JP6488360B1 - Game system - Google Patents

Abstract

According to the present invention, an illegal act in which a player who does not actually come to a game arcade reserves a gaming machine in a meaningless manner is suppressed.
A gaming apparatus capable of providing a gaming medium to a gaming machine can accept a reservation operation for reserving another gaming machine. In the above configuration, during the full operation period in which all of the specific gaming machines belonging to the specific group are in an operating state, the gaming devices on which the reservation operation is performed are sequentially stored as standby gaming devices. In addition, when the standby gaming device is stored in the full operating period and then any of the specific gaming machines shifts to the non-operating state, the standby gaming device that is initially reserved among the standby gaming devices is selected. The gaming device corresponding to the specific gaming machine can be transferred to the reserved state.
[Selection] Figure 6

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming system capable of reserving gaming machines.

  2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, a gaming system for managing gaming machines (pachinko machines and pachislot machines) installed in a game hall is known. Some of the above gaming systems allow a player to reserve a gaming machine in advance. For example, in the gaming system of Patent Document 1, any of gaming machines can be reserved in advance from a remote place by a computer possessed by the player.

  Of the gaming machines installed in the amusement hall, popularity may be concentrated on some gaming machines. For example, game machines (so-called “new machines”) that have just been introduced to amusement halls tend to be popular. When popularity is concentrated on some gaming machines, there is an inconvenience that the players can easily interact with the gaming machines and cause troubles. According to the gaming system described above, a gaming machine can be reserved in advance, and the above disadvantages are suppressed.

JP 2005-1111010 A

  However, in the above-described conventional technology, since a gaming machine can be reserved from a remote place, a player who does not actually come to the game hall is expected to perform an illegal act of making a meaningless reservation. An object of the present invention is to suppress the above fraud.

In order to solve the above problems, the gaming system according to the first aspect of the present invention is provided corresponding to each of a plurality of gaming machines including a particular gaming machine belonging to a particular group, and is used for gaming. A plurality of gaming devices that can be given to a player, a gaming machine and a gaming device that are communicable, and are in an operating state in which the player is playing or a non-operating state in which the player is not playing Is a gaming system having a management computer capable of grasping for each gaming machine, and reserves the gaming machine in the first period in which any of the specific gaming machines is inactive When an operation is performed, a gaming device corresponding to any of the specific gaming machines that are in a non-operating state is identified with a reservation execution means that can shift to a booking state corresponding to the gaming device for which the booking operation has been performed. All of the gaming machines are in operation In the second period, standby game storage means for sequentially storing the gaming devices for which the reservation operation has been performed as standby gaming devices, and the gaming device is a player of a gaming machine corresponding to the gaming device. Is provided at an operable position, and the total number of standby game devices stored in the standby table storage means can be displayed. The reservation execution means stores the standby game devices in the second period, and thereafter When any of the specific gaming machines shifts to the non-operating state, the specific state is set to the reserved state corresponding to the standby gaming device that is initially reserved among the standby gaming devices stored in the standby table storage means. Ri migratable der the gaming device corresponding to the gaming machine, a determination unit configured predetermined extended condition it is determined whether or not a condition is satisfied in the game machine, apparatus for standby game stored in the standby table storage means The first reservation operation is If extended condition in the gaming machine corresponding to a waiting game device is determined to be established, the first reserved engineered for standby gaming machine, the standby base storage means as a first reserved engineered waiting for a game device For the game corresponding to the non-operating specific gaming machine in the reserved state corresponding to the standby gaming device that has been reserved for the second or later among the standby gaming devices stored in the standby table storage means while maintaining further comprising a sequence changing means is capable migrated device.

  According to the above configuration, a gaming device (hereinafter referred to as “reserved gaming device”) corresponding to one of the non-operating specific gaming machines is designated as a gaming device (hereinafter referred to as “reserved”). It is possible to shift to a reservation state (a state in which only the reservation source player can use it, a state in which the machine number of the reservation source gaming machine is displayed, etc.) according to the “original game device”). The gaming device is provided at a position where the player of the gaming machine corresponding to the gaming device can operate (for example, a position in contact with the gaming machine). Therefore, the player performs a reservation operation in the game hall where the gaming machine is installed. Therefore, a fraudulent act in which a player who does not actually come to the game hall reserves a gaming machine in a meaningless manner is suppressed.

  Further, in a configuration in which a gaming device is provided at a position that can be operated by a player, the player can perform a reservation operation while playing other gaming machines. Therefore, the convenience is improved as compared with a configuration in which a reservation operation cannot be performed during a game (for example, a configuration in which a device that accepts a reservation operation is separated from the gaming machine).

  Further, according to the reservation execution means of the present invention, when any one of the specific gaming machines shifts to the non-operating state, the standby game stored in the standby storage means is stored in the gaming device corresponding to the specific gaming machine. It is possible to shift to a reservation state corresponding to the standby game device that is initially reserved among the game devices. According to the above configuration, even if the specific gaming machine has no vacancies, if the reservation operation is performed, the reservation of the specific gaming machine can be automatically made when the vacancy occurs. Accordingly, the player can wait for the turn of the specific gaming machine while playing a game, and the effect of improving convenience is particularly remarkable.

  By the way, even if the game device has a configuration in which a reservation operation can be performed, a fraudulent act in which a person who does not actually play a game reserves a gaming machine without meaning is not completely excluded. In consideration of the above circumstances, as a preferred example of the first aspect, the gaming device can accept a storage medium including a first storage medium in which identification information for identifying a player is stored. When the device accepts the first storage medium, a configuration including first validation means for validating a reservation operation for the gaming device can be considered. In the first storage medium described above, the owner is specified from the identification information. Therefore, when an illegal reservation operation is performed using the first storage medium, the person who performed the illegal reservation operation is easily identified. Therefore, deterrence works against the fraud.

  As a preferred example of the first aspect, the storage medium includes a second storage medium in which identification information is not stored. When the gaming device accepts the second storage medium, the second storage medium has a valuable value. A game medium can be given on the condition that it is stored, and when the gaming device accepts the second storage medium, on the condition that the valuable value is stored in the second storage medium, Second validating means for validating a reservation operation for the gaming apparatus is provided.

  With the above configuration, even a player who does not have the first storage medium (member card) storing the identification information can make a reservation operation using the second storage medium (visitor card). There is. However, in the configuration in which the reservation operation can be performed using the second storage medium, an illegal act in which a person who does not actually play a game reserves a gaming machine without meaning can be promoted. In view of the above circumstances, in the preferred example, the reservation operation is validated on the condition that the valuable value is stored in the second storage medium. When a valuable value is stored in the second storage medium, a game medium can be given, so that it is assumed that a person using the second storage medium has an intention to play a game. Therefore, a fraudulent act in which a person who does not actually play a game reserves a gaming machine without meaning is suppressed.

  As a preferred example of the first aspect, the gaming device can display the number of specific gaming machines that are not in operation among the specific gaming machines belonging to a specific group. According to the above configuration, the player can check the number of vacancies in the specific gaming machine while playing the game.

  As a preferred example of the first aspect, a reservation-source gaming device that has been subjected to a reservation operation can discharge the storage medium after storing specific information that can identify the reservation-source gaming device in the storage medium. The reservation-destination gaming device that has entered the reservation state by the reservation operation receives a storage medium storing specific information that can identify the reservation-source gaming device for which the reservation operation has been performed. Media can be given. In the above configuration, only a player who has made a reservation operation can use the reservation destination gaming apparatus. Therefore, the inconvenience that a player who has not made a reservation operation plays (interrupts) using the reservation destination gaming apparatus is suppressed.

  By the way, when the reservation source gaming machine shifts to the big hit state, the player of the reservation source gaming machine may stop the game immediately and cannot move to the reservation destination gaming machine. In the above case, there may be an inconvenience that the reserved gaming machine is left in the reserved state for a long period of time. In consideration of the above circumstances, as a preferred example of the first mode, a game corresponding to the standby game device that is initially reserved among the standby game devices stored in the standby table storage means in the second period When the machine is in a special gaming state (big hit state) that is more advantageous than the normal gaming state, it corresponds to the standby gaming device that has been reserved for the second or later of the standby gaming devices stored in the standby table storage means. A first order changing means is provided that can shift a gaming device corresponding to a specific gaming machine in a non-operating state to a reserved state. According to the above configuration, the above-described inconvenience is suppressed.

  In addition, after a reservation operation is performed, for example, when an effect (reach effect, etc.) that is highly likely to be won in the big hit state is being executed on the reservation-source gaming machine, depending on the player, There is a possibility of not moving. In the above case, there may be an inconvenience that the reserved gaming machine is left in the reserved state for a long period of time. In consideration of the above circumstances, as a preferred example of the first aspect, a specific gaming machine in a reserved state corresponding to a standby gaming device that is initially reserved among the standby gaming devices stored in the standby table storage means If a predetermined length of time has elapsed after the game device has been transferred, and if the storage medium is not ejected from the standby game device that was initially reserved, two of the standby game devices Second order changing means is provided that can shift the gaming device of the specific gaming machine to a reserved state corresponding to the standby gaming device that has been reserved for the first and subsequent times. When the period during which the storage medium is not ejected from the reservation source gaming device reaches a predetermined time length (for example, 5 minutes), it is estimated that the game is continued for a while on the reservation source gaming machine. According to the above configuration, the above-described inconvenience is suppressed.

  As a preferred example of the first aspect, when a predetermined length of time has elapsed since the gaming device entered the reservation state, the storage medium ejected from the gaming device on which the reservation operation was performed is When the game device in the state is not accepted, a reservation canceling means capable of canceling the reservation state is provided. If the storage medium ejected from the reserved gaming device is not accepted by the reserved gaming device for a long period (for example, 10 minutes), it is presumed that a person who has no intention of gaming performed an illegal booking operation. The According to the above configuration, the inconvenience of illegally reserved gaming machines being left for a long time is suppressed.

The gaming system according to the second aspect of the present invention is provided corresponding to each of a plurality of gaming machines including a specific gaming machine belonging to a specific group, and a plurality of gaming media used for gaming can be given to the player. For each gaming machine, it is possible to communicate with other gaming devices, gaming machines and gaming devices, and whether the player is in an operating state or a non-operating state in which the player is not playing. A gaming system comprising a management computer that can be grasped, and when a reservation operation is performed on a gaming device in a first period when any of the specific gaming machines is in a non-operating state, the non-operating state Reservation execution means that can shift a gaming device corresponding to any one of the specific gaming machines to a booking state corresponding to the gaming device on which the reservation operation is performed, and all of the specific gaming machines are in an operating state. In the second period, reservation operation Standby table storage means for sequentially storing the gaming devices that have been deleted as standby gaming devices, and the gaming devices are provided at positions where the player of the gaming machine corresponding to the gaming device can operate. At the same time, the total number of standby gaming devices stored in the standby table storage means can be displayed, and the reservation execution means stores the standby gaming devices in the second period, and then any one of the specific gaming machines A gaming device corresponding to the specific gaming machine in the reserved state corresponding to the standby gaming device that is initially reserved among the standby gaming devices stored in the standby table storage means when transitioning to the non-operating state Of the standby game device stored in the standby table storage means and the determination means for determining whether or not a predetermined extension condition is satisfied in the standby game device. Extended with standby gaming equipment When it is determined that the condition is satisfied, the standby game device that has been initially reserved is stored in the standby table storage means while being maintained in the standby table storage means as the standby game device that has been initially reserved. An order changing means capable of transferring a gaming device corresponding to a specific gaming machine in a non-operating state to a reservation state corresponding to a standby gaming device that has been reserved for the second or later of the waiting gaming devices being In addition .

According to the above 2nd aspect, there exists an effect similar to the above-mentioned 1st aspect .

  According to the present invention, an illegal act in which a player who does not actually come to a game arcade reserves a gaming machine without meaning is suppressed.

It is a figure for demonstrating each game machine installed in the game hall. It is a figure for demonstrating each structure of the system for games. It is a figure for demonstrating the various storage area provided for every group. It is a figure for demonstrating the specific example at the time of transfering to a reservation state. It is a figure for demonstrating the specific example when extension conditions or cancellation conditions are satisfied. It is a figure for demonstrating reservation operation. It is a flowchart of the reservation reception process of a game device. It is a flowchart of the reservation management process of the management computer. It is a flowchart of a process during standby state and a vacancy detection process of the management computer. It is a flowchart of a reservation state process of the management computer. It is a figure for demonstrating 2nd Embodiment. It is a figure for demonstrating 3rd Embodiment.

<First Embodiment>
FIG. 1 is a diagram for explaining each gaming machine 100 installed in a game arcade. FIG. 1 shows a part of each gaming machine 100 installed in a game arcade. As shown in FIG. 1, each gaming machine 100 is divided into islands L (1, 2, 3). In the specific example of FIG. 1, 16 gaming machines 100 are installed on each of the islands L. As shown in FIG. 1, between each island L, a passage through which a player or a game clerk passes is provided. A chair (not shown) is provided for each gaming machine 100 in the passage. For example, the passage between the island L1 and the island L2 is provided with eight gaming machine 100 chairs on the island L1 and eight gaming machine 100 chairs on the island L2.

  A plurality of types of gaming machines 100 (x, y) are provided in the game hall. Each gaming machine 100 of the present embodiment includes a gaming machine 100x and a gaming machine 100y. As shown in FIG. 1, four gaming machines 100x are provided on the island L1 and four on the island L2. That is, a total of eight gaming machines 100x are provided. Further, five gaming machines 100y are provided on the island L3.

  The gaming machine 100 is provided with a game area (not shown) in which a game ball is launched. The game area is provided with a plurality of game nails for changing the course of the game ball and a plurality of winning holes for the game ball to drop (win). When the game ball wins the winning opening, the game ball is given to the player as a prize ball. In addition, when a game ball wins a specific winning opening (so-called start winning opening), whether or not a big hit state is determined by lottery. When the big hit is won, the gaming machine 100 shifts to the big hit state. In the big hit state, it becomes advantageous for the player as compared with the normal state before the transition to the big hit state. Specifically, a special prize opening (so-called attacker) is provided in the game area. The number of prize balls given when a game ball wins a special prize opening is greater than the number of prize balls given when a game ball wins another prize opening. In the big hit state, the game ball can be won in the special winning opening.

  As shown in FIG. 1, each gaming device 200 is installed in the game hall. In the present embodiment, one gaming device 200 is provided for one gaming machine 100. Specifically, the gaming device 200 is provided at a position where a player playing a game on the gaming machine 100 corresponding to the gaming device 200 can be operated. In the specific example of FIG. 1, the gaming apparatus 200 is provided adjacent to the left side of the gaming machine 100 to which the gaming apparatus 200 corresponds.

  A game ball is supplied to each island L from a game ball supply device (not shown). The game balls supplied to the island L are supplied to each of the gaming machine 100 and the gaming device 200. The gaming device 200 lends a gaming ball to the gaming machine 100 corresponding to the gaming device 200 in accordance with the player's operation.

  As will be described in detail later, the gaming device 200 of the present embodiment accepts a reservation operation for reserving a specific gaming machine (the gaming machine 100x, the gaming machine 100y) among the gaming machines 100. The player can perform a reservation operation during the game. According to the above configuration, it is possible to secure a destination gaming machine during a game. A reserved gaming machine can only be played by a player who has made a reservation operation.

  FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining the gaming system S. As shown in FIG. The gaming system S includes a gaming machine 100, a gaming device 200, and a management computer 300. The gaming machine 100 and the gaming device 200 are connected to be communicable. The gaming machine 100 can play a game when connected to the gaming device 200. The management computer 300 can communicate with each gaming machine 100 and each gaming device 200 via the base adapter 400. For example, the gaming machine 100 transmits a jackpot signal to the gaming device 200 when the gaming machine 100 shifts to the jackpot state.

  The game balls that have been launched into the game area of the gaming machine 100 finally fall into the out ball counting device 600. The out ball counting device 600 is provided inside the island L. A signal from the out ball counting device 600 is input to the management computer 300 via the base adapter 400. The management computer 300 determines whether or not each gaming machine 100 is being played in accordance with a signal from the out ball counting device 600 (step S407 in FIG. 9B). The game balls counted by the out ball counting device 600 are then supplied again to the island L by the above-described game ball supply device.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the gaming apparatus 200 includes a bill insertion slot 201, an operation panel 202, a game ball lending button 203a, a ball use button 203b, a card ejection button 203c, a game ball dispensing apparatus 204, and a card insertion slot 205. It is done.

  Either the member card CA or the visitor card CB can be inserted into the card insertion slot 205. One membership card CA is given to one player, and identification information that can identify the player is stored. A player having a membership card CA (member player) brings the membership card to the game arcade, inserts the membership card CA into the gaming device 200, and plays the game on the gaming machine 100 corresponding to the gaming device 200. do. On the other hand, the visitor card CB does not store identification information. The visitor card CB is inserted in advance in the gaming machine 100 by a game shop clerk.

  Hereinafter, the member card CA and the visitor card CB may be collectively referred to as “card C”. When the card C is inserted into the card insertion slot 205, the gaming apparatus 200 can rent game balls. For example, the card C can store the balance information. When the balance information is larger than the numerical value “0”, the game ball can be lent. Specifically, when the game ball lending button 203 a is operated when the balance information is larger than the numerical value “0”, the game ball is paid out from the game ball payout device 204.

  A bill can be inserted into the bill insertion slot 201. When a bill is inserted, the balance information of the card C is added according to the type (amount) of the bill. The game ball payout device 204 of this embodiment pays out 125 game balls each time the game ball lending button 203a is operated. Further, every time the game ball lending button 203a is operated, the remaining amount information for 500 yen is subtracted. In other words, it can be said that one game ball is lent out per 4 yen. Note that the number of game balls paid out by the game ball payout device 204 can be changed by the administrator of the game machine. For example, it is possible to pay out 500 game balls each time the game ball rental button 203a is operated. In other words, it can be said that one game ball is lent out per yen.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the game counting apparatus 500 is connected to the gaming apparatus 200. The possession ball counting device 500 counts the game balls paid out as prize balls by the gaming machine 100. For example, when a lot of game balls are acquired in the big hit state, the player throws a part or all of the game balls into the ball counting device 500. The game balls thrown into the possession ball counting device 500 are counted as possession balls. The counted possessed balls are added to the possessed ball information. When the possessed ball information is larger than the numerical value “0”, when the possessed ball use button 203 b is operated, the game ball is paid out from the game ball payout device 204. The game balls that have been paid out are subtracted from the possession ball information. In the present embodiment, the same number of game balls is paid out when the game ball lending button 203a is operated and when the possession ball use button 203b is operated.

  In the present embodiment, the card C is inserted into the gaming device 200, the balance information or possession information of the card C can be added, and the game ball using the balance information or possession information of the card C May be described as “the gaming device 200 has received the card C”.

  The membership card CA and the visitor card CB have different periods during which they can be discharged from the gaming device 200. Specifically, the membership card CA can be freely discharged from the gaming device 200 regardless of the values of the balance information and possession information. On the other hand, the visitor card CB can be discharged from the gaming device 200 when either the balance information or the possession information is greater than or equal to the set value, and when both the balance information and the possession information are less than the set value, Unable to eject from device 200. In this embodiment, the set value of the balance information that allows the visitor card CB to be discharged is a numerical value “500”. The set value of the possession information is a numerical value “125”.

  As will be described in detail later, the gaming apparatus 200 of the present embodiment can accept a reservation operation for reserving another gaming machine 100 during a period in which the card C can be ejected. Hereinafter, a period during which a reservation operation can be accepted may be referred to as a “reservable period”.

  Note that the set values of the balance information and possession information that allow the visitor card CB to be discharged can be changed as appropriate. However, in the case where the set values of the balance information and the possession information are too small, there is a problem when the player loses the visitor card CB. Specifically, when the visitor card CB is lost, it is necessary to purchase the visitor card CB on the game hall side. If the visitor card CB can be purchased for 500 yen, and the balance information and the possession information setting value that allows the visitor card CB to be discharged is a numerical value “0”, the visitor card CB has been lost. Loss on the playground side due to will be 500 yen. On the other hand, when the setting value of the balance information is set to the value “500” and the setting value of the possession information is set to the value “125” (game balls for 500 yen), there is substantially no loss on the game hall side. As understood from the above description, the balance information and the possession information can be functioned as a so-called “deposit”. In addition, when the setting value of the balance information and possession information is set too small, a person who does not intend to play the game illegally makes a reservation operation using the visitor card CB, and then discharges the visitor card CB from the playground. It becomes easier for the cheating to leave. The set values of the balance information and the possession information are preferably set to numerical values that prevent the above fraud.

  The operation panel 202 is operated by a player. The operation panel 202 includes a display unit (for example, a liquid crystal display unit) and a sensor unit. The display unit displays various images. For example, various images including button images (see FIG. 6 described later) are displayed on the display unit. The sensor unit detects a position pressed by the player's finger on the operation panel 202 (display unit). For example, it is assumed that a button image is displayed on the display unit. When the button image display position on the operation panel 202 is pressed, processing corresponding to the button image is executed. As will be described in detail later, the operation panel 202 accepts a player's reservation operation.

  FIG. 3A is a diagram for explaining each group T (Tx, Ty) of each gaming machine 100. In FIG. 3A, it is assumed that the island L (1-3) shown in FIG. 1 is viewed from above. In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 3A, among the gaming machines 100, four gaming machines 100x installed on the island L1 and four gaming machines 100x installed on the island L2 are group Tx. are categorized. Of the gaming machines 100, the five gaming machines 100y installed on the island L3 are classified into the group Ty. In the following, for the sake of explanation, each gaming machine 100x classified into the group Tx may be described as N1 to N8.

  In the present embodiment, the reservation operation is executed with any one of the groups T as a reservation target. The gaming machines 100 belonging to each group T can be appropriately changed by operating the management computer 300, for example. For example, a configuration in which a group T of gaming machines 100 (so-called “new stands”) that have just been installed in a game arcade is provided is suitably employed.

  FIG. 3B is a conceptual diagram of the group state storage area J. The group state storage area J is provided for each group T and is used by the management computer 300. For example, the group state storage area J is provided in the storage area included in the management computer 300. Various information is stored in the above storage area in a nonvolatile manner, and is retained even during a period when the power supply of the management computer 300 is shut off. For example, a backup memory or a hard disk is preferably employed. FIG. 3B illustrates the group state storage area J of the group Tx. As shown in FIG. 3B, the group state storage area J includes a plurality of state storage areas j (1 to 8). Each of the state storage areas j corresponds to each of the gaming machines 100. For example, the state storage area j1 in FIG. 3B corresponds to the N1 series in the gaming machine 100x. Similarly, each of the state storage areas j2 to j8 corresponds to each of the N2 series to the N8 series.

  The state storage area j is updated to “operating state”, “non-operating state”, or “reserved state”. For example, when the management computer 300 determines that the player is playing a game on the gaming machine 100, the state storage area j of the gaming machine 100 is updated to “operating state”. On the other hand, when the management computer 300 determines that the player is not playing a game on the gaming machine 100, the state storage area j of the gaming machine 100 is updated to “non-operating state”. Further, as will be described in detail later, when the gaming device 200 corresponding to the gaming machine 100 shifts to the reserved state, the state storage area j of the gaming machine 100 is updated to “reserved state”.

  In the present embodiment, for the sake of explanation, the fact that the state storage area j is in the operating state may be described as the gaming machine 100 and the gaming apparatus 200 corresponding to the state storage area j being in the operating state. . Further, the fact that the state storage area j is in a non-operating state may be described as the gaming machine 100 and the gaming apparatus 200 corresponding to the state storage area j being in a non-operating state. Similarly, the fact that the state storage area j is in the reserved state may be described as the gaming machine 100 corresponding to the state storage area j being in the reserved state. In the present embodiment, for the sake of explanation, in each figure (FIGS. 3 to 5), each state storage area j is displayed in a pattern according to the state indicated by the state storage area j. For example, in the specific example of FIG. 3B, the N2 series is in a non-operating state, the N7 series is in a reserved state, and the other than the N2 and N7 series are in an operating state.

  FIG. 3C is a conceptual diagram of the group reservation table storage area R. Similar to the group status storage area J, the group reservation storage area R is provided for each group T. In addition, the group reservation table storage area R is provided, for example, in the storage area of the management computer 300 in the same manner as the group status storage area J described above. FIG. 3C illustrates the group reservation table storage area R of the group Tx.

  As shown in FIG. 3C, the group reservation table storage area R includes a plurality of reservation table storage areas r (1 to 8). Each of the reserved table storage areas r corresponds to each of the gaming machines 100. For example, the reserved table storage area r1 in FIG. 3C corresponds to the N1 series in the gaming machine 100x. Similarly, each of the reserved table storage area r2 to the reserved table storage area r8 corresponds to each of the N2 series to the N8 series. In other words, each of the reserved table storage areas r (1-8) corresponds to each of the above-described state storage areas j (1-8).

  In the reserved table storage area r, machine number information that can identify the gaming device 200 (reservation source) that has accepted the reservation operation is stored. Specifically, when the gaming apparatus 200 accepts a reservation operation, the gaming apparatus 200 transmits reservation source information that can identify the machine number information of the gaming apparatus 200 to the management computer 300. When receiving the reservation source information, the management computer 300 can store the machine number information specified by the reservation source information in the reservation base storage area r. However, at the time of receiving the reservation source information, if there is no vacant vehicle in the group T to be reserved, the machine number information specified by the reservation source information is stored in the matrix storage area W (FIG. 3D) described later. Once it is stored, it is stored in the reserved table storage area r when a vacancy occurs.

  When the management computer 300 stores the reservation source machine number information in the reservation machine storage area r, the management computer 300 transmits a reservation confirmation signal to the reservation source game device 200. When the gaming apparatus 200 receives a reservation confirmation signal, it shifts to a confirmed state. In other words, the reservation table storage area r stores the table number information of the gaming apparatus 200 that has entered the confirmed state. In the specific example of FIG. 3C, a case is shown in which the unit number information of the M1 series (reservation source) in the confirmed state is stored in the reservation table storage area r7 of the N7th series (reservation destination).

  When the reservation-source gaming device 200 shifts to the finalized state, it stores the card number information that can identify the gaming device 200 in the card C.

  When the reservation source number information is stored in the reservation table storage area r, the state storage area j corresponding to the reservation table storage area r is updated to the reservation state. That is, the state storage area j of the reserved gaming machine 100 is updated to the reserved state. When the management computer 300 updates the state storage area j to the reservation state, the management computer 300 transmits the reservation source information that can identify the reservation source machine number information to the reservation destination gaming device 200. The gaming device 200 shifts to the reservation state when the reservation source information is received.

  When the card C is inserted, the gaming device 200 of the reservation destination determines whether or not the reservation source machine number information specified by the reservation source signal described above matches the machine number information of the card C. . The reservation-destination gaming apparatus 200 accepts the card C when determining that the machine number information matches. On the other hand, if the machine number information does not match, the card C is ejected. According to the above configuration, the gaming device 200 cannot be used except for the card C discharged from the reservation-source gaming device 200 (the card C of the player who made the booking operation).

  Further, the gaming device 200 does not accept the deposit from the bill insertion slot 201 when in the reserved state. When the card C discharged from the reservation-source gaming device 200 is inserted into the reservation-destination gaming device 200, the reservation state of the reservation-destination gaming device 200 is released. When the reservation state is cancelled, it is possible to deposit money from the bill insertion slot 201. In the above-described embodiment, only the player of the reservation-source gaming machine 100 can play (substantially) a game on the reservation-destination gaming machine 100. Note that the state storage area j of the gaming device 200 is maintained in an operating state until a predetermined time length (for example, 5 minutes) elapses after the gaming device 200 receives the card C.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, the player can select any of the groups T by a reservation operation, and the group T selected by the reservation operation is a reservation target. If any of the gaming machines 100 of the group T that are the target of reservation are in a non-operating state (when there are vacancies), any of the non-operating gaming machines 100 are immediately in a reservation state. However, when all the gaming machines 100 of the group T that are the target of the reservation are in an operating state (when there is no vacancy), the reservation state cannot be immediately entered.

  Assume that the reservation operation can be accepted only when there is a vacancy in the group T to be reserved. In the above comparison, the player needs to wait until the reservation operation becomes possible when there is no vacancy in the group T for which the reservation is desired. Therefore, it is assumed that some players may return from the game hall before making a reservation operation. Further, in the above-described comparison, it is necessary to always care whether or not vacancies have occurred in the group T that wants to make a reservation, which may cause inconvenience that the game cannot be concentrated.

  In consideration of the above circumstances, the gaming device 200 according to the present embodiment is configured to accept a reservation operation even when all the gaming machines 100 of the group T that is a reservation target are in an operating state. It was. When the reservation target group T has no vacancies, the gaming device 200 that has accepted the reservation operation shifts to a standby state. For example, it is assumed that a reservation operation for the group Tx is performed and the gaming apparatus 200 shifts to a standby state. In the above case, when any gaming machine 100x shifts to the non-operating state, the gaming device 200 of the gaming machine 100x automatically shifts to the reserved state. According to the above configuration, the above-described inconvenience is suppressed. The configuration of the above embodiment will be described in detail below.

  FIG. 3D is a conceptual diagram of the matrix storage area W. The matrix storage area W is provided, for example, in the storage area of the management computer 300 in the same manner as the group state storage area J and the group reservation table storage area R described above. Further, the matrix storage area W is provided for each group T. As shown in FIG. 3D, the matrix storage area W is configured to include the standby base storage area w1 to the standby base storage area wn (n is a positive integer). As described above, when there is no vacancy in the reservation target group T at the time when the reservation operation is performed, the gaming apparatus 200 as the reservation source shifts to a standby state. In each of the stand-by storage areas w (1 to n), stand number information that can identify the game device 200 in the stand-by state is stored. Specifically, the unit number information is stored in the order from the standby table storage area w1 to the standby table storage area wn in the order in which the reservation operation is performed.

  In the specific example of FIG. 3D, it is assumed that a reservation operation is performed in the order of M1, M2, M3. When a vacant base is generated in the reservation target group T, the machine number information stored in the standby base storage area w1 is stored in the reserved base storage area r corresponding to the gaming machine 100 that has shifted to the non-operating state. That is, when a vacancy occurs in the group T to be reserved, the gaming device 200 that has first shifted to the standby state shifts to the confirmed state. When the machine number information is stored in the reserved machine storage area r, the matrix storage area W is updated. Specifically, the standby table storage area wm (m is an integer from 2 to n) is overwritten with the standby table storage area wm-1.

  FIG. 4A to FIG. 4C are diagrams for explaining a specific example until the gaming machine 100 is actually reserved. 4 (a) to 4 (c), similarly to the above-described FIG. 3 (b) and FIG. 3 (c), the group state storage area J (state storage areas j1 to j8) and the group reservation of the group Tx. A table storage area R (reserved table storage areas r1 to r8) is shown. 4A to 4C show the matrix storage area W (standby table storage area w) at each time point.

  FIG. 4A shows a specific example when a reservation operation for the group Tx is performed during a period in which all the gaming machines 100x of the group Tx are in an operating state. In the above case, as shown in FIG. 4A, the state storage areas j of all the gaming machines 100 in the group Tx indicate the operating state. Further, in the specific example of FIG. 4A, it is assumed that the reservation operation is performed in the order of M1 and M2, and the gaming devices 200 of M1 and M2 are in a standby state. In the above case, the M1 unit number information is stored in the standby table storage region w1 of the standby table storage region w, and the M2 unit number information is stored in the standby table storage region w2.

  FIG. 4B assumes a case where the N3 series in the gaming machine 100x shifts to a non-operating state in a period after the specific example of FIG. 4A. In the above case, as shown in FIG. 4B, the state storage area j3 is updated to the non-operating state. In the specific example of FIG. 4 (b), as in the specific example of FIG. 4 (a), the unit number information is stored in the standby table storage area w1 (that is, there is a gaming device 200 in the standby state). In the case described above, the state storage area j3 of the N3 series in the non-operating state is immediately updated to the reserved state. The state storage area j may be directly updated from the operating state to the reserved state (without being updated to the non-operating state).

  FIG. 4C shows a specific example immediately after the state storage area j is updated to the reserved state. In the specific example of FIG. 4C, it is assumed that the N3 series of the gaming machines 100x of the group Tx has shifted to the reserved state. Further, in the specific example of FIG. 4C, as in the specific example of FIG. 4B described above, before the N3 series shifts to the reserved state, the M1 series shifts to the standby state in the order of the M2 series. Assuming that In the above case, among the M1 and M2 units in the standby state, the unit number information of the M1 unit that first shifted to the standby state is stored in the reserved storage area r3. Therefore, the N1 series is reserved by the M1 series players.

  As described above, when the table number information is stored in the reserved table storage area r, the matrix storage area W is updated. That is, when the gaming apparatus 200 shifts from the standby state to the confirmed state, the matrix storage area W is updated. Specifically, the standby table storage area wm (m is an integer from 2 to n) is overwritten with the standby table storage area wm-1. For example, in the specific example of FIG. 4C, the standby base storage area w1 is overwritten with the base number information “M2” stored in the standby base storage area w2. Further, since the stand number information is not stored in the stand base storage area w3 before the stand number information is stored in the reserved stand storage area r, the stand base storage area w2 is cleared.

  Each gaming machine 100 is installed facing the passage (see FIG. 1). Therefore, if a large number of players are lined up in the vicinity of the gaming machine 100 and wait in turn, there may be a disadvantage that disturbs pedestrians in the passage. According to the present embodiment, when a reservation operation is performed, it is possible to wait for the order of the group T while playing with other gaming machines 100. Therefore, for example, it is not necessary to wait behind the gaming machine 100 that desires a game and wait for the gaming machine 100 to be in a non-operating state. Further, according to the present embodiment, for example, the operating rate of the entire game arcade can be improved as compared with a configuration in which other gaming machines 100 are not allowed to wait in turn while playing.

  However, in a configuration in which another gaming machine 100 can be in a reserved state while playing with the gaming machine 100, a so-called “holding game” may be a problem. For example, if the player of the reservation source gaming machine 100 does not play a game for a long period of time on the reservation destination gaming machine 100 (when the player does not move to the reservation destination for a long period of time), However, there is a disadvantage that the game is not played.

  In consideration of the above circumstances, in the present embodiment, when the gaming machine 100 shifts to a reserved state by one player, and then a predetermined extension condition is satisfied, the other player is prior to the one player. The player can play a game on the gaming machine 100.

  In the present embodiment, the extension condition includes a case where the reservation-source gaming machine has shifted to the big hit state. In the above case, it is unlikely that the player of the reservation-source gaming machine 100 will immediately stop the game. Note that the extension condition may or may not be satisfied depending on the type of the big hit state.

  For example, in the big hit state, when a transition is made to a big hit state (for example, 16 round big hit) that ends in a relatively long time length, the extension condition is satisfied, and the big hit state (for example, two round big hit) ends in a relatively short time length. In the case of transition, the extension condition may not be satisfied. A player who has won a jackpot state that ends in a relatively short time can shift to the reserved gaming machine 100 in a relatively short period of time after shifting to the jackpot state. Therefore, if the extension condition is uniformly established regardless of the type of the big hit state, the player can move to the reservation-destination gaming machine 100 immediately, but the right to play with the reservation-destination gaming machine 100 is another player. The inconvenience of moving to is assumed. The above inconvenience is suppressed by adopting a configuration in which the extension condition is not satisfied in a relatively short big hit state.

  In the extension condition of this embodiment, the period from when the reservation-destination gaming machine 100 shifts to the reservation state until the card C of the reservation-source gaming device 200 is discharged exceeds a predetermined time length. Includes cases. For example, if the card C of the reservation-source gaming device 200 is not discharged even after five minutes have passed since the reservation-destination gaming machine entered the reservation state, the extension condition is satisfied. In the above case, it is estimated that the player of the gaming machine 100 as the reservation source does not want to stop the game of the gaming machine 100. As a reason for not wanting to stop the game, for example, it is assumed that an effect (reach effect or the like) that increases the degree of expectation that the big hit state is won is being executed by the gaming machine 100 that is the reservation source.

  Further, the extension condition of the present embodiment is a case where the reservation-source gaming device 200 accepts the visitor card CB, and both the possession information and the balance information of the visitor card CB are less than the above set values. This includes cases that have changed. As described above, the visitor card CB can be discharged on condition that at least one of the balance information and the possession information is equal to or greater than the set value. Further, when the visitor card CB is accepted, a reservation operation is possible when at least one of the balance information and the possession information is equal to or more than a set value. Therefore, immediately after the reservation operation is accepted, since at least one of the balance information and possession information of the visitor card CB is equal to or greater than the set value, the visitor card CB can be immediately discharged. However, after the reservation operation is accepted, when the balance information and possession information of the visitor card CB changes to less than the set value, the visitor card CB cannot be discharged. In the above case, for example, the visitor card CB can be discharged by depositing from the banknote insertion slot 201, but this becomes a problem when a long period of time is required. By providing the extension condition, the above problem is reduced.

  FIG. 5A-1 and FIG. 5A-2 are diagrams for explaining a specific example when any of the extension conditions is satisfied. 5 (a-1) and 5 (a-2), similarly to FIG. 4 described above, each state storage area j (1-8) and each reserved table storage area r of each gaming machine 100x of the group Tx. The conceptual diagram of (1-8) and each stand-by storage area w (1-n) is shown.

  In the specific example of FIG. 5 (a-1), it is assumed that among the gaming machines 100x of the group Tx, the N7 series is in the reserved state and the other gaming machines 100x are in the operating state. In the above case, among the state storage areas j, the state storage area j7 indicates a reserved state, and other than the state storage area j7 indicates an operating state. In the specific example of FIG. 5A-1, it is assumed that the reservation source of the N7 series (reservation destination) is the M1 series. In the above-described case, the M1 series machine number information is stored in the reserved machine storage area r7 in each reserved machine storage area r. Furthermore, in the specific example of FIG. 5 (a-1), it is assumed that the M2 series and the M3 series are in a standby state. Further, it is assumed that the M2 series shifts to a standby state before the M3 series. In the above case, the M2 series number information is stored in the standby table storage area w1, and the M3 series number information is stored in the standby table storage area w2.

  FIG. 5A-2 is a diagram for explaining a case where the extension condition is satisfied at the reservation source (M1 series) in the specific example of FIG. 5A-1 described above. In the above case, as shown in FIG. 5 (a-2), the M2 series machine number information is stored in the N7 series reserved machine storage area r7 that has become inoperative, instead of the M1 machine number information. The That is, the N7 series shifts from the reserved state in which the M1 player can play to the reserved state in which the M2 player can play.

  As shown in FIG. 5A-2, when the extension condition is satisfied, the standby table storage area w is updated. Specifically, the machine number information stored in the reserved machine storage area r (the machine number information of the gaming apparatus for which the extension condition is satisfied) is stored in the standby machine storage area w1 (the first standby machine storage area). The For example, in the specific example of FIG. 5 (a-2), the M1 machine number information stored in the reserved table storage area r before the extension condition is established is the standby table storage area w1 after the extension condition is established. Is remembered.

  In the above configuration, the gaming device 200 that has shifted to the confirmed state shifts (returns) to the standby state when the extension condition is satisfied. Further, the machine number information of the gaming apparatus 200 that has been returned to the standby state when the extension condition is satisfied is stored in the standby machine storage area w1. Therefore, when the vacancy occurs again in the group Tx, the gaming device 200 (M1 in the example of FIG. 5A-2) that has been returned to the standby state due to the extension condition is another gaming device in the standby state. Prior to 200 (the M3 range in the example of FIG. 5A-2), it is possible to shift to the confirmed state again.

  However, even when a vacant base is generated in the group Tx, the extension condition of the gaming apparatus 200 stored in the standby base storage area w1 may not be satisfied. In the above case, the gaming device 200 stored in the standby table storage area w2 shifts to the confirmed state prior to the gaming device 200 stored in the standby table storage area w1.

  For example, to explain using the specific example of FIG. 5A-2, it is assumed that the M1 game machine 100 has shifted to the big hit state, so that the M1st machine is returned from the confirmed state to the standby state. In the above case, when the vacancy occurs in the group Tx after that, when the big hit state of the M1 series is completed (when the extension condition is not satisfied), the M1 series shifts to the confirmed state. .

  On the other hand, when the big hit state of the M1 series is not completed (when the extension condition is not satisfied) at the time when the vacant stand is generated in the group Tx, the M3 series shifts to the confirmed state. However, the machine number information of the gaming apparatus 200 that has been returned from the confirmed state to the standby state is stored in the standby base storage area w1 until the extension condition is satisfied. In the above configuration, the transition to the finalized state of the gaming apparatus 200 is extended until the extension condition ends.

  Note that, depending on the extension condition, it can be established in the standby state before the transition to the confirmed state. In this embodiment, when an extension condition is satisfied in the gaming machine 100 in the standby table storage area w1 at the time when a vacancy occurs in the reservation target group T, the standby table storage area is ahead of the gaming machine 100. The gaming machine 100 of w2 shifts to the confirmed state. For example, when a gaming machine 100 in the standby table storage area w1 is in a big hit state when a vacancy occurs in the reservation target group T, the gaming machine 100 in the standby table storage area w2 is determined prior to the gaming machine 100. Transition to the state.

  In addition, when a vacancy occurs in the reservation target group T, the extension condition may be satisfied in both the gaming machine 100 in the standby storage area w1 and the gaming machine 100 in the standby storage area w2. . In the above case, the gaming machine in the standby table storage area w3 shifts to the confirmed state. That is, when the extension condition is satisfied from the standby base storage area w1 to the standby base storage area wm (2 ≦ m ≦ n), the standby base storage area wm + 1 shifts to a confirmed state.

  By the way, in the configuration in which the gaming machine 100 can be put into a reserved state, an unauthorized act is assumed in which a person who is not willing to play a game on the gaming machine 100 leaves the gaming machine 100 in a reserved state. In consideration of the above circumstances, in this embodiment, when there is a gaming machine 100 that has shifted to the reservation state, and when a predetermined cancellation condition is satisfied, the reservation state can be canceled. .

  In the present embodiment, the cancellation condition includes a case where the card C ejected from the reservation-source gaming device 200 is not accepted by the reservation-destination gaming device 200 beyond a predetermined time length. Specifically, if the card C is not received by the reservation-destination gaming device 200 for more than 10 minutes after the transition to the reservation state, the cancellation condition is satisfied. A configuration other than the above cancellation conditions may be adopted. Moreover, it is good also as a structure where multiple types of cancellation conditions are provided.

  FIG. 5B-1 and FIG. 5B-2 are diagrams for explaining a specific example when the cancellation condition is satisfied. 5 (b-1) and 5 (b-2), each gaming machine 100x of the group Tx is similar to each of the gaming machines 100x in the group Tx, as in FIGS. 4, 5a-1 and 5a-2. The conceptual diagram of state storage area j (1-8), each reservation stand storage area r (1-8), and each standby stand storage area w (1-n) is shown.

  In the specific example of FIG. 5 (b-1), among the gaming machines 100x in the group Tx, the N7 series is in the reserved state, the N4 series and the N6 series are in the non-operating state, and the other gaming machines 100x are in the operating state. Assume a case. In the above case, among the state storage areas j, the state storage area j7 indicates a reserved state. In the specific example of FIG. 5 (b-1), it is assumed that the reservation source of the N7 series (reservation destination) is the M1 series. In the above case, the number information indicating the M1 number is stored in the reserved table storage area r7 in each reserved table storage area r.

  FIG. 5B-2 is a diagram for explaining a case where the cancellation condition is satisfied in the specific example of FIG. 5B-1 described above. In the specific example of FIG. 5 (b-2), it is assumed that the cancellation condition for the N7th reservation is satisfied. In the above case, as shown in FIG. 5 (b-2), the N7th status storage area j7 is changed to the non-operating state, and the N7th reserved storage area r7 is cleared. According to the above configuration, a player other than the M1 player (reservation source) can play a game in the N7 series. When the cancellation condition is satisfied, unlike the case where the extension condition is satisfied, the table number state stored in the reserved table storage area r is not stored (moved) in the standby table storage area w.

  FIG. 6 is a diagram for explaining a reservation operation. FIG. 6 shows a simulated diagram of each image displayed on the operation panel 202 at each time before and after the reservation operation. FIG. 6A to FIG. 6F are specific examples when a reservation operation is performed using the membership card CA.

  FIG. 6A is a simulation diagram of the game image GA1. The in-game image GA1 is displayed when the member card CA is received by the gaming device 200. In the game image GA1, as shown in FIG. 6A, the possession ball information and the balance information stored in the member card CA are displayed. In the specific example of FIG. 6A, it is assumed that both the possession ball information and the balance information are less than a set value (specifically, a numerical value “0”). The possession ball information and the balance information may be configured to be hidden when a certain length of time elapses after the membership card CA is inserted. Moreover, it is good also as a structure which requires the input of a password, in order to display possession information and balance information.

  As shown in FIG. 6A, the in-game image GA1 includes a reservation button image Zy. The reservation button image Zy is operated (reservation operation) when the reservation of the gaming machine 100 is started. In the present embodiment, a reservation operation can be performed during a period in which the reservation button image Zy is displayed. That is, the period during which the reservation button image Zy is displayed is the above-described reservation available period. As described above, when the membership card CA is accepted by the gaming device 200, the reservation period is reached regardless of the possession information and the balance information. However, when a reservation operation is performed on the gaming apparatus 200 and the gaming apparatus 200 shifts to a standby state or a confirmed state, the reservation possible period ends.

  FIG. 6B is a conceptual diagram of the reserved image GY. The reservation image GY is displayed when the reservation button image Zy is operated. As shown in FIG. 6B, the reservation image GY includes a model selection button image Za and a model selection button image Zb. The model selection button image Za is operated when the group Tx is a reservation target. The model selection button image Zb is operated when the group Ty is a reservation target. As shown in FIG. 6B, the reservation image GY displays a message indicating that the model selection button image Z (a, b) corresponding to the group T desired to be reserved should be operated.

  In the reserved image GY, the number of empty spaces in each group T is displayed. For example, as shown in FIG. 6B, the reserved image GY displays the number of empty groups Tx. In the specific example of FIG. 6B, it is assumed that there are two vacancies in the group Tx. In the reserved image GY, the number of empty groups Ty is displayed. In the specific example of FIG. 6B, it is assumed that there is no empty space in the group Ty.

  FIG. 6C is a simulation diagram of the confirmed image GK1. The confirmed image GK1 is displayed when the desired gaming machine 100 can be reserved without shifting to the standby state. That is, the confirmed image GK1 is displayed when the state is shifted to the confirmed state. For example, as shown in FIG. 6C described above, when the model selection button image Za is operated during a period in which the group Tx has vacancies, one of the non-operating gaming machines 100x shifts to the reserved state. A confirmed image GK1 is displayed. As shown in FIG. 6C, information (for example, a machine number) that can identify the gaming machine 100 that has shifted to the reserved state by the current reservation operation is displayed in the confirmed image GK1.

  As shown in FIG. 6C, a message indicating that the card C inserted into the gaming device 200 should be ejected and moved to the reserved gaming machine 100 is displayed in the finalized image GK1. In addition, as shown in FIG. 6C, the limited time for moving to the reserved gaming machine 100 is displayed in the confirmed image GK1. In this embodiment, the movement limit time is 10 minutes. If it does not move to the reserved gaming machine 100 before the movement limit time elapses, the above cancellation condition is satisfied and the current reservation is cancelled. Specifically, if the reservation-destination gaming device 200 that has shifted to the reservation state does not accept the card C before the movement restriction time elapses after the confirmation image GK1 is displayed, the reservation destination game The reservation state of the device 200 is released. Note that when the confirmed image GK1 is displayed, a specific sound effect or sound (message) may be reproduced.

  FIG. 6D is a simulation diagram of the standby transition image GU. The standby shift image GU is displayed when the gaming device 200 shifts to the standby state. For example, as shown in FIG. 6C, when a reservation operation for the group Ty is performed during a period when the group Ty has no vacant space (when the model selection button image Zb is operated), The apparatus 200 shifts to a standby state, and a standby shift image GU is displayed. As shown in FIG. 6D, a message indicating that the standby state has been entered (a reservation operation has been accepted) is displayed on the standby transfer image GU.

  As shown in FIG. 6D, the standby number notification image Zk is displayed in the standby transition image GU. The standby number notifying image Zk is an image for notifying the current number of gaming devices 200 that are in a standby state for the group T that is a reservation target. According to the standby number notification image Zk described above, it is possible to predict the length of the waiting time until a game can be played on the gaming machine 100 of the group T that is a reservation target. The standby transition image GU is not displayed, for example, when a predetermined time length (for example, about 10 seconds) has elapsed.

  FIG. 6E is a simulation diagram of the game image GA2. The in-game image GA2 is displayed while the gaming device 200 is in a standby state. That is, the game image GA2 is displayed after the standby transition image GU shown in FIG. As understood from FIG. 6E, the in-game image GA2 displays the ball information and the balance information, similarly to the in-game image GA1 shown in FIG. 6A described above. However, the game image GA2 is different from the game image GA1 in that the reservation button image Zy described above is not displayed. In the gaming image GA2, a message indicating that the group T (model) selected by the previous reservation operation can be specified and that the gaming machine 100 of the group T is in a standby state for making a reservation state is displayed. Is displayed. According to the above game-in-progress image GA2, the reserved group T can be confirmed after the reservation operation.

  FIG. 6F is a simulation diagram of the confirmed image GK2. The confirmed image GK2 is displayed when the reservation-destination gaming machine 100 selected by the reservation operation shifts to the reservation state after shifting to the standby state by the reservation operation. That is, the confirmed image GK2 is displayed when the reservation source has shifted to the confirmed state, as in the above-described confirmed image GK1 (see FIG. 6C). The confirmed image GK2 displays the serial number information of the reservation-destination gaming machine 100 as in the above-described confirmed image GK1. In addition, a message indicating that the player should move to the reservation-destination gaming machine 100 within the movement limit time (10 minutes) is displayed on the confirmed image GK2.

  For example, when the standby state is prolonged, some players may forget that the reservation operation has been performed. Considering the above circumstances, a message indicating that the reservation destination has shifted to the reservation state is displayed on the finalized image GK2 of the present embodiment. Further, when the confirmed image GK2 is displayed, a specific sound effect or sound is reproduced with a volume that can be recognized by the player. According to the above configuration, the player can be surely recognized that the reservation destination has shifted to the reserved state (the reservation source has shifted to the confirmed state).

  FIGS. 6 (g) and 6 (h) are specific examples in the case where a reservation operation is performed in the case of playing using a visitor card CB. As described above, the reservation possible period is different between the case where the visitor card CB is used and the case where the member card CA is used. Therefore, the period in which the reservation button image Zy is displayed differs between when the visitor card CB is used and when the member card is used.

  FIG. 6G is a simulation diagram of the game image GA3. The in-game image GA3 is displayed when the visitor card CB is received by the gaming device 200. Specifically, the in-game image GA3 is displayed when a visitor card CB in which both the possession ball information and the balance information are less than a set value is received. The in-game image GA3 shows a specific example in which the possession ball information and the balance information are numerical values “0”, similar to the in-game image GA1 shown in FIG.

  As described above, when the membership card CA is used, the reservation period is reached regardless of the current values of the possession information and the balance information. Therefore, when the membership card CA is used, the reservation button image Zy is displayed even if the possession ball information and the balance information are less than the set values (see FIG. 6A). On the other hand, when the visitor card CB is used, the period in which the possession ball information and the balance information are less than the set value is not a reservation available period. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 6G, when the visitor card CB is used, the reservation button image Zy is not displayed when the possession information and the balance information are less than the set values.

  FIG. 6H is a simulation diagram of the game image GA4. The in-game image GA4 is displayed when either one or both of the possession ball information and the balance information is equal to or greater than a set value. In the specific example of FIG. 6H, it is assumed that the possession information is a numerical value “0” and the balance information is a numerical value “10000”. FIG. 6 (h) assumes a case in which a 10 million yen bill is inserted into the bill insertion slot 201 when using the visitor card CB whose value information and balance information are “0”.

  As described above, when the balance information of the visitor card CB is equal to or greater than the set value, the reservation period is entered. Therefore, when a banknote is inserted into the banknote insertion slot 201 (when the balance information is added to a numerical value “500” or more), the reservation button image Zy is displayed. Similarly, when the possession information of the visitor card CB becomes equal to or larger than the set value, the process proceeds to the reservation possible period. Therefore, when a possessed ball is inserted into the possessed ball counting device 500 (when the possessed ball information is added to the numerical value “125” or more), the reservation button image Zy is displayed.

  When playing with a visitor card CB and either or both of the possession information and balance information are more than the set value and both the possession information and balance information are less than the set value The reservation possible period ends and the reservation button image Zy disappears. On the other hand, even if one or both of the possession information and the balance information is equal to or higher than the set value, even if both the possession information and the balance information are less than the set value, a game is played using the member card CA. If so, the reservation button image Zy continues to be displayed because the reservation available period continues. The above is the description of each image displayed on the reservation source gaming device 200.

  FIG. 6 (i) is a simulation diagram of the reserved image GB. The reserved image GB is displayed on the gaming device 200 that is the reservation destination. Specifically, the reserved image GB is displayed during a period when the reservation-destination gaming device 200 is in a reservation state. When the reservation state of the reservation-destination gaming apparatus 200 is canceled due to the insertion of the card C ejected from the reservation-source gaming apparatus 200 or the like, the reserved image GB is not displayed. As shown in FIG. 6 (i), the reserved image GB is notified that the gaming device 200 is in the reserved state. In addition, a message indicating that a game should be played using the card C discharged from the reservation-source gaming device 200 is displayed.

  FIG. 7 is a flowchart of the reservation acceptance process of the gaming apparatus 200. When the gaming apparatus 200 starts the reservation acceptance process, it determines whether or not it is in a standby state (S110). That is, it is determined whether or not the reservation operation has already been received. When it is determined that it is in the standby state (S110: YES), the gaming device 200 ends the reservation receiving process. When it is determined that the gaming device 200 is not in the standby state (S110: NO), it is determined whether or not the member card CA is received (S120). If it is determined that the member card CA is received (S120: YES), the gaming device 200 proceeds to step S150 and displays the reservation button image Zy.

  When it is determined that the membership card CA is not accepted (S120: NO), that is, when the visitor card CB is accepted, the gaming device 200 has a balance value of the visitor card CB equal to or greater than a set value (numerical value “500”). It is determined whether or not (S130). When it is determined that the balance information of the visitor card CB is equal to or greater than the set value (S130: YES), the gaming device 200 proceeds to step S150 and displays the reservation button image Zy.

  When it is determined that the balance information of the visitor card CB is less than the set value (S130: NO), the gaming device 200 determines whether or not the possession information of the visitor card CB is greater than or equal to the set value (numerical value “125”). Is determined (S140). When it is determined that the possessed ball information is less than the set value (S140: NO), the gaming device 200 returns the process to step S120 described above. On the other hand, when it is determined that the possession ball information is greater than or equal to the set value (S140: YES), the gaming device 200 proceeds to step S150 and displays the reservation button image Zy.

  After displaying the reservation button image Zy in step S150, the gaming apparatus 200 determines whether or not a reservation operation has been started (S160). That is, the gaming apparatus 200 determines whether or not the reservation button image Zy has been operated. When it is determined that the reservation operation has not been started (S160: NO), the gaming device 200 repeatedly executes the process of step S160. On the other hand, when it is determined that the reservation operation is started (S160: YES), the gaming device 200 displays the reservation image GY (see FIG. 6B) (S170).

  After displaying the reservation image GY, the gaming device 200 determines whether or not a reservation operation has been performed (S180). That is, the gaming apparatus 200 determines whether any of the model selection button images Z (see FIG. 6B) has been operated. When it is determined that the reservation operation has not been performed (S180: NO), the gaming device 200 repeatedly executes step S180. On the other hand, when it is determined that a reservation operation has been performed (S180: YES), the gaming device 200 executes a reservation request process (S190).

  In the reservation request process, the gaming device 200 identifies the machine number information of the gaming device 200 and the model selection button image Z operated in step S190 described above (that is, the group T targeted for the reservation). Possible reservation source information is transmitted to the management computer 300. After executing the reservation request process, the gaming device 200 ends the reservation reception process.

  FIG. 8 is a flowchart of the reservation management process of the management computer 300. The management computer 300 controls the transition of each gaming device 200 to the reservation state and the standby state by the reservation management process. The management computer 300 executes a reservation management process for each group T that is a reservation target.

  When the reservation management process is started, the management computer 300 determines whether or not there is a gaming device 200 in a standby state (S201). Specifically, the management computer 300 determines whether or not the machine number information of the gaming apparatus 200 in the standby state is stored in the matrix storage area W (see FIG. 3D) of the target group T. . If it is determined that there is a gaming device 200 in the standby state (S201: YES), the management computer 300 proceeds to the standby state processing (S202).

  When it is determined in step S201 described above that there is no gaming device 200 in the standby state (S201: NO), the management computer 300 determines whether there is a gaming device 200 in the reserved state in the group T (S203). Specifically, the management computer 300 determines whether or not the serial number information of the gaming apparatus 200 in the reserved state is stored in the group reserved base storage area R (see FIG. 3C) of the group T. judge.

  When it is determined that there is no gaming device 200 in the reservation state (S203: NO), the management computer 300 ends the reservation management process. On the other hand, if it is determined that there is a gaming device 200 in the reserved state (S203: YES), the management computer 300 executes a reservation state process (S204). After executing the reservation state process, the management computer 300 ends the reservation management process.

  FIG. 9A is a flowchart of the standby state process (S202 in FIG. 8 described above) of the management computer 300. The waiting state process is executed for the group T targeted in the reservation management process (see FIG. 8). When the management computer 300 starts the standby state process, the management computer 300 executes an empty space detection process (S301). The vacancy detection process is a process for detecting a vacancy in the target group T (see FIG. 9B described later).

  When the vacancy detection process ends, the management computer 300 determines whether an vacancy is detected in the group T in the current vacancy detection process (S302). If it is determined that no vacancies have been detected (S302: NO), the management computer 300 ends the standby state process. On the other hand, if it is determined that an empty space has been detected (S302: YES), the management computer 300 determines whether the reservation-source gaming machine 100 is in a big hit state (S303). Specifically, the management computer 300 determines whether or not the gaming machine 100 having the table number information stored in the standby table storage area w1 of the matrix storage area W (see FIG. 3D) is in a big hit state. Determine whether. That is, in step S302, it is determined whether or not the extension condition is satisfied in the reservation-source gaming machine 100.

  When determining that the reservation-source gaming machine 100 is not in the big hit state (S303: NO), the management computer 300 executes a reservation confirmation process (S305). In the reservation confirmation process, the management computer 300 stores the machine number information stored in the standby table storage area w1 of the reservation target group T in the reserved table storage area r of the group T in the non-operating state. That is, the reservation-source gaming device 200 is shifted from the standby state to the confirmed state. Further, the state storage area j corresponding to the reserved table storage area r in which the table number information is stored is changed to the reserved state. That is, the reservation-destination gaming device 200 is shifted to the reservation state.

  When it is determined that the reservation-source gaming machine 100 is in a big hit state (S303: YES), the management computer 300 executes a reservation extension process (S304). In the reservation confirmation process described above, the machine number information stored in the standby table storage area w1 of the reservation target group T is stored in the reserved table storage area r. In the reservation extension process, it is stored in the standby table storage area w2. The machine number information is stored in the reserved machine storage area r, and the machine number information stored in the standby machine storage area w1 is maintained as it is (see FIGS. 5A-1 and 5A-2). That is, the gaming device 200 that has been reserved for the first time is maintained in a standby state, and the gaming device 200 that has been reserved for the second time is shifted to a confirmed state. After executing the reservation extension process or the reservation confirmation process, the management computer 300 ends the standby state process.

  FIG. 9B is a flowchart of the vacancy detection process of the management computer 300. The vacancy in the reservation target group T is detected by the vacancy detection process. When the vacancy detection process is started, the management computer 300 selects one gaming machine 100 from the reservation target group T (S401). The management computer 300 determines that the gaming machine 100 selected in step S401 is actually not based on various determinations in steps S (S402, S403, S405, S406, S408, S409) of the following vacancy detection processing. It is determined whether or not it is in an operating state.

  The management computer 300 determines whether or not the card C is ejected from the gaming device 200 of the gaming machine 100 selected in step S401 (S402). If it is determined that the card C has been ejected (S402: YES), the management computer 300 proceeds to operation detection processing in step S407.

  If the management computer 300 determines that the card C has not been ejected (S402: NO), the management computer 300 determines whether the balance information and possession information are numerical values “0” (S403). If it is determined that the balance information and possession information are not the numerical value “0” (S403: NO), the management computer 300 proceeds to step S411.

  When it is determined that the balance information and possession information are the numerical value “0” (S403: YES), the management computer 300 executes a waiting time calculation process. As described above, the game ball payout device 204 of the game device 200 pays out 125 game balls in one payout operation. In the waiting time calculation process, the waiting time is calculated in accordance with the time required for all of the game balls to be paid out in one payout operation to be consumed (launched). Specifically, in the gaming machine 100, about 100 game balls can be launched in one minute. Therefore, when 125 game balls are paid out by one payout operation, it takes about 1 minute 15 seconds until all the paid game balls are hit. The waiting time is determined to be a time length sufficiently longer than the time length required for all the game balls paid out in one payout operation to be hit. In this embodiment, when 125 game balls are paid out in one payout operation, the waiting time is determined to be about 2 minutes and 30 seconds. When the number of game balls to be paid out by one payout operation is changed, the waiting time calculated by the waiting time calculation process also changes. Specifically, the waiting time is a numerical value (minutes) obtained by dividing the number of game balls dispensed by the numerical value “50”.

  After executing the waiting time calculation process, the management computer 300 determines whether or not the balance information is newly added (whether bills are inserted) and whether or not the coin information is added (S405). . If it is determined that the balance information or possession information has been added (S405: YES), the management computer 300 proceeds to step S411. On the other hand, when it is determined that neither the balance information nor the possession information is added (S405: NO), the management computer 300 determines whether or not the waiting time calculated in the waiting time calculation process has elapsed. (S406). If it is determined that the waiting time has not elapsed (S406: NO), the management computer 300 returns the process to step S405. The management computer 300 repeats steps S405 and 406 until the waiting time elapses.

  On the other hand, when it is determined that the waiting time has elapsed (406: YES), the management computer 300 executes an operation detection process (S407). In the operation detection process, it is determined whether or not the gaming machine 100 is in a non-operating state based on the result counted by the out ball counting device 600 described above. Specifically, in the operation detection process, the management computer 300 determines that the gaming machine 100 does not count when a predetermined number (for example, 10) or more out balls are not counted in a predetermined time length (for example, 1 minute). Judged to be non-operating.

  In the operation detection process, it may be determined whether or not the non-operating state is achieved by another method. For example, a game shop clerk is allowed to have a remote control capable of transmitting a specific signal wirelessly. When it is determined that the gaming machine 100 is in a non-operating state, the game hall clerk transmits a specific signal to the gaming device 200 using the remote controller. When the gaming device 200 receives the specific signal, the gaming device 200 transmits a non-operation signal to the management computer 300. When the management computer 300 receives the non-operation signal, the management computer 300 determines that the gaming machine 100 corresponding to the gaming device 200 to which the non-operation signal is transmitted is in a non-operation state.

  After executing the non-operation detection process, the management computer 300 determines whether or not the non-operation state is determined in the non-operation detection process (S408). When it is determined that it is not in the non-operating state (S408: NO), the management computer 300 proceeds to Step 411. On the other hand, when it is determined that the player is not in operation (S408: YES), the management computer 300 determines whether or not the player has actually left the chair in front of the gaming machine 100 (S410). For the determination in step S410, a means for detecting a player sitting in a chair is required. As the above means, for example, a means for providing a photo sensor capable of detecting a player sitting in a chair in the gaming apparatus 200 is suitable. Moreover, you may employ | adopt the means which provides the heart rate sensor which can detect a player's heart rate in a chair.

  When it is determined that the player is seated on the chair (S410: NO), the management computer 300 proceeds to step S411. On the other hand, if it is determined that the player is away (S410: YES), the management computer 300 updates the state storage area j of the gaming machine 100 targeted in step S401 to a non-operating state (S410). ). In subsequent step S411, it is determined whether or not the above-described steps S402 to S410 have been executed for all the gaming machines 100 of the target group T (S411). When it is determined that each step S is not executed for all the gaming machines 100 of the target group T (S411: NO), the management computer 300 returns the process to step S401 and changes the target gaming machine 100. Then, each step S is executed. On the other hand, when it is determined that each step S has been executed for all the gaming machines 100 of the target group T (S411: YES), the management computer 300 ends the vacant space detection process.

  FIG. 10 is a flowchart of the reservation state processing of the management computer 300. The reservation state process is executed for each gaming device 200 in the reservation state. When the management computer 300 starts the reservation state processing, the management computer 300 determines whether or not the card C of the reservation source gaming device 200 has been inserted into the reservation destination gaming device 200 for 10 minutes or more (S501). That is, in step S501, it is determined whether or not the cancellation condition described above (see FIGS. 5B-1 and 5B-2) is satisfied.

  If it is determined that the card C of the reservation-source gaming device 200 has not been received by the reservation-destination gaming device 200 for 10 minutes or longer (S501: YES), the management computer 300 executes a reservation cancellation process (S502). To do. In the reservation canceling process, for example, as shown in FIG. 5B-2, the reservation source unit number information stored in the reservation destination standby table storage area r is deleted, and the reservation destination state storage area j Is changed from the standby state to the non-operating state. That is, the confirmed state of the reservation source gaming device 200 is released, and the reservation state of the reservation destination gaming device 200 is released. The management computer 300 ends the reservation state process after executing the reservation cancellation process.

  When the period during which the card C of the reservation-source gaming device 200 is not inserted into the reservation-destination gaming device 200 is less than 10 minutes (S501: NO), the management computer 300 is a big hit by the reservation-source gaming machine 100 It is determined whether it is in a state (S503). When it is determined that the reservation-source gaming machine 100 is in a big hit state (S503: YES), the management computer 300 executes a reservation extension process (S505). That is, similarly to the above-described step S304 (see FIG. 9A), when the reservation source gaming machine 100 is in a big hit state (that is, when one of the extension conditions is satisfied), the reservation extension process is performed. Executed.

  If it is determined that the reservation-source gaming machine 100 is not in the big hit state (S503: NO), the management computer 300 ejects the card C for five minutes or more after the reservation-source gaming device 200 shifts to the reservation state. It is determined whether it is not (S504). That is, in step S504, as in step S503, it is determined whether or not the extension condition is satisfied. If the management computer 300 determines that the time during which the card C has not been ejected from the reservation-source gaming device 200 is less than 5 minutes (S504: NO), it ends the reservation state processing. On the other hand, if the management computer 300 determines that the card C has not been ejected from the reservation source gaming device 200 for more than 5 minutes (S504: YES), the management computer 300 executes the reservation extension process and ends the reservation state process. .

Second Embodiment
The second and third embodiments of the present invention will be described below. In addition, about the element in which an effect | action and a function are equivalent to 1st Embodiment in each form illustrated below, the code | symbol referred by description of 1st Embodiment is diverted, and each detailed description is abbreviate | omitted suitably.

  FIG. 11 is a diagram for explaining the gaming system S in the second embodiment. The gaming system S of the second embodiment includes a gaming machine 100, a gaming device 200, and a management computer 300, as in the first embodiment described above. The gaming system S of the second embodiment includes a pachislot gaming machine 700 and a gaming device 800. In the second embodiment, the gaming machine 100 is referred to as a pachinko gaming machine 100 in order to distinguish it from the pachislot gaming machine 700. The group T of the second embodiment includes a group T composed of pachinko gaming machines 100 and a group T composed of pachislot gaming machines 700.

  The pachislot gaming machine 700 allows one game by inserting three medals into the pachislot gaming machine 700, where medals are used as gaming media. If the start lever is operated after the medal is inserted, the game is started and the three reels rotate. A plurality of types of symbols are arranged on each reel. Each stop button corresponding to each reel is provided, and when each stop button is operated, the symbol combination as a result of the game is stopped and displayed. When a predetermined symbol combination is stopped and displayed, medals are paid out from the pachislot machine 700. Further, when a specific symbol combination is stopped and displayed, the pachislot machine 700 shifts to a big hit state. In the big hit state, the expected value of the number of medals obtained in one game is larger than the normal state.

  The gaming apparatus 800 is provided with a bill insertion slot 801, an operation panel 802, a game medal lending button 803a, a medal use button 803b, a card ejection button 803c, a game medal payout apparatus 804, and a card insertion slot 805. A bill can be inserted into the bill insertion slot 801 similarly to the bill insertion port 201 described above, and a card C can be inserted into the card insertion port 805 similarly to the card insertion port 805 described above. In addition, the operation panel 802 can display various images as well as the above-described operation panel 202, and accepts various player operations including a reservation operation. The card ejection button 803c is operated when the card C is ejected, similarly to the card ejection button 203c described above.

  When the game medal lending button 803a is operated, 1000 medal game medals are paid out from the game medal payout device 804. In this embodiment, 50 game medals are paid out for 1000 yen. When a game medal is paid out, the value “1000” is subtracted from the balance information of the card C. The medal use button 803b is operated when a game is played using the medal information stored in the card C. The game medals acquired in the game are counted by, for example, a medal counter (not shown), and the counted game medals are added to the possessed medal information.

  FIG. 11B is a flowchart of vacancy detection processing according to the second embodiment. The vacancy detection process of the second embodiment is different from the vacancy detection process of the first embodiment in that steps S601 to S603 of FIG. 11B are provided, and other steps S are common.

  In the vacant table detection process of the second embodiment, when the determination result in step S403 is YES, the management computer 300 determines whether or not the vacant table detection target is the group T of the pachinko gaming machine 100 thereafter. (S601). When it is determined that the group is the group T of the pachinko gaming machine 100 (S601: YES), the management computer 300 executes a first waiting time calculation process (S602). In the first waiting time calculation process, the number of game balls to be paid out in one payout operation (for example, 125 pieces) is the same as the waiting time calculation process in the first embodiment (S406 in FIG. 9B). ) Is determined according to the waiting time.

  When it is determined that the detection target of the empty platform is not the group T of the pachinko gaming machine 100 (S601: NO), the management computer 300 executes the second waiting time calculation process (S603). That is, the second waiting time calculation process is executed when the vacant base detection target is the group T of the pachislot gaming machines 700. In the second waiting time calculation process, the waiting time is calculated according to the game medal paid out by one payout operation. Specifically, the pachislot machine 700 requires about 4.1 seconds for one game. Also, three game medals are used in one game. Therefore, when 50 game medals are paid out in one payout operation, it takes about 1 minute and 8 seconds until all the paid game medals are used.

  The waiting time is determined to be sufficiently longer than the time required to use all game medals paid out in one payout operation. In the present embodiment, when 50 game medals are paid out in one payout operation, the waiting time is determined to be about 2 minutes 30 seconds. Note that when the number of game medals to be paid out in one payout operation is changed, the waiting time calculated in the second waiting time calculation process also changes. Specifically, the waiting time is a numerical value (minutes) obtained by dividing the number of game medals paid out by a numerical value “20”. As described above, in the second embodiment, the waiting time is determined by different waiting time calculation processes between the pachinko gaming machine 100 and the pachislot gaming machine 700. Therefore, for example, the non-operating state can be detected with high accuracy compared to a configuration in which the waiting time is uniformly determined by the pachinko gaming machine 100 and the pachislot gaming machine 700.

<Third Embodiment>
FIG. 12A is a diagram for explaining the gaming system S of the third embodiment. As shown in FIG. 12 (a), the gaming system S of the third embodiment includes a gaming machine (100, 700) (not shown), a gaming device (200a, 200b, 800a, 800b), and a management computer (300a). 300b). The gaming device includes a gaming device a (200, 800) installed in the store A and a gaming device b (200, 800) installed in the store B. The gaming device a can communicate with a management computer 300a installed in the store A. The gaming device b can communicate with the management computer 300b installed in the store B.

  The management computer 300 a of the store A and the management computer 300 b of the store B can communicate via the network N. As the network N, a dedicated line is preferably employed. The management computer 300a grasps the state (operating state, non-operating state, reservation state) of the gaming machine installed in the store A. In addition, the management computer 300a transmits the state of the gaming machine in the store A to the management computer 300b via the network N.

  The management computer 300b grasps the state of the gaming machine installed in the store B. Also, the management computer 300b transmits the state of the gaming machine in the store B to the management computer 300a via the network N. According to the above configuration, the state of the gaming machines of both the store A and the store B is grasped by the management computer 300a. Moreover, the state of the game machines of both the store A and the store B is grasped by the management computer 300b.

  In the gaming system S of the third embodiment, in addition to the gaming machines installed in the store A, the gaming machines installed in the store B can be reserved from the gaming apparatus a. In addition to the gaming machines installed in the store B, the gaming machines installed in the store A can be reserved from the gaming apparatus b.

  FIG. 12B-2 is a simulation diagram of the store selection image GT displayed on the operation panel (202, 802). The store selection image GT is displayed in common on the operation panels of the gaming device a and the gaming device b. The store selection image GT is displayed when the reservation button image Zy (see FIG. 6A) is operated in the reservation available period. The store selection image GT is displayed to allow the player to select a store in which a gaming machine desired to be reserved is installed. Specifically, the store selection image GT includes a store selection button image Zc corresponding to the store A and a store selection button image Zd corresponding to the store B. When the store selection button image Zc is operated, it is possible to make a reservation for the gaming machine of the store A. When the store selection button image Zd is operated, it is possible to reserve a gaming machine in the store B.

  FIG. 12B-2 is a simulation diagram of the reserved image GY in the third embodiment. The reserved image GY of the third embodiment is displayed when the store selection button image Z (c, d) is operated on the store selection image GT. In the reserved image GY of the third embodiment, the model selection button image Z (a, b) corresponding to each group T is displayed as in the reserved image GY (see FIG. 6B) of the first embodiment. . In the reserved image GY in the third embodiment, the number of vacancies in each group T in the store selected in the store selection image GT is displayed. In addition, the selected store is displayed in the reservation image GY. The reserved image GY in FIG. 12B-2 is a specific example in which the store A is selected in the store selection image GT. For example, a character string “Store A” is displayed in the reserved image GY.

  According to the third embodiment described above, the player can reserve a gaming machine in the other store while playing in one store. Therefore, for example, as compared with a configuration in which a gaming machine of only a store where a game is played can be reserved, there are advantages that the range of options for the gaming machine is widened and the operating rate of both stores is improved.

  By the way, game media (game balls, game medals) acquired at the game hall can be exchanged for prizes at a predetermined exchange rate. For example, there is a game hall in which one game ball is rented for 4 yen and 100 game balls are exchanged for prizes equivalent to 400 yen. The exchange rate of the above game hall is “1”. On the other hand, there is a game hall where one game ball is rented for 4 yen and 100 game balls are exchanged for prizes equivalent to 360 yen. The exchange rate of the above game hall is “0.9”.

  Under the current rules, multiple types of exchange rates cannot be adopted at the same store. However, it is preferred that the player can select the exchange rate. Therefore, in recent years, a business method has been adopted in which the same manager opens a plurality of stores (affiliated stores) in the vicinity, and the exchange rates are different at each store. According to the business method described above, the player can be substantially selected for the exchange rate. The above-described third embodiment is suitably employed in a gaming system that employs the above sales method.

  A service for issuing a membership card CA that can be used in common at the same affiliate store is also known. The membership card CA can be used in all of the gaming devices in the same affiliate store. Therefore, for example, there is an advantage that the number of member cards CA is reduced compared to a configuration in which a member card CA is issued for each store.

  In the configuration in which the above common membership card CA is issued, the third embodiment may be adopted. Moreover, in the above structure, it is good also as a structure which transfers to a reservation possible period only in the period when member card CA is inserted. That is, the visitor card CB may be configured not to accept a reservation operation. According to the above configuration, a player who has the membership card CA is given a privilege that a gaming machine at the store can be reserved without moving to another store. Therefore, the player can be given a motivation to become a member. In the first and second embodiments described above, the reservation period may be shifted only during the period in which the membership card CA is inserted.

<Modification>
Each of the above forms can be variously modified. Specific modifications are exemplified below. Two or more aspects arbitrarily selected from the following examples can be appropriately combined.

(1) In each of the above-described embodiments, the operation panels (202, 802) are employed as an operation unit that accepts a reservation operation. However, the operation unit that accepts the reservation operation can be changed as appropriate. For example, a push button may be employed as an operation unit that accepts a reservation operation.

(2) In each embodiment described above, the number of gaming devices 200 in the standby state is displayed in the standby transition image GU (see FIG. 6D). However, the period for displaying the number of gaming devices 200 in the standby state is not limited to the above specific example. For example, also in the above-described reservation image GY (see FIG. 6B), the number of game devices 200 in the standby state may be displayed for each group T. That is, when selecting a group to be reserved (operating any one of the model selection button images Z), the number of gaming devices 200 in the standby state may be displayed for each group T. According to the above configuration, for example, it is possible to select a group T to be reserved while avoiding a group T having too many gaming devices 200 in a standby state. Further, the number of gaming devices 200 in the standby state may be displayed in the game image GA2 after the reservation operation (see FIG. 6E).

(3) In each of the above embodiments, after the reservation operation is accepted, a configuration in which a cancel operation for canceling the reservation operation may be possible. For example, there is a configuration in which a cancel button image is displayed on the in-game image GA2 displayed in the standby state (see FIG. 6E), and the standby state is canceled when the cancel button image is operated by the player. It is done. Further, when the cancel button image is displayed on the confirmed image GK (FIG. 6C and FIG. 6F) displayed in the confirmed state, and the cancel button image is operated by the player, the confirmed state is released. It is good also as a structure to be. However, in the configuration in which the reservation operation can be easily canceled, it is assumed that the reservation operation is abused. In view of the above circumstances, a configuration in which a cancel operation can be performed only in one of the standby state and the confirmed state is preferable.

(4) In each above-mentioned form, extension conditions and cancellation conditions can be changed suitably. For example, it is assumed that the card C storing the reservation source machine number information is ejected from the reservation source gaming device 200 and then inserted into a device other than the reservation destination gaming device 200. In the above case, the extension condition or the cancellation condition may be established. In the above case, when adopting a configuration that satisfies the extension condition, the gaming device 200 indicates that the card C is ejected from the gaming device 200 in which the card C is inserted and that the card C should be moved to the reservation destination. (For example, a sound of “not a reserved table” is reproduced) is preferably used.

  Further, in each of the above-described forms, the extension condition is satisfied when the balance information and the possession information are subtracted below the set value during the period in which the visitor card CB is received. However, the set values of the balance information and the possession information that satisfy the extension condition can be changed as appropriate. For example, a numerical value “0” may be adopted as a setting value for the balance information and the possession information.

  Further, in each of the above-described embodiments, the discharge restriction time (5 minutes) until the extension condition is satisfied and the movement restriction time (10 minutes) until the cancellation condition is satisfied can be changed as appropriate. For example, the movement limit time needs to be sufficiently longer than the time required to move to the reserved gaming machine. However, the length of time required to move to the reservation destination gaming machine differs according to the distance from the reservation source gaming machine to the reservation destination gaming machine. For example, when a reservation-destination gaming machine is installed on the same island L as the reservation-source gaming machine, the movement limit time may be relatively short. On the other hand, when the reservation-destination gaming machine is installed in a store different from the reservation-source gaming machine (see the third embodiment), the movement limit time needs to be relatively long.

  In view of the above circumstances, a configuration in which the movement restriction time is variable according to the distance between the reservation-source gaming machine and the reservation-destination gaming machine is preferable. Specifically, the longer the distance between the reservation-source gaming machine and the reservation-destination gaming machine, the longer the movement restriction time, and the shorter the distance between the reservation-source gaming machine and the reservation-destination gaming machine, the movement restriction. A configuration that shortens the time is preferable. For example, a configuration in which the movement limit time can be set for each gaming device by the management computer 300 is conceivable.

(5) In each above-mentioned form, the state of the game device was automatically changed. However, for example, the state of the gaming device 200 may be changed by the operation of the person who operates the management computer 300 (game hall manager). For example, in each of the above-described embodiments, when the cancellation condition is satisfied, the confirmed state is automatically canceled, but a configuration in which it is canceled by the operation of the administrator is conceivable. Specifically, the administrator monitors the length of time after the gaming device has shifted to the finalized state. If the length of time after shifting to the confirmed state exceeds, for example, 5 minutes, the manager informs the player who has made the reservation operation that the game machine should be moved to the reservation destination. An announcement in the game hall can be adopted as means for notifying the reservation-destination gaming machine that it should move. Thereafter, when the time length after shifting to the confirmed state exceeds, for example, 10 minutes, the administrator operates the management computer 300 to release the confirmed state.

(6) In each of the above-described forms, the reserved image GB (see FIG. 6 (i)) displayed on the gaming device notifies that the gaming device is in the reserved state. However, it may be configured to notify that a device other than the gaming device is in the reserved state. For example, a stand lamp that can display game information such as the number of times the game has changed to the big hit state is provided corresponding to each gaming machine, and a notification is made that the reserved state is provided by a stand lamp provided corresponding to the gaming machine in the reserved state. It is good also as a structure to be made.

In each of the above-described forms, when there are a plurality of vacancies in the group T, the gaming machine that shifts to the reserved state is automatically determined. However, when there are a plurality of vacancies in the group T, a configuration may be adopted in which the player can select a gaming machine that shifts to the reserved state. The operation for selecting the gaming machine to be shifted to the reserved state is preferably configured to be accepted on the operation panel of the gaming device, for example.

  In addition, when there are a plurality of vacancies in the group T, a configuration in which a mode in which a gaming machine that shifts to a reservation state by a reservation operation is automatically determined and a mode that can be determined by a player is preferable. . For example, the administrator can switch between modes by appropriately operating the management computer. Furthermore, when there are a plurality of vacancies in the group T, in the configuration in which the gaming machine that shifts to the reserved state is automatically determined, a configuration in which the gaming machine that shifts to the reserved state is determined at random is preferable.

(7) In each of the above forms, the group T is composed of a plurality of gaming machines, but each group T may be composed of one gaming machine.

(8) The place (device) where each operation unit (for example, the game ball rental button 203a) is provided in each of the above embodiments can be changed as appropriate. For example, in the above-described embodiments, the game ball lending button 203a is provided in the game device 200. However, the game ball lending button 203a may be provided in another device. For example, the pachinko gaming machine 100 may be provided with a game ball lending button 203a. Similarly, the game medal lending button 803a may be provided on a device different from the game device 800. For example, the pachislot gaming machine 800 may be provided with a game medal lending button 803a. Moreover, although the card discharge button 203c of each form described above is provided in the gaming device 200, it may be configured to be provided in the pachinko gaming machine 100. Similarly, the card ejection button 803c is provided in the gaming apparatus 800, but may be configured in the pachislot gaming machine 700.

(9) In each of the above embodiments, when a game ball is paid out in accordance with the operation of the game ball rental button 203a, the game ball is paid out from the game ball payout device 204. However, when a game ball is paid out according to the operation of the game ball lending button 203a, a configuration in which the game ball is paid out from the pachinko gaming machine 100 may be adopted. In each of the above-described forms, when a game ball is paid out in accordance with the operation of the possession ball use button 203b, the game ball is paid out from the game ball payout device 204. However, the game ball is drawn from the pachinko gaming machine 100. It is good also as composition paid out. The game ball is paid out from the pachinko gaming machine 100 both when the game ball is paid out according to the operation of the game ball lending button 203a and when the game ball is paid out according to the operation of the possession ball use button 203b. In the configuration, the game ball payout device 204 can be omitted.

  Similarly, in each of the above-described forms, when a game medal is paid out in accordance with the operation of the game medal lending button 803a, the game medal is paid out from the game medal payout device 804. It is good also as a structure which pays out. Further, when a game medal is paid out in accordance with the operation of the possession medal use button 803b, the game medal is paid out from the game medal payout device 804. However, the game medal may be paid out from the pachislot gaming machine 700. Good. The game medal is paid out from the pachislot machine 700 both when the game medal is paid out according to the operation of the game medal lending button 803a and when the game medal is paid out according to the operation of the use medal use button 803b. In the configuration, the game medal payout device 804 can be omitted. Of the game ball payout device 204 and the game medal payout device 804, only the game ball payout device 204 may be omitted.

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 100 ... Game machine, 200 ... Game device, 201 ... Banknote insertion slot, 202 ... Operation panel, 203a ... Game ball rental button, 203b ... Use ball possession button, 203c ... Card discharge button, 204 ... Game ball payout device, 205 ... card insertion slot, 300 ... management computer, 400 ... stand adapter, 500 ... holding ball counting device, 600 ... out ball counting device.

Claims (9)

A plurality of gaming devices provided corresponding to each of a plurality of gaming machines including a specific gaming machine belonging to a specific group, and capable of giving a player a gaming medium used for gaming;
It is possible to communicate with the gaming machine and the gaming device, and for each gaming machine, it is possible to grasp whether the player is in an operating state where the player is playing or in a non-operating state where the player is not playing a game. A gaming system comprising a management computer,
In a first period in which any one of the specific gaming machines is in the non-operating state, when a reservation operation is performed on the gaming device, the specific gaming machine corresponds to any of the specific gaming machines in the non-operating state Reservation execution means capable of shifting the gaming device to a reservation state corresponding to the gaming device on which the reservation operation has been performed;
Standby table storage means for sequentially storing the gaming devices on which the reservation operation has been performed as standby gaming devices in a second period in which all of the specific gaming machines are in the operating state;
The gaming device is provided at a position where the player of the gaming machine corresponding to the gaming device can operate, and the total number of the waiting gaming devices stored in the waiting table storage means can be displayed. And
The reservation execution means stores the standby game device in the second period, and then stores the standby game storage means when any of the specific gaming machines shifts to the non-operating state. the reservation state corresponding to the initially the reservation operation is said for standby gaming device of waiting for a game device, Ri migratable der the for the game corresponding to the particular game machine apparatus,
Determining means for determining whether or not a predetermined extension condition is established in the gaming machine;
If it is determined that the extension condition is satisfied in the gaming machine corresponding to the standby gaming device that is initially reserved among the standby gaming devices stored in the standby table storage means, the first The standby game device stored in the standby table storage means while maintaining the standby game device operated in the reservation as the standby game device that was initially reserved in the standby table storage means Order change means capable of transferring the gaming device corresponding to the specific gaming machine in the non-operating state to the reservation state corresponding to the standby gaming device that has been reserved for the second time or later. A gaming system further provided . A plurality of gaming devices provided corresponding to each of a plurality of gaming machines including a specific gaming machine belonging to a specific group, and capable of giving a player a gaming medium used for gaming;
It is possible to communicate with the gaming machine and the gaming device, and for each gaming machine, it is possible to grasp whether the player is in an operating state where the player is playing or in a non-operating state where the player is not playing a game. A gaming system comprising a management computer,
In a first period in which any one of the specific gaming machines is in the non-operating state, when a reservation operation is performed on the gaming device, the specific gaming machine corresponds to any of the specific gaming machines in the non-operating state Reservation execution means capable of shifting the gaming device to a reservation state corresponding to the gaming device on which the reservation operation has been performed;
Standby table storage means for sequentially storing the gaming devices on which the reservation operation has been performed as standby gaming devices in a second period in which all of the specific gaming machines are in the operating state;
The gaming device is provided at a position where the player of the gaming machine corresponding to the gaming device can operate, and the total number of the waiting gaming devices stored in the waiting table storage means can be displayed. And
The reservation execution means stores the standby game device in the second period, and then stores the standby game storage means when any of the specific gaming machines shifts to the non-operating state. The gaming device corresponding to the specific gaming machine can be transferred to the reservation state corresponding to the standby gaming device that is initially reserved among the waiting gaming devices,
Determining means for determining whether or not a predetermined extension condition is satisfied in the standby gaming device;
When it is determined that the extension condition is satisfied in the standby game device that is initially reserved among the standby game devices stored in the standby table storage means, the reservation operation is first performed. While maintaining the standby game apparatus in the standby table storage means as the standby game apparatus that was initially reserved, the second or subsequent one of the standby game apparatuses stored in the standby table storage means A game system further comprising order changing means capable of transferring the gaming device corresponding to the specific gaming machine in the non-operating state to the reserved state corresponding to the standby gaming device operated for the reservation. . The gaming device can accept a storage medium including a first storage medium in which identification information for identifying a player is stored;
When said gaming device has received the first storage medium, the game system according to claim 1 or 2 comprising a first enabling means for enabling the reservation operation on for that gaming machine. The storage medium includes a second storage medium in which the identification information is not stored,
When the game device accepts the second storage medium, the game device can grant the game medium on the condition that a valuable value is stored in the second storage medium;
When the gaming device accepts the second storage medium, the reservation operation for the gaming device is validated on condition that the valuable value is stored in the second storage medium. The game system according to claim 3, further comprising: 2 enabling means. The gaming device, the specific gaming machine wherein the particular gaming machine or system for a game of claims 1 to 4 number which can display which is a non-operating state of belonging to the particular group. The game device of the reservation source for which the reservation operation has been performed can discharge the storage medium after storing the specific information that can identify the game device of the reservation source in the storage medium,
The gaming device of the reservation destination that has shifted to the reservation state by the reservation operation has received the storage medium storing the specific information that can identify the reservation-source gaming device for which the reservation operation has been performed. The game system according to any one of claims 1 to 5 , wherein a game medium can be provided on condition of the above. The determination means is a special game in which the gaming machine corresponding to the standby gaming apparatus that is initially reserved among the standby gaming apparatuses stored in the standby storage means is more advantageous than a normal gaming state. The gaming system according to claim 1, wherein when it is in a state, it is determined that the extension condition is satisfied . The determining means is the gaming apparatus of the specific gaming machine in the reserved state corresponding to the standby gaming apparatus that is initially reserved among the standby gaming apparatuses stored in the standby table storage means. When the predetermined time length has elapsed after the transition, the storage medium is not ejected from the standby gaming device that was initially reserved, and it is determined that the extension condition is satisfied. The gaming system according to claim 2. When a predetermined length of time has elapsed since the gaming device transitioned to the reserved state, the storage medium ejected from the gaming device on which the reservation operation has been performed is a game in the reserved state. The game system according to any one of claims 1 to 8 , further comprising reservation canceling means capable of canceling the reservation state when the reservation device cannot accept the reservation state.

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