JP2011030960A - Gaming machine and method of controlling gaming machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a gaming machine allowing a player to always feel the possibility of winning to sufficiently enhance the sense of expectancy for the winning. <P>SOLUTION: The gaming machine includes: a lower image display panel 141 having a symbol display area 4 composed of symbol display blocks including a plurality of rows and a plurality of columns; a RAM 73 for storing identification data of symbols to be displayed in the symbol display area 4; and a main CPU 71. Symbols corresponding to the identification data of various symbols read from the RAM 73 are displayed in the symbol display area 4, and if identification data of an explosion symbol 161 are displayed in the symbol display area 4, a symbol display block group including the explosion symbol 161 adjacent to the explosion symbol 161 is set as a re-updated symbol display area 164, and symbols are redisplayed in the re-updated symbol display area 164. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2011,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine that re-updates a symbol adjacent to a special symbol and a control method thereof.

  Conventionally, in a slot machine, when a player inserts coins or bills into the slot machine and inputs a spin button, a plurality of symbols are scrolled on a display provided on the front of the housing, Each symbol stops automatically.

  In such a slot machine, for example, as disclosed in US Pat. No. 6,093,102, when a combination of symbols rearranged on a winning line is a predetermined combination, a predetermined number of coins are used. There is a slot machine having a concept of a winning line, such as a game medium such as a payout.

  In addition, such a slot machine includes, for example, a combination of symbols displayed on a winning line as disclosed in US Pat. No. 6,604,999 and US 2002/0065124. There are slot machines that perform two types of payouts, that is, a payout determined, a payout determined by the number of scatter symbols displayed, and the like.

US Pat. No. 6,093,102 US Pat. No. 6,604,999 US Patent Application Publication No. 2002/0065124

  However, in a gaming machine represented by such a conventional slot machine, when the payout is determined by a combination of symbols displayed on the winning line, how many symbols are continuously arranged on the determined winning line from the left. The dividend was decided depending on. In addition, since each symbol has its result determined by stopping the determined array reel, the combination of symbols is not a predetermined combination in the process in which the array reel stops in order from the left, It is predicted that there is no possibility of winning, and it is impossible to feel the possibility of winning in the process of stopping the array reels.

  In addition, when the payout is determined by the number of scatter symbols displayed, it is possible to have only a random payout expectation by combining a plurality of types of scatter symbols with symbols displayed on the display without regularity. It cannot be increased.

  Therefore, the present invention has been made to solve such a conventional problem, and the purpose of the present invention is to allow the player to always feel the possibility of winning a prize and to fully expect the winning prize. It is an object of the present invention to provide a gaming machine that can be increased.

  In order to achieve the above object, a gaming machine according to a first aspect of the present invention includes a display having a symbol display area configured by a symbol display block group including a plurality of rows and a plurality of columns, and a symbol display area of the display. A gaming machine comprising: a memory that stores identification data of symbols including special symbols to be displayed; and a controller that executes processes (a) to (f) below. (A) A main game is executed to read and display identification data of various symbols to be displayed in the symbol display area of the display from the memory, and (b) in the process of (a), the various games displayed in the symbol display area It is determined whether to give the first prize according to the symbol identification data, (c) it is determined whether the special symbol identification data is displayed in the symbol display area, and (d) the result of the determination in (c), When it is determined that the identification data of the special symbol is displayed, a symbol display block group adjacent to the special symbol including the special symbol is set as a re-update symbol display area, and (e) other than the re-update symbol display area While holding the displayed symbols, the identification data of various symbols displayed in the re-updated symbol display area is read from the memory. The sub-game to be displayed again is continued from the main game, and (f) in the process (e), the second game is executed according to the symbol identification data displayed in the symbol display area including the re-update symbol display area. Decide whether to give 2 awards.

  According to the gaming machine of the present invention, the symbol display area adjacent to the symbol display area displaying the special symbol is set as the re-update symbol display area, and the symbol is displayed again in the re-update symbol display area. . Therefore, if the combination of symbols displayed in the symbol display area before re-updating is not a combination that gives a prize, the symbol combination displayed after re-updating is displayed by displaying the symbol again in the re-updating symbol display area. There is a possibility of a combination that gives a prize. Also, even if the combination of symbols displayed in the symbol display area before re-updating is a combination that gives a prize, by displaying the symbol again in the re-updating symbol display area, the dividend is higher than before re-updating There is a possibility of a combination that gives a prize. Therefore, by re-updating the symbols, the player can always feel the possibility of winning and the expectation for winning can be sufficiently increased.

  According to a second aspect of the present invention, in the gaming machine of the first aspect of the present invention, the controller further includes symbol identification data read from the memory in the process (e). The symbol corresponding to is controlled to move from the symbol display block above the re-update symbol display area to the symbol display block below.

  According to the gaming machine of the present invention described in claim 2, in the gaming machine of the present invention described in claim 1, the symbol displayed in the updated symbol display area is moved from the upper symbol display block to the lower symbol display block. Control. Therefore, depending on which symbol display block the symbol displayed in the re-update symbol display area moves to, there is a possibility that the combination of symbols becomes a combination that gives a prize. Therefore, the player can see the movement of the symbols with an increased expectation for winning.

  The gaming machine of the present invention described in claim 3 is the gaming machine of the present invention described in claim 1 or 2, wherein the controller further displays the symbol again in the processing of (d). A plurality of symbol display block groups are determined from the symbol display block group and set as a re-updated symbol display area.

  According to the gaming machine of the present invention described in claim 3, in the gaming machine of the present invention described in claim 1 or 2, a plurality of symbol display block groups are determined from the symbol display block group for displaying symbols again. And set as a re-update symbol display area. For this reason, the probability that the combination of symbols becomes a combination for giving a prize varies depending on the determined re-updated symbol display area. Therefore, the player can increase expectation for determination of the re-update symbol display area.

  A gaming machine according to a fourth aspect of the present invention is the gaming machine according to the first to third aspects of the present invention, wherein the controller further executes the sub game in the process (e). The number of times is determined randomly, and the processes (d) to (f) are executed the determined number of times.

  According to the gaming machine of the present invention described in claim 4, in the gaming machine of the invention described in claims 1 to 3, the number of times of executing the sub-game for displaying the symbol again in the re-updated symbol display area is randomly selected. To decide. For this reason, if the number of times of executing the sub-game is determined to be large, the probability that the combination of symbols becomes a combination for giving a prize increases. Therefore, the player can raise a sense of expectation in the number of times the sub game is executed.

  A gaming machine according to a fifth aspect of the present invention is the gaming machine according to any one of the first to fourth aspects, wherein the controller further displays identification data of a special symbol in the process (c). If it is determined that the game has been performed, the first process for executing the processes (d) to (f) and the second process for executing the next main game without executing the processes (d) to (f). The process is randomly switched.

  According to the gaming machine of the present invention described in claim 5, in the gaming machine of the invention described in claims 1 to 4, when a special symbol is displayed, a re-update symbol display area is set and the symbol is re-updated A first process for displaying again in the symbol display area and a second process for not displaying the symbols again in the re-update symbol display area are randomly switched. For this reason, if the combination of symbols displayed in the symbol display area is not a combination that gives a prize, a combination that gives a prize by displaying a symbol again in the re-update symbol display area, and a re-update symbol display In some cases, the symbols are not displayed again in the area, and the combination is not awarding a prize. Therefore, the player can have a sense of expectation for displaying the symbol again in the re-update symbol display area.

  The gaming machine of the present invention according to claim 6 has a symbol display area composed of a symbol display block group consisting of a plurality of rows and a plurality of columns, and a plurality of rows or a plurality of columns of symbols when the main game is started. A display that individually scrolls and displays a symbol band of a plurality of symbols in the row direction or the column direction in each row or column in the display block group, and symbol identification data including a special symbol displayed in the symbol display area of the display A gaming machine comprising: a memory for storing a memory; and a controller that executes the following processes (a) to (f): (A) A main game for reading and displaying identification data of various symbols to be displayed on each symbol display area of the display from the memory is executed, and (b) displayed in the symbol display area in the process (a). It is determined whether to give the first prize according to the identification data of various symbols, (c) it is determined whether the identification data of the special symbol is displayed in the symbol display area, and (d) the result of the determination of (c) When it is determined that the identification data of the special symbol is displayed, all the block groups in the symbol display area connected from the display block of the special symbol in the direction opposite to the scroll direction of the row or column are displayed as renewed symbols. (E) In the state where symbols displayed other than the re-update symbol display area are held, the re-update symbol display area A sub-game for continuing to display the symbols to be displayed is continued from the main game, and (f) the symbol identification data displayed in the symbol display area including the re-update symbol display area in the process (e) Accordingly, it is determined whether or not to give the second prize.

  According to the gaming machine of the present invention as set forth in claim 6, when special symbols are displayed, all block groups in the symbol display area connected from the special symbol display blocks in the direction opposite to the scroll direction of the row or column are displayed. The re-update symbol display area is set, and the symbol is displayed again in the re-update symbol display area. Therefore, if the combination of symbols displayed in the symbol display area before re-updating is not a combination that gives a prize, the symbol combination displayed after re-updating is displayed by displaying the symbol again in the re-updating symbol display area. There is a possibility of a combination that gives a prize. Also, even if the combination of symbols displayed in the symbol display area before re-updating is a combination that gives a prize, by displaying the symbol again in the re-updating symbol display area, the dividend is higher than before re-updating There is a possibility of a combination that gives a prize. Therefore, by re-updating the symbols, the player can always feel the possibility of winning and the expectation for winning can be sufficiently increased.

  In the gaming machine of the present invention described in claim 7, in the gaming machine of the invention described in claim 6, the controller further determines that the identification data of the special symbol is displayed in the process of (c). In this case, the number of times the sub game is executed is randomly determined, and the processes (d) to (f) are executed the determined number of times.

  According to the gaming machine of the present invention described in claim 7, in the gaming machine of the invention described in claim 6, when the special symbol is displayed, the display block of the special symbol is reversed in the direction opposite to the scroll direction of the row or column. All block groups in the continuous symbol display area are set as the re-update symbol display area, and the number of times of executing the sub-game for displaying the symbol again in the re-update symbol display area is determined at random. For this reason, if the number of times of executing the sub-game is determined to be large, the probability that the combination of symbols becomes a combination for giving a prize increases. Therefore, the player can raise a sense of expectation in the number of times the sub game is executed.

  The gaming machine according to an eighth aspect of the present invention is the gaming machine according to the sixth or seventh aspect, wherein the controller further displays identification data of a special symbol in the process of (c). If it is determined that the game has been performed, the first process for executing the processes (d) to (f) and the second process for executing the next main game without executing the processes (d) to (f). The process is randomly switched.

  According to the gaming machine of the present invention described in claim 8, in the gaming machine of the invention described in claim 6 or 7, when the special symbol is displayed, the special symbol is reversed in the direction opposite to the row or column scroll direction. First block for setting all blocks in the symbol display area connected to the display block as the re-update symbol display area, and displaying the symbols again in the re-update symbol display area, and the symbols again in the re-update symbol display area The second process that is not displayed is switched at random. For this reason, if the combination of symbols displayed in the symbol display area is not a combination that gives a prize, a combination that gives a prize by displaying a symbol again in the re-update symbol display area, and a re-update symbol display In some cases, the symbols are not displayed again in the area, and the combination is not awarding a prize. Therefore, the player can have a sense of expectation for displaying the symbol again in the re-update symbol display area.

  A method for controlling a gaming machine according to a ninth aspect of the present invention is a method for controlling a gaming machine including a controller. (A) Reading identification data of various symbols displayed in a symbol display area of a display from a memory (B) determining whether to give a first prize according to identification data of various symbols displayed in the symbol display area in the step (a), and (c) ) Determining whether the identification data of the special symbol is displayed in the symbol display area; and (d) if it is determined that the identification data of the special symbol is displayed as a result of the determination in (c), the special symbol (E) setting the symbol display block group adjacent to the special symbol including While holding the symbols displayed in areas other than the new symbol display area, the sub-game for reading the identification data of various symbols displayed in the re-updated symbol display area from the memory and displaying it again is continued from the main game and executed. And (f) determining whether to give a second prize according to the symbol identification data displayed in the symbol display area including the re-update symbol display area in the step (e). It is characterized by.

  According to the method for controlling a gaming machine of the present invention according to claim 9, the symbol display area adjacent to the symbol display area displaying the special symbol is set as the re-update symbol display area, and the symbol is displayed in the re-update symbol display area. Control to display again. Therefore, if the combination of symbols displayed in the symbol display area before re-updating is not a combination that gives a prize, the symbol combination displayed after re-updating is displayed by displaying the symbol again in the re-updating symbol display area. There is a possibility of a combination that gives a prize. Also, even if the combination of symbols displayed in the symbol display area before re-updating is a combination that gives a prize, by displaying the symbol again in the re-updating symbol display area, the dividend is higher than before re-updating There is a possibility of a combination that gives a prize. Therefore, by re-updating the symbols, the player can always feel the possibility of winning and the expectation for winning can be sufficiently increased.

  A method for controlling a gaming machine according to a tenth aspect of the present invention is the method for controlling a gaming machine according to the ninth aspect, wherein the controller reads from the memory in the step (e). Moving the symbol corresponding to the symbol identification data from the upper symbol display block to the lower symbol display block of the re-updated symbol display area.

  According to the method for controlling a gaming machine of the present invention as set forth in claim 10, in the method for controlling a gaming machine of the present invention as set forth in claim 9, symbols to be displayed in the updated symbol display area are changed from the symbol display block of information. Controls movement to the lower symbol display block. Therefore, depending on which symbol display block the symbol displayed in the re-update symbol display area moves to, there is a possibility that the combination of symbols becomes a combination that gives a prize. Therefore, the player can see the movement of the symbols with an increased expectation for winning.

  According to the method for controlling a gaming machine of the present invention described in claim 11, in the method of controlling a gaming machine of the present invention described in claim 9 or 10, the controller performs the step (d). And a step of determining a plurality of symbol display block groups from the symbol display block group for displaying symbols again and setting the same as a re-updated symbol display area.

  According to the method for controlling a gaming machine of the present invention described in claim 11, in the method for controlling a gaming machine of the present invention described in claim 9 or 10, a plurality of symbol display blocks from which a symbol is displayed again are displayed. The symbol display block group is determined and set as a re-updated symbol display area. For this reason, the probability that the combination of symbols becomes a combination for giving a prize varies depending on the determined re-updated symbol display area. Therefore, the player can increase expectation for determination of the re-update symbol display area.

  According to the method for controlling a gaming machine of the present invention described in claim 12, in the method of controlling a gaming machine of the present invention described in claims 9 to 11, the controller is in the step (c). When it is determined that the identification data of the special symbol is displayed, the method includes a step of randomly determining the number of times to execute the sub game and a step of executing the number of times determined in steps (d) to (f). It is characterized by that.

  According to the method for controlling a gaming machine of the present invention as set forth in claim 12, in the method for controlling a gaming machine according to claims 9 to 11, the symbol is displayed again in the re-updated symbol display area. Control to randomly determine the number of times to execute the sub-game. For this reason, if the number of times of executing the sub-game is determined to be large, the probability that the combination of symbols becomes a combination for giving a prize increases. Therefore, the player can raise a sense of expectation in the number of times the sub game is executed.

  A method for controlling a gaming machine according to a thirteenth aspect of the present invention is the method for controlling a gaming machine according to the ninth to thirteenth aspects of the present invention, wherein the controller performs a special operation in the process (c). If it is determined that the symbol identification data has been displayed, the first main processing for executing the steps (d) to (f) and the following main steps without executing the steps (d) to (f). And a step of randomly switching the second process for executing the game.

  According to the method for controlling a gaming machine of the present invention described in claim 13, in the method for controlling a gaming machine of the present invention described in claims 9 to 13, when a special symbol is displayed, a re-updated symbol display area is displayed. Is switched at random between the first process for displaying the symbol again in the re-update symbol display area and the second process for not displaying the symbol again in the re-update symbol display area. For this reason, if the combination of symbols displayed in the symbol display area is not a combination that gives a prize, a combination that gives a prize by displaying a symbol again in the re-update symbol display area, and a re-update symbol display In some cases, the symbols are not displayed again in the area, and the combination is not awarding a prize. Therefore, the player can have a sense of expectation for displaying the symbol again in the re-update symbol display area.

  A method for controlling a gaming machine according to a fourteenth aspect of the present invention is a method for controlling a gaming machine including a controller, and (a) identification data of various symbols to be displayed on each symbol display area of a display from a memory. (B) determining whether to give a first prize according to identification data of various symbols displayed in the symbol display area in the step (a); c) determining whether the identification data of the special symbol is displayed in the symbol display area; and (d) determining that the identification data of the special symbol is displayed as a result of the determination in (c), Alternatively, all the block groups in the symbol display area that are continuous from the display block of the special symbol in the direction opposite to the scroll direction of the column are reproduced. A step of setting as a new symbol display area; and (e) a sub game in which a symbol displayed in the re-update symbol display area is displayed again while holding a symbol displayed outside the re-update symbol display area. (F) In the process of (e), it is determined whether to give a second prize according to the symbol identification data displayed in the symbol display area including the re-updated symbol display area. And a stage.

  According to the method for controlling a gaming machine of the present invention according to claim 14, when a special symbol is displayed, all the symbols in the symbol display area connected from the special symbol display block in the direction opposite to the scroll direction of the row or column are displayed. This block group is set as the re-update symbol display area, and control is performed to display the symbols again in the re-update symbol display area. Therefore, if the combination of symbols displayed in the symbol display area before re-updating is not a combination that gives a prize, the symbol combination displayed after re-updating is displayed by displaying the symbol again in the re-updating symbol display area. There is a possibility of a combination that gives a prize. Also, even if the combination of symbols displayed in the symbol display area before re-updating is a combination that gives a prize, by displaying the symbol again in the re-updating symbol display area, the dividend is higher than before re-updating There is a possibility of a combination that gives a prize. Therefore, by re-updating the symbols, the player can always feel the possibility of winning and the expectation for winning can be sufficiently increased.

  A method for controlling a gaming machine according to a fifteenth aspect of the present invention is the method for controlling a gaming machine according to the fourteenth aspect of the present invention, wherein the controller performs the identification data of special symbols in the step (c). If it is determined that the display is displayed, the method includes a step of randomly determining the number of times to execute the sub-game and a step of executing the number of times determined in steps (d) to (f).

  According to the method for controlling a gaming machine of the present invention described in claim 15, in the method for controlling a gaming machine of the present invention described in claim 14, when the special symbol is displayed, the scroll direction of the row or column is reversed. All blocks in the symbol display area that are continuous from the special symbol display block in the direction are set as the re-update symbol display area, and the number of times of executing the sub-game for displaying the symbol again in the re-update symbol display area is randomly determined. Take control. For this reason, if the number of times of executing the sub-game is determined to be large, the probability that the combination of symbols becomes a combination for giving a prize increases. Therefore, the player can raise a sense of expectation in the number of times the sub game is executed.

  A method for controlling a gaming machine according to a sixteenth aspect of the present invention is the method for controlling a gaming machine according to the fourteenth or fifteenth aspect of the present invention, wherein the controller performs a special operation in the step (c). If it is determined that the symbol identification data has been displayed, the first stage of executing the processes (d) to (f) and the next main process without executing the processes (d) to (f). And a step of randomly switching the second stage of executing the game.

  According to the method for controlling a gaming machine of the present invention described in claim 16, in the method for controlling a gaming machine of the present invention described in claim 14 or 15, scrolling of a row or a column when a special symbol is displayed. First processing for setting all blocks in the symbol display area connected from the special symbol display block in the direction opposite to the direction as a re-update symbol display area, and displaying the symbol again in the re-update symbol display area; Is controlled at random to switch to the second process in which the re-update symbol display area is not displayed again. For this reason, if the combination of symbols displayed in the symbol display area is not a combination that gives a prize, a combination that gives a prize by displaying a symbol again in the re-update symbol display area, and a re-update symbol display In some cases, the symbols are not displayed again in the area, and the combination is not awarding a prize. Therefore, the player can have a sense of expectation for displaying the symbol again in the re-update symbol display area.

  According to the gaming machine of the present invention, it is possible to provide a gaming machine in which a player can always feel the possibility of winning and the expectation for winning can be sufficiently increased.

FIG. 10 is a view illustrating a flowchart of game processing of the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4 is a view illustrating a function flow of the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention. 1 is a view illustrating a game system including a gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. 1 is a view illustrating an overall structure of a gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5 is a view illustrating a configuration of a symbol column of the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating an internal configuration of the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a view illustrating an example of displaying symbol combinations of the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a view illustrating a display example of symbols to be displayed in a symbol display area of the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a view illustrating a display example of symbols to be displayed in a symbol display area of the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a view illustrating a flowchart of main control processing of the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a view illustrating a flowchart of coin insertion / start check processing of the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a view illustrating a flowchart of jackpot-related processing for the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a view illustrating a flowchart of insurance-related processing for the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a view illustrating a flowchart of symbol lottery processing for the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a view illustrating a flowchart of symbol display control processing of the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a view illustrating a flowchart of a payout amount determination process of the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a view illustrating a flowchart of insurance check processing for the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a view illustrating a flowchart of bonus game processing for the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a view illustrating a flowchart of insurance selection processing for the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention; FIG. 30 is a view illustrating a symbol display example displayed in a symbol display region of the gaming machine according to another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 30 is a view illustrating a symbol display example displayed in a symbol display region of the gaming machine according to another embodiment of the present invention.

  Hereinafter, a gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. First, the characteristics of the game processing of this gaming machine will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 1 is a flowchart showing a subroutine of game processing according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  The gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention is a slot machine, and displays various symbols in a symbol display area composed of a symbol display block group composed of a plurality of rows and a plurality of columns, as shown in FIG. A side image display panel 141 (display), a RAM 73 (memory) for storing identification data of symbols including special symbols to be displayed in the symbol display area of the lower image display panel 141, and a main CPU 71 (controller) are provided.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the main CPU 71 reads out various symbol identification data to be displayed in the symbol display area of the lower image display panel 141 from the symbol identification data stored in the RAM 73, and reads them out. A main game for displaying symbols in the symbol display area of the lower image display panel 141 is executed (step S1, step S2).

  Then, the main CPU 71 determines whether or not to give the first prize according to the identification data of various symbols displayed in the symbol display area of the lower image display panel 141 in step S2. (Step S3). The first prize refers to a prize according to the number of consecutive identical symbols when the symbols corresponding to the symbol identification data are combinations of identical symbols that are consecutive in the vertical or horizontal direction.

  Then, when the main CPU 71 determines to give a first prize based on the determination result of step S3, the main CPU 71 gives a first prize according to the number of consecutive identical symbols (step S4). Then, the main CPU 71 determines whether or not special symbol identification data is displayed in the symbol display area of the lower image display panel 141 in step S2 (step S5). Here, the special symbol is used to set a symbol display block group adjacent to an explosion symbol including a special symbol (hereinafter referred to as an explosion symbol) as a re-update symbol display area, and display the symbol again in the set re-update symbol display area. Symbol.

  When the main CPU 71 determines that the identification data of the explosion symbol is displayed based on the determination result of step S5, the main CPU 71 sets the symbol display flock group adjacent to the explosion symbol including the explosion symbol as the re-update symbol display area. (Step S6).

  Then, the main CPU 71 hides the symbol by displaying the symbol displayed in the re-update symbol display area around the explosion symbol while holding the symbol displayed outside the re-update symbol display area. Then, identification data of various symbols displayed in the re-updated symbol display area is read from the RAM 73 (steps S7 and S8).

  Then, the main CPU 71 executes a sub game in which the identification data of various symbols read out in step S8 is displayed again in the re-update symbol display area (step S9). When the symbols are displayed again in the re-update symbol display area, the main CPU 71 displays symbols corresponding to the identification data of various symbols read out in step S8 from the symbol display block above the re-update symbol display area to the symbol display block below. To move to. That is, the main CPU 71 moves from the symbols displayed in the re-update symbol display area to the upper symbol display area, the middle symbol display area, and the lower symbol display area in order from the symbols displayed in the lower symbol display block. The symbol is displayed again by stopping.

  Then, the main CPU 71 determines whether or not to give the second prize (step S10). The second award is an award according to the number of consecutive identical symbols in the case of a combination of identical symbols in which symbols corresponding to the symbol identification data continue in the vertical direction or the horizontal direction as in the first prize. .

  If the main CPU 71 determines to give a second prize based on the determination result of step S10, the main CPU 71 gives a second prize according to the number of consecutive identical symbols (step S11).

  As described above, the symbol display area adjacent to the symbol display area displaying the explosion symbol is set as the re-update symbol display area, and the symbol displayed in the re-update symbol display area is displayed with the explosion symbol as the center. As a result, the symbol is hidden and the symbol is displayed again in the re-updated symbol display area. Therefore, if the combination of symbols displayed in the symbol display area before re-updating is not a combination that gives a prize, the symbol combination displayed after re-updating is displayed by displaying the symbol again in the re-updating symbol display area. There is a possibility of a combination that gives a prize.

  Also, even if the combination of symbols displayed in the symbol display area before re-updating is a combination that gives a prize, by displaying the symbol again in the re-updating symbol display area, the dividend is higher than before re-updating There is a possibility of a combination that gives a prize. Therefore, by re-updating the symbols, the player can always feel the possibility of winning and the expectation for winning can be sufficiently increased.

  Furthermore, by displaying the symbol displayed in the re-update symbol display area around the explosion symbol so as to explode, the expectation for the symbol displayed again in the re-update symbol display area is enhanced, and a new symbol display mode is provided. It becomes possible to provide.

[Explanation of function flow diagram]
This completes the description of the features of the game processing according to the embodiment of the present invention. Next, with reference to FIG. 2, the basic functions of the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described.

  FIG. 2 is a view illustrating a function flow of the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention.

<Coin insertion / start check>
First, the gaming machine checks whether or not the BET button has been pressed by the player, and subsequently checks whether or not the spin button has been pressed by the player.

<Symbol decision>
Next, when the spin button is pressed by the player, the gaming machine extracts a random number for symbol determination and stops scrolling the symbol row in accordance with each of the plurality of video reels displayed on the display. The symbol to be displayed to the player is determined.

  In addition, when an explosion symbol is displayed, a re-update that hides the symbol displayed in the re-update symbol display area composed of the symbol display block group adjacent to the explosion symbol including the explosion symbol and displays it in the re-update symbol display area A random number value for the symbol is extracted, and a symbol to be displayed in the re-update symbol display area is determined.

<Symbol display>
Next, the gaming machine starts scrolling the symbol column of each video reel, and executes a main game that stops scrolling so that the determined symbols are displayed to the player.

  In the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention, when the explosion symbol is displayed, the symbol displayed in the re-update symbol display area is displayed in the re-update symbol display area with the explosion symbol centered on the explosion symbol. A sub game is executed in which the symbols are hidden and the symbols to be displayed in the re-updated symbol display area are displayed again.

<Winning determination>
Next, when the gaming machine stops scrolling the symbol column of each video reel or displays the symbol again in the re-updated symbol display area, the gaming machine determines whether or not the combination of symbols displayed to the player is related to winning. judge.

  Here, the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention determines that the combination of symbols is related to winning when the symbols are combinations of the same symbols continuous in the vertical direction or the horizontal direction. In addition, when an explosion symbol is displayed, the symbol continues in the vertical direction or the horizontal direction even when the symbol displayed in the symbol display area including the re-updated symbol display area is a combination of symbols that are continuous in the vertical direction or the horizontal direction. It is determined that the combination is the same symbol.

<Payout>
Next, when the symbols displayed to the player are combinations of the same symbols that are continuous in the vertical direction or the horizontal direction, the gaming machine gives the player a privilege according to the number of the same continuous symbols.

  For example, when a combination of symbols related to payout of coins is displayed as a combination of the same symbols continuously in the vertical direction or the horizontal direction, the gaming machine pays out a coin corresponding to the number of symbols to the player.

  Further, the gaming machine starts the bonus game when displaying the symbol combination related to the bonus game trigger. In the embodiment of the present invention, as a bonus game, the lottery related to the determination of the symbols to be stopped and the number of symbol display blocks for moving the symbols displayed in the adjacent symbol display area are determined without consuming coins. A game (free game) in which lottery related to is performed a predetermined number of times is executed.

  Further, when the gaming machine displays the symbol combination related to the jackpot trigger, the gaming machine pays out the coin of the jackpot amount to the player. The jackpot accumulates a portion of the coins consumed by the player at each gaming machine as a jackpot amount. A function that pays out coins of the pot amount.

  The gaming machine calculates the amount (accumulated amount) accumulated in the jackpot amount for each game and transmits it to the external control device. The external control device accumulates the accumulated amount transmitted from each gaming machine into the jackpot amount.

  In addition to the above benefits, the gaming machine is provided with benefits such as a mystery bonus and insurance.

  In the mystery bonus, a predetermined amount of coins is paid out by winning a special lottery. When the spin button is pressed, the gaming machine extracts a random value for the mystery bonus and determines by lottery whether or not to establish the mystery bonus trigger.

  Insurance is a function provided for the purpose of relieving a player from a situation where a bonus game has not been played for a long period of time. In the embodiment of the present invention, it is possible for the player to arbitrarily select whether or not insurance is valid. When insurance is activated, it is exchanged for a predetermined amount of insurance.

  When insurance is validated, the gaming machine starts counting the number of games. Then, the gaming machine pays out coins of an amount set for insurance when the counted number of games reaches a predetermined number without paying out a large amount due to a bonus game or the like.

<Determination of production>
The gaming machine produces effects by displaying an image on a display, outputting light from a lamp, and outputting sound from a speaker. The gaming machine extracts a random number for production, and determines the content of the production based on the symbol determined by lottery.

[Overall game system]
This completes the description of the basic functions of the gaming machine. Next, a game system including a gaming machine will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 3 is a view illustrating a game system including the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  The game system 300 includes a plurality of gaming machines 1 and an external control device 200 connected to each gaming machine 1 via a communication line 301.

  The external control device 200 controls a plurality of gaming machines 1. In the present embodiment, the external control device 200 is a so-called hall server installed in a gaming facility having a plurality of gaming machines 1. Each gaming machine 1 is given a unique identification number, and the external control device 200 determines the origin of data sent from each gaming machine 1 based on the identification number. In addition, when transmitting data from the external control device 200 to the gaming machine 1, the transmission destination is specified using the identification number.

  Note that the game system 300 may be constructed in one gaming facility capable of performing various games, such as a casino, or may be constructed among a plurality of gaming facilities. Further, when the game system 300 is constructed within one game facility, the game system 300 may be constructed for each floor or section of the game facility. The communication line 301 may be wired or wireless, and a dedicated line or an exchange line can be employed.

[Overall structure of gaming machine]
This completes the description of the game system according to the embodiment of the present invention. Next, the overall structure of the gaming machine will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 4 is a view illustrating the overall configuration of the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  In the gaming machine 1, coins, bills, or electronic valuable information corresponding to these are used as game media. In the embodiment of the present invention, a ticket with a bar code described later is also used. Note that game media is not limited to these, and for example, medals, tokens, electronic money, and the like can be employed.

  The gaming machine 1 includes a cabinet 11, a top box 12 installed on the upper side of the cabinet 11, and a main door 13 provided on the front surface of the cabinet 11.

  A lower image display panel 141 is provided at the center of the main door 13. The lower image display panel 141 includes a liquid crystal panel and constitutes a display. The lower image display panel 141 has a symbol display area 4. The symbol display area 4 includes a symbol display block group including a plurality of rows and a plurality of columns, and displays five video reels 3 (3a, 3b, 3c, 3d, and 3e).

  In the embodiment of the present invention, the video reel expresses the rotation and stop operations of the mechanical reel with a plurality of symbols drawn on its peripheral surface by video. Each video reel 3 is assigned with a symbol string composed of a plurality of predetermined symbols (22 in the embodiment of the present invention) (see FIG. 5 described later).

  In the symbol display area 4, the symbol strings assigned to the respective video reels 3 are scrolled and stopped after a predetermined time. As a result, a part of each symbol row (three consecutive symbols in this embodiment) is displayed to the player.

  In the symbol display area 4, one symbol is displayed in each of the three areas of the upper stage, the center stage, and the lower stage according to each video reel 3. That is, in the symbol display area 4, symbols are displayed in 15 symbol display blocks of 5 columns × 3.

  In the embodiment of the present invention, when an explosion symbol is displayed in the symbol display area 4, a symbol display block group adjacent to the explosion symbol including the explosion symbol is set as a re-update symbol display area. Then, the symbols displayed in the re-update symbol display area are hidden by performing a display that explodes the symbols displayed in the re-update symbol display area with the explosion symbol as the center.

  When a symbol to be displayed in the re-update symbol display area that has been hidden is determined, the symbol is displayed in the re-update symbol display area by performing a display in which the determined symbol is moved from the upper symbol display block to the lower symbol display block. Display again.

  In the embodiment of the present invention, when the symbols displayed in the symbol display area 4 including the re-updated symbol display area are combinations of the same symbols that are continuous in the vertical direction or the horizontal direction, Awards are given according to the number of the same symbols (see FIG. 7 described later).

  In addition, although the specific aspect which gives a prize can be employ | adopted arbitrarily, for example, when it is the combination of the same symbol which continued in the vertical direction, the horizontal direction, or the diagonal direction, it shall employ | adopt as a combination which gives a prize. Can do.

  The lower image display panel 141 includes a credit amount display area 142 and a payout number display area 143. In the credit amount display area 142, the number of coins owned by the player and deposited in the gaming machine 1 (hereinafter, the number of credits) is displayed. The payout number display area 143 displays the number of coins to be paid out to the player when a winning is achieved (hereinafter, the number of payouts).

  The lower image display panel 141 includes a touch panel 114. The player can input various instructions by touching the lower image display panel 141.

  Below the lower image display panel 141, various buttons that are arranged on the control panel 30 and various devices to be operated by the player are arranged.

  The spin button 31 is used when starting to scroll the symbol column of each video reel 3. The change button 32 is used when requesting a change of money from an attendant of the game facility. The CASHOUT button 33 is used when paying out coins deposited in the gaming machine 1 to the coin tray 15.

  The 1-BET button 34 and the maximum BET button 35 are for determining the number of coins (hereinafter referred to as “BET number”) used in the game from the coins deposited in the gaming machine 1. The 1-BET button 34 is used when determining the BET number in units of one sheet. The maximum BET button 35 is used when the BET number is set to the specified upper limit number.

  The coin receiving slot 36 is provided for receiving coins. The bill validator 115 is provided for receiving bills. The banknote discriminator 115 sorts whether or not the banknote is appropriate, and accepts the appropriate banknote into the cabinet 11. Note that the bill validator 115 may be configured to be able to read a barcoded ticket 175 described later.

  An upper image display panel 131 is provided on the front surface of the top box 12. The upper image display panel 131 is a liquid crystal panel and constitutes a display. The upper image display panel 131 displays an image related to the effect, an image showing an introduction to the contents of the game, and an explanation of the rules. Further, the top box 12 is provided with a speaker 112 and a lamp 111. In the gaming machine 1, an effect is executed by displaying an image, outputting sound, and outputting light.

  Below the upper image display panel 131, a ticket printer 171, a card slot 176, a data display 174, and a keypad 173 are provided.

  The ticket printer 171 prints on a ticket a bar code in which data such as the number of credits, date and time, and an identification number of the gaming machine 1 are encoded, and outputs it as a ticket 175 with a bar code. A player can play a game by reading a ticket 175 with a barcode on a gaming machine, or can exchange the ticket 175 with a barcode with a bill or the like at a predetermined location in a gaming facility (for example, a cashier in a casino). .

  The card slot 176 is for inserting a card storing predetermined data. For example, the card stores data for identifying a player and data relating to a history of games played by the player.

  A card inserted into the card slot 176 reads and writes data by a card reader 172 described later. The card may store data corresponding to coins, bills or credits.

  The data display unit 174 includes a fluorescent display, an LED, and the like, and displays data read by the card reader 172 or data input by the player via the keypad 173, for example. The keypad 173 is for inputting instructions and data related to ticket issuance and the like.

[Video reel symbol column]
This completes the description of the overall structure of the gaming machine 1. Next, with reference to FIG. 5, the configuration of the symbol column included in the video reel 3 of the gaming machine 1 will be described.

  FIG. 5 is a view illustrating an arrangement of symbols drawn on the peripheral surface of the reel of the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  The first video reel 3a, the second video reel 3b, the third video reel 3c, the fourth video reel 3d and the fifth video reel 3e are respectively composed of 22 symbols corresponding to the code numbers “00” to “21”. A symbol string to be configured is assigned.

  Symbol types include “JACKPOT 7”, “BLUE 7”, “BELL”, “CHERRY”, “APPLE”, “PLUM”, “ORANGE”, and “explosion”.

  “Explosion” is an explosion symbol. When “Explosion” is displayed in the symbol display area 4, the symbol displayed in the re-update symbol display area is displayed to explode around the “explosion”, and the re-update symbol is displayed. This is the symbol that triggers the display of the symbol again in the area.

  The first video reel 3a, the second video reel 3b, the third video reel 3c, the fourth video reel 3d, and the fifth video reel 3e have a symbol row composed of a plurality of the same symbols in succession ( For example, the code numbers 05, 06, 07 of the first video reel 3a).

  As a result, when the symbols displayed in the symbol display area 4 are combinations of the same symbols continuous in the vertical direction or the horizontal direction, a prize according to the number of the same symbols can be awarded.

[Circuit configuration of the gaming machine]
This completes the description of the configuration of the symbol columns included in the video reel 3 of the gaming machine 1. Next, a configuration of a circuit included in the gaming machine 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating an internal configuration of the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  The gaming board 50 includes a CPU 51, a ROM 52 and a boot ROM 53, which are connected to each other via an internal bus, a card slot 55 corresponding to the memory card 54, and an IC socket 57 corresponding to a GAL (Generic Array Logic) 56.

  The memory card 54 is composed of a nonvolatile memory and stores a game program and a game system program. The game program includes a program related to game progression, a lottery program, a re-updated symbol lottery program, and a program for executing effects by images and sounds (for example, see FIGS. 10 to 19 described later). Further, the game program includes data (see FIG. 5) that defines the configuration of the symbol sequence assigned to each video reel 3.

  The lottery program is a program for determining a stop scheduled symbol of each video reel 3 by lottery. The scheduled stop symbol is data for determining three symbols to be displayed by the symbol display area 4 among the 22 symbols constituting the symbol row. In the gaming machine 1 according to the embodiment of the present invention, a symbol to be displayed in a predetermined region (for example, the upper region) among three regions corresponding to each video reel 3 in the symbol display region 4 is a symbol to be stopped. Determine as.

  The lottery program includes symbol determination data. According to each video reel 3, the symbol determination data is determined with an equal probability (that is, 1/22) for each of the 22 symbols (code numbers “00” to “21”) constituting the symbol row. In this way, it is data defining a random value.

  The probability that each of the 22 symbols is determined is basically equal. However, since the number of various symbols included in the 22 symbols is different, the probability that various symbols are determined is different (that is, a weight is generated). For example, referring to FIG. 5, the symbol sequence of the first video reel 3a includes one symbol “JACKPOT7”, but includes seven symbols “ORANGE”. Therefore, the former is determined with a probability of “1/22”, while the latter is determined with a probability of “7/22”.

  In the embodiment of the present invention, the data is defined so that the number of symbols constituting the symbol column of each video reel 3 is the same. However, the symbols constituting the symbol column according to each video reel 3 You may make it differ in the number of. For example, the symbol sequence of the first video reel 3a may be composed of 22 symbols, while the symbol sequence of the second video reel 3b may be composed of 30 symbols. This increases the degree of freedom in setting the probability that various symbols are determined for each video reel 3.

  The re-update symbol lottery program is a program for determining, by lottery, symbols to be displayed in the re-update symbol display area when an explosion symbol is displayed in the symbol display area 4. In the gaming machine 1 according to the embodiment of the present invention, when the symbol to be stopped includes an explosion symbol by the lottery program, the gaming machine 1 displays a symbol again for each symbol display block adjacent to the explosion symbol including the explosion symbol. To decide. That is, the number of symbols larger than the number of 15 symbol display blocks constituting the symbol display area 4 is determined.

  The card slot 55 is configured so that the memory card 54 can be inserted and removed, and is connected to the motherboard 70 via an IDE bus.

  The GAL 56 is a kind of PLD (Programmable Logic Device) having an OR fixed type array structure. The GAL 56 includes a plurality of input ports and output ports. When a predetermined input is input to the input port, the corresponding data is output from the output port.

  The IC socket 57 is configured so that the GAL 56 can be attached and detached, and is connected to the mother board 70 by a PCI bus. The contents of the game played in the gaming machine 1 can be changed by replacing the memory card 54 with another program written therein or rewriting the program written in the memory card 54 with another one. .

  The CPU 51, ROM 52, and boot ROM 53 connected to each other via an internal bus are connected to the motherboard 70 via a PCI bus. The PCI bus transmits signals between the motherboard 70 and the gaming board 50 and supplies power from the motherboard 70 to the gaming board 50.

  The ROM 52 stores an authentication program. The boot ROM 53 stores a preliminary authentication program and a program (boot code) for the CPU 51 to start the preliminary authentication program.

  The authentication program is a program (tamper check program) for authenticating the game program and the game system program. The preliminary authentication program is a program for authenticating the authentication program. The authentication program and the preliminary authentication program are described along a procedure (authentication procedure) for authenticating that the target program has not been tampered with.

  The motherboard 70 includes a main CPU 71, a ROM 72, a RAM 73, and a communication interface 82.

  The ROM 72 includes a memory device such as a flash memory, and stores a program such as a BIOS executed by the main CPU 71 and permanent data. When the BIOS is executed by the main CPU 71, initialization processing of predetermined peripheral devices is performed. In addition, a process for taking in the game program and the game system program stored in the memory card 54 is started via the gaming board 50.

  The RAM 73 stores data and programs used when the main CPU 71 operates. For example, when the above-described game program, game system program, and authentication program are loaded, these can be stored. Therefore, the RAM 73 stores symbol identification data including special symbols to be displayed in the symbol display area 4 of the lower image display panel 141 by performing a process of taking in symbol identification data stored in the memory card 54. .

  The RAM 73 is provided with a work area for executing the program. For example, an area for storing the number of games, the number of BETs, the number of payouts, the number of credits, an area for storing symbols (code numbers, symbol identification data) determined by lottery, and the like are provided.

  The gaming machine 1 according to the embodiment of the present invention stores, in the storage area of the RAM 73, symbol identification data to be displayed in the re-update symbol display area when an explosion symbol is included in the symbol to be stopped by the lottery program. To do. In other words, as the symbol identification data to be displayed in each symbol display block, a larger number of symbol identification data than the number of 15 symbol display blocks constituting the symbol display area 4 is stored in the storage area of the RAM 73.

  The communication interface 82 is for communicating with the external control device 200 such as a server via the communication line 301. Also, a door PCB (Printed Circuit Board) 90 and a main body PCB 110, which will be described later, are connected to the motherboard 70 by USB. Further, a power supply unit 81 is connected to the motherboard 70.

  When power is supplied from the power supply unit 81 to the motherboard 70, the main CPU 71 of the motherboard 70 is activated, and power is supplied to the gaming board 50 via the PCI bus to activate the CPU 51.

  Input devices such as switches and sensors and peripheral devices whose operations are controlled by the main CPU 71 are connected to the door PCB 90 and the main body PCB 110.

  A control panel 30, a reverter 91, a coin counter 92C, and a cold cathode tube 93 are connected to the door PCB 90.

  The control panel 30 is provided with a spin switch 31S, a change switch 32S, a CASHOUT switch 33S, a 1-BET switch 34S, and a maximum BET switch 35S corresponding to the above-described buttons. Each switch detects that the corresponding button has been pressed by the player, and outputs a signal to the main CPU 71.

  The coin counter 92C determines whether or not the coins inserted into the coin receiving slot 36 are appropriate in material and shape, and outputs a signal to the main CPU 71 when an appropriate coin is detected. Inappropriate coins are discharged from the coin payout exit 15A.

  The reverter 91 operates based on a control signal output from the main CPU 71, and distributes appropriate coins selected by the coin counter 92C to a hopper 113 or a cash box (not shown). When the hopper 113 is not filled with coins, it is distributed to the hopper 113, and when the hopper 113 is filled with coins, it is distributed to the cash box.

  The cold cathode tube 93 functions as a backlight installed on the back side of the upper image display panel 131 and the lower image display panel 141, and lights up based on a control signal output from the main CPU 71.

  Connected to the main body PCB 110 are a lamp 111, a speaker 112, a hopper 113, a coin detection unit 113S, a touch panel 114, a bill validator 115, a graphic board 130, a ticket printer 171, a card reader 172, a key switch 173S, and a data display 174. ing.

  The lamp 111 is lit based on a control signal output from the main CPU 71. The speaker 112 outputs a sound such as BGM based on a control signal output from the main CPU 71.

  The hopper 113 operates based on a control signal output from the main CPU 71, and pays out a designated payout number of coins from the coin payout exit 15 </ b> A to the coin tray 15. The coin detection unit 113 </ b> S detects coins paid out by the hopper 113 and outputs a signal to the main CPU 71.

  The touch panel 114 detects a position touched by a player's finger or the like on the lower image display panel, and outputs a signal corresponding to the detected position to the main CPU 71. When the banknote discriminator 115 receives an appropriate banknote, it outputs a signal corresponding to the amount of the banknote to the main CPU 71.

  The graphic board 130 controls display of images performed by each of the upper image display panel 131 and the lower image display panel 141 based on a control signal output from the main CPU 71. In the symbol display area 4 of the lower image display panel 141, five video reels 3 are displayed, and the operation of scrolling and stopping the symbol columns of each video reel 3 is displayed. When it is determined to display the explosion symbol in the symbol display area 4, an operation for moving the symbol displayed in the re-updated symbol display area from the upper symbol display block to the lower symbol display block is displayed.

  The graphic board 130 includes a VDP that generates image data, a video RAM that stores image data generated by the VDP, and the like. The credit amount display area 142 of the lower image display panel 141 displays the credit amount stored in the RAM 73. In the payout number display area 143 of the lower image display panel 141, the payout of coins is displayed.

  The graphic board 130 also includes a VDP (Video Display Processor) that generates image data based on a control signal output from the main CPU 71, a video RAM that temporarily stores image data generated by the VDP, and the like. Yes.

  Further, the video RAM is provided with a storage area for storing explosion image data for performing an effect of exploding the symbol displayed as the re-updated symbol.

  Note that the image data used when generating image data by VDP is included in the game program read from the memory card 54 and stored in the RAM 73.

  Based on the control signal output from the main CPU 71, the ticket printer 171 prints on the ticket a bar code in which data such as the number of credits, date and time, and identification number of the gaming machine 1 stored in the RAM 73 is encoded. Output as a ticket 175 with code.

  The card reader 172 reads the data stored in the card inserted in the card slot 176 and transmits it to the main CPU 71 or writes data based on a control signal from the main CPU 71.

  The key switch 173S is provided on the keypad 173, and outputs a predetermined signal to the main CPU 71 when the keypad 173 is operated by the player.

  The data display 174 displays data read by the card reader 172 and data input by the player via the keypad 173 based on a control signal output from the main CPU 71.

[Example of displaying symbol combinations]
This completes the description of the circuit configuration of the gaming machine 1. Next, symbol combinations will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 7A is a view illustrating an example in which the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention displays two consecutive combinations of the same symbols. FIG. 7B is a view illustrating an example in which the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention displays four consecutive combinations of the same symbols.

  As shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B, the gaming machine 1 according to the embodiment of the present invention has a symbol display area 4 including a symbol display block group including a plurality of rows and a plurality of columns. A winning is established when the displayed symbols are combinations of the same symbols continuous in the vertical or horizontal direction. In the embodiment of the present invention, the symbol display block of the symbol display area 4 in which a winning is established is defined as a winning symbol display area 160. Then, according to the number of the same symbols displayed in the winning symbol display area 160, a privilege such as paying out coins or starting a bonus game is given to the player. Note that if the symbols displayed in the symbol display area 4 are not combinations of the same symbols continuous in the vertical direction or the horizontal direction, the winning is not established (so-called loss).

  Basically, “JACKPOT 7”, “BLUE 7”, “BELL”, “CHERRY”, “APPLE”, “PLUM” and “ORANGE” symbols displayed in the symbol display area 4 by the respective video reels 3 are vertically arranged. In the case of a combination of the same symbols consecutive in the direction or the horizontal direction, a winning is established.

  In the example shown in FIG. 7A, since the symbol “CHERRY” is displayed in a combination of two consecutive symbols in the vertical direction, the symbol display area 4 in which two “CHERRY” symbols are displayed in the vertical direction is displayed. This symbol display block is defined as a winning symbol display area 160. In this case, the winning combination is “CHERRY”, and the number of payouts is determined based on the combination of two “CHERRY” displayed in the winning symbol display area 160.

  In the example shown in FIG. 7B, since “CHERRY” symbols are displayed in a combination of two symbols in the vertical direction and three in the horizontal direction, four “CHERRY” symbols are displayed in succession. The symbol display block of the symbol display area 4 is defined as a winning symbol display area 160. In this case, the number of payouts is determined based on the combination of “CHERRY” displayed in the winning symbol display area 160.

  Then, coins are paid out based on the determined payout number. The coin is paid out by actually discharging the coin from the coin payout exit 15A, adding to the number of credits, or issuing a bar code ticket.

  “JACKPOT 7” is a symbol related to the jackpot trigger. When all the video reels 3 display the symbol “JACKPOT 7” as a combination of five consecutive symbols in the vertical or horizontal direction, the winning combination is “jackpot” and the jackpot amount is determined as the number of payouts. The

  “APPLE” is a symbol related to the bonus game trigger. When all the video reels 3 display the symbol “APPLE” as a combination of five consecutive symbols in the vertical or horizontal direction, the winning combination is “bonus game” and the bonus game is started from the next game. .

[Symbol display example of symbol display area]
This completes the description of the symbol combination table. Next, with reference to FIGS. 8 and 9, a display example of symbols displayed in the symbol display area 4 of the gaming machine 1 will be described.

  FIG. 8A shows a display example when an explosion symbol is displayed in the symbol display area 4. FIG. 8B is a display example when the symbols displayed in the re-update symbol display area are hidden.

  As shown in FIG. 8A, symbols are displayed in accordance with each video reel 3 in a symbol display area 4 composed of a rectangular symbol display block group composed of a plurality of rows and a plurality of columns. When the explosion symbol 161 is displayed in the symbol display area 4, the display brightness of the symbol display area 4 of the lower image display panel 141 is adjusted, and all or part of the symbol display block displaying the explosion symbol 161 has a relatively high brightness. To display. Here, a display example in the case where the frame surrounding the explosion symbol 161 is displayed with high luminance is shown. As shown in FIG. 5A, the explosion symbol 161 is highlighted and displayed by displaying a frame 162a surrounding the explosion symbol 161 with high luminance.

  In addition, since the symbol display area 4 displays a combination of two “BLUE 7” symbols in the vertical direction and two in the horizontal direction, the symbol display in which three “BLUE 7” symbols are displayed in succession. The symbol display block in the area 4 is defined as a winning symbol display area 160. In this case, the winning combination is “BLUE 7”, and the number of payouts is determined based on the combination of “BLUE 7” displayed in the winning symbol display area 160.

  As shown in FIG. 8B, when the symbol display block group adjacent to the explosion symbol 161 including the explosion symbol 161 is set as the re-update symbol display area 164, the symbols displayed outside the re-update symbol display area 164 are retained. In the state, the symbols displayed in the re-update symbol display area 164 are hidden. Here, a display example in a case where the symbol displayed in the re-update symbol display area 164 is displayed so as to explode around the explosion symbol 161 is shown. As shown in FIG. 5B, when the re-update symbol display area 164 is set, the display brightness of the symbol display area 4 of the lower image display panel 141 is adjusted, and all or part of the re-update symbol display area 164 is adjusted. Display with relatively high brightness. In the example of FIG. 8B, it is emphasized that the symbol displayed in the re-update symbol display area 164 is re-updated by displaying the frame 162b having a different color scheme from the frame 162a displayed in FIG. 8A. To display. By emphasizing the re-update symbol display area 164, it is possible to notify the player which symbol display block is re-updated.

  In addition, the symbols displayed in the re-update symbol display area 164 are displayed so as to explode around the explosion symbol 161, so that the symbols displayed in the re-update symbol display area 164 are not displayed. By displaying the symbols displayed in the re-update symbol display area 164 so as to explode, the player can increase the expectation for the symbols displayed again in the re-update symbol display area 164, and a new symbol display mode Is possible.

  FIG. 9A shows a display example when the symbol displayed in the re-update symbol is moved after the symbol displayed in the re-update symbol display area 164 is not displayed. FIG. 9B is a display example when symbols are stopped in a predetermined combination after the symbols displayed in the re-update symbol display area 164 are moved.

  As shown in FIG. 9A, after the symbol displayed in the re-update symbol display area 164 is hidden, the symbol displayed in the re-update symbol display area 164 is the symbol display above the re-update symbol display area 164. Move from the block to the lower symbol display block. As shown in FIG. 6A, symbols displayed in the re-update symbol display area 164 are the upper symbol display area, the middle symbol display area, and the lower symbol display area in order from the symbols displayed in the lower symbol display block. Move to.

  In the example shown in FIG. 9B, after the movement of the symbol displayed in the re-updated symbol display area 164 stops, two symbols “BLUE 7” are displayed in the symbol display area 4 in the vertical direction and in the horizontal direction. Since the symbols are displayed in a combination of five consecutive symbols, the symbol display block in the symbol display area 4 in which six “BLUE 7” symbols are displayed in succession is defined as the winning symbol display area 160. In this case, the winning combination is “BLUE 7”, and the number of payouts is determined based on the combination of “BLUE 7” displayed in the winning symbol display area 160.

  When the winning symbol display area 160 is defined after the movement of the symbol displayed in the re-updated symbol display area is stopped, the display brightness of the symbol display area 4 of the lower image display panel 141 is adjusted, and the winning symbol display area 160 is displayed. In order to display all or part of the frame with relatively high luminance, the winning symbol display area 160 is highlighted and displayed by displaying the frame 162c having a different color scheme from the frames 162a and 162b. By highlighting and displaying the winning symbol display area 160, it is possible for the player to increase the expectation for winning.

  As described above, when the symbols displayed in the symbol display area 4 are combinations of the same symbols continuous in the vertical direction or the horizontal direction, a winning is determined. (See FIG. 8 (a)). However, when the explosion symbol 161 is displayed, the symbol displayed in the re-updated symbol display area 164 is hidden by a display that causes the symbol to explode (see FIG. 8B).

  Then, the symbol displayed in the reupdate symbol display area 164 moves from the symbol display block above the reupdate symbol display area 164 to the symbol display block below (see FIG. 9A), and the moved symbol is stopped. Thus, the symbol is displayed again in the re-updated symbol display area 164. By displaying the symbols again, there is a possibility that more symbols stop at a combination of symbols that are continuous in the vertical direction or the horizontal direction than before the symbols are displayed again (see FIG. 9B). That is, there is a possibility that winning with a high payout is established by updating the symbol displayed in the re-update symbol display area 164, and the player can increase the expectation that the symbol will be re-updated.

[Program contents]
This completes the description of the display examples of the symbols displayed in the symbol display area 4 of the gaming machine 1. Next, a program executed by the gaming machine 1 will be described with reference to FIGS.

<Main control processing>
First, the main control process will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 10 is a view illustrating a flowchart of the main control processing of the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  First, when the gaming machine 1 is powered on, the main CPU 71 reads out the authenticated game program and game system program from the memory card 54 via the gaming board 50 and writes them in the RAM 73 (step S11).

  Next, the main CPU 71 performs an initialization process at the end of one game (step S12). For example, unnecessary data for each game is cleared in the work area of the RAM 73, such as the number of BETs and symbols determined by lottery.

  Next, the main CPU 71 performs a coin insertion / start check process which will be described later with reference to FIG. 11 (step S13). In this process, input of a BET switch or a spin switch is checked.

  Next, the main CPU 71 performs symbol lottery processing which will be described later with reference to FIG. 14 (step S14). In this process, the symbols to be displayed again in the stop scheduled symbol and re-update symbol display area 164 are determined based on the symbol determination random number value.

  Next, the main CPU 71 performs a mystery bonus lottery process (step S15). In this process, lottery is performed to determine whether to establish a mystery bonus trigger. For example, the main CPU 71 extracts a mystery bonus random value from a range of “0 to 99”, and establishes a mystery bonus trigger when the extracted random value is “0”.

  Next, the main CPU 71 performs effect content determination processing (step S16). The main CPU 71 extracts a random number for production, and determines any of a plurality of predetermined production contents by lottery.

  Next, the main CPU 71 performs a symbol display control process which will be described later with reference to FIG. 15 (step S17). In this process, scrolling of the symbol row of each video reel 3 is started, and the scheduled stop symbol determined in the symbol lottery process in step S14 is stopped at a predetermined position (for example, the upper area in the symbol display area 4). Run the game. That is, three symbols including the symbols to be stopped are displayed in the symbol display area 4. For example, if the symbol to be stopped is a symbol with a code number “10” and is displayed in the upper area, the symbols with the code numbers “11” and “12” are displayed in the upper stage in the symbol display area 4. Displayed in the middle and bottom.

  Next, the main CPU 71 performs a payout amount determination process which will be described later with reference to FIG. 16 (step S18). In this process, when the symbols displayed in the symbol display area 4 are combinations of the same symbols continuous in the vertical direction or the horizontal direction, the payout number is determined based on the number of the same symbols, and the payout number provided in the RAM 73 Store in the storage area.

  When the identification data of the explosion symbol 161 is displayed in the symbol display area 4, the symbol display block group adjacent to the explosion symbol 161 including the explosion symbol 161 is set as the re-update symbol display area 164, and the re-update symbol display area 164. A sub-game for reading out identification data of various symbols to be displayed and displaying it again is continued from the main game and executed.

  In this case, the main CPU 71 may be configured to randomly determine the number of times to execute the sub game and to execute the determined number of sub games. In addition, the identification data of various symbols to be displayed in the re-update symbol display area 164 is read at random times in a state where the area set as the re-update symbol display area 164 is held, and the determined number of symbols is displayed. The game may be continued from the main game and executed.

  Then, when the symbols displayed in the symbol display area 4 including the re-update symbol display area 164 are combinations of the same symbols continuous in the vertical direction or the horizontal direction, the main CPU 71 determines the number of payouts based on the number of the same symbols It is determined and stored in a payout amount storage area provided in the RAM 73.

  Next, the main CPU 71 determines whether or not a bonus game trigger has been established (step S19). When the main CPU 71 determines that a bonus game trigger has been established (step S19: YES), the main CPU 71 performs a bonus game process which will be described later with reference to FIG. 18 (step S20).

  Next, the main CPU 71 determines whether or not a mystery bonus trigger is established after the process of step S20 or when it is determined in step S19 that a bonus game trigger is not established (step S19: NO) (step S19: NO). Step S21). When the main CPU 71 determines that a mystery bonus trigger has been established (step S21: YES), the main CPU 71 performs a mystery bonus process (step S22). In this process, the number of payouts set for the mystery bonus (for example, 300) is stored in the payout amount storage area provided in the RAM 73.

  After the process of step S22 or when determining that the mystery bonus trigger has not been established in step S21 (step S21: NO), the main CPU 71 performs an insurance check process described later with reference to FIG. Step S23). In this process, it is checked whether or not to pay out by insurance.

  Next, the main CPU 71 conducts payout processing (step S24). The main CPU 71 adds the value stored in the payout amount storage area to the value stored in the credit number storage area provided in the RAM 73. The driving of the hopper 113 may be controlled based on the input of the CASHOUT switch 33S, and coins corresponding to the values stored in the payout number storage area may be discharged from the coin payout exit 15A. Alternatively, the ticket printer 171 may be controlled to issue a barcoded ticket in which the value stored in the payout amount storage area is recorded. After this process is performed, the process proceeds to step S12.

<Coin insertion / start check process>
Next, a coin insertion / start check process will be described with reference to FIG.
FIG. 11 is a view illustrating a flowchart of coin-insertion / start-check processing for the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  First, the main CPU 71 determines whether or not coin insertion has been detected by the coin counter 92C (step S41). When the main CPU 71 determines that coin insertion has been detected (step S41: YES), the main CPU 71 adds the value stored in the credit amount storage area (step S42). In addition to the insertion of coins, it is determined whether or not the insertion of banknotes has been detected by the banknote discriminator 115. When it is determined that the insertion of banknotes has been detected, the value corresponding to the banknotes is stored in the credit number storage area. You may make it add to the stored value.

  The main CPU 71 determines whether or not the value stored in the credit amount storage area is 0 after step S42 or when it is determined in step S41 that coin insertion has not been detected (step S41: NO). Determination is made (step S43). When the main CPU 71 determines that the value stored in the credit amount storage area is not 0 (step S43: NO), the main CPU 71 permits operation acceptance of the BET button (step S44).

  Next, the main CPU 71 determines whether or not an operation of the BET button has been detected (step S45). When the main CPU 71 detects that the BET button has been pressed by the player using the BET switch (step S45: YES), the main CPU 71 stores it in the BET number storage area provided in the RAM 73 based on the type of the BET button. The value stored in the credit number storage area is subtracted (step S46).

  Next, the main CPU 71 determines whether or not the value stored in the BET number storage area is the maximum (step S47). When the main CPU 71 determines that the value stored in the BET number storage area is the maximum (step S47: YES), the main CPU 71 prohibits updating of the value stored in the BET number storage area (step S48). After determining that the value stored in the BET number storage area is not the maximum after step S48 or at step S47 (step S47: NO), the main CPU 71 permits the operation reception of the spin button (step S49). .

  The main CPU 71 determines that the operation of the BET button is not detected in step S45 after step S49 (step S45: NO), or the value stored in the credit number storage area in step S43 is 0. Is determined (step S43: YES), it is determined whether or not an operation of the spin button is detected (step S50). When the main CPU 71 determines that the operation of the spin button is not detected (step S50: NO), the main CPU 71 proceeds to step S41.

  When the main CPU 71 determines that the operation of the spin button has been detected (step S51: YES), the main CPU 71 performs jackpot-related processing which will be described later with reference to FIG. 12 (step S51). In this process, the amount accumulated in the jackpot amount is calculated and transmitted to the external control device 200.

  Next, the main CPU 71 performs insurance-related processing which will be described later with reference to FIG. 13 (step S52). In this process, the number of games that triggers payout by insurance is counted. When this process is performed, the coin insertion / start check process is terminated.

<Jackpot-related processing>
Next, jackpot-related processing will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 12 is a view illustrating a flowchart of the jackpot-related processing for the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  First, the main CPU 71 calculates an accumulated amount (step S71). The main CPU 71 obtains the product of the value stored in the BET number storage area and a preset cumulative ratio, and calculates the cumulative amount to the jackpot amount.

  Next, the main CPU 71 transmits the calculated accumulated amount to the external control device 200 (step S72). When receiving the accumulated amount, the external control device 200 updates the jackpot amount. When this process is performed, the jackpot-related process is terminated.

<Insurance-related processing>
Next, insurance-related processing will be described with reference to FIG.
FIG. 13 is a view illustrating a flowchart of insurance-related processing for the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  First, the main CPU 71 determines whether or not the insurance effective flag is on (step S91). The insurance effective flag is set to ON when an instruction to enable insurance is input by the player in the insurance selection processing described later with reference to FIG.

  When the main CPU 71 determines that the insurance-effective flag is not on (step S91: NO), the insurance-related processing ends. On the other hand, when the main CPU 71 determines that the insurance-effective flag is on (step S91: YES), the main CPU 71 updates the value stored in the insurance game frequency storage area provided in the RAM 73 (step S92). . The insurance game number storage area is an area for storing the number of games until the payout by insurance is performed. In the process of step S92, the main CPU 71 adds 1 to the value stored in the insurance game frequency storage area. When this process is performed, the insurance-related process is terminated.

<Symbol lottery processing>
Next, the symbol lottery process will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 14 is a view illustrating a flowchart of symbol lottery processing for the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  First, the main CPU 71 extracts random numbers for symbol determination (step S111). Next, the main CPU 71 determines to-be stopped symbols for each video reel 3 by lottery (step S112). The main CPU 71 performs lottery according to each video reel 3, and determines any of the 22 symbols (code numbers “00” to “21”) as the scheduled stop symbols. At this time, each of the 22 symbols (code numbers “00” to “21”) is determined with an equal probability (that is, 1/22).

  Next, the main CPU 71 determines whether or not an explosion symbol is included in a predetermined area of the scheduled stop symbol determined in step S112 (step S113). For example, when the symbol to be displayed in the upper area is determined to be a stop scheduled symbol, it is determined whether or not an explosion symbol is included in the three areas including the upper area.

  When the main CPU 71 determines that an explosion symbol is included (step S113: YES), the main CPU 71 extracts a re-update symbol determination random number value to be displayed again in the re-update symbol display area 164 (step S114). Next, the main CPU 71 determines a re-update symbol (step S115). The re-update symbol may be determined by lottery according to the video reel 3 corresponding to the re-update symbol display area 164. Further, a re-update symbol may be determined by lottery for each symbol display block constituting the re-update symbol display area 164.

  Next, after determining that the explosion symbol is not included after step S115 or in step S113 (step S113: NO), the main CPU 71 determines the identification data of the determined to-be-stopped symbol of each video reel 3 and the re-execution symbol. The updated symbol identification data is stored in the symbol storage area provided in the RAM 73 (step S116).

  Next, the main CPU 71 refers to a symbol combination table that defines combinations of the same symbols in which symbols are continuous in the vertical direction or the horizontal direction and winning combinations corresponding to the number of the same symbols, and based on the symbol storage area, Is determined (step S117). The main CPU 71 determines whether or not the combination of symbols displayed in the symbol display area 4 matches the combination of symbols defined in the symbol combination table, and determines a winning combination. When this process is performed, the symbol lottery process is terminated.

<Symbol display control processing>
Next, the symbol display control process will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 15 is a view illustrating a flowchart of the symbol display control processing for the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  First, the main CPU 71 starts scrolling the symbol column of the video reel 3, and reads out symbol identification data to be displayed in the symbol display area 4 of the lower image display panel 141 from the symbol storage area provided in the RAM 73 (step). S131).

  Next, the main CPU 71 displays symbols in the symbol display area 4 by stopping the scrolling of the symbol columns of each video reel 3 based on the above-described symbol storage area (step S132). In this case, by stopping scrolling in order from the first video reel 3a on the left of each video reel 3, the player can combine the same symbols in which the symbol combinations displayed in the symbol display area 4 are continuous in the vertical direction or the horizontal direction. It becomes possible to feel the possibility of becoming.

  Next, the main CPU 71 determines whether or not the identification data of the explosion symbol 161 is displayed in the symbol display area 4 of the lower image display panel 141 (step S133). Specifically, the main CPU 71 determines whether or not the identification data of the explosion symbol 161 is displayed in any of the symbol display block groups in the symbol display area 4 (see FIG. 8A).

  When the main CPU 71 determines that the identification data of the explosion symbol 161 is not displayed (step S133: NO), the symbol display control process ends. On the other hand, when it is determined that the identification data of the explosion symbol 161 is displayed (step S133: YES), the main CPU 71 performs a sub game display start process (step S134). Specifically, the main CPU 71 samples a random value from predetermined random values by executing a program stored in the RAM 43, and determines the number of sub games determined based on the sampled random number. An effect image corresponding to the start time is displayed on the upper image display panel 131.

  Next, the main CPU 71 displays a re-update symbol display area 164 (step S135). Specifically, the main CPU 71 displays the re-update symbol display area 164 in which the symbol display block group adjacent to the explosion symbol 161 including the explosion symbol 161 is set as the re-update symbol display area 164 in an identifiable manner (FIG. 8 ( b)).

  Further, when the re-update symbol display area 164 is set, the main CPU 71 may determine a plurality of symbol display block groups from the symbol display block group that displays the symbols again and set them as the re-update symbol display area.

  When a plurality of symbol display block groups are to be determined, if it is internally determined that symbols to be displayed in the symbol display area 4 including the re-update symbol display area 164 are stopped in a combination that gives a prize, the determination is performed. The random number range is set so that the number of symbol display blocks to be increased or the random number range is set so that the number of symbol display blocks to be determined is reduced. You may comprise so that a number may be determined. Accordingly, it is possible to notify that there is a high possibility that the symbol is re-updated with a combination that gives a prize to the player.

  Next, the main CPU 71 holds the symbols displayed outside the re-update symbol display area 164 (step S136). That is, the main CPU 71 continues displaying the symbols displayed in the symbol display area 4 other than the re-update symbol display area 164 until the predetermined time has elapsed after displaying the symbols again in the re-update symbol display area 164. Then, the main CPU 71 reads out the explosion image data, and displays an effect image that explodes the symbols displayed in the re-update display area 164 (step S137). By displaying an explosive effect image (see FIG. 8B), an effect is performed in which the symbols displayed in the re-update symbol display area 164 are blown away. As a result, the symbols displayed in the re-update symbol display area 164 are not displayed.

  Next, the main CPU 71 reads out symbol identification data to be displayed in the re-update symbol display area (step S138). Then, the main CPU 71 displays the symbols again in the re-update symbol display area 164 (step S139). Specifically, the main CPU 71 reads the renewal symbol identification data stored in the storage area of the RAM 73 in step S116 of FIG. 14, and displays the symbol corresponding to the read identification data above the renewal symbol display area 164. The movement is controlled from the symbol display block to the symbol display block below. That is, the main CPU 71 moves from the symbols displayed in the re-update symbol display area 164 to the upper symbol display area, the middle symbol display area, and the lower symbol display area in order from the symbols displayed in the lower symbol display block. Then, the symbols are displayed again by stopping (see FIGS. 9A and 9B).

  Next, the main CPU 71 determines whether or not the number of sub games is 0 (step S140). Specifically, the main CPU 71 determines whether or not the number of remaining sub games stored in the data storage area indicating the number of remaining free games provided in the RAM 73 is zero. When the main CPU 71 determines that the number of sub games is not 0 (step S140: NO), the main CPU 71 subtracts 1 from the remaining number of sub games. Then, the sub game number subtracted is displayed on the upper image display panel 131, and the process proceeds to step S135.

  On the other hand, when the main CPU 71 determines that the number of sub games is 0 (step S140: YES), the main CPU 71 performs a sub game display end process (step S141). Specifically, the main CPU 71 displays an effect image corresponding to the end of the sub game on the upper image display panel 131. When this process is performed, the symbol display control process is terminated.

  In the embodiment of the present invention, when the main CPU 71 determines in step S133 that the explosion symbol identification data has been displayed, the main CPU 71 extracts a re-update random number value and executes the processing from step S134 to step S141. You may comprise so that the process of this and the 2nd process which performs the next main game may be switched at random, without performing the process from step S134 to step S141.

  In this case, when the cumulative value of the jackpot amount is large, the random number range is set so that the probability of executing the first process is high, and when the cumulative value of the jackpot amount is small, the second processing is performed. The main CPU 71 is configured to extract the random number value and determine the first process or the second process by setting the random number range so that the probability of executing the game is high, thereby continuing the game for a long time. It is possible to increase the probability of winning a prize for a player who is present.

<Payout number determination process>
Next, the payout amount determination process will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 16 is a view illustrating a flowchart of the payout amount determination processing for the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  First, the main CPU 71 determines whether or not the winning combination is a jackpot (step S151). When determining that the winning combination is not a jackpot (step S151: NO), the main CPU 71 determines whether or not the first prize or the second prize has been determined (step S152). The first prize is a prize determined when the symbol identification data displayed in the symbol display area 4 is a combination of the same symbols continuous in the vertical direction or the horizontal direction in step S132 of FIG. Further, if the symbols displayed in the symbol display area 4 are not combinations of the same symbols continuous in the vertical direction or the horizontal direction, it is lost.

  The second prize is a combination of the same symbols in which the symbol identification data displayed in the symbol display area 4 including the re-update symbol display area 164 in the step S139 in FIG. It is a prize to be decided on.

  When determining that the first prize or the second prize has not been determined (step S152: NO), the main CPU 71 ends the payout amount determination process. On the other hand, when the main CPU 71 determines that the first prize or the second prize has been determined (step S152: YES), the main CPU 71 determines the number of payouts corresponding to the first prize or the second prize (step S153). ). For example, in step S132 of FIG. 15, two symbols “BLUE 7” corresponding to the symbol identification data displayed in the symbol display area 4 are displayed in succession in the vertical direction and three in the horizontal direction. The winning combination is “BLUE 7”, and “BLUE 7” determines the number of payouts corresponding to the first prize based on the three combinations (see FIG. 8A).

  Further, in step S139 of FIG. 15, the symbol corresponding to the symbol identification data displayed in the symbol display area 4 including the re-update symbol display area 164 has two “BLUE 7” symbols in the vertical direction and in the horizontal direction. When five are displayed in succession, the winning combination is “BLUE 7”, and the “BLUE 7” symbol determines the number of payouts corresponding to the second prize based on the six combinations (see FIG. 9B). .

  Next, the main CPU 71 stores the determined number of payouts in the payout number storage area (step S154). When this process is performed, the payout number determination process is terminated.

  On the other hand, when the main CPU 71 determines in step S151 that the winning combination is a jackpot (step S151: YES), the main CPU 71 notifies the external control device 200 that the jackpot has been won (step S155). When receiving the notification, the external control device 200 transmits the jackpot amount that has been updated so far to the gaming machine 1. At this time, a part of the jackpot amount (for example, 80%) may be paid out, and the remaining part (for example, 20%) may be carried over in preparation for the next jackpot trigger establishment.

  Next, the main CPU 71 receives the amount of jackpot from the external control device 200 (step S156). Next, the main CPU 71 stores the received jackpot amount in the payout amount storage area (step S157). When this process is performed, the payout number determination process is terminated.

<Insurance check processing>
Next, the insurance check process will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 17 is a view illustrating a flowchart of insurance check processing for the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  First, the main CPU 71 determines whether or not the insurance effective flag is on (step S171). When the main CPU 71 determines that the insurance-effective flag is not on (step S171: NO), the main CPU 71 ends the insurance-check process.

  When the main CPU 71 determines that the insurance-effective flag is on (step S171: YES), the main CPU 71 determines whether or not a predetermined winning combination has been established (step S172). In the embodiment of the present invention, “bonus game trigger”, “jackpot”, and “mystery bonus” are targeted as predetermined winning combinations.

  When the main CPU 71 determines that a predetermined winning combination has not been established (step S172: NO), the main CPU 71 determines whether or not the value stored in the insurance game number storage area has reached a predetermined number (for example, 300). Determination is made (step S173). When the main CPU 71 determines that the value stored in the insurance game count storage area has not reached the predetermined count (step S173: NO), the main CPU 71 ends the insurance check process.

  When the main CPU 71 determines that the value stored in the insurance game number storage area has reached the predetermined number (step S173: YES), the main CPU 71 performs payout processing based on the insurance amount (step S174). The main CPU 71 adds a predetermined amount (for example, 200) as the insurance amount to the value stored in the credit amount storage area.

  The main CPU 71 resets the value stored in the insurance game frequency storage area after step S174 or when it is determined in step S172 that a predetermined winning combination has been established (step S172: YES) (step S175). . Next, the main CPU 71 turns off the insurance effective flag (step S176). When this process is performed, the insurance check process is terminated.

<Bonus game processing>
Next, the bonus game process will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 18 is a view illustrating a flowchart of the bonus game processing for the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  First, the main CPU 71 determines the number of bonus games (step S191). The main CPU 71 extracts a random number for determining the number of bonus games, and determines one of a plurality of types of bonus games such as “50”, “70”, and “100” by lottery.

  Next, the main CPU 71 stores the determined bonus game number in a bonus game number storage area provided in the RAM 73 (step S192).

  Next, the main CPU 71 performs an initialization process at the end of one game, similarly to the process of step S12 described with reference to FIG. 10 (step S193). Next, the main CPU 71 performs the symbol lottery process described with reference to FIG. 14 (step S194). Next, the main CPU 71 performs an effect content determination process in the same manner as the process of step S16 described with reference to FIG. 10 (step S195). Next, the main CPU 71 performs the symbol display control process described with reference to FIG. 15 (step S196). Next, the main CPU 71 performs a payout amount determination process described with reference to FIG. 16 (step S197).

  Next, the main CPU 71 determines whether or not a bonus game trigger has been established (step S198). When determining that the bonus game trigger has been established (step S198: YES), the main CPU 71 determines the number of bonus games to be added (step S199). The number of bonus games is determined in the same manner as in step S191 described above. Next, the main CPU 71 adds the determined number of bonus games to the value stored in the bonus game number storage area (step S200).

  The main CPU 71 performs a payout process (step S201) after the process of step S200 or when it is determined in step S198 that a bonus game trigger has not been established (step S198: NO). In this payout process, the main CPU 71 adds the value stored in the payout number storage area in the payout number determination process in step S197 described above to the value stored in the bonus payout number storage area. The bonus payout amount storage area is an area for storing the total number of payouts determined during the bonus game.

  When the bonus game process is completed, the main CPU 71 determines the number of credits provided in the RAM 73 as the value stored in the bonus payout number storage area in the payout process in step S24 described with reference to FIG. Add to the value stored in the storage area. That is, the total number of payouts determined in the bonus game is paid out collectively. Note that coins may be discharged from the coin payout exit 15A, or a ticket with a barcode may be issued.

  Next, the main CPU 71 subtracts 1 from the value stored in the bonus game number storage area (step S202). Next, the main CPU 71 determines whether or not the value stored in the bonus game number storage area is 0 (step S203). When the main CPU 71 determines that the value stored in the bonus game number storage area is not 0 (step S203: NO), the main CPU 71 proceeds to the process of step S193. On the other hand, when it is determined that the value stored in the bonus game number storage area is 0 (step S203: YES), the bonus game process is terminated. When the bonus game process ends, the process proceeds to the process of step S21 described with reference to FIG.

<Insurance selection process>
Next, insurance selection processing will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 19 is a view illustrating a flowchart of insurance selection processing for the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  First, the main CPU 71 determines whether or not the insurance effective flag is on (step S221). When the main CPU 71 determines that the insurance-effective flag is not on (step S221: NO), the main CPU 71 displays an insurance-ineffective image (step S222). The main CPU 71 transmits a command to display the insurance invalid image to the graphic board 130. Based on the command, the graphic board 130 generates an insurance invalid image and displays it on the lower image display panel 141.

  As the insurance invalid image, for example, an image indicating “INSURANCE BET $ 1.00 TOUCH TO BET” is displayed. This image is an image for prompting the player to select whether or not to activate insurance and notifying the player of the amount necessary to activate insurance. The player can input an instruction to activate insurance by touching a predetermined location on the touch panel 114.

  Subsequently, the main CPU 71 determines whether or not there is an insurance-effective instruction input (step S223). When the main CPU 71 determines that there is no insurance effective instruction input (step S223: NO), the main CPU 71 proceeds to step S221 while keeping the insurance effective flag off. On the other hand, when the main CPU 71 determines that there is an insurance effective instruction input (step S223: YES), the main CPU 71 turns on the insurance effective flag (step S224).

  Next, the main CPU 71 subtracts the insurance participation value from the value stored in the credit amount storage area (step S225). In the present embodiment, for example, a value corresponding to 1 dollar is subtracted from the value stored in the credit amount storage area. The main CPU 71 displays an insurance-effective image after step S225 or when it is determined in step S221 that the insurance-effective flag is on (step S221: YES) (step S226).

  As the insurance effective image, for example, an image indicating “INSURANCE CONTINUED WIN 200 CREDIT” is displayed. This image informs the player that the insurance is valid and that the value of “200” is added to the value stored in the credit number storage area when the insurance condition is satisfied. When this process is performed, the process proceeds to step S221.

  As described above, when displaying the explosion symbol 161 in the symbol display area 4, the main CPU 71 sets the symbol display block group adjacent to the explosion symbol 161 including the explosion symbol 161 as the re-update symbol display area 164, and displays the re-update symbol display. Control is performed to execute a sub-game in which the symbol identification data to be displayed in the area 164 is read from the RAM 73 and displayed again. Therefore, by re-updating the symbols displayed in the re-updated symbol display area 164, it is possible to provide a gaming machine in which the player can always feel the possibility of winning and the expectation for winning can be sufficiently increased. it can.

  Thus, in the gaming machine 1 according to the embodiment of the present invention, the symbol display area 4 adjacent to the explosion symbol 161 is set as the re-update symbol display area 164, and the symbol is displayed again in the re-update symbol display area 164. . For this reason, when the combination of symbols displayed in the symbol display area 4 before re-updating is not a combination that gives a prize, by displaying the symbol again in the re-updated symbol display area 164, the symbol displayed after the re-updating is displayed. There is a possibility that the combination is a combination that gives a prize. Also, even if the combination of symbols displayed in the symbol display area 4 before re-updating is a combination that gives a prize, by displaying the symbol again in the re-updating symbol display area 164, it is possible to pay a dividend more than before re-updating. There is a possibility of a combination that gives a high prize. Therefore, by re-updating the symbols, the player can always feel the possibility of winning and the expectation for winning can be sufficiently increased.

  In the gaming machine 1 according to the embodiment of the present invention, the symbols displayed in the updated symbol display area 164 are controlled to move from the upper symbol display block to the lower symbol display block. For this reason, depending on which symbol display block the symbol displayed in the re-update symbol display area 164 moves to, there is a possibility that the combination of symbols is a combination that gives a prize. Therefore, the player can see the movement of the symbols with an increased expectation for winning.

  Further, the gaming machine 1 according to the embodiment of the present invention can be configured to determine a plurality of symbol display block groups from the symbol display block group for redisplaying symbols and set them as the re-update symbol display area 164. It is. In the case of such a configuration, the probability that the combination of symbols is a combination for giving a prize varies depending on the determined re-updated symbol display area 164. Therefore, the player can raise a sense of expectation in determining the re-update symbol display area 164.

  Further, the gaming machine 1 according to the embodiment of the present invention can be configured to randomly determine the number of times to execute the sub-game for displaying symbols again in the re-update symbol display area 164. In such a configuration, if the number of times of executing the sub game is determined to be large, the probability that the combination of symbols becomes a combination for giving a prize increases. Therefore, the player can raise a sense of expectation in the number of times the sub game is executed.

  Further, in the gaming machine 1 according to the embodiment of the present invention, when the explosion symbol 161 is displayed, the first process of setting the re-update symbol display area 164 and displaying the symbol again in the re-update symbol display area 164, and the symbol Can be configured to randomly switch to the second process that is not displayed again in the re-update symbol display area 164. In such a configuration, the combination of symbols displayed in the symbol display area 4 gives a prize. If the combination is not a combination, a symbol is given again by displaying the symbol again in the re-update symbol display area 164, and a combination in which a symbol is not displayed again in the re-update symbol display area 164 and a prize is given. There may be no. Therefore, the player can have a sense of expectation for displaying the symbol again in the re-update symbol display area 164.

  Next, a gaming machine according to another embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. 20 and 21 illustrate a display example of symbols displayed in the symbol display area 4 of the gaming machine 1 according to another embodiment of the present invention.

  In another embodiment of the present invention, the symbol display area 4 is composed of a symbol display block group composed of a plurality of rows and a plurality of columns, and when the main game is started, the symbol display block group is composed of a plurality of rows or a plurality of columns. In addition, a symbol band in which a plurality of symbols are continuous is individually scroll-displayed for each row or column in the row direction or the column direction. When the identification data of the explosion symbol 161 is displayed in the symbol display area 4, all the block groups in the symbol display area 4 connected from the display block of the explosion symbol 161 in the direction opposite to the scroll direction of the row or column are displayed as renewed symbols. Set as area 164.

  FIG. 20A is a display example when an explosion symbol is displayed in the symbol display area 4. FIG. 20B is a display example when the symbols displayed in the re-update symbol display area are hidden. In addition, since it is substantially the same as embodiment of this invention except the example of a display demonstrated with the following figures, description is abbreviate | omitted here.

  As shown in FIG. 20A, when the main game is started, a symbol band in which a plurality of symbols are connected to a group of symbol display blocks of a plurality of rows or a plurality of columns is arranged for each row or column in the row direction or the column direction. After the individual scroll display, the symbols are displayed in the symbol display area 4. When the explosion symbol 161 is displayed in the symbol display area 4, the display brightness of the symbol display area 4 of the lower image display panel 141 is adjusted, and all or part of the symbol display block displaying the explosion symbol 161 has a relatively high brightness. To display. Here, a display example in which a frame surrounding the symbol display block displaying the explosion symbol 161 is displayed with high luminance. As shown in FIG. 6A, the explosion symbol 161 is highlighted and displayed by displaying a frame 162a surrounding the symbol display block displaying the explosion symbol 161 with high luminance.

  In addition, since the symbol display area 4 displays a combination of two symbols “BLUE 7” in the vertical direction and three symbols in the horizontal direction, the symbol display in which four “BLUE 7” symbols are displayed in succession. The symbol display block in the area 4 is defined as a winning symbol display area 160. In this case, the winning combination is “BLUE 7”, and the number of payouts is determined based on the combination of “BLUE 7” displayed in the winning symbol display area 160.

  As shown in FIG. 8B, the symbol display block group adjacent to the explosion symbol 161 including the explosion symbol 161 is set as the re-update symbol display area 164.

  In another embodiment of the present invention, all the block groups in the symbol display area 4 connected from the display block of the explosion symbol 161 in the direction opposite to the scroll direction of the row or column are set as the re-update symbol display area 164. For example, when a symbol is scrolled from the upper symbol display area 4 to the lower symbol display area 4 and then stopped, the symbol display block connected in the direction opposite to the scroll direction is set as the re-updated symbol display area 164. .

  In the example of FIG. 20A, since the symbol is scrolled from the upper symbol display area 4 to the lower symbol display area 4, the explosion symbol 161 is displayed in the middle stage of the video reel 3b. A symbol display block continuing from the display block of the explosion symbol 161 is a symbol display block displaying “explosion” and “PLUM”. That is, as shown in FIG. 20B, the symbol display block displaying the explosion symbol 161 and the symbol display block above the symbol display block displaying the explosion symbol 161 are set as the re-update symbol display area 164.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 20B, the symbols displayed in the re-update symbol display area 164 are hidden while the symbols displayed in the area other than the re-update symbol display area 164 are held. Here, a display example in the case of performing a display that explodes the symbols displayed in the re-update symbol display area 164 is shown. As shown in FIG. 5B, when the re-update symbol display area 164 is set, the display brightness of the symbol display area 4 of the lower image display panel 141 is adjusted, and all or part of the re-update symbol display area 164 is adjusted. Display with relatively high brightness. In the example of FIG. 20B, it is emphasized that the symbol displayed in the re-update symbol display area 164 is re-updated by displaying the frame 162b having a different color scheme from the frame 162a displayed in FIG. To display. By emphasizing the re-update symbol display area 164, it is possible to notify the player which symbol display block is re-updated.

  Further, the symbols displayed in the re-update symbol display area 164 are hidden by displaying the “explosion” and “PLUM” symbols displayed in the re-update symbol display area 164 so as to explode. By displaying the symbols displayed in the re-update symbol display area 164 so as to explode, the player can increase the expectation for the symbols displayed again in the re-update symbol display area 164, and a new symbol display mode Is possible.

  FIG. 21A shows a display example when the symbol displayed in the re-update symbol is moved after the symbol displayed in the re-update symbol display area 164 is not displayed. FIG. 21B is a display example when symbols are stopped in a predetermined combination after the symbols displayed in the re-update symbol display area 164 are moved.

  As shown in FIG. 21A, after the symbol displayed in the re-update symbol display area 164 is hidden, the symbol displayed in the re-update symbol display area 164 is the symbol display above the re-update symbol display area 164. Move from the block to the lower symbol display block.

  In the example shown in FIG. 21A, it has been decided to display “BELL” in the symbol display block displaying “BLUE 7” and “PLUM” in the symbol display block displaying “explosion”. Therefore, it moves downward from the upper symbol display block in the order of “BLUE 7” and “BELL”.

  Further, the main CPU 71 of the gaming machine 1 determines a symbol to be displayed in the symbol display area 4 by a lottery program, and if the determined symbol includes the explosion symbol 161, the symbol to be displayed in the re-update symbol display area 164 is displayed. It is determined and stored in the storage area of the RAM 73. In other words, as the symbol identification data to be displayed in each symbol display block, a larger number of symbol identification data than the number of 15 symbol display blocks constituting the symbol display area 4 is stored in the storage area of the RAM 73.

  For example, in the example shown in FIG. 20A, since the main CPU 71 has decided to display the explosion symbol 161 in the middle stage of the video reel 3d in the symbol display area 4, two symbol display block groups are displayed as re-updated symbols. The area 164 is set (see FIG. 20B). Then, in addition to the 15 symbols displayed in the symbol display area 4, two symbols to be displayed in the re-update symbol display area 164 are determined and stored in the storage area of the RAM 73.

  In the example shown in FIG. 21B, the main CPU 71 in the re-update symbol display area 164 displays the symbol with the code number “18” and the symbol with “PLUM” in the symbol display block displaying “explosion”. Since it is decided to display the symbol of the code number “19” in the display block (see FIG. 5) and stored in the storage area of the RAM 73, the re-update symbol display area 164 includes “BLUE 7” and “BELL”. Display symbols.

  In the example shown in FIG. 21B, after the movement of the symbol displayed in the re-updated symbol display area 164 stops, two symbols “BLUE 7” are displayed in the symbol display area 4 in the vertical direction and in the horizontal direction. Since a combination of four consecutive symbols is displayed, a symbol display block in the symbol display area 4 in which five “BLUE 7” symbols are displayed consecutively is defined as a winning symbol display area 160. In this case, the winning combination is “BLUE 7”, and the number of payouts is determined based on the combination of five “BLUE 7” displayed in the winning symbol display area 160.

  When the winning symbol display area 160 is defined after the movement of the symbol displayed in the re-updated symbol display area is stopped, the display brightness of the symbol display area 4 of the lower image display panel 141 is adjusted, and the winning symbol display area 160 is displayed. In order to display all or part of the frame with relatively high luminance, the winning symbol display area 160 is highlighted and displayed by displaying the frame 162c having a different color scheme from the frames 162a and 162b. By highlighting and displaying the winning symbol display area 160, it is possible for the player to increase the expectation for winning.

  As described above, when the symbols displayed in the symbol display area 4 are combinations of the same symbols continuous in the vertical direction or the horizontal direction, a winning is determined. (See FIG. 20 (a)). When the explosion symbol 161 is displayed, all the block groups in the symbol display area 4 continuing from the display block of the explosion symbol 161 in the direction opposite to the scroll direction of the row or column are set as the re-update symbol display area 164. Then, the symbols displayed in the re-updated symbol display area 164 are not displayed by the display that the symbols explode (see FIG. 20B).

  Then, the symbol displayed in the re-update symbol display area 164 moves from the symbol display block above the re-update symbol display area 164 to the symbol display block below (see FIG. 21A), and the moved symbol is stopped. Thus, the symbol is displayed again in the re-updated symbol display area 164. By displaying the symbols again, there is a possibility that a larger number of symbols may stop at a combination of symbols that are continuous in the vertical direction or the horizontal direction than before the symbols are displayed again (see FIG. 21B). That is, there is a possibility that winning with a high payout is established by updating the symbol displayed in the re-update symbol display area 164, and the player can increase the expectation that the symbol will be re-updated.

  As described above, when the main CPU 71 displays the identification data of the explosion symbol 161 in the symbol display area 4 composed of the symbol display block group of a plurality of rows and columns, the direction opposite to the scroll direction of the rows or columns is displayed. All the block groups in the symbol display area continuing from the display block of the explosion symbol 161 are set as the re-update symbol display area 164. When it is determined to display the explosion symbol 161 in the symbol display area 4, the symbol to be displayed in the re-update symbol display area 164 is determined, and the symbol to be displayed in the symbol display area 4 and the re-update symbol display area 164 are displayed. The symbols to be displayed again are stored in the symbol storage area of the RAM 73.

  In this way, in the gaming machine 1 according to another embodiment of the present invention, when the explosion symbol 161 is displayed, the symbol display area 4 connected from the display block of the explosion symbol 161 in the direction opposite to the scroll direction of the row or column. All the block groups are set as the re-update symbol display area 164, and the symbols are displayed again in the re-update symbol display area 164. For this reason, when the combination of symbols displayed in the symbol display area 4 before re-updating is not a combination that gives a prize, by displaying the symbol again in the re-updated symbol display area 164, the symbol displayed after the re-updating is displayed. There is a possibility that the combination is a combination that gives a prize. Even if the combination of symbols displayed in the symbol display area 164 before re-updating is a combination that gives a prize, by displaying the symbol again in the re-updating symbol display area 164, it is possible to pay a dividend more than before re-updating. There is a possibility of a combination that gives a high prize. Therefore, by re-updating the symbols, the player can always feel the possibility of winning and the expectation for winning can be sufficiently increased.

  The gaming machine and the gaming machine control method according to the present invention have been described above based on the illustrated embodiment. However, the present invention is merely illustrated and is not intended to limit the present invention. The configuration can be changed as appropriate. The effects described in the embodiments of the present invention are only the most preferable effects resulting from the present invention, and the effects of the present invention are limited to those described in the embodiments of the present invention. is not.

  For example, in the above-described embodiment, when the cumulative value of the jackpot amount is large, the random number range is set so that the probability of executing the first process of displaying the symbol again in the re-update symbol display area 164 is increased. In the case where the cumulative value of the jackpot amount is small, the case where the random number range is set so that the probability of executing the second process of not displaying the symbol again in the re-update symbol display area 164 has been described. However, the design can be changed.

  For example, when the main game is played a predetermined number of times without a bonus game being played, the random number range may be set so that the probability of executing the first process is increased. In this case, it can be set for the purpose of relieving the player from a situation where the bonus game has not been played for a long time. Further, when insurance is enabled, the random number range may be set so that the probability of executing the first process is high.

  The present invention is extremely useful for sufficiently enhancing the sense of expectation for winning by constantly feeling the possibility that a player will win a game executed on a slot machine.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Gaming machine 3 Video reel 4 Symbol display area 11 Cabinet 12 Top box 13 Main door 15 Coin tray 30 Control panel 31 Spin button 32 Change button 33 CASHOUT button 34 1-BET button 35 Maximum BET button 36 Coin entrance 50 Gaming board 51 CPU
52 ROM
53 Boot ROM
54 Memory card 55 Card slot 56 GAL
57 IC socket 70 Motherboard 71 Main CPU
72 ROM
73 RAM
81 Power supply unit 82 Communication interface 90 Door PCB
91 Reverter 92 Coin Counter 93 Cold Cathode Tube 110 Main Body PCB
111 Lamp 112 Speaker 113 Hopper 114 Touch Panel 115 Banknote Discriminator 130 Graphic Board 131 Upper Image Display Panel 141 Lower Image Display Panel 142 Credit Number Display Area 142
143 Payout display area 171 Ticket printer 172 Card reader 174 Data display 173 Keypad 174 Data display 175 Ticket with bar code 176 Card slot 160 Winning symbol display area 161 Explosion symbol 162 Frame 164 Re-update symbol display area

Claims (16)

A display having a symbol display area constituted by a symbol display block group consisting of a plurality of rows and a plurality of columns;
A memory for storing symbol identification data including special symbols to be displayed in the symbol display area of the display;
A gaming machine comprising: a controller that executes the following processes (a) to (f):
(A) executing a main game for reading and displaying identification data of various symbols to be displayed in the symbol display area of the display from the memory;
(B) In the process of (a), it is determined whether to give a first prize according to identification data of various symbols displayed in the symbol display area,
(C) determining whether the identification data of the special symbol is displayed in the symbol display area;
(D) When it is determined that the identification data of the special symbol is displayed as a result of the determination in (c), a symbol display block group adjacent to the special symbol including the special symbol is set as a re-update symbol display area. ,
(E) A sub game that reads out identification data of various symbols to be displayed in the re-update symbol display area from the memory and displays it again from the main game in a state where the symbols displayed outside the re-update symbol display area are held Run continuously,
(F) In the process of (e), it is determined whether to give a second prize according to the symbol identification data displayed in the symbol display area including the re-updated symbol display area. The controller further includes:
In the process of (e), the movement of the symbol corresponding to the symbol identification data read from the memory is controlled from the symbol display block above the re-update symbol display area to the symbol display block below. The gaming machine according to claim 1. The controller further includes:
3. The process of (d), wherein a plurality of symbol display block groups are determined from the symbol display block group for displaying symbols again and set as a re-updated symbol display area. The described gaming machine. The controller further includes:
In the process of (c), when it is determined that the identification data of the special symbol is displayed, the number of times of executing the sub game is randomly determined,
The gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the processes (d) to (f) are executed a determined number of times. The controller further includes:
When it is determined in the process (c) that the identification data of the special symbol is displayed,
A first process for executing the processes (d) to (f);
The process according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the second process of executing the next main game is randomly switched without executing the processes of (d) to (f). Gaming machine. It has a symbol display area composed of a symbol display block group consisting of a plurality of rows and a plurality of columns, and when the main game is started, a symbol band where a plurality of symbols are linked to a symbol display block group of a plurality of rows or columns A display that individually scrolls and displays each row or column in the row direction or column direction;
A memory for storing symbol identification data including special symbols to be displayed in the symbol display area of the display;
A gaming machine comprising: a controller that executes the following processes (a) to (f):
(A) executing a main game for reading and displaying identification data of various symbols to be displayed in each symbol display area of the display from the memory;
(B) In the process of (a), it is determined whether to give a first prize according to identification data of various symbols displayed in the symbol display area,
(C) determining whether the identification data of the special symbol is displayed in the symbol display area;
(D) If it is determined that the identification data of the special symbol is displayed as a result of the determination in (c), the symbol display area that is continuous from the display block of the special symbol in a direction opposite to the scroll direction of the row or column. Set all the block groups in as re-update symbol display area,
(E) A sub game for displaying again the symbols to be displayed in the re-update symbol display area is continued from the main game in a state where the symbols displayed other than the re-update symbol display area are held, and executed.
(F) In the process of (e), it is determined whether to give a second prize according to the symbol identification data displayed in the symbol display area including the re-updated symbol display area. The controller further includes:
In the process of (c), when it is determined that the identification data of the special symbol is displayed, the number of times of executing the sub game is randomly determined,
The gaming machine according to claim 6, wherein the processes (d) to (f) are executed a determined number of times. The controller further includes:
When it is determined in the process (c) that the identification data of the special symbol is displayed,
A first process for executing the processes (d) to (f);
8. The gaming machine according to claim 6, wherein the second process of executing the next main game is randomly switched without executing the processes of (d) to (f). 9. A method for controlling a gaming machine including a controller,
(A) executing a main game for reading and displaying identification data of various symbols to be displayed in the symbol display area of the display from the memory;
(B) determining whether to give a first prize according to identification data of various symbols displayed in the symbol display area in the step (a);
(C) determining whether special symbol identification data is displayed in the symbol display area;
(D) If it is determined that the identification data of the special symbol is displayed as a result of the determination in (c), a symbol display block group adjacent to the special symbol including the special symbol is set as a re-update symbol display area. Stages,
(E) A sub game that reads out identification data of various symbols to be displayed in the re-update symbol display area from the memory and displays it again from the main game in a state where the symbols displayed outside the re-update symbol display area are held A continuous execution stage,
(F) determining whether to give a second prize according to the identification data of the symbols displayed in the symbol display area including the re-update symbol display area in the step (e);
A method for controlling a gaming machine, comprising: In the step (e), the controller controls the movement of the symbol corresponding to the symbol identification data read from the memory from the upper symbol display block to the lower symbol display block in the re-update symbol display area. Stages,
The gaming machine control method according to claim 9, further comprising: The controller, in the step (d), determining a plurality of symbol display block groups from the symbol display block group for displaying symbols again and setting as a re-updated symbol display area;
The method for controlling a gaming machine according to claim 9 or 10, characterized by comprising: A step of randomly determining the number of times to execute the sub-game when the controller determines in the step (c) that the identification data of the special symbol is displayed;
Performing the steps (d) to (f) a determined number of times;
12. The gaming machine control method according to claim 9, further comprising: When the controller determines that the identification data of the special symbol is displayed in the process (c),
A first process for executing the steps (d) to (f);
A step of randomly switching the second process of executing the next main game without executing the steps (d) to (f);
The gaming machine control method according to claim 9, further comprising: A method for controlling a gaming machine including a controller,
(A) executing a main game for reading and displaying identification data of various symbols to be displayed in each symbol display area of the display from the memory;
(B) determining whether to give a first prize according to identification data of various symbols displayed in the symbol display area in the step (a);
(C) determining whether special symbol identification data is displayed in the symbol display area;
(D) If it is determined that the identification data of the special symbol is displayed as a result of the determination in (c), the symbol display area that is continuous from the display block of the special symbol in a direction opposite to the scroll direction of the row or column. A step of setting all the block groups in as a re-update symbol display area;
(E) executing a sub game in which the symbols to be displayed in the re-update symbol display area are displayed again from the main game in a state where the symbols displayed other than the re-update symbol display area are held;
(F) In the process of (e), determining whether to give a second prize according to symbol identification data displayed in the symbol display area including the re-update symbol display area;
A method for controlling a gaming machine, comprising: A step of randomly determining the number of times to execute the sub-game when the controller determines in the step (c) that the identification data of the special symbol is displayed;
Performing the steps (d) to (f) a determined number of times;
15. The gaming machine control method according to claim 14, further comprising: When the controller determines that the identification data of the special symbol is displayed in the step (c),
A first process for executing the steps (d) to (f);
A step of randomly switching the second process of executing the next main game without executing the steps (d) to (f);
16. The gaming machine control method according to claim 14 or claim 15, further comprising:

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