JP2003038778A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine which can make games highly attractive by flexibly altering the display pattern of figures to be displayed on a visible display part according to the shifting of game states. SOLUTION: The display pattern of the figures c being displayed as first and third figures 19 and 21 changes to that combining the design information z2 with identifying information y2('2') from that of the design information z2(the design of 'child of water') (Fig. 6(a)) almost simultaneously with the formation of a ready-for-winning state. On the other hand, as to remaining one row of figures (middle figures) being variably displayed, the display pattern of the design information z2 alone is changed to that combining the design information z2 with the identifying information y2. At the visible display part H, the middle figures being variably displayed are variably displayed slowly in the imaginable order of arrangement by identifying information y0 to y9. As a result, the players can guess the figures being gradually varied at the visible display part H from the identifying information y0 to y9.

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a gaming machine provided with a symbol display means provided with a visible display section capable of displaying a plurality of types of symbols in a variable manner.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, a pachinko machine, which is a kind of gaming machine, is provided with a symbol display means provided with a visible display section capable of displaying a plurality of symbols in a variable manner. As a concrete example thereof, a symbol display means capable of displaying symbols in three columns on a liquid crystal screen is known. In a pachinko machine equipped with such a symbol display means, various states can be recognized from the aspect of the combination of symbols displayed on the visible display section.

For example, when two specific columns of symbols are displayed as the same symbol on the visible display section, the reach state can be recognized from the mode of combination of the symbols. Furthermore, when three columns of symbols are displayed on the visible display unit as the same symbol, the big hit state can be recognized from the mode of combination of the symbols.

By the way, as the symbols displayed on the visible display portion, numerical symbols such as "1", "2", ..., "One", "D" ..., or "Spring", "Autumn" ... "A""B"
Character patterns such as ... are used. Also humans,
Character patterns in the form of animals, robots, etc. are used. However, in the case of the former design,
While the display form of the visible display part lacks interest, in the latter case, it was difficult for the player to grasp the arrangement order of the symbols.

Therefore, in a pachinko machine, a design in which a numerical design or a character design whose arrangement order can be assumed is integrated (or added) to the character design described above has been widely used. According to such a design, it is interesting that the character is displayed on the visible display part,
A player can easily understand the arrangement order of the symbols by the numerical symbols and the character symbols.

[0006]

However, the player is most interested in what kind of symbol is displayed on the visual display unit and, as a result, whether the reach state or the jackpot state is reached. Therefore, although initially showing an interest in the character design itself, when the character gets tired of the character itself, he / she has no interest in the design itself. In addition, since the character design is integrated (or provided) with a numerical design and a character design, unless the design is displayed based on the sequence order assumed by the numerical design and the character design, there is a fear that the player may feel distrust. there were. Therefore, the effect (variation pattern) performed on the visual display unit
Was a factor that was constrained.

The present invention has been made by paying attention to the problems existing in such a conventional technique, and the purpose thereof is to display a symbol displayed on the visible display portion in accordance with the transition of the game state. An object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine that can have a higher interest in the game by flexibly changing the form.

[0008]

In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, the invention according to claim 1 is provided with a pattern display means provided with a visible display portion capable of displaying a plurality of kinds of symbols in a variable manner. In the gaming machine in which a game is played by a combination of the symbols displayed on the visible display unit, the plurality of types of symbols are composed of identification information and design information,
The gist of the present invention is to provide a control means for controlling the symbol display means so as to display at least one of the identification information and the design information according to the transition of the gaming state.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, in the gaming machine according to the first aspect, when the control means forms a reach state when a combination of symbols displayed on the visible display portion is formed. While the identification information and the design information are displayed on the visible display unit, at least one of the identification information and the design information is displayed on the visible display unit when the reach state is not formed. The gist is to control the symbol display means.

According to a third aspect of the invention, in the gaming machine according to the first aspect, when the control means forms a reach state when the combination of the symbols displayed on the visible display portion is formed. The gist is to control the symbol display means so as to display one of the identification information and the design information on the visible display unit.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in the gaming machine according to the first aspect, the control means displays a case in which a variable display of symbols is performed on the visible display portion and is displayed on the visible display portion. The gist is to control the symbol display means so that different information is displayed on the visible display unit when the reach state is formed as a combination of symbols.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, in the gaming machine according to the first aspect, the design information is a character, and the control means has a mode of combination of the symbols displayed on the visible display section. When the reach state is formed, by changing the display mode of the character in the visible display unit, the symbol display means is provided so as to derive the symbols that constitute the combination mode of the symbols displayed in the visible display unit. The point is to control.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, in the gaming machine according to any one of the first to fifth aspects, the identification information is a plurality of types of numbers, letters, symbols, or symbols. The gist is that the information makes it possible to assume the arrangement order of the symbols.

[0014]

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION An embodiment in which the present invention is embodied in a pachinko gaming machine (hereinafter referred to as "pachinko machine"), which is a type of the present invention, will be described with reference to FIGS.

As shown schematically in FIG. 1, in a pachinko machine 10, a vertical rectangular middle frame 12 for setting various game components is opened, closed and attached to the front side of the opening of an outer frame 11 forming the outer frame of the machine body. It is freely assembled. And, on the front side of the middle frame 12, a game board 13 arranged inside the machine.
A front frame 14 having a glass frame for see-through protection and an upper bowl 15 are assembled and aligned so as to be openable and closable in a sideways open state. Further, at the bottom of the middle frame 12, a lower bowl plate 16,
A hitting ball launching device 17 and the like are attached. Further, a symbol display device 18 as a symbol display means for playing a symbol combination game by changing a plurality of types of symbols is arranged at substantially the center of the game area of the game board 13.

Here, a specific structure of the symbol display device 18 will be described with reference to FIG. The symbol display device 1
8 is provided with a visible display portion H composed of a liquid crystal screen, and the visible display portion H has a plurality of columns (three columns in the present embodiment) of the first symbol (left symbol) as shown in FIG. ) 19,
The second symbol (middle symbol) 20 and the third symbol (right symbol) 21 are displayed for each column. In addition, "display"
It means that the symbol is stopped in a state in which the player can identify the symbol on the visible display portion H, and "stop" means a so-called swing fluctuation, which is a stopped state and a complete stop. It also includes any of the fixed stop states.

Further, the first to third symbols 19 to 21 in the present embodiment are, as shown in FIG. 3, a plurality of types (10 types) of character symbols a to j (hereinafter, "symbol a", "symbol b").・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ “Design j”)). The symbols a to j are arranged in the order of the symbols (“0” to
The number is "9" and is arranged in ascending order. ) Can be assumed, and design information z0 to z9 for identifying a character individually corresponding to a plurality of types of designs depending on the form of the design. More specifically, "pattern a" is "0 (y0)" and "Kaze no Ko (z
0) ”design,“ design b ”is“ 1 (y1) ”and“ Fukami (z1) where wind child has grown ”, and“ design c ”is“ 2 ”
(Y2) "and" water child (z2) "design," design d "is" 3 (y3) "and" water god grown water god (z3) "design, and" design e "is" 4 " (Y4) "and" Thunder child (z
4) ”, the“ design f ”is a combination of“ 5 (y5) ”and“ thunder god Raijin (z5) ”. In addition, "design g" is a design of "6 (y6)" and "child of fire (z6)", and "design h" is "7 (y7)" and "fire god (z7) where the child of fire has grown". Design, "design i" is "8 (y8)" and "Iwanoko (z8)" design, "design j" is "9 (y9)" and "Iwako (Iwagami) (z
9) ”designs are combined together.

On the visible display portion H, different symbols can be displayed for each column as the first to third symbols 19 to 21. Therefore, the player can recognize any state of the big hit state, the reach state, or the out-of-range state from the combination mode of the first to third symbols 19 to 21 displayed on the visible display portion H. For example,
As shown in FIG. 2, the first image displayed on the visible display unit H is displayed.
When the third symbols 19 to 21 are the same symbol (the same character (symbol d)), the big hit state can be recognized from the mode of the combination. Also, the specific 2
When the rows (for example, the first symbol 19 and the third symbol 21) are the same symbol (the same character), the reach state can be recognized from the combination mode. Furthermore, the first to third symbols 19 displayed on the visible display portion H
If all of ~ 21 are different, or if one row of symbols is displayed with a symbol different from the symbols constituting the reach state (so-called "reach-reach"), the shift state is recognized from the combination mode. You can

Further, these plural kinds of symbols (symbols a to
The pattern j) is "pattern a" in the vertical direction with respect to the visible display portion H.
(0) ”→“ design b (1) ”→“ design c (2) ”→ ・ ・
The numbers are variably displayed (scroll display) in ascending order in the order of → “symbol i (8)” → “symbol j (9)”. The term "variable display" means that the symbols are not displayed in the visible display unit H in a temporarily stopped state or a fixed stopped state, and the type of symbols displayed in the visible display unit H is changed. Says that it is fluctuating. Then, on the visible display portion H, any one of a plurality of types of symbols that are variably displayed for each column (this symbol becomes the first to third symbols 19 to 21, respectively).
Is displayed.

Also, as shown in FIG. 1, the game board 13
In the approximate center of the game area, a start winning port 22 is arranged below the symbol display device 18 to open and close by a solenoid (not shown). Further, the starting winning opening 22
A special winning opening 23, which is opened and closed by a solenoid (not shown), is arranged below. Therefore, the game ball hit in the game area of the game board 13 by the operation of the hitting ball launching device 17 wins in the starting winning opening 22, or based on the stored value of the number of balls reserved for starting, the symbol display device 18 Then, a symbol combination game is to be played.

The "memorized value of the number of balls reserved for starting" is stored within the range of a predetermined upper limit value (generally 4) of the number of game balls winning the starting winning opening 22 during the change of the symbol. It is the value. Then, when the stored value is 0 (zero), a symbol combination game is performed by winning the game ball into the starting winning opening 22, and when the stored value is other than 0 (zero), the stored value is set to the stored value. Based on the symbol combination game. The stored value is incremented by 1 when the game ball is won in the starting winning port 22, and is decremented by 1 when the symbol combination game is started.

Then, as a result of the symbol combination game, when the first to third symbols 19 to 21 are displayed as the same symbol on the visible display portion H (state of FIG. 2),
The player is given a chance to win a large number of game balls by opening and closing the special winning opening 23 in a big hit state.

On the back side of the pachinko machine 10,
Main control board 24 (hereinafter,
It is called "main board". ) Is attached (indicated by a broken line in FIG. 1). Then, to the main board 24, a symbol control board (hereinafter, referred to as "symbol board") 25 as a control means for executing the symbol control on the symbol display device 18 is connected (indicated by a broken line in FIG. 1). Show.). This pattern board 25
The various control signals output from the main board 24 are input, and the symbol control of the symbol display device 18 is executed based on various control commands constituting the control signals. Then, in the visible display portion H, the symbol combination game according to the control command is performed, so that the symbols are variably displayed for each column and then displayed as the first to third symbols 19 to 21. It has become.

Next, specific structures of the main board 24 and the pattern board 25 will be described in detail with reference to FIG. First, the main board 24 will be described. The main board 24 is a main CPU 26 that controls the entire pachinko machine 10.
A ROM 27 and a RAM 28 are connected to the main CPU 26. And the ROM 2
In 7, a game control program for controlling the pachinko machine 10 is stored and held. Further, in the ROM 27, big hit determination random numbers (0 to 630), big hit symbol random numbers (0 to 9), left out symbol random numbers (0 to 9), right out symbol random numbers (0 to 9), middle out symbol random numbers. (0-9) is stored and held. Further, in the ROM 27, reach determination random numbers (0 to 59) and fluctuation pattern distribution random numbers (0
To 77), and various control commands corresponding to the extracted values of the various random numbers described above are stored and held.

The "variation pattern" means the first to the third.
From the start of the variable display of the symbols 19 to 21 until the symbols 19 to 21 finally stop the predetermined symbols, the symbols 19 to 21 within the variation time predetermined for each of the variation patterns. 21 shows an operation pattern of No. 21. That is, the variation pattern corresponds to the effect performed by the symbol display device 18, and, for example,
The operation patterns of the respective symbols 19 to 21 are shown such that when a reach state is reached, a predetermined symbol is frame-fed, fast-forwarded, or a character other than the symbol is operated.

The random number for jackpot determination is extracted when a game ball is won in the starting winning port 22, and it is determined whether or not a jackpot is obtained based on the extracted value. That is, the ROM 27 has a big hit determination random number (0
~ 630), a predetermined jackpot value (for example, 7 and 373) for determining a jackpot is stored, and the main CPU 26 determines that the jackpot is a jackpot when the extracted value matches the jackpot value. To do.

The big hit symbol random number is a random number for determining the symbol to be finally fixedly stopped when the big hit value is extracted from the big hit judging random number. And, 0 (zero) to 9 which is the numerical value of the big hit symbol random number is 10 described above.
Corresponds to different types of designs. Therefore, when the big hit state is determined by the extraction of the big hit determination random number, the symbol corresponding to the numerical value extracted from the big hit symbol random number is determined as the symbol to be fixedly stopped.

Further, each outlier symbol random number is a random number for finally determining the symbol to be fixedly stopped when a numerical value other than the jackpot value is extracted from the jackpot determination random number. Then, the left-handed symbol random number is the first symbol 19
In, the out-of-center symbol random number corresponds to the second symbol 20, and the out-of-right symbol random number corresponds to the third symbol 21. Furthermore, 0 (zero) to 9, which is the numerical value of each of the stray symbol random numbers, corresponds to the above-described 10 types of symbols (symbol a to symbol j), like the numerical value of the jackpot symbol random number.

The reach determining random number is extracted when a numerical value other than the jackpot value is extracted from the jackpot determining random number, and the visible display portion H is extracted according to the extracted value.
Is a random number for deciding whether or not to perform the effect of reach. In addition, "out of reach" means, for example, in a reach state in which the first and third symbols 19 and 21 are the same symbol, the second symbol 20 displays a symbol different from both the symbols 19 and 21, and is in a detached state. It is what

In the ROM 27, a predetermined reach determination value (for example, 3, 7, 13, 19, 2) for determining reach among the reach determination random numbers (0 to 59).
9) is stored, and the main CPU 26 determines the reach when the extracted value matches the reach determination value (that is, produces the outly reach).

Further, the variation pattern distribution random number is stored in the ROM.
It is a random number for determining which variation pattern is used to vary the first to third symbols 19 to 21 out of the plurality of variation patterns stored in advance in 27. The variation patterns are classified into tables for big hit state, reach state (out of reach), out of reach, etc., and the values of the variation pattern distribution random numbers are distributed for each table. . Therefore, the main CPU2
For example, when the big hit is determined by extracting the big hit determination random number, 6 selects a change pattern corresponding to the numerical value of the extracted fluctuation pattern distribution random number from the big hit state change pattern table.

Further, in the RAM 28, the stored value stored as the number of starting balls to be reserved among the game balls won in the starting winning opening 22 and the control command calculated by the main CPU 26 are stored and held. Has become.
Then, the main CPU 26, the symbol display device 1
When instructing the symbol control to 8, the control command or the like is output to the symbol substrate 25 as a control signal (8-bit signal MD0 to MD7) via the output port 29 and the output buffer 30. Further, the main CPU 26 reads the control signal constituting the control signal to the symbol board 25 in synchronization with the output timing of the control signal (INT signal) (INT).
A signal or a strobe signal) is output via the output port 29 and the output buffer 30.

Next, the main substrate 24 is the pattern substrate 25.
A mode in which various control commands for instructing symbol control are output will be described. Main CPU of the main board 24
26 is associated with the winning of the game ball into the starting winning opening 22.
The jackpot determination random number, and each numerical value of the jackpot symbol random number is extracted. Further, the main CPU 26 determines whether or not the numerical value of the extracted jackpot determination random number matches the jackpot value. When the determination results match, the main CPU 26 determines the symbol corresponding to the numerical value of the jackpot symbol random number as the symbol to be fixedly stopped. Further, the main CPU 26 extracts the numerical value of the fluctuation pattern allocation random number and selects the fluctuation pattern corresponding to the numerical value from the fluctuation pattern table for the big hit state.

Therefore, the main CPU 26 first instructs the symbol board 25 to start variation of each of the symbols 19 to 21, and the variation consisting of the variation pattern selected by the extracted value of the variation pattern distribution random number. The start command is output as a control signal. Next, the main CPU 26 outputs, as a control signal, each symbol designating command corresponding to the first to third symbols 19 to 21 determined by the extracted value of the jackpot symbol random number. Further, the main CPU 26 outputs, as a control signal, an all-symbol stop command for definitely stopping all the symbols designated by the symbol designating command, along with the variation time corresponding to the variation pattern output by the variation start command.

On the other hand, when the extracted numerical value of the jackpot determination random number does not match the jackpot value, the main CPU
Reference numeral 26 extracts the random numbers for reach determination and the numerical values of the respective outlier symbol random numbers. Further, the main CPU 26 determines whether or not the numerical value of the extracted reach determination random number matches the reach determination value. Then, when the determination results match, the main CPU 26 determines the symbol while considering the value of each of the extracted random symbol random numbers. That is, constituting the reach state, for example, while determining the symbol to be displayed so that the first symbol 19 and the third symbol 21 are the same symbol, the second symbol 20 is different from both the symbols 19 and 21. Determine the design.

Further, the main CPU 26 extracts the numerical value of the fluctuation pattern distribution random number and selects the fluctuation pattern corresponding to the numerical value from the fluctuation pattern table for the reach state. Then, the main CPU 26 transmits a variation start command, each symbol designating command and an all symbol stop command to the symbol board 25, as in the case of the big hit described above.

Further, when the numerical value of the extracted random number for reach determination does not match the reach determination value, the main CPU 26 determines the symbol while taking into consideration the numerical values of the extracted random pattern random numbers. That is, the main CPU 26 determines a symbol that constitutes the reach state, for example, the first symbol 19 and the third symbol 21 are displayed as different symbols.

Further, the main CPU 26 extracts the numerical value of the fluctuation pattern allocation random number, and selects the fluctuation pattern corresponding to the numerical value from the fluctuation pattern table for the outlying state. Then, the main CPU 26 transmits a variation start command, each symbol designating command and an all symbol stop command to the symbol board 25, as in the case of the big hit described above.

Next, a specific structure of the symbol board 25 for inputting the control command and executing the symbol control of the symbol display device 18 based on the command will be described with reference to FIG. The symbol board 25 includes a sub CPU 31 for performing symbol control on the symbol display device 18, and the sub CPU 31 has an input buffer 32 for inputting a control signal and a read signal output from the main board 24. Are connected. Further, an input port 33 is connected to the input buffer 32, and the control signal is input to the sub CPU 31 via the input port 33.

The sub CPU 31 has a ROM 3
4 and RAM 35 are connected. And the RO
In M34, a control program for performing the symbol control of the symbol display device 18, and specific control contents corresponding to the variation start command (variation pattern) (operation patterns of the first to third symbols 19 to 21) Is stored in memory. On the other hand, the RAM 35 is configured to store and hold the control commands and the like output from the main board 24.

Then, the sub CPU 31 controls the display contents of the symbol display device 18 (visible display portion H) according to the operation patterns of the first to third symbols 19 to 21 by VDP (video. Display processor) 36
Are connected. A character ROM 37 and a video RAM 38 are connected to the VDP 36. Then, in the character ROM 37, the identification information y0 to y9 (image information corresponding to the numbers "0" to "9") and design information z0 to z9 (image information of each character corresponding to the symbols a to j). Various image information such as is stored. Further, the video RAM 38 stores display control information for controlling the display content of the visible display unit H generated by the VDP 36 based on the image information stored in the character ROM 37 based on the control command or the like. It is supposed to be retained. And
The VDP 36 converts the display control information into an image signal and outputs the image signal to the symbol display device 18.

Therefore, the pattern substrate 25 (sub CPU 3
1), when the control command is input, based on the control content corresponding to the command, the first to third symbols 19 to 21
Controls the operation pattern from the fluctuation start to the fixed stop. On the other hand, the VDP 36 generates display control information corresponding to the control content, and controls the display content of the symbol display device 18 (visible display unit H) based on the display control information.
As a result, the visible display portion H has the first to third symbols 19
21 to 21 are displayed, the display contents on the visible display portion H are controlled according to the operation patterns of the respective symbols 19 to 21.

Next, the pachinko machine 1 configured as described above
In 0, a mode in which the display form of the symbols displayed on the visible display unit H is changed according to the transition of the game state during the symbol combination game performed on the symbol display device 18 (visible display unit H) will be described.

In the "symbol combination game", all the columns (three columns in this embodiment) have been set since the symbols started to change.
About 1 is a game corresponding to the variation pattern until the predetermined symbol is fixedly stopped. Also, during the game, the symbols are variably displayed, the reach is generated (during the reach production, etc.), the reach production is changed from the normal reach (normal reach) to the special reach (super reach), the big hit. Various game states such as the state of being confirmed and the state of being out of order are changing. In the state in which the symbols are variably displayed, any state in which the symbols in all columns are variably displayed, the symbols in two columns are variably displayed, and the symbols in one column are variably displayed is included. Also,
The variable display of the symbols in one row includes both the state in which the symbols are displayed in the reach state combination and the state in which the symbols are not displayed in the combination state. Further, the “super reach” is a reach state in which a big hit state is more likely to occur than in the normal reach.

In the present embodiment, the display form of the symbols is flexibly changed according to the change of the game state in the symbol combination game described above according to the situation (pattern), so that the game is more interesting. It is supposed to have. That is, depending on the control contents of the fluctuation pattern,
The design is displayed (or variably displayed) only with the design information z0 to z9 (character), or is displayed (or variably displayed) in a form in which the design information z0 to z9 and the identification information y0 to y9 are combined. Therefore, according to the transition of the game state during the symbol combination game, the effect that effectively uses the limited space (area) of the visible display section H, the effect that clearly shows the arrangement order of the symbols to the player, Alternatively, it is possible to realize an effect that is not bound by the arrangement order of the symbols.

A specific configuration for realizing the symbol display mode of this embodiment will be described below. When the sub CPU 31 of the design board 25 inputs the variation start command and the design designation command from the main board 24, the symbols corresponding to the design designation command are the first to third designs 19 to 21.
To decide. Further, the VDP 36 of the design substrate 25
Is the identification information y0 to y9 stored in the character ROM 37, and display control information for displaying (or changing display) the determined symbol in a predetermined display form according to the control content of the changing pattern. Design information z0-z
It is generated based on 9.

More specifically, the VDP 36 is
When the variation pattern is selected from the out-of-range table, the following display control information is generated. That is,
After starting variable display of symbols in the symbol combination game, the first to third commands designated by the symbol designating command
In the pattern until the symbols 19-21 are fixedly stopped,
Display control information for displaying (or variably displaying) the design only by the design information z0 to z9 is generated.

On the other hand, the VDP 36 generates the following display control information when the variation pattern is selected from the big hit / reach state table. That is, in the pattern from the start of the variable display of the symbols in the symbol combination game to the formation of the reach state by the first and third symbols 19 and 21, the symbols are used as design information z0.
Display control information for display (or variable display) only by z9 is generated. Then, after the reach state is formed in the symbol combination game, all the symbols 19
To 21 are displayed (temporarily stopped), the symbols are designed information z0 to z9 and identification information y0 to y in the pattern.
Display control information for display (or variable display) in combination with 9 is generated. As a result, in the reach effect during the symbol combination game, the player can identify the identification information y.
The arrangement order of the symbols can be grasped by 0 to y9. Further, as a result of the reach effect during the symbol combination game, when the out-of-position state or the big hit state is confirmed (that is, when the first to third symbols 19 to 21 are definitely stopped)
In, the display control information for displaying the design by only the design information z0 to z9 (fixed stop state) is generated.

Further, in the control contents, the VDP 36, as a reach effect in the symbol combination game, all the characters corresponding to the symbols a to j (total 1).
If it is shown that the production using 0 body is performed,
Display control information for displaying the character on the visible display unit H is generated based on the design information z0 to z9. As a result, it is possible to use the character to perform an effect that is not restricted by the arrangement order of the symbols. Then, each of the display control information generated in this manner is the pattern substrate 25.
Is stored and held in the video RAM 38, and is converted into an image signal in accordance with the control content (control timing) and output to the symbol display device 18.

Next, in the visible display portion H, the display control information generated corresponding to the control contents of the variation pattern displays a symbol (or a variable display) according to the transition of the game state during the symbol combination game. 5 to FIG.
It will be described based on.

FIGS. 5A to 5D show the flow of the fluctuation pattern in which the out-of-court state is determined without the reach state being formed after the symbol starts to fluctuate. In this pattern, a game ball hit in the game area of the game board 13 by the operation of the hitting ball launching device 17 wins at the starting winning opening 22, or based on the stored value of the number of starting pending balls, the main board 24 Outputs the fluctuation start command and each designating command to the design board 25 as control signals. Then, the pattern substrate 25 (sub CPU 31 and V
DP36) variably displays each symbol in three columns on the visible display portion H based on the variation start command and each symbol designation command output by the main board 24 (FIG. 5).
(A)). As a result, in the visible display portion H, a plurality of types of symbols are variably displayed in the vertical direction according to a predetermined arrangement order (the ascending order of the numbers as the identification information y0 to y9 shown in FIG. 3). At this time, as shown in FIG. 5A, the plurality of types of symbols are based on the display control information and the design information z0.
The variable display is performed only by ~ z9.

Then, after a predetermined time elapses from the start of variation of each of the symbols, the symbol substrate 25 displays a predetermined symbol among the plurality of types of symbols being displayed in variation as a first to third symbol 1
9 to 21 (designated by the designating command) are sequentially displayed. That is, first, in the visible display portion H,
Symbol c is displayed as the first symbol 19 (FIG. 5)
(B)). At this time, the design c that is the first design 19 displayed on the visible display portion H is displayed only by the image of the character corresponding to the design information z2 (design of "water child") based on the display control information. ing. Further, the displayed first symbol 19 is once in a stopped state, that is, in a so-called fluctuation state.

Next, in the visible display portion H, the third symbol 2
The symbol d is displayed as 1 (FIG. 5 (c)). At this time, the design d that is the third design 21 displayed on the visible display portion H is the design information z3 based on the display control information.
It is displayed only by the image of the character corresponding to (the design of “the water god who grew up in water”). Further, the displayed third symbol 21 is temporarily in a stopped state, that is, in a so-called fluctuation state. In this state, the player recognizes that the reach state is not formed by displaying different symbols as the first and third symbols 19 and 21.

Finally, in the visible display portion H, a symbol f is displayed as the second symbol 20 (FIG. 5 (d)). At this time, the design f which is the second design 20 displayed on the visible display portion H is the design information z5 based on the display control information.
It is displayed only by the image of the character corresponding to (the design of “the thunder god that the thunder child has grown”). Further, the displayed second symbol 20 is temporarily in a stopped state, that is, in a so-called fluctuation state.

Then, by the all symbol stop command output by the main board 24, the first to third symbols 19 to 2
When 1 is fixedly stopped, in the visible display portion H, the disengaged state is fixed. Also, the first to third symbols 19 to 21
Is design information z2, z5, based on the display control information.
Only the image of each character corresponding to z3 is displayed. Then, from this state, in the visible display portion H,
For the new (next) symbol combination game, variable display of each symbol in three columns is performed. Hereinafter, similarly, in the variation pattern in which the reach state is determined without the reach state being formed, as shown in FIGS. 5A to 5D, each symbol is displayed only by the design information z0 to z9. The symbol display device 18 is controlled so that (or variable display) is performed.

Next, FIGS. 6 (a) to 6 (d) show the flow of the variation pattern in which the reach state is formed after the symbols start to change, and the jackpot state is determined as a result of the reach effect. There is.

Also in this variation pattern, FIG.
As shown in FIG. 5, the variable display of the symbols in the three columns is performed on the visible display portion H. Further, a plurality of types of designs are similar to the above, based on the display control information, the design information z0 to z.
The variable display is performed only by 9. Then, in the visible display portion H, as shown in FIG.
The design c is the design information z2 as the first design 19 (“water child”).
The design is displayed only by the image of the character. Further, the displayed first symbol 19 is in a fluctuation fluctuation state.

Next, in the visible display portion H, the third symbol 2
The symbol c, which is the same symbol as the first symbol 19, is displayed as 1. In this state, the player can recognize in the visible display portion H that the reach state is formed from the combination mode of the first and third symbols 19 and 21.

At the same time when the reach state is formed, the symbols c displayed as the first and third symbols 19 and 21.
The display form of is changed from the display form of only the design information z2 to the display form in which the identification information y2 (“2”) and the design information z2 are combined based on the display control information (FIG. 6).
(A)). That is, when the reach state is formed, each symbol is displayed (or displayed in a variable manner) by information different from that in the variable display. Therefore, the transition of the gaming state during the symbol combination game can be clarified by the variable display of the symbols (including the case where the reach state is not formed) and the case where the reach state is formed. Therefore, the player, by changing the display mode of the symbol,
It is possible to clearly understand that the game state (whether the reach state or not) has changed in the symbol combination game. Then, in the visible display portion H, a predetermined reach effect is performed based on the control content of the variation pattern.

On the other hand, the symbols (middle symbols) in the remaining one column in the variable display are formed in the reach state, and thus, like the first and third symbols 19 and 21, design information z0 to z9.
Based on the display control information, the display form is changed to a display form in which the identification information y0 to y9 and the design information z0 to z9 are combined (FIG. 6A). Then, in the visible display portion H, the middle symbols that are being variably displayed are arranged in the order shown in FIG. 3 (... → “design a (0)” → “design b (1)” →
The display is slowly changed according to the "symbol c (2)" → ...). In this state, the first and
After the same symbol as the third symbol 19 and 21 is displayed as the second symbol 20, when the confirmation is stopped, the jackpot state is developed (shifted).

In FIG. 6A, in the reach effect, a pattern a is formed by a combination of identification information y0 (“0”) and design information z0 (design of “cloud child”).
Is displayed on the visible display portion H by the variable display. Further, when the variable display of the middle symbols proceeds, the symbols b arranged on the ascending order side of the symbols a are displayed in the visible display portion H as identification information y1 (“1”) and design information z1 (“cloud The design of the "grown feng shrine" fluctuates in a combined display form (Fig. 6 (b)).

In this state, the player has the identification information y.
From 0 to y9 (the numbers "1" to "9"), it is possible to recognize that the symbols (middle symbols) that are being variably displayed are changing according to a predetermined arrangement order. In addition, the player, the first, the third
Identification information y2 of the pattern c displayed as the symbols 19 and 21
Recognize that is "2". As a result, the player
Since the identification information y0 of the symbol a is “0” in FIG. 6 (a), the next symbol is the first symbol, and the identification information y1 of the symbol b in FIG. 6 (b) is “1”, the first symbol is the first symbol. Third
It is recognized that the design is the same as the designs 19 and 21 (design c). In addition, the player can predict the symbols that are changing on the visible display portion H by the identification information y0 to y9,
It is possible to improve the expectation for a big hit state.

Next, when the variation display of the middle symbols further proceeds,
In the visible display portion H, the symbols c arranged on the ascending side of the symbol b fluctuate in a display form in which identification information y2 (“2”) and design information z2 (design of “water child”) are combined. (Fig. 6 (c)). Then, in this embodiment, in this state, the symbol c is temporarily displayed on the visible display portion H in a stopped state. At this stage, the player can recognize that the big hit state will be reached.

Then, by the all symbol stop command output by the main board 24, the first to third symbols 19 to 2
When 1 is fixedly stopped, the big hit state is fixed on the visible display portion H. In addition, substantially simultaneously with the fixed stop of the first to third symbols 19 to 21, the display form of each of the symbols 19 to 21 is
Based on the display control information, the display mode is changed to only the image of the character corresponding to the design information z2. Therefore, the player can clearly understand that the game state has changed (reach state → big hit state) in the symbol combination game by changing the symbol display mode. Then, the player is given a chance to win a large number of game balls by opening and closing the special winning opening 23.

On the other hand, when the variable display of the middle symbols further proceeds in the state of FIG. 6 (c), the visible display portion H has the symbols d arranged on the ascending order side of the symbols c as the identification information y3.
(“3”) and design information z3 (“Water god that the water child has grown”)
(Designs of) will fluctuate in a combined display form. In that state, when the first to third symbols 19 to 21 are fixedly stopped, in the visible display portion H, the disengaged state is fixed.
In addition, substantially simultaneously with the fixed stop of the first to third symbols 19 to 21, the display form of each of the symbols 19 to 21 is based on the display control information, design information z2 (first, third symbols 19, 2).
1) and the display form is changed to only the image of the character corresponding to the design information z3 (second pattern 20).

In the following, in the variation pattern in which the reach state is formed and the jackpot / out-of-range state is determined as a result of the reach effect, the display form of the symbol is changed in the same manner as the flow of FIGS. 6 (a) to 6 (d). The symbol display device 18 is controlled so as to perform.

Next, FIGS. 7 (a) and 7 (b) show variation patterns in the case of performing an effect using all the characters corresponding to the symbols a to j in the reach effect in the symbol combination game. The flow is shown. In this variation pattern, even in the reach state, the normal reach is switched to the super reach. Then, along with the transition (transition of the game state during the symbol combination game), the display form of the symbols is changed.

FIG. 7A shows the first and third symbols 19 and 2.
As a result of reach effect (normal reach effect) by 1 (symbol c), both the symbols 19 and 21 as the second symbol 20.
A state in which a different pattern (design d) is once displayed is shown. In this reach effect, as described above, the first and third symbols 1 are formed due to the reach state being formed.
9 and 21 are identification information y2 ("2") and design information z2 from the display form of only design information z2 (design of "water child").
The display mode is changed to a combination of. Further, the symbols in the remaining one column (middle symbols) in the variable display are also the identification information y0 to y9 and the design information from the display form of only the design information z0 to z9, like the first and third symbols 19 and 21. The display form changes to a combination of z0 to z9.

Then, in this state, the visible display portion H is
A background image SH for super reach is displayed based on the display control information output from the VDP 36 as an image signal (FIG. 7B). In addition, in the upper left and right corners of the visible display portion H,
In the state of FIG. 7A, the first and the first forming the reach state
Based on the display control information, the third symbols 19 and 21 are changed and displayed in the display form of only the design information z2 (design of "water child"). Further, on the cloud 41 drawn on the background image SH, all 10 characters corresponding to the symbols a to j are designed information z0 based on the display control information.
Only z9 is displayed. Therefore, the player can clearly understand that the game state has changed (normal reach → super reach) in the symbol combination game by changing the display form of the symbol. Further, in this effect, since the identification information y0 to y9 are not displayed, it is possible to perform an effect in which the movement of the character itself has a degree of freedom without being caught in the order of arrangement.
The importance of the character can be improved.

Then, in the visible display portion H, a game for determining the win or loss between the characters is played, and the symbols corresponding to the winners (characters) who have won to the end are derived as the second symbols 20. ing. More specifically, the content of the game will be described. Each character walks on the cloud 41 in a predetermined direction (for example, clockwise direction) in a row, and the holes opened in the cloud 41 with the elapse of a predetermined time. Multiple characters are dropped from (disappear). That is, a chair-picking game, which is a known game, is played by each character. Then, a game is repeatedly played by the characters that have not been dropped from above the cloud 41, and one character that has finally won is the winner. That is, in the visible display portion H, the character display mode (character movement, movement) is performed based on the display control information so that the character moves in accordance with the progress of the game.
Is changing. The second symbol 20 derived by the game is the symbol designated by the symbol designating command, and in this effect, the second symbol 20 is also derived in accordance with the result of the game by the character. It is a reach production.

Then, as a result of the game, the first and third symbols 1
When the same symbol as 9 and 21 (symbol c) is derived as the second symbol 20, as shown in FIG. 6C, the first to third symbols 1
9 to 21 are once displayed as the same symbol (symbol c). Further, when a symbol (symbol d) different from the first and third symbols 19 and 21 is derived as the second symbol 20, FIG.
As in (a), the first to third symbols 19 to 21 are once displayed. After that, when the first to third symbols 19 to 21 are fixedly stopped, in the visible display portion H, the big hit state or the outlying state is fixed. Also, the first to third symbols 19
At about the same time as the confirmation stop of ~ 21, the display form of each of the symbols 19-21 is based on the display control information, design information z2.
(Or it changes into the display form only of the image of the character corresponding to design information z3).

Therefore, according to this embodiment, the following effects can be obtained. (1) Depending on the transition of the game state during the symbol combination game, the symbols are displayed (or variably displayed) only with the design information z0 to z9, or the design information z0 to z9 and the identification information y0 to y.
It is also displayed (or displayed in a variable manner) in a form in which 9 are combined. Therefore, by flexibly changing the display form of the symbols according to the transition of the game state, it is possible to give the game a higher interest. Therefore, an effect that effectively uses the limited space (region) of the visible display portion H, an effect that clearly shows the arrangement order of the symbols to the player, or an effect that is not restricted by the arrangement order of the symbols is realized. be able to.

(2) When the reach state is formed, the display form of the design is changed from the display form of only the design information z0 to z9 to the display form in which the identification information y0 to y9 and the design information z0 to z9 are combined. It is changing. Therefore, the player can clearly understand that the game state in the symbol combination game has changed (whether or not the reach state) due to the change in the symbol display mode. Further, in the reach state, the player identifies information y0 to y9 (“0”).
By displaying "~" 9 "), it is possible to recognize that the symbols (middle symbols) that are being variably displayed are fluctuating according to a predetermined arrangement order. Therefore, the player can predict (predict) the symbols coming to the visible display portion H, and can increase the expectation of the big hit state.

(3) At the time of reach (super reach),
The reach effect is performed using the characters displayed only by the design information z0 to z9. Therefore, it is possible to perform an effect in which the movement of the character itself has a degree of freedom without being restricted by the arrangement order of the symbols, and it is possible to improve the importance of the character.

(4) The design information z0 to z9 are characters (images), while the identification information y0 to y9 are numbers "0" to "9". Therefore, by displaying the character on the visible display unit H, the pachinko machine 10 can be made interesting. In addition, the number can be given to the character, so that the player can easily understand the order of arrangement of the symbols.

The above embodiment may be modified as follows. -In the said embodiment, although the identification information y0-y9 was made into the number, if it is the information which can assume the arrangement order of a symbol, it will not be limited to a number. The numeral may be in any form such as Arabic numeral or Chinese numeral. Further, instead of the numbers, the arrangement order of the symbols may be represented by letters, codes, symbols, or the like.

In the above embodiment, design information z0 to z9
Although the chair picking game is played by 10 characters corresponding to, other known games or games originally considered by the gaming machine manufacturer may be used. Also, 1
The game does not need to be played by 0 characters, and the game may be played by a plurality of types of selected characters (for example, 3 types, 4 types, etc.), and the game content is not particularly limited.

In the above-described embodiment, when the reach state is not formed, the design is displayed (or changed) only by the design information z0 to z9, and when the reach state is formed, the design identification information y0. ~ Y9 and design information z0 ~ z
Although the display (or the variable display) is made by combining 9 items, the reverse order may be used. That is, when the reach state is formed, the design is displayed (or variably displayed) only by the design information z0 to z9, and when the reach state is not formed, the design is identified by the identification information y0 to y9 and the design information z0. z
You may display (or change display) in the form which combined 9.

In the above embodiment, when the reach state is formed, the design information is identified as y0 to y9 and the design information is z0.
Although it is displayed (or variable display) in the form of combining ~ z9, the identification information y is displayed even when the reach state is formed.
The design may be displayed (or variably displayed) only by 0 to y9, or the design may be displayed (or variably displayed) only by the design information z0 to z9.

In the above-mentioned embodiment, when the reach state is not formed, the design is displayed (or changed) only by the design information z0 to z9, but in this case, only the identification information y0 to y9 is used as the design. Is displayed (or variable display), and when the reach state is formed, the identification information y0
~ Y9 and design information z0 to z9 may be displayed (or variable display) in the form of a combination. In this way, when the design is displayed (or changed) only by the identification information y0 to y9, the space (area) of the visible display portion H is widened as a space for performing other effects (for example, reach announcement or jackpot announcement). Can be used.

In the above embodiment, the display form of symbols can be appropriately changed according to the transition of the game state during the symbol combination game. For example, in the visible display portion H, the design is displayed (or variably displayed) in a form in which the identification information y0 to y9 and the design information z0 to z9 are combined, and after the reach is generated,
In the reach effect, the pattern may be displayed (or changed) only by the design information z0 to z9 when shifting to the super reach. In addition, when the out-of-range state or the big hit state is confirmed, the design information is identified by identifying information y0 to y9 and design information z0.
You may display in the form which combined z9.

Further, when the stored value of the starting pending ball is a predetermined value (for example, 3 or 4), the symbol is displayed (or variable display) only by the identification information y0 to y9, and when the value is other than the predetermined value. May display (or variably display) the design in a form in which the identification information y0 to y9 and the design information z0 to z9 are combined in the visible display portion H. By doing so, it is possible to more effectively give the player the impression that the variation time is shortened and the time efficiency is improved when the stored value is the predetermined value.

Further, at the time of a big hit by a probability variation pattern,
When shortening the variation time of the symbol until the start of the next big hit state, the symbol is displayed (or variable display) only by the identification information y0 to y9, and in other cases, the identification information y0
~ Y9 and design information z0 to z9 may be displayed (or variable display) in the form of a combination. The "probable change" means that after the big hit state ends with the probability change symbol, the big hit probability is set to be high (that is, the big hit becomes easy) before the next big hit state starts. Further, in the pachinko machine 10 (so-called time saving machine) having a time shortening function, when shortening the variation time of the symbols until the symbol combination game is played a predetermined number of times, the identification information y0 to y9 The design may be displayed (or variably displayed) only by itself, and in other cases, the design may be displayed (or variably displayed) in a form in which the identification information y0 to y9 and the design information z0 to z9 are combined. By doing so, it is possible to more effectively give the player an impression that the variation time is shortened and time efficiency is improved.

In the above embodiment, the design information z0
z9 is not limited to a character, and may be a pattern such as a Hanafuda, a playing card, a mahjong tile, or a character such as a human being, an animal, or a robot.

Next, the technical ideas that can be understood from the above-described embodiment and other examples will be added below. (A) In the gaming machine according to claim 1, the control means displays the identification information on the visible display portion when a variable display of symbols is performed on the visible display portion.

(B) In the gaming machine according to claim 1,
The design information is a character, and the control means is
When the form of the combination of the symbols displayed on the visible display section forms a reach state, a plurality of types of characters individually corresponding to all of the plurality of types of symbols are displayed on the visible display section, and the characters win or lose. By playing a game for determining, the symbol display means is controlled so as to derive a symbol that constitutes a mode of a combination of symbols displayed on the visible display unit.

(C) In the gaming machine described in the above-mentioned technical idea (B), the control means derives a mode of symbol combination using symbols corresponding to the characters who have survived as a result of the game. The symbol display means is controlled.

[0088]

According to the present invention, by flexibly changing the display form of the symbols displayed on the visible display portion in accordance with the transition of the game state, it is possible to make the game more interesting.

[Brief description of drawings]

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

FIG. 2 is a front view showing each symbol displayed on the visible display portion of the symbol display device.

FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a plurality of types of symbols displayed on the visible display unit.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration of a main control board and a pattern control board.

FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram illustrating a flow of a variation pattern in which a detached state is determined without a reach state being formed.

[Fig. 6] A reach state is formed, and as a result of reach production,
The schematic diagram explaining the flow of the fluctuation pattern which determines a big hit state.

FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram illustrating a series of flow of a variation pattern when performing an effect using all the characters corresponding to the symbols a to j in the reach state.

[Explanation of symbols]

H ... Visible display part, y0-y9 ... Identification information, z0-z9 ...
Design information, 10 ... Pachinko gaming machine (gaming machine), 18 ... Design display device (design display means), 19-21 ... First to third
Design, 25 ... Design control board (control means).

Claims (6)

[Claims] 1. A gaming machine, comprising a symbol display means provided with a visible display unit capable of displaying a plurality of types of symbols in a variable manner, wherein a game is played by a combination of symbols displayed on the visible display unit, A plurality of types of symbols are composed of identification information and design information, and control the symbol display means to display at least one of the identification information and the design information according to the transition of the game state. A gaming machine equipped with control means. 2. The control means displays the identification information and design information on the visible display portion when the combination of the symbols displayed on the visible display portion forms a reach state. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein when the reach state is not formed, the symbol display means is controlled so as to display at least one of the identification information and the design information on the visible display section. 3. The control means, when the combination mode of the symbols displayed on the visible display portion forms a reach state, displays one of the identification information and the design information on the visible display portion. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the symbol display means is controlled so as to be displayed on. 4. The control means, in a case where a variable display of symbols is performed on the visible display unit, and in a case where a form of a combination of symbols displayed on the visible display unit forms a reach state, The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the symbol display means is controlled so as to display different information on the visible display unit. 5. The design information is a character, and the control means displays the character on the visible display unit when the combination mode of the symbols displayed on the visible display unit forms a reach state. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the pattern display means is controlled so as to derive a symbol that constitutes a combination mode of the symbols displayed on the visible display unit by changing the mode. 6. The identification information is information that makes it possible to assume the arrangement order of the plurality of types of symbols by numbers, characters, symbols, or codes. The game machine described.