Gaming Machines

Abstract

To provide a game machine that is improved in board configuration.SOLUTION: A game machine 301 is a medal-less game machine that includes: a main control board 310 capable of executing control relating to a game; and a medal number control board 312 capable of executing control relating to a game value. The medal number control board 312 includes first control information for controlling one of the types of game machine and second control information for controlling the other types of game machine and can execute specific control relating to imparting a game value on the basis of receiving prescribed information from the main control board 310 using either the first control information or the second control information.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 14

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a gaming machine installed in an amusement parlor or the like. [Background technology]

[0002] 2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, there have been gaming machines such as slot machines that allow a game to be played without the intervention of physical gaming media such as medals (for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2015-134010 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, conventional gaming machines have room for improvement. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] In order to solve the above problems, one aspect of the present invention is A gaming machine capable of playing a game without using actual gaming media and capable of managing a gaming value that can be used for a game comprises: a gaming control means capable of executing control related to a game; a gaming value control means capable of executing control related to the gaming value; and a display means capable of displaying information related to the gaming value when the gaming value is awarded to a player, wherein the gaming control means comprises first specification information and second specification information different from the first specification information as information transmittable to the gaming value control means, and the gaming value control means comprises first control information for controlling one type of gaming machine and second control information for controlling another type of gaming machine, and based on receiving the first specification information from the gaming control means, the display mode of the display means when the gaming value is awarded to a player can be controlled to a first display mode using the first control information, and based on receiving the second specification information from the gaming control means, the display mode of the display means when the gaming value is awarded to a player can be controlled to a second display mode using the second control information. Configured it. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0006] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic front view showing an external appearance of a medal-less gaming machine according to a first embodiment. FIG. [Diagram 2] 1 is a schematic perspective view showing an internal configuration of a medalless gaming machine according to a first embodiment. FIG. [Diagram 3] 1 is a block diagram showing a control configuration of the medalless gaming machine of the first embodiment. FIG. [Figure 4] 4 is a flowchart showing a gaming method in the medalless gaming machine of the first embodiment. [Diagram 5] FIG. 2 is a state transition diagram showing the transition of game states in the medalless gaming machine of the first embodiment. [Figure 6] 1A and 1B are diagrams illustrating the light emission patterns of the counting button lamp of the first embodiment, where (a) shows an off state, (b) shows a lit state, (c) shows slow blinking, and (d) shows fast blinking. [Figure 7] 1A and 1B are diagrams illustrating an example of notification information prompting a count in the first embodiment, where (a) shows a small display and (b) shows a large display. [Figure 8] 6 is a flowchart showing a method of notifying the presence or absence of inserted medals after counting is completed in the first embodiment. [Figure 9] 13A is an example of notification information when there are no inserted medals remaining after counting is completed, and FIG. 13B is an example of notification information when there are inserted medals remaining after counting is completed. [Figure 10] 6 is a time chart showing the continuation of a long press state of the counting button in the first embodiment. [Figure 11] (a) is a diagram showing that a bonus announcement is on hold while the counting button is being operated, and (b) is a diagram showing that if certain conditions are met, a bonus announcement is executed even while the counting button is being operated. [Figure 12] FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing the control configuration of a gaming machine according to a second embodiment. [Figure 13] 13 is a graph showing a schematic diagram of the change in the difference in number of coins on the day of playing of the gaming machine of the second embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing the control configuration of a gaming machine according to a third embodiment. [Figure 15] 13 is a flowchart showing a model identification information transmission process in a main control board in a medalless gaming machine of a third embodiment. [Figure 16] 13 is a flowchart showing a model identification information receiving process in a medal count control board in a medalless gaming machine of a third embodiment. [Figure 17] 13 is a flowchart showing a payout information transmission process in a main control board in a medalless gaming machine of a third embodiment. [Figure 18] 13 is a flowchart showing a payout process in a medal count control board in a medalless gaming machine of a third embodiment. [Figure 19] 13 is a diagram for explaining the display contents on the game medal count display device when medals are paid out in the medalless gaming machine of the third embodiment. FIG. [Figure 20] 13 is a flowchart showing game number counting processing in a medal number control board in a medalless gaming machine of a third embodiment. [Figure 21] 13 is a flowchart showing a bonus information transmission process in a medal count control board in a medalless gaming machine of a third embodiment. [Figure 22] 13 is a flowchart showing a limiting function activation process in a medal count control board in a medalless gaming machine of a third embodiment. [Figure 23] A flowchart showing the push order bell role winning monitoring process on the medal count control board in the medalless gaming machine of the third embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0007] A preferred embodiment of a gaming machine according to the present invention will now be described. (First embodiment) In the first embodiment, a gaming machine having the main functions that are the premise of the present invention will be described. The gaming machine of this embodiment is a gaming machine (hereinafter also referred to as a medalless gaming machine) that does not use actual medals (gaming media), but instead manages medals as data and plays using a pseudo-gaming medium in that data format. Below, we will explain an example of applying the present invention to a No. 6 slot machine having an AT (ART) state as a medal-less gaming machine, but the present invention is not limited to this and can also be applied to, for example, an A-type slot machine that allows real bonus play. It should be noted that the medals as data used in medalless gaming machines are referred to as "game medals."

[0008] FIG. 1 is a schematic front view showing the appearance of a medalless gaming machine. FIG. 2 is a schematic perspective view showing the internal configuration of the medalless gaming machine. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the medal-less gaming machine 1 includes a cabinet 1b and a front door 1a that opens and closes to cover an opening of the cabinet. A display window 6 through which the rear can be seen is formed in the center of the front door 1a, and symbols displayed on the reels 41 can be seen through this display window 6. Below the display window 6, a step is formed that protrudes forward, and around this step, operating means such as the bet button 2a, MAX bet button 2b, counting button 2c, settlement button 2d, start lever 3, and stop button 5, as well as notification means such as a game medal count display device 7, counting button lamp 2e, and bet number lamp 2f are provided. A favorable zone lamp 13 is provided on the side of the display window 6, and a navigation lamp 12 is provided above the display window 6 to guide the player through the operation sequence of the stop buttons 5. The upper part of the front door 1a is provided with a display 8 that acts as a notification means. The display 8 can be, for example, a single-screen liquid crystal display, but is not limited to this and may be a multi-screen configuration (for example, a main screen and a sub-screen). Note that instead of or in addition to the display 8, a liquid crystal display may be provided at the bottom (lower panel) of the front door 1a, and the display 8 is not necessarily provided.

[0009] On the side of the display 8, there is a speaker 9 that acts as an alarm means and produces sound effects and notifications, and a lamp 11 that produces light effects and notifications in response to the winning combination or the effects displayed on the display 8.

[0010] Inside the cabinet 1b, there is a main control unit 10 equipped with a CPU that performs overall control of the game, and also a sub-control unit 20 equipped with a CPU that controls the game presentation and other aspects under the control of the main control unit 10. The housing 1b also includes a drum unit 4. The drum unit 4 includes three reels 41a to 41c arranged in parallel in the horizontal direction, and each of the reels 41 is configured to be rotatable by the drive of a stepping motor (not shown). A plurality of symbols (identification information) are displayed on the outer peripheral surface of each of the reels 41a to 41c in a predetermined arrangement, and when the reel 41 is in a stopped state, a predetermined number of consecutive symbols (e.g., three) can be seen through the display window 6 for each of the reels 41a to 41c. A power supply device 15 for supplying power to each device including the main control unit 10 and the sub-control unit 20 is provided inside the housing 1b. A game medal count clear button 14 and a probability setting device 16 are provided inside the cabinet 1b, and a dedicated unit 19, which is an inter-machine device, is located adjacent to the outside of the gaming machine in correspondence with each medalless gaming machine 1 (not shown).

[0011] As shown in Figure 3, the main control unit 10 is connected to various parts such as the bet button 2a, the MAX bet button 2b, the settlement button 2d, the start lever 3, the stop button 5, the dedicated unit 19, the drum unit 4, the advantageous zone lamp 13, the counting button 2c, the game medal number display device 7, the game medal number clear button 14, the probability setting device 16, and the power supply unit 15. In addition, the dashed line portion in FIG. 3 (dedicated unit 19) indicates that it is an external device. The main control unit 10 functions as a lottery means capable of executing lotteries related to games, and also detects and controls the operation of each of the above-mentioned units, transitions the game state, and outputs predetermined commands (control information) to the sub-control unit 20 at predetermined timing. The sub-controller 20 is connected to various components such as the navigation lamp 12, the counting button lamp 2e, the bet number lamp 2f, the display 8, the speaker 9, the lamp 11, and the like. The sub-controller 20 operates as a performance control means, and controls the operation of each of the above-mentioned parts in response to commands (control information) from the main controller 10.

[0012] The operation of the main parts will now be described. The game medal number display device 7 is a game value display means, and displays the total number of game medals (game value) that can be used in a game. Therefore, the player can insert game medals within the range of the game medal number displayed on the game medal number display device 7 to play the game. The game medal count display device 7 is equipped with a storage means (such as a RAM) and a display means (such as a 7-segment LED), and when game medals are lent out or paid out, the main control unit 10 adds up the number lent out or paid out, stores (records) the addition result (total) in the storage means as the "game medal count," and displays it on the display means. Furthermore, when game medals are inserted, the main control unit 10 subtracts the number of inserted medals from the “number of game medals” “stored and displayed” in the game medal number display device 7 . The game medals are dispensed by operating a dedicated unit 19, which is an inter-machine device, and the game medals are inserted by operating the bet button 2a or the MAX bet button 2b. An upper limit (for example, 16,300) is set for the number of game medals (amount of game value) that can be stored and displayed in the game medal count display device 7, and if the total number of game medals paid out due to winning exceeds the upper limit, a "play not possible" control is executed so that play is not possible. In the "unplayable" state, operations of the start lever 3, the bet button 2a, the MAX bet button 2b, and the settlement button 2d are not accepted.

[0013] The bet button 2a and the MAX bet button 2b are operating means used to insert (bet) game medals when starting a game. When pressed, the bet button 2a sets the number of bets to "1" (temporarily stored in the RAM), and when pressed, the MAX bet button 2b sets the maximum number of bets to "3" (temporarily stored in the RAM). In response to a pressing operation of the BET button 2 a or the MAX BET button 2 b, the main control unit 10 subtracts the corresponding bet number from the number of game medals stored and displayed on the game medal number display device 7 .

[0014] The start lever 3 is an operating means that is operated by a player when starting a game after inserting a gaming medal. The stop button 5 is an operating means that is pressed to stop the reel 41 that rotates in response to the operation of the start lever 3.

[0015] The count button 2c is an operating means that is operated when the player performs a counting process on the game medals that he / she has acquired. Specifically, the counting button 2c is a counting operation means that is operated to output at least a portion of the game medals (game value) displayed on the game medal number display device 7 (game value display means) as counting data to a dedicated unit 19 (external) outside the machine. For this reason, the count button 2c is operated when the game is ended, but is not limited to this and can be operated at any time in principle (even during the game or when the game is not available). The count button 2c counts different amounts depending on how it is pressed. For example, when the count button 2c is "short pressed" (e.g., pressed for less than 500 milliseconds), the main control unit 10 outputs count data that indicates that "1" game medal has been counted, i.e., the counted amount "1", to the dedicated unit 19. In this case, the main control unit 10 executes a process of subtracting the counted amount "1" from the game medal count stored and displayed in the game medal count display device 7. When the count button 2c is "pressed and held" (for example, pressed for 500 milliseconds or longer), the main control unit 10 outputs count data that indicates that the maximum number of game medals "50" has been counted, that is, the maximum number of game medals "50", to the dedicated unit 19. In this case, the main control unit 10 executes a process of subtracting the number of game medals (maximum "50") from the number of game medals stored and displayed in the game medal number display device 7. For example, if the count button 2c is pressed and held down when the game medal count display device 7 displays a game medal count of "50 or less," the maximum number of game medals that can be counted is "50," thereby counting all game medals. In this case, the main control unit 10 outputs count data capable of identifying the counted number to the dedicated unit 19, and subtracts the counted number from the number of game medals stored and displayed in the game medal number display device 7. As a result, the number of game medals stored and displayed on the game medal number display device 7 is updated to "0." Furthermore, if the counting button 2c is pressed and held continuously while the game medal count display device 7 displays a game medal count of "over 50", the game medal count will be "50" in response to the first detection of a long press, and a maximum of "50" game medals will be counted each time a long press is detected from the second time onwards (for example, every 300 milliseconds). In this case, the main control unit 10 outputs count data capable of specifying the total count amount to the dedicated unit 19, and subtracts the total count amount from the number of game medals stored and displayed in the game medal number display device 7. In addition, the counting data output to the dedicated unit 19 based on the continued long press may be a lump-sum output of counting data that allows the total counting amount to be identified when the continued long press ends, or counting data that allows the counting amount (maximum 50) to be identified may be output individually each time a long press is detected. The dedicated unit 19 manages, for example, the total number of medals counted until the return button is operated as the number of medals held. In addition to the normal count button 2c, separate count buttons may be provided, such as a button that can count 100 sheets with a short press, or a count button that stops at 500 sheets even if pressed for a long time.

[0016] In this manner, the number of game medals stored and displayed in the game medal number display device 7 can be subtracted by the counting process. Therefore, if the number of game medals exceeds the upper limit and the "unplayable" state occurs, as a countermeasure, the "unplayable" state can be lifted by operating the counting button 2c to reduce the number of game medals below the upper limit.

[0017] The game medal count clear button 14 is an operation means for a store clerk to reset (to 0) the game medal count stored and displayed in the game medal count display device 7. When the game medal number clear button 14 is operated, the main control unit 10 updates the game medal number stored and displayed in the game medal number display device 7 to "0." Therefore, the “unplayable” state can also be released by a store clerk operating the game medal count clear button 14.

[0018] The settlement button 2d is an operation means that is operated when returning the set bet number to the game medal number display device . For example, when the settlement button 2d is pressed and the bet number is set to "1", the main control unit 10 clears the bet number and adds "1" to the number of game medals stored and displayed in the game medal number display device 7. When the settlement button 2d is pressed while the bet number is set to "2", the main control unit 10 clears the bet number and adds "2" to the number of game medals displayed on the game medal number display device 7. When the settlement button 2d is pressed with the bet number set to "3", the main control unit 10 clears the bet number and adds "3" to the number of game medals displayed on the game medal number display device 7. In other words, the settlement button 2d is a specific operating means that can be operated to add the game medals (game value) set as the bet number (multiple bets) to the number of game medals (game value) displayed on the game medal number display device 7 (game value display means). Therefore, when the player wishes to end the game, when he / she confirms that the number of bets has been set by checking that the number of bets lamp 2f is lit, he / she may press the settlement button 2d. As a result, the number of game medals corresponding to the set bet number is added to the number of game medals stored and displayed in the game medal number display device 7, and the bet number can then be returned together with the number of game medals by subsequently pressing the counting button 2c.

[0019] It should be noted that the function of the settlement button 2d can also be given to other operating means such as the bet button 2a. For example, when the bet button 2a is "short pressed", the bet number "1" is set, and when the bet button 2a is "long pressed", the operation of the settlement button 2d (the return operation described above) is performed.

[0020] The bet number lamp 2f is a notification means for notifying the player that the bet number has been set and the bet number (1 to 3 bets) by lighting an LED before the start of a game. The sub-control unit 20 controls to light one lamp (for example, the "1 BET" lamp shown in FIG. 1) when the bet number is set to "1", to light two lamps (for example, the "1 BET" and "2 BET" lamps shown in FIG. 1) when the bet number is set to "2", and to light three lamps (for example, the "1 BET", "2 BET", and "3 BET" lamps shown in FIG. 1) when the bet number is set to "3". That is, the bet number lamp 2f is a bet number display means, and displays the bet number (game value) set as a bet number in a game at least before the start of a game. When the sub-controller 20 detects the start of a game (operation of the start lever 3), it performs control to turn off the bet number lamp 2f. In addition, when the sub-controller 20 detects that game medals corresponding to the number of bets have been inserted in response to the operation of the settlement button 2d, it performs control to turn off the bet number lamp 2f. That is, the bet number lamp 2f is turned on when the bet number is set, and is turned off when a gaming medal is inserted.

[0021] The advantageous zone lamp 13 is a notification means for notifying the player that he or she is in an advantageous state. The advantageous zone lamp 13 lights up during an advantageous zone, but may also be configured to light up during an advantageous zone and during a game state (AT, etc.) in which medals are increasing. However, it is also possible to provide the advantageous zone lamp 13 but not turn it on. It is also not necessary to provide the advantageous zone lamp 13. In this case, it is preferable to provide a lamp that lights up during AT instead of the advantageous zone lamp 13 so that it is not difficult to recognize during AT.

[0022] The probability setting device 16 can change the probability of winning the AT into multiple stages (for example, six stages). The main control unit 10 stores one of the set values ​​in the storage unit based on the probability setting operation of the probability setting device 16 by the game center staff, and controls the winning probability of the AT based on the stored set value. For example, setting 1 is the lowest winning probability, and the higher the number, the higher the winning probability.

[0023] The dedicated unit 19 is a lending device that lends out game medals. The dedicated unit 19 is provided outside the medal-less gaming machine 1, and is connected to the medal-less gaming machine 1 via a connection terminal board so as to be able to communicate data with the medal-less gaming machine 1. When a dispensing operation such as inserting cash (banknotes) is performed in the dedicated unit 19, the dedicated unit 19 outputs, to the medal-less gaming machine 1, dispensing data capable of specifying the number of gaming medals to be lent. In the medal-less gaming machine 1, the main control unit 10 specifies the number of game medals to be lent based on the inputted lending data, and adds the specified number of lent medals to the number of game medals stored and displayed in the game medal number display device 7.

[0024] The dedicated unit 19 also serves as a return device for returning game medals. Specifically, the medal-less gaming machine 1 outputs to the dedicated unit 19 count data that can specify the counted number of gaming medals based on the operation of the count button 2c. The dedicated unit 19 receives the count data output from the medal-less gaming machine 1 and manages the counted number of gaming medals specified based on the count data as the number of held medals. The dedicated unit 19 includes a card unit (not shown), and the card unit (not shown) can store (record) the number of medals held in an IC card. The IC card can be ejected from the card unit by performing a return operation (pressing the return button). The ejected IC card can be handed over to a prize exchange corner in the game center to exchange the number of medals held for a prize, or can be inserted into the card unit of another dedicated unit 19 to play again using the number of medals held. The dedicated unit 19 and the game medal count display device 7 are linked, so that if the number of game medals stored and displayed in the game medal count display device 7 is at least "1" or more, the IC card cannot be discharged by the return operation, and the IC card can be discharged by the return operation only when the number of game medals is "0". In other words, the player cannot obtain the IC card until all game medals have been counted. This prevents the player from failing to return any remaining game medals.

[0025] The dedicated unit 19 can be connected to computers such as hall computers or management computers via a relay device or directly, and is capable of outputting game information such as out and safe, sales information, etc. to the computer. This makes it possible, for example, for the computer to tally up the number of outs, safes, prize balls, etc. for each gaming machine, and to calculate the error balls from this gaming information.

[0026] A game in the medal-less gaming machine 1 (also called medal-less game) will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. A game start process is executed (S1). In the game start process, first, the medal-less gaming machine 1 inputs the lending data output from the dedicated unit 19. Specifically, when a player performs an operation to lend gaming medals in the dedicated unit 19, lending data capable of specifying the number of medals to be lent is output from the dedicated unit 19, and the medal-less gaming machine 1 inputs this lending data. When the lending data is input to the medalless gaming machine 1, the main control unit 10 specifies the number of medals to be lent based on the lending data, and stores and displays the number of gaming medals corresponding to the number of medals lent in the gaming medal number display device 7. When the "number of loaned medals" is "100", the initial number of medals displayed on the medal number display device 7 is "0", so it is updated from "0" to "100" (=0+100). In the game start process, next, game medals are inserted in response to an operation by the player. Specifically, the bet number is set as the number of game medals to be used in one game in response to the operation of the bet button 2a or the MAX bet button 2b. When the number of game medals displayed on the game medal number display device 7 is "100" and the number of bets is set to "3", the main control unit 10 updates the number of game medals stored and displayed on the game medal number display device 7 from "100" to "97" (=100-3), and the sub-control unit 20 lights up all three lamps of the bet number lamp 2f. When the bet number (for example, 3 bets) is set as the number of game medals to be used in one game, the game is ready to start, and the operation of the start lever 3 is valid.

[0027] A lottery process is executed (S2). When the start lever 3 is tilted in a state in which a game is ready to start, the game starts, and the main control unit 10 executes an internal lottery process for determining a winning combination for the current game from among a plurality of winning combinations. In response to the tilting operation of the start lever 3, the sub-controller 20 performs control to turn off the bet number lamp 2f. When the bet number lamp 2f goes out, it indicates that the number of game medals inserted (bet) has been used.

[0028] A reel spin process is executed (S3). Specifically, the main control unit 10 starts the movement of the reels 41a to 41c on which a plurality of symbols are displayed. After gradually increasing the rotation speed from a stopped state, the reels 41a to 41c reach a steady rotation speed at a constant speed, and the stop buttons 5a to 5c provided corresponding to the reels 41a to 41c become pressable.

[0029] A reel stopping process is executed (S4). When each of the stop buttons 5a to 5c is pressed, the main control unit 10 controls the stop of each of the reels 41a to 41c so that a combination of symbols permitted by the operation timing and the lottery result of the internal lottery process is displayed.

[0030] The prize-winning process is executed (S5). The main control unit 10 controls the stopping of the reel 41 so that it stops with a combination of symbols that corresponds to the winning result of the internal lottery process, based on the timing of the operation of the stop button 5. After the third stop operation, the main control unit 10 determines that a winning combination has been achieved if the combination of symbols that has stopped on the winning line is a predetermined combination. Incidentally, "after the third stop operation" refers to the point after the player releases his / her finger or the like from the stop button 5 that was used to stop the third reel, and the third reel refers to the reel that is stopped in the third and final operation (third stop operation) when the stop operations for each of the three reels 41a to 41c are performed once each for a total of three times.

[0031] A payout process is executed (S6). When it is determined that a specific small winning combination has been won, a process of paying out a corresponding number of game medals is executed. For example, when the main control unit 10 determines that a 10-coin payout role has been won, it adds the payout number "10" to the number of game medals stored and displayed on the game medal number display device 7.

[0032] The medal-less gaming machine 1 can execute the processes S1 to S6 while transitioning between a plurality of game states. FIG. 5 is a transition diagram of playable game states in the medalless gaming machine 1. As shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 5, the medal-less gaming machine 1 is configured to be able to transition between a normal gaming state, a CZ state, and an AT state. The main control unit 10 executes control so as to transition from one game state to another game state based on the establishment of a predetermined transition condition. For example, a CZ transition lottery to determine a transition to the CZ state and an AT transition lottery to determine a transition to the AT state are executed in each game, and if the CZ transition lottery is won, the player transitions to the CZ state from the next game onwards, and if the AT transition lottery is won, the player transitions to the AT state from the next game onwards. The sub-controller 20 performs effects via a notification means such as a display 8 according to the game state and predetermined conditions. For example, a winning / losing branching effect may be displayed during a continuous effect (for example, in the CZ state, a display may be displayed suggesting the possibility of winning the AT over multiple games, while the results of the AT transition lottery may be displayed in response to operation of a specific operating means (for example, the MAX BET button 2b)). The normal game state is set to a normal probability state and a high probability state, and in each game, the probability of transition to the CZ state or the AT state is controlled so that the high probability state is higher than the normal probability state. In addition, the probability of winning the AT is controlled so that a high setting value is higher than a low setting value. In addition, the probability of winning the AT can be made different depending on the winning combination. For example, the probability of winning the AT when a rare combination is won is set to be higher than that when a non-rare combination is won.

[0033] The main control unit 10 is provided with a zone control means that can control the game zone to either a normal zone or an advantageous zone, separately from the above game state. The normal zone is a game zone in which push order navigation is not executed, and begins when the next game starts after the advantageous zone ends, and ends when the advantageous zone transition conditions are met. In addition, in the initial state (when reset) of the main control unit 10, it is controlled to the normal zone, and in the normal zone, the advantageous zone lamp 13 is controlled to the off state. In addition, in the normal zone, a transition to the advantageous zone is determined when the conditions for transition to the advantageous zone are met, for example, when a predetermined role is won in an internal lottery.

[0034] The advantageous zone is a play zone in which push order navigation may be executed, and is a play zone that is more advantageous to the player than the normal zone because push order navigation may be executed. In addition, the advantageous zone begins when the next game is started after the advantageous zone transition condition is satisfied in the normal zone, and ends when a predetermined advantageous zone end condition is satisfied. The conditions for the end of the advantageous zone are that the advantageous zone ends and transitions to the normal zone when a specified game state ends or when the advantageous zone limiter is reached. The advantageous zone limiter is set when the condition "the number of game medals won (the difference) during one advantageous zone reaches the upper limit (for example, 2400)" is met. For this reason, the main control unit 10 counts the number of game medals acquired during the advantageous zone and stores it in the memory unit. In addition, in the advantageous zone, the advantageous zone lamp 13 is controlled to be lit. However, without being limited to this, the advantageous zone lamp 13 may start to light up when the game state (such as during AT) is reached in which the number of game medals held by the player increases after transitioning to the advantageous zone. Also, it is possible to provide the advantageous zone lamp 13 but not turn it on. It is also not necessary to provide the advantageous zone lamp 13. In this case, it is preferable to provide a lamp that lights up during AT instead of the advantageous zone lamp 13 so that it is not difficult to recognize during AT.

[0035] A game end process is executed (S7). In the game end process, a counting process of game medals is executed. Specifically, when the player operates the count button 2 c , the main control unit 10 counts the number of game medals stored and displayed in the game medal number display device 7 . More specifically, when the count button 2c is pressed for a short time, the count amount "1" is subtracted from the number of game medals stored and displayed in the game medal number display device 7. When the count button 2c is pressed for a long time, the maximum count amount "50" is subtracted from the number of game medals stored and displayed in the game medal number display device 7. When the count button 2c is continuously pressed, the maximum count amount "50" is continuously subtracted from the number of game medals stored and displayed in the game medal number display device 7. As a result, count data that can identify the counted amount is output to the dedicated unit 19. The dedicated unit 19 stores the total number of the counted amounts based on the input count data as the number of medals held. In the dedicated unit 19, in response to a return operation, the number of medals held is stored in the IC card in the card unit, and then the IC card is ejected from the card unit. The IC card can be dispensed only when the number of game medals stored and displayed in the game medal number display device 7 is "0". Therefore, the player needs to operate the count button 2c to execute the counting process until the number of game medals displayed on the game medal number display device 7 becomes "0". The player can play again or exchange the prize based on the dispensed IC card. To play again, an IC card is inserted into the card unit instead of inserting cash at S1. As a result, a game start process (S1) can be executed in response to a lending operation or the like in the dedicated unit 19, and then the lottery process (S2) to the payout process (S6) can be executed.

[0036] The medal-less gaming machine 1 according to the present invention has the following characteristic configurations in addition to the configurations described above. Each of the configuration items may be installed independently or in combination.

[0037] (Counting guidance by notification means) In the medal-less gaming machine 1 of the present invention, the sub-controller 20 can execute a notification to encourage the operation of the counting button 2c by a notification means such as the counting button lamp 2e. The count button lamp 2e is an LED lamp provided around the count button 2c. The count button lamp 2e can be built into the count button 2c to make the count button 2c itself emit light. For example, when the count button 2c is in an operable state, the count button lamp 2e is turned on, and when the count button 2c is in an inoperable state, the count button lamp 2e is turned off. In other words, when the number of game medals stored and displayed in the game medal number display device 7 is "0" as shown in FIG. 6(a), the counting button lamp 2e is turned off, and when the number of game medals is "1" or more as shown in FIG. 6(b), the counting button lamp 2e is turned on. This makes it possible to inform the player that the count button 2c can be operated when the count button lamp 2e is lit. Also, when the number of game medals stored and displayed in the game medal number display device 7 is close to the upper limit (for example, 15,000 or more), the count button lamp 2e is controlled to flash. In this way, by flashing the counting button lamp 2e, the player can be further encouraged to operate the counting button 2c. In other words, by illuminating the counting button lamp 2e so that the player can easily recognize it, the player can be informed that if the number of game medals is close to the upper limit and the game medals are paid out at this rate, a "no play" state will occur, and that the "no play" state can be avoided by operating the counting button 2c before the "no play" state is reached. When the count button lamp 2e is flashed, it is possible to control the flashing speed to be faster as the number of game medals approaches the upper limit. This makes it easier for the player to recognize that the number of game medals is approaching the upper limit. For example, when the number of game medals stored in the game medal count display device 7 is "15,000 or more and less than 16,000" (for example, "15,000" as shown in Figure 6(c)), the counting button lamp 2e is made to flash slowly, and when the number of game medals is "16,000 or more and less than 16,000" (for example, 16,000 as shown in Figure 6(d)), the counting button lamp 2e is made to flash rapidly. In this way, the notification means such as the counting button lamp 2e can be configured to light up (first notification) the counting button lamp 2e to prompt the player to operate the counting button 2c (counting operation means) when the number of game medals (amount of game value) displayed on the game medal number display device 7 (game value display means) is, for example, "15,000 to 16,000" (first amount), and can be configured to light up (second notification) the counting button lamp 2e to prompt the player to operate the counting button 2c (counting operation means) when the number of game medals (amount of game value) displayed on the game medal number display device 7 (game value display means) is, for example, "16,000 to 16,300" (more than the first amount and less than the upper limit value), and the second notification is configured to flash more rapidly than the first notification so as to be easier for the player to recognize. The counting guidance can be achieved by changing the color of the light emitted from the counting button lamp 2e. For example, the counting button lamp 2e can be lit or flashing in green as a first notification, and the counting button lamp 2e can be lit or flashing in red as a second notification. Moreover, such stepwise counting guidance can also be notified via the display 8. For example, as shown in Figure 7(a), the first notification may display the notification information "Please count" in small letters (small display), and as shown in Figure 7(b), the second notification may display the notification information "Please count" in large letters (large display). As shown in FIG. 7(b), notification information such as "XX more sheets to reach the upper limit" may be added. The notification information can also be notified by sound information such as voice from a speaker. It is also possible to make a notification every predetermined number of games, and the interval between games can be made shorter or the volume can be increased so that the notification timing becomes faster as the upper limit value is approached. By providing counting guidance using such an alarm means, it is possible to guide the player to the appropriate counting operation before the upper limit value is exceeded in the game medal count display device 7, resulting in a "game unplayable" state, thereby preventing the player from reaching the "game unplayable" state.

[0038] (Used when showing the count button) The count button 2c can be used as an operating means during performance. For example, as a winning / losing branching effect in a continuous effect, the sub-control unit 20 normally announces a message such as "Press the MAX BET button" via the display 8 etc., but can instead announce a message such as "Press the counting button", execute a premium effect in response to operation of the counting button 2c, or display a message such as "Defeat XXX bodies" and execute a premium effect in response to the counted amount reaching XXX by operation of the counting button 2c, thereby linking the effect with the counting. Also, when counting is desired, the frequency of these effects may be increased. For example, the closer the number of game medals stored and displayed on the game medal number display device 7 approaches the upper limit, the more frequently the effects are executed. Also, the control may be such that an effect linked to the counting operation is executed only when the "game medal number" exists (is 1 or more). In other words, in an alarm means such as a display 8, when the number of game medals (game value) displayed on the game medal number display device 7 (game value display means) is "1" or more, an alarm can be executed to prompt the operation of the counting button 2c (counting operation means), and when the number of game medals (game value) displayed on the game medal number display device 7 (game value display means) is "0", an alarm can be prevented from being executed to prompt the operation of the counting button 2c (counting operation means).

[0039] (BGM plays while counting) While the game medals are being counted (while the count button 2c is being operated), background music (for example, the payout sound in a conventional slot machine) can be played. For example, sound generating means such as a speaker is provided in a predetermined location (such as around the medal payout opening), and the sub-controller 20 causes the sound generating means to output a payout sound. This makes it possible to execute effects that mimic those of conventional slot machines. However, since counting can be performed during a game (the count button 2c can be operated), the playback mode of the BGM may be controlled according to the game situation. For example, when "not playing," it is played at normal volume, when "playing," it is played at extremely low volume, when "continuous performance" is in progress, it is played silently, and when "a payout is being made due to a win," the payout sound is prioritized (for example, the volume of the payout sound is made louder than other background music). This allows appropriate BGM playback according to the situation. Also, the background music played during counting may be different depending on whether the button is pressed for a short time or for a long time. For example, when you press it briefly, a "beep beep" background music for short presses will be played, and when you press and hold it (50), a "piroriroro" background music for long presses will be played every "50" (every 300 milliseconds). Also, in the case of a short press, the background music will be very short, but if short presses are performed consecutively, each will be determined as a short press in terms of counting, but the background music playback will be determined as a "long press," and background music for long presses will be played. In addition, when the number of game medals stored and displayed in the game medal count display device 7 is large (for example, 10,000), the background music may not be played during the long press, or when a specific number is counted while the long press is maintained (for example, when the number exceeds 10,000), special background music may be switched to be played. When switching to special background music, a linked performance may be performed by further switching the performance content on the display device 8 or lamps.

[0040] (Counting guidance when inserted medals remain) After counting is completed, if the number of game medals displayed on the game medal count display device 7 is "0", the sub-control unit 20 can display notification information 1 indicating the end of the game, such as "Please play again", on the display 8 or output it as audio from the speaker 9. By notifying the user of the notification information 1 in this manner, the user can be made aware of the completion of counting. When the number of game medals stored / displayed after the counting is completed is "1" or more, the notification information 1 is not notified. In this case, the player must operate the count button 2c to reset the number of game medals to "0." This is because if the gaming medal is even "1", the IC card cannot be returned in the dedicated unit 19. However, with the specifications of this dedicated unit 19, if the number of game medals stored and displayed on the game medal number display device 7 is "0", the IC card can be returned even if the bet number is set (inserted medals remain). This can lead to problems such as a player leaving the machine without realizing that inserted medals are still there, or the medals being stolen by another player. Therefore, in the medalless gaming machine 1 of this embodiment, when the number of game medals displayed on the game medal number display device 7 is "0" after counting is completed and inserted medals (number of bets) remain (when the bet number lamp 2f is lit), notification information (notification information 2) is displayed to prompt the user to perform a settlement operation, such as "You have inserted medals! Please settle your balance!" In other words, the notification means such as the display 8 issues a notification encouraging the operation of the settlement button 2d (specific operation means) when the counting button 2c (counting operation means) is operated and the number of game medals (game value) displayed on the game medal number display device 7 (game value display means) becomes "0" and the number of bets (bet) displayed on the bet number lamp 2f (bet display means) is "1" or more, and on the other hand, when the counting button 2c (counting operation means) is operated and the number of game medals (game value) displayed on the game medal number display device 7 (game value display means) becomes "0" and the number of bets (bet) displayed on the bet number lamp 2f (bet display means) is "0", the notification means does not issue a notification encouraging the operation of the settlement button 2d (specific operation means).

[0041] FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing a method of notifying the player whether or not there is a number of inserted medals after counting is completed. As shown in the figure, the main control unit 10 judges whether or not the count button 2c has been operated (S11). That is, it judges whether or not a counting operation has been performed. If the count button 2c has been pressed (Yes), it is determined whether the number of game medals is "0" (S12). In other words, it is determined whether the counting is completed. Specifically, when it is determined that the count button 2c has been pressed, the main control unit 10 determines whether the number of game medals stored and displayed on the game medal number display device 7 is "0" or not. If the number of game medals is not "0" in S12 (S12-No), the process returns to S11. In other words, if the counting is not complete, the number of game medals must be reset to "0" by performing a counting operation. If the number of game medals is "0" in S12 (S12-Yes), it is determined whether the number of inserted medals is "0" (S13). In other words, if the counting is completed, it is next determined whether or not there are any inserted medals. Specifically, to determine whether or not medals have been inserted, if the number of bets "1," "2," or "3" is stored (set) in the RAM, it is determined that the number of medals inserted is not "0" (no medals have been inserted), and if the number of bets is not stored (set), it is determined that the number of medals inserted is "0" (medals have been inserted). In S13, when the number of inserted medals is "0" (S13-Yes), notification information 1 is notified (S14). That is, when there are no inserted medals remaining after the counting is completed, notification information 1 is notified. For example, notification information such as "Please play again" as shown in FIG. By seeing this notification information, the player can finish playing the game with peace of mind. In S13, when the number of inserted medals is not "0" (S13-No), notification information 2 is notified (S15). That is, when the counting is completed and inserted medals remain, notification information 2 is notified. For example, a message prompting payment, such as "You have inserted medals. Please pay!" as shown in FIG. 9(b), is displayed on the display 8. This makes it possible to inform the player that inserted medals remain and that they need to be redeemed. In this way, if even a "1" game medal is stored / displayed on the game medal count display device 7, the IC card cannot be returned in the dedicated unit 19. However, if the number of game medals stored / displayed on the game medal count display device 7 is "0", the IC card can be returned even if inserted medals remain. This prevents problems such as a player leaving without realizing that inserted medals remain, or theft by other players.

[0042] (Press and hold the count button) The main control unit 10 keeps the counting button 2c pressed and held even after the number of game medals stored and displayed in the game medal count display device 7 becomes "0", and when a payout occurs in the game, it determines that this payout amount is also included in the counting caused by the long press. This is because it is possible to play even while operating the counting button 2c, and since the payout amount generated by playing only the remaining few games is also counted while counting, it is possible to end the game without pressing the counting button 2c again.

[0043] This will be described in detail with reference to the time chart of FIG. It is assumed that the number of game medals stored and displayed in the game medal number display device 7 is "120", and the number of inserted medals (bet number) remaining is "3". In this case, if the counting button 2c is continued to be pressed and held, as shown in the figure, the counted amount "50" will be subtracted from the number of game medals upon detection of the first, second, and third long press, and as a result, the number of game medals will become "0" upon detection of the third long press. However, since the inserted medals remain, the player can continue playing even after the number of game medals reaches "0." In this example, after the number of game medals reaches "0", the remaining inserted medals are used to play the game, and a specific minor prize (a prize that pays out 10 medals) is won in the internal lottery process. Here, in the medal-less gaming machine 1 of this embodiment, if the counting button 2c is kept pressed and held even after the number of game medals becomes "0", the medal-less gaming machine 1 controls the operation to treat the operation as valid. This allows the game medals paid out thereafter to be automatically counted within a maximum range of "50." In other words, at this time, the number of game medals displayed on the game medal count display device 7 is updated from "0" to "10" because "10" is added in response to the winning of a specific minor prize, but since the counting button 2 is still pressed and held, the counted amount is automatically increased to "10" without any further operation, and the counting data indicating the counted amount is transmitted to the dedicated unit 19.

[0044] That is, the medal-less gaming machine 1 of this embodiment includes a processing means capable of executing a predetermined process when the counting button 2c (counting operation means) is operated, and this processing means is capable of executing a first process for outputting a game value of "1" (the smallest unit) of the game medals (game value) displayed on the game medal number display device 7 (game value display means) as count data to a dedicated unit 19 (external) when the counting button 2c (counting operation means) is operated by a short press (first mode), and is capable of executing a first process for outputting a game value of "1" (the smallest unit) of the game medals (game value) displayed on the game medal number display device 7 (game value display means) as count data to a dedicated unit 19 (external) when the counting button 2c (counting operation means) is operated by a long press (second mode), which is a mode in which the operation acceptance time is longer than that in the first mode. A second process can be executed to output a game value of "50" (specific unit) as counting data from the game medal number (game value) displayed on the game medal number display device 7 (game value display means), and if the counting button 2c (counting operation means) remains operated in the second mode even after the game medal number (game value) displayed on the game medal number display device 7 (game value display means) becomes 0, and a game medal (game value) is awarded based on the result of the game, a third process is executed to output the game medal (game value) as counting data to the dedicated unit 19 (external). In this way, by playing the game while pressing and holding the counting button 2c, the player can count all of the game medals, including the game medals acquired after the counting operation has started, even after the game medals have been used up. This increases the comfort when the counting button 2c is pressed and held.

[0045] (Omission of presentation related to counting) After the power is turned on, the game becomes playable and the counting button 2c becomes active. At this time, whether or not the execution of various counting-related effects will be delayed is determined based on the state (start-up state) of each device involved in the effects, and whether the effects are executed or omitted can be controlled depending on the result of this determination. For example, in the above-mentioned "Use of the counting button during performance," we explained a performance that links the counting button 2c and the display 8. In this case, if it is determined that the display 8 has not completed starting up after the power is turned on, the performance will be omitted even if certain conditions are met. Furthermore, whether each device involved in the performance has completed startup can be determined based on whether the time required for startup to be completed has elapsed or not, and in the case of the display device 8, for example, image recognition technology can be used to determine whether a specified screen is displayed or not.

[0046] (Explanation of counting operations) The operation method for counting is displayed on the display 8. For example, when the counting button 2c is pressed briefly, the game medal will be counted by "1", when the counting button 2c is pressed for a long time, the game medal will be counted up to "50", and when the counting button 2c is kept pressed for a long time, the game medal will be counted up to "50" at a time, and an explanation is displayed on the display 8. In particular, when the above-mentioned "play not possible" state occurs, the method of dealing with the situation (method of reducing the number of game medals below the upper limit by operating the counting button 2c) is displayed on the display 8 at the time when the "play not possible" state occurs. Also, the counting method may be explained using not only text but also diagrams and images on a menu screen or the like displayed on the display 8 during non-play. In particular, a notice is displayed indicating that the player should not accumulate more than 15,000 medals (when the number of medals displayed on the medal count display device 7 approaches the upper limit, the player should operate the counting button 2c to decrease the number) and that the upper limit is 16,300. This makes it possible to effectively support medal-less games for players who are not familiar with medal-less gaming machines 1.

[0047] (Other features) As other functions, the following functions may be provided:

[0048] (Direction on the lower panel) If the lower panel is equipped with a liquid crystal display (display 8), it is possible to display images of medals corresponding to the number of balls dispensed so that the dispensed status can be seen. For example, it plays footage that makes it look like real medals are being dispensed, such as a cash box or medals spilling out from below. If the lower panel does not have an LCD display, the sense of balls dispensed may be expressed by using LEDs or the like to show the number of boxes. This makes it possible to achieve effects similar to those of a conventional slot machine.

[0049] (Installation of small door) A small door that is physically smaller than the front door 1a is provided, and when the small door is opened, only the connectors around the main board and the area around the power button are exposed, allowing these to be checked locally. Conventional slot machines are equipped with devices necessary for coin processing, such as selectors and hoppers, and in order to check these devices it is necessary to open a large door called the front door 1a. In contrast, the medalless gaming machine 1 of the present invention does not use actual medals, and therefore has fewer hardware components such as selectors and hoppers, and therefore the checking range is limited, so it is sufficient to provide a small door in the checking range. This allows the configuration of the medal-less gaming machine 1 to be simplified and made smaller, and also makes it easier for store clerks to check.

[0050] (Response to error balls) It is possible to provide a reset function in case the number of bets (for example, 1 or 2) is left set (remaining). Specifically, the number of game medals stored in the game medal count display device 7 can be reset (to "0") by a store clerk operating the game medal count clear button 14, but even if it is reset when the bet number has been set, the bet number will remain. For this reason, in the medalless gaming machine 1 of the present invention, when the game medal number clear button 14 is operated while there is a remaining number of bets, the number of bets is reset and reset information including the remaining number of bets is output to the dedicated unit 19. If the dedicated unit 19 is configured to transfer the input reset information to a hall computer (not shown), the hall computer will be able to detect the number of remaining bets included in the reset information as error balls (error medal number). If the machine is not equipped with such a remaining bet number reset function, it will be necessary to clear the RAM that stores the bet number and operate the game medal number clear button 14, and when the bet number has been set, it will be necessary to go through the procedure of "operating the settlement button 2d" → "operating the counting button 2c." The medal-less gaming machine 1 of the present invention is provided with a remaining bet number reset function, which eliminates the need for such cumbersome operations and allows the hall computer to efficiently and accurately grasp the number of erroneous balls.

[0051] (Premiere performance) When certain conditions are met, such as when the number of game medals stored and displayed in the game medal number display device 7 or the number of payouts within one advantageous zone reaches a specific number, a premium effect can be produced in the display 8, etc., in which a hopper error has occurred, which is reported in conventional game machines (slot machines that use actual medals). The medal-less gaming machine 1 does not use actual medals, and therefore hopper errors are not possible. For this reason, there is a high possibility that the player will immediately realize that the hopper error display is some kind of effect (premium effect), making it possible to create an unexpected effect. The premiere effect may be a freeze effect of about 5 seconds. In other words, the notification means is capable of issuing notifications such as hopper errors and other effects related to real medals (gaming media) that were previously implemented in conventional slot machines (gaming machines) that allow play using real medals (gaming media) when certain conditions are met.

[0052] (Notification using wait time) Notification can be made using the wait time. In slot machine play, even if the start lever 3 is operated, if the time that has elapsed since the start of rotation of the reel 41 in the previous game has not yet reached the specified time (4.1 seconds), the start of rotation of the reel 41 is temporarily put on hold (a wait time is generated) to delay the start of rotation of the reel. In slot machine games using actual medals, a medal must be inserted at some point, and since it takes time to insert the medal, there is no wait time, making it difficult to play at full wait time. In contrast, in medal-less games, inserting a game medal requires only operating a bet button, so no time is required for insertion, and therefore there is often a wait time, making it easy to play with a full wait. However, even in medal-less gaming, the lending operation at the dedicated unit 19 is necessary, so in the medal-less gaming machine 1 of this embodiment, the sub-control unit 20 controls the display on the display 8 during the wait time (player's side). This makes it easier to play at full weight. Also, the notification may be made when the number of game medals stored and displayed on the game medal number display device 7 becomes "0", or when the number of game medals becomes 1 or 2.

[0053] (Bonus announcement using counting buttons) A bonus win can be announced in response to operation of the counting button 2c. 2. Description of the Related Art Among type A slot machines that allow real bonus games, there are known models that are provided with notification lamps for notifying players that they have won a bonus. It is known that this type of notification lamp is controlled so that it does not light up and goes into standby mode if any of the game operation buttons (bet button 2a, MAX bet button 2b, stop button 5, start lever 3) are operated at the end of a bonus winning game. In the medal-less gaming machine 1 of the present invention, such bonus notification control can be performed. In this case, the game operation buttons may or may not include the count button 2c. When the game operation buttons include a counting button 2c, as shown in FIG. 11(a), if the counting button 2c is pressed beyond the end of the bonus game (when the third stop button is released), the bonus announcement is put on hold while the button is pressed, and is executed when the button is released (when the player's finger is released from the counting button 2c). As shown in FIG. 11(b), when certain conditions are met, such as when the number of game medals stored and displayed in the game medal count display device 7 is equal to or greater than a predetermined number (for example, 5,000 or more) and a specific lottery is won, a notification lamp may light up when the bonus winning game ends, even if the counting button 2c is being operated, and this may be presented as a premium pattern. This allows for unprecedented performances to be achieved.

[0054] (Notification to encourage lending operations) The notification means can perform a predetermined notification when the number of game medals displayed on the game medal number display device 7 reaches a predetermined number. For example, when the number of game medals on the game medal number display device 7 becomes "1" or "2", a message such as "Please lend" is displayed on the display 8. In other words, the notification means is capable of issuing a notification to prompt a lending operation (an operation for inputting the game value available for play from the outside as lending data) in the dedicated unit 19 when the number of game medals (game value) displayed on the game medal number display device 7 (game value display means) reaches a specific amount. This makes it possible to prevent a problem in which a game cannot be played due to an insufficient number of game medals and game play is interrupted.

[0055] As described above, the gaming machine of the present invention is a medal-less gaming machine 1 that allows playing without using actual medals, and is configured to issue a notification to encourage a counting operation when the number of gaming medals displayed on the gaming medal count display device 7 is below an upper limit value and equal to or greater than a predetermined number. For example, an LED or other light emitting means can be provided on or around the counting button 2c, and can be controlled to light up when counting is possible, turn off when counting is not possible, and flash when inducing counting (when the number of game medals is 16,000 or more). This makes it possible to guide the player on the appropriate operation before the game becomes "unplayable." Furthermore, when the gaming machine of the present invention performs an operation to count the number of gaming medals displayed on the gaming medal number display device 7, if the number of gaming medals becomes "0" and there are remaining inserted medals (bet amount), it issues a notification urging the player to settle or use the inserted medals, but if the number of gaming medals is not "0", it does not issue the above notification. This prevents the card return operation from being performed in the dedicated unit 19 if there is a game medal remaining on the game medal number display device 7 even if it shows "1", but prevents forgetting to remove the bet amount even if the specification allows the card return operation to be performed if the game medal number display device 7 shows 0 game medals even if game medals have been bet.

[0056] Furthermore, when the gaming machine of the present invention performs an operation to count the number of gaming medals displayed on the gaming medal count display device 7, a long press of the counting button 2c executes control to continue counting by "50". By controlling the counting button 2c to continue being pressed and held even after the number of gaming medals on the gaming medal count display device 7 becomes 0, if a game is played while the long press state continues and a payout occurs in that game, this payout amount can also be processed as a target for counting by the long press. This increases the comfort when pressing and holding the counting button 2c.

[0057] On the other hand, as a conventional gaming machine, a patent document (JP 2015-134010 A) discloses a slot machine that can be played without using medals. However, in such conventional gaming machines, there is a problem in that the processing of the gaming value stored as data in the gaming machine is not sufficiently considered. According to the gaming machine of this embodiment, it is possible to solve all or part of the above-mentioned problems that need to be improved in conventional gaming machines.

[0058] Second embodiment Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described. In the following explanations and drawings, parts that perform similar functions in each embodiment and other embodiments will be given similar names as appropriate, and the same reference numerals or the same reference numerals at the end (last two digits) will be given as appropriate, and duplicate explanations will be omitted as appropriate.

[0059] (Configuration of gaming machine 201) FIG. 12 is a block diagram showing the control configuration of a gaming machine 201 according to the second embodiment. The gaming machine 201 of this embodiment, like the first embodiment, is capable of playing games without using actual gaming media and is a device capable of managing game values ​​that can be used in games. That is, the gaming machine 201 executes games using pseudo medals (so-called credit medals) stored as medals in the medal count storage unit 212a. The configuration of the sub-control board 220A including the sub-control unit 20 and the like is the same as that of the first embodiment. The sub-control board 220A is capable of controlling, for example, presentations and the like relating to games.

[0060] Meanwhile, the main control board 210A includes a first module 211 that mainly executes processing and control related to games, and a second module 212 that mainly executes processing and control related to the number of medals. In other words, in the main control board of the first embodiment, one module having the main control unit 10 comprehensively executes processing and control related to games and the number of medals, whereas in the main control board 210A of this embodiment, the two modules, the main control unit 211b and the medal number control unit 212b, share and execute these processing and control according to the contents. The first module 211 and the second module 212 may be configured by the same electric board, or may be configured by separating the main control board 210A into two electric boards. In this manner, in a configuration in which main control board 210A is separated into two electric boards, both boards can be connected with an electric cable to enable communication. In this configuration, the case for housing main control board 210A may be a case for housing the two electric boards together, or two cases for housing the two electric boards separately may be provided.

[0061] Communication is possible between the first module 211 and the bet button 2a, the MAX bet button 2b, the settlement button 2d, the start lever 3, the stop button 5, the drum unit 4, the advantageous zone lamp 13, etc., as necessary. The first module 211 includes a main memory unit 211a and a main control unit 211b (game control means). The main memory unit 211a stores information such as tables used in various lottery processes and various programs related to games. The main control unit 211b executes processing and control related to the game (various lottery processing, control of the game state, etc.).

[0062] The second module 212 can communicate with the count button 2c, the game medal number clear button 14, the game medal number display device 7, the power supply device 15, etc., as necessary. The second module 212 and the dedicated unit 19 (inter-machine device) etc. are connected to each other so as to be able to communicate with each other via a connection terminal board 19a provided in the gaming machine 201. In addition, the first module 211 and the second module 212 can communicate with each other as necessary. The second module 212 includes a medal count storage unit 212a, a medal count control unit 212b (game value control means, counting means, first output means, second output means), and the like. The medal count storage unit 212a stores various information (the difference in medal count for the day, MY, programs, etc.) for processing and controlling the medal count. The medal count control unit 212b executes control, processing, etc. relating to the medal count.

[0063] (Medal counting process) FIG. 13 is a graph showing a schematic diagram of the change in the difference in number of coins on the day of playing of the gaming machine 201 of the second embodiment. The medal count control unit 212b counts the difference in number of medals from the start of play on that day, MY, as medal count processing. The medal count control unit 212b resets the difference in number of medals, MY, to zero when the power of the gaming machine 201 is turned on from an off state. Although a detailed explanation will be omitted, the medal count control unit 212b executes medal count processing (counting the number of medals inserted and the number of medals paid out) similar to conventional methods. The medal count control unit 212b transmits these count information (information on the counting results of the counting means) as game performance information to the main control unit 211b and the dedicated unit 19 at each predetermined timing.

[0064] Thereafter, the count information may be transmitted from the dedicated unit 19 via a hall computer or the like to an institution (such as a gaming machine information center) that comprehensively manages a plurality of gaming machines. Furthermore, the main control unit 211b may transmit the medal count information received from the medal count control unit 212b to the sub-control unit 20 at least at regular intervals.

[0065] In the embodiment, the term "MY" means the difference in the number of medals. (Difference in number of sheets) The difference in number of coins (Y coins) is the net difference in number of coins. In other words, "difference in number of coins (Y coins) = total number of coins paid out - total number of coins inserted." Therefore, if the "total number of coins paid out < total number of coins inserted," the difference in number of coins will be negative, but if the "total number of coins paid out > total number of coins inserted," the difference in number of coins will be positive.

[0066] (MY) MY indicates the difference between the difference in number of coins (Y coins) at the time of playing on the day of playing and the minimum difference in number of coins (Ymin). The minimum difference in number of coins is the numerical value at the time of playing when the player's consumption of gaming value is the largest after the power is turned on. MY also indicates how much gaming value the player has acquired since the minimum difference in number of coins was updated. In other words, "MY = |Y-Ymin|." Note that MY is updated only when "Ymin ≦ Y."

[0067] 13, the difference Y decreases after the start of a game. Then, the difference Y becomes -5000 at the time of the number of games played X1. The medal count control unit 212b stores -5000 as Ymin in the medal count storage unit 212a (#1). After the number of games X1, at the time of the number of games X5, the difference Y is −10000, which is a numerical value smaller than −5000. The medal count control unit 212b stores −10000 as Ymin in the medal count storage unit 212a, that is, updates Ymin (#2).

[0068] In the above example, MY from the start of play on that day to the number of plays X1 is zero. In addition, from the number of games played X1 to the number of games played X2, MY is counted based on the difference in number of games played X1 minus 5000. For example, MY at the time of the number of games played X2 (X=X2, Y=2000) is 7000 (=|2000-(-5000)|). From the number of games played X5 onwards, the minimum difference in number of coins Ymin is updated from -5000 to -10000. For example, MY at the time of the number of games played X6 (X=X6, Y=2000) is 12000 (=|2000-(-10000)|). Thus, even though the difference in number of coins is the same 2000 for MY of the number of games played X2 and X6, the numerical value is different because the standard minimum difference in number of coins Ymin is different. In this way, the MY count starts from the minimum difference in number of coins on that day, so when the minimum difference in number of coins is updated at a certain point in time, that minimum difference in number of coins becomes the new starting point.

[0069] (Processing when MY upper limit is reached) The medal count control unit 212b transmits MY upper limit reaching information (specific information) to the main control unit 211b when the condition that MY according to the medal count process has reached the upper limit of 19,000 medals is met. The upper limit of MY can be changed as appropriate according to the specifications of the model, etc. Also, the condition for transmitting the MY upper limit reaching information (specific information) may be that MY has exceeded 19,000 medals, etc. In addition, in a game in which MY exceeds 19,000 medals, the medal count control unit 212b also counts the difference in medal count by the amount by which MY exceeds 19,000 medals. For example, if MY is 18999 before betting, and MY is 18996 when 3 coins are bet at the start of the game, and a 15-coin winning combination is achieved, MY becomes 19011. In this case, the medal count control unit 212b counts the 11 coins that exceed 19000 as the difference (i.e., the medals won by the player).

[0070] 13, at the end of the game of the number of games X8, MY is 19000. Therefore, the medal count control unit 212b transmits game end information to the main control unit 211b at the end of the game of the number of games X8 (#3). The main control unit 211b constantly monitors whether or not there is an input of MY upper limit reaching information. The CPU constituting the main control unit 211b may have an input terminal to which the MY upper limit reaching information is input, or may receive the MY upper limit reaching information through normal communication processing. In addition, since MY increases or decreases only after the medal payout process is completed, the main control unit 211b may perform monitoring of the MY upper limit reaching information (processing to determine whether or not specific information has been received) only after the medal payout process is completed. In response to receiving the MY upper limit reaching information from the medal count control unit 212b, the main control unit 211b transmits an operation stop command (issuance of a command to stop operation) to the medal count control unit 212b.

[0071] In response to receiving the operation stop command from the main control unit 211b, the medal count control unit 212b notifies the dedicated unit 19 that the operation stop command has been received. After receiving the operation stop command, the medal count control unit 212b may stop medal counting processing. In addition, after this notification, the dedicated unit 19 may stop lending new medals.

[0072] In response to receiving the operation stop command, the medal count control unit 212b notifies the main control unit 211b in the same manner as when the dedicated unit is not connected. In response to this, the main control unit 211b controls the game to a game end state (specific state) in which the operation of inserting medals using the bet buttons 2a and 2b and the operation of levers such as the start lever 3 are not accepted. In other words, the main control unit 211b controls the game to a state in which the control (specific control) that accepts the operation of inserting medals and the operation of the start lever 3 is not executable.

[0073] However, the medal count control unit 212b accepts the operation of the count button 2c (count operation means) even after transmitting the MY upper limit reaching information. This allows the player to count the medals he / she has won, output the count to the dedicated unit 19, and store the count in the IC card for payment. The main control unit 211b may also accept the operation of the settlement button 2d. In addition, the gaming machine 201 and the dedicated unit 19 may automatically perform such counting and payout processing when MY reaches 19,000 or more.

[0074] As a result of the above process, when MY reaches 19,000 or more after the gaming machine 201 is powered on, the gaming machine 201 enters a state in which it does not accept any operations related to the game, and the player cannot continue playing. Regardless of whether the game has ended or not, the medal count control unit 212b resets MY to zero when the gaming machine 201 is powered off and then powered on again. Furthermore, the main control unit 211b cancels the game end state by accepting an operation to change (including replay) the setting values ​​1 to 6. This causes the gaming machine 201 to be controlled to a state in which play is possible again.

[0075] Control other than the above when MY reaches 19,000 coins can be set appropriately according to the specifications of the gaming machine 201, etc. For example, when MY reaches 19,000, the gaming machine 201 may perform the following control. (1) Even when the main control unit 211b receives MY upper limit reaching information from the medal count control unit 212b, if a predetermined condition is satisfied, the main control unit 211b may execute control not to enter the game end state. The predetermined condition is, for example, when MY reaches 19000 coins in a game during a bonus. In this case, even if the main control unit 211b receives the MY upper limit reaching information, the main control unit 211b may wait to activate the game end state until the bonus ends. In addition, the main control unit 211b may wait to issue an instruction to stop operation to the medal count control unit 212b until the bonus ends. This allows the gaming machine 201 to continue playing until the bonus ends, and also allows the player to count the medals awarded to the player during the bonus (the difference in the number of medals that exceeds 19,000 during the bonus).

[0076] (2) In a game in a state where the number of coins has exceeded the number immediately preceding MY19,000 (a predetermined number such as 18,950 coins) (i.e., immediately before the transmission of MY upper limit reaching information), for example, in a state where there is a possibility of winning a bonus or additional prize by executing various lottery processes in response to winning a strong bell role or rare role, and MY reaches 19,000 coins by awarding a winning medal, the sub-control unit 20 may not perform a winning effect (specific effect) corresponding to the rare role, etc. In other words, the sub-control unit 20 may perform a winning effect of a rare role, etc., until the number immediately preceding MY19,000 coins is reached, but may not perform the effect after the number immediately preceding MY19,000 coins is reached. As a result, even if the lottery process is executed during a game in which MY reaches 19,000 coins and the game ends, the gaming machine 201 can be controlled so as not to make the player aware of the lottery process.

[0077] (3) MY does not increase or decrease even if a replay role is won. Therefore, in the same manner as in (2) above, when a replay role is won in a game in which the number of MY is immediately before 19,000, the sub-control unit 20 may notify the player that the game is nearing the end by changing the presentation of the replay role (winning sound, etc.). In addition, the fact that the game end state is nearing may be notified not only when a replay role is won, but also when another winning role is won.

[0078] (4) The main control unit 211b may notify the sub-control unit 20 of an operation stop command. In this case, the sub-control unit 20 may notify the player that the game has ended by displaying the end of the game on the display 8. Here, if the gaming machine 201 has a function of accepting an operation at the start of a game by the player and an operation at the end of a game, and converting the game history of the player into a two-dimensional code or the like in response to the player's end operation and displaying it on the display 8 (main screen, sub screen, etc.), the sub-control unit 20 may accept this operation at the end of a game even after the notification of an operation stop command. However, since the gaming machine 201 is in a state in which it cannot continue playing after the notification of an operation stop command, the sub-control unit 20 may not accept this operation at the start of a game.

[0079] As described above, the gaming machine 201 of this embodiment can efficiently operate each CPU constituting the control unit by dividing the control and processing of the main control board 210A between the main control unit 211b of the first module 211 and the medal count control unit 212b of the second module 212. Also, the gaming machine 201 can effectively use the counting result of MY for multiple processes.

[0080] Third embodiment Next, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described. In the following explanations and drawings, parts that perform similar functions in each embodiment and other embodiments will be given similar names as appropriate, and the same reference numerals or the same reference numerals at the end (last two digits) will be given as appropriate, and duplicate explanations will be omitted as appropriate.

[0081] (Configuration of gaming machine 301) FIG. 14 is a block diagram showing the control configuration of a gaming machine 301 in the third embodiment. The gaming machine 301 of this embodiment is capable of playing games without using actual gaming media, as in the first embodiment, and is a device capable of managing game values ​​that can be used in games. In other words, the gaming machine 301 executes games using pseudo medals (so-called credit medals) stored in the medal count storage unit 312a as game medals. The configuration of the sub-control board 320 including the sub-control unit 20 and the like is the same as that of the first embodiment. The sub-control board 320 is capable of controlling, for example, presentations and the like relating to games.

[0082] On the other hand, the control configuration of the gaming machine 301 of the third embodiment is provided with a main control board 310 that mainly executes processing and control related to games, and a medal count control board 312 that mainly executes processing and control related to the number of game medals. In other words, the main control board of the first embodiment is a single module having the main control unit 10 that comprehensively executes processing and control related to games and the number of medals, whereas in the third embodiment, the main control board 310 and medal count control board 312 are provided separately, and the two control boards share and execute these processes and controls according to their contents. In this manner, in the case where the main control board 310 and the medal count control board 312 are separated, a case for storing the main control board 310 and the medal count control board 312 separately is provided, and both boards are detachably connected with an electric cable having a connector to enable communication. Therefore, the configuration is such that only one of the main control board 310 and the medal count control board 312 is replaceable.

[0083] Communication is possible as necessary between the main control board 310 (main control unit 310b) and the bet button 2a, MAX bet button 2b, settlement button 2d, start lever 3, stop button 5, drum unit 4, advantageous zone lamp 13, etc. In addition, a power supply device 15 is connected to the main control board 310, and the power supply device 15 supplies power to each control board. The main control board 310 (game control means) includes a main memory unit 310a and a main control unit 310b. Since the main control unit 310b performs various controls, it can also be considered that the main control unit 310b includes the game control means. The main memory unit 310a stores information such as tables used in various lottery processes and various programs related to games. The main control unit 310b executes processing and control related to the game (various lottery processing, control of the game state, etc.). For example, control information capable of identifying the number of bets set for the game by executing the game is transmitted to the medal count control board 312, and when a winning combination is achieved, control information capable of identifying the number of medals paid out is transmitted to the medal count control board 312.

[0084] Communication is possible between the medal count control board 312 (medal count control unit 312b) and the counting button 2c, the game medal count clear button 14, the game medal count display device 7, and the role ratio monitor device 50 as necessary. The medal count control board 312 and the dedicated unit 19 (inter-machine device) and the like are communicatively connected via a connection terminal board 19a provided in the gaming machine 301. In addition, communication is possible between the main control board 310 and the medal count control board 312 as necessary. The medal count control board 312 (game value control means) has a medal count storage unit 312a, a medal count control unit 312b, etc. Since the medal count control unit 312b performs various controls, the medal count control unit 312b can also be considered to have a game value control means. The medal count storage unit 312a stores various information (such as a program corresponding to an AT machine, a program corresponding to a normal machine, etc.) for performing processing and control related to the medal count. The medal count control unit 312b executes control, processing, etc. related to the medal count. For example, when control information capable of identifying the number of bets based on the execution of a game is received from the main control board 310 (main control unit 310b), the number of game medals stored and displayed in the game medal count display device 7 is updated (subtracted) by an amount corresponding to the number of bets, and when control information capable of identifying the number of medals paid out based on the winning combination is received from the main control board 310 (main control unit 310b), the number of game medals stored and displayed in the game medal count display device 7 is updated (added) by an amount corresponding to the number of medals paid out. In addition, since this third embodiment is configured so as not to use actual medals (gaming media), the above-mentioned "payout" does not actually result in actual medals being paid out, but rather an increase in the number of gaming medals held by the player (granting gaming value), however, the present invention may also be applied to a configuration in which actual medals are paid out.

[0085] In this way, in this third embodiment, the main control board 310 and the medal count control board 312 are provided separately, and the medal count control board 312 performs processing related to the payout of game medals based on control information from the main control board 310. Therefore, even if the main control board 310 is changed due to a model change, etc., the medal count control board 312 can be used in common. That is, the gaming machine 301 is equipped with a game control means (main control board 310) capable of executing control related to games, and a game value control means (number of medals control board 312) capable of executing control related to game value, separately.

[0086] Furthermore, when changing the model of gaming machine 301, the main control board 310 will be changed; for example, when changing from a so-called AT machine in which push order navigation is executed to a so-called normal machine in which push order navigation is not executed, the main control board 310 will be changed; however, the medal count control board 312 has a program capable of controlling corresponding to a plurality of such main control boards 310, and control related to the payout of gaming medals will be possible regardless of whether the main control board 310 of an AT machine or the main control board 310 of a normal machine is connected. In other words, the medal count control board 312, which serves as a gaming value control means, is provided with first control information (a program corresponding to an AT machine) for controlling one type of gaming machine (e.g., an AT machine) and second control information (a program corresponding to a normal machine) for controlling another type of gaming machine (e.g., a normal machine), and is capable of executing specific control regarding the awarding of gaming value (gaming medals) using either the first control information or the second control information based on receiving specified information from the gaming control means (main control board 310). As a result, even if the main control board 310 is changed, the medal count control board 312 can be commonly used, so that control related to the payout of game medals can be reliably performed. Furthermore, by sharing the medal count control board 312, the development costs of the gaming machine 301 can be reduced. The specific control will now be described in detail.

[0087] (Ratio monitoring device) First, the winning ratio monitor device 50 will be described. In this third embodiment, the medal count control board 312 is equipped with a role ratio monitor device 50, and based on receiving control information from the main control board 310, the medal count control board 312 generates and displays role ratio monitor information related to the payout of game medals, etc. The role ratio monitor device 50 is a device capable of displaying a four-digit number by using four seven-segment LEDs (with DP), and is arranged on the board of the medal count control board 312 so that the role ratio monitor information can be seen from the outside through the clear case. As the role ratio monitor information, the cumulative advantageous zone ratio, the cumulative instructed role ratio, the continuous role ratio for the latest specified period (e.g., for 6000 games), the role ratio for the latest specified period (e.g., for 6000 games), the cumulative role ratio, and the cumulative role etc. state ratio are displayed by switching them every specified period (e.g., 4800 ms).

[0088] The "role" in the role ratio refers to the first type special role (so-called RB), the second type special role (so-called CB), and the normal role (so-called SB), and the "role ratio" is the ratio calculated by the payout during the role operation ÷ total payout × 100. The "continuous feature" in the continuous feature ratio refers to the first type special feature (so-called RB), and the "continuous feature ratio" is the ratio calculated by the payout during the operation of the first type special feature divided by the total payout x 100. The "function with instruction" in the ratio of functions with instruction includes the payout in a game (e.g., AT) in which the "function" has an instruction function (push order navigation) activated, and the "function with instruction ratio" is a ratio calculated by (payout when the instruction function is activated, payout when the function is activated) ÷ total payout × 100.

[0089] The identification segment of the top two digits of the four-digit number displayed by the four seven-segment LEDs in the winning ratio monitor device 50 is for identifying the information to be displayed, and displays "7U.", "7P.", "6Y.", "7Y.", "6A.", "7A.", and "5H." For example, when "7U." is displayed in the identification segment, it indicates the cumulative favorable zone ratio, and when "7P." is displayed in the identification segment, it indicates the cumulative favorable zone ratio of the cumulative instruction-included winning ratio.

[0090] Of the four-digit numbers displayed by the four seven-segment LEDs in the role ratio monitor device 50, the lowest two ratio segments are used to display the calculation results of various ratios, and are displayed as two-digit numbers using two seven-segment LEDs. In addition, in order to check whether the role ratio monitor device 50 can operate normally, a test pattern is displayed in the identification segment and the ratio segment for a predetermined period (for example, 4800 ms) after the power is turned on. For example, all four 7-segment LEDs constituting the role ratio monitor device 50 are displayed in a blinking manner.

[0091] In this way, in this third embodiment, the main control board 310 and the medal count control board 312 are provided separately, and based on the control information from the main control board 310, the commonly used medal count control board 312 generates and displays role ratio monitor information on the role ratio monitor device 50. Therefore, even if the main control board 310 is changed due to a model change, etc., the role ratio monitor information can be displayed on the commonly used medal number control board 312. In addition, since the medal count control board 312 can be used in common, there is no need to design a role ratio monitor device 50 for each main control board 310.

[0092] (Transmission and reception of model identification information) In this third embodiment, for example, the medal count control board 312 generates and displays role ratio monitor information on the role ratio monitor device 50 based on control information from the main control board 310, so that when the main control board 310 is changed, the medal count control board 312 needs to grasp the identification information of the model controlled by the changed main control board 310. Therefore, in this third embodiment, when the gaming machine 301 is powered on, the main control board 310 transmits model identification information capable of identifying the model to the medal count control board 312, and the medal count control board 312 generates and displays information corresponding to the model controlled by the main control board 310 based on the received model identification information. The machine type identification information is information that can identify, for example, a normal machine (so-called A type) that does not have a push order navigation function and does not control the play area, an AT machine that has a push order navigation function and controls the play area, a machine with a bonus, etc. The machine type identification information may be any information that can identify the characteristic functions of each machine type in play and the functions required by the standard.

[0093] FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing the model identification information transmission process executed when the main control board 310 (main control unit 310b) is powered on. First, when the model identification information transmission process is executed, it is determined whether the power is turned on (S20). That is, it is determined whether the gaming machine 301 is turned on. If the power is not turned on (No), this model identification information transmission process ends. If the power is turned on in S20 (S20-Yes), the model identification information is transmitted (S21) and the model identification information transmission process is terminated. In other words, when the power is turned on to the gaming machine 301, information capable of identifying the model controlled by the main control board 310 at that time is transmitted from the main control board 310 (main control unit 310b) to the medal count control board 312 (medal count control unit 312b). The timing of transmitting the model identification information may be any time between when the power is turned on and when processing related to playing the game is started.

[0094] Next, FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing the model identification information reception process executed when the medal count control board 312 (medal count control unit 312b) is powered on. First, when the model identification information receiving process is executed, it is determined whether the power is turned on (S22). That is, it is determined whether the gaming machine 301 is turned on. If the power is not turned on (No), this model identification information reception process ends. If the power is turned on in S22 (S22-Yes), the model identification information is received (S23). That is, when the gaming machine 301 is turned on, the model identification information transmitted from the main control board 310 (main control unit 310b) is received. Note that it may be possible to determine whether or not model identification information has been received, and to perform this process (S23) if it has been received.

[0095] Next, it is determined whether the received model identification information (received information) is the same as the already stored model identification information (stored information) (S24). In other words, it is determined whether the model identification information transmitted and stored the previous time the gaming machine 301 was powered on is the same as the model identification information transmitted this time. If the received information and the stored information are identical (Yes), this model identification information receiving process ends. If the received information and the stored information are not the same in S24 (S24-No), the role ratio monitor information is initialized (S25) and the model identification information reception process is terminated. In other words, if the model identification information received when the gaming machine 301 is turned on is different from the previous model identification information, this means that the main control board 310 has been replaced, and the role ratio monitor information that has already been generated and stored is no longer necessary, so it is initialized. Note that the model identification information received at this time is newly stored in RAM as the model identification information from this time onwards.

[0096] In this way, in this third embodiment, when the gaming machine 301 is powered on, model identification information capable of identifying the model being controlled by the main control board 310 at that time is transmitted from the main control board 310 to the medal count control board 312, and role ratio monitor information corresponding to the model of the gaming machine 301 is generated and displayed. For example, in the case of an AT machine, it is necessary to generate and display the cumulative advantageous zone ratio ("7U.") and the cumulative instruction-included role ratio ("7P."), but in the case of a normal machine, the process of generating and displaying these can be omitted. Note that a hyphen should always be displayed in the corresponding ratio segment. In other words, the medal count control board 312 (medal count memory unit 312a) is provided with, for example, first control information (program) that controls the role ratio monitor device 50 in response to an AT machine, and second control information (program) that controls the role ratio monitor device 50 in response to a normal machine, and based on receiving specified information (for example, model identification information) from the game control means (main control board 310), it is possible to execute specific control (control to display role ratio monitor information) regarding the awarding of game value (game medals) using either the first control information or the second control information. Therefore, even if the main control board 310 is changed due to a model change or the like, the role ratio monitor information can be displayed on the commonly used medal number control board 312.

[0097] Furthermore, since the medal count control board 312 determines whether the model identification information it receives is the same as the previous model identification information based on the information it receives, the medal count control board 312 can perform control corresponding to the changed model even if the model of the gaming machine 301 is changed due to replacement of the main control board 310 and the gaming features, etc. are changed. Furthermore, if the received model identification information is different from the previous model identification information, the already generated and stored role ratio monitor information is initialized, so that new role ratio monitor information can be reliably generated when the model is changed.

[0098] (Processing related to withdrawal) In this third embodiment, the main control board 310 and the medal count control board 312 are provided separately, and the medal count control board 312 performs control related to payout based on control information from the main control board 310. Therefore, even if the main control board 310 is changed, the medal count control board 312 that is used in common must generate role ratio monitor information related to payout in accordance with the change in the main control board 310. Therefore, when game medals are paid out, information that can identify whether the payout is a payout due to a device (payout during a bonus), a payout when a push-order bell role, which is an instruction function, is achieved (payout during AT), or a normal payout (payout during AT) is transmitted from the main control board 310 to the medal count control board 312, and the medal count control board 312 generates and displays information reflecting the payout attributes based on the received payout attribute information.

[0099] FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing a payout information transmission process executed by the main control board 310 (main control unit 310b) when a payout is made in response to a winning combination. First, when the payout information transmission process is executed, it is determined whether or not there is a payout (S30). That is, it is determined whether or not there is a payout of medals associated with the winning combination. If there is no payout (No), this payout information transmission process is terminated. When a payout has been made in S30 (S30-Yes), payout number information is transmitted (S31). That is, when a payout of game medals has occurred, payout number information capable of specifying the number of game medals to be paid out is transmitted to the medal number control board 312.

[0100] Next, the payout attribute information is transmitted (S32) and the payout information transmission process is terminated. That is, when a payout occurs, the payout attribute information that can identify the attribute of the current payout is transmitted to the medal count control board 312. For example, when eight gaming medals are paid out as a result of a winning bell role, information that can identify whether or not the payout is a payout that accompanies the operation of the instruction function (push order navigation) is transmitted as payout attribute information. In addition to the payout number information and the payout attribute information, information indicating that a payout has occurred may be transmitted. Also, the information that can be identified by the payout attribute information may be other than the above. For example, when a game medal is paid out by winning the push order bell role that is the target of the instruction function, information that can be identified as to whether the winning was won by the operation of the instruction function or by chance without the operation of the instruction function may be transmitted.

[0101] Next, FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing a payout process executed at the time of payout by the medal count control board 312 (medal count control unit 312b). First, when the payout process is executed, it is determined whether or not payout number information has been received (S33). That is, it is determined whether or not payout number information transmitted from the main control board 310 has been received. At this time, it may be determined whether or not information indicating that a payout has occurred has been received. If the payout amount information has not been received (No), this payout process ends. If payout number information is received in S33 (S33-Yes), a process is performed to store the payout number for each payout attribute (S34). In other words, when payout number information is received from the main control board 310, payout attribute information is also received along with the payout number information, so the payout number for each payout attribute is stored in the RAM. For example, if eight game medals are paid out due to the winning of the bell role, if the payout is a payout that involves the operation of the instruction function (push order navigation), it is counted and stored as the number of payouts that involve the operation of the instruction function, and the cumulative instruction-included role ratio is calculated, and if the payout is a payout that does not involve the operation of the instruction function (push order navigation), it is counted and stored as the number of payouts that do not involve the operation of the instruction function, and the cumulative instruction-included role ratio is not calculated. Also, if the payout is a payout due to a role, it is counted and stored as the number of payouts due to the role, and the ratio of each role is calculated.

[0102] Next, a payout display process for each machine type identification information is executed (S35), and the payout process is terminated. In this third embodiment, when game medals are paid out, the number of game medals is updated (added) and displayed on the game medal count display device 7, which serves as a display means capable of displaying information regarding game value, and the updated display at this time is made in a manner corresponding to the model identification information received when the power is turned on. In other words, when updating (adding) the number of game medals displayed, the update mode of the game medal number display device 7 is changed when model identification information (first specific information) corresponding to an AT machine is received and when model identification information (second specific information) corresponding to a normal machine is received.

[0103] For example, as shown in FIG. 19(a), when the medal count control board 312 receives model identification information corresponding to an AT machine and eight game medals are paid out, the medal count display device 7 updates and displays the medal count from "300" to "308" in one go (without displaying the value in the middle of the addition) as the first display mode. On the other hand, as shown in Figure 19 (b), when the medal count control board 312 receives model identification information corresponding to a normal machine and eight game medals are paid out, the medal count control board 312 updates and displays the number of game medals on the game medal count display device 7 in the second display mode, such as "300" -> "301" ... "308", so that the number of game medals increases by one at a predetermined time interval (for example, 0.5 seconds).

[0104] In other words, the medal count control board 312 is configured in advance to be able to execute multiple types of update modes for the number of game medals in the game medal count display device 7, and changes the update mode of the game medal count display device 7 in accordance with the model identification information from the main control board 310 as specific control. In other words, the medal count control board 312 as a gaming value control means is equipped with first control information (a program corresponding to an AT machine) for controlling one type of gaming machine and second control information (a program corresponding to a normal machine) for controlling the other type of gaming machine, and when it receives first specific information (model identification information corresponding to an AT machine) from the gaming control means (main control board 310), it is capable of controlling the display mode of the display means (gaming medal count display device 7) when granting gaming value (gaming medals) to a player to a first display mode (the mode shown in Figure 19(a)) using the first control information, and when it receives second specific information (model identification information corresponding to a normal machine) from the gaming control means, it is capable of controlling the display mode of the display means when granting gaming value to a player to a second display mode (the mode shown in Figure 19(b)) using the second control information.

[0105] The update mode according to the model identification information may be other than the above, and may be any mode that changes according to the model identification information. In addition, when there are three or more types of model identification information, a different update mode may be provided for each type. In addition, the game medal count display device 7 may be constructed using a liquid crystal display or the like, and the update mode may be changed by the liquid crystal display according to the model identification information, or a separate liquid crystal image may be displayed that makes it possible to identify that the model is different when the game medal count is updated. In addition, the main control board 310 is configured to transmit payout attribute information to the medal count control board 312 when game medals are paid out, but instead of transmitting payout attribute information, the medal count control board 312 may refer to the game status information received from the main control board 310 when game medals are paid out and determine the payout attributes based on the game status information at the time of payout.

[0106] In this way, in this third embodiment, when gaming medals are paid out, payout attribute information capable of identifying the attributes of the payout is transmitted as specified information from the main control board 310 to the medal count control board 312, and the medal count control board 312 stores the payout number for each payout attribute. Therefore, even if the main control board 310 is replaced, the commonly used medal count control board 312 can generate and display role ratio monitor information according to the model of the gaming machine 301 as specific control. Furthermore, the medal count control board 312 is configured in advance to be able to execute multiple types of update modes for the number of game medals on the game medal count display device 7, and when updating and displaying the number of game medals on the game medal count display device 7, specific control is executed by changing the update mode to either the first display mode or the second display mode depending on the model identification information from the main control board 310. Therefore, even if the main control board 310 is replaced, the commonly used medal count control board 312 can update and display the number of game medals depending on the model of the gaming machine 301, and the player can recognize the type of gaming machine 301 from the change in the update mode.

[0107] (Counting the number of games) In this third embodiment, a main control board 310 and a medal count control board 312 are provided separately, and based on control information from the main control board 310, the medal count control board 312 performs control related to counting the number of games in order to generate role ratio monitor information, etc., so that the medal count control board 312 will change the control related to counting the number of games in response to changes in the main control board 310. For example, in the case of an AT machine, the main control board 310 (game state control means) can be controlled to a normal game state and a specific game state (AT) which is more advantageous to the player than the normal game state, whereas in the case of a normal machine, the main control board 310 (game state control means) can control the normal game state but cannot control it to a specific game state. In addition, in the case of an AT machine, the main control board 310 (game state control means) is capable of controlling specific game states, and is therefore equipped with zone control means capable of controlling normal zones that can be controlled to a normal game state and advantageous zones that can be controlled to a specific game state, whereas in the case of a normal machine, the main control board 310 (game state control means) does not have zone control means. Since the gaming state, etc. differs for each machine type in this way, it becomes necessary to change the control related to counting the number of games in accordance with changes in the gaming state, etc. Therefore, in the third embodiment, the control relating to counting the number of games played is changed according to the model as specific control based on the model identification information transmitted from the main control board 310 to the medal count control board 312 when the power is turned on.

[0108] FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing the game number counting process performed in the medal count control board 312 (medal count control unit 312b) when a game is executed. When the power is turned on, the main control board 310 transmits model identification information capable of identifying the model. After the power is turned on, control information capable of specifying that a game has been played and control information capable of identifying the play area are transmitted to the medal count control board 312, and the medal count control board 312 counts the number of games played based on the control information received. For example, the main control board 310 as a gaming control means transmits, as predetermined information that can be transmitted to the medal count control board 312 (gaming value control means), in the case of an AT machine, model identification information (first identification information) corresponding to the AT machine, and in the case of a normal machine, model identification information (second identification information) corresponding to a normal machine that is different from the first identification information, and further in the case of an AT machine, information that can identify the gaming area, and the medal count control board 312 counts the number of games based on the reception of this control information.

[0109] First, when the game counting process is executed, it is determined whether or not a game has been executed (S40). That is, it is determined whether or not there is control information from the main control board 310 that can identify that a game has been executed. If no game has been played (No), this game counting process ends. If a game is executed in S40 (S40-Yes), it is determined whether or not it is an AT machine (S41). That is, by referring to the model identification information transmitted and stored when the power is turned on, it is determined whether or not the main control board 310 at this time corresponds to an AT machine.

[0110] If it is determined in S41 that the machine is not an AT machine (S41-No), the normal interval game number counter is incremented by "1" (S44) and this game number counting process is terminated. That is, the medal count control board 312 as the game value control means increments the normal interval game number counter without incrementing the advantageous interval game number counter described later, based on the reception of the model identification information (second specification information) corresponding to the normal machine. In other words, in the case of a normal machine, since there is no advantageous interval in the first place, when a game is executed, all counting is performed using the normal interval game number counter. In the case of a normal machine, the medal count control board 312 refers to the value of the normal interval game count counter to set, for example, the consecutive feature ratio for the most recent specified period (e.g., 6000 games) and the monitoring period for the feature ratio for the most recent specified period (e.g., 6000 games). In the case of normal machines, there is no normal interval, but the number of games is counted using the normal interval game number counter used in AT machines (using the corresponding RAM area in common). Therefore, although it is called the "normal interval game number counter," it is actually a counter that counts all the games.

[0111] If it is determined in S41 that the machine is an AT machine (S41-Yes), it is determined whether or not the machine is in an advantageous zone (S42). In other words, since an AT machine has a normal zone and an advantageous zone, it is determined in which game zone the current game was played. If it is not an advantageous period in S42 (S42-No), the normal period game number counter is incremented by "1" (S44) and the game number counting process is terminated. In other words, if a game is executed in the normal period, the normal period game number counter is updated. If it is determined in S42 that it is in the advantageous zone (S42-Yes), the advantageous zone game number counter is incremented by "1" (S43) and this game number counting process is terminated. That is, the medal count control board 312 as a gaming value control means adds the advantageous zone game number counter based on receiving the model identification information (first specific information) corresponding to the AT machine. In other words, in the case of an AT machine, since a normal zone and an advantageous zone are provided, when a game is executed, the number of games played is counted using a different counter for each game zone. In the case of an AT machine, the medal number control board 312 refers to the values ​​of the normal zone game number counter and the advantageous zone game number counter to calculate, for example, the cumulative advantageous zone ratio, and also sets the consecutive feature ratio for the latest specified period (for example, 6000 games) and the monitoring period for the feature ratio for the latest specified period (for example, 6000 games).

[0112] In this way, in the third embodiment, when a game is executed, the medal count control board 312 changes the counter for counting the number of games based on the model identification information. In other words, the medal count control board 312, which serves as a gaming value control means, is configured to be capable of counting the number of games executed in the advantageous zone as specific control based on receiving first specific information (model identification information corresponding to an AT machine) from the gaming control means (main control board 310), and is configured to be controllable so as not to count the number of games executed in the advantageous zone as specific control based on receiving second specific information (model identification information corresponding to a normal machine) from the gaming control means. Therefore, even if the main control board 310 is replaced, the number of each game can be efficiently counted on the commonly used medal count control board 312, and role ratio monitor information according to the model of the gaming machine 301 can be generated and displayed.

[0113] (Bonus information transmission process) In this third embodiment, the main control board 310 and the medal count control board 312 are provided separately, and various information is transmitted from the medal count control board 312 to the dedicated unit 19. Therefore, in response to changes to the main control board 310, the medal count control board 312 will change the information it transmits to the dedicated unit 19. For example, the main control board 310 as a game control means is provided with one capable of controlling a plurality of game states, but in the case of a machine equipped with a bonus, it is necessary to transmit information capable of identifying the occurrence of a bonus (bonus information) to the dedicated unit 19. Also, in the case of some AT machines, although they have a bonus function, there are also cases where a bonus (so-called zero bonus) does not provide a game value, and such a bonus does not need to be transmitted to the dedicated unit 19. Therefore, in the third embodiment, whether or not to transmit bonus information is changed depending on the model, based on model identification information as predetermined information transmitted from the main control board 310 to the medal count control board 312 when the power is turned on.

[0114] FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing the bonus information transmission process in the medal count control board 312 (medal count control section 312b). In the third embodiment, the medal count control board 312 transmits information on the game state, including bonus information, to the dedicated unit 19 based on control information from the main control board 310. Therefore, the medal count control board 312 as a game value control means includes output means for outputting information on the game state to the outside (dedicated unit 19) when a transition occurs from one game state to another game state among a plurality of game states.

[0115] First, when the bonus information transmission process is executed, it is determined whether or not a bonus signal is received (S50). In other words, when a bonus is being performed, a bonus signal is transmitted from the main control board 310 to the medal count control board 312, and the presence or absence of this bonus signal is determined. Note that even in the case of a bonus in which no game value is awarded, a bonus signal is transmitted and this bonus signal is received. If the bonus signal has not been received (No), the bonus information transmission process ends. If a bonus signal is received in S50 (S50-Yes), it is determined whether the machine is a bonus-equipped machine (S51). The judgment in S51 is to determine whether or not a bonus that awards game value is installed, and the model identification information may include information that can identify whether or not a bonus that awards game value is installed.

[0116] If it is determined in S51 that the machine is not a bonus-equipped machine (No), the bonus information is not sent to the dedicated unit 19 (the output is disabled) and the bonus information sending process is terminated. If it is determined in S51 that the machine is a bonus-equipped machine (S51-Yes), the bonus information is sent to the dedicated unit 19 (S52) and the bonus information sending process is terminated. In other words, when a bonus signal is received from the main control board 310, it is determined whether or not the generated bonus is a bonus for which a game value is awarded, and if it is a bonus for which a game value is awarded, the bonus information is sent to the dedicated unit 19 (output is enabled). In other words, the medal count control board 312, which serves as a game value control means, is capable of executing either control to enable the output means (medal count control board 312) or control to disable the output means based on receiving specified information (model identification information) from the game control means (main control board 310). In addition, when a bonus signal is received, the configuration may basically be such that bonus information is transmitted to the dedicated unit 19, and the transmission of bonus information to the dedicated unit 19 is stopped (the output means is disabled) only in cases where the machine is not equipped with a bonus. In addition, the decision to send bonus information to the dedicated unit 19 may be other than the above as long as it sends information to the dedicated unit 19 informing the presence or absence of a bonus that awards game value. For example, in the case of an AT machine, the model identification information may be referenced so that bonus information is not sent to the dedicated unit 19 even if a bonus signal is received.

[0117] In this way, in this third embodiment, when a bonus occurs, the medal count control board 312 performs specific control to change the transmission of bonus information to the dedicated unit 19 based on the model identification information (control to switch the output between enabled and disabled). Therefore, even if the main control board 310 is replaced, the commonly used medal count control board 312 can efficiently and reliably transmit bonus information to the dedicated unit 19.

[0118] (Enable restriction function) In the third embodiment, the main control board 310 and the medal count control board 312 are provided separately, so that even if the main control board 310 is replaced, the medal count control board 312 can be commonly used. The main control board 310 may be provided with a limiting function (so-called complete function) that limits the gaming value (gaming medals) awarded to a player during a specified period (for example, from when the power is turned on to when it is turned off) (for example, limiting it to an upper limit of 19,000 medals), but even main control boards 310 that do not have a limiting function must share the medal count control board 312. Therefore, in the third embodiment, whether or not to enable the limiting function is changed depending on the model, based on the model identification information transmitted from the main control board 310 to the medal count control board 312 when the power is turned on.

[0119] FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing the restriction function activation process in the medal count control board 312 (medal count control unit 312b). First, when the restriction function activation process is executed, it is determined whether or not the device is a normal device (S60). In other words, by referring to the model identification information received and stored when the power is turned on, it is determined whether or not the main control board 310 at this time corresponds to a normal device. If it is a normal machine (Yes), the process of disabling the limiting function is performed (S62), and the limiting function activation process is terminated. In other words, in the case of a normal machine, the possibility that the player will acquire a large amount of game value (game medals) is very low, so the limiting function is disabled.

[0120] If it is not a normal machine in S60 (No), the process of activating the limiting function is performed (S61), and the process of activating the limiting function is terminated. In other words, in the case of an AT machine, the player may acquire a very large amount of game value (game medals), so the limiting function is activated. When the limit function is enabled, the medal count control board 312 stops adding medals when the game value (game medals) given to the player in a predetermined period reaches the upper limit. In other words, the medal count control board 312 stops adding medals by itself without control information from the main control board 310. In addition, the limiting function may be something other than the so-called complete function described above, and may be, for example, a function (so-called limiter function) that limits the gaming value (gaming medals) granted to a player in one advantageous zone (for example, limiting it to an upper limit of 2,400 medals). Furthermore, the medal count control board 312 may notify the presence or absence of activation of the limiting function on the game medal count display device 7 or the like depending on the presence or absence of activation of the limiting function.

[0121] As described above, in this third embodiment, the medal count control board 312 performs control to change whether or not to enable the restriction function based on model identification information as a specific control, so that even if the main control board 310 is replaced, the medal count control board 312 that is used in common can efficiently and reliably perform control related to the restriction function.

[0122] (Push order bell role winning monitoring process) In the third embodiment, the main control board 310 and the medal count control board 312 are provided separately, so that even if the main control board 310 is replaced, the medal count control board 312 can be commonly used. When the main control board 310 is replaced, the game content will also change, and it will be necessary to change the monitoring control for errors and fraudulent actions related to the payout of game medals. For example, in the case of an AT machine, if the winning rate of the push order bell role within a specified period increases to an unusually high level even though the instruction function (push order navigation) is not operating, it is preferable to determine that some kind of abnormality (or fraudulent action) has occurred, but in the case of a normal machine, there is no instruction function, and in the first place, there is no push order bell role. Therefore, in the third embodiment, the monitoring control of the abnormal state is changed according to the model based on the model identification information transmitted from the main control board 310 to the medal count control board 312 when the power is turned on.

[0123] FIG. 23 is a flowchart showing the push order bell role winning monitoring process in the medal count control board 312 (medal count control unit 312b). First, when the push order bell role winning monitoring process is executed, it is judged whether it is an AT machine or not (S70). In other words, it is judged whether the main control board 310 at this time corresponds to an AT machine by referring to the model identification information received and stored when the power is turned on. If it is not an AT machine (No), the push order bell winning monitoring process is terminated. In other words, in the case of a normal machine, the push order bell winning monitoring process is not performed.

[0124] If it is an AT machine in S70 (S70-Yes), it is determined whether or not AT is in progress (S71). That is, it is determined whether or not an AT signal indicating that AT is in progress is received from the main control board 310. If AT is in progress (Yes), the process of monitoring the winning of the bell role in this push order is terminated. If the AT is not in progress in S71 (S71-No), it is determined whether or not the push order bell role has been won (S72). In other words, it is determined whether or not the push order bell role has been won by referring to the control information that can identify the type of winning role transmitted from the main control board 310 when the role is won. If the push order bell role has not been won (No), the push order bell role winning monitoring process is terminated. If the push order bell combination has been won in S72 (S72-Yes), the winning rate of the push order bell combination per unit number of games is calculated (S73). For example, the winning rate of the push order bell role when 100 games are played is calculated.

[0125] Next, in S74, it is determined whether or not the winning rate of the push order bell role exceeds a threshold value. If the winning rate of the push order bell role does not exceed the threshold (No), the push order bell role winning monitoring process is terminated. In S74, if the winning rate of the push order bell role exceeds the threshold (S74-Yes), abnormal processing is performed (S75). In other words, if the winning rate of the push order bell role is higher than would normally occur even though the AT is not in progress, it is determined to be an abnormal state and abnormal processing is performed. As the abnormality processing, for example, an abnormality notification may be made on the game medal count display device 7 or an abnormal state may be outputted to the outside. Also, payout may be stopped.

[0126] The abnormal state monitoring may be any type of abnormal state monitoring control that differs depending on the machine type, such as monitoring the winning rate of the push order bell role during the normal period, or monitoring the failure to transition to a predetermined number of games bonus despite winning the bonus. The threshold value for determining an abnormal state may be changed depending on the machine type, and for example, a rank may be set according to the winning probability of the push order bell role in an AT machine, and the threshold value of the push order bell role may be changed according to this rank. Furthermore, the manner in which an abnormality is notified when an abnormal state occurs (such as an error code) may be changed based on the model identification information.

[0127] In this way, in this third embodiment, the medal count control board 312 changes the monitoring control of abnormal conditions based on model identification information as specific control, so that even if the main control board 310 is replaced, the medal count control board 312 that is used in common can efficiently and reliably perform monitoring and control of abnormal conditions.

[0128] As described above, the gaming machine 301 of this embodiment has a separate main control board 310 and a medal count control board 312, and the medal count control board 312 is equipped with programs (first control information and second control information) corresponding to multiple models, and based on specified information from the main control board 310, the medal count control board 312 performs specific control related to the allocation of gaming value (related to the payout of gaming medals).Therefore, even if the main control board 310 is changed due to a model change, etc., the medal count control board 312 can be used in common.

[0129] In contrast to this, conventional gaming machines did not have sufficiently sophisticated circuit board configurations, and were not able to be effectively used to accommodate multiple models.

[0130] The above describes a preferred embodiment of the gaming machine of the present invention. However, it goes without saying that the gaming machine of the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and various modifications can be made within the scope of the present invention. The configurations of the above-described embodiment and the modified embodiments described below can be used in appropriate combinations, but detailed description thereof will be omitted. (Variations) (1) The main control board may be configured to perform some or all of the operations performed by the sub-control board. For example, the sub-control board may control the game medal count display device 7, and the sub-control board may be responsible for control in response to the operations of the count button 2c, the game medal count clear button 14, and the dedicated unit 19. In addition, the operation of the counting button lamp 2e and the bet number lamp 2f may be controlled by the main control board.

[0131] (2) In the embodiment, the gaming machine 1 has been shown to have a beneficial zone limiter (such as a difference in number of coins of 2400), but may have a configuration that does not have a beneficial zone limiter.

[0132] (3) In the present embodiment, the gaming machine is a slot machine, but it may be a pachinko machine. In other words, the gaming machine may be a so-called enclosed gaming machine in which gaming media such as gaming balls are not paid out to the outside but are circulated internally to play a game. In this case, the gaming machine can be provided with a gaming ball number display device corresponding to the gaming medal number display device 7. In addition, for example, the notification mode may be changed depending on the number of game balls stored and displayed in the game ball number display device, and when the counting button is pressed and held down, the amount of counting may be greater than when the counting button is pressed and held down, and when a game ball is acquired by continuing to press and hold the button after the number of game balls stored and displayed in the game ball number display device reaches zero, that game ball may be counted. In addition, regarding MY, in the case of a pachinko machine (a so-called smart pachinko machine), control may be performed so that the game ends when MY reaches 95,000 balls. [Explanation of symbols]

[0133] 1. Medalless gaming machines 2a Bet Button 2b MAX BET button 2c Count button 2d Checkout button 2e Counting button lamp 2f Number of bets lamp 7. Gaming medal count display device 8 Display 14. Clear medal count button 19 Dedicated Unit 19a Connection terminal board 20 Sub-control section 50 Role ratio monitor device 301 Gaming machines 310 Main control board 310a Main memory 310b Main control unit 312 Medal count control board 312a Medal count memory section 312b Medal count control unit 320 Sub-control board

Claims

1. In a gaming machine in which a game can be played without using actual gaming media and a gaming value that can be used for a game can be managed, A game control means capable of executing control related to a game; a game value control means capable of executing control relating to the game value; a display means capable of displaying information regarding the game value when the game value is awarded to a player; Equipped with The game control means includes: The information transmittable to the game value control means includes first identification information and second identification information different from the first identification information, The game value control means includes: A first control information for controlling one type of gaming machine and a second control information for controlling another type of gaming machine are provided, a display mode of the display means when the game value is awarded to the player is controlled to a first display mode using the first control information based on receiving the first identification information from the game control means; Based on receiving the second specification information from the game control means, the display mode of the display means when the game value is awarded to the player can be controlled to a second display mode using the second control information. A gaming machine characterized by:

2. In a gaming machine in which a game can be played without using actual gaming media and a gaming value that can be used for a game can be managed, A game control means capable of executing control related to a game; a game value control means capable of executing control relating to the game value; A game state control means capable of controlling a normal game state and a specific game state which is more advantageous to a player than the normal game state; A zone control means capable of controlling a normal zone that can be controlled to the normal gaming state and an advantageous zone that can be controlled to the specific gaming state; Equipped with The game control means includes: The information transmittable to the game value control means includes first identification information and second identification information different from the first identification information, The game value control means includes: The game control means is capable of controlling the game device to count the number of games executed in the advantageous zone based on receiving the first identification information from the game control means; Based on receiving the second specification information from the game control means, it is possible to control so as not to count the number of games executed in the advantageous period. A gaming machine characterized by:

3. In a gaming machine in which a game can be played without using actual gaming media and a gaming value that can be used for a game can be managed, A game control means capable of executing control related to a game; a game value control means capable of executing control relating to the game value; A game state control means capable of controlling a plurality of game states; Equipped with The game value control means includes: an output means for outputting information on a game state to an outside when a transition from one game state to another game state occurs among a plurality of game states; Based on receiving predetermined information from the game control means, the game control device is capable of executing either one of a control for enabling the output means or a control for disabling the output means. A gaming machine characterized by:

Images