US20080214268A1

Movatterモバイル変換

Info

Publication number: US20080214268A1
Application number: US12/035,186
Authority: US
Inventors: Katsuhiro Kido
Original assignee: Aruze Corp
Current assignee: Universal Entertainment Corp
Priority date: 2007-02-27
Filing date: 2008-02-21
Publication date: 2008-09-04
Also published as: JP2008206841A; AU2008200872A1

Abstract

Control is performed to determine whether or not a predicted game outcome inputted by an input device coincides with an actual game outcome. Thereafter, an award is provided based on the determination result.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application is based upon and claims the benefit of priority from Japanese Patent Application No. 2007-047986 filed on Feb. 27, 2007, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to a game machine which provides awards or credits when a game outcome predicted by a player coincides with an actual game outcome, and a method for controlling the game machine.

2. Description of the Related Art

A so-called roulette device is described in International Patent Publication No. WO 04/094013. This roulette device repeatedly executes roulette games. In the roulette game, a roulette wheel including a plurality of pockets having numbers previously attached thereto is rotated. At the same time, a ball is launched onto the roulette wheel. Thereafter, the ball is received in any one of the pockets.

Before the roulette game starts, the player predicts in which one of the pockets the ball will be received and bets credits on the predicted pocket. A predetermined number of credits are paid out to the player when the pocket on which the credits are bet coincides with the pocket having the ball received therein.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

However, the roulette device described above repeats only processing of executing the roulette games and paying out credits when the pocket predicted by the player coincides with the pocket having the ball received therein. Due to such repetition, the roulette device has a problem that the player tends to find the game monotonous. Thus, a game machine having new entertainment properties has been desired.

It is an object of the present invention to provide a game machine having new entertainment properties, and a method for controlling the game machine.

In order to achieve the foregoing object, a game machine according to a first aspect of the present invention includes: a game execution device executing a unit game to obtain a game outcome from among predetermined game outcomes of the unit game; an input device for inputting a predicted game outcome from among the predetermined game outcomes, before the unit game starts; and a controller operable to: a) control the game execution device to repeatedly execute the unit game; b) store the predicted game outcomes for the plurality of unit games inputted by the input device, in association with the plurality of unit games, respectively; c) store actual game outcomes obtained from the plurality of unit games, in association with the plurality of unit games, respectively; d) determine, whether or not the predicted game outcome inputted by the input device coincides with the actual game outcome, for each of the plurality of unit games; and e) provide an award based on the determination result.

The game machine according to the first aspect described above has the following new entertainment properties. Specifically, for each of the plurality of unit games, it is determined whether or not each of the predicted game outcomes inputted coincides with the actual game outcome. Thereafter, an award is provided based on the determination result.

A game machine according to a second aspect of the present invention includes: a roulette device executing a roulette game in which, while a roulette wheel including a plurality of pockets with respective numbers previously attached thereto is rotated, a ball is launched onto the roulette wheel and then is received in any one of the pockets afterward; an input device for inputting a predicted game outcome from among predetermined game outcomes of the roulette game, before the roulette game starts; and a controller operable to: a) control the roulette device to repeatedly execute the roulette game; b) store the predicted game outcomes of the plurality of roulette games inputted by the input device, in association with the plurality of roulette games, respectively; c) store actual game outcomes obtained from the plurality of roulette games, in association with the plurality of roulette games, respectively; d) determine, each of the plurality of roulette games, whether or not the predicted game outcome inputted by the input device coincides with the actual game outcome; and e) provide an award based on the determination result.

The game machine according to the second aspect described above has the following new entertainment properties. Specifically, for each of the plurality of roulette games, it is determined whether or not each of the predicted game outcomes inputted coincides with the actual game outcome. Thereafter, an award is provided based on the determination result.

A game machine according to a third aspect of the present invention includes: a roulette device executing a roulette game in which, while a roulette wheel including a plurality of pockets with respective numbers previously attached thereto is rotated, a ball is launched onto the roulette wheel and then is received in any one of the pockets afterward; an input device for inputting, a predicted game outcomes from among predetermined game outcomes of the roulette game, before the roulette game starts; a correspondence table showing a correspondence relationship between each of the predicted game outcomes inputted by the input device, and a data concerning levels of awards to be provided and a controller operable to: a) control the roulette device to repeatedly execute the roulette game; b) store the predicted game outcomes of the plurality of roulette games inputted by the input device, in association with the plurality of roulette games, respectively; c) store actual game outcomes obtained from the plurality of roulette games in association with the plurality of roulette games, respectively; d) determine whether or not the predicted game outcomes inputted by the input device coincide with the actual game outcomes for each of the plurality of roulette games; e) determine an award to be provided based on the determination result and the correspondence table; and f) provide the determined award.

The game machine according to the third aspect described above has the following new entertainment properties. Specifically, for each of the plurality of roulette games, it is determined whether or not each of the predicted game outcomes inputted coincides with the actual game outcome. Thereafter, an award is provided based on the determination result.

Furthermore, according to the third aspect, the level of the award to be provided is determined based on the correspondence table. Thus, the award to be provided can be quickly determined.

A game machine according to a forth aspect of the present invention includes: a roulette device executing a roulette game in which, while a roulette wheel including a plurality of pockets with respective numbers previously attached thereto is rotated, a ball is launched onto the roulette wheel and then is received in any one of the pockets afterward; an input device for inputting, a predicted game outcomes from among predetermined game outcomes of the roulette game, before the roulette game starts; and a controller operable to: a) control the roulette device to repeatedly execute the roulette game; b) store the predicted game outcomes of the plurality of roulette games inputted by the input device, in association with a plurality of the roulette games, respectively; c) store actual game outcomes obtained from the plurality of roulette games, in association with the plurality of roulette games, respectively; d) determine whether or not the predicted game outcome inputted by the input device coincides with the actual game outcome, for each of the plurality of roulette games; e) randomly determine a level of an award to be provided based on the determination result; and f) provide the determined award.

The game machine according to the fourth aspect described above has the following new entertainment properties. Specifically, for each of the plurality of roulette games, it is determined whether or not each of the predicted game outcomes inputted coincides with the actual game outcome. Thereafter, an award is provided based on the determination result.

Furthermore, according to the fourth aspect, the level of the award to be provided is randomly determined. Thus, it is possible to allow a player to have expectation and anxiety about how many credits he/she can get this time. As a result, the player's interest in the roulette game can be maintained.

A method for controlling a game machine according to a fifth aspect of the present invention includes: repeatedly executing a unit game to obtain a game outcome from among predetermined game outcomes; enabling an input device to be used to input a predicted game outcome from among the predetermined game outcomes before the unit game starts; storing the predicted game outcomes of the plurality of unit games inputted by the input device, in association with the plurality of unit games, respectively; storing actual game outcomes obtained from the plurality of unit games in association with the plurality of unit games, respectively; determining, whether or not the predicted game outcome inputted by the input device coincides with the actual game outcome, for each of the plurality of unit games; and providing an award based on the determination result.

The game machine according to the fifth aspect described above has the following new entertainment properties. Specifically, for each of the plurality of unit games, it is determined whether or not each of the predicted game outcomes inputted coincides with the actual game outcome. Thereafter, an award is provided based on the determination result.

A method for controlling a game machine according to a sixth aspect of the present invention includes: repeatedly executing a roulette game in which, while a roulette wheel including a plurality of pockets with respective numbers previously attached thereto is rotated, a ball is launched onto the roulette wheel and then is received in any one of the pockets afterward; enabling an input device to be used to input a predicted game outcome from among predetermined game outcomes of the roulette game, before the roulette game starts; storing the predicted game outcomes of the plurality of roulette games inputted by the input device, in association with the plurality of roulette games, respectively; storing actual game outcomes respectively obtained from the plurality of roulette games, in association with the plurality of roulette games; determining, for each of the plurality of roulette games, whether or not the predicted game outcome inputted by the input device coincides with the actual game outcome; and providing an award based on the determination result.

The method according to the sixth aspect described above has the following new entertainment properties. Specifically, for each of the plurality of roulette games, it is determined whether or not each of the predicted game outcomes inputted coincides with the actual game outcome. Thereafter, an award is provided based on the determination result.

A method for controlling a game machine according to a seventh aspect of the present invention includes: repeatedly executing a roulette game in which, while a roulette wheel including a plurality of pockets with respective numbers previously attached thereto is rotated, a ball is launched onto the roulette wheel and then is received in any one of the pockets afterward; enabling an input device to be used to input a predicted game outcome from among predetermined game outcomes of the roulette game, before the roulette game starts; storing the predicted game outcomes of the plurality of roulette games inputted by the input device in association with the plurality of roulette games, respectively; storing actual game outcomes obtained from the plurality of roulette games in association with the plurality of roulette games, respectively; determining whether or not the predicted game outcome inputted by the input device coincides with the actual game outcome, for each of the plurality of roulette games; determining a level of an award to be provided based on the determination result and a correspondence table showing a correspondence relationship between each of the game outcomes inputted by use of the input device, and the level of the award to be provided; and providing the determined award.

The method according to the seventh aspect described above has the following new entertainment properties. Specifically, for each of the plurality of roulette games, it is determined whether or not each of the predicted game outcomes inputted coincides with the actual game outcome. Thereafter, an award is provided based on the determination result.

Furthermore, according to the seventh aspect, the level of the award to be provided is determined based on the correspondence table. Thus, the award to be provided can be quickly determined.

A method for controlling a game machine according to a eighth aspect of the present invention includes: repeatedly executing a roulette game in which, while a roulette wheel including a plurality of pockets with respective numbers previously attached thereto is rotated, a ball is launched onto the roulette wheel and then is received in any one of the pockets afterward; enabling an input device to be used to input a predicted game outcome from among predetermined game outcomes of the roulette game before the roulette game starts; storing the predicted game outcomes of the plurality of roulette games inputted by the input device, in association with the plurality of roulette games, respectively; storing actual game outcomes obtained from the plurality of roulette games in association with the plurality of roulette games, respectively; determining whether or not the predicted game outcome inputted by the input device coincides with the actual game outcome, for each of the plurality of roulette games; randomly determining a level of an award to be provided based on the determination result; and providing the determined award.

The method according to the eighth aspect described above has the following new entertainment properties. Specifically, for each of the plurality of roulette games, it is determined whether or not each of the predicted game outcomes inputted coincides with the actual game outcome. Thereafter, an award is provided based on the determination result.

Furthermore, according to the eighth aspect, the level of the award to be provided is randomly determined. Thus, it is possible to allow a player to have expectation and anxiety about how many credits he/she can get this time. As a result, the player's interest in the roulette game can be maintained.

The present invention has the following new entertainment properties. Specifically, for each of the plurality of unit games, it is determined whether or not each of the game outcomes inputted coincides with the actual game outcome. Thereafter, credits are paid out based on the determination result.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a flowchart schematically showing a process performed by a game machine according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a plan view showing a roulette device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3 is an external perspective view schematically showing a configuration of the game machine according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a view showing an example of an image displayed on an image display device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a view showing an example of an image displayed on an image display device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a view showing an example of an image displayed on an image display device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 7 is a view showing an example of an image displayed on an image display device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a view showing an example of an image displayed on an image display device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 9 is a view showing an example of an image displayed on an image display device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 10 is a view showing an example of an image displayed on an image display device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 11 is a view showing an example of an image displayed on an image display device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 12 is a block diagram showing an internal configuration of a roulette game machine according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 13 is a schematic view showing storage areas in a ROM according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 14 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the correspondence table according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 15 is a schematic view showing storage areas in a RAM according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 16 is a block diagram showing an internal configuration of the roulette device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 17 is a schematic view showing storage areas in the ROM according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 18 is a block diagram showing an internal configuration of a station according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing an outline of game processes performed in the gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing an outline of game processes performed in the gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing an outline of game processes performed in the gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention.

DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENT

FIG. 1 is a flowchart schematically showing processing performed by agame machine1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. In Step S200, thegame machine1 executes more than one roulette game. In the roulette game, while aroulette wheel22 is rotated, aball27 is launched onto theroulette wheel22. Thereafter, theball27 is received in any one of pockets. Note that one roulette game starts when processing of Step S104 to be described later is started and the roulette game is finished when processing of Step S111 to be described later is finished.

In Step S201, thegame machine1 determines whether or not a condition that first to third special desired number groups are bet is satisfied. If the condition is satisfied, the processing advances to Step S202. On the other hand, if the condition is not satisfied, the processing is terminated. Here, the first to third special desired number groups represent number groups on which a player makes bets in three respective roulette games. Each of the number groups includes one or a plurality of numbers. The player predicts a number of a ball housing pocket and bets medals on the number group including the number. The ball housing pocket shows the number of the pocket having the ball received therein.

In Step S202, thegame machine1 determines whether or not a condition that all the first to third special desired number groups coincide with three ball housing numbers is satisfied. If the condition is satisfied, the processing advances to Step S203. On the other hand, if the condition is not satisfied, the processing is terminated. When the number group on which the medals are bet by the player includes the number of the ball housing pocket, the number group on which the medals are bet by the player coincides with the ball housing number. In Step S203, thegame machine1 pays out the medals. Thereafter, thegame machine1 terminates the processing.

It should be note that medals are used as a game medium to execute the roulette game for explaining the embodiment of the present invention hereinafter, however, the game medium is not limited in particular to the medal. Instead, coins, bills, and game media including electronic value information equivalent thereto can be used, for example. Further, a game media to be provided is also not limited to those described above. In other wards, the game media can be awards with various levels or the like corresponding to outcomes of the roulette game.

FIG. 2 is a plan view showing a roulette device3 (game execution device).FIG. 3 is an external perspective view showing thegame machine1. Note that thegame machine1 is a stand-alone game machine that is not connected to a network. However, the present invention can also be applied to a game machine connected to the network.

As shown inFIG. 2, theroulette device3 included in thegame machine1 includes aframe21 fixed to a chassis2 (seeFIG. 3) and theroulette wheel22 rotatably received and supported inside theframe21. On an upper surface of theroulette wheel22, a number of (a total of 38 in this embodiment) concave number pockets23 are formed. Furthermore, any of the numbers “0”, “00” and “1” to “36” is set in each of the number pockets23. The numbers set in the respective number pockets23 are displayed onnumber boards25 formed on the outside of the respective number pockets23. These numbers belong to either of two color groups, a red group and a black group. Thenumber boards25 each are colored in red or black (each of the colors is indicated by presence or absence of hatching. Specifically, the portions with hatching represent black and the portions without hatching represent red). The color of each of thenumber boards25 indicates the color group to which the number displayed on thenumber board25 belongs.

Inside theframe21, a ball throw-in slot36 is formed. A ball throw-in device104 (seeFIG. 16) is connected to the ball throw-in slot36. Along with driving of the ball throw-indevice104, theball27 is thrown onto theroulette wheel22 from the ball throw-in slot36. Moreover, theentire roulette device3 is covered with a hemispherical cover member28 (seeFIG. 3) that is made of transparent acrylic.

Below theroulette wheel22, a wheel driving motor106 (seeFIG. 16) is provided. Along with driving of thewheel driving motor106, theroulette wheel22 is rotated.

Moreover, metal plates (not shown) are attached at predetermined intervals below theroulette wheel22. These metal plates are detected by a proximity sensor included in a pocket position detection circuit107 (seeFIG. 16), thereby enabling detection of positions of the number pockets23.

Theframe21 is gradually tilted toward the inside and has aguide wall29 formed in its intermediate portion. Theguide wall29 allows theball27 thrown to roll while guiding the ball against centrifugal force. As the centrifugal force is reduced along with slowing down of the rotation speed of the roulette wheel, theball27 rolls down the slope of theframe21 toward the inside and reaches therotating roulette wheel22. Thereafter, theball27 rolling onto theroulette wheel22 is received in any one of the number pockets23 after passing thenumber boards25 on the outside of theroulette wheel22. As a result, the number set in the number pocket23 (hereinafter also referred to as a “ball housing pocket”) in which the ball is received is determined by aball sensor105. The number of the ball housing pocket will be hereinafter also referred to as a “ball housing number”.

Next, a configuration of thegame machine1 will be described. As shown inFIG. 3, thegame machine1 includes: thechassis2 to be a main body part; theroulette device3 provided in an approximately center portion of an upper surface of thechassis2; a plurality of (12 in this embodiment)stations4 placed so as to surround theroulette device3; and anelectronic display unit5 provided above thechassis2.

Each of thestations4 has at least: amedal insertion slot6 into which coins or currency values of game media such as chips or medals used for games are inserted; acontrol part7 formed of a plurality of control buttons and the like, which are used by the player to input predetermined instructions; and animage display device8 which displays images associated with a roulette game. Thestation4 accepts a bet made by the player. The player can proceed with the roulette game to be developed by operating a touch panel, thecontrol part7 and the like while looking at the images displayed on theimage display device8.

Moreover, in each of side faces of thechassis2 on which thestations4 are placed,medal payout openings9 are provided, respectively. Furthermore, aspeaker10 which emits music, sound effects and the like is provided above an upper right corner of theimage display device8 in each of thestations4.

AWIN lamp11 is provided above theimage display device8 in eachstation4. When there is astation4 in which medals are bet on the number group (to be described later) that includes the ball housing number, theWIN lamp11 of thestation4 is turned on. Moreover, theWIN lamp11 of thestation4 in which a jackpot (hereinafter also referred to as a “JP”) is obtained in a JP bonus game for obtaining the JP is also turned on in the same manner. Note that theWIN lamp11 is provided at a position visible from all thestations4 placed (12 stations in this embodiment). Thus, other players playing games with thesame game machine1 can always check turning on of the WIN lamp.

Inside themedal insertion slot6, a medal sensor (not shown) is provided. The medal sensor identifies currency values of the medals or the like which are inserted from themedal insertion slot6 and counts the inserted medals. Moreover, a hopper (not shown) is provided inside themedal payout opening9, and used to payout a predetermined number of medals from themedal payout opening9.

Aserver13 is disposed inside acorner portion12 positioned at a corner of thechassis2. Theserver13 is normally housed inside thecorner portion12 so as not to be operated by the player. However, theserver13 can be operated by using a key switch to open acorner door14 provided in thecorner portion12. Various settings for thegame machine1 can be made by operating theserver13.

In theelectronic display unit5, a JPamount display unit15 is provided, which displays a JP amount (specifically, the number of credits for JP to be described later). In thegame machine1, three kinds of JPs, “MEGA”, “MAJOR” and “MINI”, are prepared as described later. As credits for “MEGA” (hereinafter also referred to as “MEGA credits”), thegame machine1 cumulatively stores 0.15% of the medals bet at all the twelvestations4. As credits for “MAJOR” (hereinafter also referred to as “MAJOR credits”), thegame machine1 cumulatively stores 0.20% of the medals bet at all the twelvestations4. As credits for “MINI” (hereinafter also referred to as “MINI credits”), thegame machine1 cumulatively stores 0.30% of the medals bet at all the twelvestations4. Hereinafter, “MEGA credits”, “MAJOR credits” and “MINI credits” will be simply referred to as “JP credits”.

Thegame machine1 determines whether or not to payout the JP credits. When it is determined that the JP credits are to be paid out, determinations are made as to for whichstation4 the JP credits are to be paid out and which JP credits are to be paid out.

On the JPamount display unit15, a JP accumulated amount for “MEGA” (in other words, the number of credits for MEGA) among the three kinds of JPs is displayed. Note that the JPamount display unit15 is provided in a top portion of theelectronic display unit5. Thus, contents displayed on the JPamount display unit15 are visible to all the players playing games at thestations4.

FIG. 4 is a view showing an example of an image displayed on the image display device. As shown inFIG. 4, during a roulette game, aBET screen61 having abet operation panel60 is displayed on theimage display device8. The player can bet medals (credits) he/she has by operating a touch panel50 (input device) provided on a front surface of theimage display device8.

First, with reference toFIG. 4, theBET screen61 displayed during the game will be described. On thebet operation panel60 displayed on theBET screen61,38 kinds of numbers “0”, “00” and “1” to “36” are arranged and displayed in a grid pattern. Moreover, particular BET areas for betting chips by specifying “odd numbers”, “even numbers”, “color type of number board (red or black)” or “a certain number range (for example, “1” to “12” and the like)” are also arranged similarly in a grid pattern.

The player uses thebet operation panel60 to input the number group. Specifically, the player predicts the number of the ball housing pocket and inputs the number group including the predicted number. If the number of the ball housing pocket is included in the number group inputted by the player, medals are paid out. In each of the number groups, a base payout rate is set. The base payout rate is used to determine the number of medals to be paid out in a base game. The base game will be described later.

On thecolumn bet panels60cto60e, characters “2 to 1” are drawn. Thecolumn bet panel60ccorresponds to a straight bet panel array in the vertical direction passing through thecolumn bet panel60c(in other words, an array including the straight bet panels having “3”, “6” and “9” to “36” drawn thereon (except thestraight bet panel60ahaving “00” drawn thereon)). Specifically, thecolumn bet panel60ccorresponds to a number group including all the numbers drawn on the straight bet panel array (in other words, a number group including “3”, “6” and “9” to “36”). If the player wishes to input the number group including all the numbers drawn on thecolumn bet panel60c, he/she presses thecolumn bet panel60c. The base payout rate set for the number group described above is 2 (2 to 1 odds).

Thecolumn bet panel60dcorresponds to a straight bet panel array in the vertical direction passing through thecolumn bet panel60d(in other words, an array including the straight bet panels having “2”, “5” and “8” to “35” drawn thereon (except thestraight bet panels60ahaving “0” and “00” drawn thereon)). Specifically, thecolumn bet panel60dcorresponds to a number group including all the numbers drawn on the straight bet panel array (in other words, a number group including “2”, “5” and “8” to “35”). If the player wishes to input the number group including all the numbers drawn on thecolumn bet panel60d, he/she presses thecolumn bet panel60d. The base payout rate set for the number group described above is 2 (2 to 1 odds).

Thecolumn bet panel60ecorresponds to a straight bet panel array in the vertical direction passing through thecolumn bet panel60e(in other words, an array including the straight bet panels having “1”, “4” and “7” to “34” drawn thereon (except thestraight bet panel60ahaving “0” drawn thereon)). Specifically, thecolumn bet panel60ecorresponds to a number group including all the numbers drawn on the straight bet panel array (in other words, a number group including “1”, “4” and “7” to “34”). If the player wishes to input the number group including all the numbers drawn on thecolumn bet panel60e, he/she presses thecolumn bet panel60e. The base payout rate set for the number group described above is 2 (2 to 1 odds). The operation of pressing each of thecolumn bet panels60cto60eis also called a “column bet operation”.

On thedozen bet panel60f, characters “1st 12” are drawn. “1^st12” means “1” to “12”. Therefore, thedozen bet panel60fcorresponds to a number group including “1” to “12”. If the player wishes to input the number group including “1” to “12”, he/she presses thedozen bet panel60f. The base payout rate set for the number group described above is 2 (2 to 1 odds).

On thedozen bet panel60g, characters “2nd 12” are drawn. “2^nd12” means “13” to “24”. Therefore, thedozen bet panel60gcorresponds to a number group including “13” to “24”. If the player wishes to input the number group including “13” to “24”, he/she presses thedozen bet panel60g. The base payout rate set for the number group described above is 2 (2 to 1 odds).

On thedozen bet panel60h, characters “3rd 12” are drawn. “3^rd12” means “25” to “36”. Therefore, thedozen bet panel60hcorresponds to a number group including “25” to “36”. If the player wishes to input the number group including “25” to “36”, he/she presses thedozen bet panel60h. The base payout rate set for the number group described above is 2 (2 to 1 odds). Note that the operation of pressing each of thedozen bet panels60fto60his also called a “dozen bet operation”.

On theeven bet panel60i, characters “1 to 18” are drawn. “1 to 18” means “1” to “18”. Therefore, theeven bet panel60icorresponds to a number group including “1” to “18”. If the player wishes to input the number group including “1” to “18”, he/she presses theeven bet panel60i. The base payout rate set for the number group described above is 1 (1 to 1 odds).

On theeven bet panel60j, a word “EVEN” is drawn. “EVEN” means “even numbers”. Therefore, theeven bet panel60jcorresponds to a number group including all the “even numbers”. If the player wishes to input the number group including all the even numbers, he/she presses theeven bet panel60j. The base payout rate set for the number group described above is 1 (1 to 1 odds).

On theeven bet panel60k, a red diamond shape is drawn. Therefore, theeven bet panel60kcorresponds to a number group including all the numbers belonging to a red group. If the player wishes to input the number group including all the numbers belonging to the red group, he/she presses theeven bet panel60k. The base payout rate set for the number group described above is 1 (1 to 1 odds).

On theeven bet panel60m, a black diamond shape is drawn. Therefore, theeven bet panel60mcorresponds to a number group including all the numbers belonging to a black group. If the player wishes to input the number group including all the numbers belonging to the black group, he/she presses theeven bet panel60m. The base payout rate set for the number group described above is 1 (1 to 1 odds).

On theeven bet panel60n, a word “ODD” is drawn. “ODD” means “odd numbers”. Therefore, theeven bet panel60ncorresponds to a number group including all the “odd numbers”. If the player wishes to input the number group including all the odd numbers, he/she presses theeven bet panel60n. The base payout rate set for the number group described above is 1 (1 to 1 odds).

On theeven bet panel60p, characters “19 to 36” are drawn. “19 to 36” means “19” to “36”. Therefore, theeven bet panel60pcorresponds to a number group including “19” to “36”. If the player wishes to input the number group including “19” to “36”, he/she presses theeven bet panel60p. The base payout rate set for the number group described above is 1 (1 to 1 odds). Note that the operation of pressing each of theeven bet panels60ito60pis also called an “even bet operation”.

Meanwhile, there are various number groups that can be inputted by the player, besides those described above. Aframe border60bis used to input such other number groups.

Specifically, in theframe border60b, a portion (hereinafter also referred to as a “split bet corresponding portion”) which constitutes a boundary line between two adjacentstraight bet panels60a(for example, thestraight bet panel60ahaving “3” drawn thereon and thestraight bet panel60ahaving “6” drawn thereon) corresponds to a number group including the numbers drawn on the twostraight bet panels60a. If the player wishes to input the number group described above, he/she presses the split bet corresponding portion in theframe border60b. The base payout rate set for the number group described above is 17 (17 to 1 odds). Note that the operation of pressing the split bet corresponding portion in theframe border60bis also called a “split bet operation”.

In theframe border60b, a portion (hereinafter also referred to as a “street bet corresponding portion”) which passes through an upper end of a straight bet panel array in the horizontal direction (for example, a straight bet panel array including thestraight bet panels60ahaving “1”, “2” and “3” drawn thereon. Such a panel array will be hereinafter referred to as a “street bet panel array”) corresponds to a number group including all the numbers drawn on the street bet panel array. If the player wishes to input the number group described above, he/she presses the street bet corresponding portion in theframe border60b. The base payout rate set for the number group described above is 11 (11 to 1 odds). Note that the operation of pressing the street bet corresponding portion in theframe border60bis also called a “street bet operation”.

Fourstraight bet panels60ain contact with each other (for example,straight bet panels60ahaving “1”, “2”, “4” and “5” drawn thereon. A group of suchstraight bet panels60awill be hereinafter referred to as a “corner bet group”) come into contact with each other at one point (hereinafter also referred to as a “corner bet corresponding portion”) on theframe border60b. This point corresponds to a number group including all the numbers drawn on the panels in the corner bet group. If the player wishes to input the number group described above, he/she presses the corner bet corresponding portion in theframe border60b. The base payout rate set for the number group described above is 8 (8 to 1 odds). Note that the operation of pressing the corner bet corresponding portion in theframe border60bis also called a “corner bet operation”.

In theframe border60b, an upper end portion (hereinafter also referred to as a “five bet corresponding portion”) in theframe border60bpassing between a street bet panel array including thestraight bet panels60ahaving “0” and “00” drawn thereon and a street bet panel array including thestraight bet panels60ahaving “1”, “2” and “3” drawn thereon corresponds to a number group including all the numbers drawn on the two street bet panel arrays. If the player wishes to input the number group described above, he/she presses the five bet corresponding portion in theframe border60b. The base payout rate set for the number group described above is 6 (6 to 1 odds). Note that the operation of pressing the five bet corresponding portion in theframe border60bis also called a “five bet operation”.

In theframe border60b, an upper end portion (except the “five bet corresponding portion” described above, hereinafter also referred to as a “line bet corresponding portion”) in theframe border60bpassing between two adjacent street bet panel arrays (for example, a street bet panel array having “1”, “2” and “3” drawn thereon and a street bet panel array having “4”, “5” and “6” drawn thereon) corresponds to a number group including all the numbers drawn on the two street bet panel arrays. If the player wishes to input the number group described above, he/she presses the line bet corresponding portion in theframe border60b. The base payout rate set for the number group described above is 5 (5 to 1 odds). Note that the operation of pressing the line bet corresponding portion in theframe border60bis also called a “line bet operation”.

A determinationresult display area62, a special game betnumber display area63, special

game bet buttons

64 and64ato64cand a payback medalnumber display area70 are displayed on the right of thebet operation panel60.

When a player bets medals on a special game, which will be described later, in the determinationresult display area62, the respective outcomes of the three preceding roulette games from the current game are displayed, that is, the outcomes on whether or not the number group on which the player bets coincides with the ball housing number for each game are displayed. Specifically, the determinationresult display area62 includes determinationresult display areas62ato62c. In the determination

result display areas

62a,62band63c, whether or not the number group on which the player bets coincides with the ball housing number is displayed for the first-last, second-last and third-last roulette games, respectively. Note that, if the number group coincides with the ball housing number, a word “OK” is displayed, and, if otherwise, a word “NG” is displayed.

In the special game betnumber display area63, the number of medals bet on the special game by the player is displayed. The special

game bet buttons

64 and64ato64care used to bet medals on the special game and will be concretely described later. In the payback medalnumber display area70, the number of medals to be paid back in the special game is displayed.

Below thebet operation panel60, a resulthistory display unit65, betunit determination buttons66A to66D, a basegame bet button66E, a payback medalnumber display area67 and a creditnumber display unit68 are displayed.

In the resulthistory display unit65, the ball housing number is displayed for each of three preceding roulette games from the current game. Specifically, the resulthistory display unit65 includes resulthistory display units65ato65c. The result

history display units

65a,65band65cdisplay the ball housing numbers in the first-last, second-last and third-last roulette games, respectively.

The betunit determination buttons66A to66D are used to set the number of medals to be bet as one unit. The number of medals to be bet as one unit will be described later. Each of the numbers drawn on the betunit determination buttons66A to66D indicates the number of medals to be bet as one unit, which is set by pressing each of the buttons. For example, by pressing the betunit determination button66A, the player sets the number of medals to be bet as one unit to “1”. In an initial mode, the number of medals to be bet as one unit is set to “1”. In the payback medalnumber display area67, the number of medals to be paid back in the base game is displayed.

In the creditnumber display unit68, the total number of medals inserted into thestation4 by the player (hereinafter also referred to as a “total credit number”) is displayed. The total credit number is reduced by 1 every time one medal is bet by the player. Moreover, when the medals are to be paid back, the total credit number is increased by the number of medals paid back.

Moreover, a BETtime display unit69 is provided above thebet operation panel60. The BETtime display unit69 displays remaining time for which the player can make bets. In the BETtime display unit69, “20” is displayed when acceptance of bets is started. Thereafter, the number is reduced by 1 every second and the acceptance of bets is finished when the number reaches “0”. Moreover, when the time for which the player can make bets at each of thestations4 has 5 seconds to go, the ball throw-in device is driven to throw theball27 onto a roulette board.

Moreover, to the right of the BETtime display unit69, provided are: aMEGA display unit73 for displaying the number of credits for MEGA, in other words, a MEGA credit number; aMAJOR display unit74 for displaying the number of credits for MAJOR, in other words, a MAJOR credit number; and aMINI display unit75 for displaying the number of credits for MINI, in other words, a MINI credit number. The numbers displayed on theMEGA display unit73, theMAJOR display unit74 and theMINI display unit75 are common to all thestations4.

When any of the JP credits are paid out, an initial value (200 credits for “MINI”, 5000 credits for “MAJOR” and 50000 credits for “MEGA”) is displayed on the display unit corresponding to the JP credits paid out.

Next, with reference toFIGS. 4 and 5, a bet method will be described. Note that, inFIGS. 4 to 11, numbers that should be displayed on theBET screen61 may be omitted for convenience of description. Thegame machine1 provides the player with two kinds of roulette games, more specifically, a base game and a special game. The base game is a game for determining whether or not to payout medals to the player after one roulette game is finished. The special game is a game for determining whether or not to payout medals to the player after three roulette games are finished.

The player bets medals on the base game in the following manner. Specifically, while pressing the basegame bet button66E, the player predicts the ball housing number for the next roulette game and determines, based on the prediction, a number group on which he/she wishes to bet medals (hereinafter also referred to as a “base desired number group”) and the number of medals to be bet on the number group (hereinafter also referred to as a “base desired medal number”). Thereafter, the player presses the panel or theframe border60bcorresponding to the base desired number group (hereinafter also referred to as a “base desired panel”) on thebet operation panel60. Thus, the base desired number group is inputted. On the panel or theframe border60bthat is pressed by the player, as shown inFIG. 5, abase chip71 is displayed. In a center of thebase chip71, a number is displayed, which indicates the total number of medals bet on the panel or theframe border60b. The number displayed on thebase chip71 is increased by the currently set number of medals to be bet as one unit every time the panel is pressed by the player. Specifically, the player allows the number displayed on thebase chip71 to coincide with the base desired medal number by pressing the base desired panel while accordingly changing the number of medals to be bet as one unit. Thus, the base desired medal number is inputted. For example, inFIG. 5, 10 medals are bet on the number group “28”. Note that the player can input a plurality of base desired number groups. In this case, the player also inputs the base desired medal number for each of the base desired number groups inputted.

Meanwhile, the player bets medals on the special game in the following manner. Specifically, while pressing the specialgame bet button64, the player predicts the ball housing number for each of three roulette games to be executed and determines, based on the prediction, three number groups on which he/she wishes to bet medals. Furthermore, the player determines the number of medals to be bet on the special game (hereinafter also referred to as a “special desired medal number”). Hereinafter, a number group determined for a first roulette game will also be referred to as a “first special desired number group”, a number group determined for a second roulette game will also be referred to as a “second special desired number group”, and a number group determined for a third roulette game will also be referred to as a “third special desired number group”. Note that the first roulette game is one first executed after the medals are bet on the special game, the second roulette game is one executed after the first roulette game, and the third roulette game is one executed after the second roulette game.

When the specialgame bet button64 is pressed by the player, the currently set number of medals to be bet as one unit is displayed in the special game betnumber display area63. The number displayed in the special game betnumber display area63 is increased by the currently set number of medals to be bet as one unit every time the specialgame bet button64 is pressed by the player. Specifically, the player allows the number displayed in the special game betnumber display area63 to coincide with the special desired medal number by pressing the specialgame bet button64 while accordingly changing the number of medals to be bet as one unit. Thus, the special desired medal number is inputted.

Meanwhile, the player presses the specialgame bet button64aafter pressing the specialgame bet button64 and presses the panel or theframe border60bcorresponding to the first special desired number group on thebet operation panel60. Thus, the first special desired number group is inputted. On the panel or theframe border60b, as shown inFIG. 5, aspecial chip72ais displayed.

Meanwhile, the player presses the specialgame bet button64bafter pressing the specialgame bet button64 and presses the panel or theframe border60bcorresponding to the second special desired number group on thebet operation panel60. Thus, the second special desired number group is inputted. On the panel or theframe border60b, as shown inFIG. 5, aspecial chip72bis displayed.

Meanwhile, the player presses the specialgame bet button64cafter pressing the specialgame bet button64 and presses the panel or theframe border60bcorresponding to the third special desired number group on thebet operation panel60. Thus, the third special desired number group is inputted. On the panel or theframe border60b, as shown inFIG. 5, aspecial chip72cis displayed. In the example shown inFIG. 5, 100 medals are bet on the special game. Moreover, thespecial chip72ais displayed on thestraight bet panel60ahaving “14” drawn thereon, thespecial chip72bis displayed on thecolumn bet panel60c, and thespecial chip72cis displayed on theeven bet panel60n.

In this way, each of the first to third special desired number groups is inputted by performing one bet operation (in other words, any one of the straight bet operation, the column bet operation, the dozen bet operation, the even bet operation, the split bet operation, the street bet operation, the corner bet operation, the five bet operation and the line bet operation). In the example described above, the first special desired number group is inputted by performing one “straight bet operation”, the second special desired number group is inputted by performing one “column bet operation”, and the third special desired number group is inputted by performing one “even bet operation”. Thus, the first to third special desired number groups are inputted by performing the three bet operations in total.

Next, a game flow will be described by taking, as an example, display screens shown inFIGS. 5 to 11. First, the player makes a bet shown inFIG. 5 before the bet time reaches “0”. Thereafter, a first roulette game is executed. When the ball housing number is set to “14” in this roulette game, a screen shown inFIG. 6 is displayed. As to the base game, since the number group inputted by the player does not include “14”, the number of medals to be paid back is set to “0”. Thus, “0” is displayed in the payback medalnumber display area67. As to the special game, since the number group inputted by the player, in other words, the first special desired number group includes “14”, the first special desired number group coincides with the ball housing number. Thus, “OK” is displayed in the determinationresult display area62c. Meanwhile, “14” is displayed in the resulthistory display unit65c. Thereafter, as shown inFIG. 7, thebase chip71 is deleted. Note that thespecial chips72ato72care not deleted.

Thereafter, since the bet time is restored to “20”, the player makes a bet shown inFIG. 8 before the bet time reaches “0”. InFIG. 8, the player bets10 medals on the number group including only “9” in the base game. Thereafter, a second roulette game is executed. When the ball housing number is set to “9” in this roulette game, a screen shown inFIG. 9 is displayed. As to the base game, since the number group inputted by the player includes “9”, the number of medals to be paid back is set to “350”. Therefore, “350” is displayed in the payback medalnumber display area67 and the total credit number is increased by this number. The increased total credit number is displayed in the creditnumber display unit68. As to the special game, since the number group inputted by the player, in other words, the second special desired number group includes “9”, the second special desired number group coincides with the ball housing number. Note that, in the case where the current point is set as a reference, the first roulette game turns out to be the second-last roulette game and the second roulette game turns out to be the first-last roulette game. Thus, “OK” is displayed in each of the determination

result display areas

62band62c. Meanwhile, “14” is displayed in the resulthistory display unit65band “9” is displayed in the resulthistory display unit65c. Thereafter, as shown inFIG. 10, thebase chip71 is deleted. Note that thespecial chips72ato72care not deleted.

Subsequently, the bet time is restored to “20”. However, in this example, the player makes no bet on the base game. Thereafter, a third roulette game is executed. When the ball housing number is set to “1” in this roulette game, a screen shown inFIG. 11 is displayed. As to the base game, since no bet is made on the base game by the player, the number of medals to be paid back is set to “0”. Thus, “0” is displayed in the payback medalnumber display area67. As to the special game, since the number group inputted by the player, in other words, the third special desired number group includes “1”, the third special desired number group coincides with the ball housing number. Note that, in the case where the current point is set as a reference, the first roulette game turns out to be the third-last roulette games, the second roulette game turns out to be the second-last roulette game and the third roulette game turns out to be at least one of the previous roulette games. Thus, “OK” is displayed in each of the determinationresult display areas62ato62c. Hence since all the first to third special desired number groups coincide with the ball housing number, medals are paid out.

The number of medals to be paid back is determined based on the number of medals bet on the special game by the player, a correspondence table to be described later and breakdown of the bet operations (specifically, how many of which bet operations are performed to input the first to third special desired number groups).

FIG. 12 is a block diagram showing an internal configuration of a roulette game machine according to this embodiment. As shown inFIG. 12, thegame machine1 includes theserver13, the plurality of (12 in this embodiment)stations4, theroulette device3 and theelectronic display unit5. The plurality ofstations4, theroulette device3 and theelectronic display unit5 are connected to theserver13. Note that an internal configuration of theroulette device3 and an internal configuration of each of thestations4 will be described in detail later. Aserver control CPU81 and aRAM83 constitute acontroller109.

Theserver13 includes theserver control CPU81 for controlling theentire server13, aROM82, theRAM83, atimer84, aliquid crystal display32 connected through a liquidcrystal driving circuit85, and akeyboard33.

Theserver control CPU81 performs various processing based on input signals supplied from therespective stations4 and data or programs stored in theROM82 and theRAM83. Moreover, based on the results of the processing, theserver control CPU81 transmits a command signal to each of thestations4. Thus, theserver control CPU81 mainly controls thestations4, individually. Particularly, theserver control CPU81 transmits a control signal to theroulette device3 and thus controls release of theball27 and rotation of theroulette wheel22.

TheROM82 is formed of, for example, a semiconductor memory or the like and stores a program for realizing basic functions of thegame machine1, a program for executing notification of time for maintenance as well as setting and management of notification conditions, a base payout rate (the number of credits to be paid out per 1 medal) used in a base game, a correspondence table used in a special game, a program for mainly controlling thestations4 individually, and the like.

Meanwhile, theRAM83 temporarily stores bet information supplied from all thestations4, a ball housing number in theroulette device3, which is determined by a sensor, the number of JP credits accumulated so far, data on the results of the processing executed by theserver control CPU81, and the like. Furthermore, thetimer84 for timing is connected to theserver control CPU81.

Moreover, the electronic display unit5 (seeFIG. 3) is connected to theserver control CPU81. Accordingly, an illumination effect is performed by controlling emission of an LED and the like. Moreover, predetermined characters and the like are displayed on theelectronic display unit5. Furthermore, the number of JP credits accumulated so far (the number of MEGA credits in this embodiment) is displayed, particularly, on the JPamount display unit15 in theelectronic display unit5.

FIG. 13 is a schematic view showing storage areas in theROM82. As shown inFIG. 13, the storage areas in theROM82 include a payoutcredit storage area82A for storing the base payout rate used in the base game and a correspondencetable storage area82B for storing the correspondence table used in the special game. As described above, the base payout rate varies according to the kind of the bet operation (for example, the straight bet operation).

FIG. 14 shows an example of the correspondence table. The correspondence table shows correspondence relationships among kinds of bet operations (denoted by A to I), special payout rates (payout amount data) and the number of the bet operations.

The bet operation A denotes the “straight bet operation”, the bet operation B denotes the “split bet operation” and the bet operation C denotes the “street bet operation”. The bet operation D denotes the “corner bet operation”, the bet operation E denotes the “five bet operation”, the bet operation F denotes the “line bet operation” and the bet operation G denotes the “column bet operation”. The bet operation H denotes the “dozen bet operation” and the bet operation I denotes the “even bet operation”.

According to the correspondence table, when all the first to third special desired number groups are inputted by performing the “straight bet operation”, three “straight bet operations” are performed. Thus, the special payout rate is set to “a”. Note that each of the special payout rate and the base payout rate is an integer of 1 or more. Meanwhile, when two of the first to third special desired number groups are inputted by performing the “straight bet operation” and the remaining one is inputted by performing the “street bet operation”, the special payout rate is set to “c”. Note that the special payout rate is determined, for example, in the following manner. Specifically, for each of the bet operations corresponding to the special payout rate, the base payout rate corresponding to the bet operation is multiplied by itself for the number of times equivalent to the number of the bet operations and the values thus obtained are multiplied. For example, as the special payout rate a, the base payout rate “35” corresponding to the “straight bet operation” is multiplied by itself for the number of times equivalent to the number of the “straight bet operations”, in other words, “3” to obtain “42875” (=35×35×35). Moreover, the special payout rate b is obtained in the following manner. Specifically, first, the base payout rate “35” corresponding to the “straight bet operation” is multiplied by itself for the number of times equivalent to the number of the “straight bet operations”, in other words, “2” to obtain “1225” (=35×35). Next, the base payout rate “17” corresponding to the “split bet operation” is multiplied by itself for the number of times equivalent to the number of the “split bet operations”, in other words, “1” to obtain “17”. Thereafter, the values “1225” and “17” thus obtained are multiplied to obtain “20825” (=35×35×17).

Theserver control CPU81 determines the special payout rate based on breakdown of the bet operations (specifically, how many of which bet operations are performed to input the first to third special desired number groups) and multiplies the determined special payout rate by the number of medals bet on the special game by the player to determine the number of medals to be paid out in the special game.

FIG. 15 is a schematic view showing storage areas in theRAM83. As shown inFIG. 15, the storage areas in theRAM83 include: a betinformation storage area83A for storing information on bets made by the player currently playing the game; a game outcomedata storage area83B for storing a ball housing number in theroulette device3, which is determined by theball sensor105; a “MINI” JPaccumulation storage area83C for storing the number of MINI credits; a “MAJOR” JPaccumulation storage area83D for storing the number of MAJOR credits; a “MEGA” JPaccumulation storage area83E for storing the number of MEGA credits; and a k andn storage area83F for storing integers k and m.

In the bet information storage area, kinds of thestations4 and the bet information are stored in association with each other. The bet information includes a base desired number group, a base desired medal number corresponding to the base desired number group, first to third special desired number groups and a special desired medal number. The first to third special desired number groups are game outcomes inputted for a plurality of roulette games, respectively. Thus, in theRAM83, the game outcomes inputted by use of thetouch panel50 for the plurality of roulette games, respectively, are stored in association with the respective roulette games. The ball housing numbers are stored in association with the plurality of roulette games. Specifically, an identification number is set for each of the roulette games, and the identification number and the ball housing number are stored in association with each other. Here, the ball housing number indicates the game outcome of the roulette game. Therefore, in theRAM83, actual game outcomes obtained from the plurality of roulette games, respectively, are stored in association with the plurality of roulette games. The integers k and n are used in the special game. An initial value of each of the integers k and n is “1” and is prepared for each of thestations4.

FIG. 16 is a block diagram showing the internal configuration of theroulette device3 according to this embodiment. As shown inFIG. 16, theroulette device3 includes aCPU101, aROM102, aRAM103, the pocketposition detection circuit107, the ball throw-indevice104, theball sensor105, thewheel driving motor106 and aball recovery unit108.

TheCPU101 controls release of theball27 and rotation of theroulette wheel22 based on the control signal supplied from theserver13 or data and programs stored in theROM102 and theRAM103.

FIG. 17 is a schematic view showing storage areas in theROM102. As shown inFIG. 17, a controldata storage area102A is provided in theROM102. In the controldata storage area102A, data required to control theroulette device3 is stored.

The pocketposition detection circuit107 includes the proximity sensor to detect a position of theroulette wheel22 based on whether or not the metal plates attached to theroulette wheel22 are detected. The pocketposition detection circuit107 outputs a detection signal associated with the detection result to theCPU101.

The ball throw-indevice104 is for throwing theball27 onto theroulette wheel22 from the ball throw-in slot36 (seeFIG. 2). Theball sensor105 is for determining a ball housing pocket. Thewheel driving motor106 rotates theroulette wheel22. Theball recovery unit108 recovers theball27 on theroulette wheel22 after the game is finished.

FIG. 18 is a block diagram showing the internal configuration of the station according to this embodiment. Note that the twelvestations4 basically have the same configuration. Thus, the following description is given by taking one of thestations4 as an example.

As shown inFIG. 18, thestation4 includes astation controller90 including astation control CPU91, aROM92 and aRAM93. TheROM92 is formed of, for example, a semiconductor memory or the like and stores a program for realizing basic functions of thestation4, various other programs required to control thestation4, a data table, and the like. Moreover, theRAM93 stores a total credit number, a base desired number group, a base desired medal number corresponding to the base desired number group, first to third special desired number groups and a special desired medal number. An initial value of the total credit number is “0”.

Moreover, aBET confirmation button47, apayback button48 and ahelp button49, which are provided in the control part7 (seeFIG. 3), are connected to each of the station controlsCPU91.

TheBET confirmation button47 is pressed to confirm a bet after a bet operation is performed by use of theimage display device8. Thepayback button48 is usually pressed when a game is finished. When thepayback button48 is pressed, medals equivalent to the total credit number are paid back from themedal payout opening9. Thehelp button49 is pressed when the player has questions about a method for operating the game and the like. When thehelp button49 is pressed, a help screen showing information on various operations is immediately displayed on theimage display device8.

In response to operation signals outputted by pressing or the like of the respective buttons, thestation control CPU91 performs control for executing various operations corresponding thereto. To be more specific, based on an input signal supplied from thecontrol part7 upon receipt of the operation by the player as well as the data and programs stored in theROM92 and theRAM93, thestation control CPU91 executes various processing and transmits results thereof to theserver control CPU81.

Moreover, thestation control CPU91 receives the command signal from theserver control CPU81, controls the peripheral devices included in thestation4 and thus allows the game to proceed at thestation4. Moreover, thestation control CPU91 executes various processing based on the input signal supplied from thecontrol part7 upon receipt of the operation by the player as well as the data and programs stored in theROM92 and theRAM93. Moreover, based on the results of the processing, thestation control CPU91 controls the peripheral devices included in thestation4 and allows the game to proceed.

Moreover, ahopper94 is connected to thestation control CPU91. Based on a command signal from thestation control CPU91, thehopper94 pays out a predetermined number of medals from the medal payout opening9 (seeFIG. 3).

Furthermore, theimage display device8 is connected to thestation control CPU91 through a liquidcrystal driving circuit95. The liquidcrystal driving circuit95 includes a program ROM, an image ROM, an image control CPU, a work RAM, a VDP (video display processor) and a video RAM. The program ROM stores an image control program concerning display on theimage display device8 and various selection tables. The image ROM stores, for example, dot data for forming an image to be displayed on theimage display device8. The image control CPU determines an image to be displayed on theimage display device8 out of the dot data previously stored in the image ROM according to the image control program previously stored in the program ROM based on parameters set by thestation control CPU91. The work RAM is configured to be a temporary storage device when the image control program is executed by the image control CPU. The VDP forms an image corresponding to display contents determined by the image control CPU and outputs the image to theimage display device8. Note that the video RAM is configured to be a temporary storage device when the image is formed by the VDP.

Moreover, thetouch panel50 is attached to the front surface of theimage display device8 as described above and information about operations on thetouch panel50 is transmitted to thestation control CPU91. The player inputs the base desired number group and the like by use of thetouch panel50 and theBET screen61. Thetouch panel50 transmits the inputted base desired number group and the like to thestation control CPU91. Thestation control CPU91 stores the received information in theRAM93 and transmits the stored information to theserver control CPU81. Theserver control CPU81 stores the information transmitted from thestation control CPU91 in the betinformation storage area83A in theRAM83.

Furthermore, asound output circuit96 and thespeaker10 are connected to thestation control CPU91. Thespeaker10 generates various sound effects when various effects are performed based on output signals from thesound output circuit96.

Moreover, amedal sensor97 is connected to thestation control CPU91. Themedal sensor97 detects medals inserted from the medal insertion slot6 (seeFIG. 3), calculates the inserted medals and transmits the calculation result to thestation control CPU91. Thestation control CPU91 increases the total credit number stored in theRAM93 based on the received signal.

Moreover, theWIN lamp11 is connected to thestation control CPU91. Thestation control CPU91 turns on theWIN lamp11 in a predetermined color when the base desired number group coincides with the ball housing number, when all the first to third special desired number groups coincide with an actual ball housing number and when a JP is won.

The processing performed by thegame machine1 is classified into two kinds of processing, including server side game processing executed by theserver control CPU81 included in thegame machine1 and station side game processing executed by thestation control CPU91.

With reference toFIGS. 19 to 21, description will be given of the server side game processing executed by theserver control CPU81 and the station side game processing executed by thestation control CPU91.FIGS. 19 to 21 are flowcharts showing the processing performed by thegame machine1 according to this embodiment.

First, with reference toFIGS. 19 and 20, the station side game processing will be described. In Step S11, thestation control CPU91 determines whether or not medals or coins are inserted by the player, based on the detection signal from themedal sensor97. Thestation control CPU91 advances to Step S11-1 if no medals or coins are inserted (Step S11: NO) and advances to Step S12 if medals or coins are inserted (Step S11: YES).

In Step S11-1, thestation control CPU91 determines whether or not a condition that the total credit number is 1 or more is satisfied. If the condition is satisfied, thestation control CPU91 advances to Step S13, and, if not, thestation control CPU91 advances to Step S11.

In Step S12, thestation control CPU91 increases the total credit number by the number of medals or coins inserted.

In Step S13, thestation control CPU91 transmits a medal detection signal to the effect that the total credit number is 1 or more.

In Step S14, thestation control CPU91 displays theBET screen61 on theimage display device8 at thestation4. Next, in Step S15, thestation control CPU91 starts counting bet time and accepting inputs made by use of thetouch panel50. The player who has joined the game inputs a base desired number group, a base desired medal number corresponding to the base desired number group, first to third special desired number groups and a special desired medal number by use of thetouch panel50 during the bet time. The inputted information is transmitted to thestation control CPU91 and thestation control CPU91 stores the received information as the bet information in theRAM93. Thereafter, thestation control CPU91 reduces the total credit number by the base desired medal number and the special desired medal number.

Thestation control CPU91 displays on theimage display device8 an image corresponding to the inputted information. For example, in the case where the base desired number group and the base desired medal number are inputted, theimage display device8 displays, under the control of thestation control CPU91, abase chip71 having the base desired medal number drawn thereon at a position corresponding to the base desired number group.

The player can also join in the middle of the game after the bet time starts. Up to 12 players can play with thegame machine1 according to this embodiment. Furthermore, if the current game is played subsequent to the previous game, acceptance of a bet operation is started immediately after the previous game is finished.

In Step S16, upon receipt of a bet time end signal to the effect that the bet time is over from theserver control CPU81, thestation control CPU91 displays an image indicating that the bet time is over on theimage display device8 at thestation4 and terminates the acceptance of inputs made by use of the touch panel50 (Step S17). Thereafter, thestation control CPU91 adds identification information for distinguishing the own station from theother stations4 to the bet information stored in theRAM93 and transmits the information to the server control CPU81 (Step S18).

Next, in Step S19, thestation control CPU91 receives from theserver13 determination results of JP bonus game determination processing to be described later, which is executed by theserver control CPU81. The JP bonus game determination results include: a result of determination of whether or not to execute a predetermined JP bonus game at eachstation4; a result of determination of whether or not to payout JP credits; a result of determination concerning to which one of the twelvestations4 the JP credits will be paid out; and a result of determination concerning which JP credits will be paid out.

Next, in Step S20 inFIG. 20, thestation control CPU91 determines whether or not to execute a JP bonus game based on the results of the JP bonus game determination processing, which are received in Step S19. If it is determined that the JP bonus game is to be executed, thestation control CPU91 advances to Step S21. On the other hand, if it is determined that the JP bonus game is not to be executed, thestation control CPU91 advances to Step S22.

In Step S21, thestation control CPU91 executes a predetermined selective JP bonus game associated with acquisition of a JP and displays the game outcome (whether or not the JP has been acquired, in other words, whether or not the JP credits are to be paid out) on theimage display device8 based on the determination results received in Step S19. Thereafter, thestation control CPU91 advances to Step S22.

In Step S22, thestation control CPU91 receives processing result information transmitted from theserver control CPU81. Note that the processing result information includes any of the number of medals to be paid out in the base game, the number of medals to be paid out in the special game and information on determination of whether or not the n-th special desired number group coincides with the current ball housing number (this information is generated in Step S112-3 or Step S112-4 to be described later).

Next, in Step S23, thestation control CPU91 pays out the medals based on the determination results received in Step S19 and the processing result information received in Step S22. To be more specific, thestation control CPU91 stores in theRAM93 the number of medals to be paid out in each of the base game and the special game and the number of JP credits to be paid out. At the same time, thestation control CPU91 adds the number of medals and the number of JP credits to the total credit number. When thepayback button48 is pressed, the medals equivalent to the total credit number are paid back from themedal payout opening9. Thereafter, thestation control CPU91 changes the display screen. For example, thestation control CPU91 deletes thebase chip71 and changes the contents displayed in the determinationresult display area62, the resulthistory display unit65 and the payback medal

number display areas

67 and70. Subsequently, thestation control CPU91 returns to Step S11.

Next, with reference toFIGS. 19 and 20, the server side game processing will be described. First, in Step S101, theserver control CPU81 stands by until the medal detection signal transmitted from thestation control CPU91 is received. If theserver control CPU81 receives the medal detection signal from any one of thestation control CPUs91, theserver control CPU81 advances to Step S102.

In Step S102, theserver control CPU81 starts counting the bet time once medals or coins are inserted by the player who has joined the game first. The bet time is time during which the player can make bets. The player who has joined the game can bet his/her own chips on a BET area72 corresponding to the number he/she predicts by operating thetouch panel50 during the bet time.

Next, in Step S103, theserver control CPU81 determines whether or not the bet time has 5 seconds to go. Note that the remaining bet time is displayed on the BET time display unit69 (seeFIG. 4). If it is determined that the remaining bet time does not reach 5 seconds, theserver control CPU81 returns the processing to Step S103. On the other hand, if it is determined that the bet time has 5 seconds to go, theserver control CPU81 advances the processing to Step S104.

In Step S104, theserver control CPU81 determines an identification number for a roulette game to be executed this time. Furthermore, theserver control CPU81 transmits to theCPU101 in the roulette device3 a control signal for allowing theroulette device3 to start its operations. Upon receipt of the control signal, theCPU101 rotates theroulette wheel22 and releases theball27 toward theroulette wheel22. Theroulette device3 stops theroulette wheel22 after certain time has passed since start of rotation of theroulette wheel22.

In Step S105, theserver control CPU81 determines whether or not the bet time is over. When it is determined that the bet time is not over, theserver control CPU81 waits for the bet time to be over.

Meanwhile, when it is determined that the bet time is over, theserver control CPU81 transmits to the station control CPU91abet time end signal indicating that the bet time is over (Step S106).

In Step S107, theserver control CPU81 receives information on a bet made by the player at each of thestations4 from thestation control CPU91 and stores the bet information in the betinformation storage area83A in theRAM83.

Next, in Step S108, based on the bet information stored in the betinformation storage area83A, theserver control CPU81 performs the following processing. Specifically, theserver control CPU81 obtains the base desired medal numbers at all thestations4 and adds up these numbers. Thereafter, theserver control CPU81 cumulatively adds the medal number equivalent to 0.30% of the value obtained as described above (hereinafter referred to as a “total medal number”) to the MINI credit number in theRAM83, cumulatively adds the medal number equivalent to 0.20% of the total medal number to the MAJOR credit number and cumulatively adds the medal number equivalent to 0.15% of the total medal number to the MEGA credit number. Moreover, theserver control CPU81 updates the display on the JPamount display unit15 based on the MEGA credit number. Furthermore, theserver control CPU81 transmits JP update information concerning the JP credit numbers to therespective stations4. Thestation control CPU91 updates the contents displayed in theMEGA display unit73, theMAJOR display unit74 and theMINI display unit75 based on the JP update information.

Next, in Step S109, theserver control CPU81 performs the JP bonus game determination processing. In this processing, theserver control CPU81 uses a random number sampled by a sampling circuit or the like to determine whether or not to execute a JP bonus game at each of thestations4. If the JP bonus game is to be executed, theserver control CPU81 determines whether or not to payout the JP credits. If it is determined that the JP credits are to be paid out, theserver control CPU81 determines at which one of the twelvestations4 the JP credits will be paid out and further determines which JP credits will be paid out.

Next, in Step S110, theserver control CPU81 transmits the result of the JP bonus game determination to each of thestations4 based on the processing in Step S109.

Thereafter, in Step S111 inFIG. 20, theserver control CPU81 drives theball sensor105 by transmitting a control signal to theroulette device3. Theball sensor105 detects a ball housing pocket and outputs a detection signal concerning the detection result to theserver control CPU81. Theserver control CPU81 determines a ball housing number based on the detection signal received from theball sensor105. Theserver control CPU81 stores, in the game outcomedata storage area83B, the ball housing number and the identification number determined in Step S104 so as to correspond to each other.

Next, theserver control CPU81 performs the processing from Step S112 to Step S116 for each of thestations4. The processing from Step S112 to Step S116 is performed for each of thestations4 based on information corresponding to each of thestations4 among the information stored in theRAM83. For example, the processing from Step S112 to Step S116 for one of thestations4 is performed based on information corresponding to thestation4 among the information stored in theRAM83.

In Step S112, theserver control CPU81 performs special game determination processing shown inFIG. 21. In this processing, theserver control CPU81 determines whether or not to payout medals in the special game, and the like.

In Step S113, theserver control CPU81 determines whether or not a condition that the base desired number group coincides with the current ball housing number is satisfied (more specifically, a condition that the ball housing number is included in the base desired number group). If the condition is satisfied, theserver control CPU81 advances to Step S114, and, if not, theserver control CPU81 advances to Step S115.

In Step S114, theserver control CPU81 determines a base payout rate based on the base desired number group and determines the number of medals to be paid out in the base game, multiplying the base desired medal number corresponding to the base desired number group by the determined base payout rate.

In Step S115, theserver control CPU81 sets the number of medals to be paid out in the base game to “0”.

Note that, if there is more than one base desired number group, theserver control CPU81 performs the processing from Step S113 to S115 for each of the base desired number groups. Thereafter, theserver control CPU81 determines the number of medals to be paid out in the base game by adding up the medal numbers obtained by each processing.

In Step S116, theserver control CPU81 outputs processing result information to thestation4. Here, the processing result information includes any of the number of medals to be paid out in the base game, the number of medals to be paid out in the special game and information on determination (this information is generated in Step S112-3 or Step S112-4 to be described later), which is determination of whether or not the n-th special desired number group coincides with the current ball housing number (in other words, the ball housing number in the roulette game executed by the server side game processing this time).

In Step S117, theserver control CPU81 recovers theball27. Thereafter, theserver control CPU81 terminates the server side game processing.

Next, with reference toFIG. 21, the special game determination processing will be described. In Step S112-1, theserver control CPU81 determines whether or not a condition that first to third special desired number groups exist (in other words, are stored in the RAM83) is satisfied. If the condition is satisfied, theserver control CPU81 advances to Step S112-2, and, if not, theserver control CPU81 terminates the special game determination processing.

In Step S112-2, theserver control CPU81 determines whether or not a condition that the n-th special desired number group coincides with the current ball housing number is satisfied (more specifically, a condition that the current ball housing number is included in the n-th special desired number group). If the condition is satisfied, theserver control CPU81 advances to Step S112-3, and, if not, theserver control CPU81 advances to Step S112-4.

In Step S112-3, theserver control CPU81 generates determination information to the effect that the n-th special desired number group coincides with the current ball housing number. Furthermore, theserver control CPU81 increases the value of k by 1.

In Step S112-4, theserver control CPU81 generates determination information to the effect that the n-th special desired number group does not coincide with the current ball housing number.

In Step S112-5, theserver control CPU81 increases the value of n by 1.

In Step S112-6, theserver control CPU81 determines whether or not a condition that the value of n is 3 is satisfied. If the condition is satisfied, theserver control CPU81 advances to Step S112-7, and, if not, theserver control CPU81 terminates the special game determination processing.

In Step S112-7, theserver control CPU81 determines whether or not a condition that the value of k is 3 is satisfied. If the condition is satisfied, theserver control CPU81 advances to Step S112-8, and, if not, theserver control CPU81 advances to Step S112-9.

In Step S112-8, since all the first to third special desired number groups coincide with the ball housing numbers related to the first to third special desired number groups, theserver control CPU81 determines the number of medals to be paid out in the special game based on breakdown of the bet operations, the correspondence table shown inFIG. 14 and the special desired medal number. To be more specific, theserver control CPU81 determines the breakdown of the bet operations based on the bet information and determines a special payout rate based on the determined breakdown of the bet operations and the correspondence table. Theserver control CPU81 determines the number of medals to be paid out in the special game by multiplying the determined special payout rate by the special desired medal number. Theserver control CPU81 restores the values of k and n to the initial values. Thereafter, theserver control CPU81 terminates the special game determination processing.

In Step S112-9, since any of the first to third special desired number groups does not coincide with the ball housing number related to the number group (in other words, the ball housing number is not included in the number group), theserver control CPU81 sets “0” as the number of medals to be paid out in the special game. Theserver control CPU81 restores the values of k and n to the initial values. Thereafter, theserver control CPU81 terminates the special game determination processing.

As described above, thegame machine1 provides the special game different from the base game. Thus, new entertainment properties are imparted.

Thegame machine1 has the following new entertainment properties. Specifically, for each of the plurality of roulette games, it is determined whether or not each of the game outcomes inputted coincides with the actual game outcome. Thereafter, medals are paid out based on the determination result. Particularly, in the special game, no medals are paid out if even one of the first to third special desired number groups does not coincide with the actual ball housing number. Thus, the player can enjoy the game more thrilling than the base game.

Furthermore, thegame machine1 determines the number of medals to be paid out in the special game based on the correspondence table. Thus, the number of medals can be quickly determined.

Modified Example 1

In Modified Example 1, first and second special desired number groups are inputted by the player and, when all of these number groups coincide with an actual ball housing number, medals are paid out. The effects described above can also be achieved in Modified Example 1.

Modified Example 2

In Modified Example 2, medals are paid out when two or more of first to third special desired number groups coincide with an actual ball housing number. In Modified Example 2, an effect that chances of paying out medals to the player are further increased can be achieved. Furthermore, Modified Example 2 has the following new entertainment properties. Specifically, the medals are paid out when two or more of the first to third special desired number groups coincide with the actual ball housing number.

Modified Example 3

In Modified Example 3, when all of first to third special desired number groups coincide with an actual ball housing number, the number of medals to be paid out in the special game is randomly determined. For example, thegame machine1 determines a special payout rate based on a random number and determines the number of medals to be paid out in the special game based on the special payout rate.

Modified Example 3 enables the player to have expectation and anxiety about how many medals he/she can get this time. As a result, the player's interest in the roulette game can be maintained. Furthermore, Modified Example 3 has the following new entertainment properties. Specifically, when all the first to third special desired number groups coincide with the actual ball housing number, the number of medals to be paid out in the special game is randomly determined.

Modified Example 4

In Modified Example 4, the number of medals to be paid out in the special game varies. Moreover, in Modified Example 4, when one or more of first to third special desired number groups coincide with an actual ball housing number, medals are paid out. For example, thegame machine1 sets the medal numbers for “MINI”, “MAJOR” and “MEGA”. When one of the first to third special desired number groups coincides with the actual ball housing number, medals equivalent to the medal number for “MINI” are paid out. When two of the first to third special desired number groups coincide with the actual ball housing number, medals equivalent to the medal number for “MAJOR” are paid out. When all of the first to third special desired number groups coincide with the actual ball housing number, medals equivalent to the medal number for “MEGA” are paid out. Here, as the relation among the medal numbers, the medal number for “MINI”<the medal number for “MAJOR”<the medal number for “MEGA” is established. The number of medals to be paid out in the special game may vary according to a certain rule (in addition to the above example, a conceivable rule is, for example, for paying out a predetermined % of the JP credit number (this value varies, for example, according to the number of groups that coincide with the actual ball housing number)), or may randomly vary.

Modified Example 4 enables the player to have expectation and anxiety about how many medals he/she can get this time. As a result, the player's interest in the roulette game can be maintained. Moreover, in Modified Example 4, an effect that chances of paying out medals to the player are further increased can be achieved. Furthermore, Modified Example 4 has the following new entertainment properties. Specifically, when one or more of the first to third special desired number groups coincide with the actual ball housing number, medals are paid out and the number of medals varies.

Although thegame machine1 and the method for controlling thegame machine1 according to the present invention have been described above based on the embodiment shown in the drawings, the present invention is not limited thereto. The configurations of the respective parts can be replaced by any configurations having similar functions. For example, the number of the special desired number groups may be set to be any number, rather than 3 or 2.

INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

The present invention is utilized in a field of gaming machines.

Claims

1. A game machine comprising:

a game execution device executing a unit game to obtain a game outcome from among predetermined game outcomes of the unit game;

an input device for inputting a predicted game outcome from among the predetermined game outcomes, before the unit game starts; and

a controller operable to:

a) control the game execution device to repeatedly execute the unit game;

b) store the predicted game outcomes for the plurality of unit games inputted by the input device, in association with the plurality of unit games, respectively;

c) store actual game outcomes obtained from the plurality of unit games, in association with the plurality of unit games, respectively;

d) determine, whether or not the predicted game outcome inputted by the input device coincides with the actual game outcome, for each of the plurality of unit games; and

e) provide an award based on the determination result.

2. A game machine comprising:

a roulette device executing a roulette game in which, while a roulette wheel including a plurality of pockets with respective numbers previously attached thereto is rotated, a ball is launched onto the roulette wheel and then is received in any one of the pockets afterward;

an input device for inputting a predicted game outcome from among predetermined game outcomes of the roulette game, before the roulette game starts; and

a controller operable to:

a) control the roulette device to repeatedly execute the roulette game;

b) store the predicted game outcomes of the plurality of roulette games inputted by the input device, in association with the plurality of roulette games, respectively;

c) store actual game outcomes obtained from the plurality of roulette games, in association with the plurality of roulette games, respectively;

d) determine, each of the plurality of roulette games, whether or not the predicted game outcome inputted by the input device coincides with the actual game outcome; and

e) provide an award based on the determination result.

3. A game machine comprising:

an input device for inputting, a predicted game outcomes from among predetermined game outcomes of the roulette game, before the roulette game starts;

a correspondence table showing a correspondence relationship between each of the predicted game outcomes inputted by the input device, and a data concerning levels of awards to be provided and a controller operable to:

a) control the roulette device to repeatedly execute the roulette game;

c) store actual game outcomes obtained from the plurality of roulette games in association with the plurality of roulette games, respectively;

d) determine whether or not the predicted game outcomes inputted by the input device coincide with the actual game outcomes for each of the plurality of roulette games;

e) determine an award to be provided based on the determination result and the correspondence table; and

f) provide the determined award.

4. A game machine comprising:

an input device for inputting, a predicted game outcomes from among predetermined game outcomes of the roulette game, before the roulette game starts; and

a controller operable to:

a) control the roulette device to repeatedly execute the roulette game;

b) store the predicted game outcomes of the plurality of roulette games inputted by the input device, in association with a plurality of the roulette games, respectively;

d) determine whether or not the predicted game outcome inputted by the input device coincides with the actual game outcome, for each of the plurality of roulette games;

e) randomly determine a level of an award to be provided based on the determination result; and

f) provide the determined award.

5. A method for controlling a game machine, comprising:

repeatedly executing a unit game to obtain a game outcome from among predetermined game outcomes;

enabling an input device to be used to input a predicted game outcome from among the predetermined game outcomes before the unit game starts;

storing the predicted game outcomes of the plurality of unit games inputted by the input device, in association with the plurality of unit games, respectively;

storing actual game outcomes obtained from the plurality of unit games in association with the plurality of unit games, respectively;

determining, whether or not the predicted game outcome inputted by the input device coincides with the actual game outcome, for each of the plurality of unit games; and

providing an award based on the determination result.

6. A method for controlling a game machine, comprising:

repeatedly executing a roulette game in which, while a roulette wheel including a plurality of pockets with respective numbers previously attached thereto is rotated, a ball is launched onto the roulette wheel and then is received in any one of the pockets afterward;

enabling an input device to be used to input a predicted game outcome from among predetermined game outcomes of the roulette game, before the roulette game starts;

storing the predicted game outcomes of the plurality of roulette games inputted by the input device, in association with the plurality of roulette games, respectively;

storing actual game outcomes respectively obtained from the plurality of roulette games, in association with the plurality of roulette games;

determining, for each of the plurality of roulette games, whether or not the predicted game outcome inputted by the input device coincides with the actual game outcome; and

providing an award based on the determination result.

7. A method for controlling a game machine, comprising:

storing the predicted game outcomes of the plurality of roulette games inputted by the input device in association with the plurality of roulette games, respectively;

storing actual game outcomes obtained from the plurality of roulette games in association with the plurality of roulette games, respectively;

determining whether or not the predicted game outcome inputted by the input device coincides with the actual game outcome, for each of the plurality of roulette games;

determining a level of an award to be provided based on the determination result and a correspondence table showing a correspondence relationship between each of the game outcomes inputted by use of the input device, and the level of the award to be provided; and

providing the determined award.

8. A method for controlling a game machine, comprising:

enabling an input device to be used to input a predicted game outcome from among predetermined game outcomes of the roulette game before the roulette game starts;

randomly determining a level of an award to be provided based on the determination result; and

providing the determined award.