JP2002292037A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine capable of giving a player a new fun in the process until a notification about a big hit or none is issued and of heightening the sense of expectation and/or thrilling for a big hit which any player will have. SOLUTION: The game machine to make varying display of patterns on a screen 20a is structured so that after the patterns exhibited in the left column 110 and the right column 150 are stopped varying, covering patterns S1, S3, S2 expressing the characters Copper, Gold, and Silver are given on the lines L1 of the left column 110, center column 130, and right column 150. The sorts of patterns given on the lines L1 of the left column 110 and right column 150 are changed during the period they are covered by the covering patterns S1 and S2. The covering patterns S1, S2 and S3 vanish, and the patterns on the lines L1 of the left column 110 and right column 150 which are turned distinguishable again constitute a string of 'ready-to-win' pattern arrangement.

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 pachinko machine which is one of gaming machines, a lottery is performed by reading various random numbers when a pachinko ball (game ball) enters or passes through a predetermined area (for example, a first-class starting port). The lottery is determined based on the lottery result. Also, based on the random numbers, special symbols are variably displayed on a symbol display device (for example, a special symbol display) provided on the game board surface. When the special symbols are displayed in a predetermined display mode, for example, three identical special symbols
When displayed in the big hit symbol arrangement aligned on one line, it means that the player is notified that the big hit game (privilege) is given. In the big hit game, specifically, a process such as opening a special winning opening for a certain period is performed, and a substantially fixed number of throwing balls are paid out. When a symbol array (missing symbol array) other than the big hit symbol array is formed, the big hit game is not given to the player.

[0003]

In such a pachinko machine, for example, among the symbols displayed in the three symbol display columns, the variation of the symbols displayed in the two symbol display columns stops, and the big hit symbol is stopped. When the reach symbol array, which is one step before the array is formed, is displayed, the player's interest concentrates on the symbol that stops changing at the end. However, in the case of simply displaying the reach symbol array and stopping the last symbol in this way, the process of notifying the player of a big hit or not becomes extremely monotonous, and the expectation of the big hit held by the player I couldn't improve my feeling one step now.

[0004] The present invention has been made in view of such a point, and an object of the present invention is to give a new interest to the process of notifying a player of whether or not it is a big hit, and to embrace the player. It is an object of the present invention to provide a gaming machine capable of increasing a sense of expectation and a sense of urgency for a big hit.

[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 related 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 an area 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. Normally, a symbol display column is formed in the vertical direction toward the display unit, but the case where the symbol display column is formed in the horizontal direction toward the display unit is also included. (5) “Big hit symbol arrangement” means that when the lottery result by the lottery means is a big hit, the symbols that have been changed on the display unit are stopped and displayed in this symbol array, thereby providing a predetermined privilege to the player. (For example, a jackpot game). 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". In addition, 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 is generally the same symbol as the symbol display column other than the symbol display column that stops changing last. Are displayed together.

[0006] According to the gaming machine of the first aspect, the display means performs a shield display for shielding at least one lottery symbol among the plurality of lottery symbols so that the symbol cannot be identified. Here, the "lottery symbol" is a symbol used to make the player recognize the lottery result by the lottery means, and specifically, a special symbol or the like corresponds to this symbol. "Looking out the lottery symbol to make it indistinguishable" means that it is possible for the player to determine that the lottery symbol is being displayed.
For example, it refers to a state in which characters, numbers, and the like constituting the lottery symbol cannot be identified. As a specific example of such “shielded display”, for example, there is a display mode in which all or part of a lottery symbol is covered with another symbol. After performing the “shielded display”, the display means displays the shielded lottery symbol again so that it can be identified. In order to make the symbol re-identifiable again, for example, the symbol blocking the lottery symbol is deleted or displayed to be moved to another position. Then, the display means displays the lottery symbol that can be identified again,
The display is performed so as to form a part of the “predetermined display mode”. The "predetermined display mode" is a display mode for causing the player to recognize that the lottery result obtained by the lottery means is a big hit, and specifically, for example, "a large hit" for recognizing "a big hit". Jackpot symbol arrangement ". "Displaying so as to form a part of a predetermined display mode" means, for example, a plurality of "reach symbol arrays" which are in a state immediately before the "big hit symbol array" is formed, which can be identified again. This is a mode in which the information is displayed so as to be constituted by lottery symbols. In the gaming machine according to the first aspect, by displaying the lottery symbol re-identifiable so that the “display mode forming a part of the predetermined display mode” is formed, the player is provided with the “predetermined mode”. Is displayed, that is, a chance to be a "big hit" is given. Thereby, the excitement and expectation of the player can be further increased.

According to the gaming machine of the second aspect, the shield display for making the lottery symbols indistinguishable is performed by displaying a plurality of shield symbols in a combination having a specific relationship. Here, the “shielding symbol” is a symbol for shielding all or a part of the lottery symbol so that the type thereof cannot be identified. As a shielding design, for example,
A decorative pattern displayed as a decorative pattern for entertaining the player's eyes, a pattern representing a character, or the like is used. And, "displaying the plurality of shielded symbols in a combination having relevance" indicates that the combination of the plurality of shielded symbols is displayed in a form that reminds the player of some meaning, content, idea, or the like. ing. Specifically, for example, a combination of a plurality of shielding designs each representing one character is displayed so as to form a word having some meaning, or a plurality of shielding designs each representing a color. Depending on the combination, there is a mode in which the display is made to remind some idea (for example,
The display of the three shielding symbols representing the letters and colors of "gold, silver, and bronze" recalls a united meaning and idea.) According to the gaming machine described in claim 2, by recognizing a plurality of shielded symbols displayed in a combination having a specific relevance, a plurality of lottery symbols can be identified again. It is expected that a “display mode forming a part of the predetermined display mode” will be formed. Then, when a “display mode (for example, a reach symbol array) that forms a part of a predetermined display mode” is formed by a plurality of lottery symbols, a “big hit symbol array” is formed. Expect to be deaf. In other words, in the process of being notified of the "big hit", the player is gradually notified of the expectation of the "big hit" by performing a step-by-step notice. As described above, according to the gaming machine of the second aspect, the effect of displaying the “predetermined display mode” and notifying the player of the “big hit” is not monotonous, and You will be able to enjoy more interesting games.

[0008]

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS A first embodiment and a second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. [First Embodiment] In the first embodiment, the present invention is applied to a first-class pachinko machine, and a so-called 5-line machine special symbol display (book) capable of forming five types of reach lines. (Corresponding to the display means of the present invention) is described as an example of the display mode of the symbol displayed on the screen. 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. FIGS. 3 to 5 are flowcharts showing the processing procedure of the symbol change, and FIGS. 6 to 11 show aspects of the symbols 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 a prize ball 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 a 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, the starting port sensor 56,
For example, a proximity sensor, a microswitch, an optical sensor (a light-emitting body and a light-receiving body), and the like are used as the 60 and V zone sensors 48.

The game board surface 12 has one or a plurality of decorative gates.
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. The screen 20a displays, for example, a moving image (video, animation, etc.), a still image, or the like as a background symbol. 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 in a substantially horizontal manner, and display the number of pachinko balls that have won the first-type starting port 30 during the variation display of the special symbol. The special symbols displayed on the screen 20a repeatedly change and display 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.

When a bonus, for example, a jackpot game, is given to a player, the symbols displayed in each symbol display column stop changing and are displayed on the screen 20a in a predetermined display mode. Specifically, the symbol display columns 110, 130, 15
When a jackpot symbol array is formed on at least one of three horizontal lines and two diagonal lines formed by the symbol displayed at 0, a "big hit" is determined. The case where the symbol arrangement is formed is "out". In the present embodiment, a case where three special symbols of the same type are displayed on a line is referred to as a "big hit symbol array". The symbol display columns 110 and 13
The special symbols displayed at the display positions 0 and 150 are a total of 10 types of “0” to “9”.

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 are displayed in the forward change direction (arrow 15 in FIG. 2). In the same direction). Then, the fluctuation of the symbols in the symbol display columns 110, 130, and 150 stops after a predetermined time has elapsed, and a predetermined symbol array is displayed. In the present embodiment, first, the left symbol display column 11
0, right symbol display column 150 stops in the order of symbol change, and finally the symbol in middle symbol display column 130 stops changing.

A description will now be given, with reference to the flowcharts shown in FIGS. 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 composed of a ROM, an input / output circuit and the like, and the CPU executes a control program stored in the ROM at an appropriate timing. This control unit corresponds to “lottery means” in the present invention.

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 that while the special symbol is being displayed fluctuating on the special symbol display 20,
It means the number of pachinko balls that have won the seed starting port 30 and the lower starting port 62. If the number of reserved balls has not reached the upper limit value (NO), 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 jackpot determination random number RA and a jackpot 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 a special symbol 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). And step S21
To the big hit determination random number RA, and based on the big hit determination random number RA, the fluctuation pattern random number RE
Is read / stored (acquired). 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. By acquiring the random number RE for the variation pattern, the variation pattern of the special symbol displayed on the special symbol display 20 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 symbol variation pattern in which the variation of symbols is stopped in a state in which a lost symbol array is displayed. Conversely,
In the case of 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, the random number RE for the fluctuation pattern
Is obtained, it is confirmed whether or not a jackpot is determined with reference to the jackpot determination random number RA. If it is determined that the jackpot is determined based on the jackpot determination random number RA, the jackpot is determined. The random number RE for variation pattern is obtained from the random number RE for variation pattern corresponding to the symbol variation pattern that can be displayed at the time of (1). 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-design symbol variation process of 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 fluctuating and forming a lost symbol array, and actually performs display. In the loss symbol variation process shown in FIG. 5, the loss symbol data RC and the reach determination random number RD are 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 special symbol array is operated so as to become 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” refers to a special symbol displayed in the right symbol display column 150 on the line on which 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 loss symbol variation processing is completed, the processing of the starting opening winning 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 big hit game process is a process for giving a big hit game to a player. For example, the cover 66 of the big winning 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 determined based on the determination result based on the random number RB for the big hit symbol stored in step S23 of the big hit symbol changing process, and when the special symbol forming the big hit symbol array is the probability variation symbol (YES). )), The process proceeds to the probability variation process of step S16, and if the symbol is not a probability variation symbol (NO), the process of starting opening winning is ended (return). The probability fluctuation is
When a big hit occurs in a predetermined special symbol, the probability of a big hit is changed (generally, the probability increases) until a predetermined period or a predetermined number of changes elapses. This is a game in which fluctuations are taking place.
Further, the probability variation process is a process performed for giving a probability variation game to a player. When the probability change process in step S16 ends, all the processes for starting opening winning are ended (return).

In the first embodiment, first, as shown in FIG. 6, when the change of the symbols displayed in the left symbol display column 110 and the right symbol display column 150 is stopped, the left symbol display column 110 The special symbol displayed on the line L1 is “4”, and the special symbol displayed on the line L1 of the right symbol display column 150 is “6”. Because no reach symbol array is formed on the five lines,
Even though the symbol displayed in the middle symbol display column 130 is still changing in the downward direction (the direction of the arrow A1 in the figure), the player recognizes that "losing" has been determined. (Note that the arrow A1 is not actually displayed on the screen 20a). In such a case, the player loses interest in the game at an early stage, and the game becomes uninteresting.

Therefore, in the first embodiment, as shown in FIG. 7, the shielding symbol S1 in which the character "copper" appears substantially at the center is indicated by an arrow B1 in the left symbol display column 110.
, And the symbol “4” displayed on the line L1 is shielded. As a result, the symbol "4" is indistinguishable from the player, and it is possible to recognize that a special symbol is displayed thereon, but it is not possible to identify what kind of number is displayed. Next, as shown in FIG. 8, the shielded symbol S2 in which the character “silver” appears substantially at the center is displayed in the right symbol display column 150 so as to move in the direction of arrow B2 in the figure. , The symbol "6" displayed on the line L1 is shielded. As a result, the symbol “6” is also in a state in which the symbol cannot be identified from the player. Also, in the middle symbol display column 130 in which the symbol is moving downward (in the direction of arrow A1 in the figure), the shield symbol S3 in which the character “gold” appears in the approximate center is also shown. It is displayed so as to move in the direction of the arrow B3, and the line L of the middle symbol display column 130 is displayed.
1 is displayed. In the present embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 7 to 9, any one of the letters “gold”, “silver”, and “copper” appears in the middle of the pattern imitating the shape of the “cup” The symbols S1, S2, S, depending on the design
3 shows an example of the configuration.

Next, as shown in FIG. 10, the shielding symbols S1, S3, and S2 displayed on the line L1 of the left, middle, and right symbol display columns 110, 130, and 150 are displayed on the screen 20.
It is displayed so that it moves from a to another place and disappears. Thereby, the left symbol display column 110 and the right symbol display column 150
The special symbol displayed on the line L1 is released from the shielded state and is made identifiable again. At this time, the special symbol again identifiable is “4” and “4” before being shielded. Instead of the special symbol "6", both are changed to the special symbol "7" and displayed. That is, the shielding symbol S
After the symbols 1, S2 and S3 are displayed so as to disappear, a symbol “7” is displayed on the line L1 of the left symbol display column 110 and the right symbol display column 150, and “7, 7” is displayed on the line L1. A reach symbol array of “↓, 7” is formed (↓ indicates that the symbol is changing). Such a change from the special symbols of "4" and "6" to the special symbol of "7" is performed while both symbols are shielded, and thus is invisible to the player. Therefore, even if the type of the special symbol is changed and displayed so that the reach symbol array is formed by the special symbol that can be identified again, the interest of the game is not spoiled because the player does not feel discomfort or the like.

In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG.
The characters “copper”, “gold”, and “silver” appear on the line L1 of the left, middle, and right symbol display columns 110, 130, and 150.
By displaying the two shielding symbols S1, S3, S2, the player is reminded of the cohesive idea of "gold, silver, copper" (for example, "gold, silver, copper"
Reminds me of the colors of medals and trophies awarded at competitions). In this way, by displaying the shielding symbol in a combination having a relationship of “gold, silver, copper”, the player is informed that a reach symbol array is formed by a plurality of lottery symbols that can be identified again. are doing.
Then, as shown in FIG. 10, "7,
When the reach symbol array of “↓, 7” is formed, the player has a sense of expectation that the jackpot symbol array of “7, 7, 7” is formed. In other words, in the process of notifying the player of the "big hit", the expectation for "reach"
The display gives a sense of expectation to the "big hit" step by step, and the production of the game is new and interesting.

In the first embodiment described above, after the reach symbol array of "7, ↓, 7" is formed on the line L1, as shown in FIG.
The symbol “7” is displayed on the line L1 of 0, and the big hit symbol array of “7, 7, 7” is formed on the line L1. In other words, the symbol variation mode in the first embodiment described above is such that when the lottery result is determined to be “big hit” by the control unit that has read the big hit determination random number, the player is given “big hit”. This is an aspect of the symbol variation for notifying that is, and it can be said that it is an aspect in a case where the “big hit symbol variation process” is performed. Further, when the special symbol “7” forming the big hit symbol array is a probability variation symbol, the player is notified that the probability variation game is given, and the player is subsequently notified of the probability variation game. A game is provided.

In the first embodiment, the display mode of a symbol when a plurality of shielding symbols are displayed in a combination having a relation of “gold, silver, copper” has been described. If the symbol is not displayed in a combination such as “gold, silver, copper”, the symbol is displayed in a manner described below. First, as shown in FIG. 8, the left symbol display column 110 and the right symbol display column 15
On the 0 line L, the shielding symbols S1 and S2 in which the characters "copper" and "silver" are displayed are displayed in order. And
The special symbols "4" and "6" are shielded by the shielding symbols S1 and S2, and cannot be identified. However, thereafter, on the line L1 of the middle symbol display column 130, the shielding symbol S3 in which the character of "gold" appears is not displayed, and a plurality of shielding symbols have a series of associations of "gold, silver, copper". Assume that no combination is formed. In such a case, the player is informed that the "reach symbol array" is not formed by a plurality of special symbols that can be identified again after the shielding display is performed. Therefore, the shielding pattern S
1, the special symbols "4" and "6" shielded by S2 are not changed in type while being shielded, and the left symbol display on the screen 20a after the shield display is performed. Line L of column 110 and right symbol display column 150
On "1", special symbols "4" and "6" are displayed as they are. In this case, since no reach symbol array is formed on the line L1, no big hit symbol array is formed, and no big hit game is given to the player.

[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, FIG.
FIGS. 2 to 15 show the display modes of the symbols displayed on the screen 20 a of the special symbol display 20 in the second embodiment. 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 symbol change stops in the order of the left symbol display column 110 and the right symbol display column 150, and finally the middle symbol display column 130
Is configured to stop the fluctuation of the symbol. In the process of changing the special symbol displayed in each symbol display column, FIG.
-"Starting port winning process" shown in the flowchart of FIG.
"Big hit symbol variation process" and "losing symbol variation process" are performed.

In the second embodiment, as shown in FIG. 12, when the change of the symbols displayed in the left symbol display column 110 and the right symbol display column 150 is stopped, the middle portion of both symbol display columns is stopped. Both "2" on the line L1 which is the display position
Special symbol is displayed. That is, a reach symbol array of "2, ↓, 2" is formed on the line L1,
The player has a feeling of expectation that the "big hit symbol arrangement" is formed. Here, for example, if the special symbol of “2” forming the reach symbol array of “2, ↓, 2” is not the probability variation symbol, then the big hit symbol array of “2, 2, 2” is formed. Even if it is done, the probability variation game is not given to the player. If the probability change game is not awarded,
Since the probability of a big hit in subsequent games will not increase,
The expectation of the "big hit" that the player has is usually smaller than the case where the reach symbol array is formed by the probability variation symbols. Therefore, in the gaming machine according to the present embodiment,
As shown in FIG. 13, each of the left, center, and right symbol display columns 11
"Copper", "gold",
The shielded symbols S1, S3, S2 showing the character of "silver" are displayed, respectively, and the symbol "2" displayed on the line L1 of the left and right symbol display columns 110, 150 is shielded and cannot be identified. Is done. The manner in which the shielding patterns S1, S3, and S2 of "copper", "gold", and "silver" appear and are displayed on the screen 20a is the same as in the first embodiment.

Then, as shown in FIG.
The shielding patterns S1, S3, S2 of "copper", "gold", and "silver" displayed above are displayed so as to move from the screen 20a and disappear, and the left symbol display column 110 and the right symbol display column 1
The special symbol of “2” displayed on the 50 line L1 can be identified again. However, the special symbol “2” is changed to the symbol “7” which is the probability variation symbol while being shielded, and the left symbol display column 110 and the right symbol display column after the shielding display is performed. A special symbol “7” is displayed on the 150 line L1. Thereby, the line L
On 1, not the reach symbol array of “2, ↓, 2” before the shielding display, but the reach symbol array of the probability variation symbol of “7, ↓, 7” is displayed. Also in the second embodiment,
Such a change from the special symbol of "2" to the special symbol of "7" is performed while each special symbol is being shielded, and thus is invisible to the player. Therefore, even if the type of each special symbol is suddenly changed, the player does not feel uncomfortable or the like, so that the interest of the game is not spoiled.

As described above, in the gaming machine according to the present embodiment, the reach symbol array is temporarily displayed with the symbol "2" which is not the probability variation symbol, and then the type (number) of each special symbol is changed. Thus, a new reach symbol array with the symbol “7”, which is a probability variation symbol, is displayed. With such a display, the player comes to have a feeling of expectation that even if the player reaches the reach, the player may develop into a reach based on a probability variation symbol that is more advantageous to the player.

In the second embodiment, as shown in FIG. 14, after a reach symbol array of "7, ↓, 7" is formed on the line L1, as shown in FIG. 13
The symbol “6” is displayed on the line L1 of “0”, and “7,
6, 7 "is formed. That is, the second
In the symbol fluctuation mode shown in the embodiment, the lottery result is “out” by the control unit that has read out the big hit determination random number.
This is a symbol variation mode for notifying the player of the "losing" when it is determined that the symbol pattern is "losing", and it can be said that this is one mode when the "losing symbol variation process" is performed. After all, no big hit game is given to the player, and therefore no probability varying game is given.

[Other Embodiments] In the above-mentioned 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 and second embodiments, a plurality of shield symbols are displayed in a combination having a relation of “gold, silver, copper”, so that a reach symbol array is formed after the shield display. Although the display mode in which the player is notified of the fact is exemplified, a plurality of shielding symbols are displayed in a combination other than "gold, silver, and copper", for example, in a combination of "gold, silver, and iron", so that the shielding display is performed. The player may be notified later that the reach symbol array is not formed. By performing such a surprising display, it is possible to further increase the sense of expectation and urgency for the big hit that the player has.

(B) In the first and second embodiments, a plurality of shielded symbols are displayed in a combination having a relation of "gold, silver, copper", so that a reach symbol array is formed after the shielded display. Although the display mode of notifying the player of the fact has been illustrated, the present invention is not limited to such a mode. For example, by displaying a plurality of shielded symbols in a combination of “gold, gold, gold”, the player can be notified that a reach symbol array is formed after the shielded display. In other words, the “relevant combination” that displays a plurality of shielded symbols indicates that the characters appearing in the plurality of shielded symbols are all the same, and informs the player that a reach symbol array will be formed. It may be.

(C) In the first and second embodiments, when a plurality of shielding symbols are displayed in a combination having a relation of “gold, silver, copper”, a special symbol that can be identified again is used. Although the display mode in which the reach symbol array is always formed is illustrated, the present invention is not limited to such a mode. For example,
Even if a plurality of shielded symbols are displayed in a combination having a relationship of “gold, silver, copper”, the reach symbol array may not be formed by a special symbol that can be identified again. In addition, for example, by displaying a plurality of shielding symbols in a combination having a relationship of "gold, silver, copper", a reach symbol array is not always formed after the shielding display, but a reach symbol array is formed. The player may be notified that the probability of being played is higher than usual.

(D) In the first and second embodiments, 3
Although the display mode in which the reach symbol array is formed after the shield display is performed by one shield symbol is illustrated, the reach symbol array may be formed even when such shield display is not performed. Of course. In other words, even if no shield symbol is displayed and no shield display is performed, a reach symbol array may be formed to reach the reach state, and a big hit symbol array may be formed to form a big hit.

(E) In the first and second embodiments,
Although the example in which the shielding symbol is configured by the symbol imitating the shape of the “cup” has been described, the invention is not limited to this. The shielding symbol can be composed of any symbol as long as it has a color, a shape, and the like that can shield the special symbol and make it indistinguishable. For example, the shielding pattern may be configured by a decorative pattern for decorating the background of the screen, a character pattern to be displayed on the screen to entertain the player, or the like.

(F) In the first and second embodiments, the example in which the lottery symbol for allowing the player to recognize the information on the grant of the privilege is the "special symbol" has been described. It does not do. For example, the present invention can be applied to a case where the lottery symbol is constituted by a “normal symbol” in a third-class pachinko machine.

(G) In the first and second embodiments, the change of the symbols 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.

(H) In the first and second embodiments, an example is shown in which the present invention is applied to a vertical scroll type pachinko machine in which symbol display columns are configured in a vertical direction. It is not limited. For example, the present invention can be applied to a horizontal scroll type pachinko machine in which symbol display columns are configured in a horizontal direction and a lottery symbol fluctuates in a horizontal direction.

(I) In the first and second embodiments, an example is shown in which the screen 20a is composed of three symbol display columns of left, middle, and right. However, 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.

(J) In the first and second embodiments, the mode of the symbols displayed in the symbol display column of the screen 20a in the 5-line machine has been described. It may be a display mode. For example, the present invention can be applied to a one-line machine or an eight-line machine.

(K) In the first and second embodiments, the present invention is applied to the pachinko machine 10, but a gaming machine other than the first-type pachinko machine (for example, a third-type pachinko machine, a slot machine, an arrangement machine, and the like) The present invention can be similarly applied to a ball machine, a video game machine, or the like) having a display unit for changing and displaying symbols.

[0044]

According to the present invention, a gaming machine capable of giving a new interest to a process of notifying a player of a big hit or not to increase the expectation and the urgency of the big hit held by the player. Can be provided.

[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 starting opening winning process.

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

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

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

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

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

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

FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of content displayed on a screen of a special symbol display according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of contents displayed on a screen of a special symbol display according to the first embodiment.

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

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

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

FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of contents displayed on a screen of a special symbol display according to the second 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 110 ... Left design display Column 130: Middle symbol display column 150: Right symbol display column S1, S2, S3 ... Shielding symbol

 ──────────────────────────────────────────────────続 き Continued on the front page F term (reference) 2C088 AA35 AA36 EB55

Claims (2)

[Claims] 1. A lottery means for selecting a winning of a privilege which is advantageous to a player, and a display means for displaying a plurality of lottery symbols for allowing a player to recognize a lottery result by the lottery means, wherein the lottery is provided. When the result is a big hit, in the gaming machine in which the plurality of lottery symbols are displayed in a predetermined display mode by the display means, the display means includes at least one lottery symbol among the plurality of lottery symbols. A gaming machine that performs a shielded display in which a symbol is shielded to make it indistinguishable, and then displays the shielded lottery symbol in an identifiable state again to form a part of the predetermined display mode. 2. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the display means performs a shielded display by displaying a plurality of shielded symbols for shielding the lottery symbols in a relevant combination. .