JP2001149559A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To permit a game player to play a game without a doubt by nearly simultaneously displaying all patterns to be changed or stopped in a pattern group. SOLUTION: A game machine such as a Pachinko machine is provided with a game control part 2 for outputting a display command to command a desired displaying when a desired condition is established and giving a privilege to the game player or a display control part 4 for receiving the outputted display command and displaying the change or stop of the pattern group 6a in a display part 6, or the like, as a control means. All the patterns for constituting the pattern group 6a are nearly simultaneously displayed in the display part 6. The control means displays at least a middle pattern 6d (a specified pattern) in the display part 6, which is for specifying the pattern to be a stop object among all the patterns constituting the group 6a. Then, all the patterns constituting the group 6a are nearly simultaneously displayed so that the game player distinctly recognizes whether concerned pattern exists or not or a probability for the privilege. Then the game player plays the game without having the doubt.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a gaming machine, and to a technique for displaying a symbol group on a display unit.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Japanese Patent Application No. 11-19299 discloses an example of a technique relating to a game machine including a pachinko machine. According to the technique disclosed in the publication, a plurality of symbols are simultaneously displayed in a specific display area, and the highlighted display is moved while highlighting at least one of the symbols. Therefore, although partly, the symbol group is changed in a specific display area. If a plurality of symbols include a symbol related to a jackpot (hereinafter, simply referred to as an “involved symbol”), the player can enjoy looking at the selected symbol by highlighting. it can.

[0003]

However, in the technology disclosed in the above publication, all the symbols constituting the symbol group to be changed are not displayed almost simultaneously in a specific display area. Since some of the symbols that constitute the symbol group are not displayed in a specific display area, the symbols may be involved symbols or symbols that are in a state advantageous to the player. Therefore, the player may have a doubt that he or she is losing because there is a symbol that is not displayed. The present invention has been made in view of such a point, and a game in which a player can play a game without doubt by displaying all the symbols to be changed or stopped almost simultaneously at the same time. The purpose is to provide a machine.

[0004]

Means 1 for Solving the Problems Means 1 for solving the problems are as described in claim 1. Here, the terms described in claim 1 are interpreted as follows. This interpretation applies to the other claims and the detailed description of the invention. (1) The “symbol group” is composed of at least two symbols. (2) “Stop” includes not only complete stop but also temporary stop. The "stop" state includes not only a case where the vehicle is stationary but also a case where the robot moves in an arbitrary direction and an arbitrary distance range around the reference position. (3) “Pattern” refers to special patterns (characters (alphanumeric characters, kanji, etc.), symbols, codes, figures (characters, etc.), images, etc.), ordinary patterns, decorative patterns (background patterns), etc. Or a moving image such as an animation. (4) The “display unit” may be all or a part of a portion of one display (or display device) capable of displaying a symbol. Further, the display device is not limited to one display device, and may be configured by a plurality of display devices. (5) “Specific symbol” means a symbol that can be at least a stop target among all symbols constituting the symbol group, and is used to identify an unspecified non-specific symbol. When the symbol group is changing, the contents of the specific symbol and the non-specific symbol change, and when the change is stopped, the specific symbol and the non-specific symbol are determined. As a method of identifying a specific symbol in relation to a non-specific symbol, for example, there is a method of changing the size, color, shape, pattern, etc. of the symbol.

[0005] According to the means 1, the control means displays all the symbols constituting the symbol group on the display unit almost simultaneously. This display makes it clear to the player whether or not there is the above-mentioned involved symbol, the possibility of giving a privilege, and the like, so that the player can play the game without any doubt. Further, the control means displays a specific symbol for specifying at least a symbol that can be a stop target among all symbols constituting the symbol group on the display unit. This display makes clear which of the symbols constituting the changing symbol group can be stopped.

[0006]

Means for solving the problem 2 Means for solving the problem are as described in claim 2. Here, the terms described in claim 2 are interpreted as follows. This interpretation applies to the other claims and the detailed description of the invention. (1) "Required conditions" means conditions that can be appropriately set according to the type, date and time, game state, etc. of the gaming machine. For example, during a high probability or during working hours, when the number of reserved balls reaches the upper limit (so-called full tank), the game ball wins or passes in a predetermined area, during a jackpot game, for a certain period after the end of the jackpot game, This corresponds to a case where an opening / closing member (a lid or a blade of a winning opening, a movable wing piece such as a so-called tulip) is open, and the like. The required condition may be fixed during the game or may be changed at a certain timing. (2) “Symbol arrangement” does not necessarily mean the order of the symbols in the symbol group, but also includes the display position and the display order on the display unit. (3) “Number of symbols” means the number of symbols that constitute a symbol group. (4) “Ratio of symbols” means the ratio (ratio) of symbols constituting a symbol group. (5) The “number of types of symbols” means the number of types of symbols constituting the symbol group, and for example, a symbol symbol and a symbol symbol are different types.

According to the means 2, when the required condition is satisfied, the control means changes at least one of the arrangement of the symbols constituting the symbol group, the number of the symbols, the ratio of the symbols, and the number of the types of the symbols. When the arrangement of the symbols changes in this way, the changed configuration of the symbol group is displayed on the display unit. Therefore, the player can clearly recognize that the configuration of the symbol group has changed, and can play the game without doubt.

[0008]

Means for solving the problem 3 Means for solving the problem are as described in claim 3. Here, the term "first timing" described in claim 3 includes a fixed timing and an indefinite timing. The certain timing corresponds to, for example, when a reach is reached, when a required period has elapsed from the start of the change, when all symbol synchronous changes are started, and the like. This interpretation applies to the other claims and the detailed description of the invention.

According to the means 3, when the first timing is reached, the control means displays all the symbols constituting the symbol group in a dotted manner along a predetermined line (straight line, curve, contour line, etc.). If the symbols are displayed based on a certain rule rather than being displayed separately, the player can easily grasp the arrangement of the symbols, the number of symbols, and the like. Therefore, the player can see the symbol group or individual symbols displayed on the display unit with a sense of security.

[0010]

Means 4 for solving the problem Means 4 for solving the problem are as described in claim 4. Here, the term "second timing" described in claim 4 is interpreted similarly to the above-described first timing. The first timing and the second timing may be substantially simultaneous timings,
The timing may be different. This interpretation applies to the other claims and the detailed description of the invention.

According to the means 4, when the second timing is reached, the control means specifies the at least one symbol among the symbols constituting the symbol group and sequentially moves the specific symbol relative to the symbol. indicate. That is, the state of the fluctuation and the stop of the symbol group is displayed. The specific symbol moves relative to the symbols that make up the symbol group, so when the display position of the symbols that make up the symbol group is almost fixed, the specific symbol moves and the display position of the specific symbol is almost fixed In this case, all the symbols constituting the symbol group move. In this way, all the symbols constituting the symbol group are clarified, and the player can visually recognize the fluctuation or stop of the symbol group.

[0012]

Means for solving the problem 5 Means for solving the problem are as described in claim 5. The means 5
According to the above, the control means sets at least one of the symbols constituting the symbol group as a specific symbol and displays the symbol as distinguishable from other symbols constituting the symbol group. That is, the specific symbol is a symbol constituting a symbol group. When the specific symbol is specified, it is displayed so as to be identifiable with another symbol, and when not specified, it is displayed in the same manner as the other symbol. An example in which the symbol is displayed so as to be distinguishable from another symbol corresponds to a case where the symbol size, color, shape, type, and the like are changed. Therefore, the player can clearly distinguish between the specified symbol and the unspecified symbol among the symbols constituting the symbol group. Also, by making the specific symbols and the symbols constituting the symbol group the same type,
Display control is simplified as compared with a mode of displaying with another type of symbol.

[0013]

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. In the present embodiment, the present invention is applied to a pachinko machine which is one of gaming machines. First, a description will be given with reference to FIG. 1 schematically showing the outline of the present invention. The gaming machine shown in FIG. 1 outputs a display command for instructing a required display when a required condition is satisfied, and a game control unit 2 for giving a privilege to a player, and a symbol group on a display unit 6 in response to the output display instruction. It has a display control unit 4 and the like for displaying the change or stop of 6a. In addition, as the requirement is satisfied,
For example, this corresponds to the fact that the game ball has won the starting port, that the symbol group 6a or the like has started to change, or that the reach has been reached. The game control unit 2 and the display control unit 4 together correspond to control means.

The symbols displayed almost simultaneously on the display unit 6 by the image editing performed by the display control unit 4 in the gaming machine configured as described above are as follows, for example. That is, in addition to the left symbol 6c and the right symbol 6e in which the changing symbol group 6a is stopped, the entire symbol group 6a that changes is displayed on the display unit 6. In the example of FIG. 1, all the symbol groups 6 a including eight numeral symbols from “1” to “8” are displayed on the display unit 6 almost at the same time. The numeral symbols are scattered along the predetermined line 6b, and the movement is realized by moving the symbols along the predetermined line 6b. At the time of the change, the symbols are sequentially moved relatively, and if a symbol that can be the middle symbol 6d is displayed larger than other symbols, it becomes easy to understand which symbol can be stopped as the middle symbol 6d. Then, when the moving symbol group 6a stops, the stopped symbol is displayed as the middle symbol 6d. In the example of FIG. 1, a numeral symbol “8” constituting the symbol group 6 a is displayed as a middle symbol 6 d in a substantially central portion of the display unit 6 larger than other symbols.

According to the above-described gaming machine, the following effects can be obtained. (1) Game control unit 2 and display control unit 4 (control means)
Displayed all the symbols constituting the symbol group 6a on the display unit 6 almost simultaneously. In addition, the game control unit 2 and the display control unit 4
Displays the middle symbol 6d (specific symbol) for identifying at least a symbol that can be a stop target among all symbols configuring the symbol group 6a by displaying the symbol larger than other symbols constituting the symbol group 6a. Displayed on the display unit 6. As described above, all the symbols constituting the symbol group 6a are almost simultaneously displayed on the display unit 6, so that it is clear to the player whether or not there is an involved symbol, a possibility of giving a privilege, and the like. Therefore, the player can play the game without doubt. (2) All the symbols constituting the symbol group 6a are displayed in a dotted manner along the predetermined line 6b. If the symbols are displayed based on a certain rule rather than being displayed separately, the player can easily grasp the arrangement of the symbols, the number of symbols, and the like. Therefore, the player can enjoy the symbol group 6a displayed on the display unit 6 with a sense of security.
Can be seen. (3) The middle symbol 6d (specific symbol) is displayed so as to sequentially move the symbols while identifying at least one symbol among the symbols constituting the symbol group 6a. Since the middle symbol 6d relatively moves with respect to the symbols constituting the symbol group 6a, when the display position of the symbols constituting the symbol group 6a is almost fixed, the middle symbol 6d moves, and the middle symbol 6d is moved. When almost fixed, all the symbols constituting the symbol group 6a move. In this way, all the symbols constituting the symbol group 6a are clarified, and the player is allowed to enter the symbol group 6a.
The change or stop of a can be visually recognized. (4) At least one of the symbols constituting the symbol group 6a is designated as a specific symbol and is displayed so as to be distinguishable from other symbols constituting the symbol group 6a. With this display, the player can clearly distinguish between the specified symbol and the unspecified symbol among the symbols constituting the symbol group 6a. Further, by making the middle symbol 6d (specific symbol) and the symbols constituting the symbol group 6a the same type, the display control is simplified as compared with a mode of displaying with another type of symbol.

Here, the following embodiment can be realized. Even in these modes, all the symbols to be changed or stopped, such as the symbol group 6a, are displayed almost simultaneously on the display unit 6.
, The player can play without doubt. (1) In the example shown in FIG. 1, the middle symbol 6d is displayed as a specific symbol by displaying the symbol group 6a larger than the other symbols constituting the symbol group 6a, but another display method that can be distinguished from the other symbols. May display a specific symbol. As another display method, for example, there is a method in which the color, shape, pattern, and the like of the pattern are made different, displayed together with the identification pattern of the character or the like, or a method in which at least two of these aspects are arbitrarily combined and displayed. With this other display method, it is easy to understand which symbol can be stopped as the middle symbol 6d. (2) The fluctuation of the symbol group 6a is realized by moving the symbols scattered along the predetermined line 6b composed of an ellipse.
b may be another line. The other lines include, for example, straight lines, curves, contour lines, and the like. Even when the symbols scattered along the other line are moved, the variation of the symbol group 6a can be realized. (3) Game control unit 2 and display control unit 4 (control means)
May change at least one of the arrangement of the symbols constituting the symbol group 6a, the number of the symbols, the ratio of the symbols, and the number of the types of the symbols when the required condition is satisfied. When the arrangement of the symbols is changed in this way, the changed configuration of the symbol group 6a is displayed on the display unit 6. Therefore, the player can clearly recognize that the configuration of the symbol group 6a has changed, and can play the game without doubt.

Next, an example in which the present invention is applied to a first-type pachinko machine, which is one of gaming machines, that is, an example in which all symbols constituting a symbol group are displayed almost simultaneously on a display unit will be described with reference to FIGS. This will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 2 is a front view showing the appearance of the pachinko machine 10 which is a first-class pachinko machine. On the game board surface 12 of the pachinko machine 10 shown in FIG. 2, a gate 32 having a gate sensor 58 for detecting a passing pachinko ball, passing ports 24 and 62 through which the pachinko ball can pass,
A first-type starting port 30 having a starting port sensor 60 for detecting a winning pachinko ball, a large winning port 34 having a lid 74 opened and closed by a solenoid 54, a special symbol display 22 and a holding ball lamp 20, 28, etc., and a general winning opening, a windmill, a nail, and the like are appropriately arranged. Below the game board surface 12,
An operation button 48 (operation unit) for a player to perform a required operation on the pachinko machine 10, a lower plate 44 for temporarily storing pachinko balls including award balls, an ashtray 46 for holding cigarette butts, etc., a player A handle 40 provided with a touch sensor 42 for detecting whether or not the user's hand is touching, a speaker 50 provided inside the upper plate 38 serving as a prize ball receiving tray and emitting sounds (sound effects, music, and the like). Further, a frame opening sensor 36 that detects the opening of the glass frame 18 (also referred to as “metal frame”).
Also, there are provided lamps 16 composed of luminous bodies arranged at appropriate positions in accordance with the game contents of the pachinko machine 10 and the like. Further, the upper plate 38 is provided with a ball lending switch 64 for commanding ball lending and a return switch 72 for commanding return of the prepaid card.

The passing port 24 provided on the game board surface 12 is provided with a normal symbol display 26 for displaying a normal symbol while changing or stopping the symbol. Normally, the symbol display 26 has one or a plurality of light emitters (for example, an LED emitting green or red light), and when a pachinko ball passes through the gate 32, the fluctuation starts and a predetermined period (for example, 10 seconds) elapses. Then it stops. Normally, the symbol is changed by, for example, blinking of a light emitting body. When the blinking light emitter stops in a specific state (for example, one LED is lit in red), the lid of the lower starting port 68 is opened for a certain period of time (for example, 4 seconds). In addition to the lid 74, the special winning opening 34 is provided with a V-zone 56 or a V-zone 56 that enables the jackpot game state to be continued within a required number of times (for example, 16 times) when the pachinko ball wins within the special winning opening period (for example, 20 seconds). , A normal winning port for simply paying out prize balls. In order to detect a winning pachinko ball, a V zone sensor 52 is provided in the V zone 56, and a winning sensor 70 is provided in the ordinary winning opening. A starting port sensor 66 for detecting a winning pachinko ball is provided below the special winning port 34.
A lower starting port 68 having The lower starting port 68
Has a function equivalent to that of the first type starting port 30. Each of the first-type starting port 30 and the lower starting port 68 pays out a prize ball in the same manner as a normal winning port when a pachinko ball wins.
Therefore, in the pachinko machine 10, when the pachinko ball wins in the first type starting port 30 and the lower starting port 68, the required condition is satisfied.

The compound device 14 includes a special symbol display 22 capable of displaying the change or stop of the symbol group, a holding ball lamp 20 for displaying the number of pachinko balls passing through the gate 32 during the change of the normal symbol, and a special symbol display. It has a holding ball lamp 28 and the like for displaying the number of pachinko balls (holding balls) that have won the first kind starting port 30 and the lower starting port 68 during the change. Hereinafter, the number that can be recognized by the display of the reserved ball lamp 28 is “the number of reserved balls”.
Call. The special symbol display 22 corresponding to the display unit 6 uses, for example, a liquid crystal display, and displays a special symbol such as a character, a symbol, a code, a figure, and a video, a decorative symbol, and the like. The special symbol displayed on the special symbol display 22 starts to fluctuate when a pachinko ball wins in the first type starting port 30 or the lower starting port 68, and stops after a predetermined time has elapsed. Although a liquid crystal display is used as the special symbol display 22, any display capable of displaying symbols, such as a CRT, an LED display, and a plasma display, may be used.
Further, although the normal symbol display 26 and the special symbol display 22 are used separately, the same display may be used for both.
Each of the retaining ball lamps 20 and 28 includes one or a plurality of light emitters (for example, four LEDs).

Next, a main control board 100 for realizing a pachinko game by the pachinko machine 10 and a special symbol in response to a display command (for example, a signal including a symbol to be stopped or a fluctuation pattern) sent from the main control board 100. Display 2
2 and a display control board 200 for displaying symbols will be described with reference to FIG.
These main control board 100 and display control board 20
0 corresponds to a control means, and each of them is, for example, a pachinko machine 10
It is provided on the back side of. In FIG. 3, a main control board 100 corresponding to the game control unit 2 includes a CPU (processor) 11.
ROM 112 that stores a game control program and required data (for example, a jackpot value), a RAM 114 that stores data such as various random numbers and signals, and receives signals transmitted from various input devices. Main control board 1
The input processing circuit 102 converts the data into a data format that can be processed in 00, the output processing circuit 104 receives the operation data sent from the CPU 110, and activates various output devices (for example, the solenoid 54), and the display sent from the CPU 110. A display control circuit 106 that receives data and appropriately controls (including lighting and blinking) a display and a light emitter, and a communication control circuit 11 that sends a required signal to the display control board 200.
6 and the like. These components are all connected to the bus 11
8 are connected to each other.

The CPU 110 executes a game control program stored in the ROM 112 to realize a game by the pachinko machine 10, and the game control program includes a program for realizing a procedure such as a type 1 start-up port process described later. Including. EPROM is used for the ROM 112, and RA
Although an SRAM is used for M114, another type of memory may be used. Other types of memories include EEPROM, DR
AM, flash memory, and the like. Input processing circuit 102
The input device for receiving the detection signal or the like includes, for example, the operation button 48, the starting port sensors 60 and 66, the gate sensor 5
8. There is a winning sensor (V zone sensor 52 or the like) or another sensor (frame open sensor 36, touch sensor 42 or the like). An output device from which the output processing circuit 104 outputs a signal includes, for example, the solenoid 54 and the like. Examples of the display object controlled by the display control circuit 106 include the lamps 16, the holding ball lamps 20 and 28, and the ordinary symbol display 26. The communication control circuit 116 can also send necessary data to a frame control board (not shown), a hall computer, and the like, if necessary.

Next, the display control board 200 corresponding to the display control section 4 is constituted mainly by the CPU 210, and has a display control program, required display data (for example, display information corresponding to a display command, a plurality of data including a deviation variation pattern). ROM 20 for storing fluctuation patterns, a plurality of reach patterns, etc.)
2. RA for storing display commands, display information, input / output signals, etc.
M204, a communication control circuit 206 that receives data sent from the main control board 100, a character generator 212 that stores required symbols and generates them upon receiving a command,
VDP (Video Displa) which displays the processed symbol on the special symbol display 22 in response to the display information sent from the PU 210
y Processor) 214 and the like. All of these components are coupled to each other on bus 208.

The CPU 210 executes a display control program stored in the ROM 202 to display symbols on the special symbol display 22. The display control program also includes a program for realizing a symbol display process described later. .
The ROM 202 uses an EPROM, and the RAM 204
Although a RAM is used, other types of memories described above may be used.
The communication control circuit 206 can send necessary data to a frame control board (not shown), a hall computer, and the like, if necessary. Character generator 21
The design data generated by 2 includes, for example, characters (alphanumeric characters, kanji, etc.), designs (special designs, ordinary designs, decorative designs, etc.), still images, moving images (animations, etc.), and videos. VDP21 with VRAM, palette RAM, etc.
4 is a character generator 212 receiving the display information.
Reads the design data generated by the VRAM and the palette R
After the symbol data is developed on the AM, a video signal, a synchronization signal, and the like are finally output to the special symbol display 22. At this time, by the sprite function realized by executing the sprite process, a plurality of symbols can be scattered along a predetermined line, and the plurality of symbols can be moved along the predetermined line to realize a variation of the symbol group.

The frame control board and other boards for controlling the operation of various devices in response to the command signal sent from the main control board 100 are not shown or described because they are not related to the gist of the present invention. I do. Examples of the various devices include a launching device that launches a pachinko ball when the handle 40 is operated, and a payout device that pays out a pachinko ball for lending a ball or winning a ball.

A procedure performed by the main control board 100 to realize the present invention in the pachinko machine 10 configured as described above will be described with reference to FIGS. Here, FIG. 4 shows a procedure of the first-type starting port processing for realizing the winning determination of the pachinko ball for the first-type starting port 30.
FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing the procedure of the reach process for realizing the fluctuation based on the reach display and the reach pattern. All of these processes are realized by the CPU 110 executing the game control program stored in the ROM 112 of the main control board 100 shown in FIG. 4 at an appropriate timing (for example, every 4 milliseconds). For simplicity of explanation, the first type starting port 30 and the lower type starting port 6
8 operates in the same manner, and the first type starting port 30 will be described as an example. Further, in an actual pachinko machine, when a pachinko ball wins in the first-type starting port 30 while the symbol group on the special symbol display 22 fluctuates, a predetermined number (for example, four) of the pachinko balls is retained and the reserved ball lamp 28 is turned on. I do. Then, after the symbol group has been changed, the symbol group is continuously changed within the range of the number of reserved balls. For the sake of simplicity, the present specification will be described on the assumption that all the reserved ball lamps 28 are turned off and only one pachinko ball has won the first-type starting port 30 or the like. .

In the first-type starting port process shown in FIG. 4, it is first determined whether or not a pachinko ball has won the first-type starting port 30 (step S10). Specifically, when a detection signal is received from the starting port sensor 60 shown in FIGS.
ES), and if no detection signal is received, it is determined that no winning has been made (NO). When the pachinko ball wins in the first kind opening 30 (YES), various random numbers are read and stored [Step S12]. The various random numbers include, for example, a jackpot determination random number RA used to determine whether or not a jackpot, and a special symbol display 22 when the jackpot determination random number RA determines that a jackpot has been determined.
And changes after reaching reach according to the jackpot symbol random number RB used to identify the jackpot symbol (combination of specific symbols) displayed on the special symbol indicator 22, the reach symbol (combination of predetermined symbols) displayed on the special symbol indicator 22, and the like. And a reach pattern random number RC used to specify a display pattern until the display is stopped. In addition, "reach" or "reach state" is a state that is likely to be a big hit, and other special symbols (first symbol, second symbol) except for the remaining special symbol (third symbol) which is still fluctuating. Means a state that matches the reach symbol.

Next, it is determined whether or not it is a "big hit" (step S14). Specifically, the determination is made based on whether or not the jackpot determination random number RA read and stored in step S12 matches the jackpot value. The number of jackpots is one in the normal state, but may be increased to a plurality depending on the game state (for example, probability fluctuation). If it is determined to be "big hit" (YES), the random number RB for big hit symbol stored in step S12 is read (step S16), and the symbol group changes (hereinafter, referred to as "symbol change").
The process proceeds to step S18 to be described later to start. In accordance with the value of the jackpot symbol random number RB, a symbol that is to be finally stopped and determined (hereinafter, referred to as a “scheduled symbol to be stopped”) is determined. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S14 that "losing" has occurred (NO), the missing symbol is displayed on the special symbol display 22.
After displaying the lost symbol data from the RAM 114 (step S30), it is determined whether or not the lost symbol includes a reach symbol (step S32).
The reach symbol is the first on the line (yayaru effective line) that allows the player to determine whether or not a big hit has occurred when the symbol change is stopped.
A combination of a symbol (for example, a left symbol) and a second symbol (for example, a right symbol) corresponds to the same symbol (so-called zigzag) in many pachinko machines 10. If a reach symbol is included (YES), the game eventually reaches “missing” but reaches the middle of the game, so the process proceeds to step S18 described later.
If the reach symbol is not included (NO), a symbol change is started as in step S18 described later [step S3.
4], and after a while, a missing symbol is displayed [Step S]
36], and the process proceeds to Step S22 described later.

A short while after the display command is sent to the display control board 200 and the symbol variation is started [Step S1
8], and execute a reach process [Step S20]. The specific contents of the reach processing will be described with reference to FIG. In the reach processing shown in FIG. 5, first, the reach pattern random number RC stored in step S12 of FIG. 4 is read [step S40], and the reach pattern is determined [step S42]. The reach pattern is a pattern in which symbols are changed after the reach, and a plurality of reach patterns are stored in, for example, the ROM 202 in FIG. The reach pattern is determined according to the first data table stored in the ROM 112 or the like based on, for example, the symbol to be stopped determined in step S16 (or step S30) in FIG. 4 and the reach pattern random number RC read in step S40. decide.

After the reach pattern is determined, the symbol variation is continued based on the variation pattern (step S44), and the reach symbol is displayed (step S46). The variation pattern is a pattern for realizing design variation such as a special symbol and displaying an animation (decorative symbol) or the like, like the reach pattern, and is determined using, for example, a random number or a second data table. The symbol fluctuation includes a normal fluctuation of a mode in which a reel is rotated, a forward / reverse fluctuation of a mode in which the reel swings in an arbitrary direction around a predetermined position on the screen, and a whole pattern fluctuation in a mode in which the fluctuation is performed almost in synchronism with a symbol group. and so on. Further, in the case where the fluctuation is performed in each of the plurality of fluctuation areas, the data includes the fluctuation speed and the fluctuation direction during the fluctuation, the stop timing, the order, and the like. In an example in which the order of symbols to be stopped when the variation patterns are different is different, a sense of expectation of expecting a reach, a big hit, or the like may occur in accordance with the order of stop. In this example, the reach symbol is displayed only on the special symbol display 22. However, the reach symbol may be displayed only on another display or on both displays. In this aspect, the reach symbol and the like are also displayed on a display other than the special symbol display 22, so that it is easy to recognize what the reach symbol is. In addition, as means for notifying the player that the player has reached the reach, for example, a sound or a specific sound effect
There are modes such as starting from 0 and vibrating the handle 40 touched by the player or the chair on which the player sits. In this way, the player can more reliably recognize that the player has reached the reach.

After the reach symbol is displayed, the reach symbol is changed (step S48). The change includes, for example, reduction, outline display, transparency or translucency, and movement of the special symbol display 22 to the peripheral portion. These modes of change may be changed in only one of the modes, or may be changed by arbitrarily combining a plurality of modes. In the case of performing a plurality of aspects, they may be changed at the same time, or may be changed continuously or discontinuously in order.
For example, when performing reduction and movement, any of a form of moving after reducing, a form of reducing after moving, and a form of performing reduction and movement simultaneously may be used. When the change mode is configured to be selectable, the change mode may be changed each time the symbol is changed or according to the game state, or may be configured to be selectable by the player who operates the operation button 48. Further, the change may be performed for all or a part of the reach symbol, or may be partially performed for one reach symbol. When the reach symbol is changed in this way, the region in which the symbol change is performed while all the symbols constituting the symbol group that is still changing is displayed almost simultaneously, or the symbols constituting the symbol group become easy to see. Furthermore, since the form of the reach symbol is maintained, it is possible to maintain legibility even when compared with the reach symbol before the change. In the reach processing shown in FIG. 5, the reach pattern is always changed when the reach is reached, but the random number (for example, the random number RA for jackpot determination) or the third
It may be determined whether or not the reach symbol is changed according to the data table or the game state. In this way, the reach symbol changes at a specific time, so that the player can have a sense of expectation.

After the reach symbol is changed, all symbols constituting the symbol group which is still fluctuating are displayed almost simultaneously (step S50), and the symbol group is changed to step S4.
The symbol is changed (or continued) according to the reach pattern determined in step 2 (step S52). Step S
In 50, all symbols constituting the symbol group may be displayed on the special symbol display 22 as a result. That is, all the symbols constituting the symbol group may appear one by one (or two or more predetermined numbers), or all the symbols may appear at one time. By this display, a player or the like can recognize which symbol is a symbol group that is still fluctuating. Therefore, it becomes clear to the player etc. whether there is a pattern involved in the jackpot or whether the possibility of giving a privilege is high or low, so that the player etc. can play the game without doubt it can.

In the symbol change in step S52, the following mode may be arbitrarily performed. (1) It is easy for a player or the like to identify a symbol that can be stopped as at least a third symbol (for example, a middle symbol) among all symbols constituting the symbol group. That is, a part of the symbols constituting the symbol group is displayed as a specific symbol that can be easily distinguished from other symbols. The method of displaying as a specific design is, for example, to make the size, color, shape, design, etc. of the design different from other designs, to display them together with the identification design of a character or the like, or to arbitrarily change at least two of these aspects. There is a method of displaying in combination. By performing such display, it becomes clear at which symbol the third symbol can stop, or at which symbol the third symbol has stopped. (2) The variation speed of the symbol variation may be changed according to the reach pattern. For example, the fluctuation speed is changed stepwise, or is gradually increased or decreased. This way,
The player can play while expecting to stop at a more advantageous symbol. (3) The constituent elements (symbols) of the symbol group may be changed at the time of symbol fluctuation. That is, the contents of the symbols may be changed, or the number of symbols as constituent elements may be increased or decreased. For example, the number of symbols constituting the symbol group is reduced by increasing the number of symbols that are advantageous to the player or by reducing the number of symbols that are disadvantageous to the player. In this way, the player can play the game while expecting a bonus due to the jackpot.

After the symbols constituting the symbol group are changed based on the reach pattern in such a manner that the symbols can be visually recognized, the symbol group which is still fluctuating is stopped (step S54), and the reach process is terminated. By executing step S54,
The third symbol (for example, middle symbol) stops on the special symbol indicator 22, and the special symbol (left symbol, middle symbol, right symbol) is determined. Therefore, the player can recognize which symbol has been determined, but in order to make it easier to recognize, it is more preferable to display the determined symbol in an enlarged manner.

When the reach process is completed, the process returns to FIG. 4, and it is determined whether or not a big hit has occurred (step S22). In the case of the pachinko machine 10 which is less susceptible to extraneous noise and the like and has a high reliability, it is determined whether or not a “big hit” is based on the above-described random number RA for big hit determination. In addition, you may determine whether it is a big hit according to whether the special symbol actually displayed on the special symbol display 22 matches a big hit symbol as needed. If it is a "big hit" (YES), after the big hit processing is performed [step S24], the first type start port is ended. The jackpot process is, for example,
The lid 74 is opened only for a predetermined period (for example, 30 seconds) to realize a jackpot game such as paying out a prize ball according to the number of winning pachinko balls. Since the procedure of the jackpot process is well known, its description and illustration are omitted. Note that if the pachinko ball has not won the first-type opening 30 in the determination in step S10 (NO), or if the ball has been lost in the determination in step S22 (NO), the first-type opening processing ends. I do.

Next, an example of a mode in which the respective processes shown in FIGS. 4 and 5 are executed to display symbols on the special symbol display 22 will be described with reference to FIGS. The examples shown in FIGS. 6 to 8 show an example of a case where a "big hit" occurs. For the sake of simplicity, many "missing" cases are not shown or described. In this example, the symbol group is changed or stopped in each of three (plural) change regions.

When the pachinko ball wins the first kind starting port 30, after the symbol change is started almost simultaneously in three change regions based on the change pattern as shown in FIG.
In step S18, the symbol variation is stopped in a part of the variation area (step S46 in FIG. 5). In the example of FIG.
The special symbol “7” is displayed on the left symbol 80 and the right symbol 84, respectively, and the reach is achieved. When the reach symbol (left symbol 80 and right symbol 84) is stopped and displayed,
After the predetermined time has elapsed (or immediately after the display), the reach symbol is changed {Step S48 in FIG. 5}. In the example shown in FIGS. 6B to 6C, the left symbol 8
0 moves in the lower left direction (arrow D2 direction) while shrinking, and the right symbol 84 also shrinks in the lower right direction (arrow D).
(4 directions), and is displayed in a reduced state on the periphery of the special symbol display 22.

After that, the symbol fluctuation is continued in the remaining fluctuation area in accordance with the reach pattern, and the fluctuation speed is reduced as shown in FIG. Then, after displaying an animation in which a large explosion occurs as shown in FIG. 7 (B), all the symbols constituting the symbol group 86 are specially changed with respect to the symbol variation performed in the remaining variation area as shown in FIG. 7 (C). Display on the symbol display 22 (Step S50 in FIG. 5). The symbols constituting the symbol group 86 (hereinafter, simply referred to as “configuration symbols”) appear a predetermined number (one or two or more) or all symbols at once. If the degree of expectation is changed according to the number of constituent symbols appearing by a predetermined number, the time required for appearance, and the like, the player will look with a sense of expectation.
In the example of FIG. 7 (C), the appearing symbols are displayed dotted along a predetermined line 88 formed of an ellipse. The constituent symbols displayed in this way realize a symbol change by moving along the predetermined line 88. In the example shown in FIGS. 7 (C) and 8 (A), when all the constituent symbols move clockwise (in the direction of arrow D6) and move to a position or range where the third symbol can be formed, the image is enlarged and displayed. In the example of FIG. 7 (C), the configuration symbol “8”
However, in the example of FIG. 8A, the configuration symbol “7” is enlarged and displayed. The configuration symbol enlarged and displayed in this way corresponds to a specific symbol for specifying a symbol that can be a stop target.

The third symbol (middle symbol) may be displayed by changing the symbol by moving the constituent symbol along the predetermined line 88 and reducing the speed of the symbol as it is. However, in order to increase the player's sense of expectation, the constituent elements of the symbol group 86 may be changed. As an aspect of the change,
For example, there is a mode of changing the configuration pattern. FIG. 8 (B)
Shows an animation in which both the constituent symbols “6” and “8” change to the constituent symbol “7” together with the small explosion.
If the reach symbol is "77" when the jackpot symbol is "777", the degree of expectation is increased by increasing the number of constituent symbols "7". That is, the probability of a jackpot has increased from 1/8 to 3/8. Therefore, the expectation of the player is also increased. Thereafter, when the symbol group 86 that has still fluctuated is stopped (step S54 in FIG. 5), the symbol group 86 is displayed, for example, as shown in FIG. 8C. That is, in the example shown in FIG. 8 (C), the configuration symbol “7” is stopped as the middle symbol 82, and constitutes the big hit symbol together with the reach symbol (left symbol 80, right symbol 84). Therefore, since the jackpot game is performed later (step S24 in FIG. 4), the player is given an opportunity to acquire many prize balls.

According to the above embodiment, the following effects can be obtained. (1) According to the first aspect, the main control board 100 and the display control board 200 (control means) display all the symbols constituting the symbol group 86 almost simultaneously on the display unit {steps S50 in FIG. 5, FIG. (C), see FIG. This display makes it clear to the player whether or not there is an involved symbol, the possibility of giving a privilege, and the like, so that the player can play the game without any doubt. The main control board 100 and the display control board 200 include a symbol group 86.
Of the symbols that can be stopped among all the symbols constituting the image are displayed on the special symbol display 22 (display unit) as a specific symbol. {Steps S50 and S52 in FIG. 5, FIG. 7 (C), FIG. 8 (A) and so on. This display makes clear which of the symbols constituting the symbol group 86 fluctuating can be stopped. (2) According to claim 2, when the reach is reached (the required condition is satisfied), the main control board 100 and the display control board 200 change the ratio of the symbols constituting the symbol group 86 {step in FIG. S52, see FIG. That is, both the constituent symbols “6” and “8” were changed to the constituent symbol “7” to increase the proportion of the constituent symbol “7”. When the ratio of the constituent symbols changes in this way, the changed symbol group 86
Is displayed on the special symbol display 22. Therefore, the player can clearly recognize that the configuration of the symbol group 86 has changed, and can play the game without doubt. (3) According to the third aspect, when the fluctuation speed of the symbol fluctuation decreases after the reach (the first timing is reached), the main control board 100 and the display control board 200 determine all the symbols constituting the symbol group 86 in a predetermined manner. Displayed dotted along the line 88 {step S50 in FIG. 5, FIG. 7 (C), FIG.
See (A) etc. 等. If the constituent symbols are displayed based on a certain rule rather than being displayed separately, the player can easily grasp the arrangement of the constituent symbols, the number of the constituent symbols, and the like. Therefore, the player can see the symbol group 86 or the individual component symbols displayed on the special symbol display 22 with a sense of security. (4) According to claim 4, after displaying all the constituent symbols of the symbol group 86 almost simultaneously (when the second timing is reached), the main control board 100 and the display control board 200 are displayed.
7 shows at least one symbol among the symbols constituting the symbol group 86, and displays a specific symbol so that the symbol is sequentially moved. {Steps S50, S52 in FIG.
(C), see FIG. That is, when all the constituent symbols move clockwise and further move to a position or range where the third symbol can be formed, the pattern is enlarged and displayed to show the state of the change and stop of the symbol group 86. Since the display position of the specific symbol is almost fixed, all the constituent symbols move. In this way, all the constituent symbols are clarified, and the player can visually recognize the fluctuation or stop of the symbol group 86. (5) According to the fifth aspect, the main control board 100 and the display control board 200 identify at least one of the symbols constituting the symbol group 86 as a specific symbol and distinguish it from other symbols constituting the symbol group 86. Displayed as possible {see steps S50 and S52 in FIG. 5, FIG. 7 (C), FIG. 8 (A), etc.}. That is, the specific symbol is one of the constituent symbols, and when specified, is displayed larger than the other structural symbols so as to be identifiable, and when not specified, is displayed in the same size as the other structural symbol. did. Therefore, the player can clearly distinguish the specified symbol from the non-specified symbols among all the constituent symbols. In addition, by setting the specific symbol as one of the constituent symbols (the same type), the display control is simplified as compared with a mode of displaying with another type of symbol.

[Other Embodiments] The above-described pachinko machine 1
In 0 (gaming machine), the structure, shape, size, material, arrangement, operating conditions, and the like of other parts are not limited to the above-described embodiment. For example, each of the following embodiments to which the above embodiment is applied may be implemented. (1) In the above embodiment, the present invention is applied to the pachinko machine 10. Instead of this form, a game machine other than a pachinko machine (for example, a slot machine, an arrangement ball machine, a sparrow ball game machine, a video game machine, etc.) having a display unit and a control means is similarly provided. The present invention can be applied. Even with the other gaming machines, the symbols to be changed or stopped are displayed almost simultaneously on the display unit, so that the player can play the game without any doubt.

(2) In the above embodiment, the middle design 82
The symbol of the symbol group 86 used for specifying the (third symbol) is displayed on the special symbol display 22 (display unit 6) almost simultaneously (step S50 in FIG. 5). Instead of (or in addition to) this form, the special symbol display 22 displays the constituent symbols of the symbol group used to specify the left symbol 80 (first symbol) and the right symbol 84 (second symbol) almost simultaneously. You may. In this way, the presence or absence of the involved symbols and the degree of expectation can be easily determined by the configuration of the left symbol 80 and the right symbol 84, so that the player can play the game without any doubt. Furthermore, if necessary, exchange, move, copy (including not only the same symbol, but also different symbols having the same meaning even if the symbols are different) between the symbol groups at any timing. By doing so, the configuration of the symbol group is diversified.
Since the structure of the symbol group is displayed almost at the same time, it is possible to know how it has changed, and the player can play the game without any doubt. In addition, special design (left design 80, middle design 82,
Although applied to the right symbol 84), it may be applied to a symbol other than the special symbol (for example, a normal symbol or a chance symbol). In this way, the possibility of the privilege based on the ordinary symbol and the degree of the probability variation depending on the chance symbol are known, so that the player can play the game without any doubt.

(3) In the above embodiment, the ratio of the constituent symbols belonging to the symbol group 86 is changed. {Step S in FIG.
52｝. Instead of (or in addition to) this embodiment, at least one of the arrangement of the constituent symbols, the number of symbols, and the number of types of symbols may be changed. An example of this change will be described below. In any of the aspects, substantially the same effect as in the above embodiment can be obtained. (3a) FIG. 9 shows an example before changing the arrangement of the constituent symbols
FIG. 8A shows an example after the arrangement of the constituent symbols is changed.
(C) shows each. Since the pattern “7” is concentrated by the change in the arrangement, the player's expectation of the jackpot is increased. (3b) FIG. 7 shows an example before changing the number of constituent symbols.
FIG. 9C shows an example after changing the number of constituent symbols.
(B) shows each. Since the symbol “7” is increased by the change in the number, the player's expectation of the big hit is increased. (3c) FIG. 7 shows an example before changing the number of types of configuration symbols.
FIG. 9C shows an example after changing the number of types of the configuration symbols.
(C) shows each. The symbol “☆” is increasing due to the change in the number of types. If the symbol “☆” is defined as an almighty symbol (that is, a symbol that can form a jackpot with any symbol), the player's expectation of the jackpot increases.

(4) In the above-described embodiment, the symbol change is realized by substantially fixing the display position of the specific symbol and moving the symbols constituting the symbol group 86 {step S in FIG.
50, S52, see FIGS. 7 (C) and 8 (A)}. Instead of (or in addition to) this mode, the display position of the constituent symbols of the symbol group 86 may be substantially fixed, and the symbol change may be realized by moving the specific symbol. For example, FIG. 7 (C) in which the specific symbol (symbol “8”) is located at the bottom.
When the specific symbol moves clockwise by one symbol from the state shown in FIG. 10 along the predetermined line 88, the state shown in FIG. 10 is obtained. In this case, each constituent symbol of the symbol group 86 is fixed at a substantially constant position. Even in the case of changing the design in this mode, it is possible to obtain substantially the same effects as those of the above embodiment.

(5) In the above-described embodiment, when a specific symbol is specified, it is made larger than the other constituent symbols, and when not specified, it is displayed in the same size as the other structural symbols, so that a specific symbol and a non-specific symbol are displayed. Are displayed so as to be identifiable {see steps S50 and S52 in FIG. 5, FIGS. 7C and 8A, etc.}. Instead of (or in addition to) this form, the specific symbol and the non-specific symbol may be displayed so as to be distinguishable by changing the color, shape, type, and the like. For example, identification display is possible in the following example. In this case, substantially the same effects as those of the above embodiment can be obtained. (5a) As shown in FIG. 11 (A), when specified, it is displayed in a different color (shown by hatching) from the other configuration symbols, and when not specified, it is displayed in the same color as the other configuration symbols I do. Therefore, identification becomes easy by the difference in color. (5b) As shown in FIG. 11 (B), when specified, it is displayed together with the identification symbol 90, and when not specified, it is displayed without the identification symbol 90 in the same manner as the other constituent symbols. Therefore, identification is facilitated by the presence or absence of the identification symbol 90. FIG.
In the example of (B), the identification symbol 90 is a square symbol, but an arbitrary symbol such as a symbol having another shape or a character may be used. (5c) It is possible to inform a player or the like of a specific design acoustically through a speaker 50, or to inform a player or the like of a specific design tactilely by vibration or the like with a handle 40 having a vibration member. There is a way to notify using the five senses.

(6) In the above embodiment, the constituent symbols of the symbol group 86 are scattered along the predetermined line 88 composed of an ellipse,
The symbols were changed {steps S50 and S52 in FIG.
See FIG. 7 (C), FIG. 8 (A), etc. Instead of (or in addition to) this form, the symbols in the symbol group 86 may be scattered along another type of predetermined line to perform symbol fluctuation. Examples of other types of predetermined lines include geometric figures such as circles, triangles, and rectangles, straight lines (including line segments), curves (including open curves, closed curves, interpolation curves, and the like), characters, and arbitrary figures. And the like. Even when such another type of predetermined line is used, it is possible to obtain substantially the same effect as in the above embodiment. Further, the constituent symbols of the symbol group 86 are not limited to the two-dimensional display, but may be a three-dimensional display. In this case, if the display pattern is configured such that the configuration symbol moves in the front-rear direction with respect to the front of the pachinko machine 10,
A three-dimensional effect is even better.

(7) Regarding the techniques (2) to (6) described above, it is more preferable to change the technical content when the degree of expectation changes. For example, in the technique (2), the degree of expectation is changed depending on which of the left symbol 80, the middle symbol 82, and the right symbol 84 is to be displayed as a symbol group to be displayed on the special symbol display 22 almost simultaneously. In this way, the player can play the game with a sense of expectation for the privilege, depending on which symbol the constituent symbols are displayed almost simultaneously.

[0047]

According to the present invention, all the symbols to be changed or stopped are displayed almost simultaneously on the display unit, so that the player can play the game without any doubt.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a diagram schematically showing an outline of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a front view showing the appearance of the pachinko machine.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of a main control board and a display control board.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure of a first-type start-up process.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing a procedure of a symbol variation process.

FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a display example.

FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a display example.

FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a display example.

FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a display example.

FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a display example.

FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a display example.

[Description of Signs] 2 Game control unit 4 Display control unit 6 Display unit 6a Symbol group 6b Predetermined line 6c Left symbol 6d Middle symbol 6e Right symbol 10 Pachinko machine (game machine) 22 Special symbol display (display unit) 26 Normal symbol Display 80 left symbol 82 middle symbol 84 right symbol 86 symbol group 88 predetermined line 100 main control board (control means) 110, 210 CPU 112, 202 ROM 114, 204 RAM 200 display control board (control means) 212 character generator 214 VDP

 ────────────────────────────────────────────────── ─── Continuing on the front page (72) Inventor Shuichi Ikegami No. 1 Nishinokawa, Okimura, Nishiharu-cho, Nishikasugai-gun, Aichi F-term in Daiichi Shokai Co., Ltd. (Reference) 2C088 AA33 AA34 AA35 AA42 BA09 EB44 EB55

Claims (5)

[Claims] 1. A gaming machine having a display unit for displaying a change or a stop of a symbol group and a control unit for controlling a display relating to a change or a stop of the symbol group, wherein the control unit comprises the symbol group A gaming machine that displays all symbols to be displayed almost simultaneously on the display unit, and displays, on the display unit, a specific symbol for specifying at least a symbol that can be a stop target among all symbols constituting the symbol group. 2. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein when a required condition is satisfied, the control means controls at least one of an array of symbols constituting the symbol group, the number of symbols, the ratio of symbols, and the number of symbol types. To change the gaming machine. 3. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein when the first timing is reached, the control means displays all the symbols constituting the symbol group in a dotted manner along a predetermined line. 4. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein when the second timing is reached, the control means specifies at least one symbol from the symbols constituting the symbol group, sequentially. A gaming machine that displays a specific symbol so that the symbol moves relatively. 5. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the control means sets at least one of the symbols constituting the symbol group as a specific symbol, and controls the symbol group. Gaming machines that can be distinguished from the symbol of the game.