Abstract:
A gaming machine having a display device for variably displaying and stopping symbols during a game; a memory storing a lottery table having interrelated random number ranges, threshold target values (an accumulatively counted number of times the game has been played) and payouts; and a processor (a) to extract a random number, (b) to determine from the lottery table the random number range to which the random number belongs, (c) to determine the threshold target value corresponding to the determined random number range, (d) to accumulatively count a total number of times the game has been played while games are continuously conducted, (e) to determine whether or not the total number of game plays equals the determined threshold target value, and (f) to determine from the lottery table and give the related payout when the total number of game plays equals with the determined threshold target value.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO THE RELATED APPLICATIONS 
   This application is based upon and claims a priority from the prior Japanese Patent Application No. 2005-294599 filed on Oct. 7, 2005, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. 
   BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
   1. Field of the Invention 
   The present invention relates to a gaming machine and a gaming system, in which a progressive Jack Pot system is conducted. 
   2. Description of Related Art 
   Conventionally, in a gaming system in which a plurality of gaming machines such as slot machines are linked, a system called a progressive Jack Pot is adopted that a predetermined percentage of the coins bet in each gaming machine is pooled among all of the coins bet in the gaming machines, and these coins that are pooled are paid out at one time when a specific winning combination with a low appearance probability is realized (for example, see Unexamined Japanese Publication No. 2004-130119). 
   Alternatively, a progressive Jack Pot system can independently conducted on a single machine. 
   In such progressive Jack Pot systems, since the probability of occurrence of the specific winning combination appearing is usually set low, therefore there will be many times when the amount of polled coins becomes enormous. Thus, the real pleasure of the dream of making a fortune at a stroke can be given to a player. 
   However, even if the player really continues to play games while aiming to win the progressive Jack Pot, it is an exceeding rare case that the player can get lucky enough to win the pooled coins; therefore, such a progressive Jack Pot is not enough to make the player have interest to continue playing. 
   SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
   Thus, the present invention has been done and has an object to provide a gaming machine and a gaming system in which interest of the player to continue playing can be aroused even in a case that the player gives up hope of realizing a progressive Jack Pot. 
   In order to accomplish the above object, according to one aspect of the present invention, a gaming machine is provided comprising: 
   a display device for variably displaying and stopping symbols during a game; 
   a memory storing a lottery table, the lottery table having interrelated random number ranges, threshold target values and payouts, each threshold target value being defined as an accumulatively counted number of times the game has been played; and 
   a processor programmed to operate with the display device and the memory (a) to extract a random number, (b) to determine from the lottery table the random number range to which the random number belongs, (c) to determine the specific threshold target value corresponding to the determined random number range, (d) to accumulatively count a total number of times the game has been played while the games are continuously conducted, (e) to determine whether or not the total number of times the game has been played equals the determined specific threshold target value, and (f) to determine from the lottery table and give the related payout when the total number of times the game has been played equals with the determined specific threshold target value. 
   According to another aspect of the present invention, it is provided a gaming system in which plural gaming machines and a server are connected, 
   each of the gaming machines comprises; 
   a display device for variably displaying and stopping symbols during a game; and 
   a gaming machine processor programmed to operate with the display device (a) to conduct a lottery to determine a stop display manner of the symbols on the display device, (b) to control the display device to stop the symbols according to the stop display manner, and (c) to give a payout based on the stop display manner of the symbols; 
   the server comprises: 
   a memory storing a lottery table, the lottery table having interrelated random number ranges, threshold target values and payouts, each threshold target value being defined as an accumulatively counted number of times the game has been played; and 
   a server processor (d) to extract a random number, (e) to determine from the lottery table the random number range to which the random number belongs, (f) to determine the threshold target value corresponding to the determined random number range, (g) accumulatively count-up a total number of times the game has been played while the games are continuously conducted in the gaming machine, (h) to determine whether or not the total number of times the game has been played equals the determined threshold target value, and (i) to determine from the lottery table and give the related payout to the gaming machine when the total number of times the game has been played equals the determined threshold target value. 
   The above and further objects and novel features of the invention will more fully appear from the following detailed description when the same is read in connection with the accompanying drawings. It is to be expressly understood, however, that the drawings are for purpose of illustration only and are not intended as a definition of the limits of the invention. 

   
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
     The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification illustrate embodiments of the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the objects, advantages and principles of the invention. 
     In the drawings, 
       FIG. 1  is a perspective view of a slot machine, 
       FIG. 2  is a block diagram schematically showing a control system of the slot machine, 
       FIG. 3  is a block diagram schematically showing a liquid crystal drive circuit of a liquid crystal display, 
       FIG. 4  is an explanatory view for explaining symbol columns variably displayed and stopped while scrolling in each of variable display portions, each of the symbol columns being formed on a periphery of each reel, 
       FIG. 5  is an explanatory view showing a lottery table of stop display symbols, 
       FIG. 6  is an explanatory view showing winning symbol combinations and payouts thereof, 
       FIG. 7  is a flowchart of a main process program, 
       FIG. 8  is a flowchart of a start acceptance process program, 
       FIG. 9  is a flowchart of a lottery process program, 
       FIG. 10  is a flowchart of a game process program, 
       FIG. 11  is an explanatory view showing lottery tables for a number of times of a game to start a ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, and payout tables of the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, with effect notification, 
       FIG. 12  is an explanatory view showing a lottery table of the number of times of the game necessary to start the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, and a payout table of the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, and effect notification, 
       FIG. 13  is an explanatory view showing a lottery table of the stop display symbols, 
       FIG. 14  is a system block diagram showing a slot system, 
       FIG. 15  is a block diagram schematically showing a control system of the slot machine constructing the slot system, 
       FIG. 16  is a block diagram schematically showing a control system of a server constructing the slot system, 
       FIG. 17  is a flowchart of a main process program conducted in each slot machine of the slot system, 
       FIG. 18  is a flowchart of a start acceptance program conducted in each slot machine of the slot system, 
       FIG. 19  is a flowchart of a lottery process program conducted in each slot machine of the slot system, 
       FIG. 20  is a flowchart of a game process program conducted in each slot machine of the slot system, and 
       FIG. 21  is a flowchart of a lottery process program for Jack Pot and ceiling value symbol combination, the program being conducted in the server of the slot system. 
   

   DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
   Hereinafter, a gaming machine according to the present invention will be described in detail based on an embodiment which is embodied in a slot machine, with reference to the drawings. At first, an outline construction of the slot machine according to the embodiment will be described with reference to  FIGS. 1 and 2 .  FIG. 1  is a perspective view of the slot machine.  FIG. 2  is a block diagram schematically showing a control system of the slot machine. 
   In  FIG. 1 , the slot machine  1  has a cabinet  2 . At a front upper position of the cabinet  2 , a liquid crystal display  3  is arranged. At a front center position of the cabinet  2 , a front panel  4  is arranged. Here, the liquid crystal display  3  is constructed from a conventional liquid crystal display. Information is displayed on the liquid crystal display  3  concerning details of the game such as game methods, kinds of winning combinations and payouts thereof, various effects and the like. Three variable display portions  22 ,  23 , and  24  and an active pay line L are provided on the front panel  4 . Various kinds of symbols are variably displayed on each of the variable display portions  22 ,  23 ,  24  while being scrolled from the top of the portion toward the bottom (see  FIG. 4 ). 
   At an lower side of the front panel  4 , a control panel  5  is provided and projects forwardly. A CHANGE button  6 , a CASHOUT button  7  and a HELP button  8  are arranged on the control panel  5  from the most left side of the control panel  5 . At the right side of the HELP button  8 , a coin insertion slot  9  and a bill insertion portion  10  are provided. Further, in the forward side of the control panel  5 , a 1-BET button  11 , a SPIN (SPIN/REPEAT BET) button  12 , a 3-BET button  13  and a 5-BET button  14  are provided in that order from the left side of the control panel  5 . 
   The CHANGE button  6  is a button which is pressed when a bill inserted in the bill insertion portion  10  is exchanged with coins. The coins exchanged are paid out from a coin payout opening  15  to a coin receiver  16 , both of which are provided at lower positions of the cabinet  2 . A CHANGE switch  62  is attached to the CHANGE button  6  and a switch signal is output from the CHANGE switch  62  to a CPU  50  based on a user pressing the CHANGE button  6  (see  FIG. 2 ). 
   The CASHOUT button  7  is a button which is pressed when the game is terminated. When the CASHOUT button  7  is pressed, coins won in the game are paid out from the coin payout opening  15  to the coin receiver  16 . A CASHOUT switch  63  is attached to the CASHOUT button  7  and a switch signal is output from the CASHOUT switch  63  to the CPU  50  based on a user pressing the CASHOUT button  7  (see  FIG. 2 ). 
   The HELP button is a button which is pressed when operation methods of the game cannot be understood. When the HELP button  8  is pressed before the game is started, help information is displayed on the liquid crystal display  3 . When the HELP button  8  is pressed during the game, the total number of times the game has been played is displayed on the liquid crystal display  3 . A HELP switch  64  is attached to the HELP button  8 . A switch signal is output from the HELP switch  64  to the CPU  50  based on a user pressing the HELP button  8  (see  FIG. 2 ). 
   A coin sensor  65  is connected to the coin insertion slot  9 , and when coins are inserted in the coin insertion slot  9 , a coin detection signal is output to the CPU  50  through the coin sensor  65  (see  FIG. 2 ). 
   A bill sensor  66  is connected to the bill insertion portion  10 , and when a bill is inserted in the bill insertion portion  10 , a bill. detection signal is output to the CPU  50  through the bill sensor  66  (see  FIG. 2 ). 
   The 1-BET button  11  allows one bet to be placed when the 1-BET button  11  is pressed. A 1-BET switch  59  is attached to the 1-BET button  11 , and when the 1-BET button  11  is pressed, a switch signal is output from the 1-BET switch  59  to the CPU  50  based on a user pressing the 1-BET button  11 . 
   The SPIN button  12  when pressed, starts the game with a bet number from the previous bet or a preset bet number depending on the user selection. A SPIN switch  58  is attached to the SPIN button  12 , and when the SPIN button  12  is pressed, a switch signal is output from the SPIN switch  58  to the CPU  50  based on a user pressing the SPIN button  12  (see  FIG. 2 ). The bet number bettable based on pressing the SPIN button  12  is 1 bet, 2 bets, 3 bets and 5 bets. 
   The 3-BET button  13  allows 3 bets to be placed when the 3-BET button  13  is pressed. A 3-BET switch  60  is attached to the 3-BET button  13 , and when the 3-BET button  13  is pressed, a switch signal is output from the 3-BET switch  60  to the CPU  50  (see  FIG. 2 ). The 5-BET button  14  allows 5 bets to be placed when the 5-BET button  14  is pressed. A 5-BET switch  61  is attached to the 5-BET button  14 , and when the 5-BET button is pressed, a switch signal is output from the 5-BET switch  61  to the CPU  50  based on a user pressing the 5-BET button  14  (see  FIG. 2 ). 
   At a lower position of the cabinet  2 , the coin payout opening  15  and the coin receiver  16 , which receives coins paid out from the coin payout opening  15 , are formed. A coin detection portion  73 , which is constructed from a sensor or the like, is arranged within the coin payout opening  15 . The coin detection portion  73  detects a number of coins paid out from the coin payout opening  15  (see  FIG. 2 ). 
   At a rear side of the front panel  4 , three reels  220  are rotatably supported in a parallel state so as to be able to independently rotate (see  FIG. 2 ). The game is conducted by using the symbols of the reels  220  which can be seen through each of the variable display portions  22  to  24  of the front panel  4 . 
   Each of the reels  220  will now be described. Among the three reels  220 , the left reel  220  when viewed from the front plane of the slot machine  1 , faces the left variable display portion  22  formed on the front panel  4 . Similarly, the center reel  220  faces the center variable display portion  23  formed on the front panel  4  of the slot machine  1 . Further, the right reel  220  faces the right variable display portion  24  formed on the front panel  4  of the slot machine  1 . 
   Next, with reference to  FIG. 4 , symbol columns which are variably displayed and stopped in each of the variable display portions  22  to  24  will be described. In  FIG. 4 , a symbol column  241  is variably displayed and stopped in the left variable display portion  22 . A symbol column  242  is variably displayed and stopped in the center variable display portion  23 . A symbol column  243  is variably displayed and stopped in the right variable display portion  24 . 
   Each of the symbol columns  241  to  243  have the same symbol arrangement. Each symbol column is constructed from eleven symbols obtained by combining triple BAR  91 , cherry  92 , double BAR  93 , seven  94 , single BAR  95  and blank  96  (area that no symbol exists). 
   In a case when each of the symbol columns  241  to  243  variably displayed while scrolling in each of the variable display portions  22  to  24  is displayed and stopped, three symbols are stopped and displayed in each of the variable display portions. 
   Various winning symbol combinations are set beforehand based on plural possible symbol combinations. When the symbol combination corresponding to the winning symbol combination are stopped on the activated pay line L, coins are paid out corresponding to the winning symbol combination. This operation is the same as that in the conventional slot machine. Therefore, explanation thereof will be omitted. 
   In a case when various symbols are formed on a peripheral of each reel  220 , the eleven symbols may be printed on a long reel sheet having a width and a peripheral length the same as those of each reel  220 . The reel sheet is adhered to the peripheral of each reel  220 . The symbols can be formed by methods other than the above method. 
   Next, with reference to  FIG. 2 , a control system of the slot machine  1  will be described.  FIG. 2  is a block diagram schematically showing a control system of the slot machine  1 . 
   In  FIG. 2 , the control system of the slot machine  1  is basically constructed from a CPU  50 , which is the main component. A ROM  51  and a RAM  52  are connected to the CPU  50 . A main process program, a lottery and stop control process program, various effect process programs to conduct various effects on the liquid crystal display  3  according to progress of the game, a lottery table used in a lottery of stop display symbols in the game, and other various programs necessary for control in the slot machine  1  and data tables are stored in the ROM  51 . The RAM  52  is memory which temporarily stores various data calculated by the CPU  50 . 
   A clock pulse generator  53  generating standard clock pulses and a frequency divider  54 , a random number generator  55  generating random numbers, and a random number sampling circuit  56  are connected to the CPU  50 . A random number sampled by the random number sampling circuit  56  is used in various lotteries of the winning symbol combination and the like. Further, a SPIN switch  58  attached to the SPIN button  12 , a 1-BET switch  59  attached to the 1-BET button  11 , a 3-BET switch  60  attached to the 3-BET button  13 , a 5-BET switch  61  attached to the 5-BET button  14 , a CHANGE switch  62  attached to the CHANGE button  6 , a CASHOUT switch  63  attached to the CASHOUT button  7  and a HELP switch  64  attached to the HELP button  8  are all connected to the CPU  50 . The CPU  50  conducts control to execute various operations corresponding to each button based on the switch signal output from each switch when each button is pressed. 
   Three stepping motors  68  for rotating each of the reels  220  through a motor drive circuit  167  and a position change detection circuit  69  are connected to the CPU  50 . When a motor drive signal (instruction pulses) is output to the motor drive circuit  167  from the CPU  50 , an excitation signal output from the motor drive circuit  167 , causes each of the stepping motors  68  to rotate. Thereby, rotation of each reel  220  is conducted. 
   At that time, the CPU  50  counts a number of drive pulses provided to each stepping motor  68  and recognizes rotation positions of the symbols in each reel  220  based on the number of drive pulses counted, and thereafter conducts stop position control of the symbols. 
   The position change detection circuit  69  connected to the CPU  50  detects change of the stop position of the reel  220  after stop control of the reels  220  is conducted by the motor drive circuit  167 . 
   Further, a coin sensor  65  arranged in the coin insertion slot  9  and a bill sensor  66  arranged in the bill insertion portion  10  are respectively connected to the CPU  50 . The coin sensor  65  detects coins inserted from the coin insertion slot  9  and the CPU  50  calculates a number of inserted coins based on a coin detection signal output from the coin sensor  65 . The bill sensor  66  detects a the type and amount of the bill inserted in the bill insertion portion  10  and the CPU  50  calculates a number of coins equivalent to the amount of the bill based on a bill detection signal output from the bill sensor  66 . 
   A hopper  71  is connected through a hopper drive circuit  70  to the CPU  50 . When a drive signal is output to the hopper drive circuit  70  from the CPU  50 , the hopper  71  pays out a predetermined number of coins from the coin payout opening  15 . 
   A coin detection portion  73  is connected to the CPU  50  through a payout completion signal circuit  72 . The coin detection portion  73  is arranged within the coin payout opening  15 , and when the coin detection portion  73  detects that a predetermined number of coins are paid out from the coin payout opening  15 , a coin payout detection signal is output to the payout completion signal circuit  72  from the coin detection portion  73 . Based on this, the payout completion signal circuit  72  outputs a payout completion signal to the CPU  50 . Further, the liquid crystal display  3  is connected to the CPU  50  through a liquid crystal drive circuit  74 , and the liquid crystal display  3  is controlled by the CPU  50 . 
   As shown in  FIG. 3 , the liquid crystal drive circuit  74  is constructed from a program ROM  81 , an image ROM  82 , an image control CPU  83 , a work RAM  84 , a VDP  85  (Video Display Processor) and a video RAM  86 . An image control program relating to the display on the liquid crystal display  3  and various selection tables are stored in the program ROM  81 . Dot data for forming images displayed on the liquid crystal display  3  may be stored, for example, in the image ROM  82 . Further, the image control CPU  83  determines the image displayed on the liquid crystal display  3  based upon the dot data stored beforehand in the image ROM  82 , and the image control program stored beforehand in the program ROM  81  based on parameters set by the CPU  50 . The work RAM  84  is constructed as a temporary memory to be used when the image control program is executed by the image control CPU  83 . Further, the VDP  85  forms the image corresponding to display contents determined by the image control CPU  83  and outputs it to the liquid crystal display  3 . In this case, the video RAM  86  is constructed as a temporary memory when images are formed by the VDP  85 . 
   Returning to  FIG. 2 , LEDs  78  are connected to the CPU  50  through a LED drive circuit  77 . Numerous LEDs  78  are arranged on the front plane of the slot machine  1  and are controlled so as to turn on and off through the LED drive circuit  77  based on drive signals from the CPU  50  when various conditions occur. Further, a sound output circuit  79  and a speaker  80  are connected to the CPU  50 . The speaker  80  outputs various sounds based on an output signal from the sound output circuit  79  when various conditions occur. 
   With reference to  FIG. 5 , a lottery table which is used when the symbols stopped and displayed on the activated pay line L are determined while the game is conducted by using three variable display portions  22  to  24  in the slot machine  1  will now be described.  FIG. 5  is an explanatory view showing a lottery table of the stop display symbols used when the game is conducted by using three variable display portions. 
   The symbol stopped and displayed on the activated pay line L is determined for each of variable display portions  22  to  24 . In order to achieve this, code numbers “0”˜“10” are allotted to the symbols in order from the uppermost symbol in each of the symbol columns  241  to  243  respectively corresponding to each of the variable display portions  22  to  24 . Further, a table shown in  FIG. 5  is prepared. Three random numbers corresponding to each of the variable display portions  22  to  24  are sampled through the random number sampling circuit  56 . 
   Hereinafter, for convenience sake, the symbol column  241  of the left variable display portion  22  is described as “left reel”, the symbol column  242  of the center variable display portion  23  is described as “center reel” and the symbol column  243  of the right variable display portion  24  is described as “right reel”. 
   As for the “left reel” of the symbol column  241  in the left variable display portion  22 , as shown in the lottery table of  FIG. 5 , if the random number sampled by the random number sampling circuit  56  lies in a range of 0˜15, the blank  96  allotted to the code number “0” is stopped and displayed on the activated pay line L. Similarly, as for each of the code numbers of “1”˜“10”, the symbol stopped and displayed on the activated pay line L is determined based on the lottery table shown in  FIG. 5 . 
   As for the “center reel” of the symbol column  242  of the center variable display portion  23  and the “right reel” of the symbol column  243  of the right variable display portion  24 , the same process as the “left” reel of the symbol column  241  of the left variable display portion  22  is conducted. 
   Next, with reference to  FIG. 6 , the winning symbol combinations and payouts thereof in a case that the game is conducted by using three variable display portions  22  to  24  in the slot machine  1  will be described.  FIG. 6  is an explanatory view showing winning symbol combinations and payouts thereof in a case that the game is conducted by using three variable display portions. In  FIG. 6 , in a case that the code number of the “left reel”, the “center reel” and the “right reel” is “4” or “9”, the winning symbol combination “7-7-7” is won. In this case, the symbol seven  94  is stopped and displayed. on the activated pay line L in all of the variable display portions  22  to  24 , and the payout “100” is obtained. Similarly to the above, each of the payout “5”, “3”, “2” and “1” is done based on the table shown in  FIG. 6 . 
   In a case that the code number of the “left reel”, the “center reel” and the “right reel” is determined as a combination other than the combinations shown in  FIG. 6 , the game is lost. In this case, although any of the triple BAR  91 , the cherry  92 , the double BAR  93 , the seven  94 , the single BAR  95  or the blank  96  is stopped and displayed on the activated pay line L in each of the variable display portions  22  to  24 , the payout cannot be obtained. 
   Next, a main process program executed in the slot machine  1  will be described with reference to  FIG. 7 .  FIG. 7  is a flowchart of the main process program. In  FIG. 7 , at first, in step (abbreviated as “S” hereinafter)  11 , a start acceptance process of  FIG. 8  is conducted. This is a process to accept the switch signal output from the SPIN switch  58 , the 1-BET switch  59 , the 3-BET switch  60  or the 5-BET switch  61  based on operation of the SPIN button  12 , the 1-BET button  11 , the 3-BET button  13  or the 5-BET button  14 . At the time that the switch signal output from each switch is accepted, the game is started. 
   In S 12 , a lottery process of  FIG. 9  is conducted based on the switch signal output from the SPIN switch  58 , the 1-BET switch  58 , the 3-BET switch  60  or the 5-BET switch  61 . 
   Next, in S 13 , a game process of  FIG. 10  is conducted, thereafter the main process program is terminated. 
   The start acceptance process program performed in the slot machine  1  will be described with reference to  FIG. 8 .  FIG. 8  is a flowchart of the start acceptance process program. After the start of the acceptance process of  FIG. 7  is started in S 11 , the procedure shifts to S 21  of  FIG. 8 . In S 21 , it is determined whether or not a predetermined time (for example, 15 seconds) elapses. Here, if it is determined that the predetermined time does not elapse (S 21 : NO), the procedure shifts to S 23 . On the other hand, if it is determined that the predetermined time elapses (S 21 : YES), a demonstration display is conduced on the liquid crystal display  3  in S 22 . Thereafter, the procedure shifts to S 23 . In S 23 , it is determined whether or not the SPIN button  12 , the 1-BET button  11 , the 3-BET button  13  or the 5-BET button  14  is operated. If it is determined that any one of the buttons is not operated (S 23 : NO), the procedure returns to S 21  and the procedures mentioned above are repeated. On the other hand, if it is determined that any one of the buttons is operated (S 23 : YES), the procedure shifts to S 24  even while the demonstration display is conducted. 
   In S 24 , it is determined whether or not the total number of times N the game has been played is “0”. Here, if it is determined that the total number of times N the game has been played is not “0” (S 24 : NO), the procedure shifts to S 26 . On the other hand, if it is determined that the total number of times N the game has been played is “0” (S 24 : YES), a lottery process for starting a ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, of S 25  is conducted. Thereafter, the procedure shifts to S 26 . 
   The lottery process for starting the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, in S 25  will be described.  FIG. 11  is an explanatory view showing lottery tables of a number of times the game must be played to start the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, and payout tables of the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, with result notification. In the lottery process for the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, of S 25  in  FIG. 8 , three random numbers are sampled within a range of 0˜127 through the random number sampling circuit  56 , and one value of the number of times the game must be played to start the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, is determined based on each of three tables in  FIG. 11 . Concretely, if the first random number value sampled through the random number sampling circuit  56  lies in a range of 0˜25, “100” is determined as the number of times the game must be played to start the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, based on the upper table in  FIG. 11 . If the second random number value sampled through the random number sampling circuit  56  lies in a range of 26˜63, “500” is determined as the number times of the game must be played to start the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, based on the middle table in  FIG. 11 . Further, if the third random number value sampled through the random number sampling circuit  56  lies in a range of 64˜127, “900” is determined as the number of times the game must be played to start the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, based on the lower table in  FIG. 11 . That is to say, three ceiling values of the number of times the game must be played to start the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, are determined in the lottery process for ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, in S 25 . 
   The ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, is a symbol combination through which a payout is given when the total number of times N the game has been played reaches to the value (threshold) determined as the number of times the game must be played to start the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value. For example, in the lottery process for the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, in S 25 , if three of the number of times the game must be played to start the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, each of which is determined based on each of three tables in  FIG. 11 , are respectively “400”, “800”, “300”, each time the total number of times N the game has been played becomes “300”, “400” and “800”, the payout of “500” is given. Here, the total number of times N the game has been played is stored in a memory area formed in the RAM  52 , and after the payout is given, the total number of times N the game has been played is initialized to “0” (see S 46  of  FIG. 10  mentioned later). 
   In the lottery process for starting the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, in S 25 , the lottery of plural numbers of times the game must be played to start the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, may be conducted beforehand through the random number sampling circuit  56 . Thereafter three of the number of times the game must be played to start the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, may be determined by a lottery among such plural numbers of times the game must be played to start the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value. In this case, the lottery done beforehand may be conducted right before three of the number of times the game must be played to start the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, are determined within the lottery process for ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, of S 25 , or for example, may be conducted when the total number of times N the game has been played is reset in S 46  by substituting the number N for “0”. 
   Returning to  FIG. 8 , in S 26 , “1” added to the total number of times N the game has been played at present, thereby the total number of times N the game has been played in this time is calculated. Further, in S 27 , a Jack Pot accumulation process is conducted. 
   Here, in the Jack Pot accumulation process of S 27 , a portion of the coins (worth equivalent thereto) betted is added to progressive Jack Pot. Here, the progressive Jack Pot is stored in a memory area formed in the RAM  52 . 
   In S 28 , a process to notify the start of the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, is conducted. In this process, when the total number of times N the game has been played reaches to a predetermined number that is smaller than the value determined as the number of times the game must be played to start the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, the player is thereafter notified after every conducted that the payout for the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, is given, by displaying the tables shown in  FIG. 11  on the liquid crystal display  3 . Concretely, for example, in a case that three numbers of times the game must be played to start the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, each of which is determined based on each of three tables in  FIG. 11 , are respectively “700”, “200”, “600”, when the total number of times N the game has been played becomes “190” which is smaller than “200” by “10”, the tables shown in  FIG. 11  are displayed on the liquid crystal display  3  after every game is completed until the total number of times N the game has been played reaches to “200”. When the total number of times N the game has been played becomes “570” which is smaller than “600” by “30”, the tables shown in  FIG. 11  are displayed on the liquid crystal display  3  after every completed until the total number of times N the game has been played reaches to “600”. Further, when the total number of times N the game has been played becomes “650” which is smaller than “700” by “50”, the tables shown in  FIG. 11  are displayed on the liquid crystal display  3  after every game is completed until the total number of times N the game has been played reaches to “700”. 
   Thereafter, the procedure returns to the main process program of  FIG. 7  and shifts to the lottery process in S 12 . 
   Next, a lottery process program conducted in the slot machine  1  will be described with reference to  FIG. 9 .  FIG. 9  is a flowchart of the lottery process program. After the lottery process is started in S 12  of  FIG. 7 , the procedure shifts to S 31  of  FIG. 9  and a symbol determination process is conducted. The symbol stopped and displayed on the activated pay line L is determined for each of the variable display portions  22 ,  23 ,  24  during the game (S 42  of  FIG. 10 ). Concretely, as mentioned in the above, three random number values are sampled within a range of 0˜127 through the random number sampling circuit  56 , so as to correspond to each of the variable display portions  22 ,  23 ,  24 , and the stop display symbols are determined through the code numbers based on the lottery table shown in  FIG. 5 . After the symbols stopped and displayed on the activated pay line L are determined, a winning symbol combination determination process is performed in S 32 . In the symbol combination determination process, concretely speaking, the winning symbol combination and the payout thereof are determined based on the table in  FIG. 6  through the code numbers determined in S 31 . Thereafter, procedure returns to the main process program and shifts to the game process in S 13 . 
   Next, the game process program conducted in the slot machine  1  will be described with reference to  FIG. 10 .  FIG. 10  is a flowchart of the game process. After the game process is started in S 13  of the main process program shown in  FIG. 7 , procedure shifts to S 41  of  FIG. 10  and a rotation process is conducted. In this rotation process, concretely speaking, the reels  220  positioned at the rear side of the variable display portions  22 ,  23 ,  24  begin to rotate based on the switch signal output from the SPIN switch  58 , the 1-BET switch  59 , the 3-BET switch  60  or the 5-BET switch  61 , the switch signal being accepted in S 11  of  FIG. 7 . 
   Thereby, through the variable display portions  22 ,  23 ,  24 , the symbol columns  241 ,  242 ,  243  formed on the peripheries of the reels  220  are variably displayed while scrolling. Thus, variable display of the symbols is performed. 
   In S 42 , a stop control process is conducted. In this stop control process, concretely speaking, each of reels  220  positioned at the rear side of the variable display portions  22  to  24  are stopped for each of the variable display portions  22 ,  23 ,  24 . Thereby, each of the symbol columns  241 ,  242 ,  243  formed on the peripheries of the reels  220  is stopped. Thus, each of the symbols is stopped and displayed. 
   In S 43 , according to the winning symbol combination stopped and displayed in each of the variable display portions  22 ,  23 ,  24 , coins corresponding to the preset payout are paid out based on the table in  FIG. 6 . 
   In S 44 , it is determined whether or not the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, is won. This determination is done based on whether or not the total number of times N the game has been played calculated in S 26  of  FIG. 8  coincides with any of three numbers of times the game must be played to start the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, determined in S 25  of  FIG. 8 . If it is determined that the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, is not won (S 44 : NO), the procedures shifts to S 47 . On the other hand, if it is determined that the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, is won (S 44 : YES), coins (for example, 500 coins) corresponding to the preset payout are paid out, based on the tables in  FIG. 11  in S 45 . In S 45 - 2 , it is determined whether or not the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, is the last ceiling symbol combination, or threshold target value. This determination is done based on whether or not the total number of times N the game has been played calculated in S 26  of  FIG. 8  coincides with the maximum number of times the game must be played to start the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, among three numbers of times the game must be played to start the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, determined in S 25  of  FIG. 8 . Here, if it is determined that the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, is not the last ceiling symbol combination, or threshold target value, (S 45 - 2 : NO), the procedure shifts to S 47 . On the other hand, if it is determined that the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, is the last ceiling symbol combination (S 45 - 2 : YES), “0” is substituted for the total number of times N the game has been played, thereafter the procedure shifts to S 47 . 
   In S 47 , it is determined whether or not the Jack Pot is won. In this determination, it is determined that the Jack Pot is won only if the random number value sampled within a range of 0˜1023 through the random number sampling circuit  56  is “0”. Instead, for example, it may be determined that the Jack Pot is won only if the symbol combination “7-7-7” is won in S 12  of  FIG. 7 . 
   In S 47 , if it is determined that the Jack Pot is not won (S 47 : NO), the main process program of  FIG. 7  is terminated, and the main process program in  FIG. 7  is started anew. On the other hand, if it is determined that the Jack Pot is won (S 47 : YES), coins corresponding to the progressive Jack Pot which is accumulated up to this step are paid out in S 48 . Further, in an initialization process of the Jack Pot in S 49 , “0” is substituted for the progressive Jack Pot, thereby the progressive Jack Pot is reset. Thereafter, the main process program of  FIG. 7  is terminated and the main process program in  FIG. 7  is started anew. 
   As mentioned in detail, in the slot machine  1  of the embodiment, a portion of coins (worth equivalent thereto) bet is added to the progressive Jack Pot (S 27 ). Thereafter, if it is determined that the Jack Pot is won (S 47 : YES), coins (for example, 10000 coins) corresponding to the progressive Jack Pot accumulated up to this step are paid out (S 48 ). Here, a condition to win the progressive Jack Pot is limited to a situation when the random number value sampled within a range of 0˜1023 through the random number sampling circuit  56  is “0”. Therefore, in many cases, the progressive Jack Pot becomes enormous. Thus, although the possibility of winning a large Jack Pot is given to the player, on the contrary, even if the player continues to play games while aiming for the progressive Jack Pot, there will rarely be a case where the player will obtain the progressive Jack Pot. Therefore, the player generally gives up from the start from attempting to obtain the progressive Jack Pot. 
   However, in the slot machine of the embodiment, there are three numbers of times the game must be played to start the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, are determined (S 25 ) based on the lottery using three random number values sampled within a range of 0˜127 through the random number sampling circuit  56  and three tables of  FIG. 11 . Coins corresponding to the preset payout (ceiling value symbol combination), are paid out (S 45 ) based on the tables in  FIG. 11  every time number of times N the game has been played reaches to each of three numbers of times the game must be played to start the ceiling symbol combination, or threshold target value (S 44 ). Thereby, if the player continues to play a maximum 900 slot games to aim for the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, the player can surely win the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, in three times. Therefore, even if the player gives up attempting to obtain the progressive Jack Pot, part of the coins (worth equivalent thereto) bet is accumulated every game, and therefore the interest of the player to continue the slot games can be sufficiently maintained. 
   The payout corresponding to the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, may be set to the same value as shown in  FIG. 11  with no relation to the number of times the game must be played to start the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value. A payout corresponding to the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, may be set differently according to the number of times the game must be played to start the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value. 
   In the slot machine  1  of the embodiment, after the total number of times N the game has been played reaches the predetermined number that is smaller than the value determined as the number of times the game must be played to start the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, the player is thereafter notified after every game conducted that the payout corresponding to the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, is given, by displaying the tables shown in  FIG. 11  on the liquid crystal display  3 . 
   Therefore, for example, it is clear for the player that if the notification is not started after the total number of times N the game has been played becomes “90”, the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, cannot be won even if the total number of times N the game has been played becomes “100” and the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, can be won after the total number of times N the game has been played becomes more than “200”. It is clear that if the notification is not started after the total number of times N the game has been played becomes “190”, the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, cannot be won even if the total number of times N the game has been played becomes “200” and the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, can be won after the total number of times N the game has been played becomes more than “300”. Further, it is clear that if the notification is not started after the total number of times N the game has been played becomes “290”, the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, cannot be won even if the total number of times N the game has been played becomes “300” and the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, can be won after the total number of times N the game has been played becomes more than “400”. Similarly to the above, if the notification is not started after the total number of times N the game has been played becomes “370”, “470”, “570”, “650”, “750” or “850”, it is clear to the player that the same situations as the above has occurred. Therefore, since an index to win the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, is provided, interest of the player to continue the slot games can be sufficiently maintained. 
   Here, the manner of the notification corresponding to the number of times the game must be played to start the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, are described as an example, and thus it is not limited to this description. For example, when the tables shown in  FIG. 11  are displayed on the liquid crystal display  3 , the difference between the total number of times N the game has been played at present and the number of times the game must be played to start the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, which is the nearest to the number N may be displayed. 
   Here, the present invention is not limited to the embodiment and various changes, modifications can be done within the scope of the present invention. 
   For example, in the slot machine  1  of the embodiment, although three numbers of times the game must be played to start the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, are determined (S 25 ) by using three tables shown in  FIG. 11  in which plural numbers of times the game must be played to start the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, are provided, one table may be used in which many numbers of times the game must be played to start the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, are provided. The number of times the game must be played to start the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, may be set only to one number. The number of times the game must be played to start the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, may be determined (S 25 ) based on one table shown in  FIG. 12 . 
   In the slot machine  1  of the embodiment, when the HELP button  8  is pressed during the game, the total number of times N the game has been played is displayed on the liquid crystal display  3 . Here, the total number of times N the game has been played may not be displayed. In this case, the player does not know the number of times N the game has been played and may think that coins corresponding to the payout of the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, will suddenly be paid out. Therefore, the player expects a sudden payout of coins and the interest of the player to continue to play the slot games can be sufficiently maintained. 
   In the slot machine of the embodiment, although the value determined as the number of times the game must be played to start the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, corresponds to the total number of times N the game has been played, instead of this, such value may correspond to the value of the progressive Jack Pot with a specific manner such as “1111”, “2222”, “9999”, “1000”, “2000”, “9000”. However, in this case, coins paid out for the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, are subtracted from the progressive Jack Pot. 
   Further, in the slot machine  1  of the embodiment, if it is determined that the total number of times N the game has been played is “0” (S 24 : YES), three numbers of times the game must be played to start the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, are determined (S 25 ). Here, a specific operation button may be provided on the control panel  5  or the touch panel and three numbers of times the game must be played to start the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, may be determined based on press operation of the specific operation button. 
   In the slot machine  1  of the embodiment, the symbols stopped and displayed on the activated pay line L are determined in the lottery process of S 12  for each of the variable display portions  22 ,  23 ,  24  based on the random number values sampled through the random number sampling circuit  56 . Here, all symbols stopped and displayed on the activated pay line L in the variable display portions  22 ,  23 ,  24  may be determined based on the random number value sampled through the random number sampling circuit  56 . In order to accomplish this, a lottery table of the winning symbol combinations shown in  FIG. 13  is used.  FIG. 13  is an explanatory view showing a lottery table of the winning symbol combinations and payouts thereof. 
   In  FIG. 13 , a random number value range used in the lottery table of the winning symbol combinations is set in a range of 0˜1270, and the random number value sampled through the random number sampling circuit  56  lies in a range of 0˜22, the winning symbol combination “7-7-72 is won and the payout of “100” is obtained. Similarly, each of the payouts of “5”, “3”, “2”, “1” is determined based on the table shown in  FIG. 13 . 
   Here, if the random number value sampled lies in a range of 248˜1279, the game is lost. In this case, although the symbol combination other than the winning symbol combinations is stopped and displayed on the activated pay line L in each of the variable display portions  22 ,  23 ,  24 , no coin is paid out. 
   In the slot machine  1  of the embodiment, although only the base game is played, for example, a free game may be played right after the process of S 13  in  FIG. 7  after the base game is conducted. In the free game, games benefiting the player are generally conducted, and for example, when the free game occurs based on a condition that a specific symbol is stopped and displayed, games are continuously conducted for 10 games, 20 games or 30 games according to a rank of the free game. At that time, in the free game, a winning probability to win various winning symbol combinations is generally set high, therefore the player can obtain many coins. 
   In the slot machine  1  of the embodiment, if it is determined that the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, is won (S 44 : YES), coins corresponding to the preset payout are paid out based on the tables shown in  FIG. 11  (S 45 ). Here, as the payout, instead of coins, the free game mentioned in the above may be conducted in a preset continuous number of times. 
   Further, although the slot machine  1  of the embodiment is constructed as a mechanical reel type slot machine in which the symbols formed on the peripheries of the reels  220  controlled to rotate are variably displayed and stopped through the variable display portions  22  to  24 , the slot machine  1  may be constructed as a video reel type slot machine in which the image symbols are variably displayed and stopped in each of the variable display portions  22  to  24 . 
   Next, a gaming system of the present invention will be described according to the embodiment embodying the present invention in a slot system, with reference to the drawings. At first, an outline construction of a slot system according to the embodiment will be described with reference to  FIGS. 14˜16 .  FIG. 14  is a system block diagram showing a slot system of the embodiment.  FIG. 15  is a block diagram schematically showing a control system of the slot machine constructing the slot system of the embodiment.  FIG. 16  is a block diagram schematically showing a server control system of the slot system according to the embodiment. 
   Here, the slot machine constructing the slot system of the embodiment is the same as that of the slot machine shown in  FIGS. 1 and 2 , except for a difference in construction mentioned hereinafter. Thus, hereinafter, the elements that are the same as those in the slot machine already mentioned above, the same marks (numbers) are used as in the above slot machine and explanation thereof will be omitted. Further, the slot machine  1  shown in  FIGS. 1 and 2  is the same as the slot machine used in the slot system, thus hereinafter the number “1” is used for the slot machine in the slot system. 
   As shown in  FIG. 14 , in a slot system  301  according to the embodiment, a server  302  and a plurality of slot machines  1  are mutually connected through a network  401  with bilateral communication ability. 
   In each of the slot machines  1 , a game communication circuit  311  is connected to the CPU  50  as shown in  FIG. 15 . The game communication circuit  311  converts a signal sent by the slot machine  1  into a communicable signal corresponding to a communication used by a telephone network or a LAN cable. The game communication circuit  311  sends such signal to the server  302 , receives the signal sent from the server  302  and reconverts the signal so that the slot machine  1  can read it. The game communication circuit  311  is connected to the server  302  through a server communication circuit  303  and the network  401  with bilateral communication ability, such as, the Internet. 
   Further, as shown in  FIG. 16 , a control system of the server  302  is basically constructed from a CPU  304 . A ROM  305  and a RAM  306  are connected to the CPU  304 . A Jack Pot and ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, execution process program, a lottery table for the number of times the game must be played to start the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, the table shown in  FIG. 11  which is the table for starting the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, and effect notification, and other various programs necessary to control the server  302  and data tables are stored in the ROM  35 . The RAM  306  is a memory that temporarily stores various data calculated by the CPU  304 . 
   A clock pulse generator  307  for generating standard clock pulses and a frequency divider  308  are connected to the CPU  304 . A random number generator  309  for generating random numbers and a random number sampling circuit  310  are connected to the CPU  304 . The random number sampled through the random number sampling circuit  310  is used in various lotteries such as Jack Pot ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value. 
   The server communication circuit  303  is connected to the CPU  304 . Here, the server communication circuit  303  converts a signal sent by the server  302  into a communicable signal corresponding to a communication used by a telephone network or LAN cable. The server communication circuit  303  sends such signal to each of the slot machines  1 , receives the signal sent from the slot machine  1  and reconverts the signal so that the server  302  can read it. The server communication circuit  303  is connected to each slot machine  1  through the game communication circuit  303  of each slot machine  1  and the network  401  with bilateral communication ability, such as, the Internet. 
   Next, a main process program executed in each of the slot machines  1  of the slot system  301  will be described with reference to  FIG. 17 .  FIG. 17  is a flowchart of the main process program. Here, processes in S 111 ˜S 113  of  FIG. 17  are as same as the processes in S 11 ˜S 13  of  FIG. 7 , therefore the explanation thereof will be omitted. 
   Next, a start acceptance process program conducted in each slot machine  1  of the slot system  301  will be described with reference to  FIG. 18 .  FIG. 18  is a flowchart of the start acceptance process program. The start acceptance process is conducted in S 111  of the main process program in  FIG. 17 . In this start acceptance process in S 111 , at first, processes of S 121 ˜S 123  in  FIG. 18  are sequentially conducted. Here, the processes in S 121  ˜S 123  are the same as those in S 21 ˜S 23 , thus the explanation thereof will be omitted. 
   Therefore, when the HELP button  8  is pressed during the game, the total number of times N the game has been played is displayed on the liquid crystal display  3 . Here, the total number of times N the game has been played is a total number obtained in the server  302  by adding the number of times of the game has been played in each of the slot machines  1 . Thus, if the HELP button  8  is pressed during the game, it is displayed on the liquid crystal display  3  the total number of times N the game has been played (total number of the game conducted in each of the slot machines  1  in the slot system  301 ) which is updated and received from the server  302  at that timing. 
   In S 124 , a Jack Pot accumulation instruction process is conducted, and the slot machine  1  sends an instruction (including information of number of coins bet) to add a part of coins bet (worth equivalent thereto) in the slot machine  1  to the progressive Jack Pot and individual information of the slot machine  1  are sent to the server  302 . Thereafter, the procedure shifts to S 125 . 
   In S 125 , a Jack Pot and ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, result acceptance process is conducted. Thereby, the slot machine  1  receives information indicating that the Jack Pot or the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, is won, a value of the progressive Jack Pot, the total number of times N the game has been played and three numbers of times the game must be played to start the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, from the server  302 . 
   Further, in S 126 , the process to notify the ceiling value symbol combination is conducted. In this process, when the total number of times N the game has been played reaches a predetermined number of times the game has been played that is smaller than the value determined as the number of times the game must be played to start the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, the player is thereafter notified after each game is conducted, that the payout for the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, is given, by displaying the tables shown in  FIG. 11  on the liquid crystal display  3 . Concretely, for example, in a case that three numbers of times the game must be played to start the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, which are received in the process to notify the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, of S 125 , are respectively “700”, “200”, “600”, when the total number of times N the game has been played becomes “190” which is smaller than “200” by “10”, the tables shown in  FIG. 11  are displayed on the liquid crystal display  3  every the total number of times N the game has been played is received till the total number of times N the game has been played reaches to “200”. And when the total number of times N the game has been played becomes “570” which is smaller than “600” by “30”, the tables shown in  FIG. 11  are displayed on the liquid crystal display  3  every the total number of times N the game has been played is received till the total number of times N the game has been played reaches to “600”. Further, when the total number of times N the game has been played becomes “650” which is smaller than “700” by “50”, the tables shown in  FIG. 11  are displayed on the liquid crystal display  3  every the total number of times N the game has been played is received till the total number of times N the game has been played reaches to “700”. 
   Thereafter, the procedure returns to the main process program of  FIG. 17  and shifts to the lottery process in S 112 . 
   Next, the lottery process program conducted in each slot machine  1  of the slot system  301  will be described with reference to  FIG. 19 .  FIG. 19  is a flowchart of the lottery process program. In S 112  of the main process program in  FIG. 17 , the lottery process is conducted. At that time, at first, processes of S 131  and S 132  in  FIG. 19  are conducted. Here, the processes of S 131  and S 132  are as same as those of the processes of S 31  and S 32 , thus the explanation thereof will be omitted. 
   Next, a game process program performed in each slot machine  1  of the slot system  301  will be described with reference to  FIG. 20 .  FIG. 20  is a flowchart of the game process program. Here, in S 113  of the main process program in  FIG. 17 , the game process is conducted. At that time, at first, each of processes in S 141  ˜S 143  is sequentially conducted. Here, the processes in S 141 ˜S 143  are the same as those in S 41 ˜S 43  of  FIG. 10 , thus the explanation thereof will be omitted. 
   In S 144 , it is determined whether or not the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, is won. This determination is done based on whether or not it is received from the server  302  in S 125  of  FIG. 18  the information indicating that the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, is won. Here, if it is determined that the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, is not won (S 144 : NO), the procedure shifts to S 146 . On the other hand, if it is determined that the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, is won (S 144 : YES), coins (for example, 500 coins) corresponding to the preset payout based on the tables in  FIG. 11  are paid out in S 145 . Thereafter, the procedure shifts to S 146 . 
   In S 146 , it is determined whether or not the Jack Pot is won. This determination is done based on whether or not it is received from the server  302  in S 125  of  FIG. 18  the information indicating that the Jack Pot is won. Instead of this, for example, it may be determined that the Jack Pot is won only if the winning symbol combination “7-7-7” is won in S 112  of  FIG. 17 . 
   In S 146 , if it is determined that the Jack Pot is not won (S 146 : NO), the main process program of  FIG. 17  is terminated, thereafter the main process program of  FIG. 17  is newly started. On the other hand, if it is determined that the Jack Pot is won (S 146 : YES), coins corresponding to the value of the progressive Jack Pot received from the server  302  in S 125  of  FIG. 18  are paid out. Thereafter, the main process program of  FIG. 17  is terminated, and the main process program of  FIG. 17  is newly started. 
   Next, a Jack Pot and ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, lottery process, which is conducted in the server  302  of the slot system  301 , will be described with reference to  FIG. 21 .  FIG. 21  is a flowchart of the Jack Pot and ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, lottery process. In  FIG. 21 , at first, it is determined whether or not the Jack Pot accumulation instruction exists in S 201 . This determination is done based on whether or not it has received the instruction (including information of number of coins bet), which is sent from any of the slot machines  1  in S 124  of  FIG. 18 , to add a portion of coins (worth equivalent thereto) bet to the progressive Jack Pot. 
   Here, if it is determined that the Jack Pot accumulation instruction does not exist (S 201 : NO), the procedure returns to S 201  itself and waits until the Jack Pot accumulation instruction occurs. On the other hand, if it is determined that the Jack Pot accumulation instruction exists (S 201 : YES), the procedure shifts to a Jack Pot accumulation process in S 202  and a portion (equivalent worth) of coins received is added to the progressive Jack Pot. Here, the progressive Jack Pot is stored in a memory area of the RAM  306 . 
   In S 203 , it is determined whether or not the Jack Pot is won. In this determination, it is determined that the Jack Pot is won only in a case that the random number value sampled within a range of 0˜1023 through the random number sampling circuit  310  is “0”. Here, if it is determined that the Jack Pot is not won (S 203 : NO), the procedure shifts to S 206 . On the other hand, if it is determined that the Jack Pot is won (S 203 : YES), the procedure shifts to S 204 . In a payout instruction process of S 204 , the information indicating that the Jack Pot is won and the value of the progressive Jack Pot accumulated up to now is sent to the slot machine  1 , which is a sender of the instruction received by the server  302 . Then in an initialization process of the Jack Pot in S 205 , “0” is substituted for the progressive Jack Pot, thereby the progressive Jack Pot is reset. 
   Thereafter, the procedure shifts to S 206  and it is determined whether or not the total number of times N the game has been played is “0”. Here, if it is determined that the total number of times N the game has been played is not “0” (S 206 : NO), the procedure shifts to S 208 . On the other hand, if it is determined that the total number of times N the game has been played is “0” (S 206 : YES), the procedure shifts to S 208  after a ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, lottery process is conducted. 
   The ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, lottery process in S 207  will be described. In the lottery process for ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, in S 207 , three random number values are sampled within a range of 0˜127 through the random number sampling circuit  310 , and three numbers of times the game must be played to start the ceiling symbol combination, or threshold target value, are respectively determined based on the three tables shown in  FIG. 11 . Concretely speaking, if the first random number value sampled through the random number sampling circuit  310  lies in a range of 0˜25, “100” is determined as the number of times the game must be played to start the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, based on the upper table in  FIG. 11 . If the second random number value sampled through the random number sampling circuit  310  lies in a range of 26˜63, “500” is determined as the number of times the game must be played to start the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, based on the middle table in  FIG. 11 . Further, if the third random number value sampled through the random number sampling circuit  310  lies in a range of 64˜127, “900” is determined as the number of times the game must be played to start the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, based on the lower table in  FIG. 11 . That is to say, three values of the number of times the game must be played to start the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, are determined in the lottery process for the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, in S 207 . 
   The ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, is a symbol combination through which a payout is given when the total number of times N the game has been played reaches the value determined as the number of times the game must be played to start the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value. For example, in the lottery process for the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, in S 207 , if three of the number of times the game must be played to start the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, each of which is determined based on each of three tables in  FIG. 11 , are respectively “400”, “800”, “300”, every the total number of times N the game has been played becomes “300”, “400” and “800”, the payout of “500” is given. 
   However, as mentioned, the total number of times N the game has been played is the total number of times obtained by adding the number of times the game has been played in each of the slot machines  1  of the slot system  301 . Therefore, it will be probable that the slot machine  1  can obtain the payout of the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, if the total number of times N the game has been played counted by the server  302  becomes any one of “100”, “200”, “300”, “400”, “500”, “600”, “700”, “800”, “900” when the game is conducted in such slot machine  1 . Here, the tables shown in  FIG. 11  are stored in the ROM  305  and the total number of times N the game has been played is stored in a memory area of the RAM  306 . 
   In the lottery process for the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, in S 207 , the lottery of plural numbers of times the game must be played to start the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, may be conducted beforehand through the random number sampling circuit  310 . Thereafter, three of the number of times the game must be played to start the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, may be determined by a lottery among such plural numbers of times the game must be played to start the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value. Here, in this case, the lottery done beforehand may be conducted right before three of the number of times the game must be played to start the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, are determined within the lottery process for the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, of S 207 , or for example, may be conducted when the total number of times N the game has been played is reset in S 212  mentioned later by substituting the number N for “0”. 
   In S 207 - 2 , three numbers of times the game must be played to start the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, determined in S 207  are sent to the slot machine which a sender of the instruction received by the server  302  in S 201 . 
   Further, in S 208 , “1” is added to the total number of times N the game has been played at present, thereby the total number of times N the game has been played in the present game is calculated. And in S 209 , the total number of times N the game has been played in the present game is sent to the slot machine which is a sender of the instruction received by the server  302  in S 201 . 
   In S 210 , it is determined whether or not the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, is won. This determination is done whether or not the total number of times N the game has been played is calculated in S 208  to coincide with any of three numbers of times the game must be played to start the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, determined in S 207 . If it is determined that the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, is not won (S 210 : NO), the procedure returns to S 201  and processes mentioned in the above are repeated. On the other hand, if it is determined that the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, is won (S 210 : YES), the procedure shifts to S 211 . In a payout instruction process of S 211 , the information indicating that the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, is won is sent to the slot machine  1  which is a sender of the instruction received by the server  302  in S 201 . Further, in S 211 - 2 , it is determined whether or not the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, won in S 210  is the last ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value. This determination is done based on whether or not the total number of times N the game has been played is calculated in S 208  to be the maximum number of times the game must be played to start the ceiling symbol combination, or threshold target value, among three numbers of times the game must be played to start the ceiling symbol combination, or threshold target value, determined in S 207 . Here, if it is determined that the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, is not the last ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, (S 211 - 2 : NO), the procedure returns to S 201 . On the other hand, if it is determined that the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, is the last ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, (S 211 - 2 : YES), “0” is substituted for the total number of times N the game has been played in S 212 , thereby the total number of times N the game has been played is reset. Thereafter, the procedure returns to S 201  and the processes mentioned above are repeated. 
   As mentioned in detail above, in the slot system  301  of the embodiment, a portion of the coins (worth equivalent thereto) bet in the slot machine  1  are added to the progressive Jack Pot in the server  302  (S 207 ). Thereafter, if it is determined that the progressive Jack Pot is won (S 47 : YES), coins (for example, 10000 coins) corresponding to the progressive Jack Pot accumulated up to this point are paid out in the slot machine  1  (S 204 , S 147 ). Here, as a condition to win the progressive Jack Pot, it is limited to a case that the random number value sampled within a range of 0˜1023 through the random number sampling circuit  310  is “0” in the server  302 . Therefore, in many cases, the progressive Jack Pot becomes enormous, thus although the possibility of winning a Jack Pot is given to a player, on the contrary, even if the player continues to play games while aiming for the progressive Jack Pot, there will rarely be a case that the player will obtain the progressive Jack Pot. Therefore, the player generally gives up from the start from attempting to obtain the progressive Jack Pot. 
   However, in the slot system  301  of the embodiment, three numbers of times the game must be played to start the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, are determined (S 207 ) based on the lottery using three random number values sampled within a range of 0˜127 through the random number sampling circuit  310  and three tables of  FIG. 11 , and coins corresponding to the preset payout, are paid out (S 211 , S 145 ) based on the tables in  FIG. 11 , every time the total number of times N the game has been played reaches each of three numbers of times the game must be played to start the ceiling symbol combination, or threshold target value (S 210 ). Thereby, if the player continues to play a maximum of 900 slot games to aim for the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, the player can surely win the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, in three times. Therefore, even if the player gives up trying to obtain the progressive Jack Pot, a portion of the coins (worth equivalent thereto) bet is accumulated every game, and therefore the interest of the player to continue the slot games can be sufficiently maintained. 
   Here, the payout corresponding to the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, may be set to the same value shown in  FIG. 11  with no relation to the number of times the game must be played to start the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value. The payout corresponding to the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, may be set different according to the number times of the game must be played necessary to start the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value. 
   In the slot system  301  of the embodiment, after the total number of times N the game has been played reaches the predetermined number that is smaller than the value determined as the number of times the game must be played to start the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, the player is notified thereafter (S 28 ), in each slot machine  1 , after every game is conducted, that the payout corresponding to the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, is given, by displaying the tables shown in  FIG. 11  on the liquid crystal display  3 . 
   Therefore, for example, it is clear to the player that if the notification is not started after the total number of times N the game has been played becomes “90”, the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, cannot be won even if the total number of times N the game has been played becomes “100” and the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, can be won after the total number of times N the game has been played becomes more than “200”. It is clear that if the notification is not started after the total number of times N the game has been played becomes “190”, the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, cannot be won even if the total number of times N the game has been played becomes “200” and the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, can be won after the total number of times N the game has been played becomes more than “300”. Further, it is clear that if the notification is not started after the total number of times N the game has been played becomes “290”, the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, cannot be won even if the total number of times N the game has been played becomes “300” and the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, can be won after the total number of times N the game has been played becomes more than “400”. Similarly to the above, if the effect notification is not started after the total number of times N the game has been played becomes “370”, “470”, “570”, “650”, “750” or “850”, it is clear for the player that the same situations as the above occurs. Therefore, since an index to win the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, is provided, the interest of the player to continue the slot games can be sufficiently maintained. 
   Here, the manner of the effect notification corresponding to the number of times the game must be played to start the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, are described as an example, thus it is not limited to this. For example, when the tables shown in  FIG. 11  are displayed on the liquid crystal display  3 , it may be displayed the difference between the total number of times N the game has been played at present and the number of times the game must be played to start the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, which is the nearest to the number N. 
   In the slot system  301  of the embodiment, the total number of times N the game has been played, calculated by the server  302 , is calculated on the basis of the games (which are calculation object) conducted in each of the slot machines  1 . Thus, the total number of times N the game has been played reaches to “100”, “500”, “1000”, rapidly in comparison with a case where the number of times the game has been played in independent slot machine  1  becomes the calculation object. Therefore, interest of the player to continue the slot games can be sufficiently maintained. 
   Here, the present invention is not limited to the embodiment and various changes, modifications can be done within the scope of the present invention. 
   For example, in the slot system  301  of the embodiment, although there are three numbers of times the game must be played to start the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, which are determined (S 207 ) by using three tables shown in  FIG. 11  in which plural numbers of times the game must be played to start the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, are provided, one table may be used in which many numbers of times the game must be played to start the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, are provided. The number of times the game must be played to start the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, may be set to only one, number. The number of times the game must be played to start the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, may be determined (S 207 ), based on one table shown in  FIG. 12 . 
   In the slot system  301  of the embodiment, when the HELP button  8  is pressed in each slot machine  1  during the game, the total number of times N the game has been played is displayed on the liquid crystal display  3 . Here, the total number of times N the game has been played may not be displayed. In this case, the player does not know the number of times N the game has been played and may think that coins corresponding to the payout of the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, will suddenly be paid out. Therefore, the player expects sudden payout of coins, and the interest of the player to continue to play the slot games can be sufficiently maintained. 
   In the slot system  301  of the embodiment, although the value determined as the number of times the game must be played to start the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, corresponds to the total number of times N the game has been played, such value may instead correspond to the value of the progressive Jack Pot with a specific manner such as “1111”, “2222”, . . . , “9999”, “1000”, “2000”, . . . , “9000”. However, in this case, coins paid out for the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, are subtracted from the progressive Jack Pot. 
   In each slot machine  1  of the slot system  301  according to the embodiment, the symbols stopped and displayed on the activated pay line L are determined in the lottery process of S 112  for each of the variable display portions  22 ,  23 ,  24  based on the random number values sampled through the random number sampling circuit  56 . Here, all symbols stopped and displayed on the activated pay line L in the variable display portions  22 ,  23 ,  24  may be determined based on the random number value sampled through the random number sampling circuit  56 . In order to achieve this, a lottery table of the winning symbol combinations shown in  FIG. 13  is used. Here, since explanation of  FIG. 13  is already described in the above, the explanation thereof will be omitted. 
   In each slot machine  1  of the slot system  301  according to the embodiment, although the base game is performed, for example, a free game may be performed right after the process of S 113  in  FIG. 17  after the base game is conducted. In the free game, games beneficial for the player are generally conducted, and for example, when the free game occurs based on a condition that a specific symbol is stopped and displayed, games are continuously conducted for 10 games, 20 games or 30 games according to a rank of the free game. At that time, in the free game, a winning probability to win various winning symbol combinations is generally set high, therefore the player can obtain many coins. 
   In the slot system  301  of the embodiment, if it is determined that the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, is won (S 210 : YES), coins corresponding to the preset payout are paid out based on the tables shown in  FIG. 11  (S 211 , S 143 ). Here, as the payout, instead of coins, the free game mentioned in the above may be performed in a continuous number of preset times. 
   Further, although each slot machine  1  of the slot system  301  according to the embodiment is constructed as a mechanical reel type slot machine in which the symbols formed on the peripheries of the reels  220  controlled to rotate are variably displayed and stopped through the variable display portions  22  to  24 , the slot machine  1  may be constructed as a video reel type slot machine in which the image symbols are variably displayed and stopped in each of the variable display portions  22  to  24 . 
   In the slot system  301  of the embodiment, it is determined whether or not both of the Jack Pot and ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, are won (S 203 , S 210 ). Here, it may be independently determined in each slot machine  1  whether or not the ceiling value symbol combination, or threshold target value, is won, including calculation of the total number of times N the game has been played, or it may be independently determined in each slot machine  1  whether or not the progressive Jack Pot is won, including calculation of the value of the progressive Jack Pot. 
   And in the slot system  301  of the embodiment, although the server  302  different from the slot machine  1  constructs a part of the system, the function of the server  302  may be charged by any of the slot machines  1  and the server  302  may be excluded. 
   The present invention can be adopted for technology of a gaming machine in which the progressive Jack Pot is utilized.