JP2002200267A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine for giving new interest in a game process and increasing the expectation and spiritual tension of a player. SOLUTION: In the case that the variation in patterns displayed at a left pattern display column 110 and a right pattern display column 150 is stopped and a ready-to-win line is formed on a line L1, a special pattern continuously varying at a center pattern display column 130 is changed to a stop-timing advance announcement pattern for which the character of '3 more' is indicated and displayed by the appearance of a character 70 as a trigger. When the stop- timing advance announcement pattern of '3 more' is displayed, after three patterns are displayed at the center pattern display column 130, variation in the pattern is stopped and a prescribed display mode is formed.

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 more particularly, to a gaming machine that displays a pattern on a display unit by changing the pattern.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art In a type 1 pachinko machine, which is one of gaming machines, when a pachinko ball wins or passes through a predetermined area, a plurality of symbol display areas (for example, a left symbol display) on a display unit (for example, a special symbol display) are displayed. Column, middle symbol display column, right symbol display column)
The symbol displayed in starts changing. When the symbols in each symbol display column stop changing and the jackpot symbol array is displayed (for example, three symbols of the same type stop on one line), it is called a "big hit". A case where a symbol array other than the above (missing symbol array) is formed is called “losing”. Also, for example, two of the three symbol display columns
(For example, the left symbol display column and the right symbol display column) stop,
A case where a symbol array that recognizes the possibility of forming a jackpot symbol array on one line (hereinafter referred to as a “reach line”) is displayed is referred to as “reach”.

[0003] In such a pachinko machine (game machine), the effect from the start of the change of the symbol to the stop of the change in the state of a loss or a big hit is simple, and a player waiting for the stop of the change. It was a factor that spoiled the interest in games. Therefore, conventionally, a technique is used in which a specific symbol or character is displayed as a part of the background or decoration of the display unit during the symbol change, thereby notifying the player of the timing at which the symbol change is stopped or the like. Had been.
However, even when such a conventional technique is used, the player usually pays close attention to a special symbol for exclusively displaying information relating to the award of the privilege, and a symbol for notifying a timing at which the symbol change stops. Even if the player tries to attract the player's attention by displaying the information, the player overlooks or does not notice, so that the interest of the game cannot be increased by one step.

[0004]

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made in view of the above points, and an object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine that displays symbols by changing them on a display unit. It is an object of the present invention to provide a gaming machine capable of notifying a player of a stop timing or the like so that the player can easily recognize the timing, and increasing a player's sense of expectation and urgency.

[0005]

A first invention of the present application for solving the above-mentioned problems is a gaming machine as set forth in claim 1. Here, the terms described in claim 1, other claims and the detailed description of the invention are interpreted as follows. (1) “Symbols” include not only special symbols but also all symbols (characters such as alphanumeric characters, kanji, and kana, symbols, pictures, graphics, etc.) displayed on the display unit in relation to the game, such as ordinary symbols. , Still images, moving images, etc.). Further, the number of symbols is not limited to one, but includes a plurality of symbols. (2) The “display section” includes not only one special symbol display but also a plurality of special symbol indicators. When displaying a plurality of symbols, there is a mode in which all the symbols are displayed on one special symbol display, and a mode in which a plurality of symbols are respectively displayed on the plurality of special symbol displays. (3) “Stop” includes not only complete stop (still) but also temporary stop. In addition, the stopped state includes not only a stationary state but also a state in which the movable body moves in an arbitrary direction and in an arbitrary distance range around a fixed reference position or an indefinite reference position. (4) The "symbol display column" is a portion for displaying a symbol column formed in the direction of the change with the change of the symbol on a display unit such as a special symbol display. Usually, a symbol display column is formed in the vertical direction toward the display unit, but this also includes a case where the symbol display column is formed in the horizontal direction toward the display unit and the symbol fluctuates. (5) The "big hit symbol arrangement" is to give a predetermined privilege (for example, a big hit game) to a player when the display unit stops changing and is determined in this symbol arrangement. In general, a case where the same symbols are fixed on the line is called "big hit symbol arrangement". On the other hand, the "missing symbol array" is a symbol array other than the "big hit symbol array". Also,
The "reach symbol array" refers to a symbol array in a reach state where there is a possibility of forming a big hit symbol array, and generally, the same symbols are arranged in the symbol display columns other than the symbol display column that stops changing at the end. And stop.

According to the first aspect of the present invention, the symbol group includes a stop timing notice symbol for notifying a player of a timing at which the symbol group displayed while changing on the display unit stops. Is displayed as shown. The “symbol group” is a group constituted by a plurality of symbols (for example, a special symbol in a first-class pachinko machine) for displaying information relating to a privilege that is advantageous to the player. When three symbols of the same type are displayed together on one line among the included symbols, a "big hit" is given, and a big hit game which is a privilege that is advantageous to the player is given. Since the player has great interest in whether or not a “big hit” will occur, it is usual to watch the fluctuation of the symbol group directly related to the grant of the privilege. Therefore, when the stop timing notice symbol is displayed so as to be included in the symbol group, the player recognizes the stop timing notice symbol without missing. By being able to reliably recognize the stop timing notice symbol, the player can know in advance the stop timing at which the change of the symbol group stops, and the expectation and urgency of the game are further increased.

A second invention of the present application is a gaming machine as described in claim 2. According to the gaming machine described in claim 2, at least a part of the symbols included in the symbol group is changed to the stop timing announcement symbol, so that the stop timing announcement symbol is displayed so as to be included in the symbol group. Since the symbol itself of the symbol group directly related to the award of the privilege is changed to the stop timing notice symbol, it is possible to make the player recognize the stop timing notice symbol more effectively.

A third invention of the present application is a gaming machine as described in claim 3. According to the gaming machine of the third aspect, the stop timing notice symbol is displayed in association with the probability that the symbols included in the symbol group will be in a predetermined display mode. That is, an advantageous privilege is given to the player on the condition that the change of the symbol group is stopped and the symbol displayed on the display unit becomes a predetermined display mode, but the stop timing notice symbol is displayed on the display unit. The displayed symbol is displayed in association with the probability of becoming the “predetermined display mode”. "Predetermined display mode"
For example, it indicates a display mode of a symbol when a "big hit symbol array" which is a condition for giving a benefit advantageous to the player is displayed. Thereby, the player can not only know the timing at which the change of the symbols included in the symbol group is stopped by recognizing the stop timing notice symbol, but also the symbol displayed with the symbol group stopped changing. It is possible to know even the probability of whether or not the display mode is “predetermined display mode”. The symbol displayed on the display is "predetermined display mode"
Is directly related to the award of the privilege, and is therefore a matter of great interest to the player. By knowing the probability, the excitement and expectation of the game held by the player is further amplified and the Interestingness increases. Note that the “probability of the predetermined display mode” recognized by the player is specifically the “probability” represented by a number such as 10% or 20%.
It is not necessary for the player to intentionally determine the predetermined display mode, such as "easy to be in the predetermined display mode" or "difficult to be in the predetermined display mode" when the variable display of the symbol group is stopped. The “probability” may be such that the degree of certainty regarding whether or not is obtained can be recognized.

A fourth invention of the present application is a gaming machine as described in claim 4. According to the gaming machine of the fourth aspect, the display mode notice symbol is displayed so as to be included in the symbol group. Here, the “display mode notice symbol” is a “predetermined display mode” in which a symbol displayed on the display unit when the change of the symbol group is stopped is a condition for giving a privilege advantageous to the player. This is a symbol for notifying a player whether or not the game will be performed. Since it is normal for a player to closely watch the fluctuation of the symbol group directly related to the grant of the privilege, when the display mode preview symbol is displayed so as to be included in the symbol group, the player operates the display mode preview symbol. Recognize without missing. By being able to recognize the display mode notice symbol, the player knows whether or not the symbol displayed when the change is stopped becomes the "predetermined display mode" even while the symbol group is changing. be able to. Therefore, even while the symbol group is changing, interest and expectation for the game are not interrupted, and the interest of the game is enhanced.

A fifth invention of the present application is a gaming machine as described in claim 5. According to the gaming machine described in claim 5, at least a part of the symbols included in the symbol group is changed to the display mode announcement symbol, so that the display mode announcement symbol is displayed so as to be included in the symbol group. Since the symbol itself of the symbol group directly related to the award of the privilege is changed to the display mode announcement symbol, it is possible for the player to recognize the display mode advance symbol more effectively.

A sixth invention of the present application is a gaming machine as described in claim 6. According to the gaming machine described in claim 6, the display mode notice symbol is displayed in association with the probability that the symbols included in the symbol group will be in the predetermined display mode. That is, the display mode notice symbol is a symbol for notifying the player whether or not the symbol displayed after the change of the symbol group is changed to the "predetermined display mode". Has a property that the symbol is displayed in association with the probability of becoming the “predetermined display mode” (that is, even when the display mode notice symbol is displayed, the fluctuation of the symbol group is stopped. The displayed symbol may not be in the “predetermined display mode”. Thereby, for example, even when the player is notified that the “predetermined display mode” will be displayed by the display mode notice symbol, the player does not know whether the “predetermined display mode” is actually displayed. Therefore, an attempt is made to determine the symbols displayed when the fluctuation of the symbol group is stopped to the end. In addition, the player can know the probability that the symbol displayed after the change of the symbol group is changed to the “predetermined display mode” by the display mode notice symbol. Above all, interest in games is not lost. Therefore, the game becomes more interesting for the player.

[0012]

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Hereinafter, first to third embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. [First Embodiment] In a first embodiment, the present invention is applied to a first-class pachinko machine. Hereinafter, FIG. 1 to FIG.
The first embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.
In the first embodiment, an example of a display mode of a symbol displayed on a screen of a special symbol display (corresponding to a display unit of the present invention) of a so-called 5-line machine capable of forming five types of reach lines. Will be described. Here, FIG. 1 is a front view showing an appearance of a first-type pachinko machine, and FIG. 2 is a front view showing an enlarged multifunction device. 6 to 1
FIG. 1 shows an example of a symbol array displayed on the screen of the special symbol display.

First, in FIG. 1, on the game board surface 12 of the pachinko machine 10, a multifunction device 14, a first-type starting port 30, a large winning port 34, a lower starting port 62, a general winning port, and the like are appropriately arranged. ing. The first type starting port 30 has a starting port sensor 56, and pays out a prize ball (prize ball) in the same manner as a normal winning port when a pachinko ball wins. The middle gate 32 has a gate sensor 54, and does not pay out prize balls even when a pachinko ball passes. The special winning opening 34 has a lid 66, which is opened and closed by the solenoid 50. The special winning opening 34 is V
It has a zone 52, and the V zone 52 has a V zone sensor 48. If the pachinko ball wins in the V zone 52 during the opening period of the special winning opening, the big hit game can be continued within a required number of times (for example, 16 times). As the above-mentioned special winning opening opening period, for example, ten pachinko balls are placed in the special winning opening.
Whichever is earlier, from winning an individual prize or releasing 30 seconds after opening, is applicable. Further, a lower starting port 62 having a function equivalent to that of the first type starting port 30 is disposed below the lid 66. The lower starting port 62 is a starting port sensor 5
A starting port sensor 60 having the same function as that of the starting port sensor 6 is provided. Here, the starting port sensors 56 and 60 detect the pachinko balls that have won the respective starting ports. The V zone sensor 48 detects a pachinko ball that has won the V zone 52. The gate sensor 54 detects a pachinko ball that has passed through the middle gate 32. The gate sensor 54, starting port sensor 56,
For example, a proximity sensor, a microswitch, an optical sensor (a light-emitting body and a light-receiving body), or the like is used as the V zone sensor 48.

The game board surface 12 has one or more decorative gates. In this example, the left gate 23,
It has a right gate 24. The decorative gate, unlike the above-mentioned middle gate 32, does not have a gate sensor for detecting the passage of a pachinko ball. The right gate 24 has a normal symbol display 26, while the left gate 23 does not have a normal symbol display. The normal symbol display 26 has one or a plurality of light emitters (two LEDs in this example), and turning on / off the light emitter is a normal symbol. The normal symbol starts blinking when, for example, a pachinko ball passes through the middle gate 32, and then turns on or off for each light emitter. Then, the lid of the lower starting port 62 is opened for a certain period of time (for example, 4 seconds) according to the lighting or extinguishing state of each light emitter (for example, when the right LED of the two LEDs is turned on). The ordinary symbol display 26 includes a liquid crystal display, a CRT, and an LED.
Other displays, such as a display and a plasma display, which can normally display a symbol may be used. In this case, for example, alphanumeric characters and symbols can be used as the ordinary symbols.
Further, the normal symbol and the special symbol may be displayed on the same display (for example, the special symbol display 20). Further, the lamps 16 use light emitters such as light bulbs and LEDs, and are not limited to the positions shown in the figure, but are arranged at appropriate positions according to the type of the pachinko machine 10 and the contents of the game.

Next, the configuration of the multifunction device 14 will be described with reference to FIG. As shown in FIG.
4, a winning prize opening 14a, a special symbol display 20, and the like are provided. The prize hole 14a is one of general prize holes. As the special symbol display 20, for example, a liquid crystal display is used. A special symbol or the like is displayed on the screen 20a of the special symbol display 20. The symbols used as the special symbols include characters (alphanumeric characters, kana characters, kanji, etc.), symbols, figures, pictures, and the like. Also, on the screen 20a, for example, a moving image (video, animation, etc.), a still image, or the like is displayed as a background pattern. As the special symbol display 20, other displays that can display special symbols, such as a CRT, an LED display, a plasma display, etc., other than the liquid crystal display, may be used. In addition, a reserved ball lamp 28 is displayed at a position below the screen 20a. A plurality (for example, four) of the retaining ball lamps 28 are arranged substantially horizontally, and display the number of pachinko balls that have won the first-type starting port 30 during the change of the special symbol. The special symbols displayed on the screen 20a repeatedly change according to the number displayed on the holding ball lamp 28. In addition, the composite device 14 has a light-emitting body such as a lamp, a decorative plate, and the like, and exhibits a decorative effect to entertain the eyes of the player.

The screen 20a is formed in a rectangular shape, and has three symbol display columns (left symbol display column 110, middle symbol display column 13).
0, right symbol display column 150). Each of the symbol display columns 110, 130, and 150 is formed in a size capable of displaying three symbols in the vertical direction (formed in three rows and three columns), and includes upper, middle, and lower rows. A symbol is displayed at each display position. When the symbols displayed on each symbol display column stop changing, if the symbol array displayed on the screen 20a is a predetermined symbol array, a bonus, for example, a big hit game is given to the player. In particular,
A "big hit" is a case where a big hit symbol array is formed on at least one of three horizontal lines and two diagonal lines formed by the symbols displayed in the symbol display columns 110, 130, and 150. If the other symbol arrangement is formed, it is "out". In the present embodiment, the special symbols displayed at the respective display positions of the symbol display columns 110, 130, 150 are all "0" to "9".
There are a total of 10 types.

In FIG. 1, when a pachinko ball wins in the first kind starting port 30, the symbols displayed in the three symbol display columns 110, 130, and 150 of the special symbol display 20 change in the forward direction (arrow 15 in FIG. 2). In the same direction). Then, the fluctuation of the symbols in each of the symbol display columns 110, 130, and 150 is stopped after a predetermined time has elapsed, and a predetermined symbol array is displayed. More specifically, in the present embodiment, first, the symbol change is stopped in the order of the left symbol display column 110 and the right symbol display column 150, and finally, the symbol in the middle symbol display column 130 stops changing. Have been.

A description will now be given, with reference to the flowcharts shown in FIGS. 3 to 5, of a symbol variation processing procedure performed in the pachinko machine 10 having the above configuration. The processing procedures shown in these flowcharts are all performed by the pachinko machine 10
This is executed by a control unit provided on the back of the camera.
The control unit includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a RAM,
It is configured by a ROM, an input / output circuit, and the like, and is realized by the CPU executing a control program stored in the ROM at an appropriate timing.

First, as shown in the flowchart of FIG. 3, when the pachinko ball wins in the first-type starting port 30 (or the lower starting port 62), the process of "starting port winning" is started. Specifically, the detection signal output from the starting port sensor 56 or the starting port sensor 60 in FIG. 1 is input to the control unit, and the processing is started. In step S10, it is determined whether or not the number of reserved balls has reached an upper limit (for example, four). The “number of reserved balls” means the number of pachinko balls that have won the first-type starting port 30 or the lower starting port 62 while the symbols are fluctuatingly displayed on the special symbol display 20. If the number of pending balls has not reached the upper limit (N
O), the process proceeds to step S11 to read and store various random numbers. If the number of reserved balls has reached the upper limit (YES), the process ends without doing anything (return).

The random numbers read in step S11 include a big hit determination random number RA and a big hit symbol random number R
B, loss design data RC, reach determination random number RD, and the like. The big hit determination random number RA is a random number for determining whether or not it is a big hit. The jackpot symbol random number RB is a random number for specifying a special symbol that is stopped and displayed on the special symbol indicator 20 when it is determined to be a jackpot by the jackpot determination random number RA. Loss symbol data RC
Is a random number for specifying a special symbol that is stopped and displayed on the special symbol display device 20 when it is determined by the big hit determination random number RA that it is not a big hit (outlier). The reach determination random number RD is a random number for determining whether or not reach is performed. After reading and storing of various random numbers in step S11, the process proceeds to the next step S12, and it is determined whether or not a big hit has occurred based on the big hit determination random number RA. Here, if it is a big hit (YES), the process proceeds to the big hit symbol changing process in step S13, and if it is not a big hit (NO), step S17
The process proceeds to the missing symbol variation process.

In the big hit symbol change process of step S13, the process shown in the flowchart of FIG. 4 is performed. Here, the "big hit symbol change process" is a process for determining a display mode until the special symbol displayed on the special symbol display 20 stops changing and a big hit symbol array is formed, and performs the symbol change process. Processing. The symbol change process is a process for actually changing and displaying symbols on the special symbol display 20. In the big hit symbol variation process shown in FIG. 4, first, a big hit determination random number RA and a big hit symbol random number RB are read (step S20). Then, the process proceeds to step S21, where the random number RA for jackpot determination is referred to, and the random number RE for variation pattern is read / stored (acquired) based on the random number RA for jackpot determination. The “variation pattern random number RE” is used to determine a display mode until the special symbol stops changing and a predetermined symbol array is displayed, and a plurality of display modes are prepared in advance as a symbol variation pattern. In addition, a different random number RE for a variation pattern is assigned to each of the symbol variation patterns. As the symbol variation pattern, for example, a normal reach pattern, a normal non-reach pattern, a special reach pattern, and the like are prepared. The symbol variation pattern to be performed is determined. The symbol variation pattern that can be displayed on the special symbol display 20 differs between a case of a big hit and a case of a loss. For example,
In the case of a big hit, it is not possible to select a design variation pattern that stops the variation of the design while displaying the missing symbol arrangement. On the other hand, if it is a loss, it is not possible to select a symbol variation pattern in which symbol variation is stopped while the big hit symbol array is displayed. Therefore, when obtaining the fluctuation pattern random number RE, it is confirmed whether or not a big hit is determined by referring to the big hit determination random number RA, and it is confirmed that the big hit is determined based on the big hit determination random number RA. In this case, the variation pattern random number RE is obtained from the variation pattern random numbers RE corresponding to the symbol variation pattern that can be displayed at the time of the big hit. Next, the process proceeds to step S23, and the big hit symbol random number RB is referred to. Based on the random number RB for the big hit symbol, it is determined whether or not the special symbol stopped and displayed on the special symbol display 20 is a probability-variable symbol and stored. Then, the process proceeds to step S24, where a symbol variation process is performed. In the symbol variation process, a process for actually displaying the symbol variation pattern corresponding to the variation pattern random number RE acquired in step S21 on the screen 20a is performed. After the symbol variation process in step S24 ends, the big hit symbol variation process ends, and the process proceeds to step S14 in the flowchart of FIG.

In the out-of-symbol variation process in step S17, the process shown in the flowchart of FIG. 5 is performed.
Here, the “losing symbol change process” is a special symbol display 2
This is a process for determining the display mode until the special symbol displayed at 0 stops changing and forming a missing symbol array, and performs a symbol changing process. In the loss symbol variation process shown in FIG. 5, the loss symbol data RC and the reach determination random number RD
Is read (step S30). Then, the process proceeds to step S31, where the random number RD for variation determination is read / stored (acquired) based on the random number RD for reach determination with reference to the random number RD for reach determination. The symbol variation pattern that can be displayed on the special symbol display device 20 is different between a case where "reach" occurs after reaching the reach state and a case where "removal" occurs without entering the reach state. For example, in the case of “losing” after the reach state, it is necessary to select a design variation pattern in which a reach symbol array is formed on the way, the missing symbol array is displayed, and the variation is stopped. Conversely, if you get "out" without reaching reach,
If a reach symbol array is not formed on the way, a symbol variation pattern must be selected so as to display a shifted symbol array and stop the variation. Therefore, the random number RE for the fluctuation pattern
Is obtained, whether or not reach is confirmed based on the reach determination random number RD. If it is confirmed that reach is reached, the fluctuation is stopped after the reach symbol array is formed on the way. The random number RE for a fluctuation pattern is obtained from the random number RE for the fluctuation pattern corresponding to the symbol fluctuation pattern. Next, the process proceeds to step S32, where it is determined based on the reach determination random number RD whether or not reach is achieved. If it is determined that it is reach (YES), the process proceeds to step S33, and if it is determined that it is not reach (NO), the process proceeds to step S36 to perform a symbol variation process.

In step S33, the left symbol and the middle symbol are compared. "Left symbol" is a special symbol indicator 20
Is a special symbol displayed in the left symbol display column 110 on the five lines, and the “middle symbol” is a special symbol displayed in the middle symbol display column 130 on the same line. These “left symbol” and “middle symbol” are determined by referring to the missing symbol data RC. And "left design"
If the “middle symbol” and “middle symbol” are the same type (YES), the process proceeds to step S34. If the “left symbol” and “middle symbol” are different types (NO), the process proceeds to step S35. move on. If it is determined in step S33 that the "left symbol" and the "middle symbol" are the same type of special symbol, the data of the "right symbol" is copied to the data of the "left symbol" (step S34). This is the case where "left symbol" and "middle symbol" are the same type of special symbol, and "left symbol"
This is because, when the data of the right symbol is copied to the data of the "right symbol" to form a reach symbol array, three special symbols of the same type are displayed on one line to form a big hit symbol array. . Therefore, as described above, by copying the data of the “right symbol” to the data of the “left symbol”, the type of the special symbol is operated so as to form the reach symbol array without forming the big hit symbol array. (However,
At this time, the "medium symbol" and the "right symbol" are not the same type.) The “right symbol” indicates a special symbol displayed in the middle symbol display column 130 on the line where the “middle symbol” and the “left symbol” are displayed. If it is determined in step S33 that the “left symbol” and the “middle symbol” are not the same type of special symbol (NO), the data of the “left symbol” is copied to the data of the “right symbol”. (Step S
35). The data of the "left symbol" is copied to the data of the "right symbol" to form a reach symbol array, but the "left symbol" and the "middle symbol" are different, so they are the same on one line. There is no case where three types of symbols are arranged to form a big hit symbol array. Then, when the processing in step S34 or step S35 ends, step S
At 36, a symbol variation process is performed. The contents of the symbol variation process in step S36 in the outlier symbol variation process are
This is the same as the content of the symbol change process of step 24 in the big hit symbol change process. When the symbol variation process of step S36 is completed, the process of winning the starting opening in the flowchart of FIG. 3 is also completed (return).

In the start-up winning process shown in the flowchart of FIG. 3, when the big hit symbol changing process in step 13 is completed, the flow proceeds to the big hit game process in step S14. The jackpot game process is a process for giving a jackpot game to a player. For example, the lid 66 of the jackpot opening 34 is opened for a certain period (for example, 30 seconds), and a prize is given according to the number of winning pachinko balls. This is a process of paying out a ball or the like. When the big hit game process ends, it is determined in step S15 whether or not the probability fluctuation has occurred. This is the random number R for the jackpot symbol stored in step S23 of the jackpot symbol variation process.
B is determined based on the determination result based on B,
If the special symbol forming the jackpot symbol array is a probability variation symbol (YES), the process proceeds to the probability variation process of step S16, and if it is not a probability variation symbol (NO), the start-up winning process is ended ( return). In addition, the probability fluctuation means that when a big hit occurs in a predetermined special symbol, the probability of the big hit changes for a predetermined period or until a predetermined number of changes elapses (in general, the probability increases). The probability variation game is a game in which the probability variation is performed. Further, the probability variation process is a process performed for giving a probability variation game to a player. Step S
When the sixteen probability variation processes are completed, all the processes of the winning opening winning are completed (return).

In the first embodiment, first, as shown in FIG. 6, when the symbols displayed in the left symbol display column 110 and the right symbol display column 150 stop changing, they are displayed on the line L1. The special symbols are both "7", and the reach symbol array is displayed on the line L1 (reach state). At this time, the special symbol in the middle symbol display column 130 is continuously changing from top to bottom at a high speed, and the player cannot visually recognize the special symbol displayed in the middle symbol display column 130. . Next, as shown in FIG. 7, the special symbol that has been continuously changing at a high speed in the middle symbol display row 130 gradually changes at a low speed, and the special symbol is in such a degree that the player can visually recognize the mode of the special symbol. It moves from top to bottom at a speed (in the direction indicated by arrow A1 in the figure). The player has a sense of expectation that the symbol in the middle symbol display column 130 stops changing, "7" is displayed on the line L1, and the big hit symbol array is formed. But,
Here, if the special symbol is simply changed from top to bottom at a low speed, the display mode until the change stops is monotonous, and the expectation and excitement of the player cannot be increased. Therefore, in the present embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the special symbol “0” which has been continuously changing at a low speed in the middle symbol display column 130 triggered by the appearance of the symbol symbol 70.
Is changed to a stop timing notice symbol representing the character "3" and displayed. Here, the "stop timing notice symbol" is a symbol for notifying the player of the timing at which the special symbol that continues to fluctuate is stopped, and the stop timing notice symbol "3 more" is displayed in the middle symbol display column. This is a symbol for informing the player that the symbol that continues to fluctuate at 130 continues to fluctuate and stops after displaying three more symbols. In addition, “changed and displayed” means that a special symbol “0” is changed or replaced by a symbol “stop 3” which is a stop timing notice symbol, and is displayed by being replaced. An embodiment will be described. The special symbol "0" changes to the stop timing notice symbol "3", and the stop timing notice symbol "3".
Is displayed so as to be included as a part of a symbol group composed of a plurality of special symbols. Medium symbol display column 13
When the special symbol displayed on the line L1 of 0 is changed to the stop timing announcement symbol representing the character "3", the stop timing announcement symbol continues to fluctuate in the downward direction. As shown in FIG. 9, stop timing notice symbols “remaining 2” and “remaining 1” are sequentially displayed on the line L1.

In the present embodiment, a special symbol "7" is displayed after a stop timing notice symbol "Remaining 1" is displayed on line L1 of the middle symbol display column 130 (FIG. 10). Then, when the special symbol “7” is displayed, the change of the symbol displayed in the middle symbol display column 130 stops as notified by the stop timing announcement symbol. Thus, “7, 7, 7” is displayed on the line L1.
A big hit symbol array in which three special symbols of the same type are arranged is displayed. When the "big hit" is determined, a big hit game is given to the player. Further, when the special symbol “7” that constitutes the big hit symbol array is a probability variation symbol, the player is given a probability variation game.

According to the first embodiment, at least a part of a plurality of special drawings (corresponding to the "symbol group" in the present invention) directly related to the privilege given to the player is changed to a stop timing notice symbol. Is displayed, the player watches the stop timing notice symbol, and the player recognizes the stop timing notice symbol without missing. By recognizing the stop timing notice symbol, it is possible to know in advance when the special symbol will stop changing, so that the player is strongly interested in this stop timing notice symbol even while the special symbol is changing. Hug,
There is no loss of interest in the game. In particular, the display unit 20
After the reach symbol array is displayed and the display reaches "reach", the player has a great sense of expectation for the special symbol displayed in the remaining one of the symbol display columns that continues to fluctuate. The player can know in advance the stop timing of the special symbol displayed in the remaining one symbol display column by the stop timing notice symbol, so that the player's expectation until the change of the special symbol is stopped, etc. Is amplified. Therefore, according to the present embodiment, after the “reach”, the “big hit”
Alternatively, the game until the "losing" is determined becomes more interesting for the player.

In the first embodiment, a special symbol "7" is displayed on the line L1 of the middle symbol display column 130, and then a special symbol "7" is displayed. , 7, 7 "is displayed (FIGS. 9 to 10). However, it is not necessary to display the big hit symbol array after the stop timing notice symbol is displayed. May be displayed. For example, as shown in FIG. 9, after a stop timing notice symbol of “one more” is displayed on the line L1 of the middle symbol display column 130, as shown in FIG. 11, a special symbol of “8” is displayed on the line L1. The symbol is displayed and the middle symbol display column 13
The change of the symbol “0” stops, and “7, 8,
"7" may be displayed. That is, the "stop timing notice symbol" is for notifying the player of the timing at which the change of the special symbol displayed on the display unit is stopped, and the symbol displayed when the change of the special symbol is stopped is displayed. It can be used irrespective of the display mode.

In the first embodiment, the characters displayed in the stop timing notice symbol are "one more" and "two more".
This is to make the player recognize the stop timing based on the number of symbols displayed until the change of the special symbol stops, but the stop timing notice symbol is not limited to such an aspect. Absent. For example, when the stop timing notice symbol is "10 seconds left", "5 seconds left"
The symbol may be a symbol representing the character, and the player may recognize the stop timing with the time until the change of the special symbol stops. Stop timing notice symbol,
It is sufficient that the player conceptually recognizes the timing and timing at which the change of the special symbol stops, and even if the symbol does not represent a character, for example, the timing of stopping the special symbol depending on the color or the action of the character To recognize
It may be foreseen.

Further, as an application of the first embodiment, the interest of the game can be increased by the display mode as described below. In the first embodiment, an example is shown in which the special symbol "0" is changed to the stop timing notice symbol "3" and displayed, but further "3" is displayed. By changing the size of the number of "3" included in the wording and displaying it, the "probability" that the display mode of the symbol displayed when the change of the special symbol stops is "big hit symbol array" It is configured to make the player aware. For example, when the number "3" of the stop timing notice symbol "3" is displayed large, the probability of becoming "big hit symbol arrangement" is high, and when the number "3" is displayed small. Makes the player recognize that the probability of becoming a "big hit symbol arrangement" is low. In this way, by displaying various characteristics such as the size, color, shape, character type, quantity, etc. of the stop timing notice symbol, not only the timing at which the change of the special symbol stops, but also the "big hit symbol arrangement" If the player is also made to recognize the probability that is displayed, the player will pay more attention to the stop timing notice symbol, and the interest of the game will further increase.

[Second Embodiment] In a second embodiment, as in the first embodiment, the present invention is applied to a first-class pachinko machine, and a pattern in a 5-line machine is used. This is a diagram showing one mode of display. Here, FIGS. 6, 7, 10, 11 and FIGS. 12 to 15 show the display modes of the symbols displayed on the screen 20a of the special symbol display 20 in the second embodiment. 9 shows a display mode of a special symbol displayed on the line L1 formed at the display position of the middle section. In these figures, the same elements as those shown in FIGS. 6 to 11 in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals. In the second embodiment as well, first, the change of the symbols in the order of the left symbol display column 110 and the right symbol display column 150 stops, and finally, the change of the symbols in the middle symbol display column 130 stops. It is configured. When changing the special symbol in each symbol display column, “starting opening winning process”, “big hit symbol changing process”, and “losing symbol changing process” shown in the flowcharts of FIGS. 3 to 5 are performed.

In the second embodiment, as in the first embodiment, first, a left symbol display column 110 and a right symbol display column 1
The change of the symbol displayed at 50 is stopped, and a special symbol of "7" is displayed on the line L1 to be in the reach state (FIG. 6). At this time, in the middle symbol display column 130, the special symbol continues to fluctuate from top to bottom at a high speed, and the player cannot visually recognize the special symbol displayed in the middle symbol display column 130. Further, similarly to the first embodiment, the special symbol that has been continuously changing at a high speed in the middle symbol display column 130 gradually changes at a low speed, so that the player can visually recognize the mode of the special symbol. It moves from top to bottom (in the direction indicated by the arrow A1 in the figure) at a moderate speed (FIG. 7). The player, the middle symbol display column 130
Is expected to stop and "7" is displayed on the line L1. Here, in the present embodiment, FIG.
As shown in FIG. 12, the appearance of the character symbol 70 triggers the special symbol “0”, which has been continuously changing at a low speed in the middle symbol display column 130,
The display mode is changed to a display notice symbol showing the character "large" and displayed. Here, the "display mode notice symbol" is a symbol displayed on the display unit when the change of the special symbol is stopped,
This is a symbol for notifying the player whether or not the “big hit symbol arrangement” which is a condition for giving the “big hit game” to the player. When the special symbol on the line L1 of the middle symbol display column 130 is changed to the display mode announcement symbol of "Large", the display mode advance symbol of "Large" then fluctuates downward (in the direction of arrow A1 in the figure). (FIG. 12), and then a display mode notice symbol representing the character "" is displayed on the line L1 of the middle symbol display column 130. That is, on the line L1 of the middle symbol display column 130, the display mode notice symbols of “large” and “this” are sequentially displayed, and the player is expected to expect “big hit”. Then, as shown in FIG. 14, after the display mode preview symbol of “this” fluctuates in the downward direction, the display mode preview symbol of “Ri” moves from above in the line L1 of the middle symbol display column 130. Is displayed. By displaying the notice patterns of "Large", "This", and "Ri" sequentially, the player is notified that the "Big hit symbol arrangement" is displayed when the change of the special symbol is stopped. Is done.

After the display patterns "Large", "This" and "Ri" are sequentially displayed on the line L1 of the middle symbol display column 130, "7" is displayed on the line L1 of the middle symbol display column 130. Is displayed. Thereby, the line L
On the top 1, a big hit symbol arrangement of "7, 7, 7" is displayed as previously announced. When the "big hit" is determined, a big hit game is given to the player. Further, when "7" is a probability variation symbol, a player is given a probability variation game.

As shown in the second embodiment, in the gaming machine of the present invention, when the change of the special symbol is stopped, the player is notified of whether or not the "big hit symbol arrangement" is displayed. The display mode notice symbol is displayed by changing a part of the plurality of special symbols, so that the player can be effectively recognized. By recognizing the display mode notice symbol, the player can know in advance whether or not the mode of the symbol displayed when the change of the special symbol is stopped is "big hit symbol array". Even if is changing, interest and interest in the game are not lost. Therefore,
The game from the start of the change of the special symbol until the stop is not monotonous, and the interest of the game can be increased.

In the second embodiment, "Large", "Touch", and "Ri" are sequentially displayed as display mode notice symbols, and a big hit symbol array is displayed on the line L1. Although an example of giving a notice is shown, as an application of the present embodiment, it is possible to enhance the interest of the game by a display mode as described below. For example, as shown in FIG. 13, after the display pattern notice symbol of “this” is displayed on the line L1 of the middle symbol display column 130, the symbol “RE” is displayed as shown in FIG. Is displayed. That is, on the line L1 of the middle symbol display column 130,
Symbols representing the characters "Large", "This", and "Re" are sequentially displayed. Here, "great hit" is the character at the end of "out" after "hit".
By displaying, as a result, "missing symbol array"
Is a coined word for giving a notice to the player that is displayed. "Large", "This",
When the symbols of “RE” are sequentially displayed, when the special symbols in each symbol display column stop changing, “missing symbol array” is displayed on the display unit. When the "miss" is confirmed,
The jackpot game is not given to the player. In the above case,
At the point in time when the display mode notice symbols up to “large” and “this” are displayed, the player has a strong sense of expectation that “ri” will be displayed next and “big hit” will be displayed. Also,
Since the word "big hit" is a more general term than the word "big hit", the player predicts that "ri" will be displayed next. However, the fact that "re" was displayed instead of "re" after "this" means that the discouragement of the player is greater than when the special symbol stops changing to "losing symbol array" Become. On the other hand,
"Ri" display mode Notice symbol is displayed and "Big hit"
In this case, the player's feeling of satisfaction and accomplishment is great, so that the game is more interesting for the player.

[Third Embodiment] A third embodiment is directed to
As in the first and second embodiments, the present invention is applied to a first-class pachinko machine, and shows one mode of symbol display on a 5-line machine. here,
FIGS. 6, 7, 10, 11, and 16 all show the third
20a of special symbol display 20 in the embodiment of the present invention
And the special symbol display mode mainly displayed on the line L1 formed at the display position of the middle section. In these figures, the same elements as those shown in FIGS. 6 to 11 in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals. In the third embodiment as well, first, the change of the symbols in the order of the left symbol display column 110 and the right symbol display column 150 stops, and finally, the change of the symbols in the middle symbol display column 130 stops. It is configured. When changing the special symbol of each symbol display column,
-"Starting port winning process" shown in the flowchart of FIG.
"Big hit symbol variation process" and "losing symbol variation process" are performed.

In the third embodiment, similarly to the first embodiment, first, a left symbol display column 110 and a right symbol display column 1
The change of the symbol 50 is stopped, and the special symbol “7” is displayed on each line L1 to be in the reach state (FIG. 6). At this time, in the middle symbol display column 130, the special symbol continues to fluctuate from top to bottom at a high speed, and the player cannot visually recognize the special symbol displayed in the middle symbol display column 130. Further, similarly to the first embodiment, the special symbol that has been continuously changing at a high speed in the middle symbol display column 130 gradually changes at a low speed, so that the player can visually recognize the mode of the special symbol. It moves from top to bottom (in the direction indicated by the arrow A1 in the figure) at a moderate speed (FIG. 7). The player strongly expects that the fluctuation of the middle symbol display column 130 stops and “7” is displayed on the line L1. Here, in the present embodiment, FIGS.
As shown in FIG. 6, the special symbol “0”, which has been continuously changing at a low speed in the middle symbol display column 130 triggered by the appearance of the character symbol 70, is displayed as the character “Daichi”. It is changed to the mode notice symbol and displayed. Here, the display mode announcement symbol representing the character "Daichi" is a symbol for notifying the player that the big hit symbol array is displayed on the display unit with high probability when the change of the special symbol is stopped. is there. "The jackpot symbol array is displayed on the display unit with a high probability" means that when the display mode notice symbol of "Daichi" is displayed, the probability is higher than when the display mode notice symbol of "Daichi" is not displayed Means that the big hit symbol array is displayed on the display unit. That is, FIG.
In 6, when the display mode notice symbol of “Daichi” is displayed on the line L1 of the middle symbol display column 130, then
The display pattern of the display pattern is downward (direction of arrow A1 in the figure)
When the special symbol displayed in the middle symbol display column 130 stops changing, the special symbol “7” is displayed on the line L1 as shown in FIG. This means that the probability that the symbol array is displayed is high. The high probability that the big hit symbol array is displayed on the display unit means that the fluctuation of the middle symbol display column 130 has stopped as shown in FIG. 11 even when the display mode notice symbol of "Daichi" is displayed. In this case, the special symbol “8” is displayed on the line L1, and this means that the “missing symbol array” of “7, 8, 7” may be displayed.

As described above, in the third embodiment, a part of the special symbol directly related to the award of the privilege is changed to the display mode announcement symbol and displayed, so that the display mode announcement symbol is displayed to the player. It can be effectively recognized. The display mode notice symbol in the present embodiment allows the player to recognize the probability that the symbol displayed when the change of the special symbol stops will be a "big hit symbol arrangement" (that is, the display mode notice symbol is displayed). Even in this case, the "big hit symbol arrangement" may not be displayed.) Thereby, even if the player recognizes that the "big hit symbol arrangement" is displayed by the display mode notice symbol, for example, the player does not know whether or not the "big hit symbol array" is actually displayed. Therefore, the variation of the special symbol is stopped, and the mode of the displayed symbol is determined to the end. In addition, the player can know the probability that the symbol displayed by stopping the change of the special symbol will be “big hit symbol array” by the display mode notice symbol, so even while the special symbol is being displayed in a variable manner. We do not lose interest and interest in game.

In the third embodiment, by changing a part of the special symbol to the display mode notice symbol of "Daikichi" and displaying it, the probability that the "big hit symbol array" is displayed to the player is high. In the example shown above, a part of a plurality of special symbols is changed to a display mode notice symbol expressing the character "Koyoshi" and displayed, so that "Big hit symbol arrangement" is displayed to the player. It may be made to recognize that the probability of being performed is not so high. “Kokichi” is a display mode notice symbol for causing the player to recognize that the probability that the “big hit symbol arrangement” is displayed is lower than when the display mode notice symbol “Daikichi” is displayed. In this way, by displaying different types of display mode announcement symbols, if the player is notified that the "big hit symbol arrangement" is displayed with different probabilities, the player can change the display mode announcement symbol. Because I try to determine the type of
You become more interested in games. Therefore, even while the special symbols displayed in each symbol display column are changing, the interest in the game is maintained and the interest of the game is further amplified.

[Other Embodiments] In the above-described pachinko machine (game machine) 10, the structure, shape,
The material, the number, the arrangement, the operating conditions, and the like are not limited to the above-described embodiment, but can be variously changed as needed. For example, each of the following embodiments to which the above embodiment is applied may be implemented.

(A) In the first to third embodiments, the special symbol "0" displayed on the line L1 of the middle symbol display column 130 is a stop timing advance symbol or a display mode advance symbol. In the above, an example changed or changed by replacement etc. is shown, but the stop timing notice symbol or the display mode notice symbol may be displayed so as to be included as all or a part of the special symbol. It is not limited to the display mode. For example, in the first embodiment, "stop 3" which is a stop timing notice symbol,
Designs that represent the characters "2 more" and "1 more"
It may be displayed so as to be inserted sequentially between the special symbols “0” and “9”. Further, in the second embodiment, the symbols representing the characters "Large", "This", and "Ri", which are the display mode notice symbols, are sequentially inserted between the special symbols "0" and "9". May be displayed.

(B) In the first to third embodiments, an example has been described in which the "symbol group" for displaying the information regarding the grant of the privilege is constituted by the "special symbols". It is not limited. For example, the present invention can be applied to a case where the “symbol group” is a group constituted by “normal symbols” in a third-type pachinko machine.

(C) In the first to third embodiments, the pattern change is stopped in the order of the left symbol display column → the right symbol display column → the middle symbol display column. Can be variously changed as necessary. For example, a five-line machine in which the change of symbols stops in the order of left symbol display column → middle symbol display column → right symbol display column may be used. In addition, the special symbols displayed in the symbol display column have been described as changing from high-speed fluctuations to low-speed fluctuations and stopping, but the fluctuation of the special symbols is not limited to such an embodiment.

(D) In the first to third embodiments, the special symbol, which has been continuously changing, is changed to a stop timing announcement symbol or a display mode announcement symbol upon appearance of the character 70 and displayed. However, the appearance of the character 70 is not always necessary, and the present invention can be applied to a gaming machine even when such an effect is not performed.

(E) Also, in the first to third embodiments, the example in which the display unit is constituted by the three symbol display columns of left, middle, and right is shown, but the present invention is limited to such an embodiment. For example, the present invention can be applied to a gaming machine including one or five symbol display columns.

(F) In the first to third embodiments, the mode of the symbols displayed in the symbol display column of the screen 20a in the five-line machine has been described. The present invention may be applied to a display mode, for example, a one-line machine or an eight-line machine.

(G) In the above embodiment, the present invention is applied to the pachinko machine 10; however, a game machine other than the first kind pachinko machine (for example, a third kind pachinko machine, a slot machine, an arrange ball machine, a video game machine, etc.) The present invention can be similarly applied to a device having a display unit for changing and displaying symbols.

[0048]

As described above, according to the gaming machine of the present invention, the stop timing of the special symbol, whether the big hit symbol array is displayed when the change of the special symbol is stopped, and the like are determined.
A notice can be given to the player so that the player can easily recognize it. Thus, it is possible to realize a gaming machine that can provide a new interest for the player, such as maintaining a sense of expectation and a sense of urgency of the player even while the design of the display unit is changing.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a front view showing the appearance of a pachinko machine.

FIG. 2 is an enlarged front view of the multifunction device.

FIG. 3 is a flowchart of a start-up winning process.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart of a big hit symbol change process.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart of a lost symbol changing process.

FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of display contents displayed on a screen of a special symbol display according to the first to third embodiments.

FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of display contents displayed on a screen of a special symbol display according to the first to third embodiments.

FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of display contents displayed on a screen of a special symbol display device according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of display content displayed on a screen of the special symbol display device according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of display contents displayed on a screen of a special symbol display according to the first and second embodiments.

FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of display contents displayed on the screen of the special symbol display according to the first and second embodiments.

FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating an example of display content displayed on a screen of a special symbol display according to the second embodiment.

FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of display contents displayed on a screen of a special symbol display according to the second embodiment.

FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating an example of display contents displayed on a screen of a special symbol display according to the second embodiment.

FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of display contents displayed on a screen of a special symbol display according to the second embodiment.

FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an example of display contents displayed on a screen of a special symbol display according to the third embodiment.

[Explanation of symbols]

 DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 ... Pachinko machine (gaming machine) 20 ... Special design display (display part) 20a ... Screen 30 ... Class 1 starting opening 34 ... Big winning opening 56, 60 ... Starting opening sensor 62 ... Lower starting opening 70 ... Character design 110: left symbol display column 130: middle symbol display column 150: right symbol display column

Claims (6)

[Claims] 1. A symbol group for displaying information related to the grant of a privilege on a display unit, and the symbol group is displayed in a variable manner. , A stop timing notice symbol for notifying a player of a timing at which the change of the symbol group is stopped is displayed so as to be included in the symbol group. 2. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein at least a part of the symbols included in the symbol group is changed and displayed as a stop timing notice symbol. 3. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the stop timing notice symbol is displayed in association with a probability that a symbol included in the symbol group will be in a predetermined display mode. A gaming machine with special features. 4. A symbol group for displaying information relating to granting of a privilege on a display unit in a variable manner, and a privilege which is advantageous to a player on condition that a symbol included in the symbol group is in a predetermined display mode. In the gaming machine is provided, a display mode notice symbol for notifying the player whether the symbol displayed when the fluctuation of the symbol group is in the predetermined display mode is the symbol group. A gaming machine characterized by being displayed to be included. 5. The gaming machine according to claim 4, wherein at least a part of the symbols included in the symbol group is changed to a display mode notice symbol and displayed. 6. The gaming machine according to claim 4, wherein the display mode notice symbol is displayed in association with a probability that a symbol included in the symbol group will be in a predetermined display mode. A gaming machine with special features.