JP2006075445A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To effectively execute a performance during a game in a slot machine. <P>SOLUTION: When a starting lever 24 is operated with the number of bets determined, this slot machine 1 rotates three reels 10a, 10b and 10c. When performing an internal lottery then to make a winning flag ON, this machine executes a performance (a winning notification and the like) according thereto. Alternatively, whenever a stop button 26, 28 or 30 is operated, this machine executes a performance (the winning notification at a first stop, the winning notification at a second stop, and the like) according to the winning flag. During a big bonus game, this game machine progresses a picture performance with a liquid crystal device 42 and the like, so that a player can expect the possibility of continuation of the bonus. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2006,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine that stops after the symbols are variably displayed and determines whether or not a privilege is given according to the combination mode of the symbols at that time.

  In a general slot machine as this type of gaming machine, for example, the reels are rotated to display the symbols in a variable manner, while the presence / absence of a winning is determined from the combination of symbols displayed when the reels are stopped. When there is a winning, game values such as medals and coins corresponding to the type of winning symbol (winning combination) at that time are paid out. However, unlike a special game such as a bonus game, a win can be expected only with a relatively low probability during a general base game, and it is difficult for a player to noticeably increase the game value during this period.

As a supplement to this point, for example, by introducing a function called “assist time (AT)” in conventional games, it is possible to give a player more chances to win a prize apart from special games. Is known (for example, see Patent Document 1). In this known gaming machine, an effect is made in which the player is regarded as the main character of the story, and the contents of the “game assist period (assist time)” are determined with reference to the history of the effect.
JP 2003-265683 A (pages 2-3 and 8-9)

  In known gaming machines, the content of the number of games and the like is determined with reference to the game history and the production history until the “assist time” is reached. For example, there has been no noticeable progress in the production content up to that point. If the game history such as the number of wins won is not so good, the player is likely to give up the number of “assist time” games, and give up there. . As described above, in the known gaming machine, the player can somehow see from the game history and the production history so far, so that there is a problem that the content of the “assist time” is not much expected.

  Therefore, the present invention intends to provide a technique that makes it difficult to impair the player's expectation when executing “assist time” or the like.

(Solution 1)
The gaming machine of the present invention starts and stops in accordance with the player's operation with the number of game value bets determined, and changes the display of the symbols by the activation, while combining multiple symbols at the time of the stop The symbol display device is displayed, and the presence / absence of winning is determined from the combination mode of the symbols when the symbol display device is stopped, and when there is a winning, a predetermined number of game values are given to the player and In a gaming machine that ends the game, an internal lottery is performed for each game, and a lottery means for obtaining the winning result; a stop operation means capable of accepting a stop operation for stopping the symbol display device; When the stop operation is accepted by the stop operation means, the combination mode of symbols displayed when the symbol display device is stopped is controlled based on the stop operation and the winning result of the internal lottery. The stop control means that can display the combination of symbols corresponding to winning only when the stop operation suitable for the winning type of the internal lottery is performed, and a specific condition is satisfied during a general normal game And a specific game execution means for enabling operation information related to a stop operation suitable for the winning type when the internal lottery is won in each game to be transferred to a specific game, and the specific game A pre-transition game execution means for executing a pre-transition game consisting of a series of games before the transition to the specific game by the specific game execution means after a condition is satisfied, and a game in progress before the game A specific game period determining means for determining a game period in which the specific game is to be executed, and a predetermined effect screen during the game before the transition, and through the effect screen, the specific game period The determination means is obtained by a presentation display means for visually recognizable a process of the game period is determined.

  In the gaming machine of the present invention, in each game, whether or not to win is determined from the combination mode of symbols displayed when the symbol display device is stopped, whether or not to win is determined by the winning result by the internal lottery and the stop It depends on the operation. That is, as long as the player is not won by an internal lottery for each game, no matter how skilled the player performs the stop operation, winning is never permitted. On the other hand, even if the player has won the internal lottery, if the player's stop operation is immature (for example, the timing, order, etc. of the stop operation are inappropriate) May not come true (so-called missing). Accordingly, winnings can be made without any problem only when the player has won the internal lottery and the player has performed a stop operation suitable for the winning type, and no winnings will be obtained if any of them is missing. For this reason, normally, even if the player is skilled in stop operation technique, unless the player knows the winning type of the internal lottery, the stop operation that is suitable for the winning type will be performed. It ’s difficult.

  The gaming machine of the present invention relates to a technology for assisting winning a prize using such characteristics, and specifically, by executing a specific game when a specific condition is satisfied, an internal lottery is performed during this period. The operation information related to the stop operation suitable for the winning type can be disclosed to the player. As a result, the player can easily win a prize simply by performing a stop operation based on the operation information, and as a result, the number of game values acquired can be increased.

  However, if the period for executing a specific game continues for an excessively long time, the number of game values acquired by the player will increase cumulatively, and only the player will be unilaterally advantageous compared to the game venue operator. End up. For this reason, in the gaming machine of the present invention, the length of the game period is determined prior to the transition to the specific game, and the specific game is ended within the determined game period. At this time, if the game period is always fixed at a certain length, the player may become bored with the game or the specific game itself may become monotonous. There is still room to change the length of the game period in the process.

  In the game before the transition, there are various ways to determine the length of the game period in which the specific game should be executed in the future, for example, the winning results obtained during the game before the transition (winning type, number of winnings, etc.) It is possible to specifically determine the length of the game period based on the winning results (the type of winning symbol, the number of winning times, etc.), the number of acquired game values, and the like. As described above, in the gaming machine of the present invention, the length of the game period is finally determined in the game before the transition to the specific game after the specific condition is satisfied, so the game until the specific condition is satisfied Even if the contents of the history and the production history are not good, the player can prepare for a transition to a specific game by renewing his expectation.

  Furthermore, during the game before the transition, the process of determining the game period (length) through the effect screen can be visually recognized, so that the player can determine the game period shorter through the content displayed on the effect screen. You can tackle pre-transition games while watching whether it will be decided or long.

(Solution 2)
In the solving means 1, the effect display means displays the expectation information on whether the game period is likely to be set relatively long or easy in the first stage of the game before transition, and then the transition is performed. By displaying a series of effect images using the likelihood information in the second stage of the previous game, it is possible to visually recognize the process of finally determining the length of the game period.

  In this way, the pre-transition game is divided into the first stage and the second stage, and in the first stage, the prospect information regarding the length of the game period is displayed first, and when proceeding to the second stage, there is actually In addition, it is possible to perform a two-stage effect display in which the process until the length of the game period is determined through a series of effect images using the prospect information is visually recognized. For this reason, even if the player has predicted (or prepared) the possibility that the game period will be determined to be relatively short from the prospect information displayed in the first stage, the player proceeds to the second stage and uses the prospect information. When the produced effect image is displayed, the game period may be determined to be relatively long, contrary to the prediction. For this reason, in the pre-transition game, an unexpected factor greatly affects the process of determining the length of the game period, so that the player can enjoy the pre-transition game while being always excited.

(Modification 1 of Solution 2)
The “prospect information” as used in the solving means 2 may be, for example, a character that plays some kind of game (competition, fighting, battle, etc.) on the production screen. In this case, when a character is displayed in the first stage of the pre-migration game, the player's impression varies depending on the character's characteristics (character, nature, temper, physical strength, intelligence, etc.). For example, if the displayed character has excellent physical properties, there is a possibility that it will lead to victory when the character plays a match in the next second stage (probability, reliability, expectation, etc.) Tends to be relatively high. The fact that the character that is the “prospect information” wins in terms of production leads to the fact that the game period of the specific game that is finally determined tends to be relatively long. Thus, when a character or the like is displayed as “probability information”, there is an advantage that the player can have a sense of expectation according to the characteristics of the character.

(Modification 2 of Solution 2)
In the solving means 1, the effect display means has a plurality of types of array patterns in which a plurality of types of probability values used in the lottery performed in the second stage of the game before transition are arranged and displayed. The sequence contents of the probability values are made different for each game, and in the first stage of the game before transition, one type is selected from the array pattern and displayed, and the specific game period determining means One type is selected from the probability values displayed in the first stage of the game, a lottery is performed, and the game period is determined from the result.

  In this case, a lottery for determining the game period of the specific game is performed in the second stage of the pre-transition game. In the first stage, probability values used in the lottery are arranged and displayed. There are a plurality of types of arrangement patterns, and the contents of the arrangement (the arrangement order of a plurality of types of probability values, the ratio of probability values, etc.) differ depending on the type. And when which probability value is used is selected, a lottery is performed in the second stage using the selected probability value. The arrangement pattern is changed based on the winning result obtained in the first stage game.

(Solution 3)
In the solving means 2, the effect display means can arrange and display a plurality of types of prospect information on the effect screen, and selectively highlight one type of the expectation information from the array. And each time the game is performed in the first stage, the target information is selectively highlighted and moved sequentially by moving the prospect information in the arrangement direction on the effect screen, When a predetermined winning type is obtained by the internal lottery during the game before the transition, the game period is likely to be set relatively long for the content of the prospect information arranged and displayed on the effect screen. The content can be changed to indicate.

  The above “expectation information” allows the player to predict whether the game period of a specific game will be relatively long or short based on the content of the “probability information”. Types of "prospect information" are displayed in an array. Furthermore, “prospect information” is displayed with one type highlighted from the arrangement, and one type of “prospect information” currently selected is identified. Each time the number of games is repeated, the “probability information” is sequentially moved and displayed in the arrangement direction. During this time, the objects to be highlighted one after another are sequentially replaced.

  Thereafter, the selection of “expected information” is finalized at some opportunity (for example, winning “replay”), and a series of effect images using the “expected information” selected at that time is developed. When developed into this production image, the player's sense of expectation (the length of the game period of a specific game) will vary depending on the content of the “prospect information” used there, so for the player, The more the “prospect information” that has a higher expectation is arranged and displayed from the beginning, the greater the joy and excitement of the player when the selection is confirmed thereafter.

  In the example of the above character, if more characters of excellent physical strength are arranged and displayed on the production screen from the beginning, the types of characters with excellent physical strength are the “prospect information”. It is easy for the player to recognize that it is easy to select. Therefore, it can be said that even if the character subsequently develops to a production scene in which a certain game (competition, fighting, battle, etc.) is performed, there is a high possibility that the character will win. The fact that the character easily wins leads to the fact that the game period of the specific game is likely to be determined relatively long, and as a result, it can be said that the player has a higher expectation.

  Therefore, in the solution means 3, when a predetermined winning type (some small role) is obtained in the internal lottery during the game before the transition, the contents of the “prospect information” displayed in an arrangement on the effect screen are displayed to the player The contents are changed to be advantageous (the game period is likely to be set relatively long). This makes it easier for the player to visually increase the expectation, and it is possible to tackle the pre-migration game while being more exciting than ever.

(Solution 4)
In the solving means 1 to 3, the gaming machine of the present invention is a shortened display means capable of displaying the length of the game period determined by the specific game period determining means as a shortened game period shorter than the actual game period, and the shortened display. When the shortened game period is displayed by the means, when the shortened game period ends after the transition to the specific game, the continuous game period is determined within the range of the game period actually remaining, and this determination Further, it is possible to further include a continuation game period display means for displaying the continuation game period again.

  As described above, when the game period of the specific game is determined internally, the specific game is normally played until the game period (number of games) is ended, but the solution means 4 is shorter than the actual game period. The "shortened game period" is displayed. When the player touches such a display, the player recognizes that the specific game ends with a “short game period” shorter than the actually determined “game period”. Therefore, the player thinks that the specific game has ended when the “short game period” ends. However, in the solution means 4, the “continuation game period” is within the range of the actually remaining game period. This “continuation game period” is displayed again. When a player touches such a display, it feels as if the specific game has been extended, and thereby the game motivation can be kept higher.

(Modification 1 of Solution 4)
In the above solution 4, when the “continuation game period” is displayed, the specific game is played again only for the “continuation game period”. When the period remains, the next new “continuation game period” can be determined again within the remaining game period, and this new “continuation game period” can be displayed. In this case, the player can feel as if the specific game has been extended many times, and can be satisfied with the profits he has gained.

(Modification 2 of Solution 4)
Alternatively, in the solving means 1 to 3, the gaming machine of the present invention is a shortened display means capable of displaying the length of the game period determined by the specific game period determining means as a shortened game period shorter than the actual game time, When the abbreviated game period is displayed by the abbreviated display means, the specific game is temporarily ended in a game in which the abbreviated game period ends after the transition to the specific game, and then the specific game is performed in a subsequent game. Specific game restarting means for restarting the game may be further included.

  In this case, when the “shortened game period”, which is shorter than the actual time, ends, the specific game is apparently ended once there. Therefore, the player recognizes that the specific game has ended as usual due to the end of the “short game period”, but the solution means 5 restarts the specific game in the transition game, so that the player Feels as if a specific game opportunity that has ended has been revived, and can keep the game motivation high while getting more and more exciting.

(Solution 5)
More preferably, in the solving means 1 to 3, the gaming machine of the present invention has a shortened display means capable of displaying the length of the game period determined by the specific game period determining means as a shortened game period shorter than the actual game period. When the abbreviated game period is displayed by the abbreviated display means, when the abbreviated game period ends after the transition to the specific game, a continuation game period is determined within the range of the actually remaining game period And when the shortened game period is displayed by the shortened display means, the shortened game period ends after the transition to the specific game. A specific game resumption means capable of resuming the specific game in a subsequent game, and the shortened game Selection determining means for selectively determining whether the continuous game period is displayed by the continuous game period display means or when the specific game is restarted by the specific game resumption means when the period is over And further comprising.

  In this case, since both the above solution 4 and its modification 2 are provided, when the “short game period” ends, the “continuation game period” is displayed in some cases, and “specific” in other cases. It is possible to make the player feel a variety of unexpectedness such as “resumption of game”.

(Solution 6)
In the solving means 1 to 5, the symbol display device has a plurality of movable bodies each having a symbol row in the circumferential direction, and the display of the symbols is changed while rotating these movable bodies. The combination mode of symbols can be displayed by stopping the rotation, and the stop operation means can accept the stop operation in a mode in which the rotation of the plurality of movable bodies is stopped in order, and the specific game It is preferable that the operation information disclosed therein represents an order in which a plurality of the movable bodies are stopped.

  In this case, the present invention is realized as a spinning-reel game machine, the symbol display device is, for example, a reel unit, and the stop operation means is a stop button for stopping individual reels individually and in order. Furthermore, during the specific game, the so-called “push order” is disclosed to the player, so there is an advantage that the player can easily win a prize without requiring a technique such as “to push”.

(Solution 7)
In solving means 1 to 6, the gaming machine according to the present invention, when a special type winning result is obtained in the internal lottery performed in each game, wins a combination of symbols corresponding to the special type winning result. A special gaming state transition means for transitioning to a special gaming state advantageous to the player, the first special gaming state having a relatively high degree of player advantage, and the first special gaming state. Further, the player is divided into a second special game state in which the player's degree of advantage is high, and when there is a winning based on the special type winning result during the normal game, the first special game state or the second special game state. On the other hand, when the special game is won based on the winning result of the special type, only the transition to the second special game state is determined. Further comprising a transfer determination unit for constant.

  For example, in a gaming machine capable of transitioning to a special gaming state such as a bonus game, the player can concentrate in the special gaming state to obtain a prize, thereby acquiring a lot of gaming value. It is a specification that can be. In addition, even in the same special gaming state, there is a gaming machine having a specification in which the number of gaming values that a player can acquire on average is different and the special gaming state is further divided into a plurality.

  The gaming machine of the present invention is suitable for such specifications. Specifically, in the first special gaming state, the player's degree of advantage is relatively high. The degree of advantage is high. And, when shifting from the normal game to the special game state, since it is distributed to the first special game state or the second special game state, if it happens to be distributed to the first special game state, the player's degree of advantage increases accordingly, On the other hand, if the player is assigned to the second special game state, the player's degree of advantage is greatly increased. In view of such characteristics, in the gaming machine of the present invention, when a transition to a special gaming state is determined during a specific game (so-called “Big Win during AT”, etc.), the gaming machine is always assigned to the second special gaming state. Thus, the special gaming state can be executed without discouraging the player during the specific game.

(Solution 8)
In solving means 1 to 7, the gaming machine according to the present invention further comprises a specific event storage means for internally storing a specific event that the specific condition is satisfied when the specific condition is satisfied during the specific game. The specific game execution means enables a transition to the specific game again after one specific game is completed when the specific event is stored by the specific event storage means.

  In this case, the player continues the game while expecting that there is a possibility that the specific game can be continued even after the completion of one specific game by adding the specific game and satisfying the specific condition. can do. In addition, during a specific game, if a specific condition is satisfied without the player's knowledge, the player can unexpectedly execute the specific game unexpectedly, so that the player has an unexpected profit. Excited and can maintain a high willingness to play.

(Solution 9)
In the solving means 1 to 8, the special gaming state transition means is executed until a predetermined number of game opportunities that can win the internal lottery with a predetermined probability, or with a relatively high probability. The special game state is terminated when the game opportunity consisting of a series of game groups that can be awarded in a specified symbol combination mode is executed until the specified number of times is reached, and the specific game is executed. The means is that the special gaming state is ended when there is no winning in the combination of the prescribed symbols in spite of the fact that a game opportunity consisting of the series of games is being executed during the special gaming state. A gaming machine characterized in that it is possible to shift to the specific game without satisfying the specific condition later.

  For example, in a special game state called “big bonus game” or the like, a game opportunity (small role game, etc.) with a high probability of winning is executed for a predetermined number of times (for example, 30 games) or concentrated on a series of game opportunities. Either a game opportunity (a so-called JAC game or the like) for obtaining a symbol prize (such as a JAC prize) can be executed up to a specified number of times (for example, three times). In particular, in the latter case, it is possible to win with a relatively high probability (for example, about 99%), but in some rare cases, the win may be lost. In the gaming machine of the present invention, taking advantage of encountering such a rare “out-of-game”, a privilege that enables a transition to a specific game is provided. Thus, if a player misses a winning that would normally be earned in a special gaming state, he will be satisfied that it will provide another benefit and will not lose his willingness to play.

(Solution 10)
In the solving means 1 to 9, the gaming machine according to the present invention is a game that extends the game period that has already been determined when the result of winning in the internal lottery continues for a specific number of times during execution of the specific game. A period extending means is further provided.

  As described above, since winning is assisted during a specific game, the player will not miss the winning as long as the winning result is obtained in the internal lottery. In this way, it is difficult to “decline” with a certain degree of probability, but if it continues for a number of times, there is a possibility that the player will eventually complain that “there is a lot of gaps during a specific game”.

  Therefore, in the gaming machine of the present invention, even if a specific game is in progress, if a specific game number of times (for example, 5 times) is continuously lost, the game period of the specific game that has already been determined is extended. It is supposed to give a privilege. As a result, “dissatisfaction with the loss” is canceled out with the expectation of “profit from the loss”, so even if the loss continues, the willingness to play is not reduced.

(Solution 11)
In the solving means 1 to 10, the specific game executing means, when the specific condition is not satisfied for a certain number of games during the continuation of the normal game, to the specific game without satisfying the specific condition. Enable migration.

  In the gaming machine of the present invention, in addition to a bonus game or the like, it is one big goal for the player to execute a “specific game”, but without particularly shifting to a special game state such as a bonus game, If the “specific game” cannot be executed in the normal game state indefinitely, the player may not be able to maintain his willingness.

  In order to cover this point, in the gaming machine of the present invention, if a certain number of games are digested without shifting to the “specific game” while in the normal game, it is forcibly shifted to the “specific game”. It is supposed to be. As a result, even if there is no endless transition to “special game”, the player can continue to play with the expectation that it will be rescued in the end. Absent.

(Solution 12)
In solving means 1 to 11, the gaming machine of the present invention is capable of transitioning between a first internal mode in which the specific condition may be satisfied during the normal game and a second internal mode in which this possibility is not met And a mode presentation unit that can display information for disclosing that the internal mode of the gaming machine is in the first internal mode.

  As described above, whether or not to shift to the “specific game” is determined by a specific internal condition, and therefore, normally, the player does not know the details clearly. However, if the player moves to the “specific game” without any prior notice, the player will not know when to move to the “specific game”, and it will be difficult to maintain interest in the “specific game”.

  Therefore, in the gaming machine of the present invention, the “first internal mode” that may shift to a specific game internally and the “second internal mode” that does not have the possibility of shifting to each other can be transferred to each other, and The stage (for example, winning an internal lottery) provides an effect of disclosing to the player that the player is in the “first internal state”. When the player comes into contact with such an effect, the player can feel that the transition to the “specific game” is close, and thereby the game can be continued while maintaining a high sense of expectation.

  Since the gaming machine of the present invention can exhibit a high performance effect at an opportunity such as a bonus game, it is possible to maintain a high motivation for the game and prevent a decrease in operation.

  Hereinafter, an embodiment in which the present invention is applied to a rotating game machine will be described with reference to the corresponding drawings.

(1. Overview of Embodiment)
FIG. 1 shows a slot machine 1 serving as a rotary gaming machine according to an embodiment. The slot machine 1 in FIG. 1 is of a type that uses, for example, medals, coins or the like as game media (which determines the number of bets for game value). In addition, there is a type using a game ball (so-called “parrot machine”) as a spinning-type game machine, and this type is also suitable as an embodiment. In practicing the present invention, there is no essential difference regardless of which type is applied.

  The slot machine 1 shown in FIG. 1 includes a box-shaped housing 2, and a plurality of machines are installed in the island facility of the game arcade based on the housing 2. Usually, a lending machine for medals and the like is installed as a stand-by sand, and a player can receive a medal and the like by inserting cash or a prepaid card into the stand-by sand.

  The housing 2 has a front door 4 on the front surface facing the player, and the front door 4 can be opened toward the front centering on one side end (left side end in this example). The front door 4 has a flat transparent plate 6 at the middle position thereof, and a rectangular display window 8 is formed at the center thereof. The slot machine 1 of the present embodiment is equipped with three reels (left reel, middle reel, right reel) 10a, 10b, 10c as an example of a mechanical symbol display device. These reels 10a, 10b, 10c are It is arranged behind the front door 4, that is, inside the housing 2.

  Each reel 10a, 10b, 10c has a reel band around the outer periphery thereof, and various patterns are attached to the surface thereof. Although not shown in FIG. 1, the design includes, for example, numbers and letters, bells, watermelons, plums, apples, cherries, etc., or characters, articles, figures, and the like that characterize the model of the slot machine 1. Includes symbols and other illustrations.

  The slot machine 1 can change or stop the display mode of the symbols by rotating or stopping the reels 10a, 10b, and 10c. From the front surface of the slot machine 1, only a part of the reels 10a, 10b, and 10c is visible through the display window 8, and three symbols in the vertical direction for each reel 10a, 10b, and 10c when stopped. Is effectively displayed.

  Display areas 12 and 14 are formed on both sides of the display window 8 of the transparent plate 6, respectively. These display areas 12 and 14 have various information (character notation, symbol, illustration, symbol notation). Etc.) are attached in a predetermined arrangement. A lamp unit, a lamp substrate, and the like (not shown) are arranged behind the transparent plate 6, and information in the display areas 12 and 14 is lit and displayed by transmitting light from lamps and LEDs. For example, when a player inserts a medal through the medal insertion slot 15 for the first time, the bet number of medals, that is, the bet number is added according to the inserted number, and the display area 12 on the left side corresponds to the bet number accordingly. The effective line lamp (or the bet number lamp) is lit up. At this time, if the medal acceptance operation in the slot machine 1 is in the credit mode, medals inserted exceeding the maximum bet number (for example, 3 bets) are stored as credits, and the credit number is numerically displayed on the display unit 16. .

  For example, up to 50 credits can be stored. If there is enough credit remaining after one game, the amount can be used for the next bet. The bet number is selected by operating the bet buttons 18, 20, and 22. The bet buttons 18, 20, and 22 are a single bet (one bet), two bets (two bets), and a MAX bet (three). Bet).

  In any case, when the player determines the number of bets for each game and operates the start lever 24 in a state where the effective line lamp is lit and displayed, the reels 10a, 10b, and 10c start to rotate and the symbols change. When the player operates the stop buttons 26, 28, and 30 while the reels 10a, 10b, and 10c are rotating, the reels 10a, 10b, and 10c corresponding to the right, middle, and left respectively stop rotating and the symbols are displayed. The fluctuation stops. At this time, the presence / absence of winning is determined from the combination of symbols on the activated winning line, and if there is a winning, the winning is determined according to the type of winning symbol (for example, bonus symbol, small role symbol, replay symbol, etc.). A privilege is given and one game is completed.

  Note that if there is a prize accompanying paying out medals (for example, small prize winning, bonus winning), the number of payouts is displayed on the display unit 32. In the credit mode, the paid out medals are displayed on the display unit 16. Added to credit and stored. Of the medals paid out at this time, medals exceeding the maximum number of credits are paid out to the tray 38 through the payout opening 36. Alternatively, if there is a winning with a replay symbol, the immediately preceding winning line is re-enabled and replay (replay) is possible as it is. The player can also cancel the credit mode by operating the settlement button 40 and settle the medal storage (credit).

  The slot machine 1 according to the present embodiment has a liquid crystal display 42 above the display window 8, and the liquid crystal display 42 is used to provide images for effects and various bonus games as the game progresses. The number of medals is displayed. In addition, two speakers 44 are provided on the left and right of the payout opening 36, and sound effects, BGM, sounds, and the like accompanying the progress of the game are output from these speakers 44. In addition, lamps 45, 46, and 48 (some of which reference numerals are omitted) are arranged on the front door 4 at various places, and these lamps 45, 46, and 48 perform effects by lighting decoration according to the gaming state. can do.

(2. Internal structure of slot machine)
FIG. 2 schematically shows configurations of various mechanism elements, electronic devices, operation members, and the like that are installed in the slot machine 1. The slot machine 1 has a main control board 50 for comprehensively controlling the progress of the game. The main control board 50 includes a CPU, a ROM, a RAM, a random number generation counter, an interface, etc. (Not shown) is implemented.

  The bet buttons 18, 20, 22 and the start lever 24, the stop buttons 26, 28, 30 and the settlement button 40 are all connected to the main control board 50, and these operation buttons use sensors (not shown). The operation by the player can be detected and the operation signal can be output to the main control board 50.

  The housing 2 accommodates other devices together with the main control board 50, and various signals are input from these devices to the main control board 50. In addition to the reel device 10 having the three reels 10a to 10c, the devices include a medal selector 52 and a hopper device 54.

  The reel device 10 has a position sensor (not shown) for detecting a reference position related to the rotation of each reel 10a, 10b, 10c, and a detection signal (index signal) from these position sensors is a main control board. 50 is input. The medal selector 52 detects medals inserted from the medal insertion slot 15 one by one and outputs a detection signal (inserted medal signal) to the main control board 50. The hopper device 54 has a payout sensor (not shown) that detects paid-out medals one by one, and a payout medal signal for each medal is input to the main control board 50 from the payout sensor. ing.

  On the other hand, a control signal is output from the main control board 50 to the reel device 10 and the hopper device 54. That is, the reel device 10 has a built-in stepping motor (not shown) for rotating the reels 10a, 10b, and 10c, and a drive pulse signal for controlling start and stop of these stepping motors is a main control. Output from the substrate 50. The hopper device 54 receives a driving signal from the main control board 50 in accordance with the type of the winning symbol, and the hopper device 54 receives the medal in response to this.

  The slot machine 1 includes a sub control board 56 in addition to the main control board 50. The sub control board 56 includes a CPU, a ROM, a RAM, an interface, a VDP, a sound source IC, an audio amplifier, etc. (all of which are shown in the figure). Not implemented). The sub control board 56 receives various command signals from the main control board 50 and controls the operation of the liquid crystal display 42, the display units 16, 32, 34, and the speaker 44, as well as decorative lamps 45, 46, 48 and reels. The lighting or flashing of the back lamp 70 for the device 10 is controlled.

  Further, an external terminal board 58 is connected to the main control board 50, and the slot machine 1 is connected to the hall computer 60 in the game hall via the external terminal board 58. The external terminal board 58 relays various signals (inserted medal signal, payout medal signal, game status, etc.) transmitted from the main control board 50 to the hall computer 60.

  In addition, a power supply unit 62 is accommodated in the housing 2, and the power supply unit 62 takes in power from an external power source and generates power necessary for the operation of the slot machine 1. The electric power generated here is supplied from the power supply unit 62 to each unit.

  The power supply unit 62 is provided with a power switch 64, a setting key switch 66, a reset switch 68, and the like. None of these switches are exposed to the outside of the housing 2 and can be operated only by opening the front door 4 thereof. Among them, the power switch 64 is for turning on / off the power supply to the slot machine 1, and the setting key switch 66 is for changing the settings (for example, settings 1 to 6) of the slot machine 1. . The reset switch 68 is used to cancel an error that has occurred in the slot machine 1 and is also operated when changing the setting together with the setting key switch 66.

(3. Game processing)
Next, the flow of game processing in the slot machine 1 will be described. The following game processing proceeds in accordance with a processing procedure on a control program executed by the CPU of the main control board 50.

(3-1. Revolute game processing)
FIG. 3 shows one processing procedure for one basic game (rotating game) in the slot machine 1. One game starts from start processing (step S10). This starting process is a process for starting the rotation of the reels 10a, 10b, 10c. Here, a random number triggered by the insertion of a medal or the operation of the bet buttons 18, 20, 22 or the operation of the start lever 24 is used. A process such as lottery is performed. The details of the starting process (step S10) will be described later in detail using another flowchart.

  In one game, a stop process (step S20) is executed following the start process (step S10). This stop process stops the rotation of each of the reels 10a to 10c and controls the stop position, and this usually corresponds to a process called “reel control”. There are two types of reel control, for example, a table method and a control method, and either of them may be used here. Reel control (reel stop processing) will also be described later using another flowchart.

  When the stop process is finished by the reel control, the determination process (step S30) is executed next. This determination process is for determining whether or not there is a winning from the combination mode (outcome) of symbols displayed when all the reels 10a, 10b and 10c are stopped, and for providing a game result corresponding to the winning if there is a winning It is. The main result of the game is paying out medals as a prize bonus, but in addition, depending on the type of winning symbol (big bonus symbol, regular bonus symbol, etc.), a privilege to shift to a bonus game is given, or It may be an opportunity to change the internal state of control (for example, there are various internal states such as a lottery zone and a stay mode). The specific contents of the determination process will be described after the stop process.

(3-2. Start processing)
FIG. 4 specifically shows the contents of the start process. Here, first, the insertion of medals or the operation of the bet buttons 18, 20, and 22 is awaited (step S101). As long as the player does not make a bet or insert a medal (No), the start lever 24 is not activated, so the determination in Step S104 is denied (No) and the standby state (Step S101) continues to be looped. When there is a bet operation or a medal insertion, an acceptance process (step S102) is performed in response to this, and the effective line lamp is turned on according to the number of bets. In the acceptance process (step S102), a medal insertion command or a bet command is transmitted from the sub control board 48 to the sub control board 56.

  Subsequent to the acceptance process (step S102), a start lever valid process (step S103) is performed, and the operation of the start lever 24 is substantially validated for the first time. When the player operates the start lever 24 in this state, the determination in step S104 is affirmed (Yes), and then the start lever invalidation process (step S105) is performed.

  When the start lever 24 is operated, random number extraction (random lottery) is performed using this as an opportunity (step S106). The random number used here may be either a software random number or a hardware random number. Further, the timing for extracting the random number after receiving the operation of the start lever 24 is not particularly defined, and an appropriate extraction timing can be set in the programming process.

  In the next flag processing (step S107), winning / losing is determined from the extracted random value, and in the case of winning, depending on the type of winning combination (big bonus, regular bonus, replay, small role, special small role, etc.) The main control board 50 transmits a winning flag command to the sub control board 48.

  When the above flag processing (step S107) is performed, it is determined whether or not the wait timer started in the previous start processing has timed up (for example, 4.1 seconds have elapsed) (step S108). When time-up (Yes) is confirmed, each reel 10a, 10b, 10c is substantially started (step S109), and a wait timer from this point to the next start is started (step S110).

(3-3. Reel stop processing)
In the slot machine 1 of this embodiment, reel control by a table system is adopted as an example, and therefore a necessary reel control table is stored in advance in the ROM of the main control board 50. The reel control table is numbered corresponding to, for example, various winning combinations. In the reel stop process, the reel control table having the number corresponding to the lottery result (winning flag) at that time is selected.

  FIG. 5 shows the basic contents of the reel stop process. In this embodiment, the contents of the reel stop process are different between the case where “Special Bonus” is won in the internal lottery and the case other than that, and here, the processing when the “Special Bonus” is won will be described here. To do.

  The “special small role” in the present embodiment is a small role that can be awarded only when the stop order (so-called pushing order) of the reels 10a, 10b, and 10c matches, and here, the “bell” is the prize. It is assigned as a symbol. Since there are a total of six stop orders for the three reels 10a, 10b, and 10c, the winning flags for “special bonus” are internally classified into six types. On the contrary, the “special small role” allows a winning regardless of the pressing timing as long as the pressing order when the player operates the stop buttons 26, 28, and 30 matches. For this reason, in each reel 10a, 10b, 10c, the symbol of “bell” is arranged with an interval (for example, within 4 symbols at the maximum) that can be pulled in by reel control.

  The main control board 50 is prepared in advance with a reel control table corresponding to special small role flags (assigned to six push orders) for each reel 10a, 10b, 10c. The reel control table with the number corresponding to the winning flag (any one of the six ways) at that time is selected. Therefore, even if the “special small role” is won in the internal lottery, the player only operates the stop buttons 26, 28, and 30 in a random manner with a probability of only 1/6. It is not possible to win a special small role. In addition, there are other types of “special small roles” in which winnings are allowed regardless of the pressing order. In this case, a reel control table that always allows winnings in any pressing order is selected. It is.

  In the reel stop process of FIG. 5, it is first determined whether or not the special small role flag is ON in the game (step S601). As a result of the internal lottery, if the special small combination flag is ON (Yes), it is then determined whether or not the stop buttons 26, 28, 30 have been pressed (step S602). When the stop button 26, 28, 30 is pressed, it is next determined whether or not the pressing order is correct (step S603). For example, if the special small role flag of this time designates the left-to-middle-to-right reel stop order, the pressing order is correct when the stop button 26 corresponding to the left reel 10a is first pressed. Determination is made (step S602 = Yes). In this case, based on the reel control table that has already been selected, the left reel 10a is stopped in such a manner that only the special symbol corresponding symbol (here, “bell”) wins. As a result, in the display window 8, the symbol “bell” stops on the winning line that is activated at that time. In addition, a winning line is determined according to the stop position (upper / middle / lower) of the “bell” at this time, and reel control tables for the remaining middle / right reels 10b and 10c are newly selected. When a single symbol (for example, “cherry”) is arranged on the left reel 10a, the single symbol is popped out of the winning line (outside the display window 8) by the reel control, so “bell” and “cherry”. Will not win at the same time.

  As described above, when the left reel 10a is in the first stop (first stop), all the reels have not stopped yet (step S604 = No). In this case, the process returns to step S601 and the stop button is pressed. An operation is awaited.

  Next, when the stop button 28 corresponding to the middle reel 10b is operated at the time of the second stop, it is continuously determined that the pressing order is correct (step S602 = Yes), and similarly for the middle reel 10b, “Bell” is the winning line. The operation is stopped in a manner of being pulled up (step S603). Then, when the stop button 30 of the last remaining right reel 10c is operated, it is determined that all pushing orders are correct (step S602 = Yes), and finally three “bells” are arranged on the winning line. Thus, the right reel 10c is stopped (step S603).

  On the other hand, when the stop buttons 26, 28, 30 are operated in a pressing order different from the winning flag at the time of the first stop or the second stop (step S602 = No), the symbol display mode that avoids all winnings and Thus, the stop positions of the reels 10a, 10b, and 10c are controlled (step S605).

  The above is the content of the reel stop process when the “special bonus” flag is ON, but the normal stop process (step S620) is performed otherwise (step S600 = No).

  FIG. 6 shows the details of the normal stop process in more detail. In the reel stop process of FIG. 6, first, a reel control table is selected in accordance with a flag (other than “special bonus”) indicating the winning result at that time (step S201). In the normal reel stop process, since the push order (reel stop order) does not relate to whether or not a winning can be made, a reel control table that allows winning of a winning combination is selected in any pushing order. .

  In any case, when an appropriate reel control table is selected in accordance with the winning result, a standby state is entered until the stop buttons 26, 28, 30 are pressed (steps S202, S210, S217, S219). In these standby states, it is determined whether each of the left and middle reels 10a, 10b has already stopped, or whether the first reel stop flag is not set (= 0). At the same time, it is determined whether any one of the left, middle and right stop buttons 26, 28 and 30 is pressed. If none of the stop buttons 26, 28, and 30 are pressed, the determinations in steps S219 and S209 are both denied (No), and steps S202 and after are repeated.

  For example, if the left stop button 26 is first pressed in accordance with a so-called “forward push” or “forward scissor push” procedure (step S202 = Yes), the first reel stop flag is not set at this time ( Therefore, the first reel stop process (step S206) is executed for the left reel 10a. Here, the “first reel stop process” means a process for stopping the reel first.

  Alternatively, when the center stop button 28 is first pressed in accordance with the so-called “middle push” procedure (step S210 = Yes, step S211 = Yes), the first reel stop process (step S212) is executed for the middle reel 10b. The In addition to this, when the right stop button 30 is first pressed in accordance with the so-called “reverse push” or “reverse scissor push” procedure (step S217 = Yes), the first reel stop process ( Step S218) is executed.

  When the first reel stop process (steps S204, S212, and S218) is performed for any one of the left, middle, and right reels 10a, 10b, and 10c, the reel control table of a plurality of patterns corresponding to the flag at that time is used. A table pattern is selected based on the random value. For example, for one winning combination “watermelon”, a plurality of reel control tables are prepared in advance in order to stop the symbol “watermelon” on the reels 10a to 10c on an effective winning line. It means that one pattern is selected from among them. When one pattern is selected, the stop positions of the reels 10a to 10c are controlled based on the reel control table. Thereby, for example, the symbol “watermelon” is stopped somewhere on the winning line.

  For example, taking a pattern in which the left reel 10a is stopped first along the forward pressing procedure, the first reel stop process is performed on the left reel 10a in step S204. At this time, the main control board 50 transmits a stop information command (first stop information command) indicating the stop eye of the left reel 10 a to the sub control board 56.

  In the next step S206, reel control tables (stop tables) for the remaining middle and right reels 10b and 10c are determined by random lottery. Specifically, if the symbol “bell” is stopped at the lower position when the left reel 10a is stopped, the winning line can be selected from the lower line or the upward line (in the case of MAX betting) at that time. However, either one (for example, a line rising to the right) is selected by random number lottery here. The random number lottery distribution rate may be about half.

  When the above processing (step S206) is performed, the first reel stop flag is turned ON (= 1) (step S207), and the left reel stop flag is turned ON (= 1) (step S208). ). Since all the reels 10a to 10c are not stopped at this stage, the determination in step S209 is negative (No), and step S202 and subsequent steps are executed.

  Then, since the left reel 10a has already stopped at this time (step S202 = No), when the stop button 28 at the center position is pressed secondly (step S210 = Yes) along the forward pressing procedure, the first reel After the stop flag is determined (step S211 = No), the middle reel stop process (step S213) is executed. In the middle reel stop process, the stop position is controlled based on the reel control table (stop table) previously selected for the middle reel 10b. As a result, in the example of the above-mentioned right-up winning line, the symbol “watermelon” on the middle reel 10b stops at the middle position. In addition, the stop line is in a state where two symbols “watermelon” are arranged on the left and middle reels 10a and 10b on the right-up line (so-called “right-up template”). At this time, the main control board 50 transmits a stop information command (second stop information command) indicating the stop eye of the middle reel 10 b to the sub control board 56. In this case, since the middle reel 10b is in the second stop, steps S212, S214, and S215 are all bypassed, and the middle reel stop flag is only turned ON (= 1) in step S216.

  Similarly, when the right stop button 30 is finally pressed (step S219 = Yes), the stop position is controlled based on the reel control table (stop table) previously selected for the right reel 10c (step S219). S220). As a result, the symbol “watermelon” on the third right reel 10c stops at the upper position, and the outcome when all reels are stopped is the state in which three symbols “watermelon” are lined up on the right-up line. Become. At this time, the main control board 50 transmits a stop information command (third stop information command) indicating the stop eye of the right reel 10 c to the sub control board 56. In this case, since the right reel 10c is in the third stop, steps S218, S221, and S222 are all bypassed, and the right reel stop flag is turned ON (= 1) in step S223.

  If the all-reel stop flag is turned on through the processing so far, the determination in step S209 is affirmed (Yes), and the processing by the main control board 50 exits this routine. Although not described in detail in the reel stop process related to the “special small role” (FIG. 5), the main control board is also used when the reels 10a, 10b, and 10c are stopped in the reel stop process related to the “special small role”. A stop information command is transmitted from 50 to the sub-control board 56.

  Each of the reel stop processes (FIGS. 5 and 6) is an example using reel control by the table method. Apart from this, there is a reel stop process using a reel control by a control method, but since a known process can be applied to this, a specific description is omitted here. In the present embodiment, either reel control of the control method or the table method may be used, and which method is adopted may be determined as appropriate when the control program is constructed.

(3-4. Determination process)
FIG. 7 specifically shows the contents of the determination process. When all the reels 10a, 10b, and 10c are stopped by the reel stop process described above, the main control board 50 transmits the output (the symbol display mode) displayed at that time to the sub control board 56 (step S301). .

  Next, it is determined whether the winning symbol is a big bonus symbol (step S302), a regular bonus symbol (step S303), or a small role symbol (including "special small role") from the outcome when all reels are stopped. Whether it is present (step S304) or a replay symbol (step S305) is determined. If it is determined that the winning symbol at that time is one of a big bonus, a regular bonus, or a small role (Yes), the hopper device 54 is driven to perform the number of medal payout operations corresponding to each winning symbol. At the same time, a payout sound command is transmitted to the sub-control board 56 (steps S306, S307, S308). In addition, the sub-control board 56 blinks the back lamp 70 corresponding to the winning symbol at that time, and performs an effect that emphasizes the winning.

  Further, when it is determined that the winning symbol is a big bonus symbol or a regular bonus symbol (step S303 or S304 = Yes), a big bonus game process (step S309) and a regular bonus / JAC game game process (step S310) are performed. Executed. Alternatively, when the winning symbol is a replay symbol (step S305 = Yes), a replay process (step S311) is performed.

  When the above process is completed, the winning combination of the small role or replay is turned off (step S312), and this process ends. Further, when no winning symbol has been issued due to lost selection or missing (step S305 = No), the winning combination of the small role or replay is simply turned OFF, and the determination process is also ended. If the process proceeds to the big bonus game process (step S309) or the regular bonus / JAC game game process (step S310), the winning flag is turned OFF during each of these processes.

(5. Special gaming state)
In the slot machine 1 of the present embodiment, when there is a winning with a big bonus symbol (for example, “7-7-7”, “VV-V”) or a regular bonus symbol (for example, “BAR-BAR-BAR”). From the next game, a transition is made to special game states called “big bonus game” and “regular bonus game”, respectively. These big bonus games and regular bonus games include a plurality of game opportunities, and there is a possibility of winning in a concentrated manner during this time. Therefore, it can be said that the player is more advantageous than usual.

  Further, in the big bonus game and the regular bonus game, the former includes more game opportunities, and in the slot machine 1 of the present embodiment, for example, 30 times at most during one big bonus game. The specification includes an opportunity to play a small role game and an opportunity to play a maximum of, for example, three JAC games (regular bonus games).

(5-1. Big bonus game processing)
FIG. 8 specifically shows the contents of the big bonus game process. Here, first, initialization processing is performed, and the random value lottery value table is changed for the small role game (step S401). The winning price table changed here has a larger number of winning values for small roles (including “special small roles”) than usual, and the winning probability of small roles is high during the big bonus game. It can be said.

  Next, the big bonus winning flag is turned off (step S402), and then the reel device 10 is started (step S403) and stopped (step S404). The contents of the start process and the stop process are the same as those already described. If the winning flag is “special small role” during the small role game, a dedicated reel stop process (FIG. 5) is performed, and otherwise a normal reel stop process (FIG. 6) is performed.

  In any case, when all the reels 10a, 10b, and 10c are stopped by the reel stop process, the outcome (symbol display mode) at that time is transmitted to the sub-control board 56 (step S405), and the internal small game Only one counter is counted up (step S406).

  Next, the outcome when all the reels 10a, 10b, and 10c are stopped is determined, and it is determined whether or not a prize is won with a JAC symbol (step S407) or whether or not a small role symbol is won (step S412). The The JAC symbol used here can be used, for example, as a replay symbol at normal times, but a mode in which a dedicated JAC symbol is provided separately may be used.

  As a result of the above determination, when there is no winning of either the JAC symbol or the small role symbol (No), the process proceeds to step S415 and the winning flag is turned OFF. In this case, the flag has not been turned on due to the lottery, or even if the flag is turned on, the player has made a mistake in pressing the “special small role”, or other small role symbols cannot be arranged. It is considered that either the winning was missed or the player actively avoided the winning.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S407 or step S412 that there has been a winning in the JAC symbol or small role symbol (Yes), respectively, the main control board 50 issues a medal payout corresponding to the winning symbol in the hopper device. In addition, the payout sound command is transmitted to the sub control board 56 (steps S409 and S413). Further, when the main control board 50 instructs the payout, the payout counter is counted up by that number (steps S409 and S414). If such a count-up process is not particularly necessary, steps S409 and S414 may be omitted.

  When a prize is won with a JAC symbol during the big bonus game (step S407 = Yes), a game opportunity called a “JAC game” is given to the player. Since the content of the JAC game is the same as that of the regular bonus game, in this case, an RB / JAC game game process is executed following step S409 (step S410).

  The contents of the RB / JAC game game process will be described later with reference to another flowchart. When the RB / JAC game game process is completed once, the JAC game counter is incremented there (step S411).

  Similarly, when there is a winning in the JAC symbol or small role symbol, step S415 is executed subsequent to step S411 or step S414, respectively, and the winning flag is turned OFF there. Then, after each game end, it is determined whether or not the big bonus game itself should be ended (step S416), and while the end condition is not satisfied (No), the process returns to step S403 and the next start processing is performed. Done.

In general, a big bonus game ends when any of the following conditions is satisfied.
(1) The count of the small role game counter has reached 30 in step S406.
(2) The count number of the JAC game counter has reached 3 in step S411.
If any of the above conditions is satisfied, the end determination in step S416 is affirmed (Yes), and then the big bonus game end processing is performed and the winning value table is restored (step S417). Since the winning value table is different between the general gaming state and the replay time gaming state, the winning value table corresponding to the internal state (mode) of the transfer destination is selected here. In addition to the above (1) and (2), “(3) the total number of payouts in the big bonus game exceeds a predetermined number (for example, about 450) as a condition for ending the big bonus game” May be added.

(5-2. RB / JAC game processing)
FIG. 9 specifically shows the contents of the RB / JAC game process. Here, first, initialization processing is performed, and the random value lottery winning value table is changed for the RB / JAC game (step S501). The hit value table changed here holds more JAC symbol hit values than usual, and it can be said that the winning probability by the JAC symbol is higher.

  Next, a start process (step S502) and a stop process (step S503) of the reel device 10 are executed. When all the reels 10a, 10b, and 10c are stopped by the stop process, the outcome (symbol display mode) at that time is transmitted from the main control board 50 to the sub control board 56 (step S504), and the RB / JAC game counter is set to 1. Is counted up (step S505).

  Next, it is determined whether or not the outcome when all the reels 10a, 10b, and 10c are stopped is a predetermined winning symbol (step S506). The winning symbol here is usually the same as the JAC symbol (dedicated “JAC-JAC-JAC” or the combined “Replay-Replay-Replay”), but other winning symbols (for example, “BAR”). -"Replay-Replay", "7-Replay-Replay", etc.) may be provided.

  If all the reels 10a, 10b, 10c are stopped when the outcome is not a winning symbol (step S506 = No), the process proceeds to step S510, and the winning flag is turned OFF. In this case, it is considered that either the flag was not turned on simply because it was shifted to the lottery, or the player missed the prize because the symbols were not arranged even if the flag was turned on (probability Is extremely low).

  Conversely, if it is determined that the outcome at the time of stoppage is a winning symbol (Yes), the main control board 50 drives the hopper device 54 to execute a prescribed number (for example, 12) of medals and pays out. The sound command is transmitted to the sub control board 56 (step S508). When a payout is made, the payout counter is counted up by that number (step S509), and subsequently, the winning flag is turned off (step S510).

  Also in the RB / JAC game processing, the end determination (step S511) of one JAC game (regular bonus game) is performed. If the winning in the JAC game (regular bonus game) has not yet reached a certain number of times (for example, 8 times), the end determination is denied (No), the process returns to step S502, and the JAC game (regular bonus game) is continued. The Thereafter, when the winning in the JAC game (regular bonus game) reaches a certain number of times (for example, 8 times), it is determined (Yes) that one JAC game (regular bonus game) should be ended there. In this case, the process proceeds to step S512, the JAC game (regular bonus game) is finished, the winning value table is returned to the state before change (for the small role game), and the big bonus game process (FIG. 8) is restored. To do.

(6. Production process)
The above is an example of game control by the main control board 50, but in the slot machine 1 of the present embodiment, the presentation operation is controlled by the sub-control board 56 as the game progresses.

  FIG. 10 shows an example of effect processing executed by the sub control board 56. When the slot machine 1 is turned on, an initialization process is first performed in the effect process (step S801). Next, a medal insertion command transmitted from the main control board 50 is awaited. When the medal insertion command is actually transmitted, an effect of outputting an insertion sound, a betting sound, etc. is performed in accordance with this command (step S802).

  Subsequently, a winning (start) flag command transmitted from the main control board 50 is awaited (step S803). The winning (starting) flag command is transmitted from the main control board 50 in response to the operation of the starting lever 24. When the winning (starting) flag command is received, the sub-control board 56 controls the rendering operation in accordance with the winning (starting) flag command. . The effect operation here is, for example, an output of a reel start sound or a notification effect of a winning combination by the liquid crystal display 42.

  When the start effect is performed, the first to third stop information commands are then awaited (steps S804 to S806). When the three stop buttons 26, 28, and 30 are operated in order, the first to second stop information commands are sequentially transmitted from the main control board 50 to the sub control board 56. Control of the presentation operation according to the winning flag and the first to third stop information commands is performed. The effect operation here is, for example, output of each reel stop sound, effect of turning off the reel, image effect by the liquid crystal display 42, and the like. In particular, when the third stop information command is received, an effect operation corresponding to the winning combination is performed (step S806).

  Then, since a payout command is transmitted from the main control board 50 according to the result of the determination processing, the sub control board 56 receives this and produces an effect by the payout sound output (step S807). Further, a game status command transmitted from the main control board 50 is awaited here, and the current game status is examined from the received command. The game status represents, for example, “big bonus game”, “regular bonus game”, “JAC game”, “bonus game end”, or the like.

(7. Assist time)
The above is the contents of the general effect process by the sub control board 56. In addition, in the present embodiment, it is possible to execute “assist time (AT)” in the control process by the sub control board 56. . In this “assist time”, when winning in the internal lottery, it is possible to disclose to the player information related to the stop operation suitable for the winning flag at that time. Therefore, the player can operate the stop buttons 26, 28, and 30 in accordance with the disclosed information, thereby receiving a winning assistance.
(7-1. Game flow)
FIG. 11 conceptually shows a game flow (game flow) in the slot machine 1. As described above, in the present embodiment, there are a normal gaming state and a special gaming state with respect to the control processing of the main control board 50, and the above big bonus game or regular bonus game corresponds to the special gaming state. Normal gaming state.

  On the other hand, in the control process (effect process) by the sub-control board 56, there is an “assist time” as a specific game state in addition to the normal game state. Information about the pushing order is disclosed (or taught, specified, announced, suggested, announced, etc.) to the player. Therefore, during the “assist time”, the player can win the “special small role” simply by operating the stop buttons 26, 28, and 30 in accordance with the disclosed “pushing order”. Game value (out of play) can be acquired relatively easily.

  In order to shift to such an “assist time”, it is necessary to win an “AT lottery” performed internally in the sub-control board 56, but as a precondition, an internal state called “chance zone” is further assumed. Must be migrated. Hereinafter, the flow from the “normal gaming state” to the “assist time” will be described along the game flow of FIG.

(7-2. Chance zone transfer lottery)
First, during a stay in a general normal gaming state, a “chance zone shift lottery” is performed internally on the sub-control board 56. This “chance zone transition lottery” is performed when a certain kind of small role (for example, “replay” or “middle cherry (thing that stops at the middle prize line)”) is won in each game. Specifically, when a flag command indicating a winning type “replay” or “middle stage cherry” is transmitted from the main control board 50, a “chance zone transition lottery” is performed on the sub-control board 56 in response thereto.

  Compared to the probability of winning “Replay” in each game in the normal gaming state (for example, about 1 / 7.3), the probability of winning “Medium Stage Cherry” (for example, about 1/256) is lower. On the contrary, the probability of winning “replay” rather than the probability of winning “chance zone transition lottery” (for example, about 1 / 1.7 to 1 / 1.3) triggered by winning “middle stage cherry” The value is set lower (for example, about 1/1 / 18.6). The reason why the winning probability of the “chance zone shift lottery” is wide is that the difference due to the setting (1 to 6) of the slot machine 1 is taken into consideration. The winning probability of “lottery” is set to be low. Considering the above in total, the probability of transition from the normal gaming state to the “chance zone” is approximately in the range of 1/125 (setting 1) to 1/98 (setting 6).

  In addition, in this embodiment, after the end of the big bonus game or the regular bonus game, a “high probability state” of a certain number of games (for example, about 50 times) is provided. In this “high probability state”, “chance zone transition lottery” "" Will be even higher.

(7-3. AT lottery)
When the above “chance zone shift lottery” is won, the sub-control board 56 shifts and stays in an internal state called “chance zone” in the control process. When moving or staying in this “chance zone”, “AT lottery” or “falling / demotion lottery (so-called punk lottery)” is performed. Among these, the “AT lottery” is further divided into an “AT stock lottery” and an “AT release lottery”. When the “AT stock lottery” is won, the sub-control board 56 internally “AT One “stock” is added and stored. Further, if the “AT stock number” is stored 1 or more, the “AT latent state” is internally set, and the “AT release lottery” is performed in this “AT latent state”. Then, when “AT release lottery” is won, only one “AT stock number” stored internally is released, and apparently the result of winning “AT lottery” appears.

  The above is the detailed contents of the “AT lottery”, but for the sake of simplicity, here, when winning a kind of small role (for example, “watermelon” or “middle cherries”) while staying in the “chance zone” It may be considered that “AT lottery” is performed with this as an opportunity. However, in order to make the transition to the “assist time” smooth here, the winning probability (for example, about 1/91) of “watermelon” is higher than “middle cherries” in the internal lottery, Probability of winning the “AT lottery” triggered by “watermelon” (for example, about 1 / 1.7 to 1.7) is the probability of winning for “center cherry” (for example, 8.2 minutes) Higher than about 1 / 2.0). Therefore, if “watermelon” is won while staying in the “chance zone” (“AT is hiding”), it shifts to “assist time” (AT win) with a relatively high probability.

(7-4. Falling / Demotion lottery)
On the other hand, the other “relegation / falling lottery” is for performing a process of falling from the “chance zone” and returning to the normal gaming state when winning. As mentioned above, during the normal gaming state, the “Replay” election was the opportunity for the “Chance Zone Transition Lottery”, but this time the “Replay” or “Special Small Role” election was used as the opportunity for the “Relegation / Trash lottery” Is done. In this embodiment, the probability of falling from the “chance zone” triggered by the winning of “replay” (for example, about 1 / 5.1) is the probability of falling due to the winning of the “special small role” ( For example, it is set higher than about 14.1 to 13.6. Needless to say, when the player falls from the “chance zone” and returns to the normal gaming state, the “chance zone transition lottery” is started again.

(7-5. Chance game)
FIG. 12 shows an effect image displayed on the liquid crystal display 42 in order to disclose (or teach, announce, notify, suggest, announce, etc.) to the player when the above “AT lottery” is won. An example is shown. Here, for example, character information such as “ten thousand RUSH” is displayed, announcements and sound effects are output from the speaker 44, and the decorative lamps 45, 46, and 48 of the housing 2 are lit in a fixed pattern. A flashing effect is performed.

  In addition, when it is determined that the “AT lottery” is won as described above, it is determined that the “assist time” will be shifted ahead, but in this embodiment, before the “assist time” is actually shifted, Two stages of “chance games (1), (2)” are executed. During these “chance games (1), (2)”, the liquid crystal display 42 displays an effect image according to some story or scene development, and is finally displayed as “chance game (2)”. Based on the result of the effect image, the number of games (the length of the period) in which the “assist time” is executed is determined.

  13 to 17 show examples of various effect images displayed on the liquid crystal display 42 during the “chance games (1), (2)”. Specifically, during the “chance games (1), (2)”, a series of effect images on the theme of horse racing is displayed on the liquid crystal display 42, and the “chance game ( In “1)”, an effect image of content for selecting a racehorse is displayed (FIG. 13). This “chance game (1)” is made up of a certain number of games (for example, 10 times), and if “Replay” is won during this time, an effect display is displayed on the screen to confirm the selection of the racehorse. .

  At this time, the faces of a plurality of racehorses that are candidates for selection are displayed side by side in the horizontal direction. In particular, the face of the racehorse located at the left end is enlarged, and the horse number is displayed with the name of the horse. It is in the state. In addition, probability values (candidate values, prospective information) such as “20%” and “35%” are added below the face of each racehorse, and these probability values indicate the probability of winning in the next race. (Expected).

  These multiple racehorses move on the screen in the order of frame-by-frame movement in the left direction for each game, and each time the horses to be enlarged are displayed in an orderly manner. Is done. Then, when “replay” is won during 10 games as described above, the selection is confirmed for the racehorse that has been enlarged. If “Replay” is not won during 10 games, the racehorse that was initially displayed in an enlarged manner is selected.

  Furthermore, in this embodiment, when a small role other than “Bell” or “Replay” is won during 10 games of “Chance Game (1)”, the arrangement of the racehorses displayed on the screen is changed accordingly. It has become a thing. In the effect image displayed in this case, for example, as shown in FIG. 14, the probability values added to the individual racehorses are generally high (all 45% or more), and the “strong horse” is correspondingly high. It is a content that visually appeals to the player that it will be easily selected.

  In any case, when a racehorse is selected in the production, in the next “chance game (2)” that is the second stage, an effect image of the content of the actual race is displayed (FIG. 15 to FIG. 15). FIG. 17). Then, in the story development here, the number of games for which the “assist time” is finally performed is determined by the result of winning or losing the previously selected racehorse (for example, 50 times when winning the race and 10 times when losing). Is done.

(7-6. During assist time)
After passing through the above “chance games (1), (2)”, a process of shifting to “assist time (AT)” is finally performed. As already explained, during the “Assist Time”, information on the pushing order to win the “Special Bonus” = “Bell” will be disclosed, and other small roles such as “Watermelon”, “Cherry”, When “Replay” is won, information on the winning flag at that time is disclosed (see FIG. 18). Therefore, when the order of pushing the “bell” is disclosed, the player can easily win the “bell” by operating the stop buttons 26, 28, and 30 in order according to the pushing order.

  Alternatively, when information about winning flags such as “watermelon” and “cherry” is disclosed, the player operates the stop buttons 26 to 30 while aiming the respective symbols while the reels 10a to 10c are rotating (so-called “eyes” Can press "). In this case, the player can win each symbol much more easily than when no information is disclosed about the winning flag. In the case of this embodiment, “replay” is a reel arrangement (with a symbol interval of 4 or less) that allows a player to easily win a prize simply by operating the stop buttons 26-30.

(7-7. Continuation of assist time)
As described above, when the racehorse wins in the production in the “chance game (2)”, the number of games of the “assist time” is set to 50, for example, and conversely, when the racehorse loses, it is set to 10 for example. However, in some cases, a larger number of times may be set internally. That is, the racehorse “50 times when winning” and “10 times when losing” means the minimum number of games guaranteed, and in fact, in the internal distribution lottery. When the race is won, the number of continuous games of “Assist Time” is set up to 500 times (average of about 113 times) and even when lost, up to 100 times (average of about 13 times).

  Therefore, when the number of times more than 50 times or 10 times is set internally in the sub-control board 56, the fact that the “assist time” has ended once with the number of times of the game shown first is displayed in a stunning manner. However, the “assist time” is continuously displayed by the next game start (betting operation / medal insertion or starting lever operation). In the present embodiment, the number of games for which the “assist time” is continued, such as “+20 times” and “+50 times”, is displayed as character information (see FIG. 19). In this case, the “AT AT” step shown in FIG. 11 is continued in the game flow. Note that the assist time continuation effect will be described later.

(7-8. Continuous specification of assist time)
The above is the content related to the continuation specification of one “assist time”. However, in this embodiment, even if one “assist time” ends, the process proceeds to the next “assist time” continuously. Specifications (so-called “renso specifications”) are prepared. In this case, in the game flow, since the “at AT” step shown in FIG. 11 returns to the “chance game (1)” step, an effect image for re-selecting the racehorse is displayed from there. (See FIG. 13).

  If the racehorse reselected at this time wins the race during the next “chance game (2)” (see FIG. 16), the number of times that the next “assist time” can be continued is at least 50 times. Is set. In this case, since the racehorse selected in the previous “chance game (1)” lost the race of the “chance game (2)” (see FIG. 17), the previous “assist time” ended in 10 times. Even so, this time you will be given the opportunity to re-select the racehorse and see if the race wins or loses again.

(7-9. Others)
In this embodiment, when the big bonus game is won during the “assist time”, the order of pushing the “bell” won during the small bonus game of the big bonus game is disclosed (for example, “Super Big” This is referred to as “bonus” or the like. For this reason, the player can secure a large amount of balls obtained in one big bonus game.

  On the other hand, if a big bonus game is won during a normal game other than the “assist time”, the pushing order of the “bell” won during the small role game in the big bonus game may not be disclosed (so-called “normal” Big bonus "). In this case, since the winning probability of “Bell” is relatively lowered, the average number of medals and the like obtained is smaller than the above “Super Big Bonus”.

  In the normal gaming state, as shown in FIG. 21, for example, as shown in FIG. 21, a “scene where a specific racehorse laps around the paddock” is displayed. Then, for example, as shown in FIG. 22, the type of the racehorse is switched, and thereafter, the effect of switching to another type of racehorse (not shown) is performed relatively frequently. By touching such an effect image, the player can increase a sense of expectation that “AT winning” is approaching, and can continue to maintain a high game motivation thereafter.

(7-10. Assist time production process)
Next, the “assist time effect process” performed on the sub-control board 56 during the “assist time” will be specifically described.

  FIG. 23 shows the contents of the AT effect process. In the game flow of FIG. 11, when the state is internally shifted to the “AT” state, the AT effect processing of FIG. 23 is basically executed on the sub-control board 56.

  In this AT effect process, first, an effect display process during the “assist time” is performed (step S901). As already described, in this effect display process, the “push order” for assisting the winning of “Bell” is displayed on the liquid crystal display 42, the remaining number of games of “Assist Time”, the number of digested games, etc. Information is displayed in a stunning manner (see FIG. 18).

  During AT, it is determined whether or not the “assist time” should be continued (step S902). For example, even if a total of 50 “assist times” are determined internally in the previous “chance games (1), (2)”, the player has only 10 times in terms of production until then. May be disclosed (presented, announced, etc.). In this case, even if the first 10 games are over, the number of games of “assist time” still remains internally, so it is determined here that the AT continues (step S902 = Yes).

  If it is determined that the AT is continued, it is then determined whether or not the internal remaining number of games is 10 or more (step S903). In the above example, 50 times of “assist time” was won internally, but only 10 times were disclosed to the player for the production, so the remaining games for the remaining 40 times are internally shown here. There will be. In such a case, the determination in step S903 is affirmed (Yes), and therefore, processing for determining the effect display content (step S904) is performed. Table 1 below shows a distribution table used for determining the effect display contents.

  In the distribution table of Table 1, for example, “+10” is displayed as the type of effect display content to perform the AT continuation effect, “+20” is displayed to perform the AT continuation effect, or “+50” is displayed to display the AT. Either the continuation effect is performed or the AT revival effect is performed after the transition to the “paddock screen” is selected. Which is selected depends on the number of remaining games at that time. Further, as shown by the numerical values in Table 1, the selection distribution ratio of the effect display contents differs depending on the remaining number of games (10 times, 20 times to 40 times, 50 times or more). .

  When the effect display content is determined, it is next determined whether or not it is a revival effect (step S905). In Table 11, when any of “+10”, “+20”, and “+50” is selected as the effect display content, these are AT continuous effects, so the determination in step S905 is denied (No) and the continuous effect is performed. Processing (step S907) is performed. In this case, for example, as shown in FIG. 19, the number of AT continuations such as “+50” is displayed large on the screen. Thereby, the player can feel great joy and surprise by touching the display of the unexpected number of AT continuations. Although not shown here, when the other “+10” and “+20” are selected as the contents of the effect display, each AT continuation count is displayed on the screen in a similar manner.

  On the other hand, when the effect display content to be transferred to the “paddock screen” is selected in step S904, the AT revival effect is performed after the “assist time” once ends on the effect. Accordingly, in this case, the determination in step S905 is affirmed (Yes), and the restoration effect process (step S906) is performed.

  When the revival effect process is performed, when the final game of “assist time” ends (all reels stop and payout is completed) and a bet operation is performed for the next game, on the screen, for example, as shown in FIG. The effect of switching to the “paddock screen” is performed. As a result, the player recognizes that the “assist time” has ended as scheduled.

  Next, when the player operates the start lever 24, an effect of returning to the effect screen (see FIG. 18) “at AT” is performed. As a result, even if the player thinks that the "assist time" has once ended, it feels as if the "assist time" has been restored at the start of the next game, and enters the game with thrilling excitement. be able to. In the AT revival production, an effect image that appeals to the player (for example, a special character appears and shouts the name of the racehorse, and the racehorse returns to the race in response to this) May be displayed.

  Similarly, if the number of remaining games determined internally is 10 or more, the determination in step S903 is continuously affirmed (Yes) and the next effect display content is determined again (step S904). . Thus, for example, when 10 times of “assist time” is first ended, an AT continuation effect in which “+10” is displayed is performed, and when 10 times of “assist time” is further ended, this time, “paddock screen” is displayed. Thus, a flow of production rich in various changes, such as the AT revival production being performed after the transition to, is created.

  Eventually, when the number of remaining games determined internally is less than 10, the determination in step S903 is denied (No), and in this case, the AT continuation effect and the AT revival effect are not performed. When the number of remaining games determined internally is finally zero, the determination in step S902 is denied (No), and AT end effect processing (step S908) is performed. As a result, the player can clearly recognize that the “assist time” has ended, and can change the feeling afterwards to tackle the normal game.

  In the revival effect process (step S906), after apparently ending the “assist time”, the effect images of “chance game (1)” and “chance game (2)” are displayed again. In production, the racehorse can be selected again and the subsequent race can be produced. In this case, the “assist time” continues only within the range of the number of games already determined internally, but from the viewpoint of the player, there is an opportunity to determine the number of games of “assist time” again. Since it feels as if it was given, the player can be surprised and surprised, and the production effect is enhanced.

(8. Other specifications related to assist time)
In the present embodiment, some ancillary specifications are prepared in relation to “assist time”.

  (1) First, in FIG. 11, “AT lottery” is also performed in the “AT” game. Therefore, even during “AT”, “AT lottery” may be won internally, and in this case, “AT stock number” is stored and added. In this case, once the “assist time” is completed, the loop returns from the “AT” step in FIG. 11 to the “Derby Chance (1)” step, and continuously enters the “assist time”. It will be.

  (2) In the JAC game (or regular bonus game) in the big bonus game (see FIG. 9), when the winning in the JAC symbol is deviated (so-called “JAC losing”), “AT” “Lottery” is won and the next “Assist Time” shift is confirmed. Note that although the probability of JAC is set to be extremely low (for example, about 0.1%), in this embodiment, a value is given in the reverse sense that such a rare loss is allocated.

  Further, in this case, a process (AT continuous change) for continuously generating “assist time” by sorting lottery is performed. In this sort lottery, for example, a continuous number is given in the range of 1 to 15 times, and the player is given an opportunity to continuously execute the “assist time” accordingly.

  (3) In the “AT” game, for example, if the internal lottery is lost five times in succession, the number of “assist time” games that have already been determined are added internally. “Lost” here means a so-called “pure loss” lottery result, and when such “pure loss” appears five times in succession, another privilege is given to the player. ing. The number of games to be added is set, for example, in a range of 20 to 100 times, and the number of games is added by an internal sorting lottery.

  (4) In FIG. 11, when the 1121 game elapses without shifting to the bonus game during normal game and without winning the “AT lottery”, the process for forcibly winning the “AT lottery” is thereby performed. Done internally. As a result, the player will eventually be relieved (so-called “ceiling”) even after a long period of time without any benefits such as “bonus game” or “assist time”. The game can be continued with a sense of security.

  (5) Although it has already been described in FIG. 11 that the racehorse is frequently switched on the screen of the liquid crystal display 42 when staying in the “chance zone” internally or in the “AT latent state” ( In addition, in this embodiment, an effect image in which “golden horse (horse name: gold rush)” appears as a rare character is displayed. Whether or not such a character (so-called “premier character”) appears is determined by an internal effect lottery, and a special effect is performed when winning in the lottery. A player who comes into contact with such a production image can imagine that there is a possibility of “AT winning” internally and can tackle the game while being excited and excited.

It is a front view of a slot machine. FIG. 2 is a block diagram schematically showing the configuration of a slot machine. It is the flowchart which showed the process sequence of 1 game (rotational game) in a slot machine. It is a flowchart of a starting process. It is a flowchart of the reel stop process corresponding to a special small role. It is a flowchart of a normal reel stop process. It is a flowchart of a determination process. It is a flowchart of a big bonus game process. It is a flowchart of a regular bonus / JAC game process. It is a flowchart of effect processing. FIG. 4 conceptually shows a game flow in the slot machine. It is an example of the effect image displayed at the time of AT winning. It is an example of the effect image displayed during a chance game (1). Apart from FIG. 13, it is an example of the effect image displayed during the chance game (1). It is a part of a continuous effect image displayed in the chance game (2). FIG. 15 is a part of a continuous effect image displayed in the chance game (2). Apart from FIG. 16, it is a part of a continuous effect image displayed in the chance game (2). It is an example of the effect image (assist information) displayed during AT. It is an example of the effect image for announcing the number of continuous games of AT. It is an example of the effect image displayed at the time of winning a super big bonus. It is an example of the effect image displayed during a normal game or a chance zone. Apart from FIG. 21, it is an example of an effect image displayed during a normal game or a chance zone. It is a flowchart of AT effect processing.

Explanation of symbols

1 Slot Machine 10 Reel Device 24 Start Lever 26, 28, 30 Stop Button 34 Display Unit 42 Liquid Crystal Display 50 Main Control Board 56 Sub Control Board

Claims (1)

A plurality of movable bodies with symbols in the circumferential direction are provided, and a symbol display device that displays a combination of the plurality of symbols when the movable body is stopped while rotating the movable bodies to change the display of the symbols is provided. In a gaming machine in which the presence or absence of a prize is determined for each game according to the combination mode of the symbols when each movable body is stopped,
Special gaming state transition means for transitioning to a special gaming state when there is a prize in a specific symbol display mode when the symbol display device is stopped;
Continuous transition means for continuously transitioning to the special gaming state when a specific condition is satisfied;
An amusement machine comprising: an effect means for performing a predetermined effect during the special game state.

Images