Game system

Abstract

To provide an interesting and innovative game system.SOLUTION: A system includes a storage unit storing a database capable of associating and managing game machines with a game parlor where the game machines are installed, and an identification unit capable of identifying the game parlor where the game machine corresponding to used key information is installed when a user uses the key information corresponding to the game machine. The identification unit is capable of executing association processing to associate a first privilege with the identified game parlor.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 8

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a gaming system. [Background technology]

[0002] BACKGROUND ART Conventionally, there has been known a gaming machine in which the rotation of a rotating reel is stopped based on the operation of a stop switch by a player to allow a game to proceed (see Patent Document 1).

[0003] In such gaming machines, players can enjoy a game in which the gaming value increases or decreases depending on the winning combination achieved in each game. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2022-135405 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] The inventors of the present application have devised an exciting and original gaming system that utilizes such conventionally familiar gaming machines to connect players, arcades, and gaming machine manufacturers.

[0006] An object of the present disclosure is to provide an interesting and innovative gaming system. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The present disclosure provides: a storage unit storing a database capable of managing gaming machines in association with the arcades where the gaming machines are installed; an identification unit that can identify the store where the gaming machine corresponding to the used key information is installed, in response to the user using the key information corresponding to the gaming machine on the gaming machine; Equipped with The identification unit is capable of executing an association process to associate a first benefit with the identified store. It is a system. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the present disclosure, an interesting and innovative gaming system can be provided. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a conceptual diagram of a gaming system. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a system server. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of a hall computer. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a user terminal. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a front view of the slot machine. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of a slot machine and a card unit. [Figure 7] A diagram explaining the connection / communication relationship between the main control board, the game value control board, and the sub-control board. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing a benefit granting process. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] [First embodiment] A gaming system AS according to an embodiment of the gaming machine of the present disclosure will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 8. Note that the embodiment described below is merely one example of the present invention, and the embodiment of the present invention can be modified as appropriate without departing from the spirit of the present invention. In the following description, "connection" includes cases where connection targets are directly connected to each other, and cases where connection targets are indirectly connected to each other via other boards or devices, etc.

[0011] <Explanation of Gaming System AS> As shown in FIGS. 1 to 4, the gaming system AS is made up of a system server SS (an example of a specific unit), a hall computer HC, a slot machine 1, and a user terminal UD.

[0012] As shown in Figures 5 and 6, the slot machine 1 of this embodiment is a reel-type gaming machine in which physically existing medals are not used, and the quantity of gaming value is managed by electronic data (hereinafter referred to as "gaming value data").

[0013] Each slot machine 1 is installed in a store H.

[0014] Each parlor H is equipped with one or more hall computers HC. The hall computers HC manage the slot machines 1 installed in each parlor H. Specifically, the hall computers HC acquire data relating to game progress, game value, etc. from each slot machine 1 and manage this data. The hall computers HC also manage the individual identification codes (hereinafter referred to as "game machine IDs") of each slot machine.

[0015] The user terminal UD is a terminal device used by a player playing a game on the slot machine 1, and examples thereof include a smartphone and a tablet.

[0016] The system server SS is a server provided by a business that provides predetermined content (e.g., videos, applications), and is located outside the store H. The system server SS transmits and receives data between the hall computer HC and the user terminal UD. The business may be the manufacturer or seller of the slot machine 1.

[0017] Each device constituting the gaming system AS of this embodiment will be described below.

[0018] <System Server SS Description> The system server SS provides the user terminal UD with specified content and a specified password (an example of key information; hereinafter referred to as the "gaming machine PASS"), and also provides the gaming machine PASS and a new machine discount coupon (an example of the first benefit) that allows a discount when a new gaming machine is introduced to the hall computer HC.

[0019] 2, the system server SS includes a control unit SS01, a storage unit SS02, and a network interface SS03. The storage unit SS02 and the network interface SS03 are electrically connected to the control unit SS01 via a bus SS09.

[0020] The control unit SS01 is composed of a CPU (Central Processing Unit), memory, various input / output interfaces, etc., and controls the operation of the system server SS.

[0021] The control unit SS01 also manages the store H where the slot machine 1 is installed, the gaming machine ID of the slot machine, the gaming machine PASS corresponding to the slot machine 1, the user ID which is the player's account information, and the like.

[0022] Specifically, the control unit SS01 can store in the storage unit SS02 of the system server SS, in association with the store H identified by the player's use of the gaming machine PASS, the gaming machine ID of the slot machine 1 on which the gaming machine PASS was used, and the gaming machine PASS that was used. In other words, in this embodiment, in order for the player to input the gaming machine PASS, the slot machine 1 must be one whose gaming machine ID is managed by the control unit SS01 of the system server SS.

[0023] Then, when the content is purchased on the user terminal UD, the control unit SS01 associates the specified content and gaming machine PASS with the user terminal UD (grants it to the user) based on the gaming machine ID of the slot machine 1 being sent from the user terminal UD.

[0024] The gaming machine PASS is a password with a validity period that is set in advance for the slot machine 1 at the time of shipping, etc., and is valid for a predetermined period (e.g., three years). This gaming machine PASS is managed by the system server SS, the hall computer HC, and the slot machine 1, respectively.

[0025] In addition, when a player inputs a gaming machine PASS into a slot machine 1, the control unit SS01 identifies the store H where the corresponding slot machine 1 is installed and issues a new machine discount coupon to the hall computer HC of that store H (an example of an association process).

[0026] Furthermore, when the control unit SS01 performs the various processes described above, it updates the various pieces of information stored in the storage unit SS02.

[0027] The storage unit SS02 is composed of a hard disk drive (HDD), random access memory (RAM), read only memory (ROM), solid state drive (SSD), and the like.

[0028] The memory unit SS02 stores, for example, the program according to this embodiment, as well as the gaming machine ID of the slot machine 1 transmitted from the user terminal UD, the store H in which the slot machine 1 is installed, the gaming machine PASS for the slot machine 1, and so on.

[0029] The network interface SS03 is connected to the communication network NW and can send and receive data to and from the hall computer HC, the user terminal UD, and the like.

[0030] <Hall computer HC configuration> The hall computer HC is installed in each store H and manages the slot machines 1 installed in that store H and data such as game values ​​managed by the slot machines 1.

[0031] 3, the hall computer HC includes a control unit HC01, a memory unit HC02, and a network interface HC03. The memory unit HC02 and the network interface HC03 are electrically connected to the control unit HC01 via a bus HC09.

[0032] The control unit HC01 is composed of a CPU, memory, various input / output interfaces, etc., and controls the operation of the hall computer HC. For example, the control unit HC01 manages the game progress and amount of game value at each slot machine 1, as well as information about the store H, the gaming machine ID of the slot machine 1, the gaming machine PASS associated with the gaming machine ID, etc.

[0033] The control unit HC01 also transmits to the system server SS a signal indicating that the gaming machine PASS has been input from the slot machine 1. This allows the system server HC1 to transmit a new machine discount coupon to the hall computer HC. This new machine discount coupon is managed by the hall computer HC.

[0034] When the control unit HC01 performs the various processes described above, it updates the various pieces of information stored in the storage unit HC02.

[0035] The storage unit HC02 is composed of an HDD, RAM, ROM, SSD, and the like.

[0036] The memory unit HC02 stores, for example, the program according to this embodiment, the gaming status of each slot machine 1, the amount of gaming value, as well as the gaming machine ID of the slot machine 1 installed in the store H, the gaming machine PASS for that slot machine 1, its validity period, discount coupons for new machines, etc.

[0037] The network interface HC03 is connected to the communication network NW and can send and receive data to and from the system server SS, user terminal UD, etc. The network interface HC03 is also connected to the slot machine 1 and card unit 7. The network interface HC03 can obtain information about the game status and information about balls dispensed from the slot machine 1, and can obtain information about the amount of game value dispensed from the card unit 7. Information about the game status includes information about normal mode, automatic time adjustment, and special mode. Information about balls dispensed includes the difference between the total number of game value bets and the total number of payouts on the slot machine 1. Information about the amount of game value dispensed includes the amount of game value currently held in the card unit 7.

[0038] <User terminal UD configuration> The user terminal UD is used by each player who plays on the slot machine 1. The user terminal UD accepts purchase operations for content and / or services (examples of content, such as videos and applications) based on the program according to this embodiment.

[0039] As shown in FIG. 4, the user terminal UD has a monitor UD4, a speaker UD51, a microphone UD52, a controller UD6, and a camera UD7 either externally connected or built-in.

[0040] The user terminal UD also includes a control unit UD01, a storage unit UD02, a network interface UD03, a graphics processing unit UD04, an audio processing unit UD05, an operation unit UD06, and an imaging data processing unit UD07.

[0041] The storage unit UD02, network interface UD03, graphics processing unit UD04, audio processing unit UD05, operation unit UD06, and imaging data processing unit UD07 are electrically connected to the control unit UD01 via a bus UD09.

[0042] The control unit UD01 is configured with a microcomputer including a CPU and semiconductor memory, and controls the operation of the user terminal UD. For example, the control unit UD01 performs communication processing between the user terminal UD and the system server SS, content purchase processing, etc.

[0043] The control unit UD01 receives the content designated by the player, the gaming machine PASS, and the like in the communication process with the system server SS.

[0044] The control unit UD01 also accepts the player's operation to purchase content and input the gaming machine ID.

[0045] Then, the control unit UD01 transmits the user ID, the content purchase request signal, the gaming machine ID, and the like to the system server SS.

[0046] After the control unit UD01 transmits the purchase request signal and the gaming machine ID to the system server SS, the control unit UD01 receives a gaming machine PASS from the system server SS. This gaming machine PASS is displayed on the monitor UD4.

[0047] The storage unit UD02 is composed of an HDD, RAM, ROM, SSD, etc. The storage unit UD02 stores purchased content, gaming machine PASS received from the system server SS, etc.

[0048] The network interface UD03 is connected to a communication network NW such as the Internet or a LAN, and is capable of communicating with the system server SS and the like.

[0049] The graphics processing unit UD04 draws an image including various objects in a still image format or a moving image format according to the image information output from the control unit UD01. The graphics processing unit UD04 is connected to a monitor UD4, which is, for example, a liquid crystal display. The drawn image is displayed on the monitor UD4.

[0050] The audio processing unit UD05 is connected to the speaker UD51 and the microphone UD52. The audio processing unit UD05 plays back and synthesizes audio in accordance with the signal from the control unit UD01, and outputs this from the speaker UD51.

[0051] Furthermore, when voice including the player's speech is input to the microphone UD52, the audio processing unit UD05 performs voice processing to remove noise such as static from the voice and stores the result in the storage unit UD02.

[0052] The operation unit UD06 is connected to a controller UD6 that is configured with a touch panel or the like, and when an operation input is made to the controller UD6, data relating to the corresponding operation input is generated.

[0053] The imaging data processing unit UD07 is connected to the camera UD7, and when the camera UD7 captures a moving image or a still image of the player, the imaging data is subjected to image processing and stored in the storage unit UD02.

[0054] The card unit 7 and the slot machine 1 will be described below.

[0055] <Configuration of card unit 7> As shown in FIG. 6, the card unit 7 is connected to the slot machine 1 outside the slot machine 1 so as to be able to communicate with the slot machine 1.

[0056] The card unit 7 can store therein a card 70 that stores gaming value data as electronic data in place of medals that are real objects.

[0057] The details of the card unit 7 are the same as those of a conventional medal-less machine, so a detailed explanation will be omitted.

[0058] <Configuration of Slot Machine 1> As described above, the slot machine 1 of this embodiment is a medal-less machine that allows a game to proceed without using medals, which are real objects. In the slot machine 1 of this embodiment, a game is played using gaming value data as electronic data, instead of medals, which are real objects.

[0059] As shown in Fig. 5, the slot machine 1 includes a cabinet 10. A front door 100 is provided on the front of the cabinet 10. This front door 100 is locked while a game is in progress.

[0060] A transparent reel window 200 is provided in the center of the front door 100. Through this reel window 200, a player can see multiple symbols displayed on the surface of each of the multiple rotating reels 20, which will be described later.

[0061] Above the reel window 200, there are provided a liquid crystal screen 3, a speaker 101, and an illumination unit 102 for performing various effects during a game.

[0062] The liquid crystal screen 3 is equipped with a monitor LED and a backlight, and displays various effect videos (effect screens) while the player is playing.

[0063] The speaker 101 outputs predetermined background music (BGM), sound effects (SE), and audio.

[0064] The illumination unit 102 is composed of LEDs and the like, and lights up or goes out in a predetermined pattern when, for example, a highly anticipated performance screen is displayed or a winning combination is achieved.

[0065] Below the reel window 200, there are provided an operation unit 4, a lower panel 103, a front bottom 104, etc. The lower panel 103 displays the title of the slot machine 1, etc. Also, LED lighting is provided on the back side of the lower panel 103. The front bottom 104 is designed to allow players to place their personal belongings, etc.

[0066] The operation unit 4 includes a plurality of stop switches 40 (40a, 40b, 40c), a bet switch 41, a lever 42, a digital counter 43, a count button 44, a cancel button 45, and a performance button 46.

[0067] Near each switch of the operation unit 4, a sensor is provided that detects the operation by the player and outputs an operation signal to the control unit 6.

[0068] Each stop switch 40a, 40b, 40c is provided corresponding to each reel 20 (20a, 20b, 20c). The stop switches 40a, 40b, 40c accept an operation to stop the rotation of the corresponding reel 20a, 20b, 20c while the reel 20a, 20b, 20c is rotating.

[0069] Lamps are provided inside the stop switches 40a, 40b, and 40c. The lamps can indicate by a color (e.g., red) that the stop switches 40a, 40b, and 40c are in an inoperative state, for example, from when the lever 42 is operated until the reels 20a, 20b, and 20c reach a steady rotation state. Furthermore, the lamps can indicate by a different color (e.g., blue) that the stop switches 40a, 40b, and 40c are in an operable state, for example, from when the reels 20a, 20b, and 20c reach a steady rotation state until the stop switches 40a, 40b, and 40c are operated.

[0070] The bet switch 41 is used when a player bets game value. The credited game value and the amount of bet game value are managed by the slot machine 1 (media management unit 620). The bet switch 41 is also provided with a lamp inside or around it that lights up when the operation is valid and goes out when the operation is invalid.

[0071] The lever 42 functions as a start switch that receives an operation to rotate the reels 20a, 20b, and 20c.

[0072] The digital counter 43 digitally displays the number of gaming value credits, the number of gaming value paid out (acquired), etc. By checking the digital counter 43, the player can also check the amount of gaming value he or she possesses while playing.

[0073] The counting button 44 can accept an operation by the player to transfer the gaming value data from the media management unit 620 to the card unit 7. When the counting button 44 accepts an operation by the player, a transfer signal is generated in the counting button 44. The counting button 44 also has a lamp inside or around it that changes its light color or turns on / off depending on whether it is not being operated or is being operated.

[0074] The cancel button 45 can accept an operation by a player to change a gaming value that has been bet (betting state) to a non-betting state (non-betting state). When the cancel button 45 accepts an operation by a player, a cancel signal is generated by the cancel button 45. After that, the media management unit 620, which receives the cancel signal, manages the gaming value data that has been bet as a non-betting state. The cancel button 45 also has a lamp inside or around it that changes its light color or turns on / off depending on whether it is being operated or not.

[0075] The effect button 46 (including the up and down keys, the enter button, etc.) is a button used on the menu screen to display the gaming machine ID, which is an individual identification menu for the slot machine 1, set the light intensity of the LEDs in the illumination unit 101, set the volume of the speaker 102, check game data, and perform various other menu settings related to the game. The effect button 46 may also be operated by the player during play depending on the effect. When the effect button 46 is operated during play, a change occurs in the effect.

[0076] The effect button 46 also has a lamp inside or around it that can emit light in various colors and patterns. The lamp is lit when the effect button 46 is in an enabled state, and is turned off when the effect button 46 is in an disabled state.

[0077] As shown in FIG. 6, a reset button 51 and a setting change button 52 are provided inside the housing 10.

[0078] The reset button 51 is operated to clear various errors and initialize the RAM that constitutes the control unit 6. For example, when the power of the slot machine 1 is switched from off to on while the reset button 51 is being operated, the quantity of game value managed by the media management unit 620 is cleared to "0," and the second game state of the slot machine 1 is set to the "general game state," and the game zone is set to the "normal zone."

[0079] The setting change button 52 is a button that is operated by a store staff member when one of multiple setting values ​​is set in the slot machine 1. For example, when the power of the slot machine 1 is switched from off to on while the slot machine 1 is set in the setting change mode, the setting change button 52 becomes operable, and when the setting change button 52 is operated in this state, the setting value can be set.

[0080] 6, the slot machine 1 includes a spinning reel unit 2 and a control unit 6 (consisting of a main control unit 61 mounted on a main control board P1, a game value control unit 62 mounted on a game value control board P2, and a sub-control unit 63 mounted on a sub-control board P3). The spinning reel unit 2 and the control unit 6 are arranged inside the cabinet 10 together with a power supply device for supplying voltage to the slot machine 1, etc.

[0081] As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the spinning reel unit 2 includes three spinning reels 20a, 20b, and 20c, and three stepping motors 21a, 21b, and 21c.

[0082] For example, symbols are arranged on the surfaces of the reels 20a, 20b, and 20c. When the reels 20a, 20b, and 20c stop spinning, a game result determination unit 612 (described later) determines whether the combination of symbols displayed on the pay line L (described later) is a predetermined combination of symbols, and the game progresses.

[0083] The stepping motors 21a, 21b, and 21c are provided corresponding to the rotating reels 20a, 20b, and 20c, and drive the corresponding rotating reels 20a, 20b, and 20c.

[0084] The stepping motors 21a, 21b, 21c stop the rotation of the rotating reel 20 (e.g., 20a) corresponding to the operated stop switch 40 (e.g., 40a) within 190 ms after the stop switch 40a, 40b, 40c is operated while the rotating reels 20a, 20b, 20c are rotating.

[0085] The rotation and stopping of these reels 20a, 20b, and 20c and stepping motors 21a, 21b, and 21c are controlled by a reel control unit 611, which will be described later.

[0086] <The flow of play by players> A player operates the bet switch 41 to use the credited gaming value to bet gaming value on the slot machine 1. When a predetermined number (for example, 3) of gaming value is bet on the slot machine 1, the pay line L is activated. After that, the lever 42 can be operated, i.e., the game can be started.

[0087] Figure 5 shows an example in which the activated line L is configured in the upper row of the reel window 200 for the left rotating reel 20a, the middle row of the reel window 200 for the middle rotating reel 20b, and the lower row of the reel window 200 for the right rotating reel 20c.

[0088] In this embodiment, one game (one play) refers to a series of actions in which a player operates the bet switch 41, lever 42, stop switches 40a, 40b, 40c, etc. to obtain a predetermined play result, including internal lottery, winning determination processing, and processing to increase or decrease play value data.

[0089] Specifically, when the lever 42 is operated (lever on) in a state where a game can be started, an internal lottery is conducted to determine a winning flag, and the rotation of the reels 20a, 20b, and 20c begins. In this state, when any of the stop switches 40a, 40b, and 40c is operated, the rotation reel 20 (20b) corresponding to the operated stop switch 40 (for example, 40b) stops. When all the rotation reels 20a, 20b, and 20c stop, a payout process of a predetermined amount of game value is executed according to the combination (winning symbol combination) of symbols aligned (winning) on ​​the pay line L. This completes one game.

[0090] At least some of the information regarding the progress of the game until these predetermined game results are obtained (for example, the bet switch 41 being operated, the lever 42 being operated, the stop switch 40 being operated, the internal lottery being executed, the predetermined role being won, the rotation of the reel, etc.) is managed by the main control unit 61 mounted on the main control board P1.

[0091] <Configuration of control unit 6> As mentioned above, the control unit 6 is composed of a main control unit 61 implemented on the main control board P1, a game value control unit 62 implemented on the game value control board P2, and a sub-control unit 63 implemented on the sub-control board P3.

[0092] The connection relationships and communication processes of the main control board P1, the game value control board P2, and the sub-control board P3 will be described below with reference to FIG.

[0093] The main control board P1 and the game value control board P2 are electrically connected by a harness, and two-way serial communication is possible.

[0094] The information and commands sent from the main control board P1 to the game value control board P2 include outer edge information, whether or not settings are being changed, commands related to various errors, a signal requesting a bet of game value when the bet button 41 is operated, a signal requesting the payout of game value corresponding to a winning role, a signal requesting bet cancellation processing when the cancel button 45 is operated, and a request for transfer of game value when the counting button 44 is operated.

[0095] The information and commands sent from the game value control board P2 to the main control board P1 include information that the complete function (described below) has been activated, information that the number of credits has reached the upper limit (a value set to prompt the player to transfer credits because the number of credits is too high), information regarding whether or not there is a communication abnormality between the card unit 7 and the slot machine 1, and various responses to requests from the main control unit 61.

[0096] The main control board P1 and the sub-control board P3 are electrically connected by a harness, but only one-way serial communication is carried out from the main control board P1 to the sub-control board P3.

[0097] The information and commands sent from the main control board P1 to the sub-control board P3 include information regarding game value (for example, information on bets / payouts of game value, total amount of game value won during AT), information regarding the game status and game area, information regarding the start / end of game play, information regarding the start / end of device operation, information regarding various errors, and information regarding whether the player is able to operate lever 42, etc.

[0098] The game value control board P2 and the sub-control board P3 are electrically connected by a harness, but serial communication is carried out in one direction from the game value control board P2 to the sub-control board P3.

[0099] The information and commands sent from the game value control board P2 to the sub-control board P3 include the range (MY) described below, information indicating the operation of the complete function, commands related to advance notification before the complete function is activated, information related to the transfer of game value (for example, that transfer has started, that transfer is in progress, that transfer is complete, etc.), information indicating the number of credits or the number of credits acquired, information that the number of credits has reached the upper limit, error information if a backup error in the number of credits has occurred, and information as to whether the player is able to operate the counting button 44, etc.

[0100] <Description of main control unit 61> The main control unit 61 is composed of an MPU implemented on the main control board P1, and functions as an internal lottery unit 610, a rotating reel control unit 611, a game result determination unit 612, a setting value control unit 613, a section control unit 614, a game status control unit 615, an RT status control unit 616, and an error determination unit 617.

[0101] <Internal lottery section 610> The internal lottery unit 610 performs an internal lottery based on the operation of the lever 42, and can select one flag from among a plurality of winning combination flags as a winning flag.

[0102] <Rotary reel control unit 611> The rotating reel control unit 611 controls the driving of the stepping motors 21a, 21b, and 21c based on the operation of the lever 42 or each stop switch 40a, 40b, and 40c, and can perform rotation start control to start the rotation of each rotating reel 20a, 20b, and 20c, or rotation stop control to stop the rotation.

[0103] <Explanation of the Game Result Determination Unit 612> The game result determination unit 612 can determine the game result (for example, whether or not the winning combination has been awarded) based on the internal lottery result output from the internal lottery unit 610 and the results of the rotation stop control of the rotating reels 20a, 20b, and 20c.

[0104] <Explanation of Setting Value Control Unit 613> Based on the operation of the setting change button 52 by the store staff, the setting value control unit 613 can perform game progress using any one of a plurality of types of setting values (for example, 1 to 6) with different degrees of advantage in game progress control.

[0105] Also, the setting value control unit 613 transmits setting value information, which is information about the currently set setting value, to the later-described effect control unit 630. Thereby, the effect control unit 630 can perform an effect lottery game and setting suggestions.

[0106] <Interval Control Unit 614> The interval control unit 614 can perform game progress by setting any one of a plurality of game intervals (a normal interval and an advantageous interval).

[0107] <Game State Control Unit 615> The game state control unit 615 can perform game progress by setting each of the first game state (for example, during the execution of a special combination, inside the special combination) and the second game state (for example, a general game state, special game states such as AT, CZ, etc.).

[0108] [[ID=2l]] <RT State Control Unit 616> The RT state control unit 616 can perform game progress using one of a plurality of RT states (a table used for internal lottery, and an RT state in which a replay probability is determined in advance). [[ID=2u]]

[0109] <Error Judgment Unit 617> The error judgment unit 617 can judge the presence or absence of various errors. Examples of various errors include backup abnormality, communication abnormality between the main control board P1 and the game value control board P2, connection abnormality between the slot machine 1 and the card unit 7, reaching the upper limit value of the credit number, and the like.

[0110] <Explanation of Game Value Control Unit 62> The gaming value control unit 62 is configured by an MPU mounted on the gaming value control board P2, and functions as a media management unit 620 and a function operation unit 621.

[0111] <Explanation of the Media Management Unit 620> The media management unit 620 can manage the number of credits of gaming value and the number of bets. The media management unit 620 also calculates a range (MY), which is the difference between the maximum and minimum values ​​of the difference number, using the difference number of gaming value, which is the cumulative value obtained by subtracting the number of bets of gaming value from the number of payouts of gaming value since the slot machine 1 was last powered on. Information such as the number of credits of gaming value is transferred to the card unit 7 when the operator issues a transfer instruction.

[0112] <Function Activation Unit 621> The function activation unit 621 can receive information about the range (MY) transmitted from the medium management unit 620. Then, when the range (MY) becomes equal to or greater than the first range, for example, 18500, the function activation unit 621 generates information about a prior notification indicating that activation of the complete function is imminent.

[0113] This complete function is a so-called stop function, and when the complete function is activated, the slot machine 1 will no longer accept any operations related to play, and the player will not be able to continue playing (the machine will enter a state where play is not possible) unless the power is turned off and on by store staff.

[0114] <Explanation of the sub-control unit 63> The sub-control unit 63 is implemented on the sub-control board P3 and functions as a performance control unit 630 through the operation of a microcomputer and the like.

[0115] <Production control unit 630> By executing a performance lottery, the performance control unit 630 can determine at least one of the following as the performance pattern: a video / still image to be output on the LCD screen 3, a sound pattern to be output from the speaker 101, a lighting pattern of the lighting unit 102 such as an LED, or a lighting pattern of the performance button 46.

[0116] The performance control unit 630 also displays the gaming machine ID based on the player's operation on the menu screen. The performance control unit 630 may be able to switch between displaying and hiding the gaming machine ID on the menu screen based on the operation of the store staff. The gaming machine ID is stored in the memory unit of the main control board P1, for example, and is shared with the sub-control board P3 (performance control unit 630).

[0117] The performance control unit 630 also manages the gaming machine PASS and its validity period that are preset in the slot machine 1. Specifically, the gaming machine PASS and its validity period are stored in a storage unit installed in the sub-control board P3 when the slot machine 1 is shipped, for example.

[0118] The performance control unit 630 also receives a gaming machine PASS based on the player's operation of the up / down keys, the enter button, etc. on the menu screen. The performance control unit 630 then determines whether the input gaming machine PASS is valid.

[0119] If the input gaming machine PASS is valid (if the gaming machine PASS is correctly input to the corresponding slot machine 1 within the validity period of the gaming machine PASS), the presentation control unit 630 provides a presentation lottery game related to the setting suggestion.

[0120] When an effect lottery game is executed based on the player's operation, the effect control unit 630 executes an effect lottery to select one of the copper icon, silver icon, gold icon, maple icon, and rainbow icon based on the setting value information received from the setting value control unit 613, and displays the result (setting suggestion).

[0121] Specifically, when a player requests a lottery for effects, the effect control unit 630 executes an effect in which a copper icon is selected if the currently set value is 2, an effect in which a silver icon is selected if the currently set value is 3, an effect in which a gold icon is selected if the currently set value is 4, an effect in which a maple icon is selected if the currently set value is 5, and an effect in which a rainbow icon is selected if the currently set value is 6.

[0122] In this way, a player can obtain a gaming machine ID on the menu screen, and by entering the gaming machine ID when accessing the system server SS from the user terminal UD and purchasing specified content, can obtain a gaming machine PASS for the corresponding slot machine 1.

[0123] Then, the player can obtain the right to play the effect lottery game (an example of a second benefit) by inputting the gaming machine PASS into the corresponding slot machine 1 within the validity period of the gaming machine PASS.

[0124] By executing this effect lottery game, the player can determine the setting value set in the slot machine 1.

[0125] In addition, the effect control unit 620 transmits a signal to the system server SS via the hall computer HC indicating that a gaming machine PASS has been input to the slot machine 1. This allows the system server SS to identify the parlor H into which the gaming machine PASS has been input.

[0126] <Benefit granting process flow> Next, the benefit granting process of this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0127] First, the flow branches based on whether or not the gaming machine ID is set to be displayed on the menu screen of the slot machine 1 based on an operation by a store staff member (step S1).

[0128] If the gaming machine ID is not displayed on the menu screen (S1: NO), the bonus awarding process ends.

[0129] On the other hand, if the gaming machine ID is displayed on the menu screen (S1: YES), the user terminal UD accepts the user's content purchase operation (step S2), and at that time, accepts the player's input of the gaming machine ID on the content purchase screen (step S3).

[0130] As a result, the system server SS transmits the content, the generated gaming machine PASS, and its validity period to the user terminal UD (step S4).

[0131] Next, the slot machine 1 accepts a gaming machine PASS on the menu screen of the slot machine 1 based on an operation on the slot machine 1 by the player (step S5).

[0132] Next, the flow branches based on whether or not a correct gaming machine PASS has been input to the corresponding slot machine 1 within the valid period (step S6).

[0133] If the correct gaming machine PASS is not input to the corresponding slot machine 1 within the valid period (S6: NO), the bonus awarding process ends.

[0134] On the other hand, if the correct gaming machine PASS is entered into the corresponding slot machine 1 within the validity period (S6: YES), the system server SS identifies the store H (hall computer HC) and issues a new machine discount coupon to the hall computer HC (step S7).

[0135] Furthermore, if the correct gaming machine PASS is entered into the corresponding slot machine 1 within the validity period (S6: YES), the slot machine 1 will grant the player the right to play the performance lottery game (step S8), separate from step S7.

[0136] Then, the slot machine 1 executes an effect lottery game on the slot machine 1 based on the operation of the player (step S9), and executes a setting suggestion (step S10). The reward awarding process is carried out through the above steps.

[0137] To summarize the above, the gaming system AS is: a memory unit SS02 of a system server SS that stores a database that can associate and manage the slot machine 1 and the hall computer HC of the store H where the slot machine 1 is installed; a system server SS that can identify the store H where the slot machine 1 corresponding to the used gaming machine PASS is installed in response to the player using (e.g., inputting) key information (e.g., gaming machine PASS) corresponding to the slot machine 1; Equipped with The system server SS can execute an association process to associate the first benefit (for example, a discount coupon for a new machine) with the identified store H.

[0138] <Effects of the Invention> 2. Description of the Related Art Gaming machines have been known in the past that allow a game to proceed by stopping the rotation of a rotating reel based on a player's operation of a stop switch.

[0139] In such gaming machines, players can enjoy a game in which the gaming value increases or decreases depending on the winning combination achieved in each game.

[0140] In response to this, the inventors of the present application have devised an exciting and innovative gaming system that utilizes such traditionally familiar gaming machines to connect players, arcades, and gaming machine manufacturers.

[0141] Specifically, in the slot machine of this embodiment, a gaming machine ID, which is an individual identification code of the slot machine, is displayed on the menu screen.

[0142] When a player accesses the system server from a user terminal to purchase a specific content (e.g., a video), the player can obtain the content and also obtain a gaming machine PASS that is valid for, for example, 30 minutes by entering the gaming machine ID displayed on the menu screen.

[0143] By entering the correct gaming machine PASS for the relevant slot machine within the validity period, the player will be given the right to play a designated lottery game (a lottery game related to setting suggestions), and the store will be able to obtain a discount coupon for a new machine.

[0144] In this way, according to the present disclosure, it is possible to provide an interesting and innovative gaming system that has never been seen before.

[0145] [Other embodiments] The various control means and processing procedures described in the above embodiments are merely examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention, its applications, or its uses. The various control means and processing procedures can be appropriately modified in design without changing the gist of the present invention. Furthermore, the various control means, processing procedures, and processing contents described in each embodiment can be configured individually or combined as appropriate.

[0146] Furthermore, the various definitions used in this specification are commonly used throughout the specification unless otherwise specified in each example.

[0147] In the above embodiment, an example is described in which there is one system server and one hall computer, but the present disclosure is not limited to this. The system server and the hall computer may be configured with multiple computers.

[0148] The new machine discount coupon may be given to the hall computer when the player purchases the content, or may be given even if the gaming machine PASS is not entered into the slot machine.

[0149] In the above embodiment, the storage unit SS01 storing the database is described as being installed in the system server, but the configuration of the present disclosure is not limited to this. The storage unit may be installed outside the system server. In this case, the system server receives the necessary data from the storage unit and executes the benefit granting process of the present disclosure.

[0150] In addition, in the above embodiment, an example is described in which the gaming machine PASS is valid for three years, but the configuration of the present disclosure is not limited to this. For example, the gaming machine PASS may be valid for one year, or may be valid for any period.

[0151] Furthermore, a gaming machine PASS may be input into one slot machine only once, or multiple times, for example, up to three times. In this case, for example, a new machine discount coupon may be issued to a store only once, and the right to the performance lottery game may be granted to a player up to two times.

[0152] Furthermore, when a player inputs a gaming machine ID, the player may input numbers / symbols using up and down keys on the menu screen, or may use the camera on the user terminal to read a two-dimensional code indicating the gaming machine ID displayed on the menu screen.

[0153] Furthermore, without being limited to the above embodiment, it is not necessary to be able to switch between displaying and hiding the gaming machine ID on the menu screen. In this case, the gaming machine ID may be always displayed, or may be displayed only while the input of the gaming machine PASS is permitted (for example, in a case where the input of the gaming machine PASS is permitted up to four times, the gaming machine ID may be displayed only when the input of the gaming machine PASS is less than four times).

[0154] Furthermore, a player may choose not to input a gaming machine ID when purchasing content. In this case, the player can obtain the content, but cannot obtain a gaming machine PASS.

[0155] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, an example is described in which the slot machine is an AT machine, but the slot machine may also be an ART (Assisted Replay Time) machine, or it may be a bonus-only slot machine that does not execute AT, ART, etc., or a slot machine that can execute both a bonus and AT (or ART).

[0156] Although the slot machine in the above embodiment is a medal-less machine, the slot machine to which the present invention is applied does not have to be a medal-less machine. If the slot machine is not a medal-less machine, the slot machine will have components such as a medal insertion slot, a medal payout slot, and a hopper.

[0157] In addition, although the above embodiment describes an example of a so-called smart slot machine, the present invention is not limited to this. In this case, the slot machine may have an upper limit (for example, 4000 games) on the number of games in which the advantageous zone can be executed.

[0158] Furthermore, the gaming machine is not limited to slot machines, but the present invention can also be applied to so-called enclosed pinball gaming machines, i.e., Smart Pachinko (registered trademark), which is equipped with a handle, a pinball launching device, an electric tulip, etc. [Explanation of symbols]

[0159] AS Gaming System SS System Server SS02 Memory section (database) UD user terminal HC Hall Computer 1. Slot machines (gaming machines) 61 Main control unit 610 Internal Lottery 611 Rotating reel control unit 612 Game result determination unit 613 Setting value control section 614 Section Control Unit 615 Game status control unit 616 RT state control unit 617 Error detection unit 62 Game value control unit 620 Media Management Department 621 Functional operating part 63 Sub-controller 630 Production Control Unit

Claims

1. a storage unit storing a database capable of managing gaming machines in association with the arcades where the gaming machines are installed; an identification unit that can identify the store where the gaming machine corresponding to the used key information is installed, in response to the user using the key information corresponding to the gaming machine on the gaming machine; Equipped with the identification unit is capable of executing an association process of associating a first benefit with the identified store. system.

2. the identification unit is capable of associating a second benefit with the user in response to the user's use of the key information on the gaming machine. The system of claim 1 .

3. The identification unit When the identification code attached to the gaming machine is received, The key information associated with the identification symbol can be assigned to the user; and The store identified by the user using the key information, the identification code of the gaming machine on which the key information was used, and the used key information can be stored in the database in association with each other. The system of claim 1 .

4. The identification unit content and / or services (hereinafter "content") can be associated with the user; and The key information can be assigned to the user upon associating the content or the like with the user. The system of claim 1 .

5. The gaming machine into which the key information can be input is the gaming machine in which the identification unit manages an identification code. The system of claim 1 .

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