JP2016123531A - Game system and game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game system and a game machine receiving a storage medium capable of specifying a valuable value possessed by a player and holding points to be used in the game machine for a game, and capable of improving convenience of the player using the storage media and giving consideration to security.SOLUTION: A coin (such as a member coin, a visitor coin, etc.) capable of specifying the coin balance and holding points, and a coin recognition substrate 331 reads out information stored in the coin via a reader-writer. A put-out control part 171 converts the balance read out from the coin into medal points, and stores them in a RAM. An authentication of the coin for making it possible to read out the coin balance and holding points from the coin is performed by a security substrate 335, and if a time clocked by a timer elapses a prescribed time, the authentication is cancelled.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 9

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming system including a gaming machine in which a game is played by a player, and a management device that is communicably connected to the gaming machine, and the gaming machine.

  Conventionally, in a gaming machine, a coin type IC card (IC coin) in which data corresponding to the amount of money is written is inserted in addition to a device configured to play a game by inserting medals necessary for betting. There is an apparatus (Patent Document 1) configured to play a game within the same number of ranges stored in an IC card. The coin-type IC card used in the gaming machine having the above configuration is lent out with a frequency written in accordance with the amount prepaid by the player. A player can play a game within the range of the written frequency without inserting a medal simply by inserting the lent coin-type IC card into the gaming machine.

  Also, in gaming machines, a configuration for lending gaming media using a prepaid card based on magnetic recording is widely used. However, since data is read by bringing a magnetic head into contact with the prepaid card, dirt, scratches, etc. There was a problem of being vulnerable to dust and the like. Therefore, instead of a prepaid card, a configuration has been proposed in which a game medium is lent using an IC coin in which the remaining amount of the prepaid is written on an IC chip (Patent Document 2).

Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 11-19330 JP 2004-141490 A

  Patent Document 1 and Patent Document 2 propose a configuration in which a prepaid balance is recorded on an IC coin, and a game is played using the prepaid balance. However, although a score may be obtained when a game is played in a gaming machine, Patent Document 1 and Patent Document 2 do not consider any score in relation to an IC coin. Furthermore, when reading the prepaid balance from the IC coin, security such as performing communication authentication with the IC coin is not considered.

  The present invention has been conceived in view of such circumstances, and its purpose is to accept a recording medium that can specify a player's possessed valuable value and a point used for a game on a gaming machine, and use the recording medium. It is an object of the present invention to provide a gaming system and a gaming machine capable of improving the convenience of a gaming machine player and considering security.

(1) The present invention relates to a gaming machine (for example, a slot machine without medals (S units 2S)) in which a game is played by a player, and a management device (for example, a management server 800) that is communicably connected to the gaming machine. A gaming system comprising:
The gaming machine is
Accepting means (for example, a member coin, a visitor coin) for receiving a recording medium (for example, a member coin, a visitor coin) that can specify a valuable value (for example, a coin balance) owned by a player and a score (for example, a score) used for a game in the gaming machine , Reader / writer)
Reading means for reading valuable information and points that can be specified from the recording medium received by the receiving means (for example, reading information recorded on a coin recognition board 331 on a coin via a reader / writer) ,
Conversion means (for example, the payout control unit 171 converts the balance read from coins into medal points) for converting the valuable value specified from the information read by the reading means into points;
A score storage means (for example, a RAM of the payout control unit 171 for storing medal points) for storing the score obtained from the conversion by the conversion means and the score specified by the information read by the reading means;
Valuable value subtracting means for subtracting the valuable value specified by the recording medium (for example, withdrawing the balance recorded in the inserted coin);
A point subtracting means for subtracting a point specified by the recording medium (for example, subtracting a point payout number from the coin insertion point (the number converted from a coin point to a medal point));
Stored score subtracting means for subtracting the score from the score storing means for use in a game (for example, the main control unit 161 adds 1 bet and subtracts 1 medal score);
Stored score adding means for adding the score obtained from the game result to the score storing means (for example, adding medal points paid out due to the occurrence of winning);
A score adding means for adding the score stored in the score storage means to a score specified by the recording medium (for example, adding a count game score to the coin-inserted score);
Authentication means (e.g., security board 335) for authenticating the recording medium for enabling the reading means to read information capable of specifying a valuable value and a point from the recording medium;
The authentication means cancels the authentication of the recording medium according to a predetermined condition (for example, the authentication of communication between the S unit 2S and the coin when the time counted by the timer elapses for a predetermined time) ).

  According to the above configuration, since the authentication of the recording medium is canceled according to the predetermined condition, the security is improved.

(2) Another configuration of the present invention is a gaming machine in which a game is played by a player (for example, a slot machine that does not require medals (S units 2S)),
Accepting means (for example, a reader / writer) for receiving a recording medium (for example, a member coin or a visitor coin) capable of specifying a valuable value (for example, a coin balance) owned by a player and a score (for example, a score) used for a game When,
Reading means for reading valuable information and points that can be specified from the recording medium received by the receiving means (for example, reading information recorded on a coin recognition board 331 on a coin via a reader / writer) ,
Conversion means (for example, the payout control unit 171 converts the balance read from coins into medal points) for converting the valuable value specified from the information read by the reading means into points;
A score storage means (for example, a RAM of the payout control unit 171 for storing medal points) for storing the score obtained from the conversion by the conversion means and the score specified by the information read by the reading means;
Valuable value subtracting means for subtracting the valuable value specified by the recording medium (for example, withdrawing the balance recorded in the inserted coin);
A point subtracting means for subtracting a point specified by the recording medium (for example, subtracting a point payout number from the coin insertion point (the number converted from a coin point to a medal point));
Stored score subtracting means for subtracting the score from the score storing means for use in a game (for example, the main control unit 161 adds 1 bet and subtracts 1 medal score);
Stored score adding means for adding the score obtained from the game result to the score storing means (for example, adding medal points paid out due to the occurrence of winning);
A score adding means for adding the score stored in the score storage means to a score specified by the recording medium (for example, adding a count game score to the coin-inserted score);
Authentication means (e.g., security board 335) for authenticating the recording medium for enabling the reading means to read information capable of specifying a valuable value and a point from the recording medium;
The authentication means cancels the authentication of the recording medium according to a predetermined condition (for example, the authentication of communication between the S unit 2S and the coin when the time counted by the timer elapses for a predetermined time) ).

  According to the above configuration, since the authentication of the recording medium is canceled according to the predetermined condition, the security is improved.

(3) In (1) above,
The authentication means further includes time-counting means (for example, a timer capable of measuring the game operating time is provided on the security board 335) for measuring the time during which the gaming machine is operating after the recording medium is authenticated. And
The canceling unit cancels the authentication of the recording medium when the predetermined time (for example, 5 hours) has elapsed as the predetermined condition (for example, step S628).

  According to the above configuration, since the authentication of the recording medium is canceled according to the predetermined condition, the security is improved.

(4) In the above (1) or (3),
The recording medium records specific information capable of specifying game hall identification information (for example, a store ID) of a game hall (for example, a store) where the recording medium lending device is installed,
The gaming machine is
A game hall identification information storage means (for example, the security board 335 stores the store ID in the RAM) for storing the game hall identification information for identifying the game hall in which the gaming machine is provided;
When the game hall identification information stored in the game hall identification information storage means matches the game hall identification information specified from the specific information recorded in the recording medium received by the reception means. (E.g., the security board 335 permits a game when the store ID stored in the RAM matches the store ID recorded in the accepted coin).

  According to the above configuration, a game using the recording medium is permitted only when the game hall identification information stored on the gaming machine side matches the game hall identification information recorded on the recording medium. As a result, the stores that can be played using the recording medium are limited to stores that are determined in advance, so that games using the recording medium in other stores can be prevented, and security can be improved. .

(5) In the above (1), (3), (4),
The recording medium stores information capable of specifying a recording medium authentication key (for example, a coin key) used for authentication of communication between the gaming machine and the recording medium,
The gaming machine is
Medium authentication key storage means for storing information capable of specifying a recording medium authentication key used for authentication of communication between the gaming machine and the recording medium (for example, the security board 335 stores a coin key in a RAM). When,
When authentication is possible based on the recording medium authentication key stored in the medium authentication key storage means and the recording medium authentication key specified from the information recorded on the recording medium received by the receiving means, Communication permission means for permitting communication between the gaming machine and the recording medium (for example, the CPU of the security board 335 can authenticate based on a coin key stored in the RAM and a coin key stored in the accepted coin. In this case, the communication between the S platform 2S and the coin is permitted.

  According to the above configuration, communication between the gaming machine and the recording medium is permitted only when authentication is possible based on the recording medium authentication key stored on the gaming machine side and the recording medium authentication key recorded on the recording medium. Is done. In other words, when authentication using the recording medium authentication key fails, the gaming machine and the recording medium cannot communicate with each other, so that a game using the recording medium becomes substantially impossible. Therefore, security can be further improved.

(6) In the above (1), (3) to (5),
The gaming machine is
Game control means (for example, main control board 16) for controlling a game in the gaming machine;
A score control means (for example, a payout control board 17) for controlling the score of the score storage means;
The recording medium stores information capable of specifying a control authentication key (for example, a control board key) used for authentication of communication between the game control unit and the holding point control unit,
The game control means is a control authentication key storage means for storing a control authentication key used for authentication of communication between the game control means and the holding point control means (for example, the main control board 16 has a control board key). Stored in RAM)
The holding point control means authenticates based on a control authentication key stored in the control authentication key storage means and a control authentication key specified from the information recorded on the recording medium received by the accepting means. When possible, control communication permission means for permitting communication between the game control means and the holding point control means (for example, the payout control board 17 is a control board key stored in the RAM of the main control board 16; The communication between the main control board 16 and the payout control board 17 is permitted when authentication is possible based on the control board key read from the received control board key and stored in the security board 335). Have.

  According to the above configuration, communication between the game control means and the point control means is performed only when authentication is possible based on the control authentication key stored on the gaming machine side and the control authentication key recorded on the recording medium. Allowed. In other words, when the authentication using the control authentication key fails, the game control means and the point control means cannot communicate, so that the game using the recording medium becomes substantially impossible. Therefore, security can be further improved.

(7) In the above (5) or (6),
The management apparatus updates the recording medium authentication key and the control authentication key that can be used for a predetermined period (for example, the history management center 800AF stores the hall server 801 in the store as shown in (10) in FIG. 4). In contrast, a coin key, a plurality of S 2S gaming machine IDs and control board keys installed in the store are notified)
The recording medium records a recording medium authentication key and a control authentication key that are used this time by updating, and a recording medium authentication key and a control authentication key that can be used by the next updating (for example, the coin lending machine 333 updates The coin key and control board key of the day (May 1) and the coin key and control board key of the next day (May 2) of the update day are written in the coin).

  According to the above configuration, the recording medium authentication key and control authentication key used this time and the recording medium authentication key and control authentication key that can be used by the next update are recorded on the recording medium and lent out. Therefore, even if the recording medium lending machine goes offline, the recording medium can be used and the store business can be continued. In addition, since the recording medium can be taken home and used on the next day, the convenience of the player is improved.

It is a front view showing a slot machine. It is a figure which shows the symbol arranged on the reel. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of a slot machine. It is a figure for demonstrating the flow until the game by S player becomes possible using the coin with which the player paid out with the coin lending machine. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the communication authentication process of S units | sets and a coin. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the authentication process of communication with the main control board and the payout control board. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the process for permitting a game. It is a figure for demonstrating the update timing of each control board key of S units, a coin lending machine, and a coin. The flowchart for demonstrating authentication timing processing is shown. It is a schematic diagram which shows the main thing among the various data memorize | stored in each of the coin recognition board | substrate side which received the coin, and the payment control board | substrate side, and its transmission / reception aspect. It is a figure which shows an example of the process by the coin recognition board | substrate at the time of coin insertion, and the payout control board. It is a figure for demonstrating the process of the authentication sequence in communication with the coin side and SC. It is a figure for demonstrating the process of the authentication sequence in communication with a payout control board and a main control board. It is a front view which shows the unit and slot machine of a modification. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the unit and slot machine of a modification. It is a block diagram which shows a structure with the slot machine of another modification.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
<Configuration of slot machine>
FIG. 1 is a front view showing a slot machine as an example of a gaming machine.

  With reference to FIG. 1, a slot machine (hereinafter abbreviated as “S”) 2 </ b> S is attached to each of the gaming islands (not shown) arranged in the game hall.

  Inside the S platform 2S, reels 2L, 2C, and 2R (hereinafter also referred to as a left reel, a middle reel, and a right reel) in which a plurality of types of symbols are arranged on the outer periphery are juxtaposed in the horizontal direction. As shown in FIG. 4, the three consecutive symbols out of the symbols arranged on the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R are arranged so as to be seen from the see-through window 10.

  FIG. 2 is a diagram showing symbols arranged on the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R. As shown in FIG. 2, the outer periphery of each of the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R is “black 7”, “net 7 (shaded 7 in the figure)”, “white 7”, “BAR”, “replay”, A plurality of identifiable symbols such as “watermelon”, “black cherry”, “white cherry”, “bell”, and “orange” are drawn in a predetermined order, 21 pieces each. The symbols drawn on the outer peripheries of the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R are displayed in the upper, middle, and lower three stages in the see-through window 10, respectively.

  The reels 2L, 2C, and 2R are rotated by reel motors 32L, 32C, and 32R (see FIG. 3) respectively provided correspondingly. Thereby, the symbols of the reels 2L, 2C, 2R are displayed in the see-through window 10 while changing continuously. Further, by stopping the rotation of the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R, three continuous symbols are derived and displayed as display results on the fluoroscopic window 10.

  Inside the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R, reel sensors 33L, 33C, and 33R (see FIG. 3) for detecting a reference position for each of the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R and the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R from the back A reel LED (not shown) for irradiation is provided. The reel LED is composed of 12 LEDs corresponding to three consecutive symbols of the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R, and each symbol can be irradiated independently.

  An inclined surface 14 that gently slopes from the back to the near side from a predetermined position below the fluoroscopic window 10 is formed, and an operation portion 9 is formed so as to protrude further to the near side. A 1BET switch 5, a MAXBET switch 6, a medal point use switch 12, and a coin insertion slot 13 are provided on the upper surface of the operation unit 9, and a start switch 7 (start lever), a stop switch 8L, 8C and 8R, a lending switch 321, a score switch 324, a replay switch 319, a credit settlement switch 11a, and a medal point settlement switch 11b are provided. The coin insertion slot 13 is used by a player to insert coins, which will be described later. The coin insertion board 331 (see FIG. 3) indicates that a coin is inserted when an insertion instruction display unit (not shown) is lit. Is detected, the balance and the points recorded on the coin are specified, and the operation of the lending switch 321, the point switch 324, etc. becomes possible.

  A first indicator 54 is attached to the inclined surface 14. The display surface of the first display 54 is inclined in the depth direction when viewed from the front, and the first display 54 having a large screen size can be attached by effectively utilizing the depth direction. Further, since the screen is inclined, there is an effect that the player can easily see the screen. The first display 54 is a touch panel type liquid crystal display device. On the display screen of the first display 54, a touch panel (not shown) for detecting an instruction (for example, a touch operation) from a player on the display surface and specifying the position (for example, a position where the touch operation is performed). Is provided. The first display 54 displays the number of medals set in the game, the number of medals earned when a winning occurs, and various other information.

  A second display 55 is provided below the operation unit 9. Similarly to the first display 54, the second display 55 employs a touch panel type liquid crystal display device. In the case of a medal payout type slot machine in which a game is performed using medals, a front panel on which a design such as a character of that model is applied is attached to a location corresponding to the second display 55. In addition to the characters displayed on the front panel, the second display 55 displays various information such as explanation of winning combinations of the model, game method, or strategy information.

  The S platform 2S is a visitor coin (also referred to as a general coin) having a prepaid function, which is a game recording medium issued to a general player who has not registered as a member, and a member game registered as a member in the playground. A member coin, which is a game recording medium issued to a user, is accepted by inserting it into the coin insertion slot 13. Visitor coins and member coins are constituted by coin-type cards in which ICs are embedded. Member coins and visitor coins inserted into the coin insertion slot 13 are received by a reader / writer (not shown), and information recorded on the coins is read by the coin recognition board 331 (see FIG. 3) via the reader / writer. . The coin record information includes a coin ID, a store ID, a coin key, a game table ID, and a control board key. Here, the coin ID is identification information for identifying the coin ID, and one ID is given to one coin. The store ID (unified store code) is identification information for specifying a store where coins can be used, and may be an ID indicating one store or an ID indicating a store group. The coin key is a secret key used for authentication of a lent coin and communication between the S units 2S. The game table ID is identification information for identifying a game table installed in a store, and one ID is assigned to one game table. The control board key is an authentication key used for authentication of communication between the main control board 16 and the payout control board 17. When a player plays a game on the S platform 2S using a coin, the lent coin is inserted into the coin insertion slot 13 shown in FIG. When a coin is inserted into the coin insertion slot 13, the S platform 2S accepts the coin, and the coin recognition board 331 (security board 335) authenticates communication between the S platform 2S and the coin based on the coin key. When the authentication of the communication between the S unit 2S and the coin is successful, the coin recording information read by the coin recognition board 331 (coin ID, store ID, coin key, game machine ID, control board key, balance, points, etc.) ) Is stored in the RAM of the payout control unit 171. The payout control unit 171 stores the coin ID read by the coin recognition board 331 and the control board key until the game ends. On the contrary, the coin recognition board 331 receives the data to be written in the inserted coin (updated balance, updated score, etc.) from the payout control unit 171, and sends the data to the reader / writer. Write in coins that are inserted through. In this embodiment, an example in which a coin is inserted into the coin insertion slot 13 has been described. However, a rectangular card with an IC embedded in the card insertion slot instead of the coin insertion slot 13 is used as a card insertion slot. The structure etc. to insert may be sufficient.

  The S platform 2S that has received the coin has a function of converting a game value (for example, a balance, a score, a stored medal, etc.) owned by the player specified by the record information of the coin into “medal points”. Specifically, the payout control unit 171 converts all or a part of the balance read from the coins into medal points at a predetermined exchange rate and stores them in the RAM. When the game value read from the coin is a score or a stored medal, the read score or stored medal is stored in the RAM of the payout control unit 171 as a medal point. That is, when the points read from the coins are used as medal points, the points read from the coins are simply replaced with the points stored in the S unit 2S. In the S platform 2S, a game is played using credits converted from medal points. However, in the S unit 2S, when there is no credit and no bet amount is set, the bet number is directly set using the medal points and the game is played. In addition, the conversion from medal points to credits includes a case where medal points are simply stored as credit points.

  In the present embodiment, the space of the structure part related to the medal payout which has become unnecessary by adopting the scoring system instead of the medal payout method is effectively used, and the second indicator 55 is provided on the front panel part, The second indicator 55 may be provided at any location other than the illustrated position. For example, the second display 55 may be provided between the upper speakers 52 and 53. Here, the medal payout type slot machine is a conventional slot machine in which a physically existing medal is inserted into the slot machine to set a bet number, and a medal is paid out when a winning occurs. . Therefore, in the case of a medal payout type slot machine, it is necessary to provide a hopper for paying out medals within the housing. On the other hand, a scoring type slot machine is a gaming machine in which a bet number is set using a virtual medal point instead of a physically existing medal, and a medal point is added when a winning occurs. Therefore, the scoring type S stand 2S that does not pay out medals does not require a hopper, and it is not necessary to provide a medal insertion slot or a medal payout slot on the front side. Therefore, there is no need to provide a flow path structure for guiding medals from the medal insertion port to the hopper or from the hopper to the medal payout port.

  Various operation means provided in the operation unit 9 will be described. The one-sheet BET switch 5 is a switch operated when setting a bet amount using “credit = 1” corresponding to one medal. The MAXBET switch 6 has a maximum bet number determined according to the gaming state (for example, “credit = 3” in the normal gaming state before the occurrence of BB and RT (Replay Time) in which the winning probability of replay is high) This is a switch operated when setting “credit = 2” in the bonus.

  The start switch 7 is a switch for starting rotation of the reel after setting the betting amount. The stop switches 8L, 8C, and 8R are switches for stopping the rotating reel, and 8L corresponds to the left reel, 8C corresponds to the middle reel, and 8R corresponds to the right reel.

  The medal point use switch 12 is a switch operated when using medal points. The credit settlement switch 11a is a switch operated when counting credits and converting them into medal points. The medal point adjustment switch 11b is a switch operated when counting medal points and converting them into points. Every time the score stored in the RAM of the payout control unit 171 is updated, the record of the inserted coin is also updated. However, instead of this, when the medal points are counted and converted into points, the points stored in the RAM of the payout control unit 171 are only updated and not recorded on the inserted coins, which will be described later. The coin inserted when the return switch 322 is pressed may be recorded.

  A lending switch 321 and a return switch 322 are further provided on the front side surface of the operation unit 9. The lending switch 321 is a switch that performs an operation (conversion operation to medal points) for deducting the balance recorded in the inserted coins to obtain medal points. The return switch 322 is operated when the player finishes the game, and the determined number of points at the end of the game (the number of points at the time of coin insertion-from the points to the medal points (game points)) when the player finishes the game. This is an operation switch for storing and discharging the conversion number + the number of points counted by the settlement operation). By operating the return switch 322, the inserted coins may be discharged from the coin insertion slot 13, but the coins inserted from the return opening (not shown) provided at the bottom of the S platform 2S are discharged. Also good.

  When the score switch 324 is operated, a part or all of the score recorded on the inserted coin is withdrawn and converted into medal points. Note that when a coin is inserted, some or all of the points recorded on the coin may be automatically converted into medal points.

  When the replay switch 319 is operated, a part of the stored medals recorded in the hall management computer or the like is withdrawn and converted into medal points.

  Here, “medal points” are data that can be used for setting the number of bets and can be converted into “credits” and “points”. The “medal points” are generated in exchange for withdrawing coin balances, points, or accumulated medals.

  “Position” is obtained by counting and converting the number of medals owned by the player as a result of the player playing the game with the gaming machine. This “score” is recorded so as to be specified by the player's coin. In addition, you may manage the number of points with the management apparatus for number-of-points management set to the game hall.

  A “stored medal” is a point that has been deposited in the game hall. The points earned by the player in the game are managed as points during the day, but are managed as “stored medals” after the next day. That is, the medal score acquired and counted by the player on the day of the game hall is referred to as “score”, and the score acquired by the player before the previous day and deposited in the game hall is referred to as “stored medal”. This “stored medal” is generally managed by a hall management computer or other management computer installed in the game hall.

  The conversion possible direction of each of the above balances, accumulated medals, points, medal points, and credits is indicated by an arrow: “[balance, accumulated medals, points] → [medals] "Point"-> "Credit"-> "Medal Points"-> "Points"-> "Stored Medal". For this reason, for example, direct conversion between “balance, stored medals, points” and “credit” is not possible. In addition, the configuration may be such that the bet amount is set directly from “medal points” without providing “credit”.

  In this embodiment, the stored medal data is not recorded directly on the member coin, but stored in the upper server such as the hall management computer in association with the member coin number so that the corresponding stored medal can be searched based on the member coin number. It is configured. On the other hand, the score is recorded directly on the coin.

  However, both may be stored in the upper server in association with the coin number. In the case of a visitor coin, the score is recorded directly on the visitor coin. However, the score may be stored in the upper server in association with the coin number. When the upper server stores the data in association with the coin number, data that can specify the time stored in the upper server may be written in the coin (member coin, visitor coin) and discharged. Further, the prepaid balance is directly written in coins (member coins, visitor coins) and discharged. However, the prepaid balance may not be directly recorded on the coin but may be stored in association with the member coin number in a higher-level server such as a hall management computer. In this case, the prepaid balance is specified based on the member coin number of the coin.

  In addition, the timing which memorize | stores a score in a coin (member coin, visitor coin) or a high-order server is a timing when the medal point adjustment switch 11b is operated and a counting process is performed, for example. However, instead of this, when coins are returned, they may be recorded collectively. Coins may be limited to stores or store groups that can be used. For example, key information (such as a unified store code) that can be used for coins is stored, and when the coin is inserted into the S unit 2S, it matches the key information (such as a unified store code) stored in advance in the S unit 2S. Or whether or not a predetermined relationship (same store group or the like) may be made possible.

  As described above, according to the S stand 2S according to the present embodiment, medal points are awarded using the points specified by coins, the medal points are converted into credits, and further credits are used. Because it is possible to set the number of bets, games that are used to traditional slot machines that receive medals, insert the medals, secure credits, and set the number of bets using the credits. A game with a new slot machine that does not use medals can be provided without causing confusion to the player.

  Next, the flow of the game on the S platform 2S will be described. When a game is played on the S platform 2S, first, medal points are secured from coins (member coins, visitor coins) inserted into the coin insertion slot 13. The operation of securing the medal points by operating the lending switch 321 or the holding point switch 324 is an operation corresponding to receiving an actual medal in the medal payout type slot machine. That is, an actual medal lent out in a medal payout slot machine corresponds to a medal point in the present embodiment.

  In order to set the bet number using the medal points, the medal point use switch 12 is pressed once. Then, the main control unit 161 adds one bet and subtracts one medal point. When the medal point use switch 12 is further operated after the betting number reaches the upper limit, the medal point is decremented by 1 and the credit is incremented by 1 each time the operation is performed.

  In the present embodiment, the upper limit of medal points and credits is determined. Up to 100,000 medal points and 50 credits can be held, and the medal point use switch 12 is turned on after the number of credits reaches 50. The number of credits and medal points do not change when pressed. The upper limit of credit is set to 50 so that a player who is accustomed to the old slot machine can play a game without confusion, and the upper limit of credit need not be provided.

  When the 1BET switch 5 is operated in the presence of credits, one bet is added and 1 credit is subtracted. Further, when the MAXBET switch 6 is operated in the presence of credit, the additional setting is made so that the bet number becomes the maximum in the credit range, and the credit is subtracted by the additional setting.

  When the bet number is set, the pay line determined according to the bet number and the game state is valid among the pay lines L1 to L5, and the operation of the start switch 7 is valid, that is, the game can be started. It becomes.

  Here, the winning line is a line that is set in order to determine whether the combination of symbols displayed on the see-through window 10 of each reel 2L, 2C, 2R is a winning symbol combination. In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1, a winning line L1 set across the symbols arranged in the middle stage of each reel 2L, 2C, 2R and the symbols arranged in the upper stage of each reel 2L, 2C, 2R are displayed. The winning line L2 set across the reels 2L, 2C and 2R, the winning line L3 set over the lower symbols, the upper stage of the reel 2L, the middle stage of the reel 2C, the lower stage of the reel 2R, that is, lower right There are 5 types of winning lines L4 set across straddling symbols, the lower line of reel 2L, the middle part of reel 2C, the upper part of reel 2R, that is, the winning line L5 set straddling the symbols lined up to the right It is defined as a line. The winning line is not limited to the lines indicated by L1 to L5 but may be other lines.

  When the start switch 7 is operated in a state where the game can be started, the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R rotate, and the symbols of the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R continuously vary. When any one of the stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R is operated in this state, the rotation of the corresponding reels 2L, 2C, 2R is stopped, and the display result is derived and displayed on the fluoroscopic window 10.

  When all reels 2L, 2C, and 2R are stopped, one game is completed, and a predetermined combination of symbols is displayed on each of the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R on any of the activated pay lines L1 to L5. If it stops as a result, a winning will occur.

  When a winning occurs, a score determined according to the winning is given to the player. This score is added to the credit until the credit reaches the upper limit. After the credit reaches the upper limit, it is added to the medal points. In the present embodiment, since the score addition operation is performed in such a manner, an operation corresponding to the operation of the medal payout type slot machine that performs credit addition until the upper limit value is reached and then pays out medals can be realized. .

  A part or all of the credits can be counted and converted into medal points by operating the credit settlement switch 11a. By converting to medal points, it becomes possible to receive a medal point sharing process in which a part of medal points is distributed to other players and a wagon service in which medal points can be exchanged for juice or the like.

  When the credit settlement switch 11a is pressed and held (for example, an operation for 3 seconds or more), all credits are counted and converted into medal points. On the other hand, when the credit settlement switch 11a is operated for a time shorter than the long press operation detection time (hereinafter referred to as "short press operation"), only one credit is counted in one operation, and one medal point is obtained. Is converted to Note that two or more points may be counted in one short press operation.

  By operating the medal point adjustment switch 11b, some or all of the medal points can be counted and converted into points. By converting into points, the points can be recorded in coins (member coins, visitor coins) at the end of the game.

  When the medal point adjustment switch 11b is pressed and held (for example, an operation for 3 seconds or more), all medal points are counted and converted into points. On the other hand, if the medal point settlement switch 11b is operated for a time that is less than the detection time of the long press operation (hereinafter referred to as “short press operation”), only one medal point is counted and held in one operation. Converted to one point. Note that two or more points may be counted in one short press operation.

<Relationship between slot machine, hall server and machine history management center>
FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the S unit 2S, the hall server 801, and the machine history management center 800AF. With reference to FIG. 3, the outline of the control circuit of the S stand 2S will be described.

  In the S platform 2S, a main control board 16 that controls the progress of the game of the S platform 2S, a payout control board 17 that stores medal points and credits, and reads the balance and holding points from the received coins and converts them into medal points. Coin recognition board 331, first display 54, second display 55, various operation switches, reel motors 32L, 32C, 32R for driving each reel 4L, 4C, 4R, and each reel 4L , 4C, 4R are provided with reel sensors 33L, 33C, 33R, speakers 52, 53, and the like.

  Both the first display 54 and the second display 55 are displayed by a display control unit (not shown) provided on the S platform 2S.

  The main control board 16 is equipped with a game control microcomputer as the main control unit 161. The main control unit 161 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) as a control center, a ROM (Read Only Memory) that stores programs and control data for operating the CPU, and a RAM (Random) that functions as a work area for the CPU. Access Memory), and an input / output interface for maintaining signal consistency with peripheral devices.

  The main control unit 161 receives detection signals from the single BET switch 5, the MAXBET switch 6, the start switch 7, the stop switches 8L, 8C, and 8R, the reel sensors 33L, 33C, and 33R, and the setting switch 56.

  Furthermore, the medal point use switch 12, the credit settlement switch 11a, and the medal point settlement switch 11b are connected to the main control unit 161. The main control unit 161 receives detection signals from the medal point use switch 12, credit settlement switch 11a, and medal point settlement switch 11b. The main control unit 161 transmits these detection signals to the payout control unit 171.

  The setting switch 56 is provided inside the S base 2S so that an operator cannot operate it by opening the front door of the S base 2S using a key. By operating this setting switch 56, it is possible to set whether or not to automatically settle after the big bonus and whether or not to stop after the big bonus.

  The automatic settlement after the big bonus is a function that automatically converts all credits into medals when the big bonus ends, and further automatically converts all medals into points. The difference from the stop function is that the same player is allowed to play again after automatic payment. A player who wants to play the game again may obtain medal points by dropping points. By turning on such an automatic payment function, it is possible to show the player a break in the game and give the player an opportunity to finish the game on the stand.

  Stopping after the big bonus means that after the big bonus ends, the stand is put into a game prohibition state in which a game cannot be played. In the present embodiment, the automatic settlement after the end of the big bonus is over, and after the player's coins are discharged, the player enters a stopped state. By turning this stop function ON, it is possible to prohibit the player from continuing to play on the same table after the end of the big bonus.

  The stop state can be released by operating the setting switch 56. When the clerk performs an operation of releasing the stop by operating the setting switch 56 of the S platform 2S, the signal is input to the main control unit 161. Then, the main control unit 161 releases the hit state (game prohibition state) and transmits a signal notifying the release to the payout control unit 171. Upon receiving this, the payout control unit 171 can accept coins again. In addition, you may provide the cancellation | release operation switch for performing cancellation | release operation of a striking state separately in S stand 2S.

  When the detection signal is input from the start switch 7, the main controller 161 rotates the reel motors 32L, 32C, and 32R and draws a winning combination.

  The type of winning combination is determined according to the gaming state, and can be broadly divided into a special combination with a shift to a big bonus (BB) and a regular bonus (RB), a small combination with a medal payout, There is a replay player (replay) that allows the next game to be started without the need to set the number of bets.

  The main control unit 161 draws a winning combination, rotates the reels, and waits for a reel stop operation by the player. When any one of the stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R is operated, the main control unit 161 stops the rotation of the reels corresponding to the stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R. The maximum stop delay time from the operation of the stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R to the stop of the rotation of the corresponding reels 2L, 2C, 2R is 190 ms (milliseconds).

  The reels 2L, 2C and 2R rotate 80 times per minute, and 80 × 21 (the number of symbols per reel) = 1680 frames, so the maximum of 4 symbols is drawn in 190 ms. Will be able to. In other words, the symbols that can be selected as the stop symbols are the symbols that are displayed when the stop switches 8L, 8C, and 8R are operated, and the symbols that are four frames ahead of them, for a total of five symbols.

  For this reason, for example, when any of the stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R is operated and the symbol displayed on the lower stage of the reel corresponding to the stop switch is used as a reference, the symbol from the symbol to four frames ahead Since the symbols can be displayed in the lower row, as a result, the symbols from the symbol to six frames ahead can be displayed in the upper row. That is, in each of the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R, when any one of the stop switches 8L, 8C, and 8R is operated, within 7 frames including the symbols displayed on the lower row of the reel corresponding to the stop switch. The arranged symbols can be drawn and stopped on the winning line. Such reel control is referred to as pull-in control.

  In this way, the main control unit 161 draws in the symbol corresponding to the winning combination if there is a symbol corresponding to the winning combination in the predetermined frame number range on the basis of the stop operation time, and performs control to draw in another symbol if not. Stop the symbol and determine if there is a prize. When it is determined that the main control unit 161 has won, the main control unit 161 gives the player a score corresponding to the type of winning as a credit or medal point.

  The main control unit 161 outputs a medal payout sound from the speakers 52 and 53 when adding medal points. Further, when the medal point use switch 12 is operated and the medal points are subtracted, a medal insertion sound is output from the speakers 52 and 53. In addition, when the medal point settlement switch 11b is operated and the medal points are counted, the main control unit 161 outputs the medal settlement sound (counting sound) from the speakers 52 and 53. These payout sound, throw-in sound, and adjustment sound are, for example, one sound is output with respect to fluctuation of one medal point. As a result, it is possible to give the player a feeling as if medals are being inserted, paid out and settled while using the data of points.

  The payout control board 17 is equipped with a payout control microcomputer which is a payout control unit 171. The payout control unit 171 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) as a control center, a ROM (Read Only Memory) that stores programs for operating the CPU, control data, and the like, and a RAM (Random) that functions as a work area for the CPU. Access Memory), and an input / output interface for maintaining signal consistency with peripheral devices.

  A coin recognition board 331, a replay switch 319, a lending switch 321, a return switch 322, and a point switch 324 are connected to the payout control unit 171. The payout control unit 171 controls the coin recognition board 331 to read the recorded information from the inserted coins and write information to the coins.

  The payout control unit 171 stores medal points and credits, and further stores the number of points added for the adjustment of medal points. From the main control unit 161 to the payout control unit 171, a one-sheet BET switch 5, MAXBET switch 6, medal point use switch 12, credit settlement switch 11 a, medal point settlement switch 11 b, replay switch 319, lending switch 321, return switch 322 Information indicating the operation of the operating means such as the holding point switch 324 is transmitted. Further, information indicating a gaming state (reel rotation start, reel stop, winning occurrence, end of big bonus, etc.) is also transmitted from the main control unit 161 to the payout control unit 171.

  The payout control unit 171 subtracts medal points and adds credits based on a detection signal input from the medal point use switch 12 via the main control unit 161, or subtracts medal points to the main control unit 161. Information for instructing the betting amount setting is transmitted. The payout control unit 171 subtracts credits and adds medal points based on the detection signal input from the credit settlement switch 11a via the main control unit 161. The payout control unit 171 subtracts the medal points based on the detection signal input from the medal point adjustment switch 11b via the main control unit 161, and adds the amount to the score.

  The coin recognition board 331 is provided with a security board 335 for controlling authentication of communication between the accepted coin and the S platform 2S (in particular, the coin recognition board 331). The security board 335 includes a communication control IC (not shown) for controlling communication between the received coin and the S unit 2S, and a security chip (SC) (not shown) for monitoring the security of the S unit 2S. Is provided.

  The S platform 2S is provided with an external connection terminal 332 for communicating with the hall server 801 and the history management center 800AF. The external connection terminal 332 communicates with the hall server 801 installed in the hall and the machine history management center 800AF outside the hall via a T-BOX (terminal box) 400 which is a communication control device.

  The T-BOX 400 and the machine history management center 800AF are connected via the Internet. The machine history management center 800AF is a device for registering various types of information on the coin lending machine 333 and the S unit 2S as described later, and managing history information (machine history information) from shipment to disposal. The T-BOX 400 may be connected to a management server (not shown) that stores model-related information and collects various game data of the player received from the payout control board 17. The history management center 800AF and the hall server 801 may be configured to include the function of the management server.

  The main control unit 161 may transmit balance usage information that can specify the usage amount of the balance associated with the lending operation to the management server. The main control unit 161 may transmit the point use information that can specify the number of points used associated with the point use operation to the management server. The main control unit 161 may transmit, to the management server, stored medal usage information that can specify the number of used medal used in accordance with the stored medal usage operation.

<Game system including coin lending machine>
This includes the registration of the coin lending machine 333 for lending coins to the player and the registration of the S unit 2S, and the flow until the player can play the game on the S unit 2S using the coins lent from the coin lending machine 333. Will be described.

  FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining a flow until a player can play a game on the S platform 2S using a coin paid out by the coin lending machine 333. FIG. Here, the machine history management center 800AF is a device for registering various types of information on the coin lending machine 333 and the S unit 2S and managing history information (machine history information) from shipment to disposal.

  Referring to FIG. 4, the coin lending machine manufacturer transmits the lending machine ID of the manufactured coin lending machine 333 and the coin key to the history management center 800AF to register the coin lending machine 333 (FIG. 4). (1)). The coin key is a secret key used for authentication of a coin lent from the coin lending machine 333 and communication between the S units 2S. The lending machine ID is information for identifying each of the coin lending machines 333 manufactured by the coin lending machine manufacturer. In addition, the coin lending machine manufacturer sets the store where the coin lending machine 333 is installed at the history management center at the timing when the coin lending machine 333 is registered or at another timing (for example, when the coin lending machine 333 is shipped). Register with 800AF. At this time, the coin lending machine maker notifies the machine history management center 800AF of information such as the store name of the store desired to be installed.

  The history management center 800AF specifies a store notified by the lending machine manufacturer (a store where the coin lending machine 333 is installed) from among a plurality of stores corresponding to the store ID stored in advance. The history management center 800AF stores the lending machine ID of the coin lending machine 333, the store ID of the store where the coin lending machine 333 is installed, and the coin key in association with each other in the lending machine storage area 850.

  The machine history management center 800AF notifies the coin lending machine manufacturer of the store ID of the store where the registered coin lending machine 333 is installed ((2) in FIG. 4). The lending machine manufacturer stores the lending machine ID, the coin key, and the store ID notified from the machine history management center 800AF in the coin lending machine 333 before shipment. Specifically, these pieces of information are stored in the storage area 3300 of the coin lending machine 333. The lending machine manufacturer ships the coin lending machine 333 to the store (hall) corresponding to the store ID ((3) in FIG. 4).

  Further, the game machine manufacturer transmits the game machine chip information (main control chip information and payout control chip information) of the manufactured S machine 2S to the machine history management center 800AF, and registers the S machine 2S (in FIG. 4). (4)). When the machine history management center 800AF receives the gaming machine chip information of the S machine 2S, the machine history management center 800AF communicates the gaming machine ID for identifying the S machine 2S and the communication between the main control board 16 and the payout control board 17 of the S machine 2S. A control board key used for authentication is generated. The machine history management center 800AF stores the received gaming machine chip information, gaming machine ID, and control board key in the gaming machine storage area 860 in association with each other. Then, the machine history management center 800AF transmits the gaming machine ID and the control board key to the gaming machine manufacturer ((5) in FIG. 4). The game machine ID and the control board key are stored in the main control board 16 (the RAM) of the S board 2S.

  Also, the game machine manufacturer registers the security board 335 mounted on the coin recognition board 331 of the S machine 2S with respect to the machine history management center 800AF. Specifically, the game machine manufacturer registers the security board 335 by transmitting the game board chip information of the S 2S on which the security board 335 is mounted and the security board (SC board) ID (in FIG. 4). (6)). In addition, the game machine manufacturer wants to install the S board 2S on which the security board 335 is mounted at the timing of registering the security board 335 or another timing (for example, the timing of shipping the S board 2S). The history management center 800AF is notified of the store name and the like, and the store desired to be installed is registered.

  The history management center 800AF refers to the lending machine storage area 850 and identifies the coin key associated with the store ID of the store that has received the request for installation. That is, the machine history management center 800AF specifies the coin key of the coin lent out from the coin lending machine 333 installed in the store that has received the request. Also, the machine history management center 800AF refers to the gaming machine storage area 860 and identifies the gaming machine ID associated with the gaming machine chip information of the S machine 2S received from the gaming machine manufacturer. The history management center 800AF stores the received SC board ID, the specified gaming machine ID, the store ID of the store that received the request, and the specified coin key in the SC board storage area 870 in association with each other. Then, the machine history management center 800AF transmits the gaming machine ID, the store ID, and the coin key to the gaming machine manufacturer ((7) in FIG. 4). The game table ID, store ID, and coin key are stored in the security board 335 (RAM thereof).

  The game machine manufacturer stores the game machine ID and the control board key transmitted from the machine history management center 800AF in (5) in FIG. 4 in the main control board 16, and in (7) in FIG. 4, the machine history management center. The gaming machine ID, store ID, and coin key transmitted from 800AF are stored in the security board 335 (RAM). The game machine manufacturer then ships the S machine 2S to the store ((8) in FIG. 4).

  When the S unit 2S is installed in the store and turned on, mutual authentication is performed between the main control board 16 and the security board 335 using the game table ID ((9) in FIG. 4). Specifically, it is determined whether or not the gaming machine ID stored in the RAM of the main control board 16 matches the gaming machine ID stored in the RAM of the security board 335. If the game machine IDs match, authentication is successful and the main control board 16 and the security board 335 can be exchanged.

  Next, the machine history management center 800AF is installed in the store according to the coin key of the coin lent from the coin lending machine 333 installed in the store based on the store ID with respect to the hall server 801 of the store. The game machine IDs and control board keys of all the S machines 2S are notified ((10) in FIG. 4). The hall server 801 stores such information in the RAM.

  The hall server 801 notifies the coin lending machine 333 of the gaming machine IDs, control board keys, and coin keys of all S machines 2S installed in the store ((11) in FIG. 4). The coin lending machine 333 stores the gaming machine IDs and control board keys of all the S machines 2S installed in the store in the RAM (storage area 3310). Further, the coin lending machine 333 updates the coin key stored at the time of shipment to the coin key notified from the hall server 801. The coin lending machine 333 updates these pieces of information each time it receives a notification of a gaming machine ID, a control board key, and a coin key from the hall server 801.

  Further, the hall server 801 notifies the S board 2S of the control board key associated with the game machine ID of the S machine 2S and the coin key ((12) in FIG. 4). The control board key is stored in the RAM of the main control board 16 of the S platform 2S, and the coin key is stored in the RAM of the security board 335. Specifically, the control board key stored in the RAM of the main control board 16 at the time of shipment of the S platform 2S is updated to the control board key notified from the hall server 801. Further, the coin key stored in the RAM of the security board 335 at the time of shipment is updated to the coin key notified from the hall server 801.

  Next, the coin lending operation of the coin lending machine 333 will be described. The coin lending machine 333 includes a bill insertion slot for inserting banknotes, insertion of member coins, coin insertion / ejection slot for discharging member coins and visitor coins, and a currency discriminator for identifying authenticity and banknote type. It has the function of.

  When a bill is inserted by the player, the coin lending machine 333 identifies the authenticity and type of the bill and writes the deposit amount into the coin. Also, the coin lending machine 333 writes the store ID and coin key stored in the storage area 3300 and the gaming machine ID and control board key stored in the storage area 3310 on the coin. Typically, the coin lending machine 333 writes the gaming machine IDs and control board keys of all the S machines 2S installed in the store into the coin, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, when coins lent from the coin lending machine 333 can be used only for a predetermined number of S units 2S (for example, when one medal is limited to S units 2S of 20 yen), the predetermined number The gaming machine ID of the S machine 2S and the control board key may be written on the coin. In addition, all the S units 2S installed in the store include the S units 2S that the store owns but does not operate, but the stores are limited to the S units 2S that are actually operating. It is not necessary to include the S platform 2S that is simply held. Then, the coin lending machine 333 discharges the coin in which the above-described various information is written from the coin insertion / discharge port ((13) in FIG. 4).

  The storage area 3300 may store the store ID itself, or may store a unique number associated with the store ID, for example. That is, the storage area 3300 only needs to store information that can specify the store ID. For example, the store ID is stored in association with the information in a host server such as a hall management computer. And store ID is specified based on the said information. Similarly, the storage area 3300 may store the coin key itself, or may store, for example, a unique number associated with the coin key. That is, the storage area 3300 only needs to store information that can identify a coin key.

  In addition, the storage area 3310 may store a plurality of S 2S game machine IDs themselves, or may store, for example, a unique number group associated with each of the plurality of game machine IDs. That is, the storage area 3310 only needs to store an information group that can specify a plurality of gaming machine IDs. For example, the game table IDs of a plurality of S units 2S are stored in association with the information group in a host server such as a hall management computer. The plurality of game machine IDs are specified based on the information group. Similarly, the storage area 3300 may store a plurality of control board keys themselves, or may store, for example, a unique number group associated with a plurality of control board keys. That is, the storage area 3310 only needs to store an information group that can specify a plurality of control board keys.

  When the player uses the coins lent by the coin lending machine 333 to play a game on the S unit 2S, the lent coins are inserted into the coin insertion slot 13 shown in FIG. When a coin is inserted into the coin insertion slot 13, the S unit 2S accepts the coin, and authentication of communication between the S unit 2S and the coin is performed by the coin recognition board 331 (security board 335) (in FIG. 4). (14)). Specifically, the CPU of the security board 335 permits communication between the S platform 2S and the coin when authentication is possible based on the coin key stored in the RAM and the coin key stored in the received coin. To do.

  FIG. 5 is a flowchart for explaining the communication authentication process between the S platform 2S and the coin. Referring to FIG. 5, security board 335 determines whether or not a coin has been inserted via a reader / writer (step S500). If no coin is inserted (NO in step S500), security board 335 repeats the process of step S500. On the other hand, when a coin is inserted (YES in step S500), the security board 335 starts communication authentication processing between the S platform 2S using the coin key and the coin (step S502).

  The security board 335 determines whether the authentication result is normal based on the coin key stored in its own RAM and the coin key stored in the accepted coin (step S504). Specifically, the security board 335 determines that the authentication result is normal if the coin key stored in the RAM matches the coin key stored in the accepted coin, and if not, the authentication result Is not normal (abnormal). If the authentication result is normal (YES in step S504), the security board 335 permits communication between the S platform 2S and the coin (step S510).

  On the other hand, if the authentication result is abnormal (NO in step S504), the security board 335 determines whether or not the number of retries is the third (step S506). If the number of retries is not the third (the number of retries is the first or second) (NO in step S506), the process returns to step S502, and the authentication process is performed again. On the other hand, when the number of retries is the third time (YES in step S506), security board 335 discharges the coin because the authentication result is abnormal (step S508). Note that the security board 335 notifies the hall server 801 of information that accepted the coin that the authentication result is abnormal. Of course, when the security board 335 accepts a coin that the authentication result is abnormal, the security board 335 may notify using the LED or speaker of the S unit 2S.

  Referring to FIG. 4 again, when the communication authentication between the S platform 2S and the coin is normally completed, the security board 335 is stored in the security board 335 from the control board keys recorded in the accepted coin. The control board key associated with the game machine ID of the S machine 2S is read ((14) in FIG. 4). The read control board key is stored in the RAM of the security board 335 of the S unit 2S. Next, authentication of communication between the main control board 16 and the payout control board 17 is performed using the control board key ((15) in FIG. 4). Specifically, when the payout control board 17 can authenticate based on the control board key stored in the RAM of the main control board 16 and the control board key stored in the security board 335, the main control board 17 16 is allowed to communicate with the payout control board 17.

  FIG. 6 is a flowchart for explaining an authentication process for communication between the main control board 16 and the payout control board 17. Referring to FIG. 6, the payout control board 17 receives the control board key from the main control board 16 (step S550), and is read out from the control board key recorded in the accepted coin and stored in the security board 335. The control board key is received from the security board 335 (step S552). The payout control board 17 starts communication authentication processing between the main control board 16 and the payout control board 17 using the control board key (step S554).

  The payout control board 17 determines whether or not the authentication result is normal based on the control board key received from the main control board 16 and the control board key stored in (received from) the security board 335 (step S556). ). Specifically, the payout control board 17 determines that the authentication result is normal and matches if the control board key received from the main control board 16 and the control board key stored in the security board 335 match. If not, it is determined that the authentication result is not normal (abnormal). If the authentication result is normal (YES in step S556), payout control board 17 permits communication between main control board 16 and payout control board 17 (step S558). The payout control board 17 notifies the main control board 16 that the authentication result is normal.

  On the other hand, when the authentication result is abnormal (NO in step S558), payout control board 17 determines whether or not the retry count is the third (step S560). If the number of retries is not the third (the number of retries is the first or second) (NO in step S560), the process returns to step S550, and the authentication process is performed again. On the other hand, when the number of retries is the third (YES in step S560), payout control board 17 notifies that the authentication result is abnormal using an abnormality notification lamp or the like (step S562). Of course, the payout control board 17 may notify the hall server 801 that the authentication result is abnormal.

  Referring to FIG. 4 again, once the communication authentication between the S platform 2S and the coin and the communication authentication between the main control board 16 and the payout control board 17 are established, the game using the coin is permitted by the security board 335. Is started ((16) in FIG. 4).

  In order to improve the security, in order to allow a game using coins, the store IDs stored in the received coins match, and the S units 2S that have received coins in the game table IDs stored in the coins. Must be included. Specifically, FIG. 7 is a flowchart for explaining processing for permitting a game. Referring to FIG. 7, security board 335 starts a game permission authentication process using the store ID (step S600). The security board 335 determines whether or not the authentication result is normal (step S602). Specifically, the security board 335 determines that the authentication result is normal when the store ID stored in the RAM matches the store ID recorded in the accepted coin, and authenticates when it does not match. Judge that the result is not normal.

  If the authentication result is not normal (NO in step S602), the security board 335 determines whether or not the number of retries is the third (step S604). If the number of retries is not the third (NO in step S604), the process returns to step S600, and the authentication process is performed again. On the other hand, when the number of retries is the third time (YES in step S600), security board 335 notifies that the authentication result is abnormal using an abnormality notification lamp or the like (step S606), and uses a coin. The game is prohibited (step S608). Of course, the security board 335 may notify the hall server 801 that the authentication result is abnormal.

  On the other hand, if the authentication result is normal (YES in step S602), the security board 335 starts the game permission authentication process using the gaming machine ID (step S610). The security board 335 determines whether or not the authentication result is normal (step S612). Specifically, the security board 335 determines that the authentication result is normal when the gaming machine ID stored in the RAM is included in the gaming machine ID recorded in the accepted coin, and is included. If not, it is determined that the authentication result is not normal. If the authentication result is normal (YES in step S612), security board 335 permits a game using coins (step S616).

  If the authentication result is not normal (NO in step S612), the security board 335 determines whether or not the number of retries is the third (step S614). If the number of retries is not the third (NO in step S614), the process returns to step S610, and the authentication process is performed again. On the other hand, when the number of retries is the third time (YES in step S614), security board 335 notifies that the authentication result is abnormal using an abnormality notification lamp or the like (step S606), and uses a coin. The game is prohibited (step S608). Of course, the security board 335 may notify the hall server 801 that the authentication result is abnormal. When the store IDs of the accepted coins match (YES in step S602), but the game table ID recorded in the received coin does not include the game table ID stored in the security board 335. (NO in step S612), a notification such as “please update with a coin lending machine” may be made in order to update the information of the gaming machine ID recorded in the coin.

  The above process may be executed by the main control board 16. In this case, the main control board 16 receives the store ID stored in the security board 335 and the store ID stored in the coin from the security board 335. And the main control board 16 performs a game permission authentication process using these store IDs. Further, the main control board 16 receives the gaming machine ID stored in the security board 335 and the gaming machine ID stored in the coin from the security board 335. Then, the main control board 16 executes a game permission authentication process using these game machine IDs.

  Next, the control board key stored in the main control board 16 in association with the game machine ID is updated every day in order to improve security. Specifically, the machine history management center 800AF lends from the coin lending machine 333 installed in the store to the hall server 801 of the store based on the store ID, as indicated by (10) in FIG. The coin key of the coin to be played, the gaming machine ID of the plurality of S machines 2S installed in the store, and the control board key are notified. The hall server 801 updates the control board key notified from the machine history management center 800AF based on the gaming machine ID. The control board key is updated from the machine history management center 800AF to the hall server 801 at a time outside the store opening hours, for example, at midnight.

  Similarly, as shown at (11) in FIG. 4, the hall server 801 notifies the coin lending machine 333 of the game machine IDs, control board keys, and coin keys of all S machines 2S installed in the store. To do. The coin lending machine 333 updates the control board key notified from the hall server 801 based on the gaming machine ID. The control board key is updated from the hall server 801 to the coin lending machine 333 after the hall server 801 outside the business hours of the store is updated.

  Thus, authentication of communication between the main control board 16 and the payout control board 17 is performed using the control board key updated every day ((15) in FIG. 4), and the main control board 16 and the payout control board are obtained. 17 is established, and the security board 335 can start processing for permitting a game using coins. That is, since the control board key updated on the day is stored for the coin lent out from the coin lending machine 333, the game can be performed using the coin only on the day. For this reason, even if the user takes the coin home and tries to play a game on the S unit 2S using the coin on the next day, the control board key of the S unit 2S has been updated and cannot be used. In the case where it is desired to take the coin home and play the game on the S machine 2S using the coin on the next day, the coin may be used by updating the coin with the coin lending machine 333.

  However, when the communication device of the coin lending machine 333 breaks down and goes offline, the control board key of the S unit 2S is updated every day, but the control board key of the coin lent from the coin lending machine 333 is not updated. Thus, it becomes impossible to play a game on the S platform 2S using the coin. Therefore, the control board key updated from the hall server 801 to the coin lending machine 333 is a control board key that can be used in the next period (for example, the period until the next day, the next week, the next month, etc.). This will be specifically described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 8 is a diagram for explaining the update timing of the control board keys of the S platform 2S, the coin lending machine 333, and the coins. FIG. 8 shows the update timings of the control board keys for the S units 2S, the coin lending machine 333, and the coins from May 1st to 4th. Note that the control board key of the S platform 2S has a one-day deadline, and the control board key of the coin lending machine 333 has a three-day deadline from that day.

  For example, in the S platform 2S, the control board key only for the update day is stored on May 1, and the control board key for only May 2 is stored when the next day is updated. On the other hand, in the coin lending machine 333, a control board key with a three-day deadline (effective May 1, 2, 3) is stored on May 1 and is updated and the next day is reached. A control board key from May 2 to 3 days (effective May 2, 3 and 4) is stored. However, in FIG. 8, the coin lending machine 333 is in an offline state and the control board key cannot be renewed, and even if it is May 2, it will expire on May 1 (May 1, 2 and 3 will be valid) ) Is stored.

  In this state, when the coin lending machine 333 lends a coin on May 2, the coin has a control board key expired from May 1 to 3 days (effective May 1, 2, 3). Remembered. For this reason, it is possible to play a game using coins on the S platform 2S updated to the control board key on May 2nd. Further, since the control board key for the three days from May 1 (effective May 1, 2, 3 days) is stored in the coin, it is updated to the control board key of May 3. Although the game can be played on the S machine 2S, the game cannot be played on the S machine 2S updated to the control board key on May 4th. Note that the coin lending machine 333 is in an online state on May 3, and stores a control board key for a period of 3 days from May 3 (effective on May 3, 4, 5).

  As described above, the coin lending machine 333 stores the control board key that can be used in the next period (for example, the next day, the next week, the period until the next month, etc.) and can write it on the coin, so that it is offline. Even if it becomes a state, coins can be used and the store can continue to operate. Of course, it is possible to take the coin home and use it on the next day, so that the convenience of the player is improved. In the above-described example, the case where only the control board key is updated has been described. However, the present invention can be similarly applied to the case where a coin key, a game machine ID, a store ID, and the like are updated. Also, the update timing is not limited to one day, but may be a unit such as one week or one month.

  Next, if authentication of communication between the S unit 2S and the coin shown in (14) in FIG. 4 is continued for a long time after the S unit 2S receives the coin, there is a possibility that the security may be lowered. In addition, the fact that the authentication of communication between the S unit 2S and the coin is continued for a long time is a state in which one player continues the game with the same S unit 2S, and therefore, the prevention of the entrainment is prevented. Countermeasures are also necessary from a viewpoint. Therefore, a timer (not shown) that can measure the game operation time is provided on the security board 335, and authentication of communication between the S unit 2S and the coin is performed when a predetermined time has elapsed. Release and disable reading and writing with coins.

  Specifically, an authentication timing process for timing the game operating time will be described using a flowchart. FIG. 9 is a flowchart for explaining the authentication timing process. First, the security board 335 determines whether or not the communication between the S platform 2S and the coin is being authenticated (step S620). When the communication between the S platform 2S and the coin is in the authentication process (YES in step S620), the security board 335 starts measuring the game operating time with a timer (step S622). The security board 335 sets an in-authentication flag when starting the game operation time measurement (step S624).

  Next, the security board 335 determines whether or not the time measured by the timer has passed a predetermined time (step S626). The predetermined time is, for example, 5 hours. If it is determined that the predetermined time has elapsed (YES in step S626), the security board 335 cancels authentication of communication between the S platform 2S and the coin (step S628). If it is determined that the predetermined time has elapsed (NO in step S626), the process ends.

  Next, the security board 335 stops counting the game operating time with the timer (step S630). Then, the security board 335 resets the authentication flag (step S632). Also, the security board 335 notifies the hall server 801 that the authentication of communication between the S platform 2S and the coin has been canceled (step S634). Of course, the security board 335 may notify that the authentication has been canceled using an abnormality notification lamp or the like.

  When the communication between the S platform 2S and the coin is not in the authentication process (NO in step S620), the security board 335 determines whether or not the authentication flag is on (step S636). If the authenticating flag is on (YES in step S636), security board 335 determines whether or not the time measured by the timer has passed a predetermined time (step S626). On the other hand, if the in-authentication flag is not on (NO in step S636), the process ends.

  As described above, the security board 335 cancels the authentication of communication between the S unit 2S and the coin when the time counted by the timer elapses for a predetermined time, and disables reading and writing with the coin. The time authentication state is not continued and security is improved.

<Transmission / reception mode between unit side and slot machine side>
Next, FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing main data among the various data stored on the coin recognition board 331 side that received the coin and the payout control board 17 side, and the transmission / reception mode thereof. With reference to FIG. 10, main ones of various data stored on each of the coin recognition board 331 side and the payout control board 17 side that have received a coin, and transmission / reception modes thereof will be described.

  In the present embodiment, a change in the number of game points (medal points) is calculated on the payout control board 17 side, and the current and latest game points are stored and managed. On the other hand, the number of points (coin points), the number of medals, and the remaining amount of coins (remaining amount) are managed and stored on the coin recognition board 331 side.

  FIG. 10 shows storage data in the RAM provided on the coin recognition board 331 side and storage data in the RAM mounted on the payout control board 17 side. First, when the power supply is turned on for the first time after the S platform 2S is installed in the amusement hall, the payout control board 17 receives a control board key from the main control board 16, and receives a coin. The control board key is also transmitted from the recognition board 331 side. The payout control board 17 determines that the authentication result is normal if the control board key received from the main control board 16 and the control board key received from the coin recognition board 331 (security board 335) match, If they do not match, it is determined that the authentication result is not normal (abnormal).

  Next, connection time, that is, data at the time when the coin recognition board 331 side is connected to the coin accepting / dispensing control board 17 side and communication is started is transmitted from the coin recognition board 331 side to the payout control board 17 side, and the payout control is performed. On the board 17 side, the transmitted connection time is stored.

  In this state, the control board key and the connection time information are stored on the coin recognition board 331 side and the payout control board 17 side. At the time of subsequent coin acceptance, these two pieces of information, that is, the control board key and the previous connection time data are transmitted from the payout control board 17 side to the coin recognition board 331 side.

  On the coin recognition board 331 side, when the user leaves the seat, the transmitted data and the data stored in the accepted coin are collated to determine whether or not the same coin as the previous one is accepted. The connection time data is transmitted from the coin recognition board 331 side to the payout control board 17 side as new connection time data in which communication between the coin recognition board 331 side and the payout control board 17 side is started each time a coin is received. Then, the new connection time data is stored on the payout control board 17 side.

  Both the coin recognition board 331 and the payout control board 17 add the “sequential number (sequence number)” to the message for transmission. Further, both the coin recognition board 331 and the payout control board 17 store the “serial number” received from the other party. There are three types of “serial number”: “normal serial number (normal sequence number)”, “addition serial number (addition sequence number)” and “counting serial number (counting sequence number)”. “Normal sequence number” indicates the sequence number of the message. “Normal serial number” is transmitted by counting up (+1) the serial number received at the time of transmission with the initial value “1” on the coin recognition board 331 side (primary station side). However, the “normal serial number” is not counted up at the time of retransmission. The payout control board 17 side (secondary station side) transmits the received serial number as it is. Note that there is no response if the serial number continuity is not established. The “addition serial number” is a serial number used when the coin recognition board 331 requests the payout control board 17 to add data. The “counting serial number” is a serial number used when the payout control board 17 requests the coin recognition board 331 to count data.

  Only the coin recognition board 331 has the right to update the normal serial number. When the same normal serial number as the transmitted normal serial number is returned, the coin recognition board 331 stores the normal serial number as a backup and transmits the updated normal serial number. Only the coin recognition board 331 has the addition update right of the addition serial number. When making an addition request, the coin recognition board 331 transmits an addition serial number added to the addition serial number that has been used for communication to the payout control board 17 until then. The payout control board 17 returns the same addition serial number when accepting the request. When rejecting the request, the previously received addition sequence number (the addition sequence number received this time-1) is returned. Only the payout control board 17 has the right to update the counting sequence number. When making a count request, the payout control board 17 transmits a count serial number added to the count serial number that has been used for communication until then to the coin recognition board 331. When accepting the request, the coin recognition board 331 returns the same counting serial number. When rejecting the request, the received counting sequence number (counting sequence number-1 received this time) is returned.

  Hereinafter, with regard to “normal serial number”, a configuration in which the coin recognition board 331 counts up (+1) and transmits the serial number received at the time of transmission will be described. However, the present invention is not limited to this configuration, and each of the payout control board 17 and the coin recognition board 331 or the payout control board 17 counts up (+1) and transmits the serial number received at the time of transmission, The other may be configured to transmit the received serial number as it is.

  The “addition serial number” and “counting serial number” are special serial numbers that are counted up in the addition request processing and the count request processing, respectively. Hereinafter, a description will be given of a configuration in which “normal serial number” is also counted up when the “additional serial number” and “counting serial number” are counted up. However, the present invention is not limited to this configuration, and may be configured to stop the “normal sequence number” from being counted up when the “additional sequence number” and the “counting sequence number” are counted up. In the following, “normal serial number” is simply referred to as “serial number”. The “additional sequence number” and “counting sequence number” are also collectively referred to as “request sequence number”.

  The latest game machine information (game machine information being counted) is transmitted between the coin recognition board 331 and the payout control board 17. This latest game machine information is stored in the latest game machine information storage area of the RAM of the payout control board 17 (see FIG. 3). Specifically, information on the addition number counter, information on the subtraction number counter, and information on the counting game possession point counter are included. Note that the number of game points (medal points) is not included in the latest game table information, and is transmitted from the payout control board 17 side to the coin recognition board 331 side as the count value of the game point counter as will be described later. However, instead of this, or in addition to the game score counter, the game score may be included in the latest gaming machine information.

  Information on these counters is collectively transmitted as a response to the coin recognition board 331 side. The addition number counter is a counter that counts the addition number to be added to the game points (medal points). The added number is a “payout point” that is paid out when a winning occurs (added to the number of game points when a winning occurs). That is, the addition number indicates the number that the addition number counter should add to the number of game points. The subtraction number counter is a counter that counts the subtraction number to be subtracted from the game points (medal points). The subtraction number is “the number of bets”. That is, it is a number added as a bet amount by operating the 1BET switch 5 or the MAXBET switch 6. It should be noted that the “subtraction number” does not include the “counting game points”. The counting game possession point counter is a counter for counting the number of counted game possession points to be settled from the game points (medal points) to the possession points. The counting game possession score is “the number of points converted from game score to possession score by the counting operation (medal settlement operation)”. Here, the “payout points” is the number of game points corresponding to the type of winning.

  For example, when the payout control board 17 determines that a prize is won, the addition number counter counts the number of additions to which game points are added based on the winning information, and the value (addition number) of the addition number counter is paid out. Transmission is performed from the board 17 side to the coin recognition board 331 side. The subtraction number counter counts the betting number as a subtraction number based on the operation of the 1BET switch 5 or the MAXBET switch 6, and the value (subtraction number) of the subtraction number counter is counted from the payout control board 17 side to the coin recognition board 331. To the side.

  Alternatively, the payout control board 17 counts the number of game points as the number of game points to be counted by depressing the medal point adjustment switch 11b, and the value of the counter value of game points (the number of game points to be counted) is counted from the payout control board 17 side. Transmit to the recognition board 331 side.

  On the payout control board 17 side, each time the values of the addition counter, the subtraction counter, and the counting game possession point counter are transmitted to the coin recognition board 331, these count values are stored in the previous game machine information storage area (main control unit). 161 (such as RAM of 161) as backup data (rewritten), then the values of the addition counter, subtraction counter, and counting game points counter as the latest gaming machine information are cleared to 0 (excluding the game point counter). In the present embodiment, “clear” has the same meaning as “initialization”.

  As a result, in the storage area of the previous game machine information (game machine information transmitted immediately before), the game table information transmitted to the coin recognition board 331 side immediately before, the data of the addition number, the subtraction number, and the counting game possession point data Is stored as backup data. In the case where the latest game machine information is not transmitted from the payout control board 17 side to the coin recognition board 331 side, this backup data is not only transmitted at the time of the next transmission, This is to enable transmission of the counter value. You may make it memorize | store by adding the number of game points transmitted immediately before to this last game machine information.

  Also, the payout control board 17 updates the value of the game point counter in accordance with the occurrence of winning, the setting of the bet number, and the generation of counting game points (conversion from game points to points). The value of the game score counter is transmitted to the coin recognition board 331 side as the game score.

  On the coin recognition board 331 side, in the accumulated data storage area in the RAM, the number of game points, the number of coin points (also simply referred to as the number of points), the number of medals, the remaining amount, the total addition number (total addition number), the total subtraction number (Total number of subtractions) and the number of points at the time of coin insertion are stored. In addition, the coin possession score is a score obtained by subtracting the score payout score (the score converted from the coin possession score to the game score) from the coin insertion score, and adding the counted game score. That is, the number of coin points is the number of points recorded on the coin and owned by the player at the present time.

  Based on the value of the addition counter (addition number) transmitted from the payout control board 17 side, the total addition number is added to update the score. Further, the total subtraction number is subtracted based on the value of the subtraction number counter (subtraction number) transmitted from the payout control board 17 side, and the score is updated. Further, based on the value of the counting game holding point counter transmitted from the payout control board 17, the coin holding point is added and updated. As described above, the coin recognition board 331 manages the latest information by updating the total addition number, the total subtraction number, and the coin holding point number according to the latest game machine information transmitted from the payout control board 17 one by one. Is possible.

  As shown in the figure, the coin recognition board 331 has an area for storing game points, and also receives a count value of a game point counter (also referred to as game point number or game point total number information) from the payout control board 17 side. Yes. The coin recognition board 331 updates the area for storing game points according to the following procedure. That is, the coin recognition board 331 is based on the value of the addition number counter (addition number), the value of the subtraction number counter (subtraction number), and the value of the counting game possession point counter transmitted from the payout control board 17 side. The stored game score is updated, and it is determined whether or not the count value of the game score counter transmitted from the payout control board 17 side at the same timing matches the updated game score. If they match, the game is allowed to continue, but if they do not match, control to shift to an error state is performed.

  As a result, for example, an error notification lamp or the first display 54 notifies an error, or an error notification signal indicating that an error has occurred is transmitted to the hall management computer or hall server 801 (in this case, hall Error notification may be performed by the management computer or the hall server 801). As a result, a predetermined notification that prompts an artificial response by a staff member is performed.

  Instead of shifting to the error state and stopping the game, the game score stored on the payout control board 17 side is replaced with the count value of the game score counter transmitted from the coin recognition board 331 side. May be. Alternatively, it may be corrected to an average value of the number of game points managed on the payout control board 17 side and the number of game points stored on the coin recognition board 331 side.

  As described above, in this embodiment, the game points are also stored on the coin recognition board 331 side, but whether or not the game points match the game points managed and stored on the payout control board 17 side. The determination can be made (coin recognition board 331 side function). Therefore, even if a situation occurs in which the number of game points stored on the payout control board 17 side does not match the number of game points stored on the coin recognition board 331 side due to fraud or other circumstances, the fact can be checked. . Here, although the determination function is provided on the coin recognition board 331 side, for example, a game stored on the payout control unit 171 side by the hall server 801 connected to the main control unit 161 or the hall management computer. The score and the game score stored on the coin recognition board 331 side may be received to determine whether or not the two match.

  As shown in FIG. 10, the coin recognition board 331 has a storage area for storing the number of coin holding points and the number of stored medals, a storage area for storing the remaining amount of coins accepted (inserted), and a total addition number (addition number). And a storage area for storing the total number of subtractions (total number of subtractions) and the coins when the coin is inserted. The coin recognition board 331 is a storage area for storing a medal according to an input requesting the use of a medal (for example, a pressing input of the replay switch 319 provided on the S platform 2S (when there is no ball)). A predetermined number of stored medals is subtracted from.

  The coin recognition board 331 stores a score according to an input requesting the use of a score (for example, pressing input of the score switch 324 when a score is present (however, when a score is present)). Subtract a predetermined number of balls from. Further, the coin recognition board 331 subtracts a predetermined value from a storage area for storing the remaining amount in response to an input requesting use of the remaining amount (for example, pressing input of the lending switch 321).

  A game on the payout control board 17 according to the value withdrawn when the player performs an operation for deducting the value from the game value (for example, the remaining amount, the number of points, or the number of stored medals) owned by the player and using it for the game. Points are added. The payout control board 17 receives the information on the number of additions from the coin recognition board 331, and can add and update the number of balls for withdrawal to the game point counter.

  On the other hand, in the gaming system according to the present embodiment, it is possible to accept a so-called wagon service order in which the gaming value owned by the player is withdrawn and exchanged for a drink or the like. However, receiving wagon services with game points and credits is restricted, and you can only receive wagon services with points. This is an image in which, in a conventional slot machine in which medals are paid out, it is prohibited to grab a medal before counting remaining on a plate and use it for a wagon service.

  For this reason, in this embodiment, when the operation for performing the wagon service is executed, if the number of points is less than the number of balls corresponding to the desired menu of the wagon service, the player is allowed to perform the settlement operation (credit settlement switch 11a or The operation of the medal point adjustment switch 11b) is encouraged. At this time, when the player executes a settlement operation, the number of game points counted based on the operation is transmitted from the payout control board 17 side to the coin recognition board 331 side. On the coin recognition board 331 side, the game score is subtracted and updated by adding the coin holding score.

<Frame configuration used in communication>
Next, communication between the main control unit 161 and the payout control unit 171 and communication between the coin recognition board 331 and the payout control board 17 according to the present embodiment will be described in more detail. A message used in the communication is composed of a frame having a predetermined format. Transmission data (message) is always transmitted in units of one frame. That is, the divided transmission of the message is not performed. Moreover, when transmitting a message | telegram continuously, the space | interval of 1 millisecond or more is opened.

  One frame of transmission data includes a data length, a normal sequence number, an addition sequence number, a counting sequence number, a command, and a data portion. “Data length” indicates the data length of the transmission data (serial number to data portion (business message range)). “Command” is a command code of the message. The “data part” is data of a message.

<Insert coin>
Communication performed in the present embodiment will be described using communication performed between the coin recognition board 331 and the payout control board 17 at the time of coin insertion as an example. FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of processing in the coin recognition board 331 and the payout control board 17 at the time of coin insertion. The sequence process shown in FIG. 11 is a process executed when communication is resumed after the communication between the coin recognition board 331 and the payout control board 17 is normally completed. Specifically, this is processing when communication is resumed after coins are inserted into the S platform 2S. A typical example is a case where a player plays a game by inserting coins after the power is turned on. The case where a coin with the same coin ID is inserted and communication is resumed is a case where the player leaves and plays a game again at lunch or the like.

  A player inserts a coin into the coin insertion slot 13. At the time of coin insertion, the S unit 2S stops the reel motors 32L, 32C, 32R to stop the game, and then starts communication. First, in the coin recognition board 331, an authentication process is started using a coin key. Specifically, an authentication process (coin key authentication) is performed between the coin side inserted using the coin key stored in the coin and the coin key stored in the security board 335 and the security board 335 side. Executed. A more detailed coin key authentication sequence will be described with reference to FIG. When the coin key authentication is properly performed using the coin key of the accepted coin and the coin key stored in the security board 335 of the coin recognition board 331, the authentication sequence is started thereafter. In the authentication sequence, the coin recognition board 331 reads out the control board key from the coin that can be communicated by the coin key authentication, and transmits it to the payout control board 17. The payout control board 17 uses the control board key of the accepted coin and the control board key stored in the main control board 16 to start authentication in communication with the main control board 16. A more detailed authentication sequence in communication between the payout control board 17 and the main control board 16 will be described with reference to FIG. When the authentication sequence in the communication between the payout control board 17 and the main control board 16 is properly performed, communication between the coin, the coin recognition board 331, the payout control board 17 and the main control board 16 is started, and the authentication sequence is finish.

  After the authentication sequence, the coin recognition board 331 determines whether or not the accepted coin is the same as the previously accepted coin. Specifically, the coin recognition board 331 determines that the coin is the same when the coin ID of the previously accepted coin matches the coin ID of the currently accepted coin. If the coin recognition board 331 determines that the coins are the same, the coin recognition board 331 transmits a recovery request including the last last transmission sequence number and the last last transmission count sequence number to the payout control board 17 and requests recovery information from the payout control board 17. The payout control board 17 performs a count recovery process with reference to the previous last transmission count serial number notified from the coin recognition board 331. Specifically, the payout control board 17 refers to the last transmission count sequence number last time, and if the coin recognition board 331 has not performed the counting process, it is assumed that the counting process has not been performed, and the coin recognition board 331 performs the counting process. When the above is completed, the count data is recovered.

  After executing the count recovery process, the payout control board 17 returns the game information recovery data backed up inside the payout control board 17 (specifically, the payout control board 17) to the coin recognition board 331 as a response (recovery response). ). The recovery information includes a previous last transmission sequence number, a previously inserted coin ID, a previous coin insertion time, a previous last transmission addition sequence number, a previous game machine information, and the like.

  The coin recognition board 331 that has received the recovery response adds the coin recognition board 331 using the previous game machine information included in the recovery information when the process of the last transmission addition serial number included in the recovery information has not been executed. Perform recovery processing. The coin recognition board 331 transmits the recovery request 2 to the payout control board 17 to the payout control board 17 and transmits the recovery data to the payout control board 17 when performing the addition recovery process. This recovery data includes the previous last transmission sequence number and addition data.

  In response to this, the payout control board 17 executes addition recovery processing based on the received recovery data, and returns the result as a response to the coin recognition board 331 (recovery response 2). When the payout control board 17 cannot receive the added data, the recovery process NG is returned as a recovery result.

  This recovery process is a process for recovering the consistency of the mutual data between the coin recognition board 331 and the payout control board 17 and is not only executed when coins are inserted, but also has trouble and has been recovered. Sometimes even executed.

  The coin recognition board 331 counts up the serial number every time a command such as a recovery request is transmitted. However, it does not count up when retransmitting a command. When the payout control board 17 receives a command having the same serial number as the previously received serial number, it determines that a communication failure has occurred and the coin recognition board 331 has retransmitted the command. The coin recognition board 331 transmits a command, and backs up the serial number when a response with the same serial number is notified from the payout control board 17. When the payout control board 17 transmits a response corresponding to the received command, it notifies the coin recognition board 331 of the received serial number as it is. The payout control board 17 backs up the serial number when the response is transmitted.

  After the authentication sequence is completed, the coin recognition board 331 transmits a recovery request command to the payout control board 17 with a serial number “1”. The payout control board 17 returns the received serial number “1” as it is to the coin recognition board 331 as a response of the recovery response. Further, the coin recognition board 331 transmits the command of the recovery request 2 to the payout control board 17 with the serial number “2”. The payout control board 17 returns the response of the recovery response 2 to the coin recognition board 331 as it is with the received serial number “2”.

  Thereafter, the coin recognition board 331 counts up the serial number to “3”, and transmits a communication start request command to the payout control board 17. If the coin recognition board 331 does not transmit the recovery request 2, the serial number is “2”, which is one countdown (−1). In response to this, the payout control board 17 clears the recovery data. Then, the payout control board 17 returns the response of the communication start response to the coin recognition board 331 with the received serial number “3”. Thereafter, a state information request command and a state information response response are transmitted and received between the coin recognition board 331 and the payout control board 17.

  The coin recognition board 331 counts up the serial number to “4” and transmits a status information request command to the payout control board 17. In response to this, the payout control board 17 receives game table information (for example, holding points, coin balance, medals, etc., ball number information, etc.), game information (for example, reel position, gaming state (such as during AT). ), Jackpot, abnormality notification, number of winnings, medal points, etc.) and the last transmission serial number are updated, and the updated data is backed up every time a response of the status information response is transmitted. The payout control board 17 returns the response of the state information response to the coin recognition board 331 with the received serial number “4”. The payout control board 17 can update the gaming machine information to grasp the number of points in the game and manage the information of the latest points. In addition, the payout control board 17 can, for example, output game information to the outside so as to aggregate the information and grasp and manage the game state.

  In response to this, the coin recognition board 331 updates the previous last transmission serial number, and backs up the updated data every time a response to the status information response is received.

  Thereafter, the coin recognition board 331 counts up the serial number to “5” and transmits a status information request command to the payout control board 17, and the payout control board 17 keeps the received serial number “5” and the status information. A response of the response is returned to the coin recognition board 331.

<Coin key authentication sequence>
The coin key authentication sequence shown in FIG. 11, in particular, processing executed between the coin side (specifically, the reader / writer that received the coin) and the security chip (SC) in the coin recognition board 331 will be described. To do.

  With reference to FIG. 12, an example of an authentication sequence process in communication between the coin side and the SC will be described. FIG. 12 is a diagram for explaining the processing of the authentication sequence in the communication between the coin side and the SC. First, the coin side transmits a coin key authentication request 1 command for requesting authentication of a coin key to the SC. Since the coin key authentication is performed using a challenge / response method, the coin side requests a challenge code from the SC.

  The SC that has received the command of the coin key authentication request 1 generates a challenge code based on the coin key stored in the SC, and notifies the coin side of the generated challenge code as a response of the coin key authentication response 1.

  Upon receiving the coin key authentication response 1 command, the coin side generates a response code based on the challenge code, and notifies the generated response code to the SC using the coin key request 2 command. Specifically, the response code is generated by encrypting the challenge code received using the coin key stored on the coin side as a key.

  The SC that has received the command of the coin key authentication request 2 checks the response code (specifically, the response code is decrypted using the coin key as a key and the challenge code is extracted), and if the challenge code matches, the check result Is OK. The check result is notified to the coin side by the response of the coin key authentication response 2. At this time, the coin side acquires authentication log information such as a coin key authentication result from the SC.

  On the other hand, if the challenge codes do not match, the check result is NG (inappropriate). In that case, the authentication is repeated n times, and the SC becomes a no-response state (HALT) in the case of NG for n consecutive times, and the coin key is cleared. After this non-response state (HALT) is reached, repairs will be performed at the factory.

  Note that the game permission authentication process using the store ID and the game permission authentication process using the game machine ID described in FIG. 7 may be performed after the coin key authentication. Thereby, it is possible to determine whether or not the inserted coin can be used at an early stage of the authentication process.

<Authentication sequence in communication between payout control board and main control board>
Next, an example of an authentication sequence process in communication between the payout control board and the main control board shown in FIG. 11 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining an authentication sequence process in communication between the payout control board and the main control board. Note that in (15) in FIG. 4 described above, the payout control board 17 can be authenticated based on the control board key stored in the RAM of the main control board 16 and the control board key stored in the security board 335. In this case, the communication between the main control board 16 and the payout control board 17 is permitted, which will be described as an example of the authentication process.

  First, the main control board 16 that has received the control board key authentication request 1 command encrypts the random number A of the authentication information with respect to the payout control board 17 using the control board key stored in the main control board 16, and MAC The H-MAC is calculated with the key and is returned as a response of the control board key authentication response 1.

  The payout control board 17 that has received the control board key authentication response 1 command decrypts the random number A of the authentication information with the control board key stored in the payout control board 17 and checks the MAC in order to verify the control board key. To do.

  Thereafter, the payout control board 17 encrypts the random number B of the authentication information with the control board key stored in the payout control board 17 with respect to the main control board 16, calculates the H-MAC with the MAC key, and performs control. It is transmitted by the command of the board key authentication request 2. Note that the control board key authentication request 2 command is encrypted using the control board key as the encryption key.

  The main control board 16 that has received the command of the control board key authentication request 2 verifies the control board key against the payout control board 17 and uses the control board key stored in the main control board 16 to generate a random number of authentication information. Decrypt B and check MAC. The main control board 16 returns a response of the control board key authentication response 2 to the payout control board 17. At this time, the payout control board 17 acquires authentication log information such as a control board key authentication result from the main control board 16.

  As described above, when the authentication sequence described with reference to FIGS. 12 and 13 is properly performed, highly secure communication is started among the coin, the coin recognition board 331, the payout control board 17, and the main control board 16. The

<Modifications and feature points>
Next, modifications and feature points of the present embodiment described above are listed.

  (1) Although the present embodiment has described a gaming system that does not include the CU 3 (game device) that is communicably connected to the S platform 2S as shown in FIGS. 1 and 3, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, by including the function of the coin lending machine 333 in the CU3, it is not necessary to go to the coin lending machine 333 installed in the hall and lend coins. If the coin can be lent out, the convenience for the player is improved. In addition, a gaming system in which the CU 3 is connected to the hall server 801, the machine history management center 800AF, and the management server via the T-BOX 400 may be used. Specifically, FIG. 14 is a front view showing a modified unit and a slot machine. FIG. 15 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a modified unit and a slot machine.

  In the unit and slot machine shown in FIG. 14, the slot machine has the same configuration as that shown in FIG. 1, and therefore detailed description will not be repeated. Therefore, hereinafter, the configuration of the unit according to this modification will be described. The CU 3 is provided with a security board 325 (see FIG. 15) for communicating with the payout control board 17 (see FIG. 15) of the S platform 2S while ensuring security. Then, mutual authentication information necessary for mutual authentication between the payout control board 17 of the S platform 2S and the main control board 16 is provided to the payout control board 17. Further, the CU 3 includes a coin lending machine 333 (see FIG. 15) that lends coins (member coins, visitor coins) in which the deposit amount is written. The coin lending machine 333 writes and rents the deposit amount as a visitor coin balance, or inserts a member coin owned by the player into a coin insertion / discharge slot and writes it into the balance of the member coin for lending. Note that the coin lending machine 333 may not be provided in the CU 3, but one coin lending machine 333 may be provided for one game island, or a plurality of coin lending machines 333 may be provided in a predetermined place of the hall.

  On the front side of the CU 3, a bill insertion slot 302 for inserting bills, a protrusion 305 formed to project forward from the front of the apparatus, insertion of member coins, and coin insertion for discharging member coins and visitor coins / Discharge port 309 and the like are provided. When the member coin inserted into the coin insertion / discharge port 309 is received by a reader / writer (not shown) and a bill is inserted into the bill insertion port 302, information on the amount of the inserted bill is written into the member coin. In rare cases, the member coin is discharged from the coin insertion / discharge port 309. On the other hand, in the case of a visitor coin, when a bill is inserted into the bill insertion slot 302, information on the amount of the inserted bill is written in an empty visitor coin (a visitor coin in which no information is recorded). Rarely, the visitor coin written from the coin insertion / discharge port 309 is discharged.

  The above-described protrusion 305 is provided with a display 312 on the surface facing the player, and an infrared signal is received on the upper side of the protrusion 305 from a remote control (not shown) possessed by an attendant of the game hall. An IR photosensitive unit 320 that converts the signal into an output is provided.

  The display 312 can display information necessary for the display of the coin lending machine 333 and, similarly to the first display 54 on the S platform 2S side, a game recording medium (coin) inserted into the coin insertion slot 13. ) Recorded prepaid balance (also referred to as coin balance or simply balance), medal points, credits, and other various information, and the surface is constituted by a transparent touch panel. Various operations can be input by touching various display items displayed on the display unit of the display 312 with a finger.

  The banknote inserted into the banknote insertion slot 302 is taken in by a currency discriminator 334 (see FIG. 15), and its authenticity and banknote type are identified.

  As shown in FIG. 15, the CU 3 is provided with a connection portion 327 to the S base 2S side, and the S base 2S is provided with a connection portion 328 to the CU 3 side. These connection parts are constituted by connectors, for example. The CU 3 and the S stand 2S are connected by a communication cable 329 that connects between the connection units 327-328.

  The CU 3 and the S base 2S provide the mutual authentication information necessary for mutual authentication between the payout control board 17 and the main control board 16 of the S base 2S to the payout control board 17 via the communication cable 329. Further, the information of the first display 54 and the second display 55 is transmitted to the display control unit 350 via the communication cable 329 between the CU 3 and the S stand 2S.

  The CU 3 is provided with a CU control unit 323 composed of a microcomputer or the like. The CU control unit 323 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) as a control center, a ROM (Read Only Memory) storing a program for operating the CPU and control data, and a RAM (RAM) functioning as a work area of the CPU. Random Access Memory) and an input / output interface for maintaining signal consistency with peripheral devices.

  The CU control unit 323 communicates with the payout control board 17 of the S base 2S while ensuring security, and mutual authentication information necessary for mutual authentication between the payout control board 17 of the S base 2S and the main control board 16 Is provided to the payout control board 17. A security board 325 is provided. The security board 325 on the CU 3 side and the payout control board 17 on the S platform 2S side are communicably connected via connection portions 327 and 328 and a communication cable (connection wiring) 329. The security board 325 is provided with a communication control IC 325a for controlling communication between the security board 325 and the payout control board 17, and a security chip (SC) 325b for monitoring the security of the S unit 2S.

  The currency identifier 334 identifies the authenticity and type of the bill, and the identification result signal is input to the CU control unit 323. The CU control unit 323 controls the coin lending machine 333 to write the deposit amount on the coin based on the identification result signal from the money identifier 334. Based on the control of the CU control unit 323, the coin lending machine 333 writes the deposit amount to the coin and discharges the coin from the coin insertion / discharge port 309. In addition, when the IR photosensitive unit 320 receives infrared rays emitted from a remote controller owned by a game attendant, the received light signal is input to the CU control unit 323.

  The CU control unit 323 may receive various game data of the player from the payout control board 17 when the player is playing. Further, data such as a balance, points, medals, credits, and the like are output from the first display 54 to the display control unit 350 and converted into display data by the display control unit 350. The display data converted by the display control unit 350 is output to the display unit 312 on the CU side, and the display unit 312 displays the output display data. As a result, the balance, holding points, medal points, credits, and other data displayed on the first display 54 provided between the variable display devices (reels 2L, 2C, 2R) and the operation unit 9 are stored on the CU side. Is also displayed on the display 312. Further, if the player operates the touch panel provided on the surface of the display 312, the operation signal may be input to the CU control unit 323 via the display control unit 350 and transmitted to the S platform 2 </ b> S. A predetermined operation may be executed on the S platform 2S based on the received operation signal.

  The CU control unit 323 performs centralized management of each hall outside the hall server 801 and machine history management center 800AF installed in the hall and the hall via a T-BOX (terminal box) 400 which is a communication control device. A communication control unit 326 for communicating with a server (not shown) is provided. The history management center 800AF and the hall server 801 may be configured to include the function of the management server.

  The T-BOX 400 and the management server are connected via the Internet. The management server stores model-related information, and can collect various game data of the player received by the CU control unit 323 from the payout control board 17. Furthermore, the management server also functions as a key management server that stores the SID and authentication key of the CU control unit 323 in association with each serial ID (also referred to as SID) of the electronic component inside the CU 3.

  The CU control unit 323 may transmit balance usage information that can specify the usage amount of the balance associated with the lending operation to the management server. The CU control unit 323 may transmit the point use information that can specify the number of points used associated with the point use operation to the management server. The CU control unit 323 may transmit, to the management server, stored medal usage information that can specify the number of used medal used in accordance with the stored medal usage operation.

  (2) In the modification shown in (1), the gaming system including the CU3 (game device) connected to the S platform 2S so as to be communicable as shown in FIG. 15 has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, a game system in which the configuration of the CU 3 is included in the S unit 2S without providing a payout control board, and the S unit 2S is connected to the hall server 801 and the history management center 800AF (and management server) via the T-BOX 400. It may be. Specifically, FIG. 16 is a block diagram showing a configuration with the S stand 2S of another modification. 16 has a configuration in which the functions of the payout control board 17, the CU control unit 323, and the security board 325 shown in FIG. The main control board 16 shown in FIG. 16 does not particularly show the configuration of the payout control board 17, the CU control unit 323, and the security board 325, but includes the respective functions. For example, the payout control board 17 in FIG. The coin recognition board 331 connected to is directly connected. Further, the main control board 16 shown in FIG. 16 is connected to the T-BOX 400 via the external connection terminal 332, and is connected to the hall server 801 and the history management center 800AF via the T-BOX 400. Therefore, the main control board 16 can communicate with the hall server 801 and the history management center 800AF, can realize the functions of the CU control unit 323 and the security board 325 described above, and obtain the same effect. Can do. 16 does not include the entire configuration of the CU 3 illustrated in FIG. 15, and does not include the coin lending machine 333 and the currency identifier 334. In this case, the coin lending machine 333 has a configuration in which one coin lending machine 333 is provided for one game island, or a plurality of coin lending machines 333 are provided in a predetermined place in the hall.

  (3) In the present embodiment, as the condition for canceling the authentication of the communication between the S platform 2S and the coin, it has been explained that the time counted by the timer has elapsed, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the cancellation signal from the hall server 801 may be used as a condition, regardless of whether the power supply of the S platform 2S is ON / OFF or the business hours. Further, the condition for canceling the authentication of the communication between the S platform 2S and the coin may be a condition that the number of games exceeds a predetermined number or a condition that the amount exceeds a predetermined amount. Furthermore, the time counted by the timer is not limited to simply counting the time since the authentication of the communication between the S unit 2S and the coin is started. For example, only the time when the reel is rotating is counted. Or the time during which the performance is being performed may be timed.

  (4) In the present embodiment, it has been described that the authentication of communication between the S unit 2S and the coin is canceled when the time counted by the timer elapses for a predetermined time. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the payout control board 17 may cancel the authentication of the communication between the main control board 16 and the payout control board 17 when the time counted by the timer elapses for a predetermined time. As a result, the game using coins is substantially disabled, so that the authentication state is not continued for a long time and the security is improved.

  (5) In the present embodiment, it is described that a timer capable of timing the game operation time is provided on the security board 335. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and a game operation using a timer provided outside the security board 335 is used. You may keep time. Note that a real-time clock (RTC) or the like may be used as the timer.

  (6) Although the case where the security board 335 is mounted on the coin recognition board 331 of the S unit 2S has been described in the present embodiment, the present invention is not limited to this, and the security board 335 is provided separately from the coin recognition board 331. It may be provided on the main control board 16 or the payout control board 17.

  (7) In the present embodiment, it has been described that the gaming machine ID stored in the coin, the control board key, etc. can be updated by the coin lending machine 333. You may limit to when ID, a control board key, etc. are memorized. Thereby, for example, it is possible to prevent a coin lending machine 333 from being loaded with a coin on which nothing is recorded, and writing information such as a gaming machine ID and a control board key to the coin to steal information.

  (8) In the present embodiment, the case where the game permission authentication process is performed using the store ID and the game table ID in FIG. 7 is described. However, the present invention is not limited to this, for example, the store ID or the game table ID. The game permission authentication process may be performed using only the game.

  (9) As shown in FIG. 15, CU3 is communicably connected to S unit 2S, communicates with hall server 801 and machine history management center 800AF via CU3, and hall server 801 via external connection terminal 332. It is also possible to communicate with the machine history management center 800AF. Therefore, when the S unit 2S outputs game information (for example, reel position, gaming state (such as during AT), jackpot, abnormality notification, number of winnings, medal points, etc.) to the outside such as the hall server 801, the CU 3 is output. Or output to the hall server 801 via the external connection terminal 332. Of course, the S base 2S may use the same game information as a main force by using both the route via the CU3 and the route via the external connection terminal 332.

  (10) In the present embodiment, when the holding points recorded on the coin (recording medium) received by the reader / writer are read to the RAM of the payout control unit 171 which is the holding point storage means of the S unit 2S, It has been described that the medal points are stored as medal points, and that the medal points are converted as credits for use in the game by pressing the medal point use switch 12. Furthermore, in the present embodiment, a configuration has been described in which an upper limit of credit is provided, and medal points are not converted into credit above the upper limit, so that a player who is used to a slot machine of the medal payout method does not feel uncomfortable. . However, the present invention is not limited to this, and when the points recorded on the coins received by the reader / writer are read into the RAM of the payout control unit 171, the credits are not used as the medal points that are the points of the S unit 2S. May be stored. In this case, all the points recorded on the coin can be converted without setting an upper limit for the credit.

  (11) Referring to FIG. 15, mutual authentication is performed between main control unit 161 and payout control unit 171. Authentication information necessary for mutual authentication may be stored in advance in the main control unit 161 and the payout control unit 171, but the necessary authentication information may be obtained from the SC 325b. As a specific authentication sequence, as described above, the chip IDs of the main control unit 161 and the payout control unit 171 are authenticated by the hall server 801, and the communication between the main control unit and the payout control unit is authenticated. Written to the authentication status register. Furthermore, processing for generating an encryption key and a decryption key used for encryption communication between the main control unit 161 and the payout control unit 171 is performed by the authentication sequence. The communication between the main control unit 161 and the payout control unit 171 after the processing is performed is encrypted communication using the generated encryption key and decryption key.

  (12) In this embodiment, the medal points are added by consuming the coin balance. Alternatively, medal points are added by consuming stored medals. That is, a coin balance or a stored medal is converted into medal points. On the other hand, the coin balance and the stored medals are not converted into points. However, the coin balance and the stored medals may be once converted into points.

  (13) The recording medium for recording the holding point in an identifiable manner may be one using a mobile terminal such as a smartphone. In this case, the S unit 2S is provided with a communication unit for communicating with the portable terminal, and the portable terminal is held over the communication unit so that the S unit 2S recognizes the ID stored in the portable terminal. The game can be performed according to the procedure described in the embodiment. On the other hand, at the end of the game, the portable terminal is again held over the communication unit, so that the score at the end of the game is added to the player's score through the ID.

  (14) “In game” when the S-unit 2S invalidates the settlement operation during the game is, for example, a period from the start of rotation of the reels 2L, 2C, 2R to the stop. Alternatively, it is a period from when the start operation is detected until the reels 2L, 2C, 2R are stopped.

  (15) In this embodiment, medal points are stored only on the payout control board 17 side, but medal points may be stored on both the coin recognition board 331 side and the payout control board 17 side.

  (16) The gaming system according to the present embodiment includes a point use operation means for executing a predetermined point use process using points. Here, the predetermined score use processing includes processing for executing the wagon service, or processing for dividing and sharing the score (held ball) (processing for dividing and transferring the score to another person). It is a concept. The holding point use operation means is, for example, a touch panel. Alternatively, the point use operation means may be a remote controller that is given to a clerk of the game store to instruct the CU or the gaming machine to execute the point use processing.

  (17) In this embodiment, the identity of the player is determined based on the coin ID, but instead of or in addition to that, the identity of the player is determined based on the player's fingerprint, biomass such as the retina. May be performed.

  (18) In the present embodiment, when the value is deducted within the range of the valuable value owned by the player (the prepaid balance, the holding ball, the accumulated ball) and the corresponding game points are added, In the above example, game points having the same value are added, but instead, for example, control may be performed so that game points corresponding to consumption tax are added to the value actually deducted.

  (19) In the present embodiment, as an example of the game information, the reel position, the gaming state (such as during AT), the jackpot, the abnormality notification, the number of winnings, the number of medals, and the like have been described. However, the game information may include other information related to the game, such as points, remaining coins, saving medals, etc., the number of balls information, and the game table information. For example, when the player's favorite character selected or customized by the player can be displayed on the first display 54, the second display 55, etc., information that can specify the character is also included in the game information. . Information on the screen design including characters that match the player's preference is transmitted and stored in the server at the end of the game in association with the player's coin ID, for example, when starting a new game. You may make it download from the management server 800 etc. to S stand 2S.

  (20) The presence or absence of a change in the number of points or medal points is checked on the S unit 2S. If the number of points or medal points does not change for a predetermined period, the fact is notified on the S unit 2S. May be. Alternatively, a notification signal may be output to an external device (a hall computer, a calling lamp on the S platform 2S). This makes it easier for the store clerk to grasp, for example, a table that has been abandoned while the remaining few balls are left unattended.

  (21) If the player's medal point changes even though no coin has been inserted into the S platform 2S, the S platform 2S may notify that fact. Alternatively, a notification signal may be output to an external device (a hall computer, a calling lamp on the S platform 2S). Thereby, for example, after the game is finished and the coins are discharged, the store clerk can easily grasp the stand where the medal points are left with being paid out.

  (22) In this embodiment, when the player depresses the lending switch 321, all or part of the balance recorded in the coin is withdrawn and converted into medal points, and the player depresses the score switch 324. Thus, a configuration has been described in which all or part of the points recorded on the coins are withdrawn and converted into medal points. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, when a coin is inserted into the coin slot 13, all or a part of the balance or points recorded on the coin are automatically withdrawn and converted into medal points. .

  (23) In the present embodiment, when the player depresses the lending switch 321, all or part of the balance recorded in the coin is withdrawn, or when the player depresses the point switch 324, When all or a part of the points recorded on the card is withdrawn, the balance or the points that have been withdrawn at the time of the withdrawal is recorded on the coin. However, instead of this, when the return switch 322 is pressed and the coins are returned, the balance or points that have been withdrawn in a lump may be recorded on the coins. In the present embodiment, the points scored at the timing when the medal point settlement switch 11b is operated and the counting process is performed are recorded on the coin. However, instead of this, when the return switch 322 is pressed and the coin is returned, the points counted in a lump may be recorded on the coin.

  (24) In the present embodiment, a configuration has been described in which medal points and credits are stored in the RAM of the payout control unit 171 as the point storage means of the S platform 2S. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, medal points may be stored in the RAM of the payout control unit 171 and credits may be stored in the RAM of the main control unit 161. Further, for example, the bet number may be set directly from the medal points without providing an area for storing credits. Further, without providing an area for storing medal points and credits in the RAM of the payout control unit 171, the points recorded on the coins received by the reader / writer may be directly read out and used for setting the bet amount. . That is, the S platform 2S may play a game by directly using the points recorded on the coin without using medal points or credits.

  The embodiment disclosed this time should be considered as illustrative in all points and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is defined by the terms of the claims, rather than the description above, and is intended to include any modifications within the scope and meaning equivalent to the terms of the claims.

  2S slot machine, 3 units, 11a credit settlement switch, 11b medal point settlement switch, 12 medal point use switch, 13 coin slot, 16 main control board, 17 payout control board, 54 1st display, 55 2nd display 161 main control unit, 171 payout control unit, 309 coin insertion / discharge port, 312 display, 319 replay switch, 320 IR light receiving unit, 321 lending switch, 322 return switch, 323 CU control unit, 333 coin lending machine, 335 Security board, 350 Display control unit.

Claims (2)

A gaming system comprising a gaming machine in which a game is played by a player and a management device that is communicably connected to the gaming machine,
The gaming machine is
Receiving means for receiving a recording medium capable of specifying a valuable value owned by a player and a point used for a game in the gaming machine;
Reading means for reading information capable of specifying a valuable value and a point from the recording medium received by the receiving means;
Conversion means for converting the valuable value specified from the information read by the reading means into points;
A score storage means for storing the score obtained by the conversion of the conversion means and the score specified from the information read by the reading means;
Valuable value subtracting means for subtracting the valuable value specified by the recording medium;
A score subtracting means for subtracting a score specified by the recording medium;
Stored score subtraction means for subtracting the score from the score storage means for use in a game;
Stored score addition means for adding the score obtained from the game result to the score storage means;
A score adding means for adding the score stored in the score storage means to the score specified by the recording medium;
Authentication means for authenticating the recording medium for enabling the reading means to read information capable of specifying a valuable value and a point from the recording medium;
The gaming system, wherein the authentication unit includes a release unit that cancels the authentication of the recording medium according to a predetermined condition. Accepting means for accepting a recording medium capable of specifying the valuable value owned by the player and the points used in the game;
Reading means for reading information capable of specifying a valuable value and a point from the recording medium received by the receiving means;
Conversion means for converting the valuable value specified from the information read by the reading means into points;
A score storage means for storing the score obtained by the conversion of the conversion means and the score specified from the information read by the reading means;
Valuable value subtracting means for subtracting the valuable value specified by the recording medium;
A score subtracting means for subtracting a score specified by the recording medium;
Stored score subtraction means for subtracting the score from the score storage means for use in a game;
Stored score addition means for adding the score obtained from the game result to the score storage means;
A score adding means for adding the score stored in the score storage means to the score specified by the recording medium;
Authentication means for authenticating the recording medium for enabling the reading means to read information capable of specifying a valuable value and a point from the recording medium;
The authentication means includes a release means for releasing authentication of the recording medium according to a predetermined condition.

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