JP2009261689A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine capable of suppressing a player from feeling bored in a period of continuously reporting the occurrence of a failure. <P>SOLUTION: A Pachinko slot machine (1) includes a hopper error detection part (44) for discriminating whether or not the number of medals housed in a hopper (40) is 15 or more. The Pachinko slot machine (1) selects one of two or more kinds of predetermined sounds as an error sound and the selected error sound is outputted from speakers (9L, 9R) according to a determination result by the hopper error detection part (44). <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2010,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine such as a pachislot machine.

  Conventionally, it is detected that a plurality of reels having a plurality of symbols arranged on each surface, a game medal, a coin, etc. (hereinafter referred to as a “medal, etc.”) and a start lever is operated by a player, A start switch that requests the start of rotation of a plurality of reels and a stop button provided corresponding to each of the plurality of reels are detected by the player, and the stop of rotation of the corresponding reel is requested. A stop switch that outputs a signal, a stepping motor that is provided corresponding to each of the plurality of reels, and that transmits each driving force to each reel, and a stepping motor based on the signals output by the start switch and the stop switch A reel control unit that controls the operation of each reel and rotates and stops each reel, and the start lever is operated. Is detected, the lottery is performed based on the random number value, and the reel rotation is stopped based on the result of the lottery (hereinafter referred to as “internal winning combination”) and the timing at which the stop button is detected. A game machine called pachislot is known.

  This gaming machine gives a player a profit by paying out medals or the like when the rotation of all the reels stops and the symbols of each reel become a specific combination (winning symbol).

In such a gaming machine, there has been proposed one that notifies the occurrence of a malfunction with a specific sound when a malfunction occurs such that there is no medal in a hopper that pays out medals (for example, see Patent Document 1). According to this gaming machine, it is possible to notify a player or an employee of a game hall of the occurrence of a malfunction by a specific sound.
JP 2006-68542 A

  By the way, in the gaming machine as described above, when a problem occurs, a specific sound continues to be output until the problem is solved or an operation for stopping the generation of the specific sound is performed. For this reason, if the specific sound for notifying the occurrence of a malfunction is one kind of predetermined sound, the player is bored during a period during which the specific sound is continuously emitted, that is, during a period during which the occurrence of the malfunction is continuously reported. As a result, there is a possibility that the player quits the game and the operating rate of the gaming machine decreases. Therefore, it has been demanded to provide a gaming machine that can prevent the player from feeling bored during the period in which the occurrence of the malfunction is continuously reported.

  An object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine that can suppress a player from feeling bored during a period in which the occurrence of a malfunction is continuously reported.

  The present invention provides the following gaming machines.

  (1) Symbol display means (for example, reels 3L, 3C, 3R, which will be described later) and display windows 21L, 21C, which will be described later, having a plurality of display units (for example, reels 3L, 3C, 3R, which will be described later) that display a plurality of types of symbols. , 21R, etc.), a start operation means that can be operated by the player (for example, a start lever 6 described later), and a unit game (for example, one time operation described later) according to the operation of the start operation means by the player. Start command means (for example, a start switch 6S described later) for outputting a game start command signal for instructing the start of a game, etc., and at least one of a plurality of roles determined in advance according to the game start command signal In accordance with the internal lottery means (for example, means for performing the processing of FIG. 19 described later, main CPU 31 described later) and the game start command signal, the drawing on the plurality of display units is determined. Corresponding to each of the start control means (for example, a motor drive circuit 39 described later, stepping motors 49L, 49C, 49R described later, a main control circuit 71 described later), and the display units. A plurality of stop operation means (for example, stop buttons 7L, 7C, 7R, etc. described later) provided by the player and corresponding symbols on the display unit according to the operation of the stop operation means by the player. Stop command means for outputting a stop command signal for commanding the stop of the variable display (for example, a stop switch 7S to be described later), and in accordance with the stop command signal, the symbol variation display on the display unit corresponding to the stop command signal Stop control means (for example, a motor drive circuit 39 described later, stepping motors 49L, 49C, 49R described later, a main control circuit 71 described later, etc.) , A malfunction detection means for detecting a malfunction of the gaming machine (for example, a hopper error detection unit 44 to be described later) and a malfunction detected by the malfunction detection means. Fault sound selecting means (for example, a sub CPU 81 described later) for selecting one of a plurality of types of sounds as a fault sound, and sound output means (for example, described later) for outputting the fault sound selected by the fault sound selecting means. Speaker 9L, 9R, etc.).

  (1) According to the gaming machine described in (1), a defect detection unit that detects a defect in the gaming machine, and one of a plurality of predetermined sounds is selected as a defect sound according to the detection of the defect by the defect detection unit. And a sound output means for outputting the trouble sound selected by the trouble sound selection means. For this reason, when a malfunction of the gaming machine is detected by the malfunction detection means, a sound selected from a plurality of types of sounds by the malfunction sound selection means is output from the sound output means as a malfunction sound. Therefore, every time a malfunction occurs in the gaming machine, by changing the sound selected as the malfunction sound by the malfunction sound selection means, a different malfunction sound can be emitted from the sound output means, and the occurrence of the malfunction is notified. It is possible to suppress the player from feeling bored during the continuous period.

  (2) In the gaming machine described in (1), game value insertion means (for example, a medal insertion slot 10 described later) that allows a player to input a game value (for example, a medal described later), and the game value Game value information storage means (for example, an input number counter described later, a main control circuit 71 described later) that stores information on the game value input to the input means, and symbols that are stopped and displayed on the plurality of display units Game value payout means (for example, a hopper 40 described later, a medal detection unit 40S described later, a hopper drive circuit 41 described later, a main control circuit 71 described later, etc.) for paying out a predetermined amount of game value in accordance with the combination And an expected value of a payout rate indicating a ratio of a total amount of game values paid out by the game value payout means during the predetermined period to a total amount of game values input into the game value input means during a predetermined period. A starting rate setting means (for example, a main CPU 31 to be described later), and the start operation means is provided that a predetermined amount of game value information is stored in the game value information storage means. In response to an operation of the start operation means by the player, the game start command signal is output, and the defective sound selection means is responsive to an expected value of the payout rate set by the payout rate setting means. A gaming machine, wherein one of the plurality of sounds is selected as a trouble sound.

  (2) According to the gaming machine described in (2), the amount of the play rate indicating the ratio of the total amount of game value paid out by the game value payout means during the predetermined period to the total amount of game value input into the game value input means during the predetermined period A yield rate setting means for setting an expected value in advance is provided. Then, the defective sound selection means selects one of a plurality of types of sounds as a defective sound in accordance with the expected value of the payout ratio set by the payout ratio setting means. For this reason, the expected value of the payout rate can be notified by the trouble sound emitted from the sound output means.

  (3) The gaming machine according to (2), wherein the defect detection unit detects a defect in which a game value paid out by the game value paying unit is insufficient.

  According to the gaming machine described in (3), the defect detecting means detects a defect in which the game value paid out by the game value paying means is insufficient. For this reason, when the malfunction that the game value paid out by the game value paying means is insufficient occurs, this can be notified, and the expected value of the payout rate can also be notified.

  According to the gaming machine of the present invention, each time a malfunction occurs in the gaming machine, the sound selected as the malfunctioning sound by the malfunctioning sound selection means can be changed to cause different malfunctioning sounds to be output from the sound output means. It is possible to suppress the player from feeling bored during the period in which the occurrence of the malfunction is continuously reported.

[Functional flow of pachislot]
Embodiments according to the gaming machine of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. First, with reference to FIG. 1, the functional flow of the gaming machine (hereinafter, pachislot) 1 in the present embodiment will be described.

  When a medal is inserted by the player and the start lever 6 is operated, one value (hereinafter referred to as a random value) is extracted from random numbers in a predetermined numerical range (for example, 0 to 65535).

  The internal lottery means (main CPU 31 described later) performs lottery based on the extracted random number value and determines an internal winning combination. By determining the internal winning combination, a combination of symbols that permits display along a winning determination line described later is determined. The types of symbol combinations include those related to “winning” in which merits such as paying out medals, re-games, bonuses, etc. are given to players, and other so-called “loses”. , Is provided.

  Subsequently, after the plurality of reels 3L, 3C, 3R are rotated, when the player presses the stop buttons 7L, 7C, 7R, reel stop control means (a motor drive circuit 39 described later, a stepping described later) The motors 49L, 49C, and 49R perform control to stop the rotation of the corresponding reel based on the internal winning combination and the timing when the stop button is pressed.

  Here, in the pachi-slot 1, basically, control for stopping the rotation of the corresponding reel is performed within a specified time (190 msec) from when the stop button is pressed. In the present embodiment, the number of symbols that move with the rotation of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R within the specified time is referred to as “the number of sliding symbols”, and the maximum number is defined as four symbols.

  The reel stop control means displays the symbol combination as much as possible along the winning determination line using the specified time when an internal winning combination permitting display of the symbol combination related to winning is determined. Then, the rotation of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R is stopped. On the other hand, combinations of symbols that are not permitted to be displayed by the internal winning combination are displayed on the reels 3L, 3C, 3R so that they are not displayed along the winning determination line using the specified time. Stop rotation.

  Thus, when all the rotations of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R are stopped, the winning combination determination unit (main CPU 31 described later) relates to the winning combination of symbols displayed along the winning determination line. It is determined whether or not. When it is determined that the prize is related to a prize, a bonus such as a medal payout is given to the player. A series of flows as described above is performed as one game in the pachislot 1.

  The hopper error detection unit 44 has a hopper 40 (see FIG. 3 to be described later) capable of storing a large amount of medals to be paid out, and the number of medals stored is a predetermined number (15 in the present embodiment) or more. It is determined whether or not.

  Further, in the pachislot 1, in the above-described series of flows, video display performed by the liquid crystal display device 5, light output performed by the lamp 14, sound output performed by the speakers 9L and 9R, or a combination thereof is used. Various productions are performed.

  When the start lever 6 is operated by the player, an effect random number value (hereinafter referred to as effect random number value) is extracted separately from the random number value used for determining the internal winning combination. When the effect random number is extracted, the effect content determining means (sub-CPU 81 described later) determines, by lottery, what is to be executed this time among a plurality of types of effect contents associated with the internal winning combination.

  When the effect content is determined, the effect execution means (the liquid crystal display device 5 described later, the speakers 9L and 9R described later, and the lamp 14 described later), when the reels 3L, 3C and 3R start to rotate, each reel 3L. , 3C, 3R, the execution of the performance is advanced in conjunction with each opportunity, such as when the determination of the presence or absence of a prize is made. As described above, in the pachislot 1, the player has an opportunity to know or predict the determined internal winning combination (in other words, a combination of symbols to be aimed at) by executing the production contents associated with the internal winning combination. It is provided and the player's interest is improved.

  Further, when the hopper error detection unit 44 determines that the number of medals accommodated in the hopper 40 is less than 15, the malfunction sound selection means (sub CPU 81 described later) sets a plurality of predetermined sounds. One of the types of sounds is selected as an error sound output from the speakers 9L and 9R. Thereby, every time it is determined that the number of medals accommodated in the hopper 40 is less than 15, different sounds can be output. In this embodiment, when it is determined that the number of medals accommodated in the hopper 40 is less than 15 and the output of the error sound is started, the error sound is displayed in an error release switch 431 (described later). The output is continued until the operation is performed (see FIG. 3 described later).

[Pachislot structure]
The functional flow of the pachislot 1 has been described above. Next, the structure of the pachislot machine 1 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS.

<External structure of pachislot>
FIG. 2 shows an external structure of the pachi-slot 1 in the present embodiment.

(Reel and display window)
The pachi-slot 1 includes a cabinet 1a that houses reels 3L, 3C, 3R, a circuit board, and the like, and a front door 2 that is attached to the cabinet 1a so as to be openable and closable. Inside the cabinet 1a, three reels 3L, 3C, 3R are provided side by side. Each of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R is configured by attaching a belt-like sheet in which a plurality of symbols (for example, 21 pieces) are continuously arranged along the rotation direction to the peripheral surface of a cylindrical frame.

  A liquid crystal display device 5 is provided at the center of the front door 2. The liquid crystal display device 5 includes a display screen 5a including symbol display areas 21L, 21C, and 21R, and is provided so as to be positioned on the near side superimposed on the three reels 3L, 3C, and 3R when viewed from the front. The symbol display areas 21L, 21C, and 21R are provided corresponding to the three reels 3L, 3C, and 3R, respectively, and have a configuration capable of transmitting through the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R provided behind them. I have.

  In other words, the symbol display areas 21L, 21C, and 21R serve as display windows, and the player can visually recognize the rotation and stop operation of the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R provided behind the display areas. Become. In the present embodiment, video is displayed using the entire display screen 5a including the symbol display areas 21L, 21C, and 21R, and an effect is executed.

  The symbol display areas (hereinafter referred to as display windows) 21L, 21C, 21R have a plurality of types arranged on the surfaces of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R when the rotation of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R provided behind them is stopped. Among the symbols, one symbol (three in total) is displayed in each of the upper, middle, and lower regions within the frame. In addition, it is determined whether or not a pseudo line formed by combining any one of the three areas including the upper, middle, and lower stages of each display window 21L, 21C, and 21R is a prize. It is defined as the target line (winning determination line).

  In the present embodiment, a top line 8b formed by combining the upper stages of the display windows 21L, 21C, 21R, a center line 8c formed by combining the middle stages of the display windows 21L, 21C, 21R, and the display windows 21L, 21C. , 21R, the bottom line 8d, the left display window 21L, the middle display window 21C, the middle display window 21C, the lower display window 21R, and the lower display window 21L. In addition, five of the cross-up line 8a formed by combining the middle stage of the middle display window 21C and the upper stage of the right display window 21R are provided as winning determination lines.

(Operating device)
The front door 2 is provided with various devices to be operated by the player. The medal slot 10 is provided for receiving a medal dropped from the outside by the player. The medals received in the medal slot 10 are inserted into one game with a predetermined number (for example, three) as an upper limit, and the amount exceeding the predetermined number can be deposited in the pachislot 1 ( So-called credit function).

  The bet button 11 is provided to determine the number of coins to be inserted into one game from medals deposited inside the pachislot 1. The checkout button 12 is provided to pull out medals deposited inside the pachislot 1 to the outside.

  The start lever 6 is provided to start the rotation of all the reels 3L, 3C, 3R. The stop buttons 7L, 7C, 7R are associated with the three reels 3L, 3C, 3R, respectively, and are provided to stop the rotation of the corresponding reels 3L, 3C, 3R.

(Other equipment)
The 7-segment display 13 is made up of 7-segment LEDs. The number of medals inserted in the current game (hereinafter referred to as the inserted number), the number of medals to be paid out to the player as a privilege (hereinafter referred to as the number of payouts), pachislot 1 Information such as the number of medals deposited in the inside (hereinafter referred to as the number of credits) is digitally displayed to the player.

  The lamp (LED or the like) 14 outputs light in a turn-on / off pattern according to the content of the effect. The speakers 9L and 9R output sound such as sound effects and music according to the contents of the production. The medal payout opening 15 guides medals discharged by driving a medal payout device 40 (see FIG. 3 described later) to the outside. The medals discharged from the medal payout opening 15 are stored in the medal tray 16.

<Internal structure of pachislot>
FIG. 3 shows the internal structure of the pachi-slot 1 in the present embodiment. The state where the front door 2 is opened and the structure on the back surface side of the front door 2 and the structure inside the cabinet 1a appear is shown.

  A substrate (hereinafter referred to as a main substrate 71A) on which a main control circuit 71 (see FIG. 4 described later) is formed is provided above the cabinet 1a. The main control circuit 71 is a circuit that controls the main flow of the game in the pachislot 1 such as determination of an internal winning combination, rotation and stop of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R, and determination of the presence or absence of winning. A specific configuration of the main control circuit 71 will be described later.

  Three reels 3L, 3C, 3R are provided in the center of the cabinet 1a. Stepping motors 49L, 49C, and 49R (see FIG. 4 described later) are connected to the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R through gears having a predetermined reduction ratio.

  On the left side of the three reels 3L, 3C, 3R, a substrate (hereinafter referred to as sub-substrate 72A) on which a sub-control circuit 72 (see FIG. 4 described later) is formed is provided. The sub-control circuit 72 is a circuit that controls the execution of effects by displaying images. A specific configuration of the sub control circuit 72 will be described later.

  Below the inside of the cabinet 1a, a medal payout device (hereinafter referred to as a hopper) 40 having a structure capable of storing a large amount of medals and discharging them one by one is provided. On the left side of the hopper 40, a power supply device 43 for supplying necessary power to each device included in the pachislot 1 is provided. The power supply device 43 is provided with the error cancel switch 431 described above and a set value change switch (not shown) for changing a set value described later.

  A selector 42 is provided at the center of the back side of the front door 2 and below the display windows 21L, 21C, 21R. The selector 42 is a device for selecting whether or not a medal is appropriate in material, shape, and the like, and guides an appropriate medal received in the medal insertion slot 10 to the hopper 40. Note that a medal sensor 42S (see FIG. 4 to be described later) is provided on the path through which the medal passes in the selector 42, and detects that an appropriate medal has passed.

[Circuit configuration of pachislot]
This completes the description of the structure of the pachislot 1. Next, with reference to FIG.4 and FIG.5, the structure of the circuit with which the pachislot 1 in this Embodiment is provided is demonstrated. The pachi-slot 1 in the present embodiment includes a main control circuit 71, a sub-control circuit 72, and peripheral devices (actuators) that are electrically connected thereto.

<Main control circuit>
FIG. 4 shows a configuration of the main control circuit 71 of the pachi-slot 1 in the present embodiment.

(Microcomputer)
The main control circuit 71 includes a microcomputer 30 installed on a circuit board as a main component. The microcomputer 30 includes a CPU (hereinafter referred to as main CPU) 31, a ROM (hereinafter referred to as main ROM) 32, and a RAM (hereinafter referred to as main RAM) 33.

  The main ROM 32 has a data table (see FIGS. 6 to 12 described later) such as a control program (see FIGS. 17 to 24 described later) executed by the main CPU 31 and an internal lottery table (see FIGS. 9 and 10 described later). ), Data for transmitting various control commands (commands) to the sub control circuit 72 are stored. The main RAM 33 is provided with a storage area (see FIGS. 13 to 15 described later) for storing various data such as an internal winning combination determined by execution of the control program.

(Random number generator etc.)
The main CPU 31 is connected to a clock pulse generation circuit 34, a frequency divider 35, a random number generator 36, and a sampling circuit 37. The clock pulse generation circuit 34 and the frequency divider 35 generate clock pulses. The main CPU 31 executes a control program based on the generated clock pulse. The random number generator 36 generates a random number within a predetermined range (for example, 0 to 65535). The sampling circuit 37 extracts one value from the generated random numbers.

(Switch etc.)
A switch or the like is connected to the input port of the microcomputer 30. The main CPU 31 receives input from a switch or the like and controls the operation of peripheral devices such as stepping motors 49L, 49C, and 49R. The stop switch 7S detects that each of the three stop buttons 7L, 7C, 7R has been pressed (stop operation) by the player. The start switch 6S detects that the start lever 6 has been operated by the player (start operation).

  The medal sensor 42S detects that the medal received in the medal slot 10 has passed through the selector 42 described above. The bet switch 11S detects that the bet button 11 has been pressed by the player. Further, the settlement switch 12S detects that the settlement button 12 has been pressed by the player.

(Peripheral devices and circuits)
Peripheral devices whose operations are controlled by the microcomputer 30 include stepping motors 49L, 49C, 49R, a 7-segment display 13, and a hopper 40. A circuit for controlling the operation of each peripheral device is connected to the output port of the microcomputer 30.

  The motor drive circuit 39 controls driving of stepping motors 49L, 49C, 49R provided corresponding to the reels 3L, 3C, 3R. The reel position detection circuit 50 detects a reel index indicating that the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R have made one rotation according to each reel 3L, 3C, and 3R by an optical sensor having a light emitting unit and a light receiving unit.

  The stepping motors 49L, 49C, and 49R have a configuration in which the momentum is proportional to the number of output pulses and the rotation axis can be stopped at a specified angle. The driving force of the stepping motors 49L, 49C, 49R is transmitted to the reels 3L, 3C, 3R via a gear having a predetermined reduction ratio. Each time one pulse is output to the stepping motors 49L, 49C, 49R, the reels 3L, 3C, 3R rotate at a constant angle.

  The main CPU 31 counts the number of times the pulses are output to the stepping motors 49L, 49C, 49R after detecting the reel index, thereby rotating the rotation angles of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R (mainly the reels 3L, 3C, The number of symbols 3R has rotated) is managed, and the positions of the symbols arranged on the surfaces of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R are managed.

  The display unit drive circuit 48 controls the operation of the 7-segment display 13. The hopper drive circuit 41 controls the operation of the hopper 40. The hopper 40 includes a medal detection unit 40S that detects medals discharged from the hopper 40 and a hopper error detection unit 44 that determines whether or not the number of medals stored in the hopper 40 is 15 or more. And are provided.

  Here, each medal accommodated in the hopper is formed with a uniform shape and weight. For this reason, the hopper error detection unit 44 measures the total weight of medals accommodated in the hopper 40, and divides the measured total weight by the weight per medal to thereby determine the medals accommodated in the hopper 40. Can be discriminated. If the determined number of medals is less than 15, the hopper error signal for notifying the hopper 40 that the medals should be replenished is transmitted to the microcomputer 30.

  The payout completion signal circuit 51 manages medal detection performed by the medal detection unit 40S provided in the hopper 40, and checks whether or not the medals discharged from the hopper 40 have reached the payout number.

<Sub control circuit>
FIG. 5 shows a configuration of the sub-control circuit 72 of the pachislot 1 in the present embodiment.

  The sub control circuit 72 is electrically connected to the main control circuit 71 and performs processing such as determination and execution of effect contents based on a command transmitted from the main control circuit 71. The sub control circuit 72 basically includes a CPU (hereinafter referred to as sub CPU) 81, a ROM (hereinafter referred to as sub ROM) 82, a RAM (hereinafter referred to as sub RAM) 83, a rendering processor 84, a drawing RAM 85, a driver 87, a DSP (DSP). Digital signal processor) 88, audio RAM 89, A / D converter 90, and amplifier 91 are included.

  The sub CPU 81 controls the output of video, sound, and light in accordance with a control program (see FIGS. 26 to 28 described later) stored in the sub ROM 82 in accordance with a command transmitted from the main control circuit 71. The sub-RAM 83 is provided with a storage area for registering the determined contents and effects data, and a storage area for storing various data such as an internal winning combination transmitted from the main control circuit 71. The sub ROM 82 basically includes a program storage area and a data storage area.

  A control program executed by the sub CPU 81 is stored in the program storage area. For example, in the control program, a main board communication task for controlling communication with the main control circuit 71 (see FIG. 26 to be described later) and a random number for production are extracted, and the contents of production (production data) are determined and registered. An effect registration task (see FIG. 27 to be described later), a drawing control task for controlling the display of video by the liquid crystal display device 5 based on the determined effect content, a lamp control task for controlling the output of light by the lamp 14, An audio control task for controlling sound output from the speakers 9L and 9R is included.

  The data storage area is a storage area for storing various data tables, a storage area for storing the effect data constituting each effect content, a storage area for storing animation data related to the creation of video, BGM, sound effects, the above-mentioned error sound, etc. A storage area for storing sound data, a storage area for storing lamp data relating to the light on / off pattern, and the like.

  The sub control circuit 72 is connected to the liquid crystal display device 5, the speakers 9 </ b> L and 9 </ b> R, the lamp 14, and the error release switch 431 as peripheral devices whose operations are controlled.

  The sub CPU 81, the rendering processor 84, the drawing RAM 85 (including the frame buffer 86), and the driver 87 create a video according to the animation data designated by the contents of the presentation, and display the created video on the liquid crystal display device 5.

  Further, the sub CPU 81, DSP 88, audio RAM 89, A / D converter 90, and amplifier 91 output sounds such as BGM from the speakers 9L and 9R according to the sound data specified by the contents of effects. Further, the sub CPU 81 turns on and off the lamp 14 in accordance with the lamp data designated by the contents of the effect.

[Configuration of data table stored in main ROM]
This completes the description of the circuit configuration of the pachislot machine 1. Next, the configuration of various data tables stored in the main ROM 32 will be described with reference to FIGS.

[Design arrangement table]
The symbol arrangement table will be described with reference to FIG. The symbol arrangement table defines the position of each symbol in the rotation direction of each reel 3L, 3C, 3R and data (hereinafter referred to as symbol code) specifying the type of symbol arranged at each position.

  In the symbol arrangement table, when the reel index is detected, the symbol positions existing in the middle stages of the display windows 21L, 21C, and 21R are set to “0”, and the symbols are arranged in the order of advance in the rotation direction of the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R. “0” to “20” are respectively assigned to the positions. Therefore, by managing how many symbols have been rotated since the reel index was detected, by referring to the symbol arrangement table, the positions of symbols existing mainly in the middle stages of the display windows 21L, 21C, and 21R and It is possible to always manage the type of the symbol.

[Design combination table]
The symbol combination table will be described with reference to FIG. In the present embodiment, when the symbol combination displayed by the reels 3L, 3C, 3R along the winning determination line matches the symbol combination defined by the symbol combination table, it is determined to be a prize, Benefits such as paying out medals, re-game operations, and bonus game operations are given to the player.

  The symbol combination table defines a symbol combination, a display combination, and a payout number predetermined according to the type of privilege. The display combination is data for identifying a combination of symbols displayed along the winning determination line.

  The display combination is represented as 1-byte data in which a unique symbol combination is assigned to each bit. For example, when the symbol “bell” of each reel 3L, 3C, 3R is displayed along the winning determination line, “bell (00000010)” is determined as the display combination.

  Further, when a numerical value of 1 or more is determined as the payout number, medals are paid out. In this embodiment, when a cherry, bell, or watermelon is determined as a display combination, medals are paid out. The number of payouts is defined according to the number of inserted sheets. Basically, a larger number of paid-out sheets is determined when the number of inserted sheets is small.

  In addition, when replay is determined as the display combination, replaying is performed. When BB is determined as the display combination, the bonus is activated. If the symbol combination displayed along the winning determination line does not match any of the symbol combinations defined by the symbol combination table, it is a so-called “losing”.

[Bonus operating table]
With reference to FIG. 8, the bonus operation time table will be described. The bonus operation time table defines data to be stored in various storage areas provided in the main RAM 33 when the bonus operation is performed.

  The in-operation flag is data for identifying the type of bonus that is activated. In the present embodiment, BB (a combination continuous action device related to a first type special combination) and RB (a first type special combination) are provided as bonus types. The operation of RB is continuously performed while the operation of BB is performed.

  The operation of BB is ended when the medals are paid out to reach the prescribed number (346 in the present embodiment). The RB is activated when a game that reaches the specified number of times (8 times in the present embodiment) is performed, when there is a winning that reaches the specified number of times (8 times in the present embodiment), or BB The operation ends when either of the operations ends. The bonus end number counter, the possible game number counter, and the possible win number counter are data for managing whether or not the specified number of times or the specified number of times as a trigger end of the bonus has been reached.

  More specifically, numerical values defined by the bonus operation time table are stored in the respective counters, and the subtraction is performed through the operation of the bonus. As a result, the operation of the corresponding bonus is completed on condition that the value of each counter is updated to “0”.

[Internal lottery table]
The internal lottery table will be described with reference to FIGS. The internal lottery table defines data pointers and lottery values according to the winning number. The data pointer is data acquired as a result of lottery performed with reference to the internal lottery table, and is data for designating an internal winning combination defined by an internal winning combination determination table described later. The data pointer is provided with a small role / replay data pointer and a bonus data pointer.

  In the present embodiment, random numbers extracted from a predetermined numerical range “0 to 65535” are sequentially subtracted by lottery values corresponding to each winning number, and whether or not the result of the subtraction is negative ( An internal lottery is performed by determining whether or not a so-called “digit” has occurred.

  Therefore, the larger the numerical value defined as the lottery value, the higher the probability that the data (that is, the data pointer) to which it is assigned will be determined. The winning probability of each winning number can be represented by “the lottery value corresponding to each winning number / the number of all random numbers that may be extracted (65536)”.

  In the present embodiment, the lottery value defined for each winning number differs depending on the set value. The set value is an index for distinguishing the degree of advantage of the player. As the set value, the setting 1, the setting 4 more advantageous than the setting 1, the setting 6 more advantageous than the setting 4, and the There are four stages of setting H, which is more advantageous than setting 6.

  By controlling this set value, the expected value of the payout rate can be set in advance. Here, the expected value of the payout rate is the ratio of the total number of medals to be paid out by the hopper 40 during a predetermined period to the total number of medals inserted into the medal slot 10 during the predetermined period.

  FIG. 9 shows an internal lottery table for a general gaming state. FIG. 10 shows an internal lottery table for RB operation. In the present embodiment, depending on the situation such as whether or not the bonus is activated, the type of internal winning combination and the winning probability that are determined are varied by using different types of internal lottery tables. , The expectation that the player holds is undulating. Further, in this embodiment, the internal lottery table for the general gaming state and the internal lottery table for RB operation are provided for each set value, and the tables in FIGS. Is.

[Internal winning combination determination table]
The internal winning combination determination table will be described with reference to FIGS. The internal winning combination determination table defines an internal winning combination in accordance with the data pointer. When the data pointer is determined, the internal winning combination is uniquely acquired.

  The internal winning combination is data for identifying a combination of symbols of each reel 3L, 3C, 3L that is permitted to be displayed along the winning determination line. Like the display combination, the internal winning combination is represented as 1-byte data in which a unique symbol combination is assigned to each bit. When the data pointer is “0”, the content of the internal winning combination is “lost”, which indicates that any display of symbol combinations defined by the symbol combination table described above is not permitted.

  FIG. 11 shows an internal winning combination determination table for a small combination / replay. The small winning combination / replay internal winning combination determination table defines an internal winning combination relating to the payout of medals or an internal winning combination relating to the operation of replay. FIG. 12 shows a bonus internal winning combination determination table. The bonus internal winning combination determination table defines internal winning combinations related to the operation of the bonus.

[Configuration of storage area provided in main RAM]
This completes the description of the contents of the data table stored in the main ROM 32. Next, the configuration of various storage areas provided in the main RAM 33 will be described with reference to FIGS.

[Internal winning combination storage area]
The configuration of the internal winning combination storing area will be described with reference to FIG. The internal winning combination storing area stores the internal winning combination represented by the above-mentioned 1-byte data. When the bit is set to “1”, display of the corresponding symbol combination is permitted. When all bits are “0”, the content is lost.

  The main RAM 33 is provided with a display combination storage area in which the display combination is stored. The configuration of the display combination storing area is the same as the configuration of the internal winning combination storing area. When “1” is set in the bit, the corresponding symbol combination is displayed along the winning determination line.

[Coverage storage area]
The configuration of the carryover combination storage area will be described with reference to FIG.

  As a result of the aforementioned lottery, when an internal winning combination relating to the operation of the bonus is determined, this is stored in the carryover combination storage area. The internal winning combination (hereinafter referred to as the carryover combination) related to the operation of the bonus stored in the carryover combination storage area is retained without being cleared until the corresponding symbol combination is displayed on the winning determination line. It has become. And while the carryover combination is stored in the carryover combination storage area, it is stored in the internal winning combination storage area regardless of the result of the lottery described above.

[Operation flag storage area]
The configuration of the operating flag storage area will be described with reference to FIG.

  The operating flag storage area stores an operating flag consisting of 1 byte. The operating flag has a unique bonus assigned to each bit. When “1” is set in the bit, the corresponding bonus is activated. The state when all bits are “0” is defined as a general gaming state.

[Configuration of data table stored in sub-ROM]
This completes the description of the configuration of the various storage areas provided in the main RAM 33. Next, the configuration of the data table stored in the sub ROM 82 will be described with reference to FIG.

[Error sound selection table]
FIG. 16 shows an error sound selection table. The error sound selection table defines the error sound according to the set value. When the number of medals accommodated in the hopper 40 is less than 15, the error sound selection table is referred to, and the error sound is uniquely selected according to the set value.

[Program flow executed in pachislot]
This completes the description of the configuration of the data table stored in the sub ROM 82. Next, the contents of the program executed by the main CPU 31 of the main control circuit 71 will be described with reference to FIGS.

[Main flowchart by control of main CPU of main control circuit]
First, with reference to FIG. 17, a main flowchart by the control of the main CPU 31 will be described. When power is turned on to the pachi-slot 1, first, the main CPU 31 performs an initialization process (S1). Next, the main CPU 31 clears the designated storage area in the main RAM 33 (S2). In this process, for example, data stored in a storage area that needs to be deleted for each game, such as an internal winning combination storage area (see FIG. 13) or a display combination storage area (see FIG. 13), is cleared. .

  Next, the main CPU 31 performs a medal acceptance / start check process which will be described later with reference to FIG. 18 (S3). In this processing, input checks of the medal sensor 42S and the start switch 6S are performed.

  Next, the main CPU 31 extracts a random value and stores it in a random value storage area provided in the main RAM 33 (S4). Next, the main CPU 31 performs an internal lottery process which will be described later with reference to FIG. 19 (S5). In this process, the internal winning combination is determined by lottery based on a random value. Next, the main CPU 31 transmits a start command to the sub-control circuit 72 (S6). The start command includes a parameter for specifying an internal winning combination.

  Next, the main CPU 31 requests the start of rotation of all the reels 3L, 3C, 3R (S7). When the start of rotation of all the reels 3L, 3C, 3R is requested, the stepping motors 49L, 49C, 49R are driven by an interrupt process (see FIG. 24 described later) executed at a constant cycle (1.1173 msec). Is controlled, and the reels 3L, 3C, 3R start to rotate.

  Next, the main CPU 31 performs a reel stop control process which will be described later with reference to FIG. 20 (S8). In this process, the input of the stop switch 7S is checked, and the rotation of the corresponding reel is stopped based on the timing when the stop button is pressed and the internal winning combination.

  Next, the main CPU 31 searches for a combination of symbols displayed along the winning determination line, and determines a payout number or the like based on the result (S9). As a result of the search, when the symbol combination displayed along the winning determination line matches the symbol combination defined by the symbol combination table (see FIG. 7), the corresponding display combination and the number of payouts are determined. Next, the main CPU 31 transmits a display command to the sub control circuit 72 (S10). The display command includes parameters that specify the display combination, the number of payouts, and the like.

  Next, the main CPU 31 performs a medal payout process (S11). In this process, the hopper 40 is driven and the number of credits is updated based on the determined payout number. Next, the main CPU 31 updates the bonus end number counter based on the payout number (S12). In this process, the numerical value determined as the payout number is subtracted from the bonus end number counter.

  Next, the main CPU 31 determines whether or not the bonus operating flag is on (S13). When determining that the bonus operating flag is on, the main CPU 31 performs a bonus end check process described later with reference to FIG. 22 (S14). In this process, it is checked whether or not to end the operation of the bonus with reference to a possible winning number counter and a possible game number counter for managing the end timing of the bonus.

  The main CPU 31 performs a bonus operation check process which will be described later with reference to FIG. 21 after S14 or when it is determined in S13 that the bonus operating flag is not on (S15). In this process, it is checked whether or not the bonus operation is started.

  Next, the main CPU 31 performs a hopper error check process which will be described later with reference to FIG. 23 (S16). In this process, it is checked whether or not the number of medals accommodated in the hopper 40 is 15 or more. When this process ends, the process proceeds to S2.

[Medal reception / start check processing]
Next, the medal acceptance / start check process will be described with reference to FIG. First, the main CPU 31 determines whether or not the automatic insertion number counter is 0 (S21). When it is determined that the automatic insertion number counter is 0, the medal passage permission is performed (S22). In this process, the solenoid of the selector 42 is driven, and the passage of medals in the selector 42 is prompted.

  When determining that the automatic insertion number counter is not 0, the main CPU 31 copies the automatic insertion number counter to the insertion number counter (S23). Next, the main CPU 31 clears the automatic insertion number counter (S24). S23 and S24 are processes for replaying.

  After S22 or S24, the main CPU 31 sets 3 as the maximum value of the insertion number counter (S25). Next, the main CPU 31 determines whether or not the bonus operating flag is on (S26). When determining that the bonus operating flag is on, the main CPU 31 changes the maximum value of the insertion number counter (S27). In this process, for example, the maximum value is changed to 2.

  The main CPU 31 determines whether or not the passage of medals has been detected after S27 or when it is determined in S26 that the bonus operating flag is not on (S28). When determining that the passage of medals has been detected, the main CPU 31 determines whether or not the inserted number counter has reached the maximum value (S29). When determining that the insertion number counter has not reached the maximum value, the main CPU 31 adds 1 to the insertion number counter (S30). Next, the main CPU 31 transmits a medal insertion command to the sub control circuit 72 (S31). The medal insertion command includes a parameter for specifying the number of inserted coins.

  When the main CPU 31 determines that the inserted number counter is the maximum value in S29, the main CPU 31 adds 1 to the credit counter (S32). The main CPU 31 checks the bet switch 11S after S32, after S31, or when it is determined that the passage of medals is not detected in S28 (S33). In this process, a numerical value corresponding to the bet button 11 is added to the inserted number counter while being subtracted from the credit counter.

  Next, the main CPU 31 determines whether or not the insertion number counter has reached the maximum value (S34). When it is determined that the insertion number counter has not reached the maximum value, the process proceeds to S28, whereas when it is determined that the insertion number counter has reached the maximum value, it is determined whether or not the start switch 6S is ON (S35). ).

  When determining that the start switch 6S is not on, the main CPU 31 proceeds to S28, whereas when determining that the start switch 6S is on, the main CPU 31 prohibits medal passage (S36). In this process, the solenoid of the selector 42 is not driven, and medals are expelled. When this process ends, the medal acceptance / start check process ends.

[Internal lottery processing]
Next, an internal lottery process will be described with reference to FIG. First, the main CPU 31 determines an internal lottery table (see FIGS. 9 and 10) and the number of lotteries (S41). The operating flag storage area (see FIG. 15) is referred to, and the internal lottery table and the number of lotteries are determined according to whether or not the bonus is activated. The number of lotteries indicates the number of times that a lottery value is subtracted and a determination is made as to whether a digit has occurred for each winning number defined by the internal lottery table.

  Next, the main CPU 31 obtains a random value stored in the random value storage area and sets it as a determination random value (S42). Next, the main CPU 31 sets 1 as the initial value of the winning number (S43).

  Next, the main CPU 31 refers to the internal lottery table and acquires a lottery value corresponding to the winning number (S44). Next, the main CPU 31 subtracts the lottery value from the determination random number value (S45). Next, the main CPU 31 determines whether or not a digit has been made (S46). When the main CPU 31 determines that the digit is not performed, the main CPU 31 subtracts 1 from the number of lotteries and adds 1 to the winning number (S47).

  Next, the main CPU 31 determines whether or not the number of lotteries is 0 (S48). When the main CPU 31 determines that the number of lotteries is not 0, the process proceeds to S44. On the other hand, when the number of lotteries is determined to be 0, the main CPU 31 sets 0 as the small role / replay data pointer and serves as the bonus data pointer. 0 is set (S49).

  When the main CPU 31 determines in S46 that a digit has been made, the main CPU 31 obtains the small role / replay data pointer and the bonus data pointer according to the current winning number (S50). After S50 or S49, the main CPU 31 refers to the small winning combination / replay internal winning combination determination table (see FIG. 11) and acquires the internal winning combination based on the small winning combination / replay data pointer (S51).

  Next, the main CPU 31 stores the acquired internal winning combination in the internal winning combination storing area (see FIG. 13) (S52). Next, the main CPU 31 determines whether or not the data stored in the carryover combination storage area (see FIG. 14) is 0 (S53). When the main CPU 31 determines that the data stored in the carryover combination storage area is 0, the main CPU 31 refers to the bonus internal winning combination determination table (see FIG. 12), and determines the internal winning combination based on the bonus data pointer. Is acquired (S54). Next, the main CPU 31 stores the acquired internal winning combination in the carryover combination storing area (S55).

  When the main CPU 31 determines that the data stored in the carryover combination storage area (see FIG. 14) is not 0 after S55 or in S53, the carryover combination storage area and the internal winning combination storage area (see FIG. 13). And the result is stored in the internal winning combination storing area (S56). That is, the internal winning combination relating to the bonus operation is carried over. When this process ends, the internal lottery process ends.

[Reel stop control process]
Next, the reel stop control process will be described with reference to FIG. First, the main CPU 31 determines whether or not a valid stop button has been pressed (S61). When the main CPU 31 determines that a valid stop button has not been pressed, it waits until it is pressed.

  When determining that a valid stop button has been pressed, the main CPU 31 invalidates the operation of the corresponding stop button (S62). The valid and invalid states of the stop buttons 7L, 7C, and 7R are managed in a predetermined storage area provided in the main RAM 33.

  Next, the main CPU 31 sets 5 as the number of checks (S63). In the present embodiment, since the maximum number of sliding symbols is “4”, when the stop button is pressed, including the symbol position in the middle of the corresponding display window, Up to the position is subject to check. That is, any of the five numerical values “0”, “1”, “2”, “3”, and “4” is determined as the number of sliding frames.

  Next, based on the internal winning combination, the main CPU 31 includes each position within the range of the number of checks including the position of the symbol in the middle of the corresponding display window (hereinafter referred to as the stop start position) when the stop button is pressed. Among the symbol positions, the symbol position with the highest priority is searched (S64). In this process, the position of the symbol that can display the combination of symbols permitted to be displayed by the internal winning combination along the winning determination line is determined as the position of the symbol with the highest priority.

  Next, the main CPU 31 determines the number of sliding symbols based on the search result (S65). The number of symbols from the stop start position to the symbol position with the highest priority is determined as the number of sliding symbols. Next, the main CPU 31 shifts to waiting for a scheduled stop position (S66). When waiting for the planned stop position, the driving of the stepping motors 49L, 49C, and 49R is controlled by an interrupt process described later (see FIG. 24 described later), and the position of the symbol with the highest priority reaches the middle of the corresponding display window. The reels are stopped from rotating after waiting.

  Next, the main CPU 31 transmits a reel stop command to the sub-control circuit 72 (S67). The reel stop command includes a parameter for specifying the type of the stopped reel.

  Next, the main CPU 31 determines whether or not there is a stop button whose operation is valid (S68). That is, it is determined whether there is a reel that is still rotating. When the main CPU 31 determines that there is a stop button with an effective operation, the main CPU 31 proceeds to S61, whereas when it determines with no stop button with an effective operation, the main CPU 31 ends the reel stop control process.

[Bonus activation check process]
Next, the bonus operation check process will be described with reference to FIG. First, the main CPU 31 determines whether or not the display combination is BB (S71). When the main CPU 31 determines that the display combination is BB, the main CPU 31 refers to the bonus operation time table (see FIG. 8), and performs BB operation processing (S72). In this process, the BB operating flag is turned on, and a predetermined value is set in the bonus end number counter.

  Next, the main CPU 31 clears the carryover combination storage area (see FIG. 14) (S73). Next, the main CPU 31 transmits a bonus start command to the sub-control circuit 72 (S74). When this process ends, the bonus operation check process ends.

  When determining that the display combination is not BB in S71, the main CPU 31 determines whether or not the display combination is replay (S75). When determining that the display combination is replay, the main CPU 31 copies the value of the insertion number counter to the automatic insertion number counter (S76).

  When determining that the display combination is not replay in S75, the main CPU 31 determines whether or not the BB operating flag is on (S77). When determining that the BB operating flag is not on, the main CPU 31 ends the bonus operation check process, whereas when determining that the BB operating flag is on, whether or not the RB operating flag is on. Is determined (S78).

  When the main CPU 31 determines that the RB operating flag is on, the main CPU 31 ends the bonus operation check process. On the other hand, when the main CPU 31 determines that the RB operating flag is not on, the main CPU 31 reads the bonus operating table (see FIG. 8). Referring to FIG. 5, the RB operation process is performed (S79). In this process, the RB operating flag is turned on, and predetermined values are set in the winning possible number counter and the possible gaming number counter. When this process ends, the bonus operation check process ends.

[Bonus end check process]
Next, the bonus end check process will be described with reference to FIG. First, the main CPU 31 determines whether or not the bonus end number counter is 0 (S81). When the main CPU 31 determines that the bonus end number counter is 0, the main CPU 31 performs BB end processing (S82). In this process, the BB operating flag and the RB operating flag are turned off, and the winning possible number counter and the possible gaming number counter for managing the end timing of the bonus are cleared. Next, the main CPU 31 transmits a bonus end command to the sub-control circuit 72 (S83). When this process ends, the bonus end check process ends.

  When the main CPU 31 determines in S81 that the bonus end number counter is not 0, the main CPU 31 updates the winning possible number counter or the possible gaming number counter (S84). In this process, the possible game number counter is decremented by one, and if there is a win, the possible pay number counter is decremented by one. Next, the main CPU 31 determines whether or not the winning possible number counter or the possible gaming number counter is 0 (S85).

  When the main CPU 31 determines that the winning possible number counter or the possible gaming number counter is not 0, the main CPU 31 ends the bonus end check process, while determining that the possible winning number counter or the possible game number counter is 0, Processing at the end of RB is performed (S86). In this process, the RB operating flag is turned off, and the winning possible number counter and the possible gaming number counter are cleared. When this process ends, the bonus end check process ends.

[Hopper error check processing]
Next, the hopper error check process will be described with reference to FIG. First, the main CPU 31 determines whether or not the number of medals accommodated in the hopper 40 is 15 or more (S91). Specifically, in this process, the hopper error detection unit 44 determines whether or not the number of medals accommodated in the hopper 40 is 15 or more, and the hopper error detection unit 44 outputs the hopper error signal described above. Is received.

  When the main CPU 31 determines that the number of medals accommodated in the hopper 40 is not 15 or more, that is, when it receives a hopper error signal, it sends an error command to the sub-control circuit 72 (S92). ). Next, the main CPU 31 turns on the hopper error flag (S93).

  Next, the main CPU 31 determines whether or not the hopper error flag is on (S94). When the main CPU 31 determines that the hopper error flag is on, it waits until it is updated to off.

  When the main CPU 31 determines in S94 that the hopper error flag is not on, or determines in S91 that the number of medals contained in the hopper 40 is not 15 or more, this process is terminated.

[Interrupt processing under the control of the main CPU (1.1173 msec)]
Next, an interrupt process (1.1173 msec) controlled by the main CPU 31 will be described with reference to FIG. First, the main CPU 31 saves a register (S101). Next, the main CPU 31 performs an input port check process which will be described later with reference to FIG. 25 (S102). In this process, signals input from various switches such as the stop switch 7S are checked.

  Next, the main CPU 31 performs a reel control process (S103). In this process, when the start of rotation of all reels 3L, 3C, 3R is requested, the rotation of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R is started, and then the stepping motors 49L, 49C, The drive of 49R is controlled. When the number of sliding pieces is determined, the driving of the stepping motor is controlled so that the rotation of the corresponding reel waits for the number of sliding pieces and the rotation is decelerated and stopped.

  Next, the main CPU 31 performs a lamp and 7-segment driving process (S104). Next, the main CPU 31 restores the register (S105). When this process ends, the interrupt process ends.

[Input port check processing]
Next, the input port check process will be described with reference to FIG. First, the main CPU 31 detects signals input from various switches (S111). Next, the main CPU 31 determines whether or not a signal is input from the error release switch 431 (S112).

  When the main CPU 31 determines that a signal has been input from the error cancel switch 431, the main CPU 31 transmits an error cancel command to the sub control circuit 72 (S113). Next, the main CPU 31 turns off the hopper error flag (S114). When this process ends, the input port check process ends.

  Next, when the main CPU 31 determines that no signal is input from the error release switch 431, the main CPU 31 performs processing according to the signal input from the various switches (S115). When this process ends, the input port check process ends.

[Program flow executed by sub CPU of sub control circuit]
This completes the description of the contents of the program executed by the main CPU 31 of the main control circuit 71. Next, the contents of a program executed by the sub CPU 81 of the sub control circuit 72 will be described with reference to FIGS.

[Main board communication task]
The main board communication task performed by the sub CPU 81 will be described with reference to FIG. First, the sub CPU 81 performs reception check of the command transmitted from the main control circuit 71 (S301). Next, when receiving a command, the sub CPU 81 extracts the type of the command (S302).

  Next, the sub CPU 81 determines whether or not a command different from the previous one has been received (S303). If the sub CPU 81 determines that a command different from the previous command has not been received, the process proceeds to S301. On the other hand, if the sub CPU 81 determines that a command different from the previous command has been received, the sub CPU 81 stores the command in the message queue (S304).

[Direction registration task]
Next, an effect registration task performed by the sub CPU 81 will be described with reference to FIG. First, the sub CPU 81 extracts a message from the message queue (S311). Next, the sub CPU 81 determines whether there is a message (S312). When the sub CPU 81 determines that there is a message, it copies the game information from the message (S313). For example, various data such as an internal winning combination, a type of reel that has stopped rotating, a display combination, an operating flag, and the like specified by parameters are copied to a storage area provided in the sub-RAM 83.

  Next, the sub CPU 81 performs an effect content determination process which will be described later with reference to FIG. 28 (S314). In this process, depending on the type of the received command, the contents of the effect are determined and the effect data is registered.

  The sub CPU 81 registers animation data after S314 or when it is determined that there is no message in S312 (S315). Next, the sub CPU 81 registers sound data (S316). Next, the sub CPU 81 registers lamp data (S317). The registration of animation data, the registration of sound data, and the registration of lamp data are performed based on the effect data registered in the effect content determination process (see FIG. 28 described later). When this process ends, the process proceeds to S311.

[Production content decision processing]
Next, with reference to FIG. 28, the flowchart of the effect content determination process performed by sub CPU81 is demonstrated. First, the sub CPU 81 determines whether or not it is a start command reception time (S321). When determining that the start command is received, the sub CPU 81 extracts the effect random number, determines the effect number by lottery based on the internal winning combination, and registers it (S322). The production number is data for designating production contents to be executed this time.

  Next, the sub CPU 81 registers the production data at the start based on the registered production number (S323). The effect data is data specifying animation data, sound data, and lamp data. When the effect data is registered, corresponding animation data and the like are determined, and effects such as video display are executed. When this process ends, the effect content determination process ends.

  Next, when determining that the start command is not received, the sub CPU 81 determines whether or not the reel stop command is received (S324). When the sub CPU 81 determines that the reel stop command is being received, the sub CPU 81 registers the stop effect data based on the registered effect number and the type of the operation stop button (S325). The operation stop button is a button that is pressed out of the effective stop buttons. When this process ends, the effect content determination process ends.

  Next, when determining that the reel stop command is not received, the sub CPU 81 determines whether or not the display command is received (S326). When determining that the display command is being received, the sub CPU 81 registers the display effect data based on the registered effect number (S327). When this process ends, the effect content determination process ends.

  Next, when determining that the display command is not received, the sub CPU 81 determines whether or not the bonus start command is received (S328). If the sub CPU 81 determines that the bonus start command has been received, the sub CPU 81 registers the bonus start effect data (S329). When this process ends, the effect content determination process ends.

  Next, when determining that the bonus start command is not received, the sub CPU 81 determines whether or not the bonus end command is received (S330). When the sub CPU 81 determines that the bonus end command is received, the sub CPU 81 registers the bonus end effect data (S331). When this process ends, the effect content determination process ends.

  Next, when determining that the bonus end command is not received, the sub CPU 81 determines whether it is an error command reception (S332). When the sub CPU 81 determines that the error command is received, the sub CPU 81 refers to the error sound selection table (see FIG. 16) and registers the effect data at the time of the hopper error (S333). Specifically, in this process, the error sound corresponding to the set value is selected with reference to the error sound selection table, and effect data for outputting the selected error sound from the speakers 9L and 9R is registered. When this process ends, the effect content determination process ends.

  Next, when determining that it is not the time of receiving an error command, the sub CPU 81 determines whether it is a time of receiving an error release command (S334). When the sub CPU 81 determines that the error cancel command is not received, the sub CPU 81 ends the effect content determination process. On the other hand, when the sub CPU 81 determines that the error cancel command is received, the sub CPU 81 registers effect data when the hopper error is canceled (S335). ). When this process ends, the effect content determination process ends.

  As described above, according to the pachislot 1, the hopper error detection unit 44 that determines whether or not the number of medals accommodated in the hopper 40 is 15 or more is provided, and according to the determination result by the hopper error detection unit 44, One of a plurality of predetermined sounds is selected as an error sound, and the selected error sound is output from the speakers 9L and 9R. For this reason, when the hopper error detection unit 44 determines that the number of medals accommodated in the hopper 40 is less than 15, the error sound selected from a plurality of predetermined sounds is output from the speaker. Output from 9L and 9R. Accordingly, each time the number of medals accommodated in the hopper 40 is less than 15, different sound sounds can be output from the speakers 9L and 9R by changing the sound selected as the error sound. The output error sound continues to be output until the error cancel switch 431 is operated. According to the above, it is possible to suppress the player from feeling bored during a period of continuously informing the occurrence of the problem that the number of medals accommodated in the hopper 40 is less than 15.

  Further, by controlling the set value, the ratio of the total number of medals to be paid out by the hopper 40 during the predetermined period to the total number of medals inserted into the medal slot 10 during the predetermined period can be set in advance. Then, according to the set value, one of a plurality of sounds is selected as an error sound. For this reason, a set value can be alert | reported by the error sound output from the speakers 9L and 9R.

  Further, the hopper error detection unit 44 detects that the number of medals accommodated in the hopper 40 is less than 15 and there is a possibility that medals to be paid out from the hopper 40 may be insufficient. For this reason, when there is a possibility that medals to be paid out from the hopper 40 may be insufficient, this can be notified, and the set value can also be notified.

  Furthermore, by adjusting the number of medals stored in advance in the hopper 40, the frequency at which the error sound is output can be adjusted, and the frequency at which the set value is notified can be adjusted.

  Although the embodiment has been described above, the present invention is not limited to this.

  In the above-described embodiment, an error sound is output when there is a possibility that medals to be paid out from the hopper 40 may be insufficient. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, when the selector 42 is jammed, It may be output when the door 2 is opened.

  In the above-described embodiment, the error sound is output from the speakers 9L and 9R. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the lamp 14 may be turned off or the video may be displayed on the liquid crystal display device 5. . When the lamp 14 is turned on and off, it is preferable to change the pattern such as the timing and period of turning on and off according to the set value. Moreover, when displaying an image on the liquid crystal display device 5, it is preferable to display a different image according to the set value.

  In the above-described embodiment, the error sound is uniquely selected according to the set value. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and lottery is performed and the error sound is selected according to the result of the lottery. Also good.

It is a figure which shows the function flow of a pachislot. It is a figure which shows the external structure of a pachislot. It is a figure which shows the internal structure of a pachislot. It is a figure which shows the structure of a main control circuit. It is a figure which shows the structure of a sub control circuit. It is a figure which shows a symbol arrangement | positioning table. It is a figure which shows a symbol combination table. It is a figure which shows a table at the time of a bonus action | operation. It is a figure which shows the internal lottery table for general game states. It is a figure which shows the internal lottery table for RB operation | movement. It is a figure which shows the internal winning combination determination table for a small combination and replay. It is a figure which shows the internal winning combination determination table for bonuses. It is a figure for demonstrating the structure of an internal winning combination storing area. It is a figure for demonstrating the structure of the carryover combination storage area. It is a figure for demonstrating the structure of the operating flag storage area. It is a figure which shows an error sound selection table. It is a main flowchart by control of main CPU. It is a flowchart which shows a medal reception / start check process. It is a flowchart which shows an internal lottery process. It is a flowchart which shows a reel stop control process. It is a flowchart which shows a bonus action check process. It is a flowchart which shows a bonus completion | finish check process. It is a flowchart which shows a hopper error check process. It is a flowchart which shows an interruption process. It is a flowchart which shows an input port check process. It is a flowchart which shows the main board | substrate communication task performed by sub CPU. It is a flowchart which shows the production registration task performed by sub CPU. It is a flowchart which shows the production content determination process performed by sub CPU.

Explanation of symbols

1 Pachislot 3L, 3C, 3R Reel 5 Liquid crystal display device 6 Start lever 7L, 7C, 7R Stop button 9L, 9R Speaker 21L, 21C, 21R Display window 40 Hopper 44 Hopper error detector 71 Main control circuit 72 Sub control circuit 431 Error Release switch

Claims (3)

A symbol display means having a plurality of display units for displaying a plurality of types of symbols;
A start operation means operable by the player;
Start instruction means for outputting a game start instruction signal for instructing start of a unit game in response to an operation of the start operation means by a player;
In accordance with the game start command signal, an internal lottery means for determining at least one of a plurality of predetermined combinations as a winning combination,
In response to the game start command signal, start control means for starting variable display of symbols on the plurality of display units;
A plurality of stop operation means provided corresponding to each of the plurality of display units and operable by the player;
In response to an operation of the stop operation means by the player, a stop command means for outputting a stop command signal for instructing a stop of the variable display of symbols on the corresponding display unit;
In accordance with the stop command signal, a game machine comprising stop control means for stopping the variable display of symbols on the display unit corresponding to the stop command signal,
A failure detection means for detecting a failure of the gaming machine;
In response to detection of a failure by the failure detection means, a failure sound selection means for selecting one of a plurality of predetermined sounds as a failure sound;
A gaming machine comprising sound output means for outputting a trouble sound selected by the trouble sound selection means. The gaming machine according to claim 1,
A game value input means by which a player can input game value;
Game value information storage means for storing information of game value input to the game value input means;
Game value payout means for paying out a predetermined amount of game value according to the combination of symbols stopped and displayed on the plurality of display units,
Outlet for presetting an expected value of a payout rate indicating a ratio of a total amount of game value paid out by the game value payout means during the predetermined period to a total amount of game value input into the game value input means during a predetermined period A rate setting means,
The start operation means outputs the game start command signal in response to an operation of the start operation means by a player on condition that a predetermined amount of game value information is stored in the game value information storage means. And
The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the defective sound selecting means selects one of the plurality of types of sounds as a defective sound in accordance with an expected value of the payout rate set by the payout rate setting means. In the gaming machine according to claim 2,
The gaming machine characterized in that the malfunction detection means detects a malfunction in which the game value paid out by the game value payout means is insufficient.

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