JP2013126598A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a player with expectation for a jackpot even in a concealed variable probability game state.SOLUTION: The game machine executes a lottery for determining one shift mode at predetermined timing by using a shift mode lottery table which defines probabilities of entering modes indicating probabilities of changes of performance modes on a display screen. The game machine uses the shift mode lottery table which defines different probabilities of entering the modes depending on whether the game is in the concealed variable probability game state or in a regular game state. The game machine executes a lottery for determining a new performance mode at the probability in the shift mode selected in a first lottery process, by using a mode lottery table which defines probabilities of entering the respective performance modes.

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine in which a plurality of effect modes for effects performed on a display screen are provided and effects are performed using these effect modes.

  Conventionally, when a game ball launched into the game area of the game board enters a specific start winning opening, three rows of symbols (for example, symbols of numbers 1 to 12) displayed on the display unit move from top to bottom. A game machine is widely used in which, when the same or related symbols are displayed on a certain line (active line), a big win is opened and a big win game is made.

  In such a gaming machine, for example, there are those that can take two gaming states, a normal gaming state and a high probability state (probability gaming state) in which the probability of winning a jackpot than the normal gaming state is increased. is there. In recent years, even in the probability variation gaming state, in order to eliminate the boredom in the probability variation gaming state, gaming machines that have been hidden without notifying the player that the probability variation gaming state has been widely used ( For example, see the following Patent Document 1.)

JP 2004-65388 A

  However, in the above prior art, even if it is in the probability variation gaming state, it is not notified, so even if the probability variation gaming state at the corner is in the corner, the player may not be able to determine that it is in the probability variation gaming state. there were. In such a case, the player's sense of expectation for the jackpot cannot be maintained despite being in a probabilistic gaming state, and a player who has been bored due to lack of performance may quit the game.

  The present invention provides a gaming machine that can increase the player's expectation for a big hit while concealing without clearly indicating that it is in a probabilistic gaming state in order to eliminate the above-described problems caused by the prior art. With the goal.

  In order to solve the above-described problems and achieve the object, the gaming machine according to the present invention performs a special game by a determination unit that determines whether or not a special game advantageous to a player is performed, and the determination unit. If it is determined that, at a predetermined setting timing, setting means for setting an effect mode on the display screen, which is one of the first effect mode, the second effect mode, and the third effect mode; A game effect control means for performing a game effect according to the effect mode set by the setting means, and another effect at a predetermined transition occurrence timing when a predetermined effect mode is set by the setting means. Lottery means for performing lottery for determining the production mode to be transferred using the transfer destination lottery table that determines the transition probability to the mode, The determining means sets an effect mode according to the lottery result by the lottery means, and the lottery means is in a high-probability gaming state in which it is determined by the determining means that the special game is to be performed with high probability, A lottery is performed using a transition lottery table having different transition probabilities to other production modes in the case of a low-probability gaming state in which it is determined that the special game is performed with a low probability by the determination means. To do.

  Also, in the above invention, the lottery means is the first production mode having a high expectation level in the high probability gaming state, and the expectation degree in the high probability gaming state is lower than the first production mode. The production mode is set to any one of the second production mode and the third production mode in which the degree of expectation in the high probability gaming state is lower than that of the second production mode. When the second production mode is set and the game state is the high-probability gaming state, the transition probability to the first production mode is higher than the transition probability to the third production mode. A lottery is performed using a high transfer destination lottery table.

  In the above invention, the lottery means shifts to the first effect mode when the second effect mode is set by the setting means and is in the low probability gaming state. A lottery is performed using a destination lottery table having a higher transition probability to the third performance mode than the probability.

  According to the above configuration, the occurrence probability of changing the effect mode can be varied according to the gaming state, and the current gaming state in the gaming machine can be suggested to the player by the occurrence probability. That is, according to the above configuration, whether or not the player is in the latent probability changing game state in which the probability changing game state is hidden is determined by the indirect effect using the change of the effect mode instead of the content of the effect mode. Can suggest.

  According to the present invention, since the player can be informed of the current gaming state in the gaming machine by switching the effect mode, the player's latent probability changing game even in the latent probability varying gaming state in which the probability varying gaming state is not notified. The expectation for the state, that is, the expectation for the next jackpot can be increased and the expectation can be maintained, so that the game can be enjoyed without boring the player who plays for a long time. .

It is explanatory drawing (the 1) which shows the basic composition of the game machine of embodiment concerning this invention. It is explanatory drawing (the 2) which shows the basic composition of the game machine of embodiment concerning this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the internal structure of the control part of a game machine. It is explanatory drawing which shows the game state which the game machine of this Embodiment can take. It is a block diagram which shows the functional structure of the game machine of embodiment concerning this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the outline | summary of the production mode of the gaming machine of this embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the process sequence of the game machine of embodiment concerning this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the transfer mode lottery table used by the transfer mode lottery of embodiment concerning this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the generation | occurrence | production probability of the stage transition effect in each transition mode. It is explanatory drawing (the 1) which shows the content of the transfer destination lottery table. It is explanatory drawing (the 2) which shows the content of the transfer destination lottery table. It is explanatory drawing (the 3) which shows the content of the transfer destination lottery table. It is explanatory drawing which shows the relationship between the state of the stage transition effect in the game machine of embodiment concerning this invention, and the expectation degree with respect to a high probability state. It is explanatory drawing (the 1) which shows the specific example of an effect which the game machine of this embodiment performs. It is explanatory drawing (the 2) which shows the specific example of an effect which the game machine of this embodiment performs. It is explanatory drawing (the 3) which shows the specific example of an effect which the game machine of this embodiment performs. It is explanatory drawing (the 4) which shows the specific example of an effect which the gaming machine of this embodiment performs. It is explanatory drawing (the 5) which shows the specific example of an effect which the gaming machine of this embodiment performs. It is explanatory drawing (the 6) which shows the specific example of an effect which the game machine of this embodiment performs. It is explanatory drawing (the 7) which shows the specific example of an effect which the game machine of this embodiment performs.

  Exemplary embodiments of a gaming machine according to the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

(Basic configuration of gaming machine)
1 and 2 are explanatory views showing the basic configuration of the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 1, the state which looked at an example of the game machine of embodiment concerning this invention from the front is shown. FIG. 2 shows a state in which a part of the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention is disassembled and viewed from an oblique direction.

  1 and 2, the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention includes a game board 101. At a lower position of the game board 101, a launching unit (see reference numeral 392 in FIG. 3) for launching a game ball is arranged in the game area 103. The game ball launched by driving the launching unit rises between the rails 102a and 102b and reaches the upper position of the game board 101, and then falls within the game area 103 by its own weight. The game area 103 is provided with a plurality of nails, windmills, etc., and the game balls launched into the game area 103 change the falling direction in various directions by colliding with the plurality of nails, windmills, etc. Fall.

  In the game area 103, a start winning port 105, a winning gate 106, a plurality of normal winning ports 107, and the like are arranged. Each of the start winning holes 105, the winning gates 106, and the plurality of ordinary winning holes 107 has detection units (indicated by reference numerals 321 to 324 in FIG. 3) whose outputs change depending on whether or not the game balls are won at the winning holes 105 to 107. Reference) is provided. The start winning opening 105 is provided with an electric tulip (hereinafter referred to as “electric chew”), which is not shown in the figure, and is a tulip-shaped accessory that is electrically opened and closed. The electric Chu operates to open the start winning opening 105 larger than usual for a predetermined time at a predetermined timing when the winning gate 106 is won.

  Below the game area 103, a special winning opening 109 is provided. The big prize opening 109 is provided with a big prize door 109a that closes the big prize opening 109 so that it can be opened. The big prize opening 109 is closed by a big prize door 109a in a state other than the big hit state. The big prize opening 109 is opened and closed by the big prize door 109a by a special prize opening opening / closing section (see reference numeral 331 in FIG. 3). At the bottom of the game area 103, there is provided a collection port 108 for collecting game balls that have not won any winning ports.

  A frame member 110 is provided on the outer peripheral portion of the game area 103 of the game board 101. The frame member 110 has a shape that surrounds the periphery of the game area 103 on the four sides of the game board 101 in the vertical and horizontal directions. The frame member 110 is provided with an operation handle 113 at a lower right portion toward the gaming machine. The operation handle 113 includes a firing instruction member 114 that drives the above-described launching unit to launch a game ball.

  The firing instruction member 114 is provided on the outer peripheral portion of the operation handle 113 so as to rotate clockwise as viewed from the player. The firing unit launches a game ball in a state where the firing instruction member 114 is directly operated by the player and rotated in a predetermined direction (for example, clockwise). The operation handle 113 is provided with a sensor for detecting that the player is directly operating the firing instruction member 114. Since a sensor that detects that the player directly operates the firing instruction member 114 is a known technique, a description thereof will be omitted.

  In the frame member 110, a chance button 117 that accepts an operation by the player is provided on the lower side of the game area 103. In this embodiment, the chance button 117 has a convex button shape. The chance button 117 may be an input pad that employs a touch panel system in addition to the convex button.

  In the frame member 110, a cross key 118 is provided next to the chance button 117. The cross key 118 includes a cursor key for selecting an operation content and the like, and an “ENTER” key (not shown) for confirming the operation content selected by operating the cursor key.

  In the game board 101, a display unit 104 is arranged at the center of the game area 103. The display unit 104 can be realized by, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD). The display unit 104 realized by a liquid crystal display includes a liquid crystal display panel 201 capable of displaying various images in color, and a liquid crystal shutter 202 provided on the back surface of the liquid crystal display panel 201.

  A light source (not shown) that illuminates the display unit 104 is provided on the back side of the display unit 104. The liquid crystal shutter 202 operates so as to transmit or block illumination light emitted from the light source to the front side of the gaming machine over the entire display area or in a partial display area based on the applied voltage.

  A reel 203 is disposed on the back side of the display unit 104. The reel 203 is configured by arranging a total of nine (9 frames) small reels 203a to 203i of 3 vertical × 3 horizontal, arranged in a matrix. The small reels 203 a to 203 i are arranged on the back side of the display unit 104 so as to form a plane parallel to the display screen formed by the display unit 104.

  Each of the small reels 203a to 203i has a cylindrical shape, and a plurality of types of symbols are written on the outer peripheral surface. Specifically, a symbol for jackpot (for example, “7”) and a symbol for losing (for example, an asterisk) are written on the outer peripheral surfaces of the small reels 203a to 203i, respectively. Each of the small reels 203a to 203i is provided so as to be rotatable about a cylindrical axis.

  A motor that rotates each reel independently is connected to each of the small reels 203a to 203i. By driving the motors and individually rotating the small reels 203a to 203i, the symbols directed to the display unit 104 by the small reels 203a to 203i can be changed. Each of the small reels 203a to 203i shows a predetermined outcome in a state where one symbol is stopped toward the display unit 104 side. The reel 203 shows a predetermined outcome when all the small reels 203a to 203i are stopped.

  The light source is provided between the display unit 104 and the reel 203. The light source can be constituted by a plurality of LEDs, for example. The light source functions as a backlight of the display unit 104 and also functions as illumination that illuminates the symbols indicated by the small reels 203 a to 203 i in the reel 203.

(Internal configuration of control unit)
FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the internal configuration of the control unit of the gaming machine. The control unit 300 includes a plurality of control units including a main control unit 301, an effect control unit 302, and a prize ball control unit 303. Each control unit 301 to 303 is provided on an independent substrate. Each of the control units 301 to 303 may be partly or wholly provided on the same substrate, for example, the main control unit 301 and the prize ball control unit 303 are provided on the same printed circuit board.

The main control unit 301 controls basic operations related to gaming of the gaming machine. The main control unit 301 includes a CPU 311, a ROM 312, a RAM 313, and the like. The CPU 311 executes basic processing according to the progress of game content based on the program stored in the ROM 312. The ROM 312 stores various programs for executing basic processing associated with the progress of game content, a jackpot value used for jackpot determination, and the like. The RAM 313 functions as a data work area when the CPU 311 performs arithmetic processing.

  The CPU 311 counts, for example, a jackpot determination random number as a basic process associated with the progress of game contents. Specifically, for example, in the case of a gaming machine whose jackpot probability is set to 1/280, the CPU 311 counts up by +1 with a numerical value from 0 to 279 while the gaming machine is activated. . The CPU 311 starts counting up from the time of supplying power to the main control unit 301, and after counting for one loop, counts for the next one loop. The RAM 313 functions as a counter for counting such jackpot determination random numbers.

  Then, when the game ball launched by the launching unit 392 wins the start winning opening 105 (hereinafter referred to as “start winning”), the CPU 311 acquires the count value at the time of starting winning as a jackpot determination random number. The jackpot determination random number to be acquired differs depending on the timing of starting winning. Specifically, for example, in the case of a gaming machine in which the jackpot probability 1/280 is set, the CPU 311 calculates a numerical value counted at the time of starting winning from a numerical value group including integers from 0 to 279, Acquired as a jackpot determination random number. If it is said example, the numerical value in the numerical group comprised by the integer from 0 to 279 will be acquired as a random number for jackpot determination.

  Whenever the CPU 311 acquires the jackpot determination random number, the CPU 311 compares the acquired jackpot determination random number with the jackpot value stored in the ROM 312 and performs a jackpot determination. Specifically, the CPU 311 determines, for example, whether or not the jackpot determination random number matches the jackpot value, and determines that the match is a jackpot. In the jackpot determination, when the jackpot determination random number for performing the jackpot determination is acquired, that is, when the effect corresponding to the previous start winning is being performed at the time of starting winning, the effect being performed is ended Then do it.

  Although the details will be described later, the jackpot value varies depending on the game state being executed. For example, in the gaming state having the jackpot probability of 1/280 (hereinafter referred to as “low probability state”), the jackpot value is set to “0”. In a gaming state with a jackpot probability of 1/28 (hereinafter referred to as “high probability state”), the jackpot value is set to “0” to “9”. Therefore, in the high probability state, the jackpot probability is 10 times that in the low probability state, and the gaming state is such that the player can expect a jackpot as compared to the low probability state.

  Further, the CPU 311 performs, for example, a reach random number count, a variation pattern random number count, a design random number count, and the like as a basic process as the game content progresses. The reach random number is acquired when there is a start winning, and determines whether or not to perform a reach effect in the effect performed according to the start winning. The reach random number is effective when the result of the jackpot determination is a loss, and the gaming machine performs a loss effect with a reach effect when the result of the jackpot determination is a loss and the CPU 311 acquires a specific reach random number.

The variation pattern random number is acquired immediately before starting the production every time the production is performed according to the start winning prize, and determines the variation pattern (for example, the variation time) of the symbol displayed on the reel 203 or the display unit 104 at the time of the production. The symbol random number is acquired when it is determined that the jackpot is determined to be a jackpot, and determines the jackpot type (the jackpot type will be described later). Reach random number counting, variation pattern random number counting, and design random number counting are performed using separate counters. For each random number count,
Since it is the same as the count of the jackpot determination random number described above, the description is omitted.

  On the input side of the main control unit 301, a start winning port detecting unit 321, a gate detecting unit 322, a normal winning port detecting unit 323, a big winning port detecting unit 324, and the like are connected. The start winning opening detection unit 321 detects a winning ball that has won the start winning opening 105. The gate detection unit 322 detects a game ball that has passed through the winning gate 106. The normal winning opening detecting unit 323 detects a game ball won in the normal winning opening 107. The special winning opening detection unit 324 detects a winning ball that has won the special winning opening 109. Each of the detection units 321 to 324 can be realized by a proximity sensor, for example. In this case, each sensor realizing the detection units 321 to 324 outputs a signal indicating an ON state at a timing when the game ball approaches each sensor.

  The CPU 311 monitors the output from each of the detection units 321 to 324 every predetermined time (for example, 4 msec). When a game ball wins the start winning port 105, the winning gate 106, the normal winning port 107, or the big winning port 109, the outputs from the corresponding detection units 321 to 324 are continuously turned on twice or more. Based on the output from each of the detection units 321 to 324, the CPU 311 determines that there has been a prize at a location corresponding to the detection units 321 to 324 that have been turned on continuously twice or more.

  A large winning opening / closing unit 331 is connected to the output side of the main control unit 301, and when the CPU 311 detects that a game ball has won the large winning port 109, the large winning opening / closing unit 331 has a large value. An opening / closing signal of the winning door 109a is output. The special winning opening / closing unit 331 controls the opening / closing of the special winning opening 109 by the special winning door 109 a based on the open / close signal output from the main control unit 301. The big prize opening / closing part 331 can be realized by, for example, a solenoid coupled to the big prize door 109a.

  The CPU 311 controls the big prize opening / closing unit 331 so that the big prize opening 109 is opened only for a certain period when a big hit occurs. The big winning opening 109 is opened after a predetermined time after the big hit is determined by the big hit determination, for example. In addition, when a big hit occurs, the CPU 311 controls the big prize opening / closing part 331 so that the opening / closing operation of closing the big prize opening 109 and then closing it again is repeated a predetermined round (for example, 15 rounds). The period of one round is, for example, a period during which ten game balls are won in the big winning opening 109 or a predetermined period (for example, 30 seconds). The jackpot is programmed in advance to occur with a predetermined probability (for example, 1/280) based on the generated random number.

  In addition, when the CPU 311 detects that a game ball has won a place where there is a payout, such as the start winning hole 105, the normal winning hole 107, and the big winning hole 109, the winning ball control connected to the output side of the main control unit 301 is performed. A prize ball control signal is output to the unit 303. Based on the output signal from the main control unit 301, the prize ball control unit 303 pays out a prize connected to the output side of the prize ball control unit 303 so as to pay out the number of prize balls according to the place where the gaming machine has won a prize. The unit 391 is driven and controlled.

  The prize ball control unit 303 includes a CPU 381, a ROM 382, a RAM 383, and the like. Based on the control signal from the main control unit 301 and the program stored in the ROM 382, the CPU 381 drives and controls the payout unit 391 connected to the output side of the prize ball control unit 303, and the number corresponding to the place where the prize is won. The prize ball is paid out.

During the opening / closing operation of the big prize opening 109, the prize ball control unit 303 pays out 15 prize balls, for example, every time one game ball wins the big prize opening 109. The RAM 383 functions as a data work area when the CPU 381 performs arithmetic processing. The payout unit 391 is connected to a game ball storage unit, and includes a motor for paying out game balls, a sensor for counting the number of game balls paid out, and the like. The payout unit 391 includes a prize ball control unit 303.
In accordance with the output signal from, the number of prize balls corresponding to the winning location is paid out.

  The award ball control unit 303 detects an operation of launching a game ball with respect to the launch unit 392 and controls the launch of the game ball. The launching unit 392 launches a game ball for gaming, and includes a sensor that detects a game operation by the player, a solenoid that launches the game ball, and the like (all of which are not shown). When the award ball control unit 303 detects a game operation by the sensor of the launch unit 392, the game ball 103 is intermittently fired by driving a solenoid or the like in response to the detected game operation, thereby playing the game area 103 of the game board 101. A game ball is sent out.

  The effect control unit 302 controls various effects during the game. The display unit 104 and the reel 203 are connected to the output side of the effect control unit 302. The effect control unit 302 controls the operation of the display unit 104 and the reel 203 to control the effect operation during the game. The effect control unit 302 includes a CPU 341, a ROM 342, a RAM 343, and the like.

  Based on the control signal from the main control unit 301 and the program stored in the ROM 342, the CPU 341 executes effect processing that produces game content. The ROM 342 stores various programs related to execution of the effect processing, various image data (background image, design image, character image, etc.) displayed on the display unit 104, and rotation control data for the reel 203. The RAM 343 functions as a data work area when the CPU 341 performs arithmetic processing.

  The CPU 341 reads a program and various image data stored in the ROM 342, and performs various image processing such as background image display processing, symbol image display / variation processing, and character image display processing. When executing various image processes, the CPU 341 reads out necessary image data from the ROM 342 and writes the read image data into the VRAM 344 provided in the effect control unit 302 or the like. When writing image data to the VRAM 344 provided in the effect control unit 302, the CPU 341 processes the image data so that the design image and the character image can be seen in front of the background image.

  Specifically, for example, when the display position of the background image and the design image displayed on the display unit 104 overlaps the same position in the display screen, the Z value of the Z buffer of each image data by a known hidden surface removal method such as the Z buffer method , The symbol image is preferentially stored in the VRAM 344 or the like. Based on the image data written in the VRAM 344, the display unit 104 displays an image in which the design image and the character image can be seen in front of the background image. Specifically, the display unit 104 displays, for example, a design that produces a game content until winning a prize, a reach (a state in which two of the three symbols are arranged), a design that produces a game content at the time of a big hit. Output the image data.

  In addition, the CPU 341 reads a program and rotation control data stored in the ROM 342 and performs rotation control processing of the reel 203. In the rotation control processing of the reel 203, the CPU 341 reads out necessary rotation control data from the ROM 342, and the rotation direction, rotation speed, and rotation speed of the motors connected to the small reels 203a to 203i based on the read rotation control data. Control etc.

  “Rotation” in this embodiment indicates an operation state in which an arbitrary reference position on each of the small reels 203a to 203i moves 360 degrees on the circumference around each axis. In addition, in this embodiment, “rotation” means that an arbitrary reference position on each of the small reels 203a to 203i moves on the circumference around each axis at a rotation angle of less than 360 degrees or greater than 360 degrees. , Including a so-called “turning” operating state.

  Specifically, the CPU 341 shows a state where, for example, a predetermined number (for example, three) of symbols are aligned on one line by controlling the rotation of the reel 203. Further, the CPU 341 controls the rotation of the reel 203, and specifically shows a state in which, for example, the number of symbols indicating the reach (two of the three symbols) is aligned on one line.

  The CPU 341 assists the design of the reel 203 in accordance with the design state of the plurality of small reels 203a to 203i so that the effect image displayed on the display unit 104 and the design state of the reel 203 are linked to each other. Generate and output various image data. Specifically, the CPU 341 assists the design of the reel 203 when, for example, the design of the reel 203 indicates a reach state or a jackpot state, and the image data of the effect image that enhances the player's expectation and excitement. Is generated and output.

  Further, the CPU 341 generates and outputs image data of an effect image representing the effect mode being executed. For example, the CPU 341 reads the image data of the background image associated with the effect mode being executed and writes it in the VRAM 344. As described above, if the CPU 341 also displays a symbol image or a character image at this time, the CPU 341 processes the image data so that they can be seen in front of the background image.

  Further, the CPU 341 generates and outputs different image data according to the presence / absence of the effect button operation or the operation timing of the effect button so that the effect image displayed on the display unit 104 changes according to the operation of the effect button. Further, the CPU 341 varies the rotation control of the reel 203 according to the presence / absence of the effect button operation or the operation timing of the effect button so that the symbol formed by the reel 203 changes according to the operation of the effect button.

  An audio control unit 355 is connected to the output side of the effect control unit 302. The CPU 341 outputs data (audio output control data) for controlling the energization state of the coil included in the speaker 377 to the audio control unit 355. The audio control unit 355 changes various energization states for the coil based on the audio output control data output from the effect control unit 302, so that various sounds such as BGM, effect sound effects, character dialogue, and the like are output from the speaker 377. Output from.

(Basic operation of gaming machines)
Next, an example of the basic operation of the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described. When the gaming machine detects a player's operation, the gaming unit launches a game ball by the launching unit 392. The launched game ball falls downward in the game area 103 by its own weight while colliding with a nail or a windmill. A part of the launched game balls wins a winning prize opening 105, a normal winning opening 107, a grand prize winning opening 109, and the like.

  The main control unit 301 outputs the winning status of the game balls at the place where there is a payout, such as the start winning port 105, the normal winning port 107, and the big winning port 109, to the winning ball control unit 303. The winning ball control unit 303 pays out the number of winning balls corresponding to the winning situation in accordance with the output signal from the main control unit 301. Further, when the game ball wins the winning gate 106, the main control unit 301 opens the start winning opening 105 larger than usual for a predetermined time.

Further, when the game ball wins the start winning opening 105 (start winning prize), the main control unit 301 performs the jackpot determination described above, and performs a lose effect or a jackpot effect according to the jackpot determination result. Specifically, when the gaming machine determines that the acquired jackpot determination random number and the jackpot value do not match, the effect control unit 302 executes a lose effect. In addition, when the main control unit 301 determines that the acquired jackpot determination random number matches the jackpot value, the effect control unit 302 executes the jackpot effect. Further, when the main control unit 301 determines that the acquired jackpot determination random number and the jackpot value match, the main control unit 301 opens the jackpot 109 for a predetermined number of rounds.

  Further, the main control unit 301 outputs a signal corresponding to the place where the winning is made to the winning ball control unit 303, and the winning ball control unit 303 controls driving of the payout unit 391 according to the output signal from the main control unit 301. , Pay out the number of prize balls according to the place where the prize was won. And the main control part 301 complete | finishes a jackpot state after completion | finish of jackpot presentation, and returns to another game state. The gaming state that shifts after the big hit state will be described later with reference to FIG.

  When there is another start winning during the execution of the production corresponding to the previous start winning, the main control unit 301 acquires the big hit determining random number at the time of the start winning and holds the acquired big hit determining random number To do. Then, after the effect that is being executed is finished, the jackpot determination using the reserved jackpot determination random number is performed, and a signal indicating the jackpot determination result is output to the effect control unit 302. The effect control unit 302 performs various effects according to the output signal from the main control unit 301.

  Further, when the main control unit 301 obtains and holds the jackpot determination random number, the main control unit 301 may determine whether the held jackpot determination random number matches the jackpot value (so-called “look ahead”). (Hereinafter referred to as “look ahead”). Then, a signal indicating the prefetch result is output to the effect control unit 302. As a result, the effect control unit 302 can perform an effect that gradually increases the player's expectation before the start of the big change.

  The effect control unit 302 uses the display unit 104 and the reel 203 to perform various effects such as a loss effect and a jackpot effect. Specifically, the effect control unit 302, for example, rotates all the small reels 203a to 203i, and then sequentially stops the small reels 203a to 203i to indicate a predetermined outcome using the reel 203. An image in accordance with the rotation and stop operation of the reel 203 is displayed on the display unit 104.

  The display unit 104 displays an image that is linked to the operation of the reel 203 and the roll made by the reel 203. In this manner, by interlinking the image display operation on the display unit 104 and the operation of the reel 203, it is possible to enhance the effect of the effect produced by the gaming machine. Further, the display unit 104 displays an image corresponding to the effect mode being executed.

  Since the display unit 104 and the reel 203 are arranged so as to overlap each other in the depth direction of the gaming machine, the player visually recognizes the entire reel 203 or some of the small reels 203a to 203i in accordance with an image displayed on the display unit 104. can do. The player sees the reel 203 on the rear side (back side) of the display unit 104 through the display unit 104, and simultaneously produces the effect by the display unit 104 and the effect by the reel 203 without shifting the line of sight. Can see.

  In addition, since the display unit 104 and the reel 203 are arranged so as to overlap in the depth direction of the gaming machine, in a region where the display unit 104 and the reel 203 overlap with each other, The player can see the entire reel 203 or show the player only a part of the reel 203 (for example, only one of the small reels 203a to 203i is cut off). Specifically, when the display unit 104 is realized by, for example, a liquid crystal display, an effect of showing the player the entire reel 203 or only a part of the reel 203 by adjusting the opening / closing degree of the shutter. Can be done.

(Game state that the gaming machine of this embodiment can take)
Next, gaming states that can be taken by the gaming machine of the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing gaming states that can be taken by the gaming machine of the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 4, the gaming machine of the present embodiment has a “hit state”, “probability changing gaming state”, “latent probability changing gaming state”, “normal gaming state”, and “short-time gaming state”. Any of the gaming states can be taken. The contents of each game state will be described below.

  When the jackpot is won in other gaming states except the jackpot state, the gaming machine shifts to the jackpot state. The jackpot state is continued until a predetermined jackpot end condition is satisfied. The jackpot ending condition is, for example, to open the big winning holes 109 for the number of specified rounds. When the jackpot ending condition is satisfied, the game state set for each winning jackpot type is entered.

  For example, when the winning jackpot type is a probability variation jackpot, the gaming machine shifts to a probability variation gaming state. In the case of a normal jackpot, the gaming machine transitions to a short-time gaming state. In the case of a latent probability variation jackpot (hereinafter referred to as “latent probability jackpot”), the gaming machine shifts to a latent probability variation gaming state.

  In the gaming machine of this embodiment, the number of times of opening / closing the big prize opening 109 in each of the big prizes, that is, the number of rounds is the same number of rounds (for example, eight rounds), and the big prize opening per round. The opening times for opening 109 are set differently. For example, the opening time per round is 30 seconds for the above probability variation jackpot and normal jackpot. On the other hand, for the latent big hit, the open time per round is 0.1 seconds.

  In general, in pachinko machines, when there are multiple types of jackpots with different numbers of rounds, for example, a predetermined lamp (hereinafter referred to as “round number notification lamp”) is turned on at the time of winning the jackpot, and the number of winning jackpot rounds is determined by the player. Must be notified. In the gaming machine of this embodiment, since all the jackpots have the same number of rounds as described above, it is not necessary to notify the player of the number of winning jackpot rounds. For this reason, the gaming machine according to this embodiment can eliminate the necessity of providing a round number notification lamp, and can reduce the cost in manufacturing the gaming machine.

  In addition, some recent pachinko machines have a specific loss called “small hit”. When winning the small win, the pachinko gaming machine does not shift to the big hit state, but performs the same content as the case of winning the latent big hit, for example. However, since the small hit is lost, the round number notification lamp is not turned on. Therefore, the player can easily determine whether the winning big win or the small winning is won based on whether or not the round number notification lamp is lit.

  Specifically, when the round number notification lamp is lit, the player can be determined to have won the latent big hit, and when the round number notification lamp is not lit, the player has won the small win. I was able to judge. For this reason, the player can easily determine the gaming state, and even if the latent probability changing gaming state is provided, the player cannot give the player a continuous expectation such as “may be a latent probability changing gaming state”. It was.

Therefore, in the gaming machine of this embodiment, by not providing the round number notification lamp, by making the player indistinguishable whether the winning big win or the small winning is won, for example, the small hit Even after winning, the player can be given a sense of expectation such as “may have entered a latent probability change gaming state”, and after that, the player may have a sense of expectation such as “may be a latent probability change gaming state”. Can last.

  Also, the gaming machine of this embodiment does not allow the player to easily identify the current gaming state by making it impossible for the player to determine whether the winning big win or the small winning is won Thus, it is possible to provide the player with a way of playing such as “make the player play while guessing the current gaming state”. The gaming machine of this embodiment does not allow the player to specify the current gaming state by various effects, while suggesting the gaming state and assisting the player in estimating the gaming state.

  The probability variation gaming state is a gaming state in which the tulip gaming support (hereinafter referred to as “electric chew support”) provided in the start winning opening 105 is added to the above high probability state (big hit probability 1/28). Here, the electric chew support is, for example, by opening the start winning opening 105 larger than usual for a certain time or increasing the frequency of opening the start winning opening 105, so that the electric chew support is not provided. This is a function for increasing the chances of winning the winning prize opening 105. The probability variation gaming state is continued until a predetermined probability variation termination condition is satisfied. For example, in the present embodiment, winning the jackpot (that is, shifting to the jackpot state) is a probability change termination condition.

  The latent probability changing gaming state is a gaming state in which no electric chew support is given to the above high probability state (big hit probability 1/28). The latent probability changing game state is continued until a predetermined latent probability changing end condition is satisfied. For example, in the present embodiment, winning the jackpot (that is, shifting to the jackpot state) is the latent probability change end condition.

  The short-time gaming state is a gaming state in which electric chew support is added to the low probability state (big hit probability 1/280). The short-time gaming state is continued until a predetermined short-time end condition is satisfied. For example, in the present embodiment, the symbol change for a specified number of times (for example, 100 times) or the winning of the jackpot is a short-term end condition. When the short-time end condition is satisfied, the gaming machine shifts to a normal gaming state or a big hit state.

  The normal gaming state is a gaming state in which no electric chew support is given to the low probability state (big hit probability 1/280). That is, the normal gaming state is not provided with electric Chu support like the latent probability changing gaming state, and only the jackpot probability is different. Since the jackpot probability is an internal probability of the gaming machine, the player cannot visually recognize it. Therefore, the gaming machine according to the present embodiment performs the same effects in the normal game state and the latent probability changing game state (aligns the visual effects), so that the player cannot determine which of the game states. It is like that.

(Functional configuration of gaming machine)
Next, a functional configuration of the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described. FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention. 5, the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention includes a receiving unit 501, a detecting unit 502, an interlock control unit 503, a display control unit 504, and a reel control unit 505. The functions of the units 501 to 505 can be realized by the effect control unit 302.

The receiving unit 501 receives a command transmitted from the main control unit (main control board) 301. The receiving unit 501 receives various commands transmitted from the main control unit (main control board) 301 such as a jackpot command, a reach command, and a gaming state command. The jackpot command can be a command indicating whether it is a jackpot or lose, and the contents of the instruction can be determined by a jackpot determination random number acquired at the time of starting winning. The reach command can be a command indicating the presence or absence of reach production, and the contents of the instruction can be determined by the reach random number acquired at the time of starting winning. The gaming state command can be a command indicating a gaming state, and the content of the instruction can be determined by the gaming state being executed.

  The detection unit 502 detects whether the reception unit 501 has received a command and outputs the detection result to the interlock control unit 503. When detecting that the receiving unit 501 has received a command, the detecting unit 502 determines the type of the detected command, and outputs a signal corresponding to the determined type of command to the interlock control unit 503.

  Specifically, for example, if the detection unit 502 determines that the jackpot command received by the reception unit 501 is a command indicating a jackpot, the detection unit 502 outputs a command instructing execution of the jackpot effect to the interlock control unit 503. In addition, for example, when the detection unit 502 determines that the reach command received by the receiving unit 501 is a reach command indicating the presence of the reach effect, for example, the command for instructing execution of the effect including the reach effect is controlled in conjunction with the detection command. Output to the unit 503.

  The interlock control unit 503 receives the detection result from the detection unit 502, that is, the command output from the detection unit 502, and outputs a drive control signal according to the received command to the display control unit 504 and the reel control unit 505, respectively. For example, when the interlock control unit 503 receives a command for instructing execution of the jackpot effect, the display control unit 504 outputs a signal for instructing display of the effect image in accordance with the position of the reel 203 and the stop timing of each of the small reels 203a to 203i. And a signal for instructing the reel 203 to stop at the outcome indicating the big hit.

  Further, when the interlock control unit 503 receives, for example, a command for instructing execution of a losing effect (that is, a losing effect without a reach effect), the winning probability for each transition mode indicating the probability of switching the effect mode on the display screen. A lottery for determining one transition mode is performed using the transition mode lottery table (see FIG. 8) that defines the above (first lottery process step). In the first lottery process, the interlock control unit 503 makes a transition based on the gaming state command between a high probability state such as a latent probability changing gaming state and a low probability state such as a normal gaming state. A lottery is performed using a transition mode lottery table with different probability of winning a mode.

  For example, the transition mode includes a first transition mode that represents a first occurrence probability (for example, 1/10) and a second occurrence probability that has a higher probability of switching between production modes than the first occurrence probability ( For example, it comprises at least two types of transition modes including a second transition mode representing 1/5). In this case, if the gaming state is the latent probability changing gaming state, the interlock control unit 503 uses the transition mode lottery table in which the winning probability of the second transition mode is set higher than that in the normal gaming state. The lottery process is performed. On the other hand, if the gaming state is the normal gaming state, the interlock control unit 503 uses the transition mode lottery table in which the winning probability of the first transition mode is set higher than that in the latent probability changing gaming state. Perform a lottery process.

  Further, for example, the first lottery process may be performed when a specific effect is performed. Here, the specific effect can be an effect (for example, an after-mentioned effect) that can accept a predetermined operation (for example, pressing the chance button 117). Furthermore, the first lottery process may be performed when the predetermined operation is received during a specific performance.

Thereafter, the interlocking control unit 503 determines the transition probability to each effect mode with the occurrence probability in the transition mode lottery by the first lottery process (FIGS. 10-1, 10-2, FIG. 10). 10-3), a lottery for determining the effect mode of the switching destination is performed (second lottery processing step). Specifically, for example, every time the symbol is changed by one, the interlock control unit 503 performs a lottery to determine whether to switch the production mode, and the transition mode selected in the first lottery process is approximately generated. Control is performed so that the production mode is switched with probability.

  In the second lottery process, the interlock control unit 503 determines whether the game state command is a high probability state such as a latent probability changing game state or the like and a low probability state such as a normal game state. A lottery is performed using a destination lottery table with different probability of transition to the production mode.

  In the lottery process, the interlock control unit 503 may also use information on the current effect mode. In this case, the interlocking control unit 503 limits the switching-destination effect mode depending on the current effect mode. For example, the gaming machine has a first effect mode (for example, “dwarf stage” described later), a second effect mode (for example, “gate stage” described later), and a third effect mode (for example, “dragon stage” described later). It is assumed that three types of production modes can be taken. At this time, if the current production mode is the first production mode, the interlock control unit 503 performs the migration destination lottery using the migration destination lottery table in which the transition probability to the third production mode is set to 0. The effect mode of the switching destination that is won by this transition destination lottery is set as the second effect mode.

  In addition, for example, if the current effect mode is the second effect mode, the interlock control unit 503 sets the transition destination in which the transition probability to the first effect mode or the third effect mode is set to a predetermined probability other than 0. The transfer destination lottery is performed using the lottery table, and the effect mode of the switching destination that is won by the transfer destination lottery is set as the first effect mode or the third effect mode.

  For example, if the current production mode is the third production mode, the interlock control unit 503 performs the migration destination lottery using the migration destination lottery table in which the transition probability to the first production mode is set to 0. The effect mode of the switching destination that is won by this transition destination lottery is set as the second effect mode.

  With the above-described first lottery process and second lottery process, in the gaming machine, when the occurrence probability of switching of the production mode and the production mode of the switching destination are in a high probability state such as a latent probability changing game state and the normal game It becomes different from the case of a low probability state such as a state. For example, when a gaming machine is in a high probability state, the game machine tends to have a higher probability of occurrence than in a low probability state, and the second lottery process shifts to an effect mode that has a higher expectation than the current effect mode. The tendency to switch. Thereby, the gaming machine can indicate to the player an expectation for a high probability state such as a latent probability changing game state by switching the effect mode.

  Then, the interlock control unit 503 outputs to the display control unit 504 a signal for instructing display of the effect image corresponding to the effect mode of the switching destination based on the lottery result of the second lottery process.

  The display control unit 504 receives the signal output from the interlock control unit 503, and controls the display unit 104 so that the effect image according to the received signal is displayed on the display unit 104. The display control unit 504 controls the display unit 104 so that an effect image in accordance with the rotation state and stop timing of each of the small reels 203a to 203i is displayed on the display unit 104. The display unit 104 operates according to the control of the display control unit 504.

The display control unit 504 of this embodiment controls the transmittance of the display unit 104 so that all or a part of the reel 203 can be viewed through the display unit 104, and all of the reels 203 that can be viewed through the display unit 104. Alternatively, an image that seems to stop or suppress a part of the rotation is displayed on the reel 203 on the display unit 104. Alternatively, the display control unit 50
4 may display an image that appears to stop or suppress the rotation of all or part of the reel 203 that can be seen through in the vicinity of the reel 203.

  The reel control unit 505 receives the signal output from the interlock control unit 503, and controls the rotation operation of the small reels 203a to 203i in the reel 203 according to the received signal. Specifically, the reel control unit 505 controls the rotation operation of each of the small reels 203a to 203i by giving a pulse signal to a motor provided for each of the small reels 203a to 203i, for example.

  The reel control unit 505 controls the rotation operation of each of the small reels 203a to 203i so that the small reels 203a to 203i stop in a predetermined order after all the small reels 203a to 203i are simultaneously rotated. . The symbol shown on the reel 203 when all the small reels 203a to 203i are stopped is a symbol determined by the above-described random number of the variation pattern. In addition, the reel control unit 505 controls the rotation operation of each of the small reels 203a to 203i so that the small reels 203a to 203i rotate in a predetermined rotation direction at a predetermined rotation speed. The reel 203 operates according to the control of the reel control unit 505.

  Control of the display control unit 504 and the reel control unit 505 is not limited to that performed via the interlock control unit 503. For example, when the presentation only is performed, the display control unit 504 may control the display unit 104 alone. Further, for example, when the production is performed only by the fluctuation of the reel 203, the reel control unit 505 may control the rotation operation of the reel 203 independently.

  In the present embodiment, the symbol indicating the determination result of the jackpot determination is expressed using the physical reel 203, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the display control unit 504 displays the three rows of symbol images so as to move from the top to the bottom of the display unit 104, and then stops and displays these symbol images in a combination indicating the determination result of the jackpot determination. May be. In this case, the reel control unit 505 and the reel 203 are not necessary.

(Contents of game machines)
Next, the contents of the effects of the gaming machine will be described. The effect of the gaming machine according to the present embodiment is based on, for example, a story in which the main character (player) subjugates the evil demon king. This game machine departs on a journey where the hero defeats the Demon King from the dwarf country (dwarf stage). After that, the main character passes through the gate of the Demon World (Gate Stage) to enter the Demon World where the Demon King lives. The main character who entered the Demon World defeats the Demon Lord Shigenomi Dragon (Dragon Stage) and advances the game along a story that aims to reach the castle of the Demon King (Devil King Stage). Then, at the end of a long journey, the confrontation with the Demon King will be a big hit if the Demon King is successfully subjugated.

  FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing an outline of the effect mode of the gaming machine of the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 6, the gaming machine of the present embodiment is specifically a “dwarf stage” that assumes a dwarf country in accordance with the above story, and a “gate” that assumes a gate of a demon world. The stage will be performed using multiple production modes (stages): “Dragon Stage”, which assumes a battle with the Demon Lord ’s hero, and “Devil Stage”, which assumes a battle with the Demon King.

  These production modes have, for example, a hierarchical structure, and the degree of expectation increases stepwise as the production mode is closer to the “Maou Stage” in FIG. 6. Here, the degree of expectation refers to the degree to which a player can be expected to be in a high probability state (probability variation game state or latent probability variation game state).

Specifically, “Devil King Stage” is a production mode in which it is determined that the state is in a high probability state (probability game state or latent probability variation game state) (transition only in the high probability state). “Dragon Stage”> “Gate Stage”> “Dwarf Stage”. The gaming machine selects one effect mode from the plurality of effect modes and performs an effect corresponding to the effect mode. The gaming machine displays, for example, an effect image including a background image (for example, a dragon background image for a dragon stage) corresponding to the selected effect mode on the display unit 104.

  The gaming machine can be switched to an effect mode adjacent to the current effect mode. The gaming machine switches to “gate stage” when the current production mode is “dwarf stage”, for example (arrow 601 in FIG. 6). Further, the gaming machine switches to the “dwarf stage” (arrow 602 in FIG. 6) or “dragon stage” when the current production mode is “gate stage”, for example (603 in FIG. 6). Arrow). Further, the gaming machine switches to the “gate stage” (arrow 604 in FIG. 6) or “devil stage” (arrow 605 in FIG. 6) when the current production mode is “Dragon Stage”, for example. ). When switching to the “Demon King Stage”, the gaming machine does not switch the production mode until the next big hit. In this manner, the effect of switching the effect mode is hereinafter referred to as “stage transition effect”.

  The gaming machine performs the stage transition effect (that is, the effect mode switching) at an arbitrary timing. Here, the arbitrary timing can be, for example, a stage transition occurrence lottery for determining whether or not to perform a stage transition effect every time the symbol is changed once, and when the lottery is won. At this time, the probability of winning the stage shift occurrence lottery is based on the lottery result of the first lottery process. In addition, the gaming machine may perform the stage transition effect when, for example, the specified number of symbols has changed from the previous stage transition effect.

  In addition, the gaming machine can switch from the current effect mode to a predetermined effect mode at the start of, for example, a big hit. The gaming machine switches to the “dragon stage” when the current production mode is “dwarf stage”, for example. Further, for example, the gaming machine may perform prefetching and switch from the current production mode to “Dragon Stage” when there is a big hit in the hold.

(Game machine processing procedure)
Next, the processing procedure of the gaming machine when producing the above contents will be described. FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure of the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention. The processing shown in FIG. 7 is executed by the effect control unit (effect control board) 302 in a state where the power of the gaming machine is turned on, a predetermined start-up process and the like are completed, and a normal game can be performed.

  In the flowchart shown in FIG. 7, first, the effect control unit 302 stands by until there is a start winning based on the output signal from the main control unit 301 (step S701: No). When there is a start winning (step S701: Yes), the effect control unit 302 determines whether to execute a reach effect (step S702). In step S702, the effect control unit 302 determines that the reach effect is to be executed, for example, when the jackpot determination random number acquired at the time of starting winning matches the jackpot value or when the reach random number indicating the presence of the reach effect is acquired.

When the reach effect is not executed (step S702: No), the effect control unit 302 performs a lottery (eye press effect execution lottery) as to whether or not to execute a press effect capable of accepting a predetermined operation (step S703). . In step S703, the effect control unit 302 performs the eye-drawing effect execution lottery based on, for example, a predetermined eye-drawing effect execution lottery random number acquired immediately before the eye-drawing effect execution lottery and the execution lottery table. At this time, if the value of the random number for the lottery effect execution lottery is a predetermined value, it is assumed that the marginal effect is executed.

  Thereafter, based on the lottery result of the eye-drawing effect execution lottery, it is determined whether the eye-drawing effect is executed (whether the eye-drawing effect execution lottery is won) (step S704). When it is determined in step S704 that the eye-pressing effect is not executed (step S704: No), the effect control unit 302 proceeds to step S709 described later. If it is determined in step S704 that the eye pressing effect is to be executed (step S704: Yes), the effect control unit 302 executes the eye pressing effect that allows a predetermined operation (for example, pressing) to be accepted by the chance button 117 or the like. (Step S705).

  Subsequently, the effect control unit 302 determines whether the above operation has been received during the eye-pressing effect (step S706). When the above operation is not accepted during the eye-pressing effect (step S706: No), the effect control unit 302 ends the series of processes as it is. On the other hand, when the above operation is accepted during the stage effect (step S706: Yes), a lottery (hereinafter referred to as “transition mode lottery”) for determining the transition mode is performed using the transition mode lottery table (hereinafter referred to as “transition mode lottery”). Step S707). In step S707, a lottery is performed using a transition mode lottery table having different winning probabilities for each transition mode depending on whether it is a high probability state such as a latent probability changing game state or a low probability state such as a normal game state. Do it.

  Then, the production control unit 302 determines the transition mode based on the lottery result of the transition mode lottery (step S708), and performs the stage transition occurrence lottery using the transition mode (step S709). In step S709, when the transition mode lottery is not performed in the current start winning, the production control unit 302 performs the stage transition occurrence lottery using the transition mode determined based on the previous transition mode lottery. .

  The stage shift occurrence lottery is a lottery for determining whether or not to execute a stage shift effect. In step S709, the effect control unit 302 performs stage transition occurrence lottery based on, for example, a predetermined stage transition occurrence lottery random number acquired immediately before stage transition occurrence lottery and a stage transition occurrence lottery table. At this time, if the value of the random number for stage shift occurrence lottery is a predetermined value, the stage shift effect is executed.

  Thereafter, based on the lottery result of the stage transition occurrence lottery, it is determined whether to execute the stage transition effect (whether the stage transition occurrence lottery has been won) (step S710). When it is determined in step S710 that the stage transition effect is to be executed (step S710: Yes), the effect control unit 302 uses the transition destination lottery table in which the probability of transition to each effect mode is set to change the effect mode. A lottery process for switching (hereinafter referred to as “transfer destination lottery”) is performed (step S711).

  In step S711, the effect control unit 302 determines a game state (for example, latent probability changing game state) based on, for example, a game state command from the main control unit 301, and this game state and the current effect mode (for example, “dwarf stage”). Based on the above, the transfer destination lottery is performed using the lottery table set for each combination of the gaming state and the production mode.

  The transfer destination lottery table will be described later with reference to FIGS. 10-1, 10-2, and 10-3. For example, the current production mode is “gate stage” in a high-probability state such as a latent probability changing game state. The lottery table used in this case has a higher probability of transition to the “Dragon Stage” than the lottery table used when the current performance mode is “Gate Stage” in a low probability state such as a normal gaming state.

For example, the lottery table used when the current performance mode is “gate stage” in the high probability state, and the lottery table used when the current performance mode is “gate stage” in the low probability state such as the normal gaming state. The probability of transition to the “dwarf stage” is set lower. As a result, when the current production mode is “Gate Stage”, it is easy to shift to “Dragon Stage” if it is a high probability state, and to “Dwarf Stage” if it is a low probability state. Yes.

  Then, based on the lottery result of the transfer destination lottery, the effect control unit 302 determines the transfer destination effect mode (step S712), and executes the stage transition effect to switch to the transfer destination effect mode (step S713). A series of processing ends. When the stage transition effect is executed, the effect control unit 302 causes the display unit 104 to display an effect image representing the stage transition effect, rotates the reel 203, and stops at a predetermined loss (see FIG. 12-4).

  When it is determined in step S710 that the stage transition effect is not to be executed (step S710: No), the effect control unit 302 executes a predetermined lose effect (step S714) and ends the series of processes.

  On the other hand, when it is determined in step S702 that the reach effect is to be executed (step S702: Yes), the effect control unit 302 executes the reach effect (step S715) and determines whether it is a big hit (step S702). If it is a big hit (step S716: Yes), the reel 203 is stopped at the position showing the big hit, the big hit round effect is executed (step S717), and the series of processes is terminated. If it is not a big hit (step S716: No), the effect control unit 302 stops the reel 203 at the point where the loss is indicated, and ends the series of processes.

  Thus, for example, each time there is a start prize, the gaming machine performs a lottery effect execution lottery, and when the lottery is won, the bonus effect is executed. And if operation from a player is received during this direction effect, the transfer mode lottery which determines the transfer mode showing the generation | occurrence | production probability of a stage transfer effect will be performed. In the transition mode lottery, a transition mode lottery table having different winning probabilities for each transition mode (that is, different transition modes that are easy to win) is used depending on whether the state is a high probability state or a low probability state. Therefore, the gaming machine can indicate the gaming state by the winning transition mode. In addition, since the gaming machine does not suggest a gaming state unless an operation from the player is accepted during the stage effect, the player can be encouraged to actively participate in the game.

  Thereafter, a stage transition occurrence lottery is performed with the occurrence probability in the transition mode lottery in the transition mode lottery, and when this lottery is won, a stage transition effect is executed. When the transition mode lottery is not performed in the current start winning prize, the effect control unit 302 performs the stage transition occurrence lottery using the transition mode determined based on the previous transition mode lottery. In the transfer destination lottery, a transfer destination lottery table is used in which the transition probability to each effect mode is different (that is, the effect mode that is easy to win) is different between the high probability state and the low probability state. Therefore, the gaming machine can suggest the gaming state by the effect mode of the switching destination.

(An example of distribution of lottery results in transition mode lottery)
FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram showing a transition mode lottery table used in the transition mode lottery according to the embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 8, in the transfer mode lottery table 810 of the embodiment according to the present invention, the distribution state of the lottery result of the transfer mode lottery is shown. That is, in FIG. 8, the occurrence probability of the stage transition effect is determined. This probability of occurrence differs for each transition mode.

  A plurality of transition modes are provided, and in this embodiment, three transition modes of transition mode (1), transition mode (2), and transition mode (3) are provided. As described above, the gaming machine performs the transfer mode lottery, and always determines any one transfer mode based on the lottery result. In the transfer mode lottery, the easy-to-win transition mode differs depending on whether the gaming state is in a high probability state or a low probability state.

  Specifically, in the high probability state, for example, the transition mode (1) is determined by lottery with a probability of 60%, the transition mode (2) is determined by lottery with a probability of 30%, and the transition is performed with a probability of 10%. Mode (3) is determined by lottery. Specifically, for example, in the low probability state, the transition mode (1) is determined by lottery with a probability of 20%, the transition mode (2) is determined by lottery with a probability of 50%, and the probability of 30% The transition mode (3) is determined by lottery.

  FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram showing the occurrence probability of stage transition effects in each transition mode. The stage transition effect occurs according to the transition mode occurrence probability determined by the transition mode lottery. That is, the gaming machine performs a stage transition occurrence lottery, and wins the lottery (that is, performs a stage transition effect) with the occurrence probability of the transition mode determined by the transition mode lottery.

  As shown in FIG. 9, different occurrence probabilities (winning probabilities of stage transition occurrence lottery) are determined for each transition mode. Specifically, for example, when the stage transition occurrence lottery is performed in the transition mode (1), the stage transition effect is performed with a probability of 1/5. Specifically, for example, when the stage transition occurrence lottery is performed in the transition mode (2) state, the winning is performed with a probability of 1/10, and the stage transition occurrence lottery is performed in the transition mode (3) state. Will be won with a probability of 1/20 and stage transition will be performed.

  Thus, in the gaming machine, when the gaming state is a high probability state, the transition mode (1) having a high probability of occurrence is easier to win than when the gaming state is a low probability state. Therefore, in the gaming machine, when the gaming state is a high probability state, a stage transition effect is more likely to occur than when the gaming state is a low probability state.

(An example of sorting the lottery results of the destination lottery)
Next, the contents of the migration destination lottery table will be described. FIG. 10A is an explanatory diagram (part 1) of the contents of the transfer destination lottery table. FIG. 10-2 is an explanatory diagram (part 2) of the contents of the transfer destination lottery table. FIG. 10C is an explanatory diagram (part 3) of the contents of the transfer destination lottery table.

  A plurality of transfer destination lottery tables are provided, and the effect control unit 302 selects a transfer destination lottery table corresponding to the gaming state and the current effect mode, and uses this transfer destination lottery table to select the transfer destination lottery table. Do it. For example, in the present embodiment, (1) a table for a high probability state “dwarf stage”, (2) a table for a low probability state “dwarf stage”, (3) a table for a high probability state “gate stage”, ( There are six destination lottery tables: 4) a table for low probability state “gate stage”, (5) a table for high probability state “dragon stage”, and (6) a table for low probability state “dragon stage”. .

  FIG. 10A shows the contents of the transfer destination lottery table when the current performance mode is “dwarf stage”. The column indicated by reference numeral 1010 in FIG. 10-1 indicates the contents of (1) the table for the high probability state “dwarf stage”, and the column indicated by reference numeral 1020 in FIG. The contents of the “person stage” table are shown.

  As indicated by the column 1010, in the “dwarf stage”, in the case of a high probability state, the “destination stage” is 60% for the “gate stage” and 40% for the “dwarf stage”. On the other hand, as shown in the column of reference numeral 1020, in the case of the low probability state, the transfer destination allocation is 40% for the “gate stage” and 60% for the “child stage”. In other words, when the transfer destination lottery is performed at the “dwarf stage”, the probability of moving to the “gate stage” is set higher in the high probability state than in the low probability state. Yes.

  FIG. 10-2 shows the contents of the transfer destination lottery table when the current effect mode is “gate stage”. 10-2 shows the contents of the table for (3) high probability state “gate stage”, and the column shown by reference numeral 1040 in FIG. 10-2 shows (4) low probability state “gate stage”. "Shows the contents of the table.

  As shown in the row of reference numeral 1030, in the “gate stage”, in the case of a high probability state, the “Dragon stage” is 30%, the “Gate stage” is 50%, and the “Child stage” is 20%. On the other hand, as shown in the row of reference numeral 1040, the distribution of the transition destination in the low probability state is 10% for "Dragon Stage", 40% for "Gate Stage", and 50% for "Child Stage". ing. That is, when the transfer destination lottery is performed in the “gate stage”, the probability of shifting to the “dragon stage” is set higher in the high probability state than in the low probability state.

  FIG. 10-3 shows the contents of the transfer destination lottery table when the current effect mode is “Dragon Stage”. The column indicated by reference numeral 1050 in FIG. 10-3 indicates the contents of the table for (5) high probability state “dragon stage”, and the column indicated by reference numeral 1060 in FIG. 10-3 is (6) low probability state “dragon stage”. "Shows the contents of the table.

  As shown in the column indicated by reference numeral 1050, in the “Dragon Stage”, the transfer destinations in the high probability state are 20% for the “Demon King Stage”, 60% for the “Dragon Stage”, and 20 for the “Gate Stage”. %. On the other hand, as shown in the column of reference numeral 1060, the distribution of the transition destination in the low probability state is 0% for “Devil Stage”, 20% for “Dragon Stage”, and 80% for “Gate Stage”. Yes. That is, when the destination lottery is performed at “Dragon Stage”, the probability of transitioning to “Dragon Stage” (ie, the probability of staying at “Dragon Stage”) is lower when the probability is higher. It is set higher than when. In addition, the transition to the “Devil King Stage” is made only in a high probability state.

  In this way, in the gaming machine of the present embodiment, when the transition destination lottery is performed, if the gaming state is a high probability state, it shifts to the “Dragon Stage” or “Gate Stage” rather than the low probability state. It is easy to do. In addition, it is easier to stay on those stages after the transition. Therefore, the player's expectation level for the high probability state is high in these stages, and when the player moves or stays in these stages, the player can have a sense of expectation that “it may be a high probability state”.

  In addition, when the transition destination lottery is performed in the “gate stage” in the gaming machine, if it is in the high probability state, the transition is made from the “gate stage” to the “dwarf stage” (effect mode with low expectation). The probability of transition from “Gate Stage” to “Dragon Stage” (highly expected production mode) is higher. On the other hand, in the case of a low probability state such as a normal gaming state, the “gate stage” to the “dwarf stage” (rather than the transition from the “gate stage” to the “dragon stage” (highly expected production mode) ( There is a high probability of switching to a production mode with low expectation.

  For this reason, the “gate stage” is a so-called gateway mode for transitioning to a highly expected performance mode. For this reason, the gaming machine can give a sense of accomplishment and a sense of expectation to a player who has passed the “gate stage” and transitioned to the “dragon stage”.

  FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing the relationship between the stage transition effect state (occurrence frequency and switching destination effect mode) and the degree of expectation for the high probability state in the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 11, the degree of expectation for the high probability state in the current gaming state can be suggested by the occurrence frequency of the stage transition effect. Specifically, if the gaming state is a high probability state, it is easier to win the transition mode (1) in the transition mode lottery than in the low probability state, and therefore stage transition effects are likely to occur frequently. .

  Moreover, the expectation degree with respect to the high probability state in the current gaming state can be suggested by the effect mode to which the current effect mode is switched. Specifically, if the gaming state is a high probability state, it is easier to win the performance mode that is expected to be higher in the destination lottery than in the case of a low probability state. It is easy to switch to an effect mode (for example, an effect mode higher than the current effect mode in FIG. 6).

  Therefore, for example, when the occurrence frequency of the stage transition effect is high and the expectation level of the effect mode at the switching destination is lower than the current effect mode, the current game state is the latent probability changing game state (high probability state). It can be suggested that the possibility is high. Specifically, when the stage transition effect is frequently generated and the expectation level of the effect mode to be switched to is higher than the current effect mode, the current game state is the latent probability change game state (high probability) It can be suggested that there is a higher possibility that

  Similarly, for example, when the occurrence frequency of the stage transition effect is low and the expectation level of the effect mode at the switching destination is higher than that of the current effect mode, the current game state is the latent probability changing game state ( It can be suggested that there is a high possibility that the state is a high probability state. Specifically, for example, when the occurrence frequency of the stage transition effect is low and the expectation level of the effect mode at the switching destination is lower than the current effect mode, the current game state is changed to the latent probability changing game state (high It is possible to suggest that the game state is a normal game state that is unlikely to be a probability state.

(Specific production example performed by the gaming machine of this embodiment)
Next, a specific production example performed by the gaming machine of this embodiment will be described. FIG. 12-1 is an explanatory diagram (No. 1) showing a specific example of the performance performed by the gaming machine of this embodiment. 12-2 is explanatory drawing (the 2) which shows the specific example of an effect which the game machine of this embodiment performs. 12-3 is explanatory drawing (the 3) which shows the specific example of an effect which the game machine of this embodiment performs. 12-4 is explanatory drawing (the 4) which shows the specific example of an effect which the game machine of this embodiment performs. FIG. 12-5 is an explanatory diagram (No. 5) showing a specific example of the performance performed by the gaming machine of this embodiment. 12-1, 12-2, 12-3, 12-4, and 12-5 above show the display unit 104 during a series of effects that have shifted to a stage transition effect through a push effect. ing. In addition, in FIGS. 12-1 to 12-5 shown below, the white down arrows in the drawing indicate that the small reels 203a to 203i are rotating.

12A, the gaming machine first starts rotating the small reels 203a to 203i on the reel 203, and at the same time displays a frame-like image (background image) that divides the small reels 203a to 203i on the display unit 104. ) Is displayed. This frame-like image is an image corresponding to the effect mode being executed. In the example shown in FIG. 12A, since the performance mode being executed is “dwarf stage”, an image of “dwarf” is displayed.

  Subsequently, the gaming machine executes a directing effect. When the eye-pushing effect is executed, the gaming machine lowers the brightness of other areas except the area 1201 on the display screen in the display unit 104 (lowers the transmittance). As a result, the gaming machine shields other small reels other than the small reels (203c, 203f, 203i in the illustrated example) related to the press effect.

  Then, the gaming machine displays an image corresponding to the eye-opening effect on the entire display unit 104 in an area where the transmittance is low (an area other than the area 1201) (FIG. 12-2). In FIG. 12-2, it is assumed that the effect is a pressing effect that causes the player to press a specific symbol “Cherry”, and “Cherry Chance!” Is displayed in order to make the player aim for “Cherry”.

  Thereafter, when an operation from the player (for example, pressing of the chance button) is accepted, the gaming machine stops the small reels 203c, 203f, 203i related to the pressing effect with a specific outcome. In the example shown in FIG. 12C, the small reel 203f (middle stage) represents “cherry”, and the small reels 203c and 203i (upper and lower stages) represent “☆” that is a lost symbol.

  After accepting an operation from the player and stopping the small reels 203c, 203f, 203i with a specific outcome, the gaming machine executes a stage transition effect. When the stage transition effect is executed, the gaming machine lowers the brightness of the entire display unit 104 (lowers the transmittance), shields the reel 203 (all the small reels 203a to 203i), and performs the stage transition. The displayed image is displayed on the entire display unit 104 (FIG. 12-4). In FIG. 12-4, an image closed by the gate is displayed as an image indicating that the stage shift is performed. Thus, the player is informed that the stage transition effect is to be performed.

  Thereafter, an image is displayed such that the gate is gradually opened. At this time, the reel 203 and the frame-shaped image corresponding to the effect mode of the switching destination are gradually displayed as the gate opens. In the example shown in FIG. 12-5, since the effect mode being executed has shifted to “gate stage”, an image of “gate” is displayed. Thereby, the player is guided to the effect mode of the switching destination (stage of the transition destination). In the gaming machine, the small reels 203a to 203i are sequentially stopped in a predetermined order. Also, at this time, for example, an image that makes the stopped small reels 203a to 203i stand out by increasing the lightness (increasing the transmittance) of the portion overlapping the stopped (or stopped) small reels 203a to 203i. It may be displayed.

  Further, for example, the lightness of the portion overlapping with the reel 203 (small reels 203a to 203i) for which the losing symbol has already been determined is lowered (ie, the transmittance is lowered), so that the small reels 203a to 203i for which the losing symbol has been determined are not conspicuous. Such an image may be displayed.

  Further, the gaming machine may display on the display unit 104 an image for making it easier for the player to know what effect mode switching (stage transition) has occurred in the stage transition effect. FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram (No. 6) showing a specific example of the performance performed by the gaming machine of this embodiment. As shown in FIG. 13, in the present embodiment, a map image is displayed on the display unit 104 in order to make it easier for the player to understand what kind of effect mode switching (stage transition) has occurred.

On the map represented by this map image, points (or areas) corresponding to each effect mode are plotted. These points (or regions) are connected by a line image (for example, reference numerals 1301 and 1302) imitating a road. The effect modes connected by this line image indicate that they can be shifted to each other (adjacent effect modes).

  For example, in FIG. 13, “dwarf stage” and “gate stage” are connected by a line image 1301. For this reason, it shows that a transition is possible between the “dwarf stage” and the “gate stage”. On the other hand, the “dwarf stage” and the “demon king stage” are not connected by a line image. For this reason, it shows that there is no transition between the “dwarf stage” and “devil stage”.

  When the effect mode is switched, a line image that connects the effect mode before switching (for example, “dwarf stage”) and the effect mode after switching (for example, “gate stage”) is replaced with another line image. Compare and highlight. For example, in FIG. 13, the line image 1301 connecting the “dwarf stage” and the “gate stage” is displayed thicker than the other line image 1302 connecting the “dragon stage” and the “devil stage”. This indicates that there has been a transition from a “dwarf stage” to a “gate stage” or a transition from a “gate stage” to a “dwarf stage”. By referring to the map image of FIG. 13, the player can know what effect modes have been switched and what other effect modes are available.

  Further, in the above example, each layer having a hierarchical structure is configured by one effect mode, but a plurality of effect modes (a plurality of effect modes having the same expectation degree) may be provided in each layer. FIG. 14 is an explanatory diagram (No. 7) showing a specific effect example performed by the gaming machine of this embodiment.

  In FIG. 14, in the effect mode at the lowest layer, “mermaid stage” and “giant stage” are provided in addition to the above “dwarf stage”. In addition, in the effect mode that is one level above the effect mode in the lowermost layer, a “first gate stage” and a “second gate stage” are provided instead of the “gate stage” described above. These “dwarf stage”, “mermaid stage” and “giant stage” have the same degree of expectation, and have the same degree of expectation as “first gate stage” and “second gate stage”.

  In this way, a plurality of effect modes can be provided in each layer, and the effect modes in each layer can be switched. This makes it possible to combine production mode switching (vertical direction) that represents the degree of expectation with production mode switching (horizontal direction) within the hierarchy to improve the gaming machine's preference. A variety of patterns can be provided to further enhance the fun of the gaming machine.

  As described above, the gaming machine of this embodiment can suggest the current gaming state of the gaming machine to the player by switching the effect mode. As a result, even in the latent probability changing gaming state that does not notify that the probability changing gaming state (high probability state), the player's expectation for the latent probability changing gaming state, that is, the expectation for the next jackpot, Since the expectation can be maintained, the game can be enjoyed without boring the player who plays for a long time.

  Specifically, the gaming machine according to this embodiment uses the two guidelines of the occurrence mode switching (stage transition effect) occurrence probability and the contents of the switching-destination presentation mode, and the current gaming state in the gaming machine. Can be suggested to the player. Thereby, the gaming machine can indicate the current gaming state in the gaming machine to the player with one guideline (for example, only the contents of the effect mode at the switching destination) more clearly. Therefore, even in the latent probability changing game state, it is possible to increase the player's sense of expectation for jackpot and maintain this expectation, so that it is possible to entertain the game without boring the player who plays for a long time it can.

  Furthermore, the gaming machine of this embodiment is configured to perform a transfer destination lottery using a lottery table that determines the probability of transition to each production mode at a predetermined timing. Here, the transition probability to each effect mode is set to be different depending on the gaming state. For example, in the case of a high probability state such as a latent probability changing game state, a transfer destination lottery is performed using a lottery table set with a high transition probability to “Dragon Stage”. On the other hand, in the case of a low probability state such as a normal game state, a transfer destination lottery is performed using a lottery table set with a high transfer probability to “dwarf stage”.

  For this reason, in the transfer destination lottery, it is possible to make a difference between the production mode that easily shifts in the high probability state and the production mode that easily shifts in the low probability state. As a result, the production mode that is likely to shift in the high probability state can be changed to the production mode that has a high expectation level, and the production mode that is likely to transition in the low probability state can be designated as a production mode with a low expectation level. When the mode is switched to the production mode, it is possible to increase the player's expectation for the next jackpot and to entertain the game without boring the player who plays for a long time.

  In the gaming machine of this embodiment, a plurality of effect modes have a hierarchical structure, and the effect modes are switched between adjacent effect modes. Thereby, since it can switch to the production mode with high expectation level in stages, the player's expectation can be increased in stages, and the game can be enjoyed without boring the player.

  Furthermore, the gaming machine according to this embodiment can take an effect mode other than “Devil King Stage” even in a high probability state (probability variation game state, latent probability variation game state). This can prevent the player from feeling bored in the game in the high probability state. Specifically, if the player is convinced that he has transitioned to a high probability state, he will feel joy in this transition, but it will be like a digestive game until the subsequent game wins. . For this reason, even if the gaming machine is in a high probability state, by making it possible to take a production mode other than the “Demon King Stage”, the gaming machine does not confident that the player is in a high probability state. Maintaining the player's sense of excitement and keeping the player feeling bored in a game with a high probability state by staying within the scope of the assumption that there is no possibility of a low probability state. Can be prevented and the game can be enjoyed without boring the player who plays for a long time.

  As described above, according to the present invention, the present gaming state in the gaming machine can be suggested to the player by switching the effect mode, so that the latent probability changing game that does not notify the probability changing gaming state (high probability state). Even if it is in a state, the player's expectation for the latent probability change game state, that is, the expectation for the next jackpot can be increased and this expectation can be maintained, so that the player who plays for a long time is bored It is possible to entertain the game without.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 104 Display part 201 Liquid crystal display panel 202 Liquid crystal shutter 203 Reel 301 Main control part 302 Effect control part 303 Prize ball control part 501 Reception part 502 Detection part 503 Interlocking control part 504 Display control part 505 Reel control part

Claims (3)

Determining means for determining whether or not to play a special game advantageous to the player;
If it is determined by the determination means that the special game is to be performed, the display mode is an effect mode on the display screen that is one of the first effect mode, the second effect mode, and the third effect mode at a predetermined setting timing. Setting means for setting the production mode of
A game effect control means for performing a game effect according to the effect mode set by the setting means;
In order to determine an effect mode to be transferred using a transfer destination lottery table that determines the probability of transition to another effect mode at a predetermined transition occurrence timing when a predetermined effect mode is set by the setting means. Lottery means for performing the lottery of
The setting means sets a production mode according to the lottery result by the lottery means,
The lottery means is in a high-probability gaming state determined by the determination means to perform the special game with high probability, and a low-probability gaming state determined by the determination means to perform the special game with low probability The game machine is characterized in that a lottery is performed using a transition lottery table with different transition probabilities to other production modes. The lottery means includes the first effect mode having a high expectation level in the high probability gaming state, the second effect mode in which the expectation degree in the high probability game state is lower than the first effect mode, and the Setting one of the production modes of the third production mode in which the degree of expectation in the high probability gaming state is lower than that of the second production mode;
When the second effect mode is set by the setting means and the lottery means is in the high-probability gaming state, the lottery means determines the first effect than the probability of transition to the third effect mode. 2. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein a lottery is performed using a destination lottery table having a higher probability of transition to the production mode.   When the second effect mode is set by the setting means and the lottery means is in the low-probability gaming state, the lottery means determines the third effect rather than the transition probability to the first effect mode. 3. The gaming machine according to claim 2, wherein a lottery is performed using a destination lottery table having a higher probability of transition to the production mode.

Images