  250 , so that some of the symbols  180  in the symbol matrix  185  are rearranged without altering the arrangement of the symbol matrix  185 . Further, the rearrangement symbol determining unit  118  may determine the arrangement of symbols  180  to be rearranged in the arrangement areas  250  so as to conform with a row or column of the symbol arrangements  190  in the symbol matrix  185 . 
     The shared display control unit  120  displays the symbols  180  on the shared display  102  under control of the shared game running unit  117  and on the basis of the symbol matrix  185  formed by the symbol matrix formation unit  124  and a determination of the rearrangement symbol determining unit  118 . A detailed display state will be detailed later. 
     The payout determining unit  121  determines whether to award a progressive payout based on a relation among the symbols  180  rearranged in the arrangement areas  250  of the shared display  102 . Then, the payout awarding unit  122  awards a progressive payout based on a determination of the payout determining unit  121 . 
     Meanwhile, each block of the center controller  100  may be realized with hardware or with software as needed. 
     [Operation of Center Controller  100 ] 
     The following describes an operation of the center controller  100  in the above structure. First, the game value is stored and summed in the progressive storage unit  115 . A shared game starts when the stored game value sums up to a predetermined value or greater. The combination symbol determining unit  119 , during the shared game, receives information of a terminal symbol arrangement from the terminal controller  110 . Thus, the center controller  100  executes the fourth process of receiving, when a predetermined condition is met, symbols  180  and arrangements thereof (terminal symbol arrangements) from the terminal controllers  110 . 
     The combination symbol determining unit  119  determines at least two combination symbol arrangements  190  based on the terminal symbol arrangement received. Further, the combination symbol determining unit  119  may determine the at least two combination symbol arrangements  190  based on symbols  180  and arrangement thereof in different positions of the arrangement areas  150 . Further, the combination symbol determining unit  119  may determine the at least two combination symbol arrangements  190  on the row or column basis. 
     The symbol matrix formation unit  124  forms one symbol matrix  185 , by jointing the at least two combination symbol arrangements  190  determined by the combination symbol determining unit  119 , in the row direction. Alternatively, the symbol matrix formation unit  124  forms one symbol matrix  185 , by jointing the at least two combination symbol arrangements  190  in the column direction. Thus, the center controller  100  executes the fifth process of combining, on the row or column basis, one arrangement  190  of symbols  180  rearranged in the arrangement areas  150  of one gaming terminal  3  with another arrangement  190  of symbols  180  rearranged in the arrangement areas  150  of another gaming terminal  3  to form one symbol matrix  185  including the symbols  180  of the one arrangement  190  and the other arrangement  190 . 
     The rearrangement symbol determining unit  118  determines, based on the symbol matrix  185  formed by the symbol matrix formation unit  124 , an arrangement of symbols  180  to be rearranged in the arrangement areas  250 , so that some of the symbols  180  in the symbol matrix  185  are rearranged without altering the arrangement of the symbol matrix  185 . 
     The symbols  180  determined by the rearrangement symbol determining unit  118  undergo image processing performed in the shared display control unit  120 , and are scrolled on the shared display  102  on the basis of symbol matrix. Thus, the center controller  100  executes the sixth process of scrolling the symbol matrix  185  having the symbols  180  on the shared display  102 . 
     According to the arrangement thus determined, the shared display control unit  120  rearranges the symbols  180  in the arrangement areas  250 . The arrangement determined by the rearrangement symbol determining unit  118  conforms with a part of arrangements of symbols  180  on the basis of the symbol matrix. As such, the symbols  180  are rearranged in the arrangement areas  250  in such a manner as to conform with the part of the arrangements of the symbols on the basis of the symbol matrix. Thus, the center controller  100  executes the seventh process of rearranging on the shared display  102  some of the symbols  180  in the symbol matrix  185 , without altering the arrangement of the symbol matrix  185 . 
     The symbols  180  determined by the rearrangement symbol determining unit  118  may undergo image processing performed in the shared display control unit  120  so as to be scrolled in a row or column of the symbol matrix  185  on the shared display  102 . Thus, the center controller  100  executes the eighth process of scrolling a row or column of the symbol matrix  185  having the symbols  180  on the shared display  102 . 
     According to the arrangement thus determined, the shared display control unit  120  rearranges the symbols  180  in the arrangement areas  250 . Since the arrangement determined by the rearrangement symbol determining unit  118  conforms with a row or column of the arrangements  190  in the symbol matrix  185 , the symbols  180  are rearranged in the arrangement areas  250  so as to conform with a row or column of the symbol arrangements  190  in the symbol matrix  185 . Thus, the center controller  100  executes the ninth process of rearranging on the shared display  102  some of the symbols  180  in the symbol matrix  185  so as to conform with a row or column of arrangements  190  in the symbol matrix  185 . 
     The payout determining unit  121  determines whether to award a progressive payout, according to a relation of the symbols  180  rearranged in the arrangement areas  250 . If the payout determining unit  121  determines to award a progressive payout, the payout awarding unit  122  awards the progressive payout. Thus, the center controller  100  executes the tenth process of awarding a payout according to a relation among symbols  180  rearranged on the shared display  102 . 
     The above can be rephrased as follows. The center controller  100  causes the terminal controllers  110  to perform the first process of rearranging symbols  180  in the arrangement areas  150  of each of the gaming terminals  3 , based on running of a game in the gaming terminal  3 . 
     As is obvious from the above operation, the gaming machine  1  includes a plurality of gaming terminals  3  and a shared display  102 , and realizes a playing method including the steps of: rearranging symbols  180  in arrangement areas  150  at a predetermined timing; awarding a payout according to a relation among the symbols  180  rearranged in the arrangement areas  150 ; transmitting to the center controller  100 , the symbols  180  rearranged in the arrangement areas  150  and an arrangement of the symbols  180 , when a predetermined condition is met; receiving, from terminal controllers  110 , symbols  180  and arrangements thereof, when a predetermined condition is met; combining, on the row or column basis, one arrangement  190  of symbols  180  rearranged in the arrangement areas  150  of one gaming terminal  3  with another arrangement  190  of symbols  180  rearranged in the arrangement areas  150  of another gaming terminal  3  to form one symbol matrix  185  including the symbols  180  of the one arrangement  190  and the other arrangement  190 ; scrolling the symbol matrix  185  having the symbols  180  on the shared display  102 ; a seventh process of rearranging on the shared display  102  some of the symbols  180  in the symbol matrix  185 , without altering the arrangement of the symbol matrix  185 ; an eight process of scrolling a row or column of the symbol matrix  185  having the symbols  180  on the shared display  185 ; a ninth process of rearranging on the shared display  102  some of the symbols  180  in the symbol matrix  185  so as to conform with a row or column of arrangements  190  in the symbol matrix  185 ; and a tenth process of awarding a payout according to a relation among symbols  180  rearranged on the shared display  102 . 
     This can be rephrased as follows. The gaming machine  1  realizes a playing method realizing steps of: rearranging symbols  180  in the arrangement areas  150  of each of the gaming terminals  3 , based on running of a game in the gaming terminal; awarding a payout according to a relation among the symbols  180  rearranged in the arrangement areas  150 ; combining, on the row or column basis, one arrangement  190  of symbols  180  rearranged in the arrangement areas  150  of one gaming terminal  3  with another arrangement  190  of symbols  180  rearranged in the arrangement areas  150  of another gaming terminal  3  to form a single symbol matrix  185  including the symbols  180  of the one arrangement  190  and the other arrangement  190 ; scrolling the symbol matrix  185  having the symbols  180  on the shared display  102 ; rearranging on the shared display  102  some of the symbols  180  in the symbol matrix  185 , without altering the arrangement of the symbol matrix  185 ; scrolling a row or column of the symbol matrix  185  having the symbols  180  on the shared display  185 ; rearranging on the shared display  102  some of the symbols  180  in the symbol matrix  185  so as to conform with a row or column of arrangements  190  in the symbol matrix  185 ; and awarding a payout according to a relation among symbols  180  rearranged on the shared display  102 . 
     According to the above playing method, symbols are rearranged at a predetermined timing in the arrangement areas  150  on a terminal display  101  of a gaming terminal  3 . Then, a payout is awarded according to the symbols  180  rearranged in the arrangement areas  150 . When a predetermined condition is met, one arrangement of symbols rearranged in the arrangement areas of one gaming terminal is combined with another arrangement of symbols rearranged in the arrangement areas of another gaming terminal to form one symbol matrix. Symbols in the symbol matrix are scrolled on the shared display. Then, some of the symbols in the symbol matrix are rearranged on the shared display. Then, a payout is awarded according to the symbols  180  rearranged on the shared display  102 . This payout awarded according to the relation among the symbols rearranged on the shared display realizes a new entertainment characteristic which raises player&#39;s expectation for another payout in addition to the one awarded as a result of the game run in the gaming terminal. Further, the above structure creates one game involving a plurality of gaming terminals by forming one symbol matrix including a combination of one arrangement of symbols rearranged in arrangement areas of one gaming terminal and another arrangement of symbols rearranged in arrangement areas of another gaming terminal. This realizes a new entertainment characteristic which gives the feelings of “unity” and “sharing” to participating players. Further, a payout is awarded based on a part of the symbols in the symbol matrix formed. This provides a wider variation of payout than the variation of payout awarded based on a fixed symbol matrix of a known art. As such, it is possible to provide a new entertainment characteristic. Further, Then, some of the symbols in the symbol matrix are rearranged on the shared display, without altering the arrangement of the symbol matrix. Therefore an arrangement of symbols rearranged in one gaming terminal stand higher chance of recurring on the shared display. Further, the structure improves the player&#39;s predictability of symbol arrangements on the shared display, and therefore increases the player&#39;s expectation at a time of scrolling the symbols on the shared display. Thus, it is possible to provide a new entertainment characteristic. Further, since a row or column of the symbol matrix is scrolled on the shared display and some of the symbols in the symbol matrix are rearranged on the shared display so as to conform with a row or column of arrangements in the symbol matrix, an arrangement of symbols in a gaming terminal may be formed on the shared display. This provides a wider variation of payout than the variation of payout awarded based on a conventional fixed symbol matrix. As such, it is possible to provide a new entertainment characteristic. 
     [Display State of Terminal Display  101 ] 
     The following details an exemplary display state of the terminal display  101  during the operations of the gaming machine  1  and the playing method thereof. Note that the following example deals with a case where the terminal display  101  adopts a video reel and arranges symbols on a video reel in the form of an image, as illustrated in  FIG. 28 . 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 28 , a matrix  156  is in the center of the terminal display  101 . The matrix  156  includes a symbol column having symbols  180 , which is scrolled as illustrated in the upper left of  FIG. 28 . The display windows  151  to  155  are respectively divided into upper stages  151   a  to  155   a,  central stages  151   b  to  155   b,  and lower stages  151   c  to  155   c.  The symbols  180  are stopped (arranged) in the stages  151   a  to  155   a,    151   b  to  155   b,  and  151   c  to  155   c,  respectively. For example, in  FIG. 28 , “DIAMOND” is stopped in  151   a  of the upper stage of the display window  151 , “7” is stopped in  152   b  of the central stage of the display window  152  and “DIAMOND” is stopped in  153   c  of the lower stage of the display window  153 . In short, the matrix  156  is a matrix of arrangement areas, including five columns/three rows. The matrix  156  however is not limited to the one with the five-columns/three-rows. 
     As is illustrated in the upper left of  FIG. 28 , the terminal display  101  variably displays symbols  180  when a base game is started in the gaming terminal  3 . When this variable displaying of symbols  180  stops, symbols  180  are rearranged in the arrangement areas  150 , as illustrated in  FIG. 28 . Then, a payout according to a relation among the symbols  180  rearranged is awarded. 
     A frame including all the symbols  180  thus rearranged is variably displayed. An arrangement of symbols  180  in the frame are a combination symbol arrangement  190 . For example, the frame illustrated at the lower part of  FIG. 28  shows that an arrangement of symbols  180  rearranged in the matrix  156  is a combination symbol arrangement  190 . 
     Note that the present embodiment deals with a case where a combination symbol arrangement  190  indicates the entire arrangement of symbols  180  rearranged. However, the present invention is not limited to this and the combination symbol arrangement  190  may indicate a part of the arrangement of symbols  180  rearranged. In such a case, the frame may be variably displayed and stopped, and an arrangement of symbols  180  in the frame may be determined as the combination symbol arrangement  190 . 
     Further, the combination symbol arrangement  190  may be one row as the combination symbol arrangement  190   d  shown in  FIG. 32 , or more than one rows as the combination symbol arrangement  190   e  shown in  FIG. 32 . Alternatively, the combination symbol arrangement  190  may be one column as the combination symbol arrangement  190   b  shown in  FIG. 32 , or more than one columns as the combination symbol arrangement  190   c  shown in  FIG. 32 . The combination symbol arrangements  190  on the row or column basis allows players to easily understand how rearranged symbols  180  on the terminal displays  101  are combined and rearranged on the shared display  102 . This enhances the feelings of “unity” and “sharing” among participating players. 
     [Display State of Shared Display  102 ] 
     The following details an exemplary display state of the shared display  102  during the operations of the gaming machine  1  and the playing method thereof. Note that the following example deals with a case where the shared display  102  adopts a video reel and arranges symbols on a video reel in the form of an image, as illustrated in  FIG. 29 . 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 29 , a matrix  256  having several arrangement areas  250  is in the center of the shared display  102 . In the matrix  256  is scrolled the symbol matrix  185  having many symbols  180  as illustrated in the middle part of  FIG. 29 . The display windows  251  to  255  are divided into upper stages  251   a  to  255   a,  central stages  251   b  to  255   b,  and lower stages  251   c  to  255   c.  The symbols  180  are stopped (arranged) in the stages  251   a  to  255   a,    251   b  to  255   b,  and  251   c  to  255   c,  respectively. In short, the matrix  256  is a matrix of arrangement areas including five columns/three rows. The matrix  256  however is not limited to the one with the five-columns/three-rows. 
     This shared display  102  displays at its lower part a progressive jackpot value  200  as illustrated in  FIG. 29 . The progressive jackpot value  200  is the sum of game values having been accumulated. In  FIG. 29  for example, the progressive jackpot value  200  is 1,929.00 dollars. 
     As shown in the upper part of  FIG. 29 , more than one combination symbol arrangements  190  are combined to form one symbol matrix  185  having many symbols  180 , when a shared game is run. 
     As illustrated in the middle of  FIG. 29 , when one symbol matrix  185  is formed, the matrix  256  having the arrangement areas scrolls within the symbol matrix  185  having many symbols  180 , in the row direction, thus variably displaying the symbols  180  on the shared display  102 . When this variable displaying of symbols  180  stops, symbols  180  are rearranged in the arrangement areas  250 , as illustrated in  FIG. 29 . Symbols  180  are rearranged in the arrangement areas  250 , by combining the combination symbol arrangements  190  of the terminal displays  101 . Then, a progressive payout is awarded according to a relation among the symbols  180  rearranged. 
     (Formation of Symbol Matrix  185  and Scrolling of Same) 
     Next, the following describes formation of the symbol matrix  185 . In the example illustrated in  FIG. 30 , the respective combination symbol arrangements  190   a  of the terminal displays  101  ( 101 A,  101 B,  101 C) are jointed in the row direction, thereby forming a symbol matrix  185 . Within this symbol matrix  185 , the entire matrix  256  having the arrangement areas  250  scrolls in the row direction so as to variably display symbols  180  on the shared display  102 . 
     Further, in an example illustrated in  FIG. 31 , the respective combination symbol arrangements  190   a  of the terminal displays  101  ( 101 A,  101 B,  101 C) are jointed in the column direction, thereby forming a symbol matrix  185 . Within this symbol matrix  185 , the entire matrix  256  having the arrangement areas  250  scrolls in the column direction so as to variably display symbols  180  on the shared display  102 . 
     Further, a payout is awarded based on a part of the symbols in the symbol matrix formed. This provides a wider variation of payout than the variation of payout awarded based on a fixed symbol matrix of a known art. As such, it is possible to provide a new entertainment characteristic. 
     Further, Then, some of the symbols in the symbol matrix are rearranged on the shared display, without altering the arrangement of the symbol matrix. Therefore an arrangement of symbols rearranged in one gaming terminal stand higher chance of recurring on the shared display. Further, the structure improves the player&#39;s predictability of symbol arrangements on the shared display, and therefore increases the player&#39;s expectation at a time of scrolling the symbols on the shared display. Thus, it is possible to provide a new entertainment characteristic. 
     (Alternative form of Scroll of Symbol Matrix  185 ) 
     Next, the following describes an alternative form of scrolling of the symbol matrix  185 . In an example illustrated in  FIG. 33 , a display window  251  having arrangement areas  250  jointed in the direction of arranging rows scrolls in the row direction in the same column of the symbol matrix  185 . With this scrolling, symbols  180  are variably displayed on the shared display  102 . Note that the display windows  252  to  255  also scroll likewise. 
     When the scrolling of the display window  251  in the symbol matrix  185  stops, the symbols  180  are rearranged in the display window  251  on the shared display  102  so as to conform with a part of the column of the symbol matrix  185 . Note that the display windows  252  to  255  also scroll likewise. 
     In an example illustrated in  FIG. 34 , each of display windows  251   a  to  255   a  having arrangement areas  250  jointed in the direction of arranging columns scrolls in the column direction in a single column of the symbol matrix  185 . With this scrolling, symbols  180  are variably displayed on the shared display  102 . Note that the display windows  251   b  to  255   b  and  251   c  to  255   c  also scroll likewise. 
     When the scrolling of each of the display windows  251   a  to  255   a  in the symbol matrix  185  stops, the symbols  180  are rearranged in each of the display windows  251   a  to  255   a  on the shared display  102  so as to conform with a part of the row of the symbol matrix  185 . 
     Further, since a row or column of the symbol matrix is scrolled on the shared display and some of the symbols in the symbol matrix are rearranged on the shared display so as to conform with a row or column of arrangements in the symbol matrix, an arrangement of symbols in a gaming terminal may be formed on the shared display. This provides a wider variation of payout than the variation of payout awarded based on a conventional fixed symbol matrix. As such, it is possible to provide a new entertainment characteristic. 
     [Operation of Gaming Terminal  3 : Terminal Process Routine] 
     After the terminal side initial setting routine of  FIG. 15 , the main CPU  41  of the gaming terminal  3  performs a terminal process routine of  FIG. 35 . Through this terminal process routine, a game is run. 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 35 , in the terminal process routine, it is determined whether a coin is bet (C1). In this step, it is determined whether a signal from the 1-BET switch  26 S entered by pressing of the 1-BET button  26  is received. Meanwhile, it is determined whether a signal from the maximum BET switch  27 S entered by pressing of the maximum BET button  27  is received. If no coin is BET (C1: NO), C1 is repeated until a coin is bet. 
     On the other hand, if a coin is bet (C1: YES), the credit value stored in the RAM  43  is reduced according to the number of coins bet (C2). When the number of coins bet surpasses the number of coins equivalent to the credit value stored in the RAM  43 , C2 is repeated without the reduction of the credit value. When the number of coins bet exceeds the maximum number of coins bettable one game (50 pieces in this embodiment), the process goes to a later-described step C3 without the reduction of the credit value. 
     Then, it is determined whether a spin button  23  is pressed (C3). If the spin button  23  is not pressed (C3: NO), the process returns to C1. Here, if the spin button  23  is not pressed (for example, the spin button  23  is not pressed but a command to end the game is input), the reduction of the credit value in C2 is canceled. 
     On the other hand, when the spin button  23  is pressed (C3: YES), a progressive transmission process is executed (C4). In other words, a progressive signal indicating a part of the game value bet is transmitted to the center controller  100 . 
     Next executed is a symbol determining process (C5). That is, the stop symbol determining program stored in the RAM  43  is run to determine symbols  180  to be arranged in the matrix  156 . Through this, a symbol combination to be formed along the payline L is determined. 
     Then, the scrolling process is executed to scroll symbols  180  on the terminal display  101  (C6). The scrolling process is a process in which the symbols  180  determined in C5 are stopped (rearranged) in the matrix  156  after scrolling of symbols  180  in a direction indicated by an arrow symbol. 
     Next, the CPU  41  determines whether a shared game is running (C7). If a shared game start signal is received from the center controller  100 , the CPU  41  determines that the shared game is running. If the CPU  41  determines that the shared game is running (C7: YES), a terminal symbol arrangement signal is transmitted to the center controller  100  (C12). The terminal symbol arrangement signal indicates symbols  180  rearranged in the arrangement areas  150  and an arrangement of the symbols  180  (terminal symbol arrangement). Next, the main CPU  41  receives a combination symbol arrangement signal from the center controller  100  (C13). The combination symbol arrangement signal indicates a combination symbol arrangement  190  determined by the center controller  100  based on the terminal symbol arrangement signal resulting from C12. Then, the main CPU  41  displays the frame on the shared display  102  so as to present in the frame the combination symbol arrangement  190  received in C12 (C14). Note that the main CPU  41  may scroll the frame on the terminal display  101 , and stop scrolling the frame so that the frame presents the combination symbol arrangement  190  received in C12. On the other hand in C7, if it is determined that no shared game is running (C7: NO), C8 is executed. 
     Next, it is determined whether symbols  180  rearranged in the matrix  156  form a winning combination (C8). If the symbols  180  forms a winning combination (C8: YES), a payout process is executed (C9). More specifically, when a winning combination is formed, the number of coins according to the combination is calculated. On the other hand in C8, if it is determined that no winning combination is formed (C8: NO), C10 is executed. 
     Next, the main CPU  41  determines whether a progressive award signal is received from the center controller  100  (C10). If the CPU  41  determines that a progressive award signal is received (C10: YES), a payout is awarded according to the progressive award signal (C11). The process then returns to C1. On the other hand in C10, if the CPU  41  determines that no progressive award signal is received (C10: NO), the process returns to C1. 
     [Operation of Center Controller  100 : Center Process Routine] 
     After the center side initial setting routine of  FIG. 15 , the main CPU  241  of the center controller  100  executes a center process routine of  FIG. 36 . The main CPU  241  performs the center process routine to run a shared game. 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 36 , in the center process routine, the main CPU  241  determines whether a progressive signal is received from a gaming terminal  3  (D1). If the main CPU  241  determines that a progressive signal is received (D1: YES), a game value indicated by the progressive signal is stored and summed (D2). The process then returns to D1. 
     On the other hand in D1, if the main CPU  241  determines no progressive signal is received (D1: NO), the main CPU  241  determines if the progressive value equals or surpasses a predetermined value (D3). If the main CPU  241  determines that the progressive value is less than the predetermined value (D3: NO), the process returns to D1. On the other hand, if the main CPU  241  determines that the progressive value equals or surpasses the predetermined value (D3: YES), a shared game start signal is output to each of the gaming terminals  3  (D4). Next, a terminal symbol arrangement signal is received from each of the gaming terminals  3  (D5). Based on the terminal symbol arrangement signal, a combination symbol arrangement  190  is determined. The combination symbol arrangement  190  thus determined is sent back to the gaming terminals  3  (D6). Next, formation of one symbol matrix  185  is attempted, based on the combination symbol arrangements  190  determined (D7). 
     Next, the main CPU  241  determines whether the formation of the one symbol matrix  185  in D7 was successful (D8). If the main CPU  241  determines that the formation of the symbol matrix  185  was not successful (D8: NO), the process returns to D5. On the other hand, if the main CPU  241  determines that the formation of the one symbol matrix  185  was successful (D8: YES), the main CPU  241  determines an arrangement of symbols  180  to be arranged in the arrangement areas  250  of the shared display  102 , based on the symbol matrix  185  thus formed (D9). Next, the main CPU  241  causes the shared display  102  to start scrolling symbols  180 . Then, the scrolling of the symbols  180  on the shared display  102  is stopped to present the arrangement determined (D10). 
     Then, the main CPU  241  determines whether the symbols  180  arranged on the shared display  102  forms a winning combination (D11). If the main CPU  241  determines that no winning combination is formed (D11: NO), the process returns to D1. On the other hand, if the main CPU  241  determines that a winning combination is formed (D11: YES), a progressive award process for awarding a progressive payout is executed to transmit a progressive award signal to a targeted gaming terminal  3  (D12) Then, a progressive value consumed is subtracted from the value stored in RAM  243  (D13), and the process returns to D1. 
     As is already mentioned, a payout awarded according to a relation among the symbols  180  rearranged on the shared display  102  realizes a new entertainment characteristic which raises player&#39;s expectation for another payout in addition to the one awarded as a result of the game run in the gaming terminal. 
     Further, the above structure creates a single game involving a plurality of gaming terminals by forming one symbol matrix including a combination of one arrangement of symbols rearranged in arrangement areas of one gaming terminal and another arrangement of symbols rearranged in arrangement areas of another gaming terminal. This realizes a new entertainment characteristic which gives the feelings of “unity” and “sharing” to participating players. 
     Further, a payout is awarded based on a part of the symbols in the symbol matrix formed. This provides a wider variation of payout than the variation of payout awarded based on a fixed symbol matrix of a known art. As such, it is possible to provide a new entertainment characteristic. 
     Further, Then, some of the symbols in the symbol matrix are rearranged on the shared display, without altering the arrangement of the symbol matrix. Therefore an arrangement of symbols rearranged in one gaming terminal stand higher chance of recurring on the shared display. Further, the structure improves the player&#39;s predictability of symbol arrangements on the shared display, and therefore increases the player&#39;s expectation at a time of scrolling the symbols on the shared display. Thus, it is possible to provide a new entertainment characteristic. 
     Further, since a row or column of the symbol matrix is scrolled on the shared display and some of the symbols in the symbol matrix are rearranged on the shared display so as to conform with a row or column of arrangements in the symbol matrix, an arrangement of symbols in a gaming terminal may be formed on the shared display. This provides a wider variation of payout than the variation of payout awarded based on a conventional fixed symbol matrix. As such, it is possible to provide a new entertainment characteristic. 
     Note that the present embodiment deals with a case where the center controller  100  determines a combination symbol arrangement based on a terminal symbol arrangement. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, it may be the terminal controller  110  which determines a combination symbol arrangement based on a terminal symbol arrangement. 
     Note further that the number of gaming terminals  3  is three in the present embodiment. However, the present invention is not limited to this, provided that at least two gaming terminals  3  are provided. 
     The detailed description of the present invention provided hereinabove mainly focused on characteristics thereof for the purpose of easier understanding; however, the scope of the present invention shall be construed as broadly as possible, encompassing various forms of other possible embodiments, and therefore the present invention shall not be limited to the above description. Further, the terms and phraseology used in the present specification are adopted solely to provide specific illustration of the present invention, and in no case should the scope of the present invention be limited by such terms and phraseology. Further, it will be obvious for those skilled in the art that the other structures, systems, methods or the like are possible, within the spirit of the invention described in the present specification. The description of claims therefore shall encompass structures equivalent to the present invention, unless otherwise such structures are regarded as to depart from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Further, the abstract is provided to allow, through a simple investigation, quick analysis of the technical features and essences of the present invention by an intellectual property office, a general public institution, or one skilled in the art who is not fully familiarized with patent and legal or professional terminology. It is therefore not an intention of the abstract to limit the scope of the present invention which shall be construed on the basis of the description of the claims. To fully understand the object and effects of the present invention, it is strongly encouraged to sufficiently refer to disclosures of documents already made available. 
     The detailed description of the present invention provided hereinabove includes a process executed on a computer or computer network. The above descriptions and expressions are provided to allow the one skilled in the art to most efficiently understand the present invention. A process performed in or by respective steps yielding one result or blocks with a predetermined processing function described in the present specification shall be understood as a process with no self-contradiction. Further, the electrical or magnetic signal is transmitted/received and written in the respective steps or blocks. It should be noted that such a signal is expressed in the form of bit, value, symbol, text, terms, number, or the like solely for the sake of convenience. Although the present specification occasionally personifies the processes performed in the steps or blocks, these processes are essentially executed by various devices. Further, the other structures necessary for the steps or blocks are obvious from the above descriptions. 
     Fourth Embodiment 
     The following describes a fourth embodiment of a gaming machine and a playing method thereof according to the present invention. Note that reference numbers and symbols given to members and steps of flowcharts are only applicable to those described within the present embodiment, and do not represent the members or the steps of the other embodiments. 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 37 , a gaming machine  1  realizes a playing method including the steps of: causing a bet unit  109  to receive a side bet; differentiating between how the illumination device  130  lights when a side bet is received and when no side bet is received; for each of gaming terminals  3 , rearranging symbols  180  in arrangement areas  150 , based on running of a game; awarding a payout according to a relation among symbols  180  rearranged in the arrangement areas  150 ; combining one symbol arrangement  190  of one gaming terminal  3  with another symbol arrangement  190  of another gaming terminal, and rearranging, on the shared display  102 , symbols  180  identical to those in the one symbol arrangement  190  and the other symbol arrangement  190 , wherein (i) the one symbol arrangement  190  include the symbols  180  arranged in arrangement areas  150  of the one gaming terminal  3 , and the other symbol arrangement  190  includes the symbols  180  arranged in arrangement areas  150  of the other gaming terminal  3 , and (ii) when combining symbol arrangements  190 , a symbol arrangement of a side-bet gaming terminal  3  is given a priority; and causing a payout awarding device  125  of a side-bet gaming terminal  3 , to award a payout according to a relation among the symbols  180  rearranged on the shared display  102 . 
     The “arranging” in this specification means a state where the symbols  180  can be visually observed by a player. That is, the wording means a state where the symbols  180  are displayed in the arrangement areas  150 , in  FIG. 37 . Arranging the symbols  180  again after dismissing the symbols  180  is referred to as “rearranging”. 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 37 , the arrangement areas  150  are areas of a terminal display  101  where symbols  180  are arranged. The arrangement areas  150  form display windows  151  to  155  as illustrated in  FIG. 37 . For example, arrangement areas  151   a,    151   b,  and  151   c  form the display window  151 . Further, the display windows  151  to  155  form a matrix  156 . The matrix  156 , in other words, is formed with the plurality of arrangement areas  150  arranged in a matrix. 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 40 , arrangement areas  250  are areas of the shared display  102  where symbols  180  are arranged. The arrangement areas  150  form display windows  251  to  255  as illustrated in  FIG. 40 . For example, the arrangement areas  255   a,    255   b,  and  255   c  form the display window  255 . Further, the display windows  251  to  255  form a matrix  256 . The matrix  256 , in other words, is formed with the plurality of arrangement areas  250  arranged in a matrix. 
     Further, “scatter symbols” are such symbols which provide advantages to a player when a predetermined number or more of them are displayed in the matrix  156 . For example, the advantages includes: a state where coins corresponding to the scatter symbols are paid out, a state where the number of coins to be paid out is added to a credit, a state where a bonus game is started. 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 38 , the gaming machine  1  which executes the playing method has the shared display  102 , a center controller  100 , and gaming terminals  3 . Each of the gaming terminals  3  includes a terminal display  101 , a terminal controller  110 , a payout awarding device  125 , a bet unit  109 , and an illumination device  130 . 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 39 , the terminal display  101  has the arrangement areas  150 , and symbols  180  are arranged in the arrangement areas  150 . 
     The terminal display  101  may have a mechanical structure adopting a reel device which rotates a reel to arrange the symbols  180 . Alternatively, the terminal display  101  may have an electric structure in which a video reel is displayed as an image and symbols  180  on a video reel are arranged in the form of an image. Further, the terminal display  101  may adopt a combination of the mechanical structure (reel) and the electrical structure (video reel). Examples of the electrical structure include a liquid crystal display device, a CRT (cathode-ray tube), a plasma display device, or the like. Further, the number of arrangement areas  150  is not limited. A specific structure of the terminal display  101  will be detailed later. 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 40 , the shared display  102  has the arrangement areas  250 , and symbols  180  are arranged in the arrangement areas  250 . This shared display  102  displays a progressive jackpot value  200  as illustrated in  FIG. 40 . A specific structure of the terminal display  101  will be detailed later. 
     The payout awarding device  125  is a later-mentioned hopper  66  in this embodiment. The hopper  66  awards a player a payout related to a game by paying out coins. Note that the present embodiment deals with a case where the payout awarding device  125  is a hopper  66  which pays out coins. However, the present invention is not limited to this, as long as the device awards a player a payout related to a game. For example, a magnetic card storing therein a value related to a game is possible. 
     (Terminal Controller  110 ) 
     The terminal controller  110  executes: a first process of causing the bet unit  109  to receive a side bet; a second process of differentiating between how the illumination device  130  lights when a side bet is received and when no side bet is received; a third process of rearranging symbols  180  in arrangement areas  150  at a predetermined timing; a fourth process of awarding a payout according to a relation among the symbols  180  rearranged in the arrangement areas  180 ; a fifth process of, when a predetermined condition is met, transmitting information of symbols  180  rearranged in the arrangement areas  150  and an arrangement of the rearranged symbols  180  to the center controller  100 ; and a sixth process of causing the payout awarding device  125  to award a payout based on an instruction from the center controller  100 . In other words, the terminal controller  110  has a first processing unit, a second processing unit, a third processing unit, and a fourth processing unit, a fifth processing unit, and a sixth processing unit. 
     The terminal controller  110  is connected to the center controller  100  and is in communication with the center controller  100 . 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 38 , the terminal controller  110  is connected to a game starting unit  111 . The game starting unit  111  has a function of outputting a game start signal, in response to an operation by the player. The game start signal output is then input to a later-described game running unit  112 . 
     Further, the terminal controller  110  is connected to a bet unit  109 . The bet unit  109  has functions of receiving a bet entered through an operation by the player, and outputting a bet signal in response to the bet entered. The bet signal output is input to a later-described game running unit  112 . 
     Further, the bet unit  109  has functions of, under control of the terminal controller  110 , receiving a side bet from a player and outputting a side bet signal. The outputted side bet signal is inputted into later-described game running unit  112 , illumination control unit  131 , and center controller  100 . 
     The terminal controller  110  includes: a game running unit  112 , a rearrangement symbol determining unit  113 , a terminal display control unit  114 , and a payout award control unit  124 . The game running unit  112  runs a base game, triggered by a game start signal from the game starting unit  111 . In the base game, symbols  180  are rearranged in the arrangement areas  150  of the terminal display  101 . Further, the terminal controller  110  outputs a progressive signal, triggered by the game start signal. The progressive signal is a signal indicating a game value. 
     The rearrangement symbol determining unit  113  determines, based on the state of game run by the game running unit  112  and whether or not a side bet is placed in the bet unit  109 , a plurality of symbols  180  to be rearranged in the arrangement areas  150  and an arrangement of the symbols  180  (hereinafter, terminal symbol arrangement). The terminal controller  110  then transmits information of the terminal symbol arrangement to the center controller  100 , through a control performed by the game running unit  112 . 
     The terminal display control unit  114  displays the symbols  180  on the terminal display  101  under control of the game running unit  112  and on the basis of a determination of the rearrangement symbol determining unit  113 . A detailed display state will be detailed later. 
     Further, the terminal controller  110  includes a not-shown payout award determining unit. The payout award determining unit determines whether to award a payout, based on a relation among the symbols  180  rearranged in the arrangement areas  150  of the terminal display  101 . The payout award control unit  124  causes the payout awarding device  125  to award a payout, based on a determination of the payout award determining unit and an instruction from the center controller  100 . 
     The illumination control unit  131  controls lighting states of the illumination device  130 , by lighting the illumination device  130  in a predetermined color, or turning off the illumination device  130 . The illumination control unit  131  is accessible to the bet unit  109  and the combination symbol determining unit  119 . The illumination control unit  131  causes the illumination device  130  to light in a predetermined color upon receiving a side bet signal from the bet unit  109 . Further, the illumination control unit  131  lights the illumination device  130  in a predetermined color upon receiving a combination symbol arrangement signal from the combination symbol determining unit  119 . 
     Meanwhile, each block of the terminal controller  110  may be realized with hardware or with software as needed. 
     (Operation of Terminal Controller  110 ) 
     The following describes an operation of the terminal controller  100  in the above structure. First, the bet unit  109  receives a BET entered through an operation by a player. Then, in response to the operation, the game starting unit  111  outputs a game start signal to cause the game running unit  112  to start a base game. When the base game is started, the rearrangement symbol determining unit  113  determines symbols  180  to be rearranged in the arrangement areas  150  and an arrangement of the symbols  180  (terminal symbol arrangement). The symbols  180  to be rearranged and the terminal symbol arrangement are determined at every base game. The symbols  180  determined by the rearrangement symbol determining unit  113  undergo an image processing in the terminal display control unit  114 , and are displayed on the terminal display  101 . The terminal display control unit  114  rearranges the symbols  180  in the arrangement areas  150 , according to the arrangement determined. Thus, the terminal controller  110  executes the third process of rearranging symbols  180  in the arrangement areas  150  at a predetermined timing. 
     Further, a not-shown payout determining unit determines whether to award a payout according to a relation among the symbols  180  rearranged in the arrangement areas  150 . When the payout determining unit determines to award a payout, the payout award control unit  124  causes the payout awarding device  125  to award a payout. Thus, the terminal controller  110  executes the fourth process of awarding a payout according to a relation among the symbols  180  rearranged in the arrangement areas  150 . 
     Further, the terminal controller  110  transmits, to the center controller  100 , symbols  180  determined by the rearrangement symbol determining unit  113  and an arrangement of the symbols  180 , based on a predetermined condition. An example of such a condition is a shared game being run, or the like condition. Thus, the terminal controller  110  executes the fifth process of, when a predetermined condition is met, transmitting symbols  180  determined and an arrangement of the symbols  180  to the center controller  100 . 
     When receiving a later-described shared game start signal from the center controller  100 ; i.e., when a shared game is started, the terminal controller  110  executes the first process of causing the bet unit  109  to receive a side bet from a player. 
     Upon receiving a side bet from a player, the bet unit  109  outputs a side bet signal. The side bet signal output is input into the illumination control unit  131 . When the side bet signal is input, the illumination control unit  131  lights the illumination device  130  in a predetermined color. Thus, the terminal display  101  executes the second process of differentiating between how the illumination device  130  lights when a side bet is received and when no side bet is received. 
     Note that the first and second processes, and the third, fourth and fifth processes are executed in parallel. 
     Further, the payout award control unit  124  causes the payout awarding device  125  to award a progressive payout based on an instruction from the center controller  100 . Thus, the terminal controller  110  executes the sixth process of causing the payout awarding device  125  to award a payout based on an instruction from the center controller  100 . 
     (Center Controller  100 ) 
     The center controller  100  executes: a seventh process of, when the predetermined condition is met, receiving symbols  180  and an arrangement of the symbols  180  from one or more terminal controllers  110 ; an eighth process of, combining one symbol arrangement  190  of one gaming terminal  3  with another symbol arrangement  190  of another gaming terminal, and rearranging, on the shared display  102 , symbols  180  identical to those in the one symbol arrangement  190  and the other symbol arrangement  190 , wherein (i) the one symbol arrangement  190  include the symbols  180  arranged in arrangement areas  150  of the one gaming terminal  3 , and the other symbol arrangement  190  includes the symbols  180  arranged in arrangement areas  150  of the other gaming terminal  3 , and (ii) when combining symbol arrangements  190 , a symbol arrangement of a side-bet gaming terminal  3  is given a priority; a ninth process of instructing the terminal controller  110  of the side-bet gaming terminal  3  to award a payout, according to a relation among the symbols  180  rearranged on the shared display  102 . In other words, the center controller  100  includes a seventh processing unit, an eighth processing unit, and a ninth processing unit. 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 38 , the center controller  100  is connected to the terminal controller  110  and is in communication with the terminal controller  110 . 
     The center controller  100  includes: a progressive storage unit  115 , a shared game starting unit  116 , a shared game running unit  117 , a rearrangement symbol determining unit  118 , a combination symbol determining unit  119 , a shared display control unit  120 , and a payout determining unit  121 . 
     The progressive storage unit  115  stores and sums up a game value indicated by a progressive signal received from the terminal controller  110 . The shared game starting unit  116  outputs a shared game start signal, when the predetermined condition is met. The shared game start signal output is input to a later-mentioned shared game running unit  117 . For example, meeting the predetermined situation means a situation where a game value stored in the progressive storage unit  115  sums up to a predetermined value or greater. 
     The shared game running unit  117  runs a shared game, triggered by the shared game start signal received from the shared game starting unit  116 . In the shared game, symbols  180  are rearranged in the arrangement areas  250  of the shared display  102 . 
     The combination symbol determining unit  119  receives information of a terminal symbol arrangement from each of two or more terminal controllers  110 . Based on the information of the terminal symbol arrangement received, the combination symbol determining unit  119  selects symbols  180  and determines an arrangement of the symbols  180  (hereinafter, combination symbol arrangement  190 ). In other words, the combination symbol arrangement  190  determines at least two combination symbol arrangements  190 . 
     The rearrangement symbol determining unit  118  determines symbols  180  to be rearranged in the arrangement areas  250  and an arrangement of the symbols  180 , by combining the at least two combination symbol arrangements  190 . In combining combination symbol arrangements  190 , the rearrangement symbol determining unit  118  gives a priority to a combination symbol arrangement  190  rearranged in a side-bet gaming terminal  3 . That is, the rearrangement symbol determining unit  118  determines the symbols  180  to be rearranged in the arrangement areas  250  and the arrangement of the symbols  180  only with the combination symbol arrangement  190  rearranged in a side-bet gaming terminal  3 . Then, if the combination symbol arrangement  190  of the side-bet gaming terminal  3  falls short, the rearrangement symbol determining unit  118  determines symbols  180  to be rearranged in the arrangement areas  250  and an arrangement of the symbols  180  by adopting a combination symbol arrangement  190  of a gaming terminal  3  having received no side bet. 
     The shared display control unit  120  displays the symbols  180  on the shared display  102  under control of the shared game running unit  117  and on the basis of a determination of the rearrangement symbol determining unit  118 . A detailed display state will be detailed later. 
     Further, when a later-described payout determining unit  121  determines to award a progressive payout, the shared display control unit  120  displays effects  195  and  196  indicating that the progressive payout is awarded on the shared display. 
     The payout determining unit  121  determines whether to award a progressive payout based on a relation among the symbols  180  rearranged in the arrangement areas  250  of the shared display  102 . Based on a side bet signal output from the bet unit  109 , the payout determining unit  121  outputs an instruction to award a progressive payout to the terminal controller  110  of a side-bet gaming terminal. 
     Meanwhile, each block of the center controller  100  may be realized with hardware or with software as needed. 
     (Operation of Center Controller  100 ) 
     The following describes an operation of the center controller  100  in the above structure. First, the game value is stored and summed in the progressive storage unit  115 . A shared game starts when the stored game value sums up to a predetermined value or greater. The combination symbol determining unit  119 , during the shared game, receives information of a terminal symbol arrangement from the terminal controller  110 . Thus, the center controller  100  executes the fifth process of receiving, when a predetermined condition is met, symbols  180  and arrangements thereof (terminal symbol arrangements) from the terminal controllers  110 . 
     The combination symbol determining unit  119  determines at least two combination symbol arrangements  190  based on the terminal symbol arrangement received. Further, the combination symbol determining unit  119  may determine the at least two combination symbol arrangements  190  based on symbols  180  and arrangement thereof in different positions of the arrangement areas  150 . Further, the combination symbol determining unit  119  may determine the at least two combination symbol arrangements  190  on the row or column basis. 
     The rearrangement symbol determining unit  118  determines symbols  180  to be rearranged in the arrangement areas  250 , and an arrangement of the symbols  180 . The combination is determined by combining at least two combination symbol arrangements  190  while giving a priority to the combination symbol arrangement  190  and the symbols rearranged in a side-bet gaming terminal  3 . 
     The symbols determined by the rearrangement symbol determining unit  118  undergo image processing performed on the shared display control unit  120 , and are displayed on the shared display  102 . According to the arrangement thus determined, the shared display control unit  120  rearranges the symbols  180  in the arrangement areas  250 . Thus, the center controller  100  executes the eighth process of combining one symbol arrangement  190  of one gaming terminal  3  with another symbol arrangement  190  of another gaming terminal  3 , and rearranging, on the shared display  102 , symbols  180  identical to those in the one symbol arrangement  190  and the other symbol arrangement  190 , wherein the one symbol arrangement  190  includes the symbols  180  arranged in arrangement areas  150  of the one gaming terminal  3 , and the other symbol arrangement  190  includes the symbols  180  arranged in arrangement areas  150  of the other gaming terminal  3 . 
     The payout determining unit  121  determines whether to award a progressive payout, according to a relation of the symbols  180  rearranged in the arrangement areas  250 . Based on a side bet signal output from the bet unit  109 , the payout determining unit  121  outputs an instruction to the terminal controller  110  of a side-bet gaming terminal  3 , to award a progressive payout. Thus, the center controller  100  executes the ninth process of instructing the terminal controller  110  of the side-bet gaming terminal  3  to award a payout, according to a relation among the symbols  180  rearranged on the shared display  102 . 
     The above can be rephrased as follows. The center controller  100  causes the terminal controllers  110  to perform the first process so as to execute a tenth process of rearranging symbols  180  in the arrangement areas  150  based on running of a game in the gaming terminals  3 . 
     As is obvious from the above operation, gaming machine  1  realizes a playing method including the steps of: causing the bet unit  109  to receive a side bet; differentiating between how the illumination device  130  lights when a side bet is received and when no side bet is received; rearranging symbols  180  in the arrangement areas  150  at a predetermined timing; awarding a payout according to a relation among symbols  180  rearranged in the arrangement areas  150 ; when a predetermined condition is met, transmitting to the center controller  100 , information on symbols  180  rearranged in the arrangement areas  150 , and an arrangement of the symbols  180 ; when a predetermined condition is met, receiving the symbols  180  and an arrangement of the symbols  180  from each terminal controller  110 ; combining one symbol arrangement  190  of one gaming terminal  3  with another symbol arrangement  190  of another gaming terminal  3 , and rearranging, on the shared display  102 , symbols  180  identical to those in the one symbol arrangement  190  and the other symbol arrangement  190 , wherein the one symbol arrangement  190  includes the symbols  180  arranged in arrangement areas  150  of the one gaming terminal  3 , and the other symbol arrangement  190  includes the symbols  180  arranged in arrangement areas  150  of the other gaming terminal  3 ; instructing the terminal controller  110  of a side-bet gaming terminal  3  to award a payout, according to a relationship among the symbols  180  rearranged on the shared display  102 ; and causing the payout awarding device  125  to award a payout based on an instruction from the center controller  100 . 
     This can be rephrased as follows. The gaming machine  1  realizes a playing method including the steps of: causing the bet unit to receive a side bet; differentiating between how the illumination device  130  lights when a side bet is received and when no side bet is received; for each of the gaming terminals  3 , rearranging symbols  180  in the arrangement areas  150 , based on running of a game; awarding a payout according to a relation among the symbols  180  rearranged in the arrangement areas  150 ; combining one symbol arrangement  190  of one gaming terminal  3  with another symbol arrangement  190  of another gaming terminal  3 , and rearranging, on the shared display  102 , symbols  180  identical to those in the one symbol arrangement  190  and the other symbol arrangement  190 , wherein the one symbol arrangement  190  includes the symbols  180  arranged in arrangement areas  150  of the one gaming terminal  3 , and the other symbol arrangement  190  includes the symbols  180  arranged in arrangement areas  150  of the other gaming terminal  3 ; causing the payout awarding device  125  of a side-bet gaming terminal  3  to award a payout, according to a relation among symbols  180  rearranged on the shared display  102 . 
     According to the playing methods, a side bet is received by the bet unit symbols are arranged at a predetermined timing in the arrangement areas on a terminal display of a gaming terminal. Then, a payout is awarded according to the symbols rearranged in the arrangement areas. When a predetermined condition is met, one symbol arrangement of one gaming terminal is combined with symbols identical to those in another symbol arrangement of another gaming terminal while giving a priority to a symbol arrangement of a side-bet gaming terminal, wherein the one symbol arrangement includes the symbols arranged in arrangement areas of the one gaming terminal, and the other symbol arrangement includes the symbols arranged in arrangement areas of the other gaming terminal. Then, the combination of symbol arrangements formed is rearranged on the shared display. A payout is awarded through a side-bet gaming terminal, according to a relation among the symbols rearranged on the shared display. This payout awarded through according to the relation among the symbols rearranged on the shared display realizes a new entertainment characteristic which raises player&#39;s expectation for another payout awarded in addition to the one awarded as a result of the game run in the gaming terminal. Further, one symbol arrangement of one gaming terminal is combined with symbols identical to those in another symbol arrangement of the terminal display while giving a priority to a symbol arrangement of a side-bet gaming terminal, wherein the one symbol arrangement includes the symbols arranged in arrangement areas of the one gaming terminal, and the other symbol arrangement includes the symbols arranged in arrangement areas of the other gaming terminal. Then, the combination of symbol arrangements formed is rearranged on the shared display. Thus, one game is formed with the side-bet gaming terminal. This realizes a new entertainment characteristic which gives the feelings of “unity” and “sharing” to participating players. Further, the payout awarding device of a side-bet gaming terminal awards a payout. Thus, a player is given an incentive to place a side bet. This realizes a new entertainment characteristic. Further, the illumination device lights up differently according to (depending on) whether a side bet is received. Also, the player is able to visually recognize how the illumination device of the gaming terminal light, through which gaming terminal a payout is awarded based on symbols rearranged on the shared display. Thus, the player is given an incentive to place a side bet. This realizes a new entertainment characteristic. 
     (Display State of Terminal Display  101 ) 
     The following details an exemplary display state of the terminal display  101  during the operations of the gaming machine  1  and the playing method thereof. Note that the following example deals with a case where the terminal display  101  adopts a video reel and arranges symbols on a video reel in the form of an image, as illustrated in  FIG. 39 . 
     As illustrated in the upper left of  FIG. 39 , the terminal display  101  displays an effect  196  to encourage the player to place a side bet upon starting a shared game. 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 39 , a matrix  156  is in the center of the terminal display  101 . The matrix  156  includes a symbol column having symbols  180 , which is scrolled as illustrated in the upper right of  FIG. 39 . The display windows  151  to  155  are respectively divided into upper stages  151   a  to  155   a,  central stages  151   b  to  155   b,  and lower stages  151   c  to  155   c.  The symbols  180  are stopped (arranged) in the stages  151   a  to  155   a,    151   b  to  155   b,  and  151   c  to  155   c,  respectively. For example, in  FIG. 39 , “DIAMOND” is stopped in  151   a  of the upper stage of the display window  151 , “7” is stopped in  152   b  of the central stage of the display window  152  and “DIAMOND” is stopped in  153   c  of the lower stage of the display window  153 . In short, the matrix  156  is a symbol matrix including five columns/three rows. The matrix  156  however is not limited to the one with the five-columns/three-rows. 
     As is illustrated in the upper right of  FIG. 39 , the terminal display  101  variably displays symbols  180  when a base game is started in the gaming terminal  3 . When this variable-displaying of symbols  180  stops, symbols  180  are rearranged in the arrangement areas  150 , as illustrated in middle left of  FIG. 39 . Then, a payout according to a relation among the symbols  180  is awarded. 
     A frame including a part of the symbols  180  thus rearranged is variably displayed. Then, symbols  180  and an arrangement thereof within the frame, at the time of stopping the variable-displaying, are determined as a combination symbol arrangement  190 . Specifically, in the example shown in the middle right of  FIG. 39 , a combination symbol arrangement  190   a  is an arrangement of symbols  180  rearranged in those arrangement areas  151   a  to  155   a  within the frame. Further, in the example shown in the lower left of  FIG. 39 , a combination symbol arrangement  190   b  is an arrangement of symbols  180  rearranged in those arrangement areas  151   b  to  155   b  within the frame. Further, in the example shown in the lower right of  FIG. 39 , a combination symbol arrangement  190   c  is an arrangement of symbols  180  rearranged in those arrangement areas  151   c  to  155   c  within the frame. 
     (Display State of Shared Display  102 ) 
     The following details an exemplary display state of the shared display  102  during the operations of the gaming machine  1  and the playing method thereof. Note that the following example deals with a case where the shared display  102  adopts a video reel and arranges symbols on a video reel in the form of an image, as illustrated in  FIG. 40 . 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 40 , a matrix  256  is in the center of the shared display  102 . The matrix  256  includes a symbol column having symbols  180 , which is scrolled as illustrated in the upper view of  FIG. 40 . The display windows  251  to  255  are divided into upper stages  251   a  to  255   a,  central stages  251   b  to  255   b,  and lower stages  251   c  to  255   c.  The symbols  180  are stopped (arranged) in the stages  251   a  to  255   a,    251   b  to  255   b,  and  251   c  to  255   c,  respectively. In short, the matrix  256  is a symbol matrix including five columns/three rows. The matrix  256  however is not limited to the one with the five-columns/three-rows. 
     This shared display  102  displays at its lower part a progressive jackpot value  200  as illustrated in  FIG. 40 . The progressive jackpot value  200  is the sum of game values having been accumulated. In  FIG. 40  for example, the progressive jackpot value  200  is 1,929.38 dollars. 
     As is illustrated in the upper view of  FIG. 40 , the shared display  102  variably displays symbols  180  when a shared game is started. When this variable-displaying of symbols  180  stops, symbols  180  are rearranged in the arrangement areas  250 , as illustrated in  FIG. 40 . Symbols  180  are rearranged in the arrangement areas  250 , by combining combination symbol arrangement  190  of each of the terminal displays  101 , giving a priority to symbols rearranged and an arrangement of symbols of a side-bet gaming terminal. Then, whether to award a progressive payout is determined according to a relation among the symbols  180  rearranged. When the progressive payout is determined to be awarded, on the shared display  102  is displayed an effect  195  indicating that the progressive payout is awarded, as is illustrated in the lower view of  FIG. 40 . The effect  195  is a message image of “You won Progressive Payout”. Then, a progressive payout is awarded through a side-bet gaming terminal  3 . Meanwhile, no progressive payout is awarded through a gaming terminal  3  having received no side bet. 
     Thus, an effect indicating that a payout is awarded, is displayed on the shared display when it is determined to award a payout. This enables a player to more clearly expect a payout based on symbols arranged on the shared display. Thus, a new entertainment characteristic is realized. 
     Further, a payout is awarded by the payout awarding device of a side-bet gaming terminal. Thus, a player is given an incentive to place a side bet. This realizes a new entertainment characteristic. 
     (Combination Patterns of Combination Symbol Arrangement  190 ) 
     Next, the following describes patterns of combinations of combination symbol arrangements  190 , based on whether or not a side bet is received. 
     In an example illustrated in  FIG. 41 , a combination symbol arrangement in the terminal display  101  ( 101 A) of the gaming terminal  3  numbered  1 , is determined as a combination symbol arrangement  190 c. Further, a combination symbol arrangement in the terminal display  101  ( 101 B) of the gaming terminal  3  numbered  2 , is determined as a combination symbol arrangement  190   b.  Further, a combination symbol arrangement in the terminal display  101  ( 101 C) of the gaming terminal  3  numbered  3  is determined as a combination symbol arrangement  190   a.  A side bet is placed in each of the two gaming terminals  3  numbered land  2 . No side bet is placed in the gaming terminal  3  numbered  3 . Further, three gaming terminals  3  are provided in this embodiment. In this case, three combination symbol arrangements  190  are necessary for determining symbols  180  to be rearranged on the shared display  102 , and an arrangement of the symbols  180 . Hence, the combination symbol arrangements  190  in all of the gaming terminals  3  are adopted, regardless of whether a side bet is placed in the gaming terminals  3 . That is, when it is not possible to determine symbols  180  to be rearranged on the shared display  102  only with the combination symbol arrangements  190  of side-bet gaming terminals  3 , a combination symbol arrangement  190  of a gaming terminal  3  having received no side bet is also adopted. 
     In an example illustrated in  FIG. 42 , a combination symbol arrangement in the terminal display  101  ( 101 A) of the gaming terminal  3  numbered  1 , is determined as a combination symbol arrangement  190   c.  Further, a combination symbol arrangement in the terminal display  101  ( 101 B) of the gaming terminal  3  numbered  2 , is determined as a combination symbol arrangement  190   a.  Further, a combination symbol arrangement in the terminal display  101  ( 101 C) of the gaming terminal  3  numbered  3  is determined as a combination symbol arrangement  190   a.  A side bet is placed in each of the three gaming terminals  3  numbered  1 ,  2 , and  3 . No side bet is placed in the gaming terminal  3  numbered  4 . Further, four gaming terminals  3  are provided in this embodiment. In this case, three combination symbol arrangements  190  are necessary for determining symbols  180  to be rearranged on the shared display  102  and an arrangement of the symbols  180 . Thus, only the combination symbol arrangements  190  in the side-bet gaming terminals  3  are adopted. That is, a combination symbol arrangement  190  of a gaming terminal  3  having received no side bet is not adopted, when it is possible to determine symbols  180  to be rearranged on the shared display  102  and an arrangement of the symbols  180 , only with the combination symbol arrangements  190  of the side-bet gaming terminal  3 . 
     Thus, a combination symbol arrangement  190  of a side-bet gaming terminal  3  is given a priority over a combination symbol arrangement  190  of a gaming terminal  3  having received no side bet. 
     Further, as is the case of the combination symbol arrangements  190   a,    190   b,  and  190   c  illustrated in  FIG. 41 , each combination symbol arrangement  190  is determined based on symbols  180  and an arrangement thereof in the arrangement areas  150  in different positions. However, the combination symbol arrangement  190  may be determined based on symbols  180  and an arrangement thereof in the arrangement areas  150  in the same positions, as is the case of the combination symbol arrangements  190   a  and  190   c  illustrated in  FIG. 42 . Further, determining the combination symbol arrangements  190  based on symbols  180  rearranged in the arrangement areas  150  in different positions and arrangements of the symbols  180  allows players to easily understand how rearranged symbols  180  on the terminal displays  101  are combined and rearranged on the shared display  102 . This enhances the feelings of “unity” and “sharing” among participating players. 
     (Lighting States of Illumination Device  130 ) 
     The following describes lighting states of the illumination device  130 . The illumination device  130  is a lamp  30  and an upper image display panel  33  in this embodiment. 
       FIG. 43A  is an explanatory diagram illustrating how the illumination device  130  lights according to whether or not a side bet is received. The gaming machine includes four gaming terminals  3 . A side bet is placed in each of three gaming terminals  3 . The three gaming terminals  3  are numbered  1 ,  2 , and  3 , respectively. The illumination devices  130  of the gaming terminals  3  numbered  1 ,  2 , and  3  are lighting in red. Meanwhile, no side bet is placed in the other gaming terminal  3  numbered  4 . The illumination device of the gaming terminal  3  numbered  4  is not emitting light. In other words, the light illumination device  130  lights when a side bet is received, and does not light when no side bet is received. 
     Thus, the illumination device  130  lights when a side bet is received. Also, a player is able to visually recognize how the illumination device  130  of a gaming terminal  3  lights up, through which gaming terminal  3  a payout based on symbols  180  rearranged on the shared display  102 . Thus, a player is given an incentive to place a side bet. This realizes a new entertainment characteristic. 
       FIG. 43B  is an explanatory diagram illustrating how the illumination device  130  lights according to whether or not a side bet is received, and whether or not a symbol arrangement is adopted. As is illustrated in  FIG. 43A , three gaming terminals  3  are provided in the example of  FIG. 43B . A side bet is placed in each gaming terminals numbered  1  and  2 . The combination symbol arrangements  190  of the gaming terminals  3  are adopted as symbols  180  to be rearranged on the shared display  102 . Although no side bet is placed in the gaming terminal numbered  3 , the combination symbol arrangement  190  of the gaming terminal  3  is adopted as symbols  180  to be rearranged on the shared display  102 . No side bet is placed in the gaming terminal numbered  4 , and the combination symbol arrangement  190  of the gaming terminal  3  is not adopted as symbols  180  to be rearranged on the shared display  102 . In this case, the illumination devices  130  of the gaming terminals  3  numbered  1  and  2  are lighting in red. The illumination device  130  of the gaming terminal  3  numbered  3  is lighting in blue. The illumination device  130  of the gaming terminal  3  numbered  4  is not emitting light. 
     In other words, each illumination device  130  lights differently based on at least one of whether or not a side bet is placed, and whether or not a combination symbol arrangement  190  rearranged on the terminal display  101  is adopted as symbols  180  to be rearranged on the shared display  102 . 
     Thus, the illumination device  130  lights differently according to whether or not a side bet is received. Further, a player is able to visually recognize how the illumination device  130  of the gaming terminal  3  lights, through which gaming terminal  3  a payout based on symbols  180  rearranged on the shared display  102 . Thus, a player is given an incentive to place a side bet. This realizes a new entertainment characteristic. 
     (Mechanical Structure of Gaming Machine  1 ) 
     Next, the following describes a specific example of mechanical and electrical structures of the gaming machine  1  thus structured. 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 9 , the gaming machine  1  includes: gaming terminals  3  which run a game independently from each other; a center controller  100  connected to the gaming terminals  3 , which is in communication with the gaming terminals  3  and runs a shared game; a shared display  102  which displays thereon an effect image related to the shared game; a rail  271  which supports the shared display  102  and allows the shared display  102  to move to a position immediately above one of the gaming terminals  3 ; and a not-shown drive motor  270  which causes the shared display  102  to move along the rail  271 . 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 44 , the gaming terminal  3  includes: a cabinet  11 , a top box  12  provided above the cabinet  11 , and a main door  13  provided on the front surface of the cabinet  11 . The main door  13  has a lower image display panel  16 . The lower image display panel  16  has a transparent liquid crystal panel for displaying various kinds of information. The lower image display panel  16  displays display windows  151  to  155  (matrix  156 ) for arranging therein symbols  180 . Further, the lower image display panel  16  displays as needed various information and effect images related to a game. 
     Below the lower image display panel  16  provided are a control panel  20 , a coin insertion slot  21 , a side-bet coin insertion slot  90 , and a bill validator  22 . The control panel  20  is provided with various buttons  23  to  27 . These buttons  23  to  27  allow a player to input instructions related to a game played by the player. Through the coin insertion slot  21 , a coin is received in the cabinet  11 . The side-bet coin insertion slot  90  serving as the bet unit  109  enables a coin to be inserted into the cabinet  11 . 
     (Electrical structure of Gaming Terminal  3 ) 
       FIG. 45  is a block diagram showing an electrical structure of the entire gaming terminal  3 . As illustrated in  FIG. 45 , the cabinet  11  includes a control unit having a terminal controller  110 . The control unit includes a motherboard  40 , a main body PCB (Printed Circuit Board)  60 , a gaming board  50 , a door PCB  80 , various switches, sensors, or the like. 
     The door PCB  80  is connected to a control panel  20 , a reverter  21 S, a coin counter  21 C, a side-bet reverter  90 S serving as the bet unit  109 , a side-bet coin counter  90 C serving as the bet unit  109 , and a cold cathode tube  81 . The control panel  20  is provided with: a spin switch  23 S associated with the spin button  23 ; a change switch  24 S associated with the change button  24 ; a cashout switch  25 S associated with the cashout button  25 ; a 1-BET switch  26 S associated with the 1-BET button  26 ; and a maximum BET switch  27 S associated with the maximum BET button  27 . Each of the switches  23 S to  27 S outputs a signal to the main CPU  41 , when a player presses the associated button. 
     The side-bet coin counter  90 C has the same structure as the coin counter  21 C, and is for a side bet. Further, the side-bet reverter  90 S has the same structure as the reverter  21 S, and is for a side bet. 
     (Operation of Gaming Terminal  3 : Terminal Process Routine) 
     After the terminal side initial setting routine of  FIG. 15 , the main CPU  41  of the gaming terminal  3  performs a terminal process routine of  FIG. 46 . Through this terminal process routine, a game is run. 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 46 , in the terminal process routine, it is determined whether a coin is bet (C1). In this step, it is determined whether a signal from the 1-BET switch  26 S entered by pressing of the 1-BET button  26  is received. Meanwhile, it is determined whether a signal from the maximum BET switch  27 S entered by pressing of the maximum BET button  27  is received. If no coin is BET (C1: NO), C1 is repeated until a coin is bet. 
     On the other hand, if a coin is bet (C1: YES), the credit value stored in the RAM  43  is reduced according to the number of coins bet (C2). When the number of coins bet surpasses the number of coins equivalent to the credit value stored in the RAM  43 , C2 is repeated without the reduction of the credit value. When the number of coins bet exceeds the maximum number of coins bettable one game (50 pieces in this embodiment), the process goes to a later-described step C3 without the reduction of the credit value. 
     Then, it is determined whether a spin button  23  is pressed (C3). If the spin button  23  is not pressed (C3: NO), the process returns to C1. Here, if the spin button  23  is not pressed (for example, the spin button  23  is not pressed but a command to end the game is input), the reduction of the credit value in C2 is canceled. 
     On the other hand, when the spin button  23  is pressed (C3: YES), a progressive transmission process is executed (C4). In other words, a progressive signal indicating a part of the game value bet is transmitted to the center controller  100 . 
     Next executed is a symbol determining process (C5). That is, the stop symbol determining program stored in the RAM  43  is run to determine symbols  180  to be arranged in the matrix  156 . Through this, a symbol combination to be formed along the payline L is determined. 
     Then, the scrolling process is executed to scroll symbols  180  on the terminal display  101  (C6). The scrolling process is a process in which the symbols  180  determined in C5 are stopped (rearranged) in the matrix  156  after scrolling of symbols  180  in a direction indicated by an arrow symbol. 
     Next, the CPU  41  determines whether a shared game is running (C7). If a shared game start signal is received from the center controller  100 , the CPU  41  determines that the shared game is running. If the CPU  41  determines that the shared game is running (C7: YES), a terminal symbol arrangement signal is transmitted to the center controller  100  (C12). The terminal symbol arrangement signal indicates symbols  180  rearranged in the arrangement areas  150  and an arrangement of the symbols  180  (terminal symbol arrangement). Next, the main CPU  41  determines whether a combination symbol arrangement signal from the center controller  100  is received (C13). The combination symbol arrangement signal indicates a combination symbol arrangement  190  determined by the center controller  100  based on the terminal symbol arrangement signal resulting from C12. When it is determined that no combination symbol arrangement signal is received in step C13 (C13: NO), the main CPU  41  executes step C8. Meanwhile, when it is determined that the combination symbol arrangement signal is received (C13: YES), the main CPU  41  causes the terminal display  101  to scroll the frame. Then, the main CPU  41  stops scrolling the frame so as to present in the frame the combination symbol arrangement  190  received in C12 (C14). Then, the main CPU  41  determines whether the bet unit  109  has received a side bet (C15). When it is determined that a side bet is received (C15: YES), the main CPU  41  executes step C8. Meanwhile, when it is determined that no side bet is received (C15: NO), the main CPU  41  causes the lamp  30  and the upper image display panel  33  to light in blue (C16), and executes step C8. On the other hand in C7, if it is determined that no shared game is running (C7: NO), C8 is executed. 
     Next, it is determined whether symbols  180  rearranged in the matrix  156  form a winning combination (C8). If the symbols  180  forms a winning combination (C8: YES), a payout process is executed (C9). More specifically, when a winning combination is formed, the number of coins according to the combination is calculated. On the other hand in C8, if it is determined that no winning combination is formed (C8: NO), C10 is executed. 
     Next, the main CPU  41  determines whether a progressive award signal is received from the center controller  100  (C10). If the CPU  41  determines that a progressive award signal is received (C10:YES), a payout is awarded according to the progressive award signal (C11). The process then returns to C1. On the other hand in C10, if the CPU  41  determines that no progressive award signal is received (C10: NO), the process returns to C1. 
     (Operation of Gaming Terminal  3 : Side Bet Process Routine) 
     The main CPU  41  of the gaming terminal  3  executes the side bet process routine illustrated in  FIG. 47 , and the gaming terminal process routine in parallel. 
     In the side bet process routine, the main CPU  41  determined whether a shared game start signal is received from the center controller  100 , as illustrated in  FIG. 47  (D1). When it is determined that no shared game start signal is received (D1: NO), the main CPU  41  executes step D1. Meanwhile, when it is determined that a shared game start signal is received (D1: YES), the main CPU  41  causes the bet unit  109  to start receiving a side bet (D2). Next, the main CPU  41  determines whether a symbol arrangement determining signal is received from the center controller  100  (D3), and waits until it is determined that a symbol arrangement determining signal is received (D3: NO). When it is determined that a symbol arrangement determining signal is received (D3: YES), the main CPU  41  causes the bet unit  109  to stop receiving the side bet (D4). Next, the main CPU  41  determines whether the bet unit  109  has received a side bet (D5). When it is determined that the bet unit  109  has received no side bet (D5: NO), the main CPU  41  executes step D1. Meanwhile, when it is determined that the bet unit  109  has received a side bet (D5: YES), the main CPU  41  outputs a side bet signal to the center controller  100  (D6). Next, the main CPU  41  causes the lamp  30  and the upper image display panel  33  both serving as the illumination device  130  to light in red (D7), and returns to step D1. 
     (Operation of Center Controller  100 : Center Process Routine) 
     After the center side initial setting routine of  FIG. 15 , the main CPU  241  of the center controller  100  executes a center process routine of  FIG. 48 . The main CPU  241  performs the center process routine to run a shared game. 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 48 , in the center process routine, the main CPU  241  determines whether a progressive signal is received from a gaming terminal  3  (E1). If the main CPU  241  determines that a progressive signal is received (E1:YES), a game value indicated by the progressive signal is stored and summed (E2). The process then returns to D1. 
     On the other hand in E1, if the main CPU  241  determines no progressive signal is received (E1: NO), the main CPU  241  determines if the progressive value equals or surpasses a predetermined value (E3). If the main CPU  241  determines that the progressive value is less than the predetermined value (E3: NO), the process returns to E1. On the other hand, if the main CPU  241  determines that the progressive value equals or surpasses the predetermined value (E3: YES), a shared game start signal is output to each of the gaming terminals  3  (E4). Next, the main CPU  241  causes the shared display  102  to start scrolling symbols  180  (E5). Next, a terminal symbol arrangement signal is received from each of the gaming terminals  3  (E6). Based on the terminal symbol arrangement signal, a combination symbol arrangement  190  is determined. The combination symbol arrangement  190  thus determined is sent back to the gaming terminals  3  (E7). 
     Next, the main CPU  241  combines at least two combination symbol arrangements  190  determined in E7, and tries to determine symbols  180  and an arrangement of the symbols  180  to be arranged in the arrangement areas  250  of the shared display  102  (E8). If an arrangement is not determined (E8: NO), the process returns to E6. On the other hand, if an arrangement is determined (E8: YES), the scrolling of the symbols  180  on the shared display  102  is stopped to present the arrangement determined (E9). Further, when an arrangement is determined in step E8, a symbol arrangement determining signal is output. 
     Then, the main CPU  241  determines whether the symbols  180  arranged on the shared display  102  forms a winning combination (E10). If the main CPU  241  determines that no winning combination is formed (E10: NO), the process returns to E1. On the other hand, if the main CPU  241  determines that a winning combination is formed (E10:YES), a later-mentioned progressive award process routine is called to be executed (E11). When the progressive award process ends, a progressive value consumed is subtracted from the value stored in RAM  243  (E12), and the process returns to E1. 
     As is already mentioned, this payout awarded according to the relation among the symbols rearranged on the shared display realizes a new entertainment characteristic which raises player&#39;s expectation for another payout awarded in addition to the one awarded as a result of the game run in the gaming terminal. 
     Further, as described above, one symbol arrangement of one gaming terminal  3  is combined with symbols  180  identical to those in another symbol arrangement of the terminal display  101  while giving a priority to a symbol arrangement of a side-bet gaming terminal  3 , wherein the one symbol arrangement includes the symbols  180  arranged in arrangement areas  150  of the one gaming terminal  3 , and the other symbol arrangement includes the symbols  180  arranged in arrangement areas  150  of the other gaming terminal  3 . Then, the combination of symbol arrangements formed is rearranged on the shared display  102 . Thus, one game is formed with the side-bet gaming terminals  3 . This realizes a new entertainment characteristic which gives the feelings of “unity” and “sharing” to participating players. 
     Further, as described above, a payout is awarded by the payout awarding device  125  of the side-bet gaming terminal  3 . Thus, a player is given an incentive to place a side bet. This realizes a new entertainment characteristic. 
     Further, as is already mentioned, a single game involving a plurality of gaming terminals is created by rearranging, on the shared display  102 , symbols  180  identical to those in one symbol arrangement  190  of the terminal display  101  in combination with symbols  180  identical to those in another symbol arrangement  190  of another gaming terminal  3 , wherein the one arrangement  190  includes the symbols  180  arranged in arrangement areas  150  of the one gaming terminal  3 , and the other arrangement  190  includes the symbols  180  arranged in arrangement areas  150  of the other gaming terminal  3 . This realizes a new entertainment characteristic which gives the feelings of “unity” and “sharing” to participating players. 
     As described above, the illumination device  130  emits light when a side bet is received. Further, a player is able to visually recognize how the illumination device  130  of the gaming terminal  3  lights, through which gaming terminal  3  a payout is awarded based on symbols  180  rearranged on the shared display  102 . Thus, a player is given an incentive to place a side bet. This realizes a new entertainment characteristic. 
     Further, as described above, the illumination device  130  lights differently according to whether or not a side bet is received. Further, a player is able to visually recognize how the illumination device  130  of the gaming terminal  3  lights, through which gaming terminal  3  a payout based on symbols  180  rearranged on the shared display  102 . Thus, a player is given an incentive to place a side bet. This realizes a new entertainment characteristic. 
     Note that the present embodiment deals with a case where the center controller  100  determines a combination symbol arrangement based on a terminal symbol arrangement. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, it may be the terminal controller  110  which determines a combination symbol arrangement based on a terminal symbol arrangement. 
     Note further that the number of gaming terminals  3  is three or four in the present embodiment. However, the present invention is not limited to this, provided that at least two gaming terminals  3  are provided. 
     The detailed description of the present invention provided hereinabove mainly focused on characteristics thereof for the purpose of easier understanding; however, the scope of the present invention shall be construed as broadly as possible, encompassing various forms of other possible embodiments, and therefore the present invention shall not be limited to the above description. Further, the terms and phraseology used in the present specification are adopted solely to provide specific illustration of the present invention, and in no case should the scope of the present invention be limited by such terms and phraseology. Further, it will be obvious for those skilled in the art that the other structures, systems, methods or the like are possible, within the spirit of the invention described in the present specification. The description of claims therefore shall encompass structures equivalent to the present invention, unless otherwise such structures are regarded as to depart from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Further, the abstract is provided to allow, through a simple investigation, quick analysis of the technical features and essences of the present invention by an intellectual property office, a general public institution, or one skilled in the art who is not fully familiarized with patent and legal or professional terminology. It is therefore not an intention of the abstract to limit the scope of the present invention which shall be construed on the basis of the description of the claims. To fully understand the object and effects of the present invention, it is strongly encouraged to sufficiently refer to disclosures of documents already made available. 
     The detailed description of the present invention provided hereinabove includes a process executed on a computer or computer network. The above descriptions and expressions are provided to allow the one skilled in the art to most efficiently understand the present invention. A process performed in or by respective steps yielding one result or blocks with a predetermined processing function described in the present specification shall be understood as a process with no self-contradiction. Further, the electrical or magnetic signal is transmitted/received and written in the respective steps or blocks. It should be noted that such a signal is expressed in the form of bit, value, symbol, text, terms, number, or the like solely for the sake of convenience. Although the present specification occasionally personifies the processes performed in the steps or blocks, these processes are essentially executed by various devices. Further, the other structures necessary for the steps or blocks are obvious from the above descriptions. 
     Fifth Embodiment 
     The following describes a fifth embodiment of a gaming machine and a playing method thereof according to the present invention. Note that reference numbers and symbols given to members and steps of flowcharts are only applicable to those described within the present embodiment, and do not represent the members or the steps of the other embodiments. 
     As shown in  FIG. 49 , the present invention is a gaming machine including: a common display which arranges a plurality of symbols in a matrix of arrangement areas; a plurality of terminal devices each having a terminal display which arranges a plurality of symbols in a matrix of arrangement areas and a side-bet device which selects to or not to participate in a game played on the common display, the terminal device rearranging a plurality of symbols in the arrangement areas on the terminal display and running a game to award a payout in accordance with a relation among the rearranged symbols; and a controller. The present invention is embodied as a control method for playing the gaming machine, including the steps of: putting the side-bet device into a selectable state until the symbols are rearranged in the arrangement areas in the plurality of terminal devices; rearranging the symbols in the arrangement areas in the plurality of terminal devices; awarding a base payout in accordance with a relation among the symbols rearranged in the arrangement areas; rearranging, on the common display, predetermined ones of the symbols rearranged in the terminal device selected by the side-bet device; rearranging the predetermined symbols thus rearranged, in the arrangement areas on the common display; and awarding a bonus payout in accordance with the number of the predetermined symbols thus rearranged. 
     In this embodiment, the “side-bet game” is a sideshow game which is played independently of a main plot of a base game. 
     A gaming machine  100  which runs the above game includes a controller  111 , a common display  101 , and a plurality of terminal devices  102 , as shown in  FIG. 50 . The common display  101  is adapted to arrange a plurality of symbols  180 . 
     The controller  111  has a side-bet game running unit  113 , a COMMON SYMBOL number determining unit  114 , and a bonus payout determining unit  115 . The terminal device  102  has a game starting unit  105 , a side-bet device  104 , a terminal controller  110 , a terminal display  103 , a base payout awarding unit  108 , and a bonus payout awarding unit  116 . 
     In addition, the terminal controller  110  has a game running unit  106 , a side-bet receiving unit  112 , a COMMON SYMBOL determining unit  109 , and a win determining unit  107 . 
     Here, “arranging” means making a state where symbols  180  are visible to a player. For example, in  FIG. 49 , it means making a state where symbols  180  are displayed in display windows  151  to  155 . Arranging symbols  180  again after dismissing symbols  180  is called “rearranging”. 
     The common display  101  and the terminal display  103  may have a mechanical structure adopting a reel device which rotates a reel to arrange symbols  180 . Alternatively, the common display  101  and the terminal display  103  may have an electrical structure in which a video reel is displayed as an image to thereby arrange symbols  180 . Further, a combination of the mechanical structure (reel) and the electric structure (video reel) may also be possible. Examples of the electrical structure include a liquid crystal display device, a CRT (cathode-ray tube), a plasma display device, and the like. A specific structure of the common display  101  and the terminal display  103  will be detailed later. 
     [Controller  111  and Terminal Controller  110 ] 
     The controller  111  and the terminal controller  110  are adapted to perform: a first process of putting the side-bet device  104  into a selectable state until the symbols  180  are rearranged in the arrangement areas in the plurality of terminal devices  102 ; a second process of rearranging the symbols  180  in the arrangement areas in the plurality of terminal devices  102 ; a third process of awarding a base payout in accordance with a relation among the symbols  180  rearranged in the arrangement areas; a fourth process of rearranging, on the common display  101 , predetermined ones of the symbols  180  rearranged in the terminal device  102  selected by the side-bet device  104 ; a fifth process of rearranging the predetermined symbols thus rearranged, in the arrangement areas on the common display  101 ; and a sixth process of awarding a bonus payout in accordance with the number of the predetermined symbols thus rearranged. In other words, the controller  111  and the terminal controller  110  include six process stages. 
     [Operations of Controller  111  and Terminal Controller  110 ] 
     A description will be given to operations of the controller  111  and the terminal controller  110  having the above-described structure. First, the side-bet device  104  is put into a selectable state until symbols  180  are rearranged in the arrangement areas in the plurality of terminal devices  102 . In short, the terminal controller  110  performs the first process. 
     Then, after a game value is inserted, triggered by a game start signal from the game starting unit  105 , the game running unit  106  starts to variably display the symbols  180  which have been arranged on the terminal display  103 . In short, the terminal controller  110  performs the second process. 
     Then, in accordance with a relation among the symbols  180  thus rearranged, the win determining unit  107  awards a base payout through the base payout awarding unit  108 . In short, the terminal controller  110  performs the third process. 
     Then, the side-bet receiving unit  112  determines whether the side-bet device  104  has selected to participate in a side-bet game or not. When it is determined that the side-bet device  104  has selected to participate, the COMMON SYMBOL determining unit  109  detects a total number of symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181  among the symbols  180  rearranged in the terminal display  103 , and rearranges the symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181  on the common display  101 . In short, the controller  111  and the terminal controller  110  performs the fourth process. 
     Then, the side-bet game running unit  113  rearranges, on the common display  101 , the symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181  rearranged. In short, the controller  111  performs the fifth process. 
     Then, the COMMON SYMBOL number determining unit  114  detects the number of symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181  thus rearranged. In accordance with the number of detected symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 , the bonus payout determining unit  115  calculates a bonus payout to be awarded to the terminal device  102  having participated in the side-bet game. Then, the bonus payout awarding unit  116  awards the bonus payout calculated. In short, the controller  111  and the terminal controller  110  performs the sixth process. 
     Each block of the controller  111  and the terminal controller  110  may be formed by hardware or by software as needed. 
     As seen from the above-described operations, the present invention a gaming machine including: a common display  101  which arranges a plurality of symbols  180  in a matrix of arrangement areas; a plurality of terminal devices  102  each having a terminal display  103  which arranges a plurality of symbols in a matrix of arrangement areas and a side-bet device  104  which selects to or not to participate in a game played on the common display  101 , the terminal device  102  rearranging a plurality of symbols  180  in the arrangement areas on the terminal display  103  and running a game to award a payout in accordance with a relation among the rearranged symbols  180 ; and a controller  111  and a terminal controller  110 . The present invention is embodied as a control method for playing the gaming machine  100 , including the steps of: putting the side-bet device  104  into a selectable state until the symbols  180  are rearranged in the arrangement areas in the plurality of terminal devices  102 ; rearranging the symbols  180  in the arrangement areas in the plurality of terminal devices  102 ; awarding a base payout in accordance with a relation among the symbols  180  rearranged in the arrangement areas; rearranging, on the common display  101 , symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181  among the symbols  180  rearranged in the terminal device  102  selected by the side-bet device  104 ; rearranging the symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181  thus rearranged, in the arrangement areas on the common display  101 ; and awarding a bonus payout in accordance with the number of symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181  thus rearranged. 
     In the above-described structure, it is possible to rearrange, among the symbols  180  rearranged in the terminal device  102  selected by the side-bet device  104 , the symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181  on the common display  101 , and to award the bonus payout in accordance with the number of symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181  rearranged on the common display  101 . A player playing on the terminal device  102  which has made a side-bet is given a bonus payout as a result of a side-bet game, which bonus payout is affected by game results of players playing on neighboring terminal devices  102 . Therefore, the player making a side-bet can sometimes enjoy a side-bet game while feeling some togetherness (unity) with players playing on neighboring terminal devices  102 . 
     [Mechanical Structure of Slot Machine  1 ] 
     The following describes an embodiment where the gaming machine  100  having the above-described structure is applied to a slot machine  1  and specifically structured in mechanical, electrical, and operational senses. 
     The slot machine  1  is placed in a gaming facility or the like. The slot machine  1  performs a unit game by use of a game value. The game value is a coin, a bill, or a value in the form of electronic information. However, the game value in the present invention is not particularly limited. For example, a medal, token, electronic money, a ticket and the like are also possible. Further, the ticket is not particularly limited and may be a barcoded ticket which will be described later, and the like. 
     As shown in  FIG. 51 , the slot machine  1  is connected in communication with terminal devices  3 A,  3 B, and  3 C which run games independently of one another. The slot machine  1  has a common display  201  which displays an image relating to a shared game, a rail  271  which moves the common display  201  to just above each of the terminal devices  3 A,  3 B, and  3 C, and a not-shown drive motor  270 . The common display  201 , which serves as a common display to arrange symbols  180 , is equivalent to the common display  101  shown in  FIG. 50 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 52 , the terminal device  3 A,  3 B,  3 C has a cabinet  11 , a top box  12  placed on an upper side of the cabinet  11 , and a main door  13  provided on a front surface of the cabinet  11 . A lower image display panel  16 A,  16 B,  16 C is provided on the main door  13 . The lower image display panel  16 A,  16 B,  16 C has a transparent liquid crystal panel which displays various information. The lower image display panel  16 A,  16 B,  16 C displays display windows  151  to  155  (a matrix  156 ) where a plurality of symbols  180  are arranged. In addition, the lower image display panel  16 A,  16 B,  16 C displays as needed game-related various information, effect images, and the like. The common display  201  has the same structure. The terminal device  3 A,  3 B,  3 C is equivalent to the terminal device  102  shown in  FIG. 50 . The matrix  156  with five columns and three rows in the display windows  151  to  155  are equivalent to the matrix of arrangement areas. The lower image display panel  16 A,  16 B,  16 C serving as a terminal display is equivalent to the terminal display  103  shown in  FIG. 50 . 
     This embodiment deals with, as an example, a case where the lower image display panels  16 A,  16 B, and  16 C electrically display symbols  180  to thereby display five columns and three rows of symbols. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, three columns and three rows of symbols, or five columns and five rows of symbols, may be acceptable. 
     In this example, symbols  180  arranged in the display windows  151  to  155  are scatter symbols. Here, scatter symbols means such symbols that activation occurs (i.e., a payout is awarded, a bonus game is given, or the like) when a predetermined number of them stop in the matrix of arrangement areas made up of the five columns and three rows of the display windows  151  to  155 . For example, in a base game where scatter symbols are adopted, a payout is awarded when a predetermined number (e.g., five or more) of scatter symbols are displayed in the display windows  151  to  155  (fifteen arrangement regions). That is, when a predetermined number of scatter symbols are displayed in the display windows  151  to  155 , a payout is awarded regardless of display positions or an arrangement way of the scatter symbols. 
     Note that the lower image display panel  16 A,  16 B,  16 C may have a credit value indicator and a payout value indicator. The credit value indicator displays a total value (hereinafter also referred to as total credit value) which the terminal device  3 A, 3 B,  3 C can pay out to a player. The payout value indicator displays the number of coins to be paid out. 
     Below the lower image display panel  16 A,  16 B,  16 C, provided are a control panel  20 , a coin receiving slot  21 , a side-bet coin receiving slot  90 , and a bill validator  22 . The control panel  20  is provided with buttons  23  to  27 . These buttons  23  to  27  allow a player to input commands relating to a game progress. The coin receiving slot  21  and the side-bet coin receiving slot  90  enable coins to be received into the cabinet  11 . The side-bet coin receiving slot  90  is equivalent to the side-bet device  104  shown in  FIG. 50 . 
     The control panel  20  includes a spin button  23 , a change button  24 , a cashout button  25 , a 1-BET button  26 , and a MAX-BET button  27 . The spin button  23  is for inputting a command to start scrolling the symbols  180 . The change button  24  is used to ask a staff person of the gaming facility for money exchange. The cash out button  25  is for inputting a command to pay out coins corresponding to the total credit-value into the coin tray  18 . The control panel  20  which performs a game in the terminal device is equivalent to the game starting unit  105  shown in  FIG. 50 . 
     The 1-BET button  26  is for inputting a command to bet, on a game, one coins among coins corresponding to the total credit value. The MAX-BET button  27  is for inputting a command to bet, on a game, a maximum number of coins bettable on one game (e.g., fifty coins) among coins corresponding to the total credit value. 
     The bill validator  22  validates whether a bill is genuine or not and receives the genuine bill into the cabinet  11 . Note that the bill validator  22  is capable of reading a barcoded ticket  39  which will be described later. When the bill validator  22  reads the barcoded ticket  39 , it outputs to the main CPU  41  a read signal relating to what has been read. 
     On a front surface of a lower part of the main door  13 , that is, below the control panel  20 , a belly glass  34  is provided. On the belly glass  34 , a character of the terminal device  3 A,  3 B,  3 C, or the like is drawn. On a front surface of the top box  12  is provided an upper image display panel  33 . The upper image display panel  33  has a liquid crystal panel, and displays an effect image, an image representing game introduction or game rules, or the like. 
     Further, the top box  12  has a lamp  30  for presenting an effect, and a speaker  29  for performing an audio output. Below the upper image display panel  33  are provided a ticket printer  35 , a card reader  36 , a data displayer  37 , and a keypad  38 . The ticket printer  35  prints, on to a ticket, a barcode which is an encoded form of data such as a credit-value, time and date, identification number of the terminal device  3 A,  3 B,  3 C, and the like. Thereby, the ticket printer  35  issues a barcoded ticket  39 . A player can play a game in another gaming terminal  3  with the ticket  39  having the barcode, or exchange the ticket  39  having the barcode with bill at a change booth of the game arcade. 
     The card reader  36  reads and writes data from and into a smart card. The smart card is carried by a player, and stores therein data for identifying the player and data relating to a history of games played by the player, for example. 
     The data displayer  37  includes a fluorescent display or the like, and displays the data read by the card reader  36  and the data input by the player through the keypad  38 , for example. The keypad  38  is for entering commands or data relating to issuing of a ticket. 
     [Electrical Structure of Slot Machine] 
       FIGS. 81 and 82  are block diagrams each illustrating an electrical structure of the entire slot machine  1 . 
     [Electrical Structure of Terminal Device] 
       FIG. 56  is a block diagram showing an electrical structure of the terminal device  3 A,  3 B,  3 C. As illustrated in  FIG. 56 , a control unit is provided within the cabinet  11 . The control unit includes a motherboard  40 , a main body PCB (Printed Circuit Board)  60 , a gaming board  50 , a door PCB  80 , various switches, sensors, or the like. 
     The gaming board  50  has a CPU (Central Processing Unit)  51 , a ROM  55 , a boot ROM  52 , a card slot  53 S corresponding to a memory card  53 , and an IC socket  54 S corresponding to a GAL (Generic Array Logic)  54 . The CPU  51 , the ROM  55 , and the boot ROM  52  are connected to one another through an internal bus. 
     The memory card  53  stores therein a game program and a game system program. The game program contains a stop symbol determining program. The stop symbol determining program determines symbols (code numbers corresponding to the symbols) to be stopped on the matrix  156 . 
     This stop symbol determining program contains sets of symbol weighting data respectively corresponding to various payout rates (e.g., 80% 84%, and 88%). Each set of the symbol weighting data indicates, for each of the display windows  151  to  155 , correspondence between a code number of each symbol column (symbol lines A to E) and at least one random numerical value belonging to a predetermined range. The payout rate is determined based on payout rate setting data output from the GAL  54 . Based on a set of the symbol weighting data corresponding to the payout rate determined, a symbol to be stopped is determined. 
     The memory card  53  stores therein various types of data for use in the game programs and the game system programs. For example, the memory card  53  stores data indicating correspondence between each of symbols  180  displayed in the display windows  151  to  155  and a range of a random numerical values, in the form of a base game winning combination lottery table  130  (see  FIG. 58 ). The memory card  53  also stores payout data which are based on a lottery result obtained from the base game winning combination lottery table  130 , in the form of a base game payout table  131  (see  FIG. 59 ). These data are transferred to a RAM  43  of the motherboard  40 , at the time of running game programs. 
     The card slot  53 S is structured so as to allow the memory card  53  to be attached and detached to and from the card slot  53 S. This card slot  53 S is connected to the motherboard  40  through an IDE bus. Thus, a type and contents of a game run by the terminal device  3 A,  3 B,  3 C can be changed by detaching the memory card  53  from the card slot  53 S, writing a different game program and a different game system program into the memory card  53 , and inserting the memory card  53  back into the card slot  53 S. 
     The game programs include a program relating to a game progress. The game programs also include data of images and sounds to be outputted during a game. 
     The GAL  54  has input and output ports. When the GAL  54  receives data via the input port, it outputs, from its output port, data corresponding to the input data. 
     The IC socket  54 S is structured so as to allow the GAL  54  to be attached and detached to and from the IC socket  54 S. The IC socket  54 S is connected to the motherboard  40 , via a PCI bus. Thus, data to be output from the GAL  54  can be changed by detaching the GAL  54  from the IC socket  54 S, overwriting the program stored in the GAL  54 , and then attaching the GAL  54  back to the IC socket  54 S. 
     The CPU  51 , the ROM  55 , and the boot ROM  52  connected to one another through the internal bus are connected to the motherboard  40  through a PCI bus. The PCI bus communicates signals between the motherboard  40  and the gaming board  50 , and supplies power from the motherboard  40  to the gaming board  50 . The ROM  55  stores country identification information and an authentication program. The boot ROM  52  stores a preliminary authentication program, a program (boot code) for enabling the CPU  51  to run the preliminary authentication program, and the like. 
     The authentication program is a program (falsification check program) for authenticating the game program and the game system program. The authentication program is a program for confirming and verifying that the game program and the game system program are not falsified. In other words, the authentication program is described in accordance with a procedure for authenticating the game program and the game system program. The preliminary authentication program is a program for authenticating the authentication program. The preliminary authentication program is described in accordance with a procedure for verifying that the authentication program to be authenticated is not falsified, that is, for authenticating the authentication program. 
     The motherboard  40  has a main CPU  41 , a ROM (Read Only Memory)  42 , a RAM (Random Access Memory)  43 , and a communication interface  44 . The motherboard  40  acting as a controller corresponds to the terminal controller  110  shown in  FIG. 50 . 
     The main CPU  41  controls the entire terminal device  3 A,  3 B,  3 C. In particular, the main CPU  41  controls the following operations of: outputting a command signal for making the graphic board  68  variably display symbols  180 , at a time when the spin button  23  is pressed after betting of credit; determining symbols  180  to be stopped after the variable-displaying of symbols  180 ; and stopping the symbols  180  thus determined in the display windows  151  to  155 . The main CPU  41  corresponds to the game running unit  106 , the COMMON SYMBOL determining unit  109 , and the win determining unit  107  shown in  FIG. 50 . 
     In other words, the main CPU  41  serves to control arrangement, by scrolling symbols displayed in the lower image display panels  16 A,  16 B,  16 C, then selecting and determining symbols to be rearranged from various kinds of symbols, to rearrange new symbols, and stopping scrolling of the symbols to present the symbols thus determined. 
     The ROM  42  stores a program such as BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) run by the main CPU  41 , and permanently-used data. When the BIOS is run by the main CPU  41 , each of peripheral devices is initialized, and the game program and the game system program stored in the memory card  53  are read out through the gaming board  50 . The RAM  43  stores data or a program used for the main CPU  41  to perform a process. For example, the base game winning combination lottery table  130 , the base game payout table  131 , a game running processing program, and a side-bet processing program are stored in the RAM  43 . In addition, a credit value is stored in the RAM  43 . 
     The communication interface  44  communicates with a central control board  210  through a communication line. Further, a main body PCB (Printed Circuit Board)  60  and a door PCB  80  are connected to the motherboard  40 , respectively through USBs (Universal Serial Buses). Further, a power unit  45  is connected to the motherboard  40 . When the power unit  45  supplies power to the motherboard  40 , the main CPU  41  of the mother board  40  is booted and in addition power is supplied to the gaming board  50  through the PCI bus so that the CPU  51  is booted. 
     Various devices or units which generate signals to be input to the main CPU  41 , and various devices or units whose operations are controlled by signals output from the main CPU  41  are connected to the main body PCB  60  and the door PCB  80 . Based on a signal input to the main CPU  41 , the main CPU  41  runs the game program and the game system program stored in the RAM  43 , to perform an arithmetic process. Then, the main CPU  41  stores a result of the arithmetic process in the RAM  43 , or performs a control process on various devices and units by transmitting a control signal to the various devices and units. 
     A lamp  30 , a hopper  66 , a coin sensor  67 , a graphic board  68 , the speaker  29 , a bill validator  22 , a ticket printer  35 , a card reader  36 , a key switch  38 S, and a data displayer  37  are connected to main body PCB  60 . 
     The lamp  30  is turned on/off based on a control signal from the main CPU  41 . 
     The hopper  66  is mounted within the cabinet  11  and pays out a predetermined number of coins through a coin outlet  19  into the coin tray  18 , based on a control signal output from the main CPU  41 . The coin sensor  67  is provided inside the coin outlet  19 . When the coin sensor  67  senses that a predetermined number of coins have been delivered from the coin outlet  19 , the coin sensor  67  outputs a signal to be input to the main CPU  41 . The hopper  66  corresponds to the base payout awarding unit  108  and the bonus payout awarding unit  116  shown in  FIG. 50 . 
     The graphic board  68  controls image display on the upper image display panel  33  and the lower image display panel  16 A,  16 B,  16 C, based on a control signal from the main CPU  41 . Further, the graphic board  68  is provided with a VDP (Video Display Processor) for generating image data based on a control signal output from the main CPU  41 , a video RAM for temporarily storing the image data generated by the VDP, and the like. Note that image data used at the time when the VDP generates the image data are included in the game program which has been read out from the memory card  53  and stored into the RAM  43 . 
     The bill validator  22  reads an image on a bill and takes only one recognized to be genuine into the cabinet  11 . When taking in a genuine bill, the bill validator  22  outputs, to the main CPU  41 , an input signal based on a value of the bill. The main CPU  41  stores into the RAM  43  a credit value equivalent to the value of the bill indicated by the signal. 
     Based on a control signal output from the main CPU  41 , the ticket printer  35  prints a barcode on a ticket, and outputs it as a barcoded ticket  39 . The barcode contains encoded data of the credit value stored in the RAM  43 , time and date, an identification number of the terminal device  3 A,  3 B,  3 C, and the like. 
     The card reader  36  reads out data from the smart card and transmits the data to the main CPU  41 . Further, the card reader  36  writes data into the smart card based on a control signal output from the main CPU  41 . The key switch  38 S is mounted to the keypad  38 , and outputs a signal to the main CPU  41  in response to a player&#39;s operation on the keypad  38 . The data displayer  37  displays, based on a control signal output from the main CPU  41 , data read by the card reader  36  or data input by the player through the key pad  38 . 
     A control panel  20 , a reverter  21 S, a coin counter  21 C, a side-bet reverter  90 S, a side-bet coin counter  90 C, and a cold cathode tube  81  are connected to the door PCB  80 . The control panel  20  is provided with: a spin switch  23 S associated with the spin button  23 ; a change switch  24 S associated with the change button  24 ; a cashout switch  25 S associated with the cashout button  25 ; a 1-BET switch  26 S associated with the 1-BET button  26 ; and a MAX-BET switch  27 S associated with the MAX-BET button  27 . Each of the switches  23 S to  27 S outputs a signal to the main CPU  41 , when a player presses the associated button. 
     The coin counter  21 C and the side-bet coin counter  90 C are provided within the coin receiving slot  21  and the side-bet coin receiving slot  90 , and identifies whether coins inserted into the coin receiving slot  21  and the side-bet coin receiving slot  90  by the player are genuine. A coin other than a genuine coin is discharged from the coin outlet  19 . The coin counter  21 C and the side-bet coin counter  90 C output an input signal to the main CPU  41  upon detection of a genuine coin. The side-bet coin counter  90 C corresponds to the side-bet receiving unit  112  shown in  FIG. 50 . 
     The reverter  21 S and the side-bet reverter  90 S are operated based on a control signal output from the main CPU  41 . The reverter  21 S and the side-bet reverter  90 S distribute a coin, which the coin counter  21 C and the side-bet coin counter  90 C has recognized as a genuine coin, to the hopper  66  or a cash box (not shown) mounted in the terminal device  3 A,  3 B,  3 C. In other words, when the hopper  66  is full of coins, genuine coins are distributed into the cash box by the reverter  21 S and the side-bet reverter  90 S. On the other hand, when the hopper  66  is not yet full of coins, genuine coins are distributed into the hopper  66 . The cold cathode tube  81  functions as a backlight mounted to rear sides of the lower image display panel  16 A,  16 B,  16 C and the upper image display panel  33 . The cold cathode tube  81  turns on based on a control signal output from the main CPU  41 . 
     [Base Game Winning Combination Lottery Table] 
     A base game winning combination lottery table  130  which is used in a game running process executed by the terminal device  3 A,  3 B,  3 C will be described with reference to  FIG. 58 .  FIG. 58  is an explanatory view showing a base game winning combination lottery table. The base game winning combination lottery table  130  is stored in the RAM  43 , and read during a symbol determining process of the game running process which will be described later. 
     As shown in  FIG. 58 , random numerical values used in the base game winning combination lottery table  130  ranges from 0 to 5998. When a random numerical value sampled by the main CPU  41  is 0 to 22, a winning combination of “HEART”  182  is made, and five symbols  180  presenting “HEART”  182  are stopped in the display windows  151  to  155 . When a random numerical value sampled by the main CPU  41  is 23 to 51, a winning combination of “MOON”  183  is made, and 
     five symbols  180  of “MOON”  183  are stopped in the display windows  151  to  155 . Likewise, when a random numerical value is 52 to 107, a winning combination of “K”  186  is made. When a random numerical value is 108 to 207, a winning combination of “A”  184  is made. When a random numerical value is 208 to 407, a winning combination of “Q”  187  is made. When a random numerical value is 408 to 707, a winning combination of “J”  185  is made. When a random numerical value is 708 to 1107, a winning combination of “10”  188  is made. When a random numerical value sampled by the main CPU  41  is 1108 to 5998, it means a loss, and a losing combination of symbols  180 , which is different from any of the above-mentioned winning combinations, is stopped in the display windows  151  to  155 . Here, making any of these combinations is referred to as making a win. 
     [Base Game Payout Table] 
     Next, a base game payout table  131  will be described with reference to  FIG. 59 . The base game payout table  131  indicates the number of coins to be paid out for a winning combination determined by the base game winning combination lottery table shown in  FIG. 58 .  FIG. 59  shows a base game payout table. The base game payout table is stored in the RAM  43 , and read during a payout process of the game running process which will be described later. 
     For a result of sampling using the base game winning combination lottery table  130 , coins are paid out in accordance with a winning combination displayed in the display windows  151  to  155  based on the base game payout table  131 . 
     More specifically, when five symbols  180  of “HEART”  182  are stopped in the display windows  151  to  155 , fifty coins are paid out. When five symbols  180  of “MOON”  183  are stopped in the display windows  151  to  155 , thirty coins are paid out as a payout. Likewise, when five symbols  180  of “K”  186  are stopped in the display windows  151  to  155 , twenty-five coins are paid out as a payout. When five symbols  180  of “A”  184  are stopped in the display windows  151  to  155 , twenty coins are paid out as a payout. When five symbols  180  of “Q”  187  are stopped in the display windows  151  to  155 , fifteen coins are paid out as a payout. When five symbols  180  of “J”  185  are stopped in the display windows  151  to  155 , ten coins are paid out as a payout. When five symbols  180  of “10”  188  are stopped in the display windows  151  to  155 , five coins are paid out as a payout. When a lottery results in losing, and a losing combination of symbols  180 , which is different from any of the above-mentioned winning combinations, is stopped in the display windows  151  to  155 , zero coin is paid out as a payout. Note that, when one coin is inserted for a game, the above-mentioned number of coins are paid out as a payout. When two or more coins are inserted for one game, the number of coins actually paid out is the number of inserted coins being multiplied by the above-mentioned number of coins paid out. 
     [Electrical Structure of Central Control Board] 
       FIG. 57  is a block diagram showing an electrical structure of the central control board  210 . A control unit is provided within the central control board  210 . The control unit includes a motherboard  240 , a gaming board  250 , an actuator, and the like. The central control board  210  functioning as a controller corresponds to the controller  111  shown in  FIG. 50 . 
     The gaming board  250  has a CPU (Central Processing Unit)  251 , a ROM  255 , a boot ROM  252 , a card slot  253 S corresponding to a memory card  253 , and an IC socket  254 S corresponding to a GAL (Generic Array Logic)  254 . The CPU  251 , the ROM  255 , and the boot ROM  252  are connected to one another through an internal bus. In other words, the gaming board  250  has the same structure and the same functions as those of the gaming board  50 . 
     The motherboard  240  has a main CPU  241 , a ROM (Read Only Memory)  242 , a RAM (Random Access Memory)  243 , a power unit  245 , a graphic board  268 , a common display  201  connected to the graphic board  268 , and a communication interface  244 . The RAM  243  stores therein a COMMON SYMBOL number determining program, a COMMON SYMBOL number lottery table  132 , a side-bet game payout table  133 , and a side-bet game running processing program. 
     The common display  201  has a transparent liquid crystal panel which displays various information. The common display  201  displays display windows  231  to  235  where a plurality of symbols  180  are arranged. In addition, the common display  201  displays as needed game-related various information, effect images, and the like. 
     This embodiment deals with, as an example, a case where the common display  201  electrically displays symbols  180  to arrange the symbols  180  in five columns and three rows. However, this is not limitative. The symbols  180  may be arranged in three columns and three rows, or five columns and five rows, for example. 
     In this embodiment, moreover, symbols  180  displayed in the display windows  231  to  235  are symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 . In other words, the symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181  correspond to the predetermined ones of symbols  180  rearranged in the terminal devices  3 A,  3 B and  3 C, which one are arranged in the display windows  231  to  235 . 
     The main CPU  241  controls the entire central control board  210 . In particular, the main CPU  241  controls the following operations of: outputting a command signal for making the graphic board  268  variably display symbols  180 , at a time when a game using the common display  201  is run; determining symbols  180  to be stopped after the variable-displaying of symbols  180 ; and stopping the symbols  180  thus determined in the display windows  231  to  235 . The main CPU  241  corresponds to the side-bet game running unit  113  shown in  FIG. 50 . The main CPU  241  also corresponds to the COMMON SYMBOL number determining unit  114 , and the bonus payout determining unit  115  shown in  FIG. 50 . 
     The communication interface  224  communicates with the communication interfaces  44  of the terminal devices  3 A,  3 B, and  3 C through a communication line. 
     The graphic board  268  has the same structure as that of the graphic board  68 , except that the graphic board  268  controls image displaying on the common display  201  based on a control signal output from the main CPU  241 . 
     The drive motor  270  is a stepping motor and is connected to a not-shown drive wheel. The drive motor  270  is driven based on a control signal output from the main CPU  241 , and rotates the drive wheel to move the common display  201  on the rail  271 . 
     [Common Symbol Number Lottery Table]Next, with reference to  FIG. 60 , a description will be given to a COMMON SYMBOL number lottery table  132  by which the number of symbols of COMMON SYMBOL (CS) to be arranged on the common display  201  are determined.  FIG. 60  is an explanatory view showing a COMMON SYMBOL number lottery table. The COMMON SYMBOL number lottery table  132  is stored in the RAM  243 , and read during a COMMON SYMBOL number determining process of the side-bet game running process which will be described later. 
     As shown in  FIG. 60 , random numerical values adopted in the COMMON SYMBOL number lottery table  132  ranges from 0 to 11999. When a random numerical value sampled by the main CPU  241  is 0 to 5, symbols  180  are stopped in the display windows  231  to  235  so as to display a total of fifteen symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS). When a random numerical value sampled is 6 to 16, symbols  180  are stopped in the display windows  231  to  235  so as to display a total of fourteen symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS). 
     Likewise, when a random numerical value is 17 to 47, symbols  180  are stopped in the display windows  231  to  235  so as to display a total of thirteen symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS). When a random numerical value is 48 to 167, symbols  180  are stopped in the display windows  231  to  235  so as to display a total of twelve symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS). When a random numerical value is 168 to 401, symbols  180  are stopped in the display windows  231  to  235  so as to display a total of eleven symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS). When a random numerical value is 402 to 705, symbols  180  are stopped in the display windows  231  to  235  so as to display a total of ten symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS). When a random numerical value is 706 to 1110, symbols  180  are stopped in the display windows  231  to  235  so as to display a total of nine symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS). When a random numerical value is 1111 to 1616, symbols  180  are stopped in the display windows  231  to  235  so as to display a total of eight symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) When a random numerical value is 1617 to 2216, symbols  180  are stopped in the display windows  231  to  235  so as to display a total of seven symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) When a random numerical value is 2217 to 2816, symbols  180  are stopped in the display windows  231  to  235  so as to display a total of six symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS). When a random numerical value is 2817 to 3416, symbols  180  are stopped in the display windows  231  to  235  so as to display a total of five symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS). When a random numerical value is 3417 to 4116, symbols  180  are stopped in the display windows  231  to  235  so as to display a total of four symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS). When a random numerical value is 4117 to 5216, symbols  180  are stopped in the display windows  231  to  235  so as to display a total of three symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS). When a random numerical value is 5217 to 6216, symbols  180  are stopped in the display windows  231  to  235  so as to display a total of two symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS). When a random numerical value is 6217 to 8216, symbols  180  are stopped in the display windows  231  to  235  so as to display a total of one symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS). When a random numerical value sampled is 8217 to 11999, it means a loss and symbols  180  are stopped in the display windows  231  to  235  so as to display a total of zero symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS). 
     [Side-Bet Game Payout Table] 
     Next, a side-bet game payout table  133  will be described with reference to  FIG. 61 . The side-bet game payout table  133  indicates the number of coins to be paid out in accordance with the total number of symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) rearranged in the display windows  231  to  235  and the number of terminal devices participating in the side-bet game.  FIG. 61  shows a side-bet game payout table. 
     As a result of sampling with the COMMON SYMBOL number lottery table  132  shown in  FIG. 60 , coins are paid out in accordance with the total number of symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) which have been displayed in the display windows  231  to  235  based on the side-bet game payout table  133 . 
     To be more specific, in a case where the total number of symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) is zero, coins to be paid out is zero irrespective of the number of terminal devices participating in the side-bet game. In a case where the total number of symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) is one, coins to be paid out is five when three terminal devices participate in the side-bet game, five when two terminal devices participate in the side-bet game, and ten when one terminal device participates in the side-bet game. In a case where the total number of symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) is two, coins to be paid out is ten when three terminal devices participate in the side-bet game, ten when two terminal devices participate in the side-bet game, and twenty when one terminal device participates in the side-bet game. In a case where the total number of symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) is three, coins to be paid out is fifteen when three terminal devices participate in the side-bet game, twenty when two terminal devices participate in the side-bet game, and thirty when one terminal device participates in the side-bet game. In a case where the total number of symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) is four, coins to be paid out is twenty when three terminal devices participate in the side-bet game, twenty-five when two terminal devices participate in the side-bet game, and forty when one terminal device participates in the side-bet game. In a case where the total number of symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) is five, coins to be paid out is twenty-five when three terminal devices participate in the side-bet game, thirty when two terminal devices participate in the side-bet game, and fifty when one terminal device participates in the side-bet game. In a case where the total number of symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) is six, coins to be paid out is thirty when three terminal devices participate in the side-bet game, thirty-five when two terminal devices participate in the side-bet game, and sixty when one terminal device participates in the side-bet game. In a case where the total number of symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) is seven, coins to be paid out is thirty-five when three terminal devices participate in the side-bet game, forty when two terminal devices participate in the side-bet game, and seventy when one terminal device participates in the side-bet game. In a case where the total number of symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) is eight, coins to be paid out is forty when three terminal devices participate in the side-bet game, forty-five when two terminal devices participate in the side-bet game, and eighty when one terminal device participates in the side-bet game. In a case where the total number of symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) is nine, coins to be paid out is forty-five when three terminal devices participate in the side-bet game, fifty when two terminal devices participate in the side-bet game, and ninety when one terminal device participates in the side-bet game. 
     In a case where the total number of symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) is ten, coins to be paid out is fifty when three terminal devices participate in the side-bet game, and sixty when two terminal devices participate in the side-bet game. In a case where the total number of symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) is eleven, coins to be paid out is fifty-five when three terminal devices participate in the side-bet game, and seventy when two terminal devices participate in the side-bet game. In a case where the total number of symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) is twelve, coins to be paid out is sixty when three terminal devices participate in the side-bet game, and seventy-five when two terminal devices participate in the side-bet game. In a case where the total number of symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) is thirteen, coins to be paid out is sixty-five when three terminal devices participate in the side-bet game, and eighty when two terminal devices participate in the side-bet game. In a case where the total number of symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) is fourteen, coins to be paid out is seventy when three terminal devices participate in the side-bet game, and eighty-five when two terminal devices participate in the side-bet game. In a case where the total number of symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) is fifteen, coins to be paid out is seventy-five when three terminal devices participate in the side-bet game, and ninety when two terminal devices participate in the side-bet game. 
     [Display State of Display Windows  151  to  155  of Terminal Device] 
     The following details an exemplary display state of the lower image display panels  16 A,  16 B, and  16 C of the terminal devices  3 A,  3 B,  3 C during operations of the slot machine  1  and the controlling method thereof. Note that the following example deals with a case where symbols  180  are arranged in the display windows  151  to  155  by means of a video reel method, as shown in  FIGS. 74 and 78 . 
     The lower image display panel  16 A,  16 B,  16 C has display windows  151  to  155  where symbols  180  are arranged. The display windows  151  to  155  are disposed at a center part of the lower image display panel  16 A,  16 B,  16 C. In the display windows  151  to  155 , symbol columns (symbol lines A to E) each made up of symbols  180  are scrolled (see  FIG. 53 ). The display windows  151  to  155  are respectively divided into a-stages  151   a  to  155   a,  b-stages  151   b  to  155   b,  and c-stages  151   c  to  155   c.  The symbols  180  are stopped (arranged) in the stages  151   a  to  155   a,    151   b  to  155   b,  and  151   c  to  155   c,  respectively. For example, in  FIG. 53 , on the lower image display panel  16 A of the terminal device  3 A, a symbol of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) is stopped in the a-stage  151   a  of the display window  151 , a symbol of “J”  185  is stopped in the central stage  151   b  of the display window  151 , and a symbol of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) is stopped in the lower stage  153   c  of the display window  153 . In short, the display windows  151  to  155  displays a matrix  156  as an arrangement region made up of five columns and three rows. The matrix  156  however is not limited to the one with the five-columns/three-rows. 
     In a basic game (base game), a payout awarding process such as paying out coins is executed when a predetermined number of symbols  181  to  188  called scatter symbols are displayed on the lower image display panel  16 A,  16 B,  16 C as a winning combination. Scatter symbols are symbols which provide an effective result (such as awarding a payout, giving a bonus game, or the like) merely when a predetermined number of them are stopped on any of the display areas of the arrangement region made up of five columns and three rows of the display windows  151  to  155 . For example, when five symbols of “J”  185 , which is one of the scatter symbols shown in  FIG. 53 , are rearranged (displayed) in the display windows  151  to  155 , ten coins are paid out as a payout. When five symbols of “HEART”  182 , which is one of the scatter symbols, are rearranged (displayed) in the display windows  151  to  155 , fifty coins are paid out as a payout. 
     Although in this embodiment the symbols  181  to  188  are defined as scatter symbols, this is not limitative and only a specific symbol may be defined as a scatter symbol. Alternatively, a player may select a scatter symbol. It may also be possible that a coin payout process or the like is executed when a predetermined combination of symbols is stopped on a payline L extending horizontally through the b-stages ( 151   b  to  155   b ) of the display windows  151  to  155 . That is, the payline L is for determining a combination of symbols  180 . When symbols  180  are rearranged on the payline L and outside the payline L, only the symbols  180  rearranged on the payline are judged for a combination. It maybe possible that, when a winning combination is made as a result of the determination of a combination, a coin payout process or the like is executed. 
     [Display State of Display Windows  231  to  235  of Common display] 
       FIG. 54  shows a state where: symbols  180  are rearranged in the display windows  151  to  155  in a base game of the terminal devices  3 A,  3 B, and  3 C; among the rearranged symbols  180 , symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) are rearranged in the display windows  231  to  235  of the common display  201 ; and further the symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) are rearranged in the display windows  231  to  235  as a side-bet game. For example, as shown in  FIG. 53 , a base game is executed so that symbols  180  are sequentially rearranged in the display windows  151  to  155 . 
     Thus, all the symbols  180  are rearranged. More specifically, three symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) are arranged in the display windows  151  to  155  of the terminal device  3 A, two symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) are arranged in the display windows  151  to  155  of the terminal device  3 B, and five symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) are arranged in the display windows  151  to  155  of the terminal device  3 C. 
     A total of the symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) arranged in the terminal devices  3 A,  3 B, and  3 C are rearranged in the display windows  231  to  235  of the common display  201 . More specifically, ten symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) are arranged in the display windows  231  to  235  of the common display  201 . The symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) thus rearranged are scrolled and then rearranged again. More specifically, six symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) are rearranged in the display windows  231  to  235  of the common display  201 . 
     [Symbol Column, etc.] 
     Symbols  180  displayed in the display windows  151  to  155  of the lower image display panel  16 A,  16 B,  16 C of the terminal device  3 A,  3 B,  3 C form five symbol columns (symbol lines A to E) each including twenty-two symbols, as shown in  FIG. 55 . To each of the symbols  180  constituting the columns are given one of code numbers 00 to 21. Each of the symbol columns has a combination of picture symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 , “HEART”  182 , and “MOON”  183 , and letter symbols of “A”  184 , “J”  185 , “K”  186 , “Q”  187 , and “10”  188 . 
     Three successive symbols in the symbol columns are displayed (arranged) in the upper stages  151   a,    152   a,    153   a,    154   a,    155   a,  the center stages  151   b,    152   b,    153   b,    154   b,    155   b  and the lower stages  151   c,    152   c,    153   c,    154   c,    155   c  of the display windows  151  to  155 , respectively, to form a matrix of five columns and three rows in the display windows  151  to  155 . When a BET button is pushed and then a start button is pushed to start a game, the symbols forming the matrix are scrolled. When a predetermined period of time has elapsed after scroll is started, the scroll of each symbol is stopped (rearranged). 
     The symbols  181  to  188  are set as scatter symbols. Scatter symbols are such symbols that a player is put into an advantageous position when a predetermined number or more of them are displayed in the display windows  151  to  155 . The advantageous position is a state where coins corresponding to the scatter symbols are paid out, a state where the number of coins to be paid out is added to a credit, or the like. 
     For example, when five or more symbols of “MOON”  183  are stopped in the display windows  151  to  155 , thirty coins (game media) per bet are paid out. 
     In this embodiment, symbols  180  to be arranged in the display windows  231  to  235  of the common display  201  are only the symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 . A bonus payout is awarded in accordance with the number of symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181  arranged in the display windows  231  to  235 . 
     In this embodiment, a game value is paid out when a predetermined number of predetermined symbols are stopped in the display windows  151  to  155 . However, a bonus game may be given instead. The bonus game is a gaming state which is more advantageous than a basic game. For example, the bonus game is a free game. The free game is a game allowing a player to play a game a predetermined number of times without betting a coin. No particular limitation is put on the bonus game, as long as it is a gaming state advantageous to the player, that is, it is more advantageous than the basic game. For example, the bonus game may include a state where more game media are obtainable than in the basic game, a state where a game medium is obtainable with higher probability than in the basic game, a state where a game medium is less consumed than in the basic game, and the like. Specifically, a free game, a second game, a feature game, and the like may be mentioned as examples of the bonus game. 
     [Operation of Slot Machine] 
     Next, various processes executed in the slot machine  1  will be described. As the main CPU  41  and the main CPU  241  read out and execute programs stored in the ROM  42 , the RAM  43 , the ROM  242 , and the RAM  243 , processes relating to various games are run. 
     [Operation of Slot Machine: Boot Process] 
     The following describes a boot process which takes place in the slot machine  1 . Upon powering on the slot machine  1 , a boot processing routine shown in  FIG. 62  starts in the mother board  240  and gaming board  250  in the central control board  210 , and in the mother board  40  and the gaming board  50  in the terminal devices  3 A,  3 B, and  3 C. The memory cards  53  and  253  are assumed to be inserted into the card slots  53 S and  253 S of the gaming boards  50  and  250 , respectively. Further, the GALs  54  and  254  are assumed to be attached to the IC sockets  54 S and  254 S, respectively. 
     First, turning on the power switch of (powering on) the power units  45  and  245  boots the motherboards  40  and  240 , and the gaming boards  50  and  250 . Booting the motherboards  40  and  240  and the gaming boards  50  and  250  starts separate processes in parallel. Specifically, in the gaming board  50  and  250 , the CPUs  51  and  251  read out preliminary authentication programs stored in the boot ROMs  52  and  252 , respectively. Then, preliminary authentication is performed according to the read out programs so as to confirm and authenticate that no modification is made to authentication programs, before reading them into the motherboards  40  and  240 , respectively (S1). Meanwhile, the main CPUs  41  and  241  of the motherboards  40  and  240  run BIOS stored in the ROMs  42  and  242  to load into the RAMs  43  and  243  compressed data built in the BIOS, respectively (S2). Then, the main CPUs  41  and  241  run a procedure of the BIOS according to the data loaded into the RAMs  43  and  243  so as to diagnose and initialize various peripheral devices (S3). 
     The main CPUs  41  and  241 , which are respectively connected to the ROMs  55  and  255  of the gaming boards  50  and  250  via PCI buses, read out authentication programs stored in the ROMs  55  and  265  and store them into the RAMs  43  and  243  (S4). During this step, the main CPUs  41  and  241  each derives a checksum through ADDSUM method (a standard check function) which is adopted in a standard BIOS, and store the authentication programs into the RAMs  43  and  243  while confirming if the operation of storing is carried out without an error. 
     Next, the main CPUs  41  and  241  each checks what connects to the IDE bus. Then, the main CPUs  41  and  241  accesses, via the IDE buses, to the memory cards  53  and  253  inserted into the card slots  53 S and  253 S, and read out game programs and game system programs from the memory cards  53  and  253 . In this case, the main CPUs  41  and  241  each reads out four bytes of data constituting the game program and the game system program at one time. Next, in accordance with the authentication programs stored in the RAMs  43  and  243 , the main CPUs  41  and  241  authenticate the game program and the game system program read out to confirm and prove that these programs are not modified (S5). 
     When the authentication properly ends, the main CPUs  41  and  241  write and store the authenticated game programs and game system programs into RAMs  43  and  243  (S6). 
     Next, the main CPUs  41  and  241  accesses, via the PCI buses, to the GALs  54  and  254  attached to the IC socket  54 S and  254 S, and read out data from the GALs  54  and  254 , respectively. The data read out is then written and stored in the RAMs  43  and  243  (S7). 
     Next, the main CPUs  41  and  241  read out, via the PCI buses, country identification information stored in the ROMs  55  and  255  of the gaming boards  50  and  250 , respectively. The country identification information read out is then written and stored in the RAMs  43  and  243  (S8). 
     After this, the main CPUs  41  and  241  each performs an initial process shown in  FIG. 63 . 
     [Operation of Slot Machine: Initial Process] 
     The following describes an initial process which takes place in the slot machine  1 . When the boot process of  FIG. 62  is completed, the central control board  210  reads out from the RAM  243  a center side initial setting routine illustrated in  FIG. 63  and executes the routine. Meanwhile, the terminal device  3 A,  3 B,  3 C reads out from the RAM  43  a terminal side initial setting routine illustrated in  FIG. 63  and executes the routine. The center side and terminal side initial setting routines are executed in parallel. 
     First, the main CPU  41  of each of the terminal devices  3 A,  3 B, and  3 C checks operations of work memories such as the RAM  43 , various sensors, various driving mechanisms, and various decorative illuminations (A1). Then, the main CPU  41  determines if all the check results are normal (A2). If the main CPU  41  determines that the check results contains an error (A2: NO), the main CPU  41  outputs a signal notifying the error (hereinafter, error signal) to the central control board  210  (A3). Further, the main CPU  41  reports the error in the form of illuminating the lamp  30  or the like (A4), and then ends the routine. 
     On the other hand in A2, if the main CPU  41  determines that all the check results are normal (A2: YES), an initial setting signal is output to the central control board  210  (A5). Then, an initial setting signal is waited from the central control board  210  (A6, A7: NO). 
     The main CPU  241  of the central control board  210  receives signals from each of the terminals (B1). Then, the main CPU  241  determines whether a signal received is an error signal (B2). If the main CPU  241  determines that the signal is an error signal (B2: YES), the main CPU  241  outputs an error signal to a management server such as a not-shown host computer (B9) to report the error (B10), and ends the routine. 
     On the other hand in B2, if the main CPU  241  determines that the signal is not an error signal (B2:NO), the main CPU  241  determines whether a predetermined time (check time) has elapsed from the time of powering on (B3). If the main CPU  241  determines that the check time has elapsed (B3: YES), B9 is executed. On the other hand, if the main CPU  241  determines that the check time has not yet elapsed (B3:NO), it is determined whether an initial setting signal is received from each of the terminal devices  3 A,  3 B, and  3 C (B4). If the main CPU  241  determines that an initial setting signal from any one of the terminal devices  3 A,  3 B, and  3 C is not received (B4: NO), the process returns to B1. On the other hand, if it is determined that initial setting signals from all the terminal devices  3 A,  3 B, and  3 C are received (B4: YES), the main CPU  241  checks operations of work memories such as RAM  243  or the like, various sensors, various driving mechanisms, and various decorative illuminations (B5). Then, the main CPU  241  determines whether all the check results are normal (B6). If the main CPU  241  determines the check results contains an error (B6: NO), the main CPU  241  executes B9. 
     On the other hand in B6, if the main CPU  241  determines that all the check results are normal (B6: YES), the main CPU  241  outputs an initial setting signal to all the terminal devices  3 A,  3 B, and  3 C (B7), and causes the common display  201  to display a demo-screen (B8). Then, the main CPU  241  ends the routine. 
     In A7, the main CPU  41  of each of the terminal devices  3 A,  3 B, and  3 C determines that an initial setting signal is received from the central control board  210  (A7: YES), and causes the upper image display panel  33  to display a demo-screen (A8). The main CPU  41  then ends the routine. 
     [Operation of Slot Machine: Game Running Process] 
     After the terminal side initial setting routine of  FIG. 63 , the main CPU  41  of the terminal device  3 A,  3 B,  3 C reads out and executes the game program and the game system program sequentially, thereby executing a game running process shown in  FIG. 64 . A game running processing program is stored in the RAM  43 . 
     The main CPU  41  of the terminal device  3 A,  3 B,  3 C executes the game running process shown in  FIG. 64 . When the game running process is run, first, the main CPU  41  determines whether a coin is bet or not (C1). In this step, whether an input signal from the 1-BET switch  26 S entered by pressing of the 1-BET button  26  is received or not is determined. Meanwhile, whether an input signal from the maximum BET switch  27 S entered by pressing of the maximum BET button  27  is received or not is determined. If no coin is BET (C1: NO), C1 is repeated so that a standby state continues until a coin is bet. 
     On the other hand, if it is determined that a coin is bet (C1: YES), the credit value stored in the RAM  43  is reduced according to the number of coins bet (C2). When the number of coins bet surpasses the number of coins equivalent to the credit value stored in the RAM  43 , the credit value is reduced to zero and he step C3 is performed. When the number of coins bet exceeds the maximum number of coins bettable on one game (50 pieces in this embodiment), the credit value is reduced by fifty and the step C3 is performed. 
     Then, whether a spin button  23  is turned on or not is determined (C3). If the spin button  23  is not turned on (C3: NO), the process returns to C1. Here, if the spin button  23  is not turned on (for example, the spin button  23  is not turned on but a command to end the game is input), the reduction of the credit value in C2 is canceled. 
     On the other hand, when it is determined that the spin button  23  is turned on (C3: YES), a symbol determining process is executed (C4). In other words, a stop symbol determining program is executed based on the base game winning combination lottery table  130  stored in the RAM  43 , to determine fifteen symbols  180  to be stopped in the display windows  151  to  155 . 
     Then, symbols  180  in the symbol columns (symbol lines A to E) in the display windows  151  to  155  are scrolled (C5). When a predetermined period of time (base time) has elapsed after the scroll of the symbols  180  is started, the symbols  180  determined in C4 is stopped (rearranged) in the display windows  151  to  155  (A7). At this time, a scroll stop signal is transmitted. 
     Then, whether a win is made or not, that is, whether a combination of symbols  180  stopped in the display windows  151  to  155  is a winning combination listed in the base game payout table  131  or not, is determined (C7). When it is determined that the combination is not a winning combination (C7: NO), the process ends. When it is determined that the combination is a winning combination (C7: YES), a payout process is executed (C8). More specifically, the number of coins to be paid out which corresponds to a kind of the winning combination is calculated based on the base game payout table  131  shown in  FIG. 59 . When coins to be paid out are reserved, a credit value equivalent to the coins is added to the credit value stored in the RAM  43 . When the coins are paid out, a control signal is transmitted to the hopper  66  so that a predetermined number of coins are paid out to the coin tray  18 . That is, a base payout is awarded in accordance with the winning combination. 
     Then, whether a side-bet ON signal is received or not is determined (C9). When it is determined that the signal is not received (C9: NO), this process ends. When it is determined that the signal is received (C9: YES), the number of symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) stopped (rearranged) in the display windows  151  to  155  is calculated (C10). Then, a side-bet game start signal is transmitted (C11). The side-bet game start signal includes information about the number of symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) thus calculated. 
     Then, whether a side-bet game end signal is received or not is determined (C12). When it is determined that the signal is not received (C12: NO), reception of the side-bet game end signal is waited. When it is determined that the signal is received (C12: YES), a payout process is executed (C13) based on information about the number of coins (a bonus payout from the side-bet game) included in the side-bet game end signal received in E9 of a side-bet game running process which will be described later. Then, this process once ends. 
     [Operation of Slot Machine: Side-Bet Process] 
     The main CPU  41  of each of the terminal devices  3 A,  3 B, and  3 C executes a side-bet process shown in  FIG. 65  in parallel with the game running process. In the side-bet process, whether or not to participate in a side-bet game, which is played using the common display  201 , is determined. A side-bet processing program is stored in the RAM  43 .  FIG. 65  is a flowchart showing a side-bet process. 
     First, when a side-bet process is executed, a side-bet period starts (D1). The period starts since the spin button  23  is turned on. Then, whether the scroll stop signal, which has been transmitted in C6 of the game running process, is received or not is determined (D2). When the scroll stop signal is not received (D2: NO), the scroll stop signal is waited. When the scroll stop signal is received (D2: YES), a side-bet period ends (D3). 
     Then, whether there has been a side-bet during the side-bet period or not is determined (D4). More specifically, whether a coin has been inserted through the side-bet coin receiving slot  90  and an input signal indicating that a coin has been inserted is received from a not-shown recognizer or not is determined. 
     When it is determined that there has not been a side-bet (D4: NO), a side-bet OFF signal is transmitted (D5) When it is determined that there has been a side-bet (D4: YES), a side-bet ON signal is transmitted (D6). Then, this process once ends. 
     According to the above-described structure, a player is allowed to participate in a side-bet game until rearrangement is completed in each of the terminal devices  3 A,  3 B, and  3 C. Therefore, the player can participate in the side-bet game while watching how the symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) used for the side-bet game are rearranged. 
     [Operation of Slot Machine: Side-Bet Game Running Process] 
     After the center side initial setting routine shown in  FIG. 63  ends, the main CPU  241  of the central control board  210  reads out and executes the game program and the game system program sequentially, thereby running the side-bet game running process shown in  FIG. 66 . A side-bet game running processing program is stored in the RAM  243 . 
     When the side-bet game running process is executed, first, whether a side-bet OFF signal or a side-bet game start signal from the terminal device  3 A is received or not is determined (E1). When the signal is not received (E1: NO), the step E1 is repeated. When the signal is received (E1: YES), whether a side-bet OFF signal or a side-bet game start signal from the terminal device  3 B is received or not is determined (E2). When the signal is not received (E2: NO), the step E2 is repeated. When the signal is received (E2: YES), whether a side-bet OFF signal or a side-bet game start signal from the terminal device  3 C is received or not is determined (E3). When the signal is not received (E3: NO), the step E3 is repeated. 
     When the signal is received (E3: YES), the total number of symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) is calculated from information included in the side-bet start signals transmitted from the terminal devices  3 A,  3 B, and  3 C. A total number of symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) thus calculated are arranged in the display windows  231  to  235  of the common display (E4). 
     Next, a COMMON SYMBOL number determining process is executed (E5). More specifically, a COMMON SYMBOL number determining program is executed based on a COMMON SYMBOL number lottery table  132  stored in the RAM  243 , so that the number of symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) to be stopped in the display windows  231  to  235  is determined. When the number of symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) thus determined is greater than the total number of symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) indicated by the information included in the side-bet start signals and the like which have been transmitted from the respective terminal devices  3 A,  3 B, and  3 C, the number of symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) determined by the COMMON SYMBOL number determining process is a total number of the symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) indicated by the information included in the side-bet start signals and the like which have been transmitted from the respective terminal devices  3 A,  3 B, and  3 C. 
     Then, the symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) arranged in the display windows  231  to  235  are scrolled (E6). When a predetermined period of time (base time) has elapsed after the scroll of the symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) is started, symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) the number of which has been determined in E5 are stopped (rearranged) in the display windows  231  to  235  (E7). 
     Then, whether symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) are rearranged in the display windows  231  to  235  or not, and more specifically how many symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) are stopped in the display windows  231  to  235 , is determined (E8). When it is determined that symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) are not rearranged (E8: NO), the process goes to E10. When it is determined that symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) are rearranged (E8: YES), the number of coins to be paid out is calculated based on the side-bet game payout table  133  (E9). The number of coins to be paid out is according to the number of symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) stopped in the display windows  231  to  235  and the number of terminal devices having transmitted the side-bet game start signals (that is, the number of terminal devices having participated in the side-bet game). Then, a side-bet game end signal is transmitted (E10). The side-bet game end signal includes information about the number of coins to be paid out which has been calculated in E9. Then, this process once ends. 
     In the above-described structure, it is possible: to rearrange, among the symbols  180  rearranged in the terminal devices  3 A,  3 B, and  3 C which have selected to participate in the side-bet game, the symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) on the common display  201 ; to rearrange, on the common display  201 , the symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) rearranged on the common display  201 ; and to award the bonus payout in accordance with the number of symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) rearranged on the common display  201 . This may enable a player to enjoy the side-bet game using rearrangement on the common display  201 . In addition, a player playing on the terminal device  3 A,  3 B, or  3 C which has made a side-bet is given a bonus payout as a result of a side-bet game, which bonus payout is affected by a game result of a player playing on a neighboring terminal device  3 A,  3 B, or  3 C. Therefore, the player making a side-bet can sometimes enjoy a side-bet game while feeling some togetherness (unity) with players playing on neighboring terminal devices  3 A,  3 B,  3 C. 
     [Operation of Slot Machine: Effect Operation] 
     When the above-described various processes are executed in the slot machine  1 , results or contents corresponding to the processes are, in the form of commands or data, input to respective actuators. For example, when a coin is inserted into the side-bet coin receiving slot  90  of each of the terminal devices  3 A,  3 B, and  3 C to make a side-bet, the main CPU  41  controls the lamp  30  to blink the lamp  30 . In addition, when the side-bet is made, the main CPU  41  displays an effect image on the upper image display panel  33 . Moreover, the main CPU  41  performs effect presentation by an audio output from the speaker  29 , together with or independently of the effect made on the upper image display panel  33 . 
     In the detailed description provided above, characteristic parts have mainly been described in order that the present invention can be understood more easily. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiment shown in the detailed description provided above, and may be applied to other embodiments. The scope of application of the present invention should be construed as broadly as possible. Terms and phraseologies adopted in the present specification are for correctly illustrating the present invention, not for limiting. It would be easy for those skilled in the art to derive, from the spirit of the invention described in the present specification, other structures, systems, methods and the like which are included in the spirit of the invention. Accordingly, it should be considered that claims cover equivalent structures, too, without departing from the technical idea of the present invention. An object of the abstract is to enable an intellectual property office, general public institutions, persons belonging to the art but not familiar with patent, legal terms, or technical terms to quickly understand technical contents and essences of the present invention through a simple research. Therefore, the abstract is not intended to limit the scope of the invention that should be evaluated by the claims. In addition, it is desirable to sufficiently refer to already-disclosed documents and the like, in order to fully understand the objects and effects of the present invention. 
     The detailed description provided above includes a process which is executed on a computer or a computer network. The descriptions and expressions provided above are given for the purpose of allowing those skilled in the art to understand the invention most effectively. In the specification, respective steps used to induce one result, or blocks having a predetermined processing function should be understood as a process having no self-contradiction. In addition, in each step or block, an electrical or magnetic signal is transmitted/received, recorded, and the like. In a process in each step or block, such a signal is embodied in the form of a bit, a value, a symbol, a character, a term, a number, and the like. However, it should be noted that they have been used simply because they are convenient for explanations. A process in each step or block has sometimes been described using an expression which is common to a human behavior. However, in principle, the process described in the specification is executed by a variety of devices. In addition, other structures necessary for each step or block are apparent from the above description. 
     Sixth Embodiment 
     The following describes a sixth embodiment of a gaming machine and a playing method thereof according to the present invention. Note that reference numbers and symbols given to members and steps of flowcharts are only applicable to those described within the present embodiment, and do not represent the members or the steps of the other embodiments. 
     As shown in  FIG. 67 , the present invention is a gaming machine including: a common display which arranges a plurality of symbols in a matrix of arrangement areas; a plurality of terminal devices each having a terminal display which arranges a plurality of symbols in a matrix of arrangement areas and a side-bet device which selects to or not to participate in a game played on the common display, the terminal device rearranging a plurality of symbols in the arrangement areas on the terminal display and running a game to award a payout in accordance with a relation among the rearranged symbols; and a controller. The present invention is embodied as a control method for playing the gaming machine, including the steps of: putting the side-bet device into a selectable state until the symbols are rearranged in the arrangement areas in the plurality of terminal devices; rearranging the symbols in the arrangement areas in the plurality of terminal devices; awarding a base payout in accordance with a relation among the symbols rearranged in the arrangement areas; accumulatively storing a base payout awarded when there is a predetermined relation among the symbols rearranged in the arrangement areas in the terminal device selected by the side-bet device; rearranging, on the common display, predetermined ones of the symbols rearranged in the terminal device selected by the side-bet device; rearranging the predetermined symbols thus rearranged, in the arrangement areas on the common display; and in accordance with the number of the predetermined symbols rearranged, awarding all or a part of the accumulatively-stored base payouts to the terminal device selected by the side-bet device. 
     In this embodiment, the “side-bet game” is a sideshow game which is played independently of a main plot of a base game. 
     A gaming machine  100  which runs the above game includes a controller  111 , a common display  101 , and a plurality of terminal devices  102 , as shown in  FIG. 68 . The common display  101  is adapted to arrange a plurality of symbols  180 . 
     The controller  111  has a side-bet game running unit  113 , a COMMON SYMBOL number determining unit  114 , a payout stock unit  117 , and a side-bet game payout determining unit  115 . The terminal device  102  has a game starting unit  105 , a side-bet device  104 , a terminal controller  110 , a terminal display  103 , a base payout awarding unit  108 , and a side-bet game payout awarding unit  116 . 
     In addition, the terminal controller  110  has a game running unit  106 , a side-bet receiving unit  112 , a COMMON SYMBOL determining unit  109 , and a win determining unit  107 . 
     Here, “arranging” means making a state where symbols  180  are visible to a player. For example, in  FIG. 67 , it means making a state where symbols  180  are displayed in display windows  151  to  155 . Arranging symbols  180  again after dismissing symbols  180  is called “rearranging”. 
     The common display  101  and the terminal display  103  may have a mechanical structure adopting a reel device which rotates a reel to arrange symbols  180 . Alternatively, the common display  101  and the terminal display  103  may have an electrical structure in which a video reel is displayed as an image to thereby arrange symbols  180 . Further, a combination of the mechanical structure (reel) and the electric structure (video reel) may also be possible. Examples of the electrical structure include a liquid crystal display device, a CRT (cathode-ray tube), a plasma display device, and the like. A specific structure of the common display  101  and the terminal display  103  will be detailed later. 
     [Controller  111  and Terminal Controller  110 ] 
     The controller  111  and the terminal controller  110  are adapted to perform: a first process of putting the side-bet device  104  into a selectable state until the symbols  180  are rearranged in the arrangement areas in the plurality of terminal devices  102 ; a second process of rearranging the symbols  180  in the arrangement areas in the plurality of terminal devices  102 ; a third process of awarding a base payout in accordance with a relation among the symbols  180  rearranged in the arrangement areas; a fourth process of accumulatively storing a base payout awarded when there is a predetermined relation among the symbols  180  rearranged in the arrangement areas in the terminal device  102  selected by the side-bet device  104 ; a fifth process of rearranging, on the common display  101 , predetermined ones of the symbols  180  rearranged in the terminal device  102  selected by the side-bet device  104 ; a sixth process of rearranging the predetermined symbols thus rearranged, in the arrangement areas on the common display  101 ; and a seventh process of, in accordance with the number of the predetermined symbols rearranged, awarding all or a part of the accumulatively-stored base payouts to the terminal device  102  selected by the side-bet device  104 . In other words, the controller  111  and the terminal controller  110  include seven process stages. 
     [Operations of Controller  111  and Terminal Controller  110 ] 
     A description will be given to operations of the controller  111  and the terminal controller  110  having the above-described structure. First, the side-bet device  104  is put into a selectable state until symbols  180  are rearranged in the arrangement areas in the plurality of terminal devices  102 . In short, the terminal controller  110  performs the first process. 
     Then, after a game value is inserted, triggered by a game start signal from the game starting unit  105 , the game running unit  106  starts to variably display the symbols  180  which have been arranged on the terminal display  103 . In short, the terminal controller  110  performs the second process. 
     Then, in accordance with a relation among the symbols  180  thus rearranged, the win determining unit  107  awards a base payout through the base payout awarding unit  108 . In short, the terminal controller  110  performs the third process. 
     Then, the side-bet receiving unit  112  determines whether the side-bet device  104  has selected to participate in a side-bet game or not. When it is determined that the side-bet device  104  has selected to participate, the win determining unit  107  accumulatively stores, into the payout stock unit  117 , a base payout which is awarded when a relation among the rearranged symbols is a combination of symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 . In short, the terminal controller  110  and the controller  111  perform the fourth process. 
     Then, when the side-bet receiving unit  112  determines that the side-bet device  104  has selected to participate in a side-bet game, the COMMON SYMBOL determining unit  109  detects a total number of symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181  among the symbols  180  rearranged on the terminal display  103 , and rearranges them on the common display  101 . In short, the controller  111  and the terminal controller  110  perform the fifth process. 
     Then, the side-bet game running unit  113  rearranges, on the common display  101 , the symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181  rearranged. In short, the controller  111  performs the sixth process. 
     Then, the COMMON SYMBOL number determining unit  114  detects the number of symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181  thus rearranged. In accordance with the base payout stoked in the payout stock unit  117  and the number of detected symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 , the side-bet game payout determining unit  115  calculates a payout to be awarded to the terminal device  102  having participated in the side-bet game. Then, the side-bet game payout awarding unit  116  awards the payout thus calculated. In short, the controller  111  and the terminal controller  110  perform the seventh process. 
     Each block of the controller  111  and the terminal controller  110  may be formed by hardware or by software as needed. 
     As seen from the above-described operations, the present invention a gaming machine including: a common display  101  which arranges a plurality of symbols  180  in a matrix of arrangement areas; a plurality of terminal devices  102  each having a terminal display  103  which arranges a plurality of symbols in a matrix of arrangement areas and a side-bet device  104  which selects to or not to participate in a game played on the common display  101 , the terminal device  102  rearranging a plurality of symbols  180  in the arrangement areas on the terminal display  103  and running a game to award a payout in accordance with a relation among the rearranged symbols  180 ; and a controller  111  and a terminal controller  110 . The present invention is embodied as a control method for playing the gaming machine  100 , including the steps of: putting the side-bet device  104  into a selectable state until the symbols  180  are rearranged in the arrangement areas in the plurality of terminal devices  102 ; rearranging the symbols  180  in the arrangement areas in the plurality of terminal devices  102 ; awarding a base payout in accordance with a relation among the symbols  180  rearranged in the arrangement areas; accumulatively storing a base payout awarded when there is a predetermined relation among the symbols  180  rearranged in the arrangement areas in the terminal device  102  selected by the side-bet device  104 ; rearranging, on the common display  101 , predetermined ones of the symbols  180  rearranged in the terminal device  102  selected by the side-bet device  104 ; rearranging the predetermined symbols thus rearranged, in the arrangement areas on the common display  101 ; and in accordance with the number of the predetermined symbols rearranged, awarding all or a part of the accumulatively-stored base payouts to the terminal device  102  selected by the side-bet device  104 . 
     In the above-described structure, a player playing on the terminal device  3 A,  3 B,  3 C which has made a side-bet is given a payout as a result of a side-bet game, which payout is affected by game results of players playing on neighboring terminal devices  3 A,  3 B,  3 C. Therefore, the player making a side-bet can sometimes enjoy a side-bet game while feeling some togetherness (unity) with players playing on neighboring terminal devices  3 A,  3 B,  3 C. In addition, a player can enjoy the side-bet game without inserting a new game value, because a result of a game played in the terminal device  3 A,  3 B,  3 C having made a side-bet (a payout resulting from achievement of a predetermined combination) is used for a payout of the side-bet game. 
     Embodiment 
     [Mechanical Structure of Slot Machine  1 ] 
     The following describes an embodiment where the gaming machine  100  having the above-described structure is applied to a slot machine  1  and specifically structured in mechanical, electrical, and operational senses. 
     As shown in  FIG. 94 , the slot machine  1  is connected in communication with terminal devices  3 A,  3 B, and  3 C which run games independently of one another. The slot machine  1  has a common display  201  which displays an image relating to a shared game, a rail  271  which moves the common display  201  to just above each of the terminal devices  3 A,  3 B, and  3 C, and a not-shown drive motor  270 . The common display  201 , which serves as a common display to arrange symbols  180 , is equivalent to the common display  101  shown in  FIG. 68 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 95 , the terminal device  3 A,  3 B,  3 C has a cabinet  11 , a top box  12  placed on an upper side of the cabinet  11 , and a main door  13  provided on a front surface of the cabinet  11 . A lower image display panel  16 A,  16 B,  16 C is provided on the main door  13 . The lower image display panel  16 A,  16 B,  16 C has a transparent liquid crystal panel which displays various information. The lower image display panel  16 A,  16 B,  16 C displays display windows  151  to  155  (a matrix  156 ) where a plurality of symbols  180  are arranged. In addition, the lower image display panel  16 A,  16 B,  16 C displays as needed game-related various information, effect images, and the like. The common display  201  has the same structure. The terminal device  3 A,  3 B,  3 C is equivalent to the terminal device  102  shown in  FIG. 68 . The matrix  156  with five columns and three rows in the display windows  151  to  155  are equivalent to the matrix of arrangement areas. The lower image display panel  16 A,  16 B,  16 C serving as a terminal display is equivalent to the terminal display  103  shown in  FIG. 68 . 
     Below the lower image display panel  16 A,  16 B,  16 C, provided are a control panel  20 , a coin receiving slot  21 , and a bill validator  22 . The control panel  20  is provided with buttons  23  to  27 . These buttons  23  to  27  allow a player to input commands relating to a game progress. The coin receiving slot  21  enables coins to be received into the cabinet  11 . 
     The control panel  20  includes a spin button  23 , a change button  24 , a cashout button  25 , a 1-BET button  26 , a MAX-BET button  27 , and a side-bet button  90 . The spin button  23  is for inputting a command to start scrolling the symbols  180 . The change button  24  is used to ask a staff person of the gaming facility for money exchange. The cash out button  25  is for inputting a command to pay out coins corresponding to the total credit-value into the coin tray  18 . The side-bet button  90  allows a player to input a command to participate in a side-bet game. The control panel  20  which performs a game in the terminal device is equivalent to the game starting unit  105  shown in  FIG. 68 . The side-bet button  90  is equivalent to the side-bet device  104  shown in  FIG. 68 . 
     [Electrical Structure of Slot Machine] 
       FIGS. 99 and 100  are block diagrams each illustrating an electrical structure of the entire slot machine  1 . 
     [Electrical Structure of Terminal Device] 
       FIG. 99  is a block diagram showing an electrical structure of the terminal device  3 A,  3 B,  3 C. As illustrated in  FIG. 99 , a control unit is provided within the cabinet  11 . The control unit includes a motherboard  40 , a main body PCB (Printed Circuit Board)  60 , a gaming board  50 , a door PCB  80 , various switches, sensors, or the like. 
     The motherboard  40  has a main CPU  41 , a ROM (Read Only Memory)  42 , a RAM (Random Access Memory)  43 , and a communication interface  44 . The motherboard  40  acting as a controller corresponds to the terminal controller  110  shown in  FIG. 68 . 
     The main CPU  41  controls the entire terminal device  3 A,  3 B,  3 C. In particular, the main CPU  41  controls the following operations of: outputting a command signal for making the graphic board  68  variably display symbols  180 , at a time when the spin button  23  is pressed after betting of credit; determining symbols  180  to be stopped after the variable-displaying of symbols  180 ; and stopping the symbols  180  thus determined in the display windows  151  to  155 . The main CPU  41  corresponds to the game running unit  106 , the COMMON SYMBOL determining unit  109 , the win determining unit  107 , and the side-bet receiving unit  112  shown in  FIG. 68 . 
     The hopper  66  is mounted within the cabinet  11  and pays out a predetermined number of coins through a coin outlet  19  into the coin tray  18 , based on a control signal output from the main CPU  41 . The coin sensor  67  is provided inside the coin outlet  19 . When the coin sensor  67  senses that a predetermined number of coins have been delivered from the coin outlet  19 , the coin sensor  67  outputs a signal to be input to the main CPU  41 . The hopper  66  corresponds to the base payout awarding unit  108  and the side-bet game payout awarding unit  116  shown in  FIG. 68 . 
     A control panel  20 , a reverter  21 S, a coin counter  21 C, and a cold cathode tube  81  are connected to the door PCB  80 . The control panel  20  is provided with: a spin switch  23 S associated with the spin button  23 ; a change switch  24 S associated with the change button  24 ; a cashout switch  25 S associated with the cashout button  25 ; a 1-BET switch  26 S associated with the 1-BET button  26 ; a MAX-BET switch  27 S associated with the MAX-BET button  27 ; and a side-bet switch  90 S. Each of the switches  23 S,  24 S,  25 S,  26 S,  27 S and  90 S outputs a signal to the main CPU  41 , when a player presses the associated one of the buttons  23  to  27  and  90 . 
     The coin counter  21 C is provided within the coin receiving slot  21 , and identifies whether a coin inserted into the coin receiving slot  21  by the player is genuine. A coin other than a genuine coin is discharged from the coin outlet  19 . The coin counter  21 C outputs an input signal to the main CPU  41  upon detection of a genuine coin. 
     The reverter  21 S is operated based on a control signal output from the main CPU  41 . The reverter  21 S distributes a coin, which the coin counter  21 C has recognized as a genuine coin, to the hopper  66  or a cash box (not shown) mounted in the terminal device  3 A,  3 B,  3 C. In other words, when the hopper  66  is full of coins, genuine coins are distributed into the cash box by the reverter  21 S. On the other hand, when the hopper  66  is not yet full of coins, genuine coins are distributed into the hopper  66 . The cold cathode tube  81  functions as a backlight mounted to rear sides of the lower image display panel  16 A,  16 B,  16 C and the upper image display panel  33 . The cold cathode tube  81  turns on based on a control signal output from the main CPU  41 . 
     [Base Game Winning Combination Lottery Table] 
     A base game winning combination lottery table  130  which is used in a game running process executed by the terminal device  3 A,  3 B,  3 C will be described with reference to  FIG. 71 .  FIG. 71  is an explanatory view showing a base game winning combination lottery table. The base game winning combination lottery table  130  is stored in the RAM  43 , and read during a symbol determining process of the game running process which will be described later. 
     As shown in  FIG. 71 , a random numerical value used in the base game winning combination lottery table  130  ranges from 0 to 5998. When a random numerical value sampled by the main CPU  41  is 0 to 22, a winning combination of “HEART”  182  is made, and five symbols  180  presenting “HEART”  182  are stopped in the display windows  151  to  155 . When a random numerical value sampled by the main CPU  41  is 23 to 51, a winning combination of “MOON”  183  is made, and five symbols  180  of “MOON”  183  are stopped in the display windows  151  to  155 . Likewise, when a random numerical value is 52 to 107, a winning combination of “K”  186  is made. When a random numerical value is  108  to  163 , a winning combination of five symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) is made. When a random numerical value is 164 to 263, a winning combination of “A”  184  is made. When a random numerical value is 264 to 407, a winning combination of “Q”  187  is made. When a random numerical value is 408 to 707, a winning combination of four symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) is made. When a random numerical value is 708 to 1007, a winning combination of “J”  185  is made. When a random numerical value is 1008 to 1507, a winning combination of “10”  188  is made. When a random numerical value sampled by the main CPU  41  is 1508 to 5998, it means a loss, and a losing combination of symbols  180 , which is different from any of the above-mentioned winning combinations, is stopped in the display windows  151  to  155 . 
     Here, making any of these combinations is referred to as making a win. 
     [Base Game Payout Table] 
     Next, a base game payout table  131  will be described with reference to  FIG. 72 . The base game payout table  131  indicates the number of coins to be paid out for a winning combination determined by the base game winning combination lottery table shown in  FIG. 71 .  FIG. 72  shows a base game payout table. The base game payout table is stored in the RAM  43 , and read during a payout process of the game running process which will be described later. 
     For a result of sampling using the base game winning combination lottery table  130 , coins are paid out in accordance with a winning combination displayed in the display windows  151  to  155  based on the base game payout table  131 . 
     More specifically, when five symbols  180  of “HEART”  182  are stopped in the display windows  151  to  155 , fifty coins are paid out. When five symbols  180  of “MOON”  183  are stopped in the display windows  151  to  155 , thirty coins are paid out as a payout. Likewise, when five symbols  180  of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) are stopped in the display windows  151  to  155 , twenty-five coins are paid out as a payout. When five symbols  180  of “K”  186  are stopped in the display windows  151  to  155 , twenty-five coins are paid out as a payout. When five symbols  180  of “A”  184  are stopped in the display windows  151  to  155 , twenty coins are paid out as a payout. When five symbols  180  of “Q”  187  are stopped in the display windows  151  to  155 , fifteen coins are paid out as a payout. When four symbols  180  of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) are stopped in the display windows  151  to  155 , ten coins are paid out as a payout. When five symbols  180  of “J”  185  are stopped in the display windows  151  to  155 , ten coins are paid out as a payout. When five symbols  180  of “10”  188  are stopped in the display windows  151  to  155 , five coins are paid out as a payout. When a lottery results in losing, and a losing combination of symbols  180 , which is different from any of the above-mentioned winning combinations, is stopped in the display windows  151  to  155 , zero coin is paid out as a payout. Note that, when one coin is inserted for a game, the above-mentioned numbers of coins are paid out as a payout. When two or more coins are inserted for one game, the numbers of coins actually paid out is the number of inserted coins being multiplied by the above-mentioned number of coins paid out. 
     [Electrical Structure of Central Control Board] 
       FIG. 100  is a block diagram showing an electrical structure of the central control board  210 . A control unit is provided within the central control board  210 . The control unit includes a motherboard  240 , a gaming board  250 , an actuator, and the like. The central control board  210  functioning as a controller corresponds to the controller  111  shown in  FIG. 68 . 
     The motherboard  240  has a main CPU  241 , a ROM (Read Only Memory)  242 , a RAM (Random Access Memory)  243 , a power unit  245 , a graphic board  268 , a common display  201  connected to the graphic board  268 , and a communication interface  244 . The RAM  243  stores therein a COMMON SYMBOL number determining program, a COMMON SYMBOL number lottery table  132 , a side-bet game payout table  133 , and a side-bet game running processing program. The RAM  243  also stores therein a payout resulting from a side-bet game, as a side-bet credit value. Here, the side-bet credit value means an accumulated value of base payouts which are paid out when a predetermined winning combination is achieved in a base game played in the terminal device  3 A,  3 B,  3 C. This value is accumulated as a payout of the side-bet game. The RAM  243  corresponds to the payout stock unit  117  shown in  FIG. 68 . 
     In this embodiment, moreover, symbols  180  displayed in the display windows  231  to  235  are symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 . In other words, the symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181  correspond to the predetermined ones of symbols  180  rearranged in the terminal devices  3 A,  3 B and  3 C, which one are arranged in the display windows  231  to  235 . 
     The main CPU  241  controls the entire central control board  210 . In particular, the main CPU  241  controls the following operations of: outputting a command signal for making the graphic board  268  variably display symbols  180 , at a time when a game using the common display  201  is run; determining symbols  180  to be stopped after the variable-displaying of symbols  180 ; and stopping the symbols  180  thus determined in the display windows  231  to  235 . The main CPU  241  corresponds to the side-bet game running unit  113  shown in  FIG. 68 . The main CPU  241  also corresponds to the COMMON SYMBOL number determining unit  114 , and the side-bet game payout determining unit  115  shown in  FIG. 68 . 
     [Common Symbol Number Lottery Table] 
     With reference to  FIG. 73 , a description will be given to a COMMON SYMBOL number lottery table  132  by which the number of symbols of COMMON SYMBOL (CS) to be arranged on the common display  201  are determined.  FIG. 73  is an explanatory view showing a COMMON SYMBOL number lottery table. The COMMON SYMBOL number lottery table  132  is stored in the RAM  243 , and read during a COMMON SYMBOL number determining process of the side-bet game running process which will be described later. 
     The COMMON SYMBOL number lottery table  132  has a random numerical value table corresponding to the number of side-betting terminal devices which has been calculated in a later-described side-bet game running process. First, a random numerical value table for two or three side-betting terminal devices will be described. As shown in  FIG. 73 , a random numerical value adopted in the COMMON SYMBOL number lottery table  132  ranges from 0 to 11999. When a random numerical value sampled through the main CPU  241  is 0 to 5, symbols  180  are stopped in the display windows  231  to  235  so as to display a total of fifteen symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS). When a random numerical value sampled is 6 to 16, symbols  180  are stopped in the display windows  231  to  235  so as to display a total of fourteen symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS). 
     Likewise, when a random numerical value is 17 to 47, symbols  180  are stopped in the display windows  231  to  235  so as to display a total of thirteen symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS). When a random numerical value is 48 to 167, symbols  180  are stopped in the display windows  231  to  235  so as to display a total of twelve symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS). When a random numerical value is 168 to 401, symbols  180  are stopped in the display windows  231  to  235  so as to display a total of eleven symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) When a random numerical value is 402 to 705, symbols  180  are stopped in the display windows  231  to  235  so as to display a total of ten symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS). When a random numerical value is 706 to 1110, symbols  180  are stopped in the display windows  231  to  235  so as to display a total of nine symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS). When a random numerical value is 1111 to 1616, symbols  180  are stopped in the display windows  231  to  235  so as to display a total of eight symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) When a random numerical value is 1617 to 2216, symbols  180  are stopped in the display windows  231  to  235  so as to display a total of seven symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS). When a random numerical value is 2217 to 2816, symbols  180  are stopped in the display windows  231  to  235  so as to display a total of six symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) When a random numerical value is 2817 to 3416, symbols  180  are stopped in the display windows  231  to  235  so as to display a total of five symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS). When a random numerical value is 3417 to 4116, symbols  180  are stopped in the display windows  231  to  235  so as to display a total of four symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS). When a random numerical value is 4117 to 5216, symbols  180  are stopped in the display windows  231  to  235  so as to display a total of three symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS). When a random numerical value is 5217 to 6216, symbols  180  are stopped in the display windows  231  to  235  so as to display a total of two symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS). When a random numerical value is 6217 to 8216, symbols  180  are stopped in the display windows  231  to  235  so as to display a total of one symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS). When a random numerical value sampled is 8217 to 11999, it means a loss and symbols  180  are stopped in the display windows  231  to  235  so as to display a total of zero symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS). 
     Next, a random numerical value table for one side-betting terminal device will be described. 
     As shown in  FIG. 73 , random numerical values adopted in the COMMON SYMBOL number lottery table  132  ranges from 0 to 11999. When a random numerical value sampled through the main CPU  241  is 0 to 167, symbols  180  are stopped in the display windows  231  to  235  so as to display a total of nine symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS). 
     When a random numerical value sampled is 168 to 505, symbols  180  are stopped in the display windows  231  to  235  so as to display a total of eight symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) 
     Likewise, when a random numerical value sampled is 506 to 1016, symbols  180  are stopped in the display windows  231  to  235  so as to display a total of seven symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS). When a random numerical value sampled is 1017 to 2016, symbols  180  are stopped in the display windows  231  to  235  so as to display a total of six symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS). When a random numerical value sampled is 2017 to 3016, symbols  180  are stopped in the display windows  231  to  235  so as to display a total of five symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS). When a random numerical value sampled is 3017 to 4016, symbols  180  are stopped in the display windows  231  to  235  so as to display a total of four symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS). When a random numerical value sampled is 4017 to 5216, symbols  180  are stopped in the display windows  231  to  235  so as to display a total of three symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS). When a random numerical value sampled is 5217 to 6216, symbols  180  are stopped in the display windows  231  to  235  so as to display a total of two symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS). When a random numerical value sampled is 6217 to 8216, symbols  180  are stopped in the display windows  231  to  235  so as to display a total of one symbol of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS). When a random numerical value sampled is 8217 to 11999, it means a loss and symbols  180  are stopped in the display windows  231  to  235  so as to display a total of zero symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS). 
     [Side-Bet Game Payout Table] 
     Next, a side-bet game payout table  133  will be described with reference to  FIG. 104 . The side-bet game payout table  133  indicates the number of coins to be paid out in accordance with the total number of symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) rearranged in the display windows  231  to  235  and the number of terminal devices participating in the side-bet game.  FIG. 104  shows a side-bet game payout table. 
     As a result of sampling with the COMMON SYMBOL number lottery table  132  shown in  FIG. 73 , coins are paid out in accordance with the total number of symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) which have been displayed in the display windows  231  to  235  based on the side-bet game payout table  133 . 
     To be more specific, in a case where the total number of symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) is zero, coins to be paid out is zero irrespective of the number of terminal devices participating in the side-bet game. In a case where the total number of symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) is one, coins to be paid out is five when three terminal devices participate in the side-bet game, five when two terminal devices participate in the side-bet game, and ten when one terminal device participates in the side-bet game. In a case where the total number of symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) is two, coins to be paid out is ten when three terminal devices participate in the side-bet game, ten when two terminal devices participate in the side-bet game, and twenty when one terminal device participates in the side-bet game. In a case where the total number of symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) is three, coins to be paid out is fifteen when three terminal devices participate in the side-bet game, twenty when two terminal devices participate in the side-bet game, and thirty when one terminal device participates in the side-bet game. In a case where the total number of symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) is four, coins to be paid out is twenty when three terminal devices participate in the side-bet game, twenty-five when two terminal devices participate in the side-bet game, and forty when one terminal device participates in the side-bet game. In a case where the total number of symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) is five, coins to be paid out is twenty-five when three terminal devices participate in the side-bet game, thirty when two terminal devices participate in the side-bet game, and fifty when one terminal device participates in the side-bet game. In a case where the total number of symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) is six, coins to be paid out is thirty when three terminal devices participate in the side-bet game, thirty-five when two terminal devices participate in the side-bet game, and sixty when one terminal device participates in the side-bet game. In a case where the total number of symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) is seven, coins to be paid out is thirty-five when three terminal devices participate in the side-bet game, forty when two terminal devices participate in the side-bet game, and seventy when one terminal device participates in the side-bet game. In a case where the total number of symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) is eight, coins to be paid out is forty when three terminal devices participate in the side-bet game, forty-five when two terminal devices participate in the side-bet game, and eighty when one terminal device participates in the side-bet game. In a case where the total number of symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) is nine, coins to be paid out is forty-five when three terminal devices participate in the side-bet game, fifty when two terminal devices participate in the side-bet game, and ninety when one terminal device participates in the side-bet game. 
     In a case where the total number of symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) is ten, coins to be paid out is fifty when three terminal devices participate in the side-bet game, and sixty when two terminal devices participate in the side-bet game. In a case where the total number of symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) is eleven, coins to be paid out is fifty-five when three terminal devices participate in the side-bet game, and seventy when two terminal devices participate in the side-bet game. In a case where the total number of symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) is twelve, coins to be paid out is sixty when three terminal devices participate in the side-bet game, and seventy-five when two terminal devices participate in the side-bet game. In a case where the total number of symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) is thirteen, coins to be paid out is sixty-five when three terminal devices participate in the side-bet game, and eighty when two terminal devices participate in the side-bet game. In a case where the total number of symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) is fourteen, coins to be paid out is seventy when three terminal devices participate in the side-bet game, and eighty-five when two terminal devices participate in the side-bet game. In a case where the total number of symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) is fifteen, coins to be paid out is seventy-five when three terminal devices participate in the side-bet game, and ninety when two terminal devices participate in the side-bet game. 
     In the above-described structure, when awarding a part or all of the accumulatively-stored base payouts to the terminal device  3 A,  3 B,  3 C selected by the side-bet button  90 , a payout corresponding to the number of terminal devices  3 A,  3 B, and  3 C selected by the side-bet button  90  can be awarded. This enables imbalance of the payout due to difference in the number of players participating in the side-bet game to be corrected by, for example, setting a payout rate corresponding to the number of symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) to a higher rate when the smaller number of terminal devices  3 A,  3 B, and  3 C participate in a side-bet and setting a payout rate corresponding to the number of symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) to a lower rate when the smaller number of terminal devices  3 A,  3 B, and  3 C participate in a side-bet. Therefore, the player can enjoy the side-bet game even when there are a small number of participants. 
     [Display State of Display Windows  151  to  155  of Terminal Device] 
     The following details an exemplary display state of the lower image display panels  16 A,  16 B, and  16 C of the terminal devices  3 A,  3 B,  3 C during operations of the slot machine  1  and the controlling method thereof. Note that the following example deals with a case where symbols  180  are arranged in the display windows  151  to  155  by means of a video reel method, as shown in  FIGS. 92 and 96 . 
     The lower image display panel  16 A,  16 B,  16 C has display windows  151  to  155  where symbols  180  are arranged. The display windows  151  to  155  are disposed at a center part of the lower image display panel  16 A,  16 B,  16 C. In the display windows  151  to  155 , symbol columns (symbol lines A to E) each made up of symbols  180  are scrolled (see  FIG. 69 ). The display windows  151  to  155  are respectively divided into a-stages  151   a  to  155   a,  b-stages  151   b  to  155   b,  and c-stages  151   c  to  155   c.  The symbols  180  are stopped (arranged) in the stages  151   a  to  155   a,    151   b  to  155   b,  and  151   c  to  155   c,  respectively. For example, in  FIG. 69 , on the lower image display panel  16 A of the terminal device  3 A, a symbol of “A”  184  is stopped in the a-stage  151   a  of the display window  151 , a symbol of “Q”  187  is stopped in the central stage  151   b  of the display window  151 , and a symbol of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) is stopped in the lower stage  153   c  of the display window  153 . In short, the display windows  151  to  155  displays a matrix  156  as an arrangement region made up of five columns and three rows. The matrix  156  however is not limited to the one with the five-columns/three-rows. 
     In a basic game (base game), a payout awarding process such as paying out coins is executed when a predetermined number of symbols  181  to  188  called scatter symbols are displayed on the lower image display panel  16 A,  16 B,  16 C as a winning combination. Scatter symbols are symbols which provide an effective result (such as awarding a payout, giving a bonus game, or the like) merely when a predetermined number of them are stopped on any of the display areas of the arrangement region made up of five columns and three rows of the display windows  151  to  155 . For example, when five symbols of “J”  185 , which is one of the scatter symbols shown in  FIG. 69 , are rearranged (displayed) in the display windows  151  to  155 , ten coins are paid out as a payout. When five symbols of “HEART”  182 , which is one of the scatter symbols, is rearranged (displayed) in the display windows  151  to  155 , fifty coins are paid out as a payout. 
     Although in this embodiment the symbols  181  to  188  are defined as scatter symbols, this is not limitative and only a specific symbol may be defined as a scatter symbol. Alternatively, a player may select a scatter symbol. It may also be possible that a coin payout process or the like is executed when a predetermined combination of symbols is stopped on a payline L extending horizontally through the b-stages ( 151   b  to  155   b ) of the display windows  151  to  155 . That is, the payline L is for determining a combination of symbols  180 . When symbols  180  are rearranged on the payline L and outside the payline L, only the symbols  180  rearranged on the payline are judged for a combination. It maybe possible that, when a winning combination is made as a result of the determination of a combination, a coin payout process or the like is executed. 
     [Display State of Display Windows  231  to  235  of Common Display] 
       FIG. 70  shows a state where: symbols  180  are rearranged in the display windows  151  to  155  in a base game of the terminal devices  3 A,  3 B, and  3 C; among the rearranged symbols  180 , symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) are rearranged in the display windows  231  to  235  of the common display  201 ; and further the symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) are rearranged in the display windows  231  to  235  as a side-bet game. For example, as shown in  FIG. 69 , a base game is executed so that symbols  180  are sequentially rearranged in the display windows  151  to  155 . 
     Thus, all the symbols  180  are rearranged. More specifically, one symbol of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) is arranged in the display windows  151  to  155  of the terminal device  3 A, five symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) are arranged in the display windows  151  to  155  of the terminal device  3 B, and five symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) are arranged in the display windows  151  to  155  of the terminal device  3 C. 
     A total of the symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) arranged in the terminal devices  3 A,  3 B, and  3 C are rearranged in the display windows  231  to  235  of the common display  201 . More specifically, eleven symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) are arranged in the display windows  231  to  235  of the common display  201 . The symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) thus rearranged are scrolled and then rearranged again. More specifically, six symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) are rearranged in the display windows  231  to  235  of the common display  201 . 
     In this embodiment, symbols  180  to be arranged in the display windows  231  to  235  of the common display  201  are only the symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 . A payout is awarded in accordance with the number of symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181  arranged in the display windows  231  to  235 . 
     [Operation of Slot Machine] 
     Next, various processes executed in the slot machine  1  will be described. As the main CPU  41  and the main CPU  241  read out and execute programs stored in the ROM  42 , the RAM  43 , the ROM  242 , and the RAM  243 , processes relating to various games are run. 
     [Operation of Slot Machine: Game Running Process] 
     After the terminal side initial setting routine of  FIG. 106 , the main CPU  41  of the terminal device  3 A,  3 B,  3 C reads out and executes the game program and the game system program sequentially, thereby executing a game running process shown in  FIG. 74 . A game running processing program is stored in the RAM  43 . 
     The main CPU  41  of the terminal device  3 A,  3 B,  3 C executes the game running process shown in  FIG. 74 . When the game running process is run, first, the main CPU  41  determines whether a coin is bet or not (C1). In this step, whether an input signal from the 1-BET switch  26 S entered by pressing of the 1-BET button  26  is received or not is determined. Meanwhile, whether an input signal from the maximum BET switch  27 S entered by pressing of the maximum BET button  27  is received or not is determined. If no coin is BET (C1: NO), C1 is repeated so that a standby state continues until a coin is bet. 
     On the other hand, if it is determined that a coin is bet (C1: YES), the credit value stored in the RAM  43  is reduced according to the number of coins bet (C2). When the number of coins bet surpasses the number of coins equivalent to the credit value stored in the RAM  43 , the credit value is reduced to zero and he step C3 is performed. When the number of coins bet exceeds the maximum number of coins bet-table on one game (50 pieces in this embodiment), the credit value is reduced by fifty and the step C3 is performed. 
     Then, whether a spin button  23  is turned on or not is determined (C3). If the spin button  23  is not turned on (C3: NO), the process returns to C1. Here, if the spin button  23  is not turned on (for example, the spin button  23  is not turned on but a command to end the game is input), the reduction of the credit value in C2 is canceled. 
     On the other hand, when it is determined that the spin button  23  is turned on (C3: YES), a symbol determining process is executed (C4). In other words, a stop symbol determining program is executed based on the base game winning combination lottery table  130  stored in the RAM  43 , to determine fifteen symbols  180  to be stopped in the display windows  151  to  155 . 
     Then, symbols  180  in the symbol columns (symbol lines A to E) in the display windows  151  to  155  are scrolled (C5). When a predetermined period of time (base time) has elapsed after the scroll of the symbols  180  is started, the symbols  180  determined in C4 is stopped (rearranged) in the display windows  151  to  155  (A 7 ). At this time, a scroll stop signal is transmitted. 
     Then, whether a win is made or not, that is, whether a combination of symbols  180  stopped in the display windows  151  to  155  is a winning combination listed in the base game payout table  131  or not, is determined (C7). When it is determined that the combination is not a winning combination (C7: NO), the process ends. When it is determined that the combination is a winning combination (C7: YES), whether a side-bet ON signal which is transmitted during a later-described side-bet process is received or not is determined (C8). When the side-bet ON signal is not received (C8: NO), a payout process based on a base game is executed (C9). More specifically, the number of coins to be paid out which corresponds to a kind of the winning combination is calculated based on the base game payout table  131  shown in  FIG. 72 . When coins to be paid out are reserved, a credit value equivalent to the coins is added to the credit value stored in the RAM  43 . When the coins are paid out, a control signal is transmitted to the hopper  66  so that a predetermined number of coins are paid out to the coin tray  18 . That is, a base payout is awarded in accordance with the winning combination. 
     When the side-bet ON signal is received (C8: YES), whether a winning combination involving the symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) is made or not is determined (C10). That is, whether four or five symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) are stopped in the display windows  151  to  155  or not is determined. When it is determined that a winning combination involving the symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) is not made (C10: NO), a payout process based on a base game is executed (C11). More specifically, the number of coins to be paid out which corresponds to a kind of the winning combination is calculated based on the base game payout table  131  shown in  FIG. 72 . Then, the process goes to C13. 
     When it is determined that a winning combination involving the symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) is made (C10: YES), the number of coins to be paid out which corresponds to the winning combination involving the symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) is stocked based on the base game payout table  131  shown in  FIG. 72  (C12). Information about the number of coins to be paid out is transmitted to the central control board  210 , and added to the side-bet credit value stored in the RAM  243 . In other words, the number of coins to be paid out which corresponds to the winning combination involving the symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) is reserved as coins to be paid out for a side-bet game. 
     Then, the number of symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) stopped (rearranged) in the display windows  151  to  155  is calculated (C13). Then, a side-bet game start signal is transmitted (C14). The side-bet game start signal includes information about the number of symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) thus calculated. 
     Then, whether a side-bet game end signal is received or not is determined (C15). When it is determined that the signal is not received (C15: NO), reception of the side-bet game end signal is waited. When it is determined that the signal is received (C15: YES), a payout process of a side-bet game is executed (C16). More specifically, coins are paid out based on information about the number of coins to be paid out (a payout from the side-bet game) included in the side-bet game end signal received in E11 of a side-bet game running process which will be described later. Then, this process once ends. 
     [Operation of Slot Machine: Side-Bet Process] 
     The main CPU  41  of each of the terminal devices  3 A,  3 B, and  3 C executes a side-bet process shown in  FIG. 108  in parallel with the game running process. In the side-bet process, whether or not to participate in a side-bet game, which is played using the common display  201 , is determined. A side-bet processing program is stored in the RAM  43 .  FIG. 108  is a flowchart showing a side-bet process. 
     First, when a side-bet process is executed, a side-bet period starts (D1). The period starts since the spin button  23  is turned on. Then, whether the scroll stop signal, which has been transmitted in C6 of the game running process, is received or not is determined (D2). When the scroll stop signal is not received (D2: NO), the scroll stop signal is waited. When the scroll stop signal is received (D2: YES), a side-bet period ends (D3). 
     Then, whether there has been a side-bet during the side-bet period or not is determined (D4). More specifically, whether an input signal from the side-bet switch  90 S, which is caused by an input operation on the side-bet button  90 , is received or not is determined. 
     When it is determined that there has not been a side-bet (D4: NO), a side-bet OFF signal is transmitted (D5). When it is determined that there has been a side-bet (D4: YES), a side-bet ON signal is transmitted (D6). Then, this process once ends. 
     According to the above-described structure, the side-bet button  90  can be kept selectable until symbols  180  are rearranged in the display windows  151  to  155  in each of the terminal devices  3 A,  3 B, and  3 C. This allows a player to make a side-bet until rearrangement is completed in the base game in each of the terminal devices  3 A,  3 B, and  3 C. Therefore, the player can make a side-bet while watching how the symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) used for the side-bet game are rearranged. 
     [Operation of Slot Machine: Side-Bet Game Running Process] 
     After the center side initial setting routine shown in  FIG. 106  ends, the main CPU  241  of the central control board  210  reads out and executes the game program and the game system program sequentially, thereby running the side-bet game running process shown in  FIG. 75 . A side-bet game running processing program is stored in the RAM  243 . 
     When the side-bet game running process is executed, first, whether a side-bet OFF signal or a side-bet game start signal from the terminal device  3 A is received or not is determined (E1). When the signal is not received (E1: NO), the step E1 is repeated. When the signal is received (E1: YES), whether a side-bet OFF signal or a side-bet game start signal from the terminal device  3 B is received or not is determined (E2). When the signal is not received (E2: NO), the step E2 is repeated. When the signal is received (E2: YES), whether a side-bet OFF signal or a side-bet game start signal from the terminal device  3 C is received or not is determined (E3). When the signal is not received (E3: NO), the step E3 is repeated. 
     When the signal is received (E3: YES), the number of side-bet game start signals received in E1 to E3 is stored in the RAM  243  (E4). In other words, the number of terminal devices having made side-bets is calculated. 
     Then, the total number of symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) is calculated from information included in the side-bet start signals transmitted from the terminal devices  3 A,  3 B, and  3 C. A total number of symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) thus calculated are arranged in the display windows  231  to  235  of the common display (E5). 
     Next, a COMMON SYMBOL number determining process is executed (E6). More specifically, a COMMON SYMBOL number determining program is executed based on a COMMON SYMBOL number lottery table  132  stored in the RAM  243 , so that the number of symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) to be stopped in the display windows  231  to  235  is determined. When the number of symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) thus determined is greater than the total number of symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) indicated by the information included in the side-bet start signals and the like which have been transmitted from the respective terminal devices  3 A,  3 B, and  3 C, the number of symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) determined by the COMMON SYMBOL number determining process is a total number of the symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) indicated by the information included in the side-bet start signals and the like which have been transmitted from the respective terminal devices  3 A,  3 B, and  3 C. 
     Then, the symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) arranged in the display windows  231  to  235  are scrolled (E7). When a predetermined period of time (base time) has elapsed after the scroll of the symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) is started, symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) the number of which has been determined in E6 are stopped (rearranged) in the display windows  231  to  235  (E8). 
     Then, whether symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) are rearranged in the display windows  231  to  235  or not, and more specifically how many symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) are stopped in the display windows  231  to  235 , is determined (E9). When it is determined that symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) are not rearranged (E9: NO), the process goes to E11. When it is determined that symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) are rearranged (E9: YES), the number of coins to be paid out is calculated based on the side-bet game payout table  133  (E9). The number of coins to be paid out is according to the number of symbols of “COMMON SYMBOL”  181 (CS) stopped in the display windows  231  to  235 , the side-bet credit value stored in the RAM  243  (the stocked payout), and the number of terminal devices from which the side-bet game start signals have been received (the number of terminal devices having made side-bets) which is stored in the RAM  234  (E10). Then, aside-bet game end signal is transmitted (E10). The side-bet game end signal includes information about the number of coins to be paid out which has been calculated in E10. Then, this process once ends. 
     According to the above-described structure, a player may enjoy the side-bet game using rearrangement on the common display  201 . In addition, a player playing on the terminal device  3 A,  3 B, or  3 C which has made a side-bet is given a payout as a result of a side-bet game, which payout is affected by a game result of a player playing on a neighboring terminal device  3 A,  3 B, or  3 C. Therefore, the player making a side-bet can sometimes enjoy a side-bet game while feeling some togetherness (unity) with players playing on neighboring terminal devices  3 A,  3 B,  3 C. In addition, a player can enjoy the side-bet game without inserting a new game value, because a result of a game played in the terminal device  3 A,  3 B,  3 C having made a side-bet (a payout resulting from achievement of a predetermined combination) is used for a payout of the side-bet game. 
     [Operation of Slot Machine: Effect Operation] 
     When the above-described various processes are executed in the slot machine  1 , results or contents corresponding to the processes are, in the form of commands or data, input to respective actuators. For example, when an input operation of the side-bet button  90  is performed in each of the terminal devices  3 A,  3 B, and  3 C, the main CPU  41  receives an input signal from the side-bet switch  90 S and controls the lamp  30  to blink the lamp  30 . In addition, when an input operation of the side-bet button  90  is performed, the main CPU  41  displays an effect image on the upper image display panel  33 . Moreover, the main CPU  41  performs effect presentation by an audio output from the speaker  29 , together with or independently of the effect made on the upper image display panel  33 . 
     In the detailed description provided above, characteristic parts have mainly been described in order that the present invention can be understood more easily. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiment shown in the detailed description provided above, and may be applied to other embodiments. The scope of application of the present invention should be construed as broadly as possible. Terms and phraseologies adopted in the present specification are for correctly illustrating the present invention, not for limiting. It would be easy for those skilled in the art to derive, from the spirit of the invention described in the present specification, other structures, systems, methods and the like which are included in the spirit of the invention. Accordingly, it should be considered that claims cover equivalent structures, too, without departing from the technical idea of the present invention. An object of the abstract is to enable an intellectual property office, general public institutions, persons belonging to the art but not familiar with patent, legal terms, or technical terms to quickly understand technical contents and essences of the present invention through a simple research. Therefore, the abstract is not intended to limit the scope of the invention that should be evaluated by the claims. In addition, it is desirable to sufficiently refer to already-disclosed documents and the like, in order to fully understand the objects and effects of the present invention. 
     The detailed description provided above includes a process which is executed on a computer or a computer network. The descriptions and expressions provided above are given for the purpose of allowing those skilled in the art to understand the invention most effectively. In the specification, respective steps used to induce one result, or blocks having a predetermined processing function should be understood as a process having no self-contradiction. In addition, in each step or block, an electrical or magnetic signal is transmitted/received, recorded, and the like. In a process in each step or block, such a signal is embodied in the form of a bit, a value, a symbol, a character, a term, a number, and the like. However, it should be noted that they have been used simply because they are convenient for explanations. A process in each step or block has sometimes been described using an expression which is common to a human behavior. However, in principle, the process described in the specification is executed by a variety of devices. In addition, other structures necessary for each step or block are apparent from the above description.