JP2004081432A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine allowing a player to continue a game without feeling tedium. <P>SOLUTION: In the game machine, a light source is disposed in the back part of a reel, and a display surface for visual recognition of the reel allows the player to visually recognize an identification information image when the light source radiates light, and disables the player from visually recognizing the identification information image when the light source does not radiate light. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2004,JPO

Description

[0001]
TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a gaming machine.
[0002]
[Prior art]
Conventionally, slot gaming machines are configured such that a reel provided inside the gaming machine is driven to rotate, and the game situation changes according to the content when the identification information image drawn on the reel is stopped and displayed. I have.
[0003]
For example, a slot gaming machine has three built-in reels that can be visually recognized by a player from the front of the gaming machine. As described above, the identification information images are drawn on these reels, and the player plays the game while expecting that the combination of the identification information images becomes a combination that is advantageous to the player. .
[0004]
On the other hand, some recent slot machines have, in addition to the above-mentioned three reels, reels which are rotated in a horizontal direction above the slot machine, for example. In such a slot gaming machine, a future gaming state in the slot gaming machine is predicted by the type of the identification information symbol when the reel is stopped and displayed.
[0005]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
As described above, in the conventional slot machine, various effects using reels are devised, so that a player can play a game without being bored.
[0006]
However, among the various effects using these reels, there are those with a particularly low rotation speed, and in such a slot machine, the movement of the identification information image drawn on the reel is easily visually recognized by the player. There are some which can easily know the current or future game state.
[0007]
In this way, if the player can easily grasp the game state, the player can grasp the next game state where the reel is likely to be stopped and displayed. You may even feel bored and stop playing the game.
[0008]
An object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine that allows a player to continue playing without feeling bored.
[0009]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
According to the present invention, a light source is provided in the inner part of the reel, and a display surface for visually recognizing the reel allows a player to visually recognize the identification information image when the light source irradiates light. It is intended to provide a gaming machine configured so that the player cannot visually recognize the identification information image when the player does not.
[0010]
More specifically, the present invention provides the following.
[0011]
(1) a pattern row on which a plurality of types of identification information images necessary for the game are drawn, and a display surface for allowing the player to visually recognize the identification information image drawn on the pattern row; A game machine in which a game that can transition to a state advantageous to the player in accordance with the identification information image when the identification information image is stopped and displayed is performed, and at the back of the symbol row, A light source for irradiating light is provided, and the display surface is configured such that the player can visually recognize the identification information image when the light source irradiates light, and the display surface when the light source does not irradiate light. A gaming machine, wherein the identification information image is not visible to a player.
[0012]
According to the present invention, "a symbol row in which a plurality of types of identification information images required for a game are drawn, and a display surface for making the identification information image drawn in the symbol row visible to a player, The gaming machine in which a game that can shift to a state advantageous to the player in accordance with the identification information image when the identification information image is stopped and displayed is performed. A light source for irradiating light to the surface is provided, and the display surface is such that the player can visually recognize the identification information image when the light source irradiates light, and the light source irradiates light. Otherwise, the identification information image is formed so as to be invisible to the player ".
[0013]
With this configuration, in the gaming machine of the present invention, the content of the identification information image that is stopped and displayed until the light source is irradiated cannot be understood. You can't tell if you're in a favorable state or not. This gives the player a great sense of expectation and excitement.
[0014]
(2) The gaming machine according to (1), wherein the display surface is subjected to smoke processing.
[0015]
According to the present invention, it is possible to configure the display surface as “smoke-processed”. Thus, the effect described in (1) can be realized more easily.
[0016]
BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
[0017]
[Constitution]
FIG. 1 shows a schematic view of the slot machine 10. As shown in FIG.
[0018]
On the front surface of the housing 12 forming the whole of the slot machine 10, three vertically long rectangular display windows 14L, 14C, 14R formed substantially vertically are provided. These display windows 14L, 14C, 14R have five winning lines, ie, three horizontally (center L1, upper and lower L2A, L2B) and two obliquely (obliquely lower right L3A, obliquely upward L3B). Winning lines are provided. At the left end and right end of these pay lines L1, L2A, L2B, L3A, and L3B, a pay line (hereinafter referred to as an effective line) that is valid according to the number of inserted medals, and a bet number of medals. Are displayed in order from the top as "3", "2", "1", "2", "3".
[0019]
When the 1-BET switch 20 is operated by the player, one of the five pay lines, for example, the pay line L1, is activated, and when the 2-BET switch 22 is operated, one of the five pay lines is operated. When three pay lines L1, L2A and L2B are activated and the maximum BET switch 24 is operated, all five pay lines, namely L1, L2A, L2B, L3A and L3B, are activated. The activated pay line is clearly indicated by turning on an activated line display lamp 44 (see FIG. 7) provided on the back of the bet amount display section 18.
[0020]
Inside the housing 12, three reels 26L, 26C, 26R each having a plurality of types of design images drawn on the outer peripheral surface thereof are rotatably provided. Each of these reels 26L, 26C, 26R is provided so as to be visible through the above-described display windows 14L, 14C, 14R. As will be described later, the reels 26L, 26C, and 26R move from the top to the bottom in the display windows 14L, 14C, and 14R, with the image of the symbol (see FIG. 2) drawn on the outer peripheral surface of the reels 26L, 26C, and 26R. It is driven to rotate.
[0021]
A substantially horizontal pedestal portion 28 is provided below the above-described display windows 14L, 14C, and 14R, and a display device 30 including a liquid crystal display panel is provided at the center thereof. The display device 30 displays the number of medals obtained by the player himself.
[0022]
On the right side of the display device 30, a medal insertion slot 31 into which a large number of medals can be inserted at one time is provided.
[0023]
Also, on the left side of the display device 30, a 1-BET switch 20 for targeting only one of the already inserted medals to a game bet by one push operation, A 2-BET switch 22 for targeting only two of the medals to bet for the game, and a maximum number of medals that can be used for one game among the medals already inserted are set for the game bet. A maximum BET switch 24 for targeting is provided. By pushing these BET switches 20, 22, or 24, the above-mentioned winning line is activated according to the pushed BET switch. By pushing the 1-BET switch 20, the 2-BET switch 22, or the maximum BET switch 24 by the player, the game can be started.
[0024]
On the left side of the front surface of the pedestal portion 28, a start lever 32 is provided to be tiltable. When the player tilts the start lever 32, the rotation of the three reels 26L, 26C, 26R described above is started simultaneously. When the three reels 26L, 26C, 26R rotate, the image of the symbol drawn on the outer peripheral surface of each of the reels 26L, 26C, 26R is variably displayed in each of the display windows 14L, 14C, 14R. Become.
[0025]
When the rotation speeds of the three reels 26L, 26C, 26R reach a certain speed, the player's operation of the stop buttons 34L, 34C, 34R, which will be described later, becomes effective.
[0026]
Three stop buttons 34L, 34C, 34R are provided at the center of the front surface of the pedestal portion 28. The stop button 34L corresponds to the reel 26L, the stop button 34C corresponds to the reel 26C, and the stop button 34R corresponds to the reel 26R. When the player pushes the stop button 34L, the reel 26L stops, and when the player pushes the stop button 34C, the reel 26C stops, and when the player pushes the stop button 34R, , The reel 26R is stopped.
[0027]
When the reel 26L, the reel 26C, and the reel 26R stop, the image of the symbol (see FIG. 2) drawn on the outer peripheral surface of each of the reel 26L, the reel 26C, and the reel 26R is displayed on the above-described winning lines L1, L2A, L2B, It is controlled so that it is positioned at L3A and L3B and stopped and displayed.
[0028]
On the left side of the start lever 32, a payout button 36a is provided. When the player pushes the payout button 36a, the inserted medals are paid out from the medal payout opening 38 at the lower front, and the paid out medals are stored in the medal receiving unit 40.
[0029]
Above the medal receiving portion 40, a sound transmission port is provided for outputting a sound emitted from a speaker 42 (see FIG. 7) housed inside the housing 12 to the outside of the housing 12.
[0030]
On each of the above-described reels 26L, 26C, and 26R, a predetermined number of, for example, 21 images of a plurality of types of symbols are drawn on the outer peripheral surface. Each of these symbols is assigned a code number from “0” to “20”, and the relationship between the symbol image and the code number is stored in a ROM 108 described later as a data table.
[0031]
This data table is used for associating the rotation angle position of each of the reels 26L, 26C, 26R with the image of the symbol, as will be described later. For example, when the reels 26L, 26C, 26R are stopped, the winning lines on the display windows 14L, 14C, 14R are referred to by referring to the data table based on the information on the rotational angles of the reels 26L, 26C, 26R. It is possible to specify the image of the symbol stopped and displayed on L1, L2A, L2B, L3A and L3B.
[0032]
The above-described ROM 108 also stores a winning symbol combination table indicating a relationship between a symbol combination to be won as a win and the number of medals to be paid out when the symbol combination is won. The combination of symbols and the number of payout medals to be paid out will be described later with reference to FIG.
[0033]
Hereinafter, the gaming state in the slot game will be described. There are three types of game states in the slot game: a game in a normal game state, a game in a regular bonus state (hereinafter, referred to as an RB game), and a game in a big bonus state (hereinafter, referred to as a BB game). The BB game is a game in the "state advantageous to the player", and shifts from a game in the normal game state to a game in the "state advantageous to the player" as described later.
[0034]
In the game in the normal game state, when the combination of the symbols stopped and displayed on the activated line becomes a predetermined combination, for example, "Sanshaku ball"-"Sanshaku ball"-"Sanshaku ball" or " When a combination such as "large"-"large"-"large" is established, it is determined that a small hit has been won, and a predetermined number of medals (see FIG. 3) are paid out to the player, and one game is ended. .
[0035]
Also, when a combination of different symbols is made on the activated line, for example, when a combination of "large fireworks"-"large fireworks"-"large fireworks" is made, the player once again plays the game without inserting medals. It is a so-called replay or replay that can be performed.
[0036]
Further, if the combination does not correspond to any combination of the winning symbol combination table on the activated line, the result is "missing".
[0037]
Furthermore, when a combination of symbols of the same color such as "7"-"7"-"7" is stopped and displayed on the activated line, the process proceeds to a BB game described later.
[0038]
When a combination of symbols such as "HANABI"-"HANABI"-"HANABI" is stopped and displayed on the activated line, the process proceeds to an RB game described later.
[0039]
As described above, the above-mentioned RB game is a game executed when a combination of symbols such as “HANABI”-“HANABI”-“HANABI” is arranged on an active line during a game in the normal gaming state. In the RB game, a game with one medal, called a JAC game, can be performed a plurality of times. In this JAC game, when a combination such as "large fireworks"-"large fireworks"-"large fireworks" is arranged on the activated line L1, a predetermined number of medals, for example, 15 medals are paid out as a winning in the JAC game. Although "out of place" occurs in the JAC game, the JAC game occurs with a high probability of about 9/10. The RB game ends when, for example, a JAC game prize is generated eight times or the total number of JAC games executed during the RB game reaches, for example, twelve, and the game returns to the normal game state.
[0040]
On the other hand, in the above-described BB game, a combination of an RB game and a game called a general game may be performed a plurality of times. When shifting to the BB game, first, a general game is executed. In the general game during the BB game, “missing” also occurs, but for example, “Sansakutama” − “Sansakutama” − “Sansakutama” or “Large” − “Large” − “Large” And the like, occur with a higher probability than in the above-described game in the normal game state. Further, in the normal game during the BB game, a small hit due to a combination of symbols that does not occur in the game in the normal game state may be generated.
[0041]
In the general game during the BB game, when a combination of "large fireworks"-"large fireworks"-"large fireworks" is arranged, a predetermined number of medals (see Fig. 3) are paid out, and then a plurality of bonus games are performed. Shifts to an RB game in which the game can be performed. In the BB game, for example, when the bonus game winning is generated eight times, or when the total number of bonus games executed during the RB game reaches, for example, 12, the first set of the BB game ends.
[0042]
When the first RB game ends, the general game in the BB game described above is performed again. If a combination of “large fireworks”, “large fireworks”, and “large fireworks” occurs during the general games, The RB game described above is performed.
[0043]
The BB game is a repetitive game in which the normal game and the RB game are one set. When the set of games is performed a predetermined number of times, for example, three times, the BB game ends and the game returns to the normal game state. However, even if the total number of games in the normal game state exceeds a predetermined number of times, for example, 30 during the BB game, the BB game is ended and the game returns to the normal game state.
[0044]
Above the slot machine 10, a band reel display window 71 is provided. Inside the band reel display window 71, a band reel 131 (see FIG. 4) described later is provided. The player can check the current game state by checking the symbol drawn on the band reel 131 displayed from the band reel display window 71.
[0045]
FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the internal structure of the slot machine 10 viewed from above when the band reel display window 71 is cut horizontally.
[0046]
Inside the band reel display window 71, a band reel 131 having a circular cross section and an effect lamp 132 are provided. The belt reel 131 is provided with a shaft at its center, and is configured to be driven to rotate about this shaft. A plurality of symbols are drawn on the outer peripheral surface of the band reel 131, and these symbols are projected on the band reel display window 71 by irradiating light from the inside of the band reel 131 by the effect lamp 132. .
[0047]
5 and 6 show examples of symbols drawn on the band reel 131. FIG. 5 and 6 show a part of a plurality of symbols drawn on the band reel 131.
[0048]
FIG. 5 shows a star-shaped design drawn on the band reel 131. The star-shaped design is stopped so as to be located immediately adjacent to the band reel display window 71, and the effect lamp 132 is illuminated so that the image is projected on the band reel display window 71. FIG. 6 shows a pattern of the character drawn on the band reel 131. This character design is also projected on the band reel display window 71 and visually recognized by the player, similarly to the star-shaped design in FIG.
[0049]
It should be noted that these star-shaped symbols and character symbols are configured to be displayed so as to imply the current game state. Specifically, when a star-shaped symbol is displayed, it is a chance to be able to arrange the BB game, or when a character symbol is displayed, there is a possibility that some small role can be arranged. Is higher.
[0050]
Here, the band reel display window 71 is formed by applying a smoke process to its surface. By performing the smoke processing, in the slot machine 10 of the present embodiment, the symbol drawn on the band reel 131 cannot be visually recognized by the player unless the light of the effect lamp 132 is irradiated. In the slot machine 10 of the present embodiment, the effect lamp 132 is illuminated after the belt reel 131 has finished rotating.
[0051]
This makes it impossible for the player to recognize his / her current gaming state until the rotation of the band reel 131 ends and the effect lamp 132 is illuminated. As a result, it is possible to play a game while having more sense of expectation and excitement.
[0052]
Next, FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a main control circuit including a control circuit for controlling the slot machine 10 and peripheral devices electrically connected thereto.
[0053]
The above-described start lever 32 is connected to an interface circuit group 102 of the main control circuit 100, and the interface circuit group 102 is connected to an input / output bus 104. The start start signal issued from the start lever 32 is converted into a desired signal in the interface circuit group 102 and then supplied to the input / output bus 104. The input / output bus 104 inputs and outputs a data signal or an address signal to a central processing circuit (hereinafter, referred to as a main CPU) 106.
[0054]
Further, to the above-described interface circuit group 102, the stop buttons 34L, 34C, 34R, the 1-BET switch 20, the 2-BET switch 22, the maximum BET switch 24, and the payout buttons 36a and 36b are also connected. The signals emitted from these buttons and switches are also supplied to the interface circuit group 102, converted into desired signals, and then supplied to the input / output bus 104.
[0055]
Further, to the interface circuit group 102, a medal counter 52 and a medal passage sensor 54 are also connected. The signals emitted from these counters and sensors are also supplied to the interface circuit group 102 and converted into desired signals, and then supplied to the input / output bus 104.
[0056]
A ROM (read only memory) 108 and a RAM (random access memory) 110 are also connected to the input / output bus 104 described above. The ROM 108 stores a control program for controlling the overall flow of the slot machine. Further, the ROM 108 stores initial data for executing the control program. Furthermore, the above-mentioned data table, winning symbol combination table, and winning mode table described later are also stored.
[0057]
Further, the RAM 110 temporarily stores flags and variable values used in the above-described control program.
[0058]
The input / output bus 104 is also provided with a random number generator 112 for generating a random number. The random number generator 112 generates a random number included in a numerical value within a certain range, for example, 0 to 16383 (2 to the 15th power). Note that the random number may be configured to be generated by the arithmetic processing of the main CPU 106.
[0059]
The motor drive circuit 114 is connected to the input / output bus 104. The motor driving circuit 114 is connected to stepping motors 62L, 62C, 62R for driving each of the three reels 26L, 26C, 26R. Each of the stepping motors 62L, 62C, and 62R is provided inside three reels 26L, 26C, and 26R, and the rotation shafts of the stepping motors 62L, 62C, and 62R become the rotation centers of the reels 26L, 26C, and 26R. The reels 26L, 26C, 26R are provided on the stepping motors 62L, 62C, 62R.
[0060]
The drive control command issued from the main CPU 106 is converted into a drive signal by the motor drive circuit 114, and the drive signal is supplied to the stepping motors 62L, 62C, 62R. Note that the drive control command includes a command for the rotation speed, and controls the rotation and stop of the stepping motors 62L, 62C, 62R, and also controls the rotation speed.
[0061]
By controlling the stepping motors 62L, 62C, 62R as described above, the main CPU 106 can control the rotation and stop of the reels 26L, 26C, 26R and also control the rotation speed.
[0062]
Each of the reels 26L, 26C, 26R is provided with a rotation angle position sensor (not shown) for detecting the rotation angle position of each reel, and the rotation angle position sensor is a reel rotation angle position detection circuit 116. It is connected to the. When a signal indicating the rotation angle position of each of the reels 26L, 26C, 26R is issued from the rotation angle position sensor, it is supplied to the reel rotation angle position detection circuit 116, converted into a predetermined signal, and then converted to a predetermined signal. Supplied to
[0063]
The main CPU 106 calculates the code number of the symbol from the supplied rotation angle position, and specifies the symbol image displayed on each of the display windows 14L, 14C, and 14R by referring to the data table described above. You can do it.
[0064]
The input / output bus 104 is also connected to a lamp drive circuit 118 for driving the activated line display lamp 44, and the main CPU 106 is issued from the 1-BET switch 20, the 2-BET switch 22, or the maximum BET switch 24. A drive command is issued to the lamp drive circuit 118 in response to the signal, and the activated line display lamp 44 is driven to light up in accordance with the drive command.
[0065]
Furthermore, a sub-control circuit 130 is also connected to the input / output bus 104. The sub-control circuit 130 is a circuit for controlling the display device 30, the speaker 42, the band reel 131, and the effect lamp 132, as shown in FIG. FIG. 8 shows a block diagram of the sub control circuit 130.
[0066]
As shown in FIG. 8, the sub control circuit 130 includes a sub CPU 1310, a sub RAM 1320, a sub ROM 1330, an image control circuit 120 for driving the display device 30, a sound source IC 1340, a power amplifier 1350, and a motor for controlling the band reel 131. A drive circuit 1360 and a lamp drive circuit 1370 for controlling the effect lamp 132 are mounted.
[0067]
The sub CPU 1310 reads out image data, character data, and the like stored in the image ROM 1210, controls the image control IC 1220, and a predetermined display image is displayed on the display device 30. Also, sub CPU 1310 reads out audio data stored in sound ROM 1380 and supplies the data to power amplifier 1350 via sound source IC 1340. By doing so, a predetermined sound is emitted from the speaker 42.
[0068]
The sub-control circuit 130 controls the band reel 131 in response to a start command signal from the main control circuit 100. In the sub-control circuit 130, the rotation and the stop of the band reel 131 are controlled by the motor drive circuit 1360 which receives the control signal of the sub-CPU 1310, and the rotation speed is also controlled. The effect lamp 132 is turned on and off by a lamp driving circuit 1370 which receives a control signal from the sub CPU 1310.
[0069]
[Action]
Next, control operations of the main control circuit 100 and the main CPU 106 will be described with reference to main flowcharts shown in FIGS.
[0070]
First, the main CPU 106 performs an initialization process before starting the game (step S11).
[0071]
Specifically, the main CPU 106 performs a process of deleting data such as communication data. When the process of performing the initialization ends, the main CPU 106 executes the process of step S12.
[0072]
Next, the main CPU 106 executes a process of clearing the RAM at the end of the game (step S12).
[0073]
Specifically, the main CPU 106 clears the status and communication data of the previous game stored in the RAM 110, writes game parameters necessary for the game, sets the start address of the sequence program, and the like. When the process of clearing the RAM at the end of the game ends, the main CPU 106 executes the process of step S13.
[0074]
Next, the main CPU 106 determines whether there is a request for automatic insertion of medals (step S13).
[0075]
To determine whether or not there is automatic insertion of medals, that is, to determine whether or not a replay has been won in the previous game. The main CPU 106 makes this determination with reference to the game data recorded in the RAM 110. In this process, when it is determined that the automatic insertion has been performed, the main CPU 106 shifts the process to step S14. On the other hand, when it is determined that the automatic insertion has not been performed, the main CPU 106 shifts the processing to step S15.
[0076]
Next, the main CPU 106 executes processing for automatically inserting game medals for the insertion request (step S14).
[0077]
In this process, the main CPU 106 performs a process so that the slot gaming machine 10 can start a game. That is, a process of changing to a state in which medals necessary for the next game are inserted is performed. When the processing for automatically inserting the medals for the insertion request is completed, the main CPU 106 shifts the processing to step S16.
[0078]
Next, in step S15, the main CPU 106 executes a process of inserting a game medal.
[0079]
In this process, the main CPU 106 determines whether a new medal has been inserted, that is, whether there has been a signal input from the medal passing sensor 54 when the player has inserted a medal into the medal insertion slot 31. It is determined whether or not there is an input due to the operation of the BET switches 20, 22, and 24. When the processing for inserting the game medals is completed, the main CPU 106 shifts the processing to step S16.
[0080]
Next, the main CPU 106 executes a process of determining whether or not the start switch is on (step S16).
[0081]
In this process, the main CPU 106 determines whether or not there is an input by operating the start lever 32. In this process, if the main CPU 106 determines that the start switch is ON, the process proceeds to step S17. On the other hand, when the main CPU 106 determines that the start switch is not on, the process of step S16 is performed again.
[0082]
Next, the main CPU 106 performs a process of determining whether 4.1 seconds have elapsed from the previous game (step S17).
[0083]
In this processing, a timer (not shown) built in the main CPU 106 determines whether or not the result of the time measured from the end of the previous game is 4.1 seconds or more. If it is determined that the time is equal to or longer than 4.1 seconds, the main CPU 106 shifts the processing to step S19. On the other hand, when it is determined that the time is not longer than 4.1 seconds, the main CPU 106 shifts the processing to step S18.
[0084]
Next, the main CPU 106 performs a process of exhausting the game start waiting time (step S18).
[0085]
This process is a process for exhausting the remaining waiting time when 4.1 seconds have not elapsed since the end of the previous game. When the waiting time has been completed, the main CPU 106 shifts the processing to step S19.
[0086]
Next, the main CPU 106 executes a process of setting a timer for monitoring one game (step S19).
[0087]
In this process, the main CPU 106 sets a timer built in the main CPU 106 and starts counting time in order to monitor one game. When the processing for setting the one game monitoring timer is completed, the main CPU 106 shifts the processing to step S31 (see FIG. 10).
[0088]
Next, the main CPU 106 executes a probability lottery process (step S31).
[0089]
In this process, first, a random number value for lottery is extracted using the random number generator 112, and it is determined which internal winning combination the extracted random number value corresponds to, and that is determined. Further, a stop table to be used is determined according to the internal winning combination determined in this process. These processes are performed based on an instruction from the main CPU 106. When the probability lottery process ends, the main CPU 106 moves the process to step S32.
[0090]
Next, the main CPU 106 executes a process of rotating the reel (step S32).
[0091]
In this process, the main CPU 106 controls the motor drive circuit 114 to perform control to rotate the reels 26L, 26C, 26R. In this control, an acceleration process is performed from a state where the reels 26L, 26C, 26R are stopped, and after reaching a certain speed, a constant speed rotation process is performed. Under the condition of the constant speed rotation, the stop buttons 34L, 34C, 34R are activated, and the reels 26L, 26C, 26R can be stopped. When the processing of rotating the reels ends, the main CPU 106 shifts the processing to step S33.
[0092]
Next, the main CPU 106 executes a process of transmitting a start command (step S33).
[0093]
In this process, the main CPU 106 performs a process of transmitting game information of the main control circuit 100 at the start of the game to the sub control circuit 130. As the transmitted command, the winning flag determined in the probability lottery process, the current game state, the stop table number determined according to the winning flag, and the like are transmitted.
[0094]
Next, the main CPU 106 executes a process of determining whether or not the stop button is on (step S34).
[0095]
In this processing, the main CPU 106 determines whether or not any of the stop buttons 34L, 34C, 34R has been operated, that is, the stop signal transmitted when the player has operated the stop buttons 34L, 34C, 34R. Determine the presence or absence. When it is determined in this process that the stop button is on, the main CPU 106 shifts the processing to step S36. On the other hand, if it is determined in this processing that the stop button is not on, the main CPU 106 shifts the processing to step S35.
[0096]
Next, the main CPU 106 executes a process of determining whether or not the value of the automatic stop timer is 0 (step S35).
[0097]
Here, “automatic stop” means that when a certain period (for example, 40 seconds) has elapsed after the rotation of the reels has started, even if the stop buttons 34L, 34C, 34R are not operated, the reels 26L, 26C, This is a process for automatically performing stop control even when 26R is rotating. In this processing, when it is determined that the value of the automatic stop timer is not 0, the main CPU 106 returns the processing to S34 again. On the other hand, if it is determined in this processing that the value of the automatic stop timer is 0, the main CPU 106 shifts the processing to step S36.
[0098]
Next, the main CPU 106 executes a process of determining the number of sliding frames (step S36).
[0099]
In this process, the number of sliding frames on the reel corresponding to the stop button operated to stop is determined. Here, the "number of sliding frames" refers to the number of symbols displayed on the display windows 14L, 14C, 14R when the stop buttons 34L, 34C, 34R are operated (this is referred to as a "stop operation position"). This means that the reel is stopped by sliding by the symbol (the position where the reel is actually stopped is referred to as “stop position”), or the number of symbols (the number of frames) that the symbol slides. The number of sliding frames is determined based on the result of the lottery performed in the previous probability lottery process (step S31). When the process of determining the number of sliding frames ends, the main CPU 106 shifts the process to step S37.
[0100]
Next, the main CPU 106 performs a process of rotating and stopping the reel by the number of sliding frames (step S37).
[0101]
In this process, the main CPU 106 controls the motor drive circuit 114 so that the motor drive circuit 114 stops after rotating by the number of sliding frames determined in the previous step S36. When the process of stopping the reels ends, the main CPU 106 transmits a reel stop command to the sub-control circuit 130, and then shifts the processing to step S38.
[0102]
Next, the main CPU 106 executes a process of determining whether or not all reels have stopped (step S38).
[0103]
In this process, if it is determined that all the reels have not stopped, the main CPU 106 returns the process to step S34. On the other hand, in this processing, when it is determined that all the reels have stopped, the main CPU 106 shifts the processing to step S39 and performs processing of transmitting a reel stop command to the sub control circuit 130. When the process of transmitting the reel stop command to the sub control circuit 130 ends, the main CPU 106 shifts the process to step S41 (see FIG. 11).
[0104]
Next, the main CPU 106 executes a winning search process (step S41).
[0105]
In this winning search processing, it is determined whether or not the stop mode of the symbols displayed in the display windows 14L, 14C, and 14R indicates that a winning has been established. A process of storing the winning flag of the winning combination in the RAM 110 is performed. More specifically, the code number of the symbol on the center line L1 is compared with a winning symbol combination table stored in the ROM 108 to make the determination. When the winning search processing is completed, the main CPU 106 shifts the processing to step S42.
[0106]
Next, the main CPU 106 executes a process of determining whether or not the winning flag is normal (step S42).
[0107]
In this process, the main CPU 106 checks whether the winning flag matches the winning flag, and determines whether or not the current winning is normal. In this processing, when it is determined that the winning is normal, the main CPU 106 shifts the processing to step S43. On the other hand, if it is determined in this processing that the winning is not normal, the main CPU 106 shifts the processing to step S43.
[0108]
Next, the main CPU 106 executes a process of displaying an illegal error (step S43).
[0109]
The display of the illegal error is displayed when it is determined in step S42 that the winning flag is not normal, and is a process performed based on an instruction from the main CPU 106. If an illegal error is displayed, the game cannot be started unless the gaming state of the slot gaming machine 10 is returned to normal.
[0110]
If the winning flag is normal, next, a medal storage or payout process is performed according to the type of the winning combination that has been established and the gaming state (step S44). When the processing for paying out medals is completed, the main CPU 106 shifts the processing to step S45.
[0111]
Next, the main CPU 106 executes a process of updating the gaming state (step S45).
[0112]
Here, the process of updating the game state is a process performed to shift to the new game state when the game state is changed by ending the current game. Such processing is necessary, for example, when the final winning of the bonus game, when the bonus is internally won in the current game, or when the symbol "7-7-7" is stopped on the activated line. In some cases, a bonus game has started. When the processing for updating the gaming state ends, the main CPU 106 shifts the processing to step S46.
[0113]
Next, the main CPU 106 performs a process of transmitting a command indicating that one game has ended to the sub-control circuit 130 (step S46).
[0114]
In this process, the main CPU 106 performs a process of transmitting the type of the established winning combination, the gaming state, and the like to the sub-control circuit 130 as a “1 game end command”. When the above processing is completed, the main CPU 106 shifts the processing to step S12 again.
[0115]
Next, various command receiving processes performed on the sub-control circuit 130 side will be described with reference to FIGS.
[0116]
The process in the sub-control circuit 130 is roughly described. The sub-CPU 1310 mounted on the sub-control circuit 130 checks the reception flag in the sub-RAM 1320 and confirms the command transmitted from the main control circuit 100. Here, the game information related to the main control circuit 100 stored in the reception flag includes, as described above, the start command generated by the operation of the start lever 32 and the rotating reels 26L, 26C, 26R. A reel stop command generated when the stop buttons 34L, 34C, 34R are operated to stop, and a one-game end command generated after a medal is paid out when all reels are stopped and a prize is won. Various effects processing is executed by each command.
[0117]
First, the start command receiving process will be described with reference to FIG. First, the sub CPU 1310 performs a process of determining whether a start command has been received (step S51).
[0118]
In this process, the sub CPU 1310 checks the reception flag in the sub RAM 1320 and determines whether a start command has been received. If it is determined in this step that the start command has not been received, sub CPU 1310 immediately ends this subroutine. On the other hand, when it is determined in this step that the start command has been received, sub CPU 1310 shifts the processing to step S52.
[0119]
Next, the sub CPU 1310 executes the effect control process at the start (step S52).
[0120]
The effect control process at the time of start is, specifically, an effect control process corresponding to a case where it is determined to enter a bonus game. As an effect method, the band reel 131 is driven to rotate, the effect lamp 132 built in the slot gaming machine 10 is turned on, and the image drawn on the band reel 131 is projected on the band reel display window 71. As described above, since the band reel display window 71 has been subjected to the smoke processing, the player knows the current game situation until the rotation of the band reel 131 stops and the image is projected on the band reel display window 71. I can't. When the process of step S54 ends, sub CPU 1310 immediately ends this subroutine.
[0121]
By performing the processing in this step, the player plays the game while expecting that the current game situation is advantageous to him / her, thereby increasing the sense of expectation. As a result, the slot machine of the present invention can bring a sense of expectation and excitement to the player.
[0122]
Next, a reel stop command receiving process will be described with reference to FIG. First, the sub CPU 1310 performs a process of determining whether a reel stop command has been received (step S53).
[0123]
If it is determined in this step that the reel stop command has not been received, the sub CPU 1310 immediately ends this subroutine. On the other hand, if it is determined that the reel stop command has been received, the sub CPU 1310 moves the process to step S54.
[0124]
Next, the sub CPU 1310 executes an effect control process when the reel is stopped (step S54).
[0125]
This process is for informing the stop order during the bonus game and for producing an effect in accordance with the consistency between the content of the notification and the actual stop operation. This effect is performed via the display device 30 and the speaker 42. When the process of step S54 ends, sub CPU 1310 immediately ends this subroutine.
[0126]
Next, the one game end command receiving process will be described with reference to FIG. First, the sub CPU 1310 executes a process of determining whether or not a one game end command has been received (step S55).
[0127]
If it is determined in this step that the one game end command has not been received, the sub CPU 1310 shifts the processing to step S51 again. On the other hand, when it is determined that the one game end command has been received, the sub CPU 1310 moves the process to step S56.
[0128]
Next, the sub CPU 1310 executes an effect control process at the end of one game (step S56).
[0129]
This process updates the number of remaining games and the number of medals acquired, for example, during a bonus game. When the above processing ends, sub CPU 1310 immediately ends the present subroutine.
[0130]
According to the slot gaming machine 10 of the present embodiment described above, since the band reel display window 71 is subjected to the smoke processing, the identification information image drawn on the band reel 131 is in a state where the player can always visually recognize it. Disappears. As a result, the image drawn on the band reel 131 implying the current game situation is not displayed until the band reel 131 is stopped, so that the player may shift to a game state that is advantageous to him. The game can be continued while enjoying a sense of expectation and a sense of excitement.
[0131]
In the above embodiment, the present invention is described as being applied to a so-called fourth reel (the band reel 131 in the present embodiment). However, the present invention is not limited to this, and is provided on the front surface of the gaming machine. A plurality of reels (reel 26L, 26C, 26R in the present embodiment) may be used.
[0132]
Although the above-described embodiments and effects enumerate those suitable for the present invention, the effects of implementing the present invention are not limited to those described above.
[0133]
【The invention's effect】
According to the present invention, `` a symbol row on which a plurality of types of identification information images required for a game are drawn, and a display surface for allowing the player to visually recognize the identification information image drawn on the symbol row, In the gaming machine in which a game that can transition to a state advantageous to the player in accordance with the identification information image when the identification information image is stopped and displayed is performed, `` in the back of the symbol row, A light source that irradiates light to a display surface is provided, and the display surface allows the player to visually recognize the identification information image when the light source irradiates light, and the light source emits light. The identification information image is formed so as not to be visible to the player when the irradiation is not performed. "
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an appearance of a slot machine according to an embodiment.
FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing a symbol row of an identification information image drawn on a reel of the slot machine of the embodiment.
FIG. 3 is a view showing winning combinations and payout numbers corresponding to winning symbol combinations of the slot machine of the embodiment.
FIG. 4 is a sectional view for explaining the inside of the fourth reel of the slot machine of the embodiment.
FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing an example of an identification information image drawn on a fourth reel of the slot machine of the embodiment.
FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing an example of an identification information image drawn on a fourth reel of the slot machine of the embodiment.
FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a main control circuit of the slot machine of the embodiment.
FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a sub control circuit of the slot machine of the embodiment.
FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing a flow of a main process of a main control circuit in the slot machine of the embodiment.
FIG. 10 is a flowchart following FIG. 9 of the present embodiment.
FIG. 11 is a flowchart subsequent to FIG. 10 of the present embodiment.
FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating a flow of a start command receiving process in the sub-control circuit of the present embodiment.
FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating a flow of a reel stop command receiving process in the sub-control circuit of the embodiment.
FIG. 14 is a flowchart illustrating a flow of a one game end command receiving process in the sub control circuit of the present embodiment.
[Explanation of symbols]
10 slot gaming machine
14L, 14C, 14R display window
26L, 26C, 26R reel
30 Display device
34L, 34C, 34R Stop button
62L, 62C, 62R stepping motor
71-band reel display window
100 Main control circuit
106 Main CPU
114 Motor drive circuit
116 Reel rotation angle position detection circuit
130 Sub-control circuit
131 belt reel
132 Direction Lamp
1310 Sub CPU
1320 Sub RAM
1330 Sub ROM
1360 Motor drive circuit
1370 Lamp drive circuit
1380 Sound ROM

Claims (2)

A pattern row on which a plurality of types of identification information images required for the game are drawn, and a display surface for allowing the player to visually recognize the identification information image drawn on the pattern row,
A gaming machine in which a game that can transition to a state advantageous to a player is performed according to the identification information image when the identification information image is stopped and displayed,
A light source for irradiating the display surface with light is provided at the back of the symbol row,
The display surface is such that when the light source emits light, the player can visually recognize the identification information image, and when the light source does not emit light, the player cannot visually recognize the identification information image. A gaming machine characterized by being formed as such. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the display surface has been subjected to a smoke process.

Images