JP2008229036A - Slot machine and control method for game - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a slot machine capable of preventing a player consuming a large amount of game media such as tokens from getting unpleasant and distrustful relative to a game or losing an interest and a concern in the game. <P>SOLUTION: A slot machine includes a symbol display device and a controller programmed to execute the processing of: (A) executing a game in which the plurality of symbols are variably displayed and then stop-displayed and game media are paid out; (B) shifting a mode to an insurance mode on condition that a predetermined number of game media is inserted; (C) counting the number of games in the insurance mode; (D) paying out a predetermined number of game media when the game number reaches a specific number; and (E) shifting the mode to the non-insurance mode while keeping the number of games when a predetermined insurance canceling condition is established. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2009,JPO&INPIT

Description

The present invention relates to a slot machine and a game control method.

Conventionally, in a facility where a slot machine or the like (for example, see Patent Documents 1 to 44) is installed, a game can be played by inserting various game media such as coins and cash into the slot machine. Each slot machine pays out a payout according to a winning state (game result) generated by the progress of the game.

In casinos with multiple slot machines, a portion of the credits consumed by each slot machine is reserved, and when the amount of the reservation reaches a certain amount, There is a so-called “jackpot” that pays out a large amount that cannot be paid out. In such a slot machine, normally, hits are generated with a set probability, and the player advances the game in the hope that the hits will occur. Then, by a determination different from the normal winning determination based on the probability set in the slot machine, a jackpot hit occurs in any slot machine at a certain timing.

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However, the player who can enjoy the benefits of the “jackpot” in the conventional slot machine is a player who plays a game in the slot machine in which the jackpot is generated. Therefore, a player who has consumed a large number of coins cannot enjoy the benefits of “jackpot” at all, and a player who has just started playing can enjoy the benefits of “jackpot”. When such a situation occurs, a player who has consumed a large number of coins may be uncomfortable or distrustful of the game, or may lose interest or interest in the game.

Further, as a conventional slot machine, there is a slot machine in which a return to a player is performed when the loss of a game medium reaches a certain amount (see, for example, Patent Document 15). However, in such a slot machine, even though the profit is not gained by the game, if the loss amount increases, the profit by the return will be obtained. , I felt unfair and sometimes lost interest and interest in games.

The present invention has been made in view of the above-described problems, and an object of the present invention is to play a game in which a large number of coins and other game media are consumed without causing an unfair feeling to the player who is benefiting from the game. It is an object of the present invention to provide a slot machine and a game control method that can prevent a person from feeling uncomfortable or distrustful of a game or losing interest or interest in a game.

In order to solve the above-described problems, the present invention provides the following.
(1) a symbol display device capable of variable display of a plurality of symbols;
A slot machine comprising: a controller programmed to execute the following processes (A) to (E):
(A) After a gaming medium having a predetermined maximum number of BETs or less is betted, the symbol display device performs variable display of the plurality of symbols, and then performs stop display, and the plurality of symbols that are stopped and displayed are displayed. A process of executing a game for paying a number of game media according to the combination;
(B) Processing for shifting from the non-insurance mode to the insured mode on condition that a predetermined number of game media have been inserted;
(C) In the insurance mode, a process for counting the number of games played after the transition to the insurance mode,
(D) a process of paying a predetermined number of game media when the number of games counted in the process (C) reaches a specific number; and
(E) A process of shifting from the insurance mode to the non-insurance mode while maintaining the number of games counted in the process (C) when a predetermined insurance cancellation condition is satisfied.

According to the invention of (1), on the condition that a predetermined number (for example, 1) of game media (for example, coins or credits corresponding to coins) has been inserted, the mode shifts from the non-insurance mode to the insured mode. In the insurance mode, the number of games played after the transition to the insurance mode is counted.
When the counted number of games reaches a specific number (for example, 1000), a predetermined number (for example, 360) of game media is paid, and when a predetermined insurance cancellation condition is satisfied, the counted game While maintaining the number of times, the mode shifts from the insurance mode to the non-insurance mode.

Accordingly, the player can shift from the non-insurance mode to the insurance mode by inserting a predetermined number of game media. In addition, in the insurance mode, even when a game is played for a long period of time and a large number of game media are consumed, the player can obtain a predetermined profit by playing the game until the number of games reaches a specific number. Can be obtained. Therefore, it is possible to prevent a player who has consumed a large number of game media from causing discomfort or distrust in the game or losing interest or interest in the game. On the other hand, since it becomes possible to obtain a predetermined profit by playing a game for a long time, the player who is profited by the game does not feel unfair.

In addition, when insurance cancellation conditions are met (for example, a game in which the number of game media payments is greater than or equal to the specified number, a mystery bonus or a jackpot bonus has occurred) Transition to no mode. Therefore, if a predetermined number of game media are again inserted after that and the mode is not shifted to the insurance mode, a return (granting a profit when the number of games reaches a specific number) cannot be received. As a result, it is possible to narrow down the return targets to players who have played the game accurately for a long time and have raised discomfort or distrust in the game.
On the other hand, since the counted number of games is maintained when shifting from the insurance mode to the non-insurance mode, for example, when a predetermined number of game media are again inserted and the insurance mode is switched to In addition to the maintained number of games, it is possible to employ a configuration in which the number of games is counted. In such a configuration, it is possible to prevent the player's expectation of return from being impaired. it can.
As a result, it is possible to prevent a player who has consumed a large number of game media from causing discomfort or distrust to the game or losing interest or interest in the game. There is no feeling of unfairness to the player who is getting.

Furthermore, the present invention provides the following.
(2) The slot machine of (1) above,
The controller is further programmed to execute the following process (F).
(F) Counted by the process (C) when the number of game media payments exceeds a predetermined number before the number of games counted by the process (C) reaches the specific number. Processing to clear the number of games.

According to the invention of (2), when a game in which the number of game media payments is a predetermined number or more is played, the counted number of games is cleared.

Therefore, by temporarily paying out a large number of game media, it is possible to delay the return time for a player who has dispelled discomfort and distrust in the game. As a result, it is possible to narrow down the target of the return to the players who have played the game over a long period of time more accurately and have raised discomfort or distrust in the game.

Furthermore, the present invention provides the following.
(3) The slot machine of (2) above,
The insurance cancellation condition is that a game in which the number of game media payments is equal to or greater than a prescribed number has been played,
The prescribed number is smaller than the predetermined number.

According to the invention of (3), when a game in which the number of paid game media is equal to or greater than a prescribed number (for example, 120) is played, the mode shifts from the insurance mode to the non-insurance mode while the counted number of games is maintained. However, when a game having a predetermined number (for example, 180) or more larger than the specified number is played, the counted number of games is cleared.
In this way, by providing a difference according to the number of game media payments between the insurance cancellation condition and the game count clearing condition, the object of return can be more accurately played over a long period of time, and the game is uncomfortable. It is possible to narrow down to players who have raised a sense of distrust.

Furthermore, the present invention provides the following.
(4) The slot machine according to any one of (1) to (3) above,
In the process (E), the controller shifts from the insurance mode to the non-insurance mode while maintaining the counted number of games, and then in the process (B), switches from the non-insurance mode to the insurance mode. In the process (C), in addition to the number of games maintained in the process (E), the number of games played after the transition to the insurance mode is counted in the process (C). .

According to the invention of (4), it can be prevented that the player's expectation for the return is impaired. As a result, it is possible to prevent a player who has consumed a large number of game media from causing discomfort and distrust to the game or losing interest or interest in the game. There is no feeling of unfairness to the player who is getting.

Furthermore, the present invention provides the following.
(5) The slot machine according to any one of (1) to (4) above,
In the insurance mode, the process (C) is a process of counting the number of games played by betting on the gaming medium having the maximum BET number after shifting to the insurance mode.

According to the invention of (5), it is possible to count only games played by BET of game media having the maximum BET number.

Therefore, it is possible to perform a return for a player with a large investment amount of game media, and it is possible to prevent an unfair feeling or unpleasantness or distrust.

Furthermore, the present invention provides the following.
(6) (A) After a gaming medium having a predetermined maximum number of BETs or less is bet, a symbol display device capable of displaying a plurality of symbols in a variable manner displays a stop display after a plurality of symbols are displayed in a variable manner. Performing a game for paying a number of game media according to a combination of the plurality of symbols that are stopped and displayed;
(B) transitioning from the non-insurance mode to the insured mode on condition that a predetermined number of game media have been inserted;
(C) In the insurance mode, the step of counting the number of games played since the transition to the insurance mode,
(D) paying a predetermined number of game media when the number of games counted in the above step (C) reaches a specific number of times; and
(E) When a predetermined insurance cancellation condition is satisfied, the game includes a step of shifting from the insurance mode to the non-insurance mode while maintaining the number of games counted by the process (C). Control method.

According to the invention of (6), on the condition that a predetermined number (for example, 1) of game media (for example, coins or credits equivalent to coins) has been inserted, the mode shifts from the non-insurance mode to the insurance mode. In the insurance mode, the number of games played after the transition to the insurance mode is counted.
When the counted number of games reaches a specific number (for example, 1000), a predetermined number (for example, 360) of game media is paid, and when a predetermined insurance cancellation condition is satisfied, the counted game While maintaining the number of times, the mode shifts from the insurance mode to the non-insurance mode.

Therefore, it is possible to prevent a player who has consumed a large number of game media from causing discomfort and distrust to the game or losing interest in the game. There is no feeling of unfairness to the players who are.

According to the present invention, a player who has consumed a large number of coins and other game media does not feel unfair to a player who has gained a profit from the game, and the game is uncomfortable or distrustful. Or losing interest or interest in the game can be prevented.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view schematically showing a slot machine according to an embodiment of the present invention.
In the slot machine 10, coins, bills, or electronic valuable information corresponding to these are used as game media. However, in the present invention, the game medium is not particularly limited, and examples thereof include medals, tokens, electronic money, and tickets. The ticket is not particularly limited, and examples thereof include a ticket with a barcode as described later.

The slot machine 10 includes a cabinet 11, a top box 12 installed on the upper side of the cabinet 11, and a main door 13 provided on the front surface of the cabinet 11. Inside the cabinet 11, three reels 14 (14L, 14C, 14R) as symbol display devices are rotatably provided. On the outer peripheral surface of each reel 14, a symbol row composed of 22 symbols (hereinafter also referred to as symbols) is drawn.

A lower image display panel 16 is provided in front of each reel 14 in the main door 13. The lower image display panel 16 includes a transparent liquid crystal panel, and various information related to the game, effect images, and the like are displayed during the game.

The lower image display panel 16 is formed with three display windows 15 (15L, 15C, 15R) whose rear surface can be visually recognized, and is drawn on the outer peripheral surface of each reel 14 through each display window 15. Three symbols are displayed each. The lower image display panel 16 is formed with a single winning line L that horizontally crosses the three display windows 15. The winning line L defines a combination of symbols. When the combination of symbols stopped and displayed on the winning line L is a predetermined combination, the number of coins corresponding to the combination and the number of coins inserted (BET number) is paid out.

In the present invention, for example, a plurality of pay lines L are formed which cross the three display windows 15 horizontally or diagonally, and the number of pay lines L corresponding to the number of coins inserted is activated. When the combination of symbols stopped and displayed on the activated pay line L is a predetermined combination, the number of coins corresponding to the combination may be paid out.
Further, regardless of the combination of symbols, when a specific symbol (a so-called scatter symbol) is stopped and displayed on the display window, coins corresponding to the number of the symbols may be paid out.

Further, although not shown, a touch panel 69 is provided on the front surface of the lower image display panel 16, and the player can input various instructions by operating the touch panel 69.

Below the lower image display panel 16, a control panel 20 including a plurality of buttons 23 to 27 into which instructions relating to game progress are input by a player, a coin receiving slot 21 for receiving coins into the cabinet 11, and banknotes A discriminator 22 is provided.

The control panel 20 is provided with a spin button 23, a change button 24, a cashout button 25, a 1-BET button 26, and a maximum BET button 27. The spin button 23 is for inputting an instruction to start the rotation of the reel 14. The change button 24 is used when requesting a change of money from an attendant of the game facility. The cashout button 25 is used to input an instruction to pay out the credited coins to the coin tray 18.

The 1-BET button 26 is used to input an instruction to bet one coin among the credited coins on the game. The maximum BET button 27 is used to input an instruction to bet a coin on a maximum number of BETs (three in this embodiment) that can be bet on one game among credited coins. . The maximum number of BETs may be configured so that a casino operator, a store clerk, or the like can set it.

The banknote discriminator 22 recognizes the suitability of banknotes and accepts regular banknotes in the cabinet 11. Note that the bill validator 22 may be configured to be able to read a barcode-added ticket 39 to be described later. On the lower front surface of the main door 13, that is, below the control panel 20, a berry glass 34 on which a character of the slot machine 10 is drawn is provided.

An upper image display panel 33 is provided on the front surface of the top box 12. The upper image display panel 33 includes a liquid crystal panel, and displays, for example, an effect image, an introduction of game contents, and an explanation of game rules.

The top box 12 is provided with a speaker 29. Below the upper image display panel 33, a ticket printer 35, a card reader 36, a data display 37, and a keypad 38 are provided. The ticket printer 35 prints on a ticket a bar code in which data such as the number of credits, date and time, and an identification number of the slot machine 10 is encoded, and outputs it as a ticket 39 with bar code. A player reads a ticket 39 with a barcode into another slot machine and plays a game with the slot machine, or exchanges the ticket 39 with a barcode with a bill or the like at a predetermined place in a gaming facility (for example, a cashier in a casino). You can do it.

The card reader 36 reads data from a smart card and writes data to the smart card. The smart card is a card possessed by the player, and stores, for example, data for identifying the player and data relating to a history of games played by the player. The smart card may store data corresponding to coins, bills, or credits. Further, a magnetic stripe card may be adopted instead of the smart card. The data display 37 is composed of a fluorescent display or the like and displays, for example, data read by the card reader 36 or data input by the player through the keypad 38. The keypad 38 is used for inputting instructions and data related to ticket issuance and the like.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an internal configuration of the slot machine shown in FIG.
The gaming board 50 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 51, a ROM 55 and a boot ROM 52, a card slot 53S corresponding to a memory card 53, and an IC socket corresponding to a GAL (Generic Array Logic) 54 connected to each other via an internal bus. 54S.

The memory card 53 includes a nonvolatile memory such as a compact flash (registered trademark), and stores a game program and a game system program. The game program includes a stop symbol determination program. The stop symbol determination program is a program for determining a symbol (code No. corresponding to a symbol) of each reel 14 to be stopped and displayed on the winning line L. The stop symbol determination program includes symbol weighting data corresponding to each of a plurality of types of payout rates (for example, 80%, 84%, and 88%). The symbol weighting data is the code number of each symbol for each of the three reels 14. (Refer to FIG. 23) is data indicating the correspondence between one and a plurality of random values belonging to a predetermined numerical range (0 to 256). The payout rate is determined based on the payout rate setting data output from the GAL 54, and the symbols to be stopped and displayed are determined based on the symbol weighting data corresponding to the payout rate.

The card slot 53S is configured so that the memory card 53 can be inserted and removed, and is connected to the mother board 40 by an IDE bus. Therefore, by extracting the memory card 53 from the card slot 53S, writing another game program and game system program in the memory card 53, and inserting the memory card 53 into the card slot 53S, The contents can be changed. Further, by replacing the memory card 53 storing one game program and game system program with a memory card 53 storing another game program and game system program, the types and contents of games played in the slot machine 10 can be changed. It is also possible to change.
The game program includes a program related to game progress. Further, the game program includes image data and sound data output during the game, image data for notifying that the mode is insured, and sound data.

The GAL 54 is a kind of PLD having an OR fixed type array structure. The GAL 54 includes a plurality of input ports and output ports. When predetermined data is input to the input port, the GAL 54 outputs data corresponding to the data from the output port. The data output from this output port is the aforementioned payout rate setting data.
The IC socket 54S is configured so that the GAL 54 can be attached and detached, and is connected to the mother board 40 by a PCI bus. Accordingly, the payout rate setting data output from the GAL 54 can be changed by extracting the GAL 54 from the IC socket 54S, rewriting the program stored in the GAL 54, and attaching the GAL 54 to the IC socket 54S. Also, the payout rate setting data can be changed by replacing the GAL 54 with another GAL 54.

The CPU 51, the ROM 55, and the boot ROM 52 connected to each other by an internal bus are connected to the motherboard 40 by a PCI bus. The PCI bus transmits signals between the motherboard 40 and the gaming board 50 and supplies power from the motherboard 40 to the gaming board 50. The ROM 55 stores country identification information and an authentication program. The boot ROM 52 stores a preliminary authentication program and a program (boot code) for the CPU 51 to start the preliminary authentication program.

The authentication program is a program (tamper check program) for authenticating the game program and the game system program. The authentication program is described in accordance with a procedure (authentication procedure) for verifying and verifying that the game program and game system program to be authenticated are not falsified, that is, authenticating the game program and game system program. Has been. The preliminary authentication program is a program for authenticating the above-described authentication program. The preliminary authentication program is described in accordance with a proof that the authentication program to be authenticated has not been falsified, that is, a procedure for authenticating the authentication program (authentication procedure).

The motherboard 40 is configured by using a commercially available general-purpose motherboard (printed wiring board on which basic components of a personal computer are mounted), a main CPU 41, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 42, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 43, and a communication. Interface 44. The main CPU 41, ROM 42 and RAM 43 mounted on the mother board 40 constitute the controller of the present invention.

The ROM 42 includes a memory device such as a flash memory, and stores a program such as a basic input / output system (BIOS) executed by the main CPU 41 and permanent data. When the BIOS is executed by the main CPU 41, initialization processing of predetermined peripheral devices is performed, and acquisition processing of the game program and game system program stored in the memory card 53 via the gaming board 50 is started. The In the present invention, the ROM 42 may be rewritable or impossible.

The RAM 43 stores data and programs used when the main CPU 41 operates. Further, the RAM 43 can store an authentication program, a game program, and a game system program that are read out via the gaming board 50.

The RAM 43 is provided with a storage area for insurance mode flags. The insurance mode flag is a flag indicating whether the insurance mode or the non-insurance mode. The storage area of the insurance mode flag is, for example, a storage area having a predetermined number of bits, and the insurance mode flag is “ON” or “OFF” depending on the storage contents in the storage area. The insurance mode flag “ON” indicates the insurance mode, and the insurance mode flag “OFF” indicates the non-insurance mode.
Further, the RAM 43 is provided with a data storage area indicating the number of games C.
Further, the RAM 43 stores data such as the number of credits, the number of insertions and the number of payouts in one game. The communication interface 44 is for communicating with an external device such as a casino server via the communication line 101.

Further, a main body PCB (Printed Circuit Board) 60 and a door PCB 80, which will be described later, are connected to the mother board 40 by USB. Further, a power supply unit 45 is connected to the mother board 40. When power is supplied from the power supply unit 45 to the mother board 40, the main CPU 41 of the mother board 40 is activated, and power is supplied to the gaming board 50 via the PCI bus to activate the CPU 51.

The main body PCB 60 and the door PCB 80 are connected to devices and devices that generate input signals input to the main CPU 41 and devices and devices whose operations are controlled by control signals output from the main CPU 41. The main CPU 41 executes a predetermined arithmetic process by executing a game program and a game system program stored in the RAM 43 based on an input signal input to the main CPU 41, and stores the result in the RAM 43. A control signal is transmitted to each device or apparatus as a control process for the device or apparatus.

The main body PCB 60 includes a lamp 30, a sub CPU 61, a hopper 66, a coin detection unit 67, a graphic board 68, a speaker 29, a touch panel 69, a bill validator 22, a ticket printer 35, a card reader 36, a key switch 38S, and a data display 37. Is connected. The lamp 30 is lit in a predetermined pattern based on a control signal output from the main CPU 41.

The sub CPU 61 controls the rotation and stop of the reels 14 (14L, 14C, 14R). A motor drive circuit 62 including an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) 63 and a driver 64 is connected to the sub CPU 61. The FPGA 63 is a programmable electronic circuit such as an LSI and functions as a control circuit for the stepping motor 70. The driver 64 functions as a circuit for amplifying pulses input to the stepping motor 70. A stepping motor 70 (70L, 70C, 70R) that rotates each reel 14 is connected to the motor drive circuit 62. The stepping motor 70 is a 1-2 phase excitation type stepping motor.

In the present invention, the excitation method of the stepping motor is not particularly limited, and for example, a two-phase excitation method, a one-phase excitation method, or the like can be adopted. Moreover, it is good also as employ | adopting a DC motor instead of a stepping motor. When a DC motor is employed, a deviation counter, a D / A converter, and a servo amplifier are sequentially connected to the sub CPU 61, and the DC motor is connected to the servo amplifier. The rotational position of the DC motor is detected by a rotary encoder, and the current rotational position of the DC motor is supplied as data from the rotary encoder to the deviation counter.

Further, an index detection circuit 65 and a position detection change circuit 71 are connected to the sub CPU 61. The index detection circuit 65 detects the position of a rotating reel 14 (an index to be described later), and can detect the step-out of the reel 14. The control of the rotation and stop of the reel 14 will be described in detail later with reference to the drawings.

The position change detection circuit 71 detects a change in the stop position of the reel 14 after the rotation of the reel 14 is stopped. For example, the position change detection circuit 71 may detect that the stop position has been changed by a player to be a combination of symbols that forcibly wins a prize, even though it is not actually a combination of symbols that will win a prize. The change of the stop position of the reel 14 related to the above is detected. The position change detection circuit 71 is configured to detect a change in the stop position of the reel 14 by detecting fins (not shown) attached to the inner portion of the reel 14 at a predetermined interval, for example.

The hopper 66 is installed in the cabinet 11 and pays out a predetermined number of coins from the coin payout opening 19 to the coin tray 18 based on a control signal output from the main CPU 41. The coin detector 67 is provided inside the coin payout exit 19 and outputs an input signal to the main CPU 41 when it detects that a predetermined number of coins have been paid out from the coin payout exit 19. .

The graphic board 68 controls image display on the upper image display panel 33 and the lower image display panel 16 based on a control signal output from the main CPU 41. The credit amount display unit 31 of the lower image display panel 16 displays the credit amount stored in the RAM 43. In addition, the payout number display section 31 of the lower image display panel 16 displays the number of coins paid out.
The graphic board 68 includes a VDP (Video Display Processor) that generates image data based on a control signal output from the main CPU 41, a video RAM that temporarily stores image data generated by the VDP, and the like. Note that the image data used when generating the image data by VDP is included in the game program read from the memory card 53 and stored in the RAM 43.

The bill validator 22 recognizes whether or not a bill is appropriate and accepts a regular bill into the cabinet 11. When the bill validator 22 accepts a regular bill, it outputs an input signal to the main CPU 41 based on the amount of the bill. The main CPU 41 stores the number of credits corresponding to the amount of bills transmitted by the input signal in the RAM 43.

Based on the control signal output from the main CPU 41, the ticket printer 35 prints on the ticket a barcode in which data such as the number of credits, date and time, and identification number of the slot machine 10 stored in the RAM 43 is encoded. Output as a ticket 39 with code.
The card reader 36 reads data from the smart card and transmits it to the main CPU 41, or writes data to the smart card based on a control signal from the main CPU 41. The key switch 38S is provided on the keypad 38, and outputs a predetermined input signal to the main CPU 41 when the keypad 38 is operated by the player. The data display 37 displays data read by the card reader 36 or data input by the player via the keypad 38 based on a control signal output from the main CPU 41.

A control panel 20, a reverter 21S, a coin counter 21C, and a cold cathode tube 81 are connected to the door PCB 80. The control panel 20 includes a spin switch 23S corresponding to the spin button 23, a change switch 24S corresponding to the change button 24, a CASHOUT switch 25S corresponding to the CASHOUT button 25, a 1-BET switch 26S corresponding to the 1-BET button 26, A maximum BET switch 27S corresponding to the maximum BET button 27 is provided. Each of the switches 23S to 27S outputs an input signal to the main CPU 41 when the corresponding button 23 to 27 is operated by the player.

The coin counter 21 </ b> C is provided inside the coin receiving slot 21 and identifies whether or not the coin inserted into the coin receiving slot 21 by the player is appropriate. Items other than regular coins are discharged from the coin payout exit 19. The coin counter 21 </ b> C outputs an input signal to the main CPU 41 when a regular coin is detected.

The reverter 21S operates based on a control signal output from the main CPU 41, and a coin (not shown) installed in the slot machine 10 is a coin recognized as a regular coin by the coin counter 21C. Or, it is distributed to the hopper 66. That is, when the hopper 66 is filled with coins, regular coins are distributed to the cash box by the reverter 21S. On the other hand, when the hopper 66 is not filled with coins, regular coins are distributed to the hopper 66. The cold cathode tube 81 functions as a backlight installed on the back side of the lower image display panel 16 and the upper image display panel 33, and lights up based on a control signal output from the main CPU 41.

FIG. 3 is a diagram for explaining a payout table in the present embodiment.
“DOUBLE”, “3BAR”, “2BAR”, “1BAR”, and “CHERRY” in the payout table indicate the types of symbols drawn on each reel 14. In addition to the above symbols, a bonus trigger that is a symbol corresponding to “GIF BONUS” and other symbols are also drawn on each reel 14. Note that “ANY BAR” in the payout table indicates “3BAR”, “2BAR” or “1BAR”, and “ANY” indicates an arbitrary symbol.

The combination of symbols shown in the payout table indicates a combination, and each combination is set with the number of coins to be paid out according to the number of BETs.
When the combination of symbols stopped and displayed by each reel 14 is a combination of “GIFT BONUS” bonus triggers, a predetermined number of coins are paid out as a jackpot. A numerical value corresponding to “GIF BONUS” described in the payout table indicates an expected value of the coin payout number, and is constant regardless of the BET number. Accordingly, the probability of “GIF BONUS” is high with 1 BET and the number of coin payouts is small, but the probability of “GIF BONUS” is low with MAXBET, and the coin payout number is increased. This probability is set by symbol weighting data.

The jackpot is provided with four types “GRAND”, “MAJOR”, “MINOR”, and “MINI” in descending order of the number of coins to be paid out. The occurrence probability of these jackpots is set to be lower as the number of coins to be paid out is larger, and which jackpot is established is randomly determined using a random value. Note that the expected value of the number of coins paid out in each jackpot is constant.

When the 1-BET button 26 or the maximum BET button 27 is pressed and the spin button 23 is pressed to start the game, the symbol row drawn on each reel 14 is displayed along with the rotation of the reel 14. The window 15 is scrolled from the upper side to the lower side. After a predetermined time has elapsed, the reel 15 is stopped and displayed as the rotation of the reel 14 stops. Furthermore, when various combinations are determined based on combinations of symbols, and the combination of symbols corresponding to combinations stops on the winning line L, the number of coins paid out according to the combination is determined by the player. It is added to the credits owned. When the combination of “GIFT BONUS” bonus triggers is established, a predetermined payout amount is added to the credits owned by the player.

In the present embodiment, a case where coins are paid out by jackpot when a combination of bonus triggers is established will be described. However, in the present invention, a gaming state that occurs when a combination of bonus triggers is established is not particularly limited, and examples thereof include a free game, a second game, and a mystery bonus. Further, when a bonus trigger is established, a ticket 39 with a barcode on which predetermined information is printed may be issued.

In the payout table, a symbol combination indicated in italics and shaded is a combination in which the number of coins to be paid out is 180 or more when established in a game played with MAXBET.
In a game played in MAXBET during the insurance mode, if any one of these symbol combinations is established, the counted number of games is cleared and returned to zero.

In the payout table, a combination of symbols shown in italics is a combination in which the number of coins to be paid out is 90 or more when established in a game played with MAXBET.
In a game played in MAXBET during the insurance mode, when any one of these symbol combinations is established, the insurance mode is shifted to the non-insurance mode.

Here, insurance (insurance) in the slot machine 10 will be described.
The slot machine 10 has two modes for insurance, an insurance mode “RESCUE PAY ON” and a non-insurance mode “RESCUE PAY OFF”.
Immediately after the slot machine 10 is turned on, the non-insurance mode is set, and the mode is shifted to the insurance mode when a predetermined number of game media are inserted.
In the insurance mode, the number of games since the transition to the insurance mode is counted.
In the present embodiment, the game to be counted is a game played with MAXBET.
When the number of games counted in the insurance mode reaches 1000, 360 coins are paid out (RESCUE PAY).
However, in a game played with MAXBET during the insurance mode, the game shifts from the insurance mode to the non-insurance mode when a combination with a coin payout count of 90 or more is established. Furthermore, in a game played with MAXBET during the insurance mode, if a combination with a coin payout number of 180 or more is established, the counted number of games is cleared and returned to zero.

Next, game flows [P01] to [P20] performed in the slot machine 10 will be described with reference to FIGS.
4 to 12 are views showing images displayed on the upper image display panel 33 and the lower image display panel 16 included in the slot machine 10.
In the figure, reference numeral 15 (15L, 15C, 15R) denotes a display window. Reference numeral 31 denotes a credit number display section. Reference numeral 32 denotes a payout number display section. L indicates a winning line.

[P01]
In the non-insurance mode, as shown in FIG. 4, an image 92 a indicating “RESCUE OFF” is displayed on the upper image display panel 33. The image 92a is an image indicating that the current gaming state is the non-insurance mode.
In addition, a normal effect image 94 a is displayed on the lower image display panel 16.
Further, a button-type image 90 a indicating “BET FOR RESCUE PAY MORE INFO” is displayed in the lower right portion of the lower image display panel 16. The button-type image 90a is an image for requesting input of a command for outputting information on the insurance mode.
The player can input a command to output information related to the insurance mode by touching a predetermined portion of the touch panel 69 (not shown) corresponding to the display area of the button-type image 90a.

[P02]
When the above command is input, the lower image display panel 16 displays an image 91 indicating information on the insurance mode.
The image 91 includes information related to the insurance mode as follows.
(I) The number of times a predetermined number of coins are paid when the number of games is reached, that is, a specific number (1000),
(II) Number of coins paid when the number of games reaches a specific number (360),
(III) When a game that is MAXBET and the number of coins to be paid out is 180 before the number of games reaches a specific number, the number of games is cleared, that is, the game number clear condition,
(IV) A game that is performed in MAXBET and the number of coins paid is less than a predetermined number (180), that is, a game to be counted, and
(V) Number of credits (1) necessary for shifting from the non-insurance mode to the insurance mode.

Although not shown in the drawing, the insurance cancellation condition may be displayed as information on the insurance mode.
As the insurance cancellation condition, for example, when a game with a MAXBET and a coin payout number of 90 is played before the number of games reaches a specific number of times, the mode shifts from the insurance mode to the non-insurance mode. Can be mentioned.

In addition, the image 91 includes information requesting selection of whether or not to shift from the non-insurance mode to the insurance mode, and a button type image “YES” 91a and a button type image “NO” 91b.
When a predetermined area of the touch panel 69 corresponding to the display area of the button type image “NO” 91a is touched by the player, the image shown in [P1] is displayed on the lower image display panel 16.
On the other hand, when a predetermined area of the touch panel 69 corresponding to the display area of the button type image “YES” 91b is touched by the player, the mode shifts from the non-insurance mode to the insurance mode.

[P03]
When the mode is shifted to the insurance mode, as shown in FIG. 5, an image 92 b indicating “RESCUE ON” is displayed on the upper image display panel 33. The image 92b is an image indicating that the current gaming state is the insurance mode.
Further, a normal effect image 94b is displayed on the lower image display panel 16. The normal effect image 94b in the insurance mode is different from the normal effect image 94a in the non-insurance mode. However, these images are randomly selected and displayed using random numbers, and is the insurance mode? It is not selected depending on whether or not there is a non-insurance mode.
Further, a button-type image 90 b indicating “RESCUE ON MORE INFO” is displayed in the lower right portion of the lower image display panel 16. The button-type image 90b is an image for indicating that the current gaming state is the insurance mode and inputting a command to output information on the insurance mode.
When a predetermined portion of the touch panel 69 corresponding to the display area of the button-type image 90b is touched by the player, the image shown in [P02] is displayed on the lower image display panel 16.

Below the button-type image 90b, there is an image 93 indicating that 360 coins will be paid when the number of games played in MAXBET (game to be counted) reaches a specific number. It is displayed.

[P04]
When the game is started in the insurance mode, the normal effect image 94c is displayed on the lower image display panel 16 and the button-type image 90b and the image 93 are continued in the first game in the insurance mode. Is displayed. The image 93 shows that 360 coins are paid when the game to be counted is played 1000 more times.

[P05]
In the second game in the insurance mode, the normal effect image 94d is displayed and the image 93 is continuously displayed. The image 93 shows that 360 coins are paid when the game to be counted is played 999 times.
As described above, in the slot machine 10, the image 93 indicating the remaining number of games from the time when the game in the insurance mode is started until the number of games to be counted reaches a specific number is displayed on the lower image. It is displayed on the panel 16. Thereafter, the remaining number of games is counted down in the image 93 unless the above-described game number clearing condition or insurance cancellation condition is satisfied. However, since the counted number of games is maintained when only the insurance cancellation condition is satisfied, the number of games is counted from the number of games when the mode is shifted from the non-insurance mode to the insurance mode again. As described above, in the insurance mode, the normal effect image 94 is displayed until the number of games reaches 990 (notice setting value).

[P06]
When the number of games in the insurance mode reaches 990 (notice setting value), as shown in FIG. 6, the upper image display panel 33 has an image 92b indicating that the current gaming state is the insurance mode. In addition to the display, an image 96 indicating that the number of remaining games until the number of games to be counted reaches a specific number is 10 games is displayed.
The lower image display panel 16 also displays an image 97 indicating that the remaining number of games until the number of games to be counted reaches a specific number is 10 games.
Further, a specific effect image 95a is displayed on the lower image display panel 16. The specific effect image 95 is displayed after the number of games to be counted reaches the notice setting value in the insurance mode.

[P07]
When the number of games in the insurance mode becomes 991, the remaining number of games indicated by the image 96 displayed on the upper image display panel 33 changes from 10 games to 9 games.
The lower image display panel 16 also displays an image 93 indicating that the remaining number of games is nine until the number of games to be counted reaches a specific number.
Further, a specific effect image 95b is displayed on the lower image display panel 16.
The specific effect image 95b is a video having contents continued from the specific effect image 95a in [P06].

[P08] to [P15]
Thereafter, as the number of games in the insurance mode increases, as shown in FIGS. 7 to 10, the remaining number of games indicated by the image 96 displayed on the upper image display panel 33 gradually decreases. In the lower image display panel 16, the remaining number of games indicated by the image 93 is gradually reduced. Further, the specific effect images 95c to 95j are sequentially displayed on the lower image display panel 16 according to the number of remaining games.
The specific effect image 95 is a video in which a character (angel) performs a series of actions (appearing and spreading wings), and each of the specific effect images 95a to 95j includes a plurality of specific effect images 95 along the time axis. Divided into two.

[P16]
When the number of games in the insurance mode reaches a specific number, 360 coins (credits) are paid out.
At this time, on the upper image display panel 33, as shown in FIG. 11, an image 97a indicating that coins are paid out based on the number of games in the insurance mode reaching a specific number is displayed. ing. A similar image 97 b is also displayed on the lower left side of the lower image display panel 16.
Further, the lower image display panel 16 displays a specific effect image 95h having contents continued from the specific effect images 95a to 95j. Further, a specific effect image 95h ′ is displayed on the display window 15 (15L, 15C, 15R).

[P17]
In the game where the number of games in the insurance mode has reached a specific number, when a predetermined combination is established, coins are paid out based on the fact that the number of games in the insurance mode has reached a specific number. After that, coins are paid out based on the combination.
At this time, the specific effect image 95h is continuously displayed on the lower image display panel 16, but the specific effect image 95h ′ on the display window 15 disappears and the reel 14 can be visually recognized.
Also, an image 97c indicating that coins are paid out according to the combination is displayed on the lower left side of the lower image display panel 16.

[P18]
When the game in which the number of games in the insurance mode has reached a specific number is completed, the number of games is cleared and the mode is shifted from the insurance mode to the non-insurance mode.
At this time, an image 98 indicating “RESCUE OFF” is displayed on the lower image display panel 16. The image 98 is an image showing that the mode has been shifted from the insurance mode to the non-insurance mode.

[P19]
When the combination of symbols “BAR”-“BAR”-“BAR” with coin payout is established when the number of games has not reached 990 (notice setting value) in the insurance mode, as shown in FIG. The upper image display panel 33 displays an image 97d indicating “45CREDITS”.
The image 97d is an image showing the number of coins paid out by the symbol combination "BAR"-"BAR"-"BAR".
The upper image display panel 33 displays an image 92b indicating “RESCUE ON”. The image 92b is an image indicating that the current gaming state is the insurance mode.
On the lower image display panel 16, an effect image 94e corresponding to the symbol combination "BAR"-"BAR"-"BAR" is displayed. “BAR” corresponds to “1BAR” in the payout table shown in FIG.
Further, the lower image display panel 16 displays an image 93 indicating the number of remaining games until the number of games to be counted reaches a specific number, and the symbol combination “BAR”-“BAR”- An image 97c indicating the number of coins to be paid out by “BAR” is displayed.

[P20]
In the insurance mode, after the number of games reaches 990 (preliminary setting value), the combination of symbols “BAR”-“BAR”-“BAR” with coin payout is established as in [P19]. Is displayed on the lower image display panel 16 as an image 97c indicating the number of coins to be paid out by the symbol combination “BAR”-“BAR”-“BAR”.
However, the effect image 94e corresponding to the symbol combination "BAR"-"BAR"-"BAR" is not displayed, and the specific effect image 95c is displayed as in [P08] (see FIG. 7). Other images are displayed in the same manner as [P08].

Next, processing performed in the slot machine 10 will be described.
[Main processing]
FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing main processing performed in the slot machine 10.
First, in the slot machine 10, a startup process is performed (step S101). The activation process will be described later in detail with reference to FIG.
When the main CPU 41 receives a detection signal output from the coin counter 21C when the coin inserted into the coin receiving slot 21 is detected by the coin counter 21C after the activation process, A process of adding the number of credits stored in the RAM 43 is performed.

After the process of step S101, the slot machine 10 displays a non-insurance mode image (step S102). In this processing, the main CPU 41 transmits a non-insurance mode image drawing command to the graphic board 68. In the graphic board 68, based on the drawing command, the VDP extracts image data from the RAM 43 and develops it in the video RAM to generate one frame of image data. This image data is used as the upper image display panel 33 and the lower image. The data is output to the display panel 16. As a result, for example, an image as shown in [P01] (see FIG. 4) is displayed on the upper image display panel 33 and the lower image display panel 16.

Next, the main CPU 41 determines whether or not the current gaming state is the insurance mode, that is, whether or not the insurance mode flag stored in the RAM 43 is “ON” (step S103).

If it is determined in step S103 that the current gaming state is not the insurance mode, the game execution process A (non-insurance mode) is executed (step S200), and then the process returns to step S103. The game execution process A will be described later in detail with reference to FIG.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S103 that the current gaming state is the insurance mode, it is determined whether or not the number of games C stored in the RAM 43 is less than the preset notice value (990 in the present embodiment) ( Step S104).

If it is determined in step S104 that the number of games C is less than the notice set value, a game execution process (insurance mode / before reaching the notice set value) is executed (step S300), and then the process returns to step S104. The game execution process B will be described later in detail with reference to FIG.

On the other hand, in step S104, if it is determined that the number of games C is not less than the preset notice value, that is, greater than or equal to the preset notice value, the number of games C stored in the RAM 43 is less than a value (999) smaller than the specific number. Is determined (step S105).

If it is determined in step S105 that the number of games C is less than one value less than the specified number, the game number C does not reach the specified number in the next game, so the game execution process C (insurance mode / notice setting value) (After arrival) is executed (step S400), and then the process returns to step S103. The game execution process C will be described later in detail with reference to FIG.

If it is determined in step S105 that the number of games C is one value smaller than the specified number, the game number C may reach the specified number in the next game. (When the specific number of times has been reached) is executed (step S500), and then the process returns to step S2023. The game execution process D will be described later in detail with reference to FIG.

[Insurance setting process]
Further, in the slot machine 10, as described above, when the non-insurance mode image is displayed ([P01] see FIG. 4), the insurance setting process is performed at a predetermined cycle.
FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing a subroutine of insurance setting processing.
First, the main CPU 41 determines whether or not the button type image “RESCUE PAY” 90a included in the image shown in [P01] displayed on the lower image display panel 16 is touched, that is, in the display area of the button type image 90a. It is determined whether or not a detection signal output from the touch panel 69 when a predetermined portion of the corresponding touch panel 69 is touched (step S110). If it is determined that the button-type image 90a is not touched, this subroutine is terminated.

On the other hand, if it is determined that the button-type image 90a has been touched, an insurance information image (including a button-type image “YES” 91a and a button-type image “NO” 91b for “RESCUE ON” on the lower image display panel 16 is displayed. [P02] (see FIG. 4) is displayed (step S111).

Next, it is determined whether or not the button type image “YES” 91a is touched (step S112). If it is determined in step S112 that the button type image “YES” 91a has not been touched, it is determined whether or not the button type image “NO” 91b has been touched (step S113). On the other hand, if it is determined that the touch is not performed, the process returns to step S111.

When the button type image “YES” 91a is touched in step S112, the main CPU 41 performs a process of subtracting a predetermined number (1 in the present embodiment) of the number of credits from the number of credits stored in the RAM 43 ( Step S114).
Note that instead of the number of credits, a corresponding bill or coin may be inserted.
Next, the main CPU 41 shifts to the insurance mode by setting the insurance mode flag stored in the RAM 43 to “ON” (step S115).
Next, the main CPU 41 determines whether or not the number of games C ≠ 0 in the data storage area indicating the number of games C provided in the RAM 43 (step S116).
If it is determined in step S116 that the number of games C is not 0, that is, the number of games C is not counted, the main CPU 41 stores the number of games C in the storage area of the data indicating the number of games C provided in the RAM 43. = 0 is set and counting of the number of games is started (step S117).

If it is determined in step S116 that the number of games C ≠ 0, or if the process of step S117 is executed, [P03] (see FIG. 5) is displayed on the upper image display panel 33 and the lower image display panel 16. The insurance mode image shown is displayed (step S118). The insurance mode image includes an image 93 indicating the number of remaining games until the number of games to be counted reaches a specific number. If it is determined in step S116 that the number of games C ≠ 0, the number of games already counted is present, and the remaining number of games obtained by subtracting the number of games from the specific number is displayed by the image 93. After the process of step S118, this subroutine is terminated.

[Game execution processing A (non-insurance mode)]
FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing a subroutine of the game execution process A that is called and executed in step S200 of the subroutine shown in FIG.
First, the main CPU 41 performs a process of displaying a non-insurance mode image ([P01] see FIG. 4) on the upper image display panel 33 and the lower image display panel 16 (step S201).
Next, the main CPU 41 determines whether or not a coin has been bet (step S202). In this process, the main CPU 41 outputs an input signal output from the 1-BET switch 26S when the 1-BET button 26 is operated, or is output from the maximum BET switch 27S when the maximum BET button 27 is operated. It is determined whether an input signal is received. If it is determined that no coin is bet, the process returns to step S202.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S202 that a coin has been betted, the main CPU 41 performs a process of subtracting the number of credits stored in the RAM 43 in accordance with the number of coins bet (step S203). If the number of coins bet is larger than the number of credits stored in the RAM 43, the process returns to step S202 without performing the process of subtracting the number of credits stored in the RAM 43. When the number of coins bet exceeds the upper limit (three in this embodiment) that can be bet on one game, a process of subtracting the number of credits stored in the RAM 43 is performed. Instead, the process proceeds to step S204.

Next, the main CPU 41 determines whether or not the spin button 23 has been turned on (step S204). In this process, the main CPU 41 determines whether or not an input signal output from the spin switch 23S when the spin button 23 is pressed is received.
If it is determined that the spin button 23 is not turned on, the process returns to step S202. When the spin button 23 is not turned on (for example, when an instruction to end the game is input without the spin button 23 being turned on), the main CPU 41 cancels the subtraction result in step S203. .

In the present embodiment, after a coin is bet (step S202), before determining whether the spin button 23 is turned on (step S204), a process of subtracting the number of credits (step S203) is performed. explain. However, the present invention is not limited to this example. For example, after a coin is bet (step S202), it is determined whether or not the spin button 23 is turned on (step S204), and if it is determined that the spin button 23 is turned on (step S204: YES), the number of credits It is good also as performing the process (step S203) which subtracts.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S204 in FIG. 15 that the spin button 23 has been turned ON, the main CPU 41 performs processing for displaying a normal effect image (for example, a normal effect image 94a). In the present embodiment, the normal effect image 94 is displayed before the spin button 23 is turned on, and a different normal effect image 94 is displayed after the spin button 23 is turned on. In the present invention, the normal effect image 94 may be displayed after the spin button 23 is turned on.

Next, the main CPU 41 performs a stop symbol determination process (step S206). In this stop symbol determination process, the main CPU 41 (arithmetic processing unit) executes the stop symbol determination program stored in the RAM 43 (storage device), thereby the code No. at the stop of each reel 14. To decide. Thereby, a combination of symbols to be stopped and displayed is determined. This process will be described in detail later with reference to FIGS. In the present embodiment, a case will be described in which one combination is determined from a plurality of types by determining the combination of symbols to be stopped and displayed. In the present invention, for example, first, a random value is determined. It is also possible to randomly determine one combination selected from a plurality of types, and then determine a combination of symbols to be stopped and displayed based on the combination.

Next, the main CPU 41 performs a reel rotation control process (step S207). This process is a process of stopping the rotation of each reel so that the combination of symbols corresponding to the combination determined in step S206 is stopped and displayed on the winning line L after starting the rotation of all the reels 14. . This process will be described in detail later with reference to FIGS. Next, the main CPU 41 displays on the lower image display panel 16 an effect image corresponding to the stopped symbols or a combination thereof (step S208).

Next, the main CPU 41 determines whether or not a bonus trigger has been established (step S220). If it is determined that the bonus trigger has been established, one of the four types of jackpots “GRAND”, “MAJOR”, “MINOR” and “MINI” is selected using a random value. Then, a predetermined number of coins are paid out in the jackpot (step S223). When storing coins, the main CPU 41 performs a process of adding the number of credits stored in the RAM 43. On the other hand, when paying out coins, the main CPU 41 sends a control signal to the hopper 66 to pay out a predetermined number of coins. At that time, the coin detection unit 67 counts the number of coins paid out from the hopper 66, and transmits a payout completion signal to the main CPU 41 when the counted value reaches a designated number. As a result, the main CPU 41 stops driving the hopper 66 and ends the coin payout process. Thereafter, this subroutine is terminated.

On the other hand, when determining in step S220 that the bonus trigger has not been established, the main CPU 41 determines whether or not a winning combination has been established (step S221). When determining that a winning combination has been established, the main CPU 41 pays out coins according to the number of BETs and the winning combination (step S222). If it is determined in step S221 that no combination is established, or if the process of step S222 or S223 is executed, this subroutine is terminated.

[Game Execution Process B (Insurance Mode / Before Reaching Setpoint)]
FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing a subroutine of the game execution process B that is called and executed in step S300 of the subroutine shown in FIG.
First, the main CPU 41 performs a process of displaying an insurance mode image ([P03] see FIG. 5) on the upper image display panel 33 and the lower image display panel 16 (step S301).
Thereafter, the processes of steps S302 to S307 are performed. These processes are the same as the processes of steps S202 to S207 shown in FIG.
Next, the main CPU 41 displays on the lower image display panel 16 an effect image (see [P04], [P05] FIG. 5) corresponding to the stopped symbols or a combination thereof (step S308).

Next, the main CPU 41 determines whether or not a bonus trigger has been established (step S320), and when determining that a bonus trigger has been established, performs a jackpot payout process (step S323).
On the other hand, when it is determined in step S320 that the bonus trigger has not been established, the main CPU 41 determines whether or not a combination has been established (step S321). Then, coins are paid out according to the number of BETs and the combination (step S322). If it is determined in step S321 that a winning combination has not been established, this subroutine is terminated.

When the processing of step S322 or S323 is executed, the main CPU 41 determines whether or not the current game is played with MAXBET and the number of coins paid out in step S322 or S323 is equal to or greater than the specified number (90 in this embodiment). It is determined whether or not (step S330).

In step S330, when it is determined that the current game is played with MAXBET and the number of coins to be paid out is not the specified number or more, the main CPU 41 increments the number of games C stored in the RAM 43 (C = C + 1). (Step S332), this subroutine is terminated.

In step S330, when it is determined that the current game is played with MAXBET and the number of coins to be paid out is equal to or greater than the specified number (90), the main CPU 41 sets the insurance mode flag stored in the RAM 43 to “OFF”. To set to the non-insurance mode (step S340).
Next, the main CPU 41 displays on the lower image display panel 16 an image 98 ([P18] see FIG. 11) indicating the transition from the insurance mode to the non-insurance mode (step S341).

Next, it is determined whether or not the current game is played with MAXBET and the number of coins to be paid out is equal to or greater than a predetermined number (180) (step S342). If it is determined that the current game is MAXBET and the condition that the number of coins to be paid out is not less than the predetermined number is not satisfied, this subroutine is terminated. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S342 that the current game is played with MAXBET and the number of coins to be paid out is equal to or greater than a predetermined number, the main CPU 41 stores a data storage area indicating the number of games C provided in the RAM 43. Then, the number of games is cleared by setting the number of games C to C = 0 (step S343), and this subroutine is terminated.

[Game execution process C (Insurance mode / after reaching the preset value)]
FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing a subroutine of the game execution process C that is called and executed in step S400 of the subroutine shown in FIG.
First, the main CPU 41 performs processing for displaying an insurance mode image on the upper image display panel 33 and the lower image display panel 16 (step S401).
Thereafter, the processes in steps S402 to S404 are performed. These processes are the same as the processes in steps S202 to S204 shown in FIG.

Next, the main CPU 41 displays the specific effect images 95a to 95i ([P06] to [S14] see FIGS. 6 to 9) on the lower image display panel 16 (step S405).
As described above, the specific effect image 95 is an image in which an angel as a character appears and performs an action of spreading the wings, and each of the specific effect images 95a to 95j includes the specific effect image 95 along the time axis. It is divided into multiple pieces.
Therefore, as the number of games increases, the specific effect image 95 displays that the angel who is the character appears and gradually spreads the wings.

Subsequently, the processes in steps S406 to S407 are performed, and these processes are the same as the processes in steps S206 to S207 shown in FIG.
After the process of step S407, after the rotation of the reel 14 is stopped, the main CPU 41 performs a process of continuously displaying the specific effect image 95 (step S408).
In the process shown in FIG. 17, when a symbol with coin payout or a combination thereof is established, the main CPU 41 displays the symbol or the combination thereof as shown in [P19] (see FIG. 12). The effect image 94e to be displayed is not displayed. Instead, as shown in [P20] (see FIG. 12), the main CPU 41 displays an image 97c indicating the number of coins paid out by symbols or combinations thereof while displaying the specific effect image 95.

Thereafter, steps S420 to S423, S430 to S432, and S440 to S443 are performed. These processes are the same as steps S320 to S323, S330 to S332, and S340 to S343 shown in FIG.

[Game Execution Processing D (Insurance Mode / When Reaching a Specific Number of Times)]
FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing a subroutine of the game execution process D that is called and executed in step S500 of the subroutine shown in FIG.
First, the main CPU 41 performs processing for displaying an insurance mode image on the upper image display panel 33 and the lower image display panel 16 (step S501).
Thereafter, the processes of steps S502 to S504 are performed. These processes are the same as the processes of steps S202 to S204 shown in FIG.

Next, the main CPU 41 displays the specific effect image 95j ([P15] see FIG. 10) on the lower image display panel 16 (step S505).
The specific effect image 95j has contents continued from the specific effect images 95a to 95i, and the specific effect image 95j displays a state in which an angel as a character spreads its wings.

Subsequently, the processes of steps S506 to S508 are performed, and these processes are the same as the processes of steps S206 to S208 shown in FIG.
After the process of step S507, even after the rotation of the reel 14 is stopped, the main CPU 41 performs a process of continuously displaying the specific effect image 95j (step S508).
In the process shown in FIG. 18 as well, as in FIG. 17, when a symbol accompanied by coin payout or a combination thereof is established, the main CPU 41 determines a specific state as shown in [P20] (see FIG. 12), for example. While displaying the effect image 95, an image 97c indicating the number of coins paid out by the symbols or combinations thereof is displayed.

Next, the main CPU 41 determines whether or not the current game is a MAXBET and the game has a predetermined number of coins (180 coins) or more (step S530).
If it is determined in step S530 that the current game is played with MAXBET and the game is not paid out with a predetermined number or more coins, the game is played with MAXBET and the specified number (90 in this embodiment) or more. It is determined whether or not the game has a payout of coins (step S531).

If it is determined in step S531 that the current game is a MAXBET and there is no coin more than the specified number, the main CPU 41 increments the number of games C = 999 stored in the RAM 43 (C = 999). C + 1) (step S533). Thereby, the game count C reaches the specific count 1000.
Next, the main CPU 41 displays the image shown in [P16] on the upper image display panel 33 and the lower image display panel 16 (step S534).
That is, the upper image display panel 33 displays an image 97a indicating that coins are being paid out based on the number of games in the insurance mode reaching a specific number, and the lower image display panel. A similar image 97b is also displayed on the lower left side of FIG.
Furthermore, the specific effect image 95h of the content continued from the specific effect images 95a to 95j is displayed on the lower image display panel 16. Further, the specific effect image 95h ′ is displayed on the display window 15 (15L, 15C, 15R).

Subsequently, the main CPU 41 pays out a predetermined number (360 in this embodiment) of coins while displaying the image shown in [P16] (step S535).

After the process of step S535, the main CPU 41 can visually recognize the reel 14 by stopping the display of the specific effect image 95h ′ on the display window 15 while displaying the specific effect image 95h on the lower image display panel 16. The specific effect image 95 is displayed in such a manner (step S536).

In step S530, when it is determined that the current game is a MAXBET and the game is not a coin with a predetermined number or more, or when the process of step S536 is executed, the main CPU 41 sets the number of times clear flag Is set to "ON" (step S537). The number-of-times clear flag is a flag indicating that the game number-of-games clearing condition is satisfied when set to “ON”.

If it is determined in step S531 that the current game is a MAXBET and the game has not been paid out more than the specified number, or if the process of step S537 is executed, the main CPU 41 determines whether the insurance cancellation flag Is set to “ON” (step S538). The insurance cancellation flag is a flag indicating that the insurance cancellation condition is satisfied when set to “ON”.

Next, the main CPU 41 determines whether or not a bonus trigger has been established (step S520). If it is determined that a bonus trigger has been established, jackpot payout processing is performed (step S523).
On the other hand, if it is determined in step S520 that the bonus trigger has not been established, the main CPU 41 determines whether or not a winning combination has been established (step S521). If the main CPU 41 determines that a winning combination has been established, Then, coins are paid out according to the number of BETs and the combination (step S522). The payout process in step S534 and step S522 or S523 does not necessarily have to be performed separately, and it is possible to add up the number of payouts and pay out the game media of that payout number in one payout process.

When it is determined in step S521 that a winning combination has not been established, or when the processing of step S522 or S523 is executed, the main CPU 41 determines whether or not the number-of-times clear flag is set to “ON” ( Step S524). When determining that the number-of-times clear flag is set to “ON”, the main CPU 41 sets the number of games C to C = 0 in the data storage area indicating the number of games C provided in the RAM 43. The number of games is cleared (step S525). Next, the main CPU 41 sets the number of times clear flag stored in the RAM 43 to “OFF” (step S526).

If it is determined in step S524 that the number-of-times clear flag is not set to “ON”, or if the process of step S526 is executed, the main CPU 41 sets the insurance cancellation flag stored in the RAM 43 to “ON”. It is determined whether it has been performed (step S527). If it is determined that the insurance cancellation flag is not set to “ON”, this subroutine is terminated.

On the other hand, when determining that the insurance cancellation flag is set to “ON”, the main CPU 41 sets the insurance mode flag stored in the RAM 43 to “OFF” to shift to the non-insurance mode (step S540). ). Next, the main CPU 41 displays on the lower image display panel 16 an image 98 ([P18] see FIG. 11) indicating that the mode has shifted from the insurance mode to the non-insurance mode (step S541), and sets the insurance cancellation flag. “OFF” is set (step S543). Thereafter, this subroutine is terminated.

[Start process]
FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing the procedure of the startup process that is called and executed in step S101 of the flowchart shown in FIG. This activation process is a process performed by the mother board 40 and the gaming board 50. It is assumed that the memory card 53 is inserted into the card slot 53S of the gaming board 50, and the GAL 54 is attached to the IC socket 54S.

First, when the power switch is turned on (power is turned on) in the power supply unit 45, the mother board 40 and the gaming board 50 are activated (steps S1-1 and S2-1). When the mother board 40 and the gaming board 50 are activated, separate processes are performed in parallel. That is, in the gaming board 50, the CPU 51 reads the preliminary authentication program stored in the boot ROM 52, and the authentication program is falsified in advance before loading into the motherboard 40 according to the read preliminary authentication program. Preliminary authentication is performed to confirm and prove that there is no data (step S2-2). On the other hand, in the mother board 40, the main CPU 41 executes the BIOS stored in the ROM 42 and expands the compressed data incorporated in the BIOS into the RAM 43 (step S1-2). Then, the main CPU 41 executes the BIOS expanded in the RAM 43, and performs diagnosis and initialization of various peripheral devices (step S1-3).

Then, since the ROM 55 of the gaming board 50 is connected to the main CPU 41 via the PCI bus, the main CPU 41 reads the authentication program stored in the ROM 55 and stores the read authentication program in the RAM 43. The process to memorize | store is performed (step S1-4). At this time, the main CPU 41 takes the checksum by the ADDSUM method (standard check function) in accordance with the BIOS standard BIOS function, and stores the authentication program in the RAM 43 while confirming whether or not the storage is definitely performed. Let

Next, after confirming what is connected to the IDE bus, the main CPU 41 accesses the memory card 53 inserted into the card slot 53S via the IDE bus, and from the memory card 53, the game program And reading out the game system program. In this case, the main CPU 41 reads out data constituting the game program and the game system program 4 bytes at a time. Subsequently, the main CPU 41 performs authentication for confirming and proving that the read game program and game system program have not been falsified in accordance with the authentication program stored in the RAM 43 (step S1-5). When this authentication process ends normally, the main CPU 41 writes and stores the game program and game system program to be authenticated (authenticated) in the RAM 43 (step S1-6). Next, the main CPU 41 accesses the GAL 54 attached to the IC socket 54S via the PCI bus, reads the payout rate setting data from the GAL 54, and writes and stores it in the RAM 43 (step S1-7). Next, the main CPU 41 reads out the country identification information stored in the ROM 55 of the gaming board 50 via the PCI bus, and performs a process of storing the read country identification information in the RAM 43 (step S1-8). ).

After performing the processing described above, the main CPU 41 executes the processing shown in FIG. 14 by sequentially reading and executing the game program and the game system program.

[Stop symbol determination processing]
FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing a subroutine of stop symbol determination processing that is called and executed in step S206 of the subroutine shown in FIG. This processing is performed by the main CPU 41 executing the stop symbol determination program stored in the RAM 43.
First, the main CPU 41 executes a random number generation program included in the stop symbol determination program to select a random number value corresponding to each of the three reels 14 from a numerical range of 0 to 255 (step S31). ). In the present embodiment, a case where random numbers are generated on a program (a case where so-called software random numbers are used) will be described. However, in the present invention, a random number generator may be provided and a random number may be extracted from the random number generator (a so-called hardware random number is used).

Next, the main CPU 41 (arithmetic processing unit) refers to the symbol weighting data corresponding to the payout rate setting data output from the GAL 54 and stored in the RAM 43 (storage unit), and based on the selected three random number values. The code No. of each reel 14 (See FIG. 23) is determined (step S32). The code No. of each reel 14 Is the code number of the symbol stopped on the winning line L. It corresponds to. The reel code No. Based on the above, a reel rotation control process to be described later is performed.

[Reel rotation control processing]
FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing the reel rotation control process that is called and executed in step S220 of the subroutine shown in FIG. This process is a process performed between the main CPU 41 and the sub CPU 61.

First, the main CPU 41 transmits a start signal for starting reel rotation to the sub CPU 61 (step S40). When the sub CPU 61 receives a start signal from the main CPU 41, the sub CPU 61 performs a reel rotation process (step S51). In this process, the sub CPU 61 supplies a pulse to the motor drive circuit 62. The pulse output from the sub CPU 61 is amplified by the driver 64 and supplied to each stepping motor 70 (70L, 70C, 70R). As a result, each stepping motor 70 rotates, and each reel 14 (14L, 14C, 14R) rotates accordingly. The stepping motor 70 of the 1-2 phase excitation method has a step angle of 0.9 ° and 400 steps per rotation. Therefore, when 400 pulses are supplied to the stepping motor 70, the reel 14 rotates once.

At the start of the rotation of the reel 14, the sub CPU 206 supplies a low-frequency pulse to the motor drive circuit 62, and gradually increases the pulse frequency. Along with this, the rotation speed of the reel 14 increases. When a predetermined time elapses, the pulse frequency is made constant. As a result, the reel 14 rotates at a constant speed.

Here, the rotation operation of the reel 14 will be described with reference to FIG.
22A to 22D are side views for explaining the rotation operation of the reel 14.
As shown in FIG. 22A, a semicircular metal plate 14 a is provided on the side surface of the reel 14. The metal plate 14 a rotates together with the reel 14. In addition, 22 symbols are provided on the peripheral surface of the reel 14. Of the 22 symbols drawn on the peripheral surface of the reel 14, three symbols can be viewed through the display window 15 formed in front of the reel 14. In the figure, a thick arrow indicates the rotation direction of the reel 14. A proximity sensor 65a is provided on the side of the reel 14. The proximity sensor 65a is for detecting the metal plate 14a. The proximity sensor 65a does not move or rotate even when the reel 14 rotates.

FIG. 22A shows the position (hereinafter also referred to as position A) of the metal plate 14a when the proximity sensor 65a starts detecting the metal plate 14a. When the reel 14 rotates while the metal plate 14a is at the position A, the metal plate 14a moves to the position shown in FIG. FIG. 22B shows the position of the metal plate 14a when the metal plate 14a is detected by the proximity sensor 65a (hereinafter also referred to as position B). When the reel 14 rotates while the metal plate 14a is at the position B, the metal plate 14a moves to the position shown in FIG. FIG. 22C shows the position (hereinafter also referred to as position C) of the metal plate 14a when the proximity sensor 65a no longer detects the metal plate 14a.

When the reel 14 rotates while the metal plate 14a is at the position C, the metal plate 14a moves to the position shown in FIG. FIG. 22D shows the position of the metal plate 14a (hereinafter also referred to as position D) when the proximity sensor 65a does not detect the metal plate 14a. When the reel 14 further rotates, the position of the metal plate 14a returns to the position A. As described above, as the reel 14 rotates, the position of the metal plate 14a changes in the order of position A, position B, position C, position D, position A,.

The proximity sensor 65a constitutes an index detection circuit 65 (see FIG. 2). If the state where the proximity sensor 65a detects the metal plate 14a is “High” and the state where the proximity sensor 65a does not detect the metal plate 14a is “Low”, the metal plate 14a is in position A → position B → position C. , The state of the index detection circuit 65 is “High”, and when the metal plate 14a is in the position C → position D → position A, the state of the index detection circuit 65 is “Low”. The sub CPU 61 recognizes the rotational position of the reel 14 with the rise from “Low” to “High” as index (origin) 1 and the fall from “High” to “Low” as index (origin) 2. To do.

After transmitting the start signal to the sub CPU 61 in step S40, the main CPU 40 executes an effect at the time of reel rotation (step S41). This process is performed for a period of time (for example, 3 seconds) determined according to the result of the stop symbol determination process (FIG. 15, step S206), etc. This is a process for performing output and the like.

Next, the main CPU 40 determines whether or not it is time to instruct the stop of the rotation of the reel 14 (step S42).
Here, the timing for instructing the stop of the rotation of the reel 14 is a timing before the minimum necessary time for stopping the rotation of the reel 14 from the time when the effect at the time of the reel rotation is finished. Note that the minimum time required to stop the rotation of the reel 14 is determined in advance.

If it is determined in step S42 that it is not the timing to instruct to stop the rotation of the reel 14, the process returns to step S42, and the effect at the time of reel rotation is continuously performed. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S <b> 42 that the timing for instructing the rotation of the reel 14 to stop is reached, the main CPU 41 stores the code number of the reel stored in the RAM 43. Is transmitted to the sub CPU 61 (step S43). The sub CPU 61 receives a reel code number from the main CPU 41. Is received, the number of steps and the code number stored in the ROM (not shown) provided in the sub CPU 61 are received. And the code No. Is converted into the reel stop position (number of steps) from the index (step S52).

FIG. 23 shows the number of steps and the code number. It is the schematic diagram which showed the corresponding | compatible table | surface. Each code No. Is associated with an index and the number of steps.
Each code No. Corresponds to the symbol drawn on the outer peripheral surface of the reel 14, and the code No. Symbols “00” to “10” correspond to index 1. In addition, the code No. Symbols “11” to “21” correspond to index 2. Further, the number of steps in the correspondence table shown in FIG. 23 is the number of steps based on the index 1. For example, code No. If “08” is “08”, 145 steps from the index 1 are the stop position of the reel. In addition, the code No. If "12", steps 218 from index 1 are the reel stop position.

Next, the sub CPU 61 executes a reel stop process (step S53). In this process, the sub CPU 61 detects the rise (index 1) from “Low” to “High” in the index detection circuit 65 for each reel 14, and at the timing when the index 1 is detected, the sub CPU 61 performs the code in step S52. No. A pulse corresponding to the number of steps converted from is supplied to the motor drive circuit 65, and then the pulse supply is stopped.

For example, if it is determined in step S52 that the stop position of the reel is from index 1 to 145 steps, the sub CPU 61 supplies 145 pulses to the motor drive circuit 65 at the timing when index 1 is detected, Thereafter, the supply of pulses is stopped. If it is determined in step S52 that the reel stop position is 218 steps from index 1, the sub CPU 61 supplies 218 pulses to the motor drive circuit 65 at the timing when index 1 is detected. . As a result, the reel 14 has the code No. determined in step S32 in FIG. The combination of symbols corresponding to the combination determined in step S32 in FIG. 20 is stopped and displayed on the winning line L. On the other hand, the main CPU 41 ends the effect at the time of reel rotation. After the processes of steps S44 and S53 are finished, this process is finished.

It should be noted that the code number transmitted in step S43. Is different from the index detected by the index detection circuit 65 when the rotation of the reel 14 is stopped, the reel 14 has stepped out, so the main CPU 41 displays an error message in the lower image. Processing such as displaying on the display panel 16 is performed, and the game is interrupted.
For example, the code No. corresponding to the index 2 is displayed. If the index detection circuit 65 detects the index 1 when the reel 14L stops rotating in spite of the process of stopping the reel 14L at 12, the game is interrupted.

As described above, according to the slot machine 10, on the condition that one coin is inserted, the game is performed after the mode is shifted from the non-insurance mode to the insurance mode and the insurance mode is switched to the insurance mode. The number of times is counted. When the counted number of games reaches 1000, 360 coins are paid, while before the counted number of games reaches 1000, games with 90 or more coins are paid. When performed, the mode shifts from the insurance mode to the non-insurance mode while maintaining the counted number of games.

Therefore, the player can insert one coin and shift from the non-insurance mode to the insurance mode. Further, in the insurance mode, even when a game is played over a long period of time and a large number of coins are consumed, the player obtains a predetermined profit by playing the game until the number of games reaches 1000. be able to. Therefore, it is possible to prevent a player who has consumed a large number of coins from feeling uncomfortable or distrustful of the game or losing interest or interest in the game. On the other hand, since it becomes possible to obtain 360 coins by playing a game for a long time, it does not give an unfair feeling to a player who is profited from the game.

Also, when a game with 90 or more coins is played, the mode shifts from the insurance mode to the non-insurance mode. Therefore, if one coin is again inserted after that and the mode is not shifted to the insurance mode, the reward cannot be received. As a result, it is possible to narrow down the return targets to players who have played the game accurately for a long time and have raised discomfort or distrust in the game.
On the other hand, when shifting from the insurance mode to the non-insurance mode, the counted number of games is maintained, so it is maintained when one coin is inserted again and the mode is shifted to the insurance mode. In addition to the number of games played, the number of games is counted. Therefore, it can be prevented that the player's expectation for the return is impaired.
As a result, it is possible to prevent a player who has consumed a large number of coins from causing discomfort and distrust to the game and losing interest and interest in the game. There is no feeling of injustice to the players who are.

In the present embodiment, the game count clear condition is that a game with the number of paid game media being equal to or greater than a specified number is played before the game count reaches the specified count, and the specified count is 1000. The case where is 180 has been described.
In the present invention, the specific number of times is not particularly limited. In addition, the specific number of times may be set randomly by a random value every time the mode is shifted to the insurance mode, for example.
Furthermore, the number of credits that can be paid to shift from the non-insurance mode to the insurance mode can be set by the player or the casino operator, etc. The specific number of times may be set according to the number of credits.

In the present invention, the specified number is not particularly limited. Further, the specified number may be set at random by a random value every time the mode is shifted to the insurance mode, for example.
Furthermore, the number of credits that can be paid to shift from the non-insurance mode to the insurance mode can be set by the player or the casino operator, etc. As described above, the specified number may be set according to the number of credits.

In this embodiment, the insurance cancellation condition is that a game with a predetermined number or more of game media is played before the number of games reaches a specific number, and the predetermined number is 90. . The insurance cancellation condition is not particularly limited, and may include, for example, the occurrence of a mystery bonus or a jackpot bonus. Further, the insurance cancellation condition may be that a game history such as a payout rate of a game medium or a balance reaches a predetermined standard.

In the present embodiment, the case where the number of game media (credits) necessary for shifting from the non-insurance mode to the insurance mode is the predetermined number (1) has been described. However, in the present invention, the number of game media (credits) necessary for shifting from the non-insurance mode to the insurance mode is not particularly limited.
In addition, the number of game media (credits) necessary for shifting from the non-insurance mode to the insurance mode can be set by the player or the casino operator, and the game count clearing condition is set according to the number of credits. And / or the insurance cancellation conditions may be made different. In addition, the number of game media (credits) necessary for shifting from the non-insurance mode to the insurance mode may be changed at a predetermined timing, or may be changed when a predetermined condition is satisfied. .

In the present embodiment, the game to be counted is a game in which the number of paid game media is less than a predetermined number (180) among the games played by BET of the maximum BET number of game media. Explained.
However, in the present invention, the game to be counted is not limited to this example, and for example, all the games actually played may be counted.

In the present embodiment, the case has been described where the number of game media to be paid out when the number of games reaches a specific number is constant, but in the present invention, the game to be paid out when the number of games reaches a specific number The number of media may be determined randomly by a random value, for example. Further, the number of game media to be paid out may be set according to the balance of game media.

The slot machine 10 according to the present embodiment is a stand-alone and counts the number of games. However, in the present invention, the slot machine is not necessarily required as a stand-alone, and a plurality of slot machines can be connected via a network. The connected server may count the number of games of each slot machine.

FIG. 24 is a schematic diagram showing an overall configuration of a gaming system according to one embodiment of the present invention.
The gaming system 100 includes a plurality of slot machines 10 and a server 200 connected to these slot machines 10 via a predetermined communication line 101. Such a gaming system 100 may be constructed within one gaming facility capable of performing various games such as bars and casinos, or may be constructed among a plurality of gaming facilities. Further, when the game system 100 is constructed within one game facility, the game system 100 may be constructed for each floor or section of the game facility. The communication line 101 is not particularly limited, and may be wired or wireless, and a dedicated line, an exchange line, or the like can be employed.

The server 200 controls a plurality of slot machines 10. In particular, in the present embodiment, the server 200 performs processing for counting the number of games in each slot machine 10. The server 200 may have a function as a so-called hall server installed in a gaming facility having a plurality of slot machines 10 or a server that collectively manages a plurality of gaming facilities. Each slot machine 10 is assigned a unique identification number, and the server 200 determines the origin of data sent from each slot machine 10 based on the identification number. Also, when transmitting data from the server 200 to the slot machine 10, the transmission destination is specified using the identification number.

In the above example, the case where the mechanical reel 14 is used has been described. However, in the present invention, symbols may be displayed on a display device such as a liquid crystal display device instead of a mechanical reel.
FIG. 25 is a perspective view schematically showing a slot machine according to another embodiment of the present invention.
The slot machine 300 has substantially the same appearance and circuit configuration as the slot machine 10 except that the symbols are displayed on the lower image display panel, and the flowchart is also substantially the same. The description will be omitted. The components corresponding to those of the slot machine 10 will be described with the same reference numerals.
The lower image display panel 16 provided in the slot machine 300 is provided with three columns and three rows of symbol display areas 250, and one symbol is displayed in each symbol display area. In such a configuration, instead of the reel rotation control by the sub CPU 61, a symbol scroll display may be displayed on the lower image display panel 16.

Further, in the above detailed description, the characteristic portions have been mainly described so that the present invention can be easily understood. The present invention is not limited to the embodiments described in the detailed description above, but can be applied to other embodiments, and the scope of application is various. The terms and terminology used in the present specification are used to accurately describe the present invention, and are not used to limit the interpretation of the present invention. Moreover, it would be easy for those skilled in the art to infer other configurations, systems, methods, and the like included in the concept of the present invention from the concept of the invention described in this specification. Accordingly, the description of the claims should be regarded as including an equivalent configuration without departing from the scope of the technical idea of the present invention. The purpose of the abstract is to simplify the technical contents and essence of this application by patent offices and general public institutions, and engineers belonging to this technical field who are not familiar with patents, legal terms or technical terms. It is intended to be able to make a quick judgment through a simple survey. Accordingly, the abstract is not intended to limit the scope of the invention to be evaluated by the claims. Moreover, in order to fully understand the object of the present invention and the specific effects of the present invention, it is desirable that the interpretation should be made with sufficient consideration of the literatures already disclosed.

The above detailed description includes processing executed by a computer. The above explanations and expressions are given for the purpose of enabling those skilled in the art to understand the most efficiently. In this specification, each step used to derive one result should be understood as a self-consistent process. In each step, transmission / reception, recording, and the like of electrical or magnetic signals are performed. In the processing in each step, such a signal is expressed by bits, values, symbols, characters, terms, numbers, etc., but these are used only for convenience of explanation. There is a need. In addition, the processing in each step may be described in an expression common to human behavior, but the processing described in this specification is executed by various devices in principle. Further, other configurations required for performing each step will be apparent from the above description.

The embodiment of the present invention has been described above, but only specific examples are illustrated, and the present invention is not particularly limited. The specific configuration of each unit and the like can be appropriately changed. The effects described in the embodiments of the present invention are only the most preferable effects resulting from the present invention, and the effects of the present invention are limited to those described in the embodiments of the present invention. is not.

It is a perspective view which shows typically the slot machine which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an internal configuration of the slot machine shown in FIG. 1. It is a figure for demonstrating the payout table in this embodiment. FIG. 2 is a view showing an example of an image displayed on the slot machine shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 2 is a view showing an example of an image displayed on the slot machine shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 2 is a view showing an example of an image displayed on the slot machine shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 2 is a view showing an example of an image displayed on the slot machine shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 2 is a view showing an example of an image displayed on the slot machine shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 2 is a view showing an example of an image displayed on the slot machine shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 2 is a view showing an example of an image displayed on the slot machine shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 2 is a view showing an example of an image displayed on the slot machine shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 2 is a view showing an example of an image displayed on the slot machine shown in FIG. 1. 2 is a flowchart showing a main process executed in the slot machine shown in FIG. 1. It is a flowchart which shows the subroutine of an insurance setting process. It is a flowchart which shows the subroutine of the game execution process A (non-insurance mode). It is a flowchart which shows the subroutine of the game execution process B (insurance mode / before a notice setting value arrival). It is a flowchart which shows the subroutine of the game execution process C (Insurance mode / after a notice setting value is reached). It is a flow chart which shows a subroutine of game execution processing D (insurance mode / at the time of reaching a specific number of times). FIG. 3 is a chart showing a procedure of activation processing by the mother board and the gaming board shown in FIG. 2. FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the subroutine of a stop symbol determination process. It is a flowchart which shows the subroutine of a reel rotation control process. (A)-(d) is a side view for demonstrating rotation operation | movement of a reel. Step number and code No. It is the schematic diagram which showed the corresponding | compatible table | surface. 1 is a schematic diagram showing an overall configuration of a gaming system according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 22 is a perspective view schematically showing a slot machine according to another embodiment of the present invention.

Explanation of symbols

10 Slot machine 11 Cabinet 12 Top box 13 Main door 14 (14L, 14C, 14R) Reel 15 (15L, 15C, 15R) Display window 16 Lower image display panel 18 Coin tray 19 Coin payout opening 20 Control panel 21 Coin entry 22 Bill identifier 23 Spin button 24 Change button 25 Cash out button 26 1-BET button 27 Maximum BET button 29 Speaker 30 Lamp 31 Credit number display part 32 Payout number display part 33 Upper image display panel 34 Berry glass 35 Ticket printer 36 Card Entrance 37 Data display 38 Keypad 39 Bar code ticket 40 Motherboard 41 Main CPU
42 ROM
43 RAM
44 Communication Interface 45 Power Supply Unit 50 Gaming Board 51 CPU
52 Boot ROM
53 Memory Card 54 GAL
60 Main body PCB
61 Sub CPU
62 Motor drive circuit 63 FPGA
64 Driver 65 Index detection circuit 66 Hopper 67 Coin detection unit 68 Graphic board 69 Touch panel 70 (70L, 70C, 70R) Stepping motor 71 Position change detection circuit 80 Door PCB
81 Cold Cathode Tube 100 Game System 200 Server

Claims (6)

A symbol display device capable of variable display of a plurality of symbols;
A slot machine comprising: a controller programmed to execute the following processes (A) to (E):
(A) After a gaming medium having a predetermined maximum number of BETs or less is betted, the symbol display device performs variable display of the plurality of symbols, and then performs stop display, and the plurality of symbols that have been stopped and displayed are displayed. A process of executing a game for paying a number of game media according to the combination;
(B) Processing for shifting from the non-insurance mode to the insured mode on condition that a predetermined number of game media have been inserted;
(C) In the insurance mode, a process of counting the number of games that have been performed since the insurance mode was entered;
(D) a process of paying a predetermined number of game media when the number of games counted in the process (C) reaches a specific number of times; and
(E) A process of shifting from the insurance mode to the non-insurance mode while maintaining the number of games counted in the process (C) when a predetermined insurance cancellation condition is satisfied. The slot machine according to claim 1, wherein the controller is further programmed to execute the following process (F).
(F) Counted by the process (C) when the number of game media payments is greater than or equal to a predetermined number before the number of games counted by the process (C) reaches the specific number of times. Processing to clear the number of games. The insurance cancellation condition is that a game in which the number of game media payments is equal to or greater than a prescribed number is played,
The slot machine according to claim 2, wherein the prescribed number is smaller than the predetermined number. In the process (E), the controller changes from the non-insurance mode to the non-insurance mode after the transition from the insurance mode to the non-insurance mode while maintaining the counted number of games. In the process (C), in addition to the number of games maintained in the process (E), in the process (C), the number of games played after the transition to the insurance mode is counted. The slot machine according to claim 1. The process (C)
5. The process according to claim 1, wherein in the insurance mode, the process is a process of counting the number of games played by betting on the gaming medium having the maximum BET number after shifting to the insurance mode. 2. The slot machine according to 1. (A) After a game medium having a predetermined maximum BET number or less is betted, a symbol display device capable of displaying a plurality of symbols in a variable manner displays a plurality of symbols in a variable manner, and then displays a stop and stops. Executing a game for paying a number of game media according to a combination of the displayed symbols;
(B) transitioning from the non-insurance mode to the insured mode on condition that a predetermined number of game media have been inserted;
(C) In the insurance mode, counting the number of games played since transitioning to the insurance mode;
(D) paying a predetermined number of game media when the number of games counted in step (C) reaches a specific number;
(E) When a predetermined insurance cancellation condition is satisfied, the game includes a step of shifting from the insurance mode to the non-insurance mode while maintaining the number of games counted in the process (C). Control method.

Images