JP2003135660A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine which can help players by telling the timing of operation for stopping at target figures. SOLUTION: In the game machine, a variable display device with a plurality of variable display parts capable of varying display states is provided and one game is ended by deriving and displaying the results of displays on the plurality of variable display parts to generate specified wins when the results of the displays on the plurality of variable display parts present specified display patterns. It is also provided with an operation means for carrying out operations of deriving and displaying the results of displays on the variable display parts, a setting means which allows players to set the display patterns desired to be derived and displayed as the results of displays on the variable display parts by their operations, an annunciation means for telling the operation timings of the operation means that enables the deriving of the display patterns set by the setting means.

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention includes a variable display device capable of variably displaying a plurality of types of symbols, and a gaming machine capable of executing a variable display game (variable display game) capable of stopping a symbol by a stop operation of a player. (For example, a pachi-slot machine or a ball-slot machine), and in particular, relates to a gaming machine that notifies the player of the stop timing of the symbol.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventional game machines (slot machines such as pachi-slot machines and ball-slot machines) have three reels of "left", "middle", and "right", and three reels corresponding to each reel. It has a stop button. Then, the player operates the reel stop button at a desired timing to stop the reel that has started the variable display and derive the result of the variable display game.

In the game on this gaming machine, the player pays attention to the rotation of the reel and operates the reel stop button in accordance with the passage timing of the symbol to be stopped, so-called "pressing", so that the game is advantageously advanced. Can be made. Therefore, the size and color of the design drawn on the reel have been devised so that the player can easily identify the design of the spinning reel. In addition, recently, the progress of games on pachi-slot machines has become complicated, and along with this, there are more and more occasions when it is necessary to push the eyes. Even if this pushing is necessary, it is not always necessary to aim for the same symbol every time, and it is necessary to change the target symbol depending on the situation.

[0004]

Even if the above-described device for expressing the symbols arranged on the reel is devised, if the number of symbols to be aimed at is increased, the distinguishability of the symbols is deteriorated. That is, if the distinguishability of a certain symbol is increased, the distinguishability of another symbol will be deteriorated. Moreover, if the distinguishability of a plurality of symbols is increased, the distinguishability of each symbol does not increase as expected. As described above, with the complexity of the game, there is a limit in the conventional device for expressing the symbols, and it is required to flexibly improve the distinguishability of the symbols to be aimed.

It is an object of the present invention to provide a gaming machine that can assist the player by informing the player of the operation timing for stopping at the symbol to be aimed at.

[0006]

According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a variable display device having a plurality of variable display portions whose display states can be changed, and display results of the plurality of variable display portions are derived and displayed. An operation for deriving and displaying the display result of the variable display section in a gaming machine in which a predetermined winning is generated when one game ends and the display result of the plurality of variable display sections becomes a predetermined display mode. Operation means to perform, setting means capable of setting a display mode desired to be derived and displayed as a display result on the variable display section, and operation of the operation means capable of deriving the display mode set by the setting means And a notification unit that notifies the timing.

A second aspect of the invention is characterized in that, in the first aspect of the invention, an evaluation means is provided for evaluating the operation result of the operation means with respect to the notification timing of the notification means.

In the second aspect of the invention, the player may be informed of the evaluation result, or the progress of the game may be changed according to the evaluation result.

A third invention is characterized in that, in the first and second inventions, the setting means can set an arbitrary display mode among display modes that can be derived to the variable display section.

In a fourth aspect based on the first and second aspects, the setting means can set a winning combination desired to be derived and displayed on the variable display section, and the notifying means sets the winning combination. It is characterized by notifying the operation timing at which the display mode to be formed can be derived.

In a fifth aspect based on the first and second aspects, the setting means can set that a predetermined winning combination is not desired to be derived and displayed among the display modes that can be derived to the variable display section. The notifying means notifies the operation timing of not deriving the display mode forming the winning combination.

According to a sixth invention, in the second to fifth inventions, the evaluation means can evaluate the operation result by the operation means for each of the variable display portions, and the notification means is the evaluation means. Is determined based on the evaluation result of the variable display unit previously evaluated in one game, whether or not to notify other variable display units that have not derived the display result in the game.

A seventh invention is characterized in that, in the second to sixth inventions, an informing control means is provided for controlling whether or not the informing means is operated depending on the establishment of a predetermined condition in the game.

In an eighth aspect based on the first to seventh aspects, the notification means can stop the display mode for notifying the player of the timing in the display mode related to the timing notification in the game ( For example, it is characterized in that the notification is made only when the drawing-in control is possible).

In a ninth aspect based on the first to seventh aspects, whether the display mode for informing the player of the timing can be stopped in the display mode related to the timing notification in the game. The feature is that the notification is given regardless of whether it is impossible to stop.

[0016]

According to the first aspect of the present invention, a variable display device having a plurality of variable display portions whose display states can be changed is provided, and the display results of the plurality of variable display portions are derived and displayed to form one game. When a display result of the plurality of variable display portions is in a predetermined display mode, a predetermined winning occurs in the gaming machine, an operation for performing an operation for deriving and displaying the display result of the variable display portion Means and a display mode desired to be derived and displayed as a display result on the variable display section,
Since the setting means that can be set by the operation of the player and the notification means that notifies the operation timing of the operation means that can derive the display mode set by the setting means are provided, the operation for stopping at the symbol to be aimed It is possible to assist the player with respect to the timing and contribute to the improvement of the skill of the player.

In the second invention, the evaluation means for evaluating the operation result of the operation means with respect to the notification timing by the notification means is provided, so that the result of the operation derived by the player is evaluated from the next time onward. This can be reflected in the game and can contribute to the improvement of the skill of the player.

In the third aspect of the invention, the setting means can set an arbitrary display mode out of the display modes that can be derived on the variable display section, so that the player can easily aim at the display mode desired to be derived. it can.

In the fourth invention, the setting means can set the winning combination to be derived and displayed on the variable display section, and the informing means can derive the display mode for forming the winning combination. Since the timing is notified, the symbol targeted by the player is fixed, but even if the position on the reel is unknown, the player can be notified of the operation timing.
Moreover, the setting of the notification timing can be simplified.

In the fifth invention, the setting means can set, out of the display modes that can be derived to the variable display section, that a predetermined winning combination is not desired to be derived and displayed, and the notification means is Since the operation timing for not deriving the display mode forming the winning combination is notified, even if the player has a game policy but does not specifically know the symbol to be aimed at, the operation timing can be notified. Moreover, the setting of the notification timing can be simplified.

In the sixth invention, the evaluation means can evaluate the operation result by the operation means for each of the variable display portions, and the notification means is the variable which the evaluation means previously evaluated in one game. Based on the evaluation result of the display unit, it is determined whether or not to notify other variable display units that do not derive the display result in the game. Therefore, redundant notification is not performed, and the player is not misunderstood. , The game can proceed smoothly.

In the seventh invention, since the notification control means for controlling whether or not to operate the notification means is provided by the establishment of a predetermined condition in the game, it is possible to provide an appropriate notification that is not too redundant. Can be smoothly progressed, and a decrease in operation of the gaming machine can be prevented.

In the eighth aspect of the invention, the notifying means notifies only when the display mode for notifying the player of the timing can be stopped in the display mode related to the timing notification in the game. Since the notification is not made until the time when the symbol cannot be derived, the game can be smoothly progressed, and the decrease in the operation of the gaming machine can be prevented.

In the ninth invention, the notifying means notifies the player of the timing regardless of whether the display mode for notifying the timing is stoppable or unstoppable in the display mode related to the timing notification in the game. Therefore, it is possible to contribute to the improvement of the skill of the player.

[0025]

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

FIG. 1 is a front view showing the configuration of a gaming machine (pachi-slot machine) according to an embodiment of the present invention.

The gaming machine 100 of the present embodiment has a hinge on the left side, and is provided with a front panel 2 which can be opened and closed in a single-opening type with the hinge as an axis. On the back part of the front panel 2, three reels (drums) 4a, 4b, 4c that constitute a variable display device (variable display device) are arranged side by side in a rotatable state. On the outer peripheral surface of each of the reels 4a to 4c, a symbol row composed of a plurality of types of symbols (symbols) is written (see FIG. 3). The reels 4a to 4c are driven by a reel drive unit and are rotated independently of each other. The reel drive unit is composed of, for example, a stepping motor (4Ma, 4Mb, 4Mc). Note that the reel is not rotated by the motor, and a variable display device in which a plurality of variable display areas are set by using a liquid crystal display or the like may be used.

In the gaming machine of the present embodiment, the variable display game is played by the rotation of the reels 4a to 4c, and the stop result of the variable display is a predetermined stop display mode (a predetermined symbol combination mode) on the activated line. In connection with the above, a predetermined game value is given to the player.

A display window portion 20 is provided substantially in the center of the upper half portion of the front panel 2 for allowing the player to visually recognize the symbols variably displayed (variable display) by the rotation of the reels 4a to 4c. In the state where the reels 4a to 4c are stopped, three symbols can be visually recognized from the display window portion 20 among the symbol arrays written on the outer peripheral surfaces of the reels 4a to 4c. That is, a total of nine symbols can be visually recognized in the display window 20 with the reels 4a to 4c stopped.

Above the display window section 20, there is provided an auxiliary display device 5 for executing an auxiliary game and for displaying effects and information in association with the variable display game. Further, the auxiliary display device 5 displays information required by the player in the setting for timing notification described later. The auxiliary display device 5 is controlled by the display control device 35 (see FIG. 2).
Change the display contents. Furthermore, the auxiliary display device 5
Is provided with a setting input device 71 (for example, a touch panel), and functions as a setting means for the player to input settings for timing notification.

On the left side of the display window section 20, there is provided a bet line display section 13 for displaying an activated bet line (effective line) corresponding to the bet number (bet number) of medals. The bet number of medals is the number of medals inserted by the player for the game, or the number of medals used for the game, which is subtracted from the memory number (credit number) of the medals previously inserted by the player. . In addition, an operation in which the player inserts a medal or subtracts it from the stored number to start the game is called a bet.

In the bet line display unit 13, for example, when the number of bets is one, only the "1" lamp in the center of the bet line display unit 13 is turned on and only the horizontal line in the middle row is an effective line. Is shown. When the number of bets is two, the lamp of "1" in the center of the bet line display portion 13 and the lamps of "2" provided above and below the bet light up, and the three horizontal lines in the upper, middle and lower rows are effective lines. Is shown. When the number of bets is 3, all the lamps “1”, “2”, and “3” of the bet line display unit 13 are turned on, and three horizontal lines and two diagonal lines that descend to the right and rise to the right. It indicates that a total of 5 lines are valid lines.

On the right side of the display window section 20, a game state display section 14 for displaying the game state is provided. The game status display unit 14 indicates that the game is playable, and displays “INSERT MEDALS”, which prompts the insertion of medals.
"R" indicating that the player has won the replay prize and that the game currently being played is a replay game after the replay prize has been won.
"EPLAY" display, "WAIT" display showing that there is a waiting time from when the player inserts a medal and operates the start lever until the reel starts rotating, and shows that the reel has stopped and the game has ended "GAME OVER
"R" display and the like.

Below the display window section 20, a payout number display section 8 for displaying the number of payouts when a player confirms a prize and wins a medal, in the AT state, in the big bonus (BB) state or in the regular state. A game progress display unit 11 that displays the number of remaining games in the bonus (RB) state, and a credit number display unit 12 that displays the number of medals credits are provided. These display units 8, 11, and 12 are configured by using a 7-segment LED, a liquid crystal display, or the like.

A light-transmitting front cover member 25 is mounted on the upper portion of the front panel 2.
On the back part of 5, there is a decorative display part 3 including a lamp and an LED.
A sound generation unit including a speaker 7 and a speaker is provided.

A medal insertion slot 25 for inserting medals is provided in the inclined base portion 22 located between the upper half portion and the lower half portion of the front panel 2, and the player inserts medals into this insertion opening. By doing so, you can play games. Further, the tilt table 22 is provided with operation switches for the card unit (a lending switch 30b, a card return switch 30c for instructing the return of the card). Further, on the upper part of the card unit operation switches 30b and 30c,
A card balance display unit 30d for displaying the card balance is provided. Further, the tilting table portion 22 is provided with a vibration generating portion 73 as a notifying means for notifying the player of the operation timing of the reel stop buttons 7a to 7c. Normal,
Since the player puts one hand on the inclined base portion 22 to play,
When the vibration generating unit 73 is provided on the inclined table unit 22, the vibration can be efficiently transmitted to the player.

Further, on the tilt table 22, a 1 bet button (1 bet switch) 10 for betting one medal credited by a pressing operation and a bet of the betable number is bet by one pressing operation. A max bet button (MAX bet switch) 9 is provided. If you operate this max bet button 9,
For example, three medals are bet when no medals are bet, and two more medals are bet when one medal is bet. With these bet buttons 9 and 10, it is possible to bet medals within the number of credits displayed on the credit number display section 12 without inserting medals from the medal insertion slot 15, and the effective line is determined according to the number of bets. Is set.

A rectangular decorative panel 19 is provided on the lower half of the front panel 2. Above the makeup panel 19, a credit selection button (credit selection switch) 18 that can be selectively switched between a credit state in which a medal can be stored as a credit and a non-credit state in which a medal cannot be stored, a reel 4a to. Start lever for starting rotation of 4c (start lever switch)
6 are provided.

Further, above the decorative panel 19, reel stop buttons (reel stop switches) 7a, 7b, 7c are provided as operation means for stopping the rotation of the reels 4a-4c and deriving the stop symbol. ing. When the reel stop buttons 7a to 7c are operated, the reels 4a to 4c corresponding to the respective switches stop rotating. The reel stop buttons 7a to 7c are provided with a notification lamp 72 for each reel stop button. The notification lamp 72 notifies the player of the operation timing of the reel stop button by causing the reel stop button to emit light, and functions as a notification unit.

Further, each reel stop button 7a to 7c may be provided with an operation information lamp for informing that the reel stop button is operable by causing the reel stop button to emit light. The reel stop buttons 7a to 7c are inoperable while the operation information lamps are not lit, and the reel stop buttons 7a to 7c are operable while the operation information lamps are lit.
Therefore, while the operation information lamp is not lit, the reels 4a to 4c do not stop rotating even if the reel stop buttons 7a to 7c are operated. In addition, it may be possible to notify whether the reel stop buttons 7a to 7c are operable by the lighting color of the operation information lamp. It should be noted that the emission color of the reel stop button may notify whether the reel stop buttons 7a to 7c are operable and the operation timing of the reel stop buttons 7a to 7c.

On the left and right sides of the decorative panel 19,
Light-transmitting front cover members 24, 24 are mounted. A lamp or L is provided on the back of the front cover member 24.
A decoration display section 37 including an ED and the like is provided.

On the left side of the decorative panel 19, a card insertion portion 30a of the card unit 30 is provided.
A card reader / writer and a ball lending control device for reading and writing data of an inserted card (such as a prepaid card) are built in the card insertion portion 30a.

Further, below the decorative panel 19, there are provided a tray 23 and an ashtray 21 capable of storing the medals paid out from the medal payout section 3 at the back of the front panel 2.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a part of a control system of the game machine (pachi-slot machine) according to the embodiment of the present invention.

The control system of the gaming machine has a gaming control device 50 arranged inside the gaming machine as a main constituent element.
The game control device 50 is a control device that performs overall control of the game (control processing of game progress and control of each controlled device), and
A PU 51, a ROM 52, a RAM 53, and an I / F (interface) 54 are provided. The CPU and the like realize the setting means and the stop control means, and the game control device functions as these means.

The CPU 51 is provided with a control section and a calculation section, performs various kinds of calculation control, and permits the reels 4a to 4c to be stopped so that a predetermined special symbol combination mode is formed in the main game. An internal lottery is performed by generating a random number for internal lottery that determines whether or not to do it. The winning probability of each prize in the internal lottery is changed depending on the number of bets on the game medium, and the higher the number of bets, the higher the winning probability. Instead of generating the internal lottery random number by the software processing of the CPU 51, a random number generator that generates a random number is provided in the game control device 50, and the random number output from the random number generator is used as the internal lottery random number. You may make it perform an internal lottery.

Result of this internal lottery (establishment of winning flag /
“Not established” is transmitted to the display control device 35 via the effect control device 60 as the sub control means, and the auxiliary game of the auxiliary display device 5 is controlled based on the lottery result. The probability of executing the auxiliary game may be set to increase as the number of bets on the game medium increases, so that the auxiliary game can be executed at an appropriate frequency according to the result of the internal lottery. The lottery for determining whether or not to execute the auxiliary game can be performed by the CPU 51, but may be performed by the effect control device 60 as the sub control means.

The ROM 52 stores programs for executing control processing and control data (for example, determination values for internal lottery). The RAM 53 stores a random number storage area for internal lottery generated by the CPU 51 and other various data (for example, the number of medals credits, the number of medals bets,
Storage area and CP for temporarily storing (establishment flag, etc.)
It has a work area of U51.

Input / output interface (I / F) 54
Is a medal detection sensor 15a, start lever switch 6, reel stop buttons 7a to 7c, reel position detection sensors 31a, 31b, 31c, bet switch 9, 1 via a low-pass filter or a buffer gate (not shown).
0, credit selection switch 18, payout medal detection sensor 3a, probability setting device 32, reset switch 33
And a signal input from the front frame opening detection switch 34 is output to the CPU 51.

The medal detection sensor 15a is a sensor for detecting medals inserted through the medal insertion slot 15. The start lever switch 6 is a switch that detects that the start lever has been operated. The reel stop switches 7a to 7c are switches provided on the reel stop buttons and detecting that each reel stop button is operated. When the operation of the reel stop button is detected by the reel stop switches 7a to 7c, the rotation of the corresponding reels 4a to 4c is stopped. Reel position detection sensor 3
Reference numerals 1a to 31c are sensors that are provided respectively for the reels 4a to 4c and detect stop positions of the reels 4a to 4c.

The 1 bet switch 10 is a switch for detecting that the 1 bet button has been pressed. The max bet switch 9S is a switch that detects that the max bet button has been pressed. The credit selection switch 18S is a switch that detects that the credit selection button 18 has been pressed. The payout medal detection sensor 3a is a sensor that detects the number of medals paid out from the medal payout machine 3. The reset switch 33 is a switch that resets the gaming state of the gaming machine. The front frame opening detection switch 34 is a switch that detects that the front panel 2 is opened.

The probability setting device 32 is a device for switching the settings of the gaming machine. For this setting, there are prepared 1 to 6 settings with different probabilities of establishment of the winning flag, and the probability of establishment of the winning flag of setting 1 is the highest. It can be switched so that the probability of establishment of the winning flag becomes higher as the setting value becomes lower.

Input / output interface (I / F)
Reference numeral 54 denotes a control signal output from the CPU 51 via an output port or a driver (not shown), a production control device (sub-control means) 60, a game progress display unit 11, a bet line display unit 13, a credit amount display unit 12, The payout amount display unit 8, the game state display unit 14, the decoration display unit 37, the medal payout unit 3, the reel motor 4M (4Ma to 4Mc), the external signal output unit 38, the reel operation information lamp, etc. are output.

Performance control device 60 as a sub-control device
Is provided with a control CPU, a RAM, a ROM, and the like, and performs overall control of information display and sound output related to the effect of the auxiliary game. For example, the inserted medal detection sensor 1
5, when the bet input is detected by the detection signal from any one of the bet switch 10, the max bet switch 9, and the bet input information transmitted from the game control device 50, the auxiliary display is performed. Control processing relating to the auxiliary game displayed by the device 5 and control processing relating to the sound corresponding to the auxiliary game output by the sound output unit 26 are performed, and a display control signal is sent to the display control device 35 in accordance with the control processing. Then, the sound control signal is transmitted to the sound control device 36.

Further, the effect control device 60 is connected to a setting input device 71 as a setting device, a notification lamp 72 as a notification device, and a vibration generator 73. Operation contents of the setting input device 71 are input to the performance control device 60,
From the effect control device 60, the notification lamp 72 and the vibration generator 7 are provided.
A signal for operating 3 is output. Then, the auxiliary control device 60 functions as a notification control unit that controls whether or not to operate the notification lamp 72.

The setting input device 71 is an input device installed in the auxiliary display device 5 and is constituted by, for example, a touch panel. The player uses the notification lamp 72 or the vibration generator 73 to notify the reel stop button 7a ...
Input information about the operation timing of 7c. That is, the player operates the setting input device 71 based on the information displayed on the auxiliary display device 5 to set which symbol (or which combination mode) the operation timing is notified.

The notification lamp 72 has a reel stop button 7a.
It is provided for every ~ 7c, and informs the player of the operation timing of the reel stop button by causing the reel stop button to emit light. The vibration generating unit 73 is provided on the inclined base 22 that is often placed by a player, and the notification lamp 72 is provided.
Similarly, the player is informed of the operation timing of the reel stop buttons 7a to 7c.

As described above, the setting input device 71 provided in the auxiliary display device 5 has been described as the setting means. However, a setting key (for example, a cross cursor key) is provided, and a lamp display section (for example, LED) or an information display device is provided. The notification timing may be set based on the information displayed on the liquid crystal display device such as No. 5 or the like. Further, a setting button may be provided, and the stop symbol of the reel 4 (stop mode being displayed on the variable display portion) may be set by the setting button.

Although the notification lamp 72 and the vibration generator 73 have been described as the notification means, the notification may be performed on the variable display section (for example, the variable display section is turned on or the lighting mode is changed). In addition, the auxiliary display device 5
You may comprise so that it may notify by (liquid crystal display device).
Further, the sound output unit 26 may be configured to notify by an acoustic signal (for example, voice).

In addition, the effect control device 60, the effect display of the auxiliary display device 5 and the sound output unit 26 if the game is not executed for a certain time during the specific game state in which the specific prize is won and the flashy effect is performed. It also controls to reduce or stop the output from.

The display control device 35 is composed of a CPU for display control, a RAM, a ROM for storing information display data, and the like. Based on the control signal transmitted from the effect control device 60, an effect forming an auxiliary game described later is formed. Information (effect pattern) is transmitted to the auxiliary display device 5 and displayed.

The sound control device 26 is composed of a CPU and RAM for sound control, a ROM for storing sound effect data, an amplifier, etc., and from the sound output section 26 based on the sound control signal transmitted from the effect control device 60. A sound effect corresponding to the game state or a predetermined effect sound corresponding to the auxiliary game is output.

Also, the game control device 50 and the effect control device 6
The communication with 0 is such that the control signal is transmitted from the game control device 50 to the effect control device 60 only in one direction, and an illegal signal is input to the game control device 50. To prevent.

From the external signal output section 38, various kinds of information regarding the operating status (signals regarding insertion and withdrawal of medals,
It is possible to output a signal indicating the BB state or the RB state, etc.) to the outside (a management device of a game store, etc.). Also, test data (inspection data) including information related to establishment of each winning flag can be output to the outside.

The power supply device (not shown) of the gaming machine has a backup power supply unit and a power failure monitoring circuit in addition to the power supply circuit. When the power outage monitoring circuit detects a predetermined voltage drop of the power supply device, the power outage detection signal and the reset signal are sequentially output to the game control device 50, the effect control device 60 and the like. The game control device 50 performs a predetermined power outage process when receiving the power outage detection signal, and stops the operation of the CPU when receiving the reset signal. The backup power supply unit is the game control device 50.
A backup power supply is supplied to the RAM 53 or the like, and the stored contents regarding game data (game information, game control information: including variable display game information) and the like are retained.

FIG. 3 is an array diagram of symbols written on the reels 4 provided in the gaming machine (pachi-slot machine) according to the embodiment of the present invention.

As shown in FIG. 3, in this embodiment, "black 7" located at array numbers 0 and 6 of the left reel 4a, "white 7" located at array numbers 1 and 10 of the left reel 4a, left. "Crowns" located on the reels 4a, SEQ ID Nos. 2, 8, 11, 13, 18; left reel 4a, SEQ IDs 3, 7, 12, 1
"Plum with a sword" (hereinafter, simply referred to as "plum") located at 5, 19; "Character imitating human face" (hereinafter, referred to as "BAR") located at the array number 4 on the left reel 4a; Sequence number 5, 14, 16, 1 on reel 4a
"Watermelon" located at 7, sequence number 9 on left reel 4a,
Seven kinds of symbols of "cherry" located at 20 are arranged on the reel according to a predetermined rule. Then, when the reels 4a to 4c are stopped, if the stopped symbols on the activated line form any of the established symbol rows shown in FIG. 4, the corresponding winning is won.

FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram of the winning types of the gaming machine (pachi-slot machine) according to the embodiment of the present invention, the symbol combination mode corresponding to each winning and the winning contents.

In the gaming machine of the present embodiment, in the normal gaming state, "big bonus (BB) prize", "regular bonus (RB) prize", "replay prize", "small win prize (cherry, watermelon, crown) ) ”Or“ Loss ”is won by an internal lottery.

The BB winning is determined when "black 7, black 7, black 7", "white 7, white 7, white 7", "BAR, BAR, BAR" are stopped and displayed on the activated line. When winning, 15 medals are paid out and a BB state occurs.

The RB prize is "black 7, black 7, BAR",
In the winning that is determined when "white 7, white 7, BAR" is stopped and displayed on the activated line, 15 medals are paid out and the RB state occurs.

The replay winning is a winning determined when "PLUM, PLUM, PLUM" is stopped and displayed on the activated line, and the replay game is played after the reels are stopped. In this replay game, the number of medals bet this time is carried over to the next game, so that the game can be started without newly betting medals.

Winners of the small roles are "watermelon, watermelon, watermelon", "crown, crown, crown", "cherry, ANY, A".
NY ”(“ ANY ”part can be any pattern)
When any of the above is stopped and displayed on the activated line, the number of medals corresponding to the type of small winning combination is paid out in the winning. For example, 10 for "watermelon, watermelon, watermelon", 8 for "crown, crown, crown"
In case of "cherry, ANY, ANY", two medals will be paid out.

The JAC in prize is a prize determined when "Plum, Plum, Plum" is stopped and displayed on the activated line in the small winning combination game of BB, and two medals are paid out and A JAC game is started in which betting only one medal is stopped and controlled so that "plum, plum, plum" is stopped and displayed on the activated line (for example, the middle line) with a high probability. If you win the JAC in the BB small win game,
The JAC game continues until the two JAC games are over or eight JAC prizes are won.

The JAC winning is a case where "PLUM, PLUM, PLUM" is stopped and displayed on the active line (for example, the middle line) in the JAC game started by the JAC IN winning when one bet is placed on one medal. 15 medals will be paid out in the prize that is confirmed. However, J
During the AC game, even if "PLUM, PLUM, PLUM" is stopped and displayed on the activated line, the replay prize is not awarded and the replay game is not played.

In the gaming machine of this embodiment, reel stop control is performed by the game controller 50, and the reel 4 is stopped at a position advanced by up to four frames from the timing when the player operated the reel stop buttons 7a to 7c. Can be made. For this reason, if there is a symbol corresponding to the winning on which the symbol is established in the symbols on the activated line and the four subsequent frames at the timing when the player operates the reel stop buttons 7a to 7c, the symbol is compulsory. Is drawn on the active line and is displayed as a stop. That is, the symbols that are always present in the five consecutive frames can be stopped and displayed on the activated line by the stop control (pull-in control) by the game control device 50. Therefore, even if the stop operation is performed at any timing when the flag is established, it is possible to win a prize formed with such a symbol. However, this is not the case when a prize formed by a symbol whose flag is not established on another activated line occurs.

For example, in the symbol arrangement diagram shown in FIG. 3, since the "crown" is always present in five consecutive frames, the "winning crown" small win can be always won when the small win prize flag is established. . In addition, since the “plum” is always present in five consecutive frames, the replay prize can be always won when the replay flag is established. However, if the player makes an irregular push (for example, middle → right → left) and the reel stop control does not function normally, the player may not be able to win the prize.

On the other hand, in the prizes other than the small role prize of the "crown" and the replay prize, the stop button 7a is aimed at a specific symbol.
Unless 7c is operated (pushing operation), even if the stop control is performed by the game control device 50, it cannot always be acquired. For example, a case where the flag of BB winning is realized and "white 7" is stopped and displayed on the activated line will be described. First, on the first reel (left reel) 4a, a symbol surrounded by a dotted line L1 (“white 7” corresponding to the array number 1),
Stop any of the "crown" corresponding to SEQ ID NO: 2, the "plum" corresponding to SEQ ID NO: 3, the "BAR" corresponding to SEQ ID NO: 4, the "watermelon" corresponding to SEQ ID NO: 5) on the active line. If the reel stop button 7a is operated at the timing, "white 7" corresponding to the array element number 1 is stopped on the activated line. Alternatively, a design surrounded by a dotted line L2 (“white 7” corresponding to SEQ ID NO: 10, “crown” corresponding to SEQ ID NO: 11, “plum” corresponding to SEQ ID NO: 12, SEQ ID NO: 1)
If the reel stop button 7a is operated at the timing to stop either the "crown" corresponding to 3 or the "watermelon" corresponding to the array number 14) on the activated line, the "white 7" corresponding to the array number 10 is valid. Stop on the line. However, even if the reel stop button 7a is operated with a symbol other than those described above, the symbol "white 7" cannot be stopped and displayed on the activated line.

Similarly, if the reel stop button 7b is operated on the second reel (middle reel) 4a at a timing to stop any of the symbols surrounded by the dotted line C on the activated line, "white" corresponding to the array number 15 is displayed. 7 "is stopped on the activated line, and if the reel stop button 7c is operated at the timing of stopping any of the symbols surrounded by the dotted line R on the third reel (right reel) 4a on the activated line, the array number 5 is obtained. The corresponding "white 7" stops on the activated line. By performing such a pressing operation, "white 7" is displayed on the activated line 3
One can be stopped and displayed, and a BB prize can be won.

FIG. 5 is a state transition diagram of the gaming state in the gaming machine (pachi-slot machine) of this embodiment.

The game state is roughly divided into a normal state, a BB state and an RB state. In the normal state, a player inserts a predetermined number (usually 1 to 3) of a game medium (a medal in the present embodiment, but a game ball may be used) or a bet button operation from credits. After inputting the bet number based on (bet operation), the reel is rotated by operating the start lever 6 to start the variable display game, and an internal lottery is performed for each game.

There is a case where the player operates the start lever 6 and the reel does not start rotating immediately, and this time is called "wait time". This "wait time"
Is provided in order to limit the number of executable games within a predetermined time so that the player does not excessively consume the game value as a result of continuous games being played.

This game machine is provided with a function (internal lottery function) for performing a lottery in advance as to whether or not to win various prizes in connection with the execution of the game. By operating the start lever 6, Internal lottery is performed based on the random number for internal lottery. When the internal lottery is won, a winning flag is set and a predetermined winning combination (winning mode) is permitted. That is, only when the internal lottery is won and the winning flag is set, the predetermined symbols are allowed to stop on the activated line to form the winning pattern, and the reel control is performed so that the winning prize can be obtained as much as possible. Be seen. In this way, the internal lottery determines any of the BB prize, the RB prize, the small win prize, the replay prize, the JAC prize, and the loss.

In other words, in the variable display game, the target symbol is not surely stopped by the stop operation of the player, but only the combination of symbols permitted by the control processing of the control means of the game machine is operated by the player. The game control means 50 is configured to be stopped, and extracts a random number at a timing triggered by, for example, a start lever operation, and based on the result of the determination of the random number, generates a winning combination (winning flag). A process of determining whether to permit or not is performed, and only a combination of symbols based on such a determination can be stopped by the player's operation.

The BB winning is a winning that causes a big bonus (BB) state in which a small winning game with a high probability of easily winning a small winning prize and a JAC game with a high probability of easily winning a JAC winning can be played a predetermined number of times. It is a mode. The RB winning is a winning mode in which a regular bonus (RB) state in which a JAC game in which a JAC winning is easily obtained with a high probability can be played a predetermined number of times is generated. The small role winning is a winning mode in which a relatively small amount (for example, 10 or less) of medals are paid out. The replay winning is a winning mode in which the game can be played again without betting medals. J
The AC winning is a winning mode in which a relatively large number (for example, 15) of medals are paid out by only betting one medal. In particular, the BB prize and the RB prize are referred to as a specific prize for deriving a special game state (BB state, RB state) advantageous to the player. In this special game state, it can be expected that a large amount (for example, 100 or more) of game media will be obtained as compared with the small winning combination.

Then, reel rotation (variable display of symbols)
The player sequentially stops the rotation of each reel by operating the reel stop buttons 7a to 7c provided corresponding to each reel or automatically after a certain time, and the stop display mode is determined. . Then, when the reels stop, if the combination mode of the symbols formed on the activated line activated according to the bet number becomes a predetermined combination mode (win mode), a prize is won. Is determined, and a profit (game medium) corresponding to the prize type is given to the player.

Specifically, when the BB winning flag is established as a result of the internal lottery in the normal state, the stop display mode becomes a predetermined symbol combination mode (for example, "white 7, white 7, white 7"). As a result, the game state becomes the BB state, and the big bonus game (small winning game + JAC game) is started. After the ending condition of the big bonus game is satisfied in the BB state, the state is shifted to the normal state and the normal game is restarted.

In addition, as a result of the internal lottery in the normal state, RB
When the prize flag is established, the stop display mode becomes a predetermined symbol combination mode (for example, "white 7, white 7, BAR"), so that the gaming state becomes the RB state and the regular bonus game (JAC game) is started. . After the JAC game is finished a predetermined number of times in the RB state, the normal state is entered and the normal game is restarted.

When a specific prize such as an RB prize or a BB prize is won by an internal lottery, even if the prize mode is not formed in the game, as a result of the execution of the variable display game, a loss or a small winning symbol is stopped. Then, a predetermined combination mode (reach pattern) that does not normally appear is formed. With the appearance of this reach-eye stop mode, the player is informed that a flag for a specific prize such as a big bonus has been established (a specific prize has been won), and the player is notified of a big bonus etc. in the variable display game thereafter. Try to align the designs seriously.

Further, when the winning flag of the small winning combination is established, a specific stop order is selected by using a random number, and only when the player performs a reel stop operation in this specific stop order, this When the symbol corresponding to the small winning combination is stopped and the player performs a stop operation in a sequence other than the specific stopping order, the small winning combination is not established, and the winning flag of this small winning combination disappears.

On the other hand, when the internal lottery is not won (the winning flag is not established), even if the player performs the reel stop operation at any timing, the predetermined symbol is stopped on the activated line to form the winning mode. Reel control is performed so as not to do so. Therefore, if the flag such as the big bonus is not established, even if the player tries to stop by aiming at the symbol such as the big bonus, the player does not stop at the symbol such as the big bonus.

That is, it is not always possible to form a winning mode if the reel stopping operation is in time, but only when the reel stopping operation is timed after winning the internal lottery. Are formed. By performing reel stop control based on the internal lottery result in this way, it becomes possible to some extent control the game result according to the internal lottery result.

Further, the gaming machine of the present embodiment may be configured to have a gaming state (AT state) in which the player is assisted. In this AT state, the player is notified of the fact that the winning flag of the small winning combination has been established and the type of the small winning combination for which the winning flag has been established, so that the player will not drop the small winning combination. In addition, in the AT state, the player may be notified of a specific stop order for deriving the small winning combination.

There has also been proposed a gaming machine in which an auxiliary display device 5 separately provided in addition to the three reels constituting the main game produces an auxiliary game related to the main game. For example, the auxiliary display device 5 plays an auxiliary game with various effect displays. In addition to the three reels that form the main game, a fourth reel in which a symbol indicating a winning type is arranged is provided and an auxiliary game in which the fourth reel is variably displayed is also proposed. There is. By these auxiliary games, it is possible to play a highly entertaining effect game that cannot be expressed by the main game played on the reels. Even if a specific winning mode (a symbol combination mode that is a specific winning) cannot be formed when the reels are stopped and displayed, by deriving a specific result in the auxiliary game that is being performed at the same time, It is possible to inform the player that the flag has been established. Further, even if the player does not know the reach eye formed as the reel stop display mode, the player can recognize the establishment of the specific winning flag from the result of the auxiliary game, so that the player is uncomfortable with the game. Less sense of fairness.

Further, in order to perform a more entertaining effect in the auxiliary game, a plurality of intermediate modes are prepared to gradually develop the effect mode, and finally, an effect mode corresponding to the result of the internal lottery is set. It may be derived.

FIG. 6 is a state transition diagram of the big bonus game.

When a predetermined symbol combination mode (for example, "white 7, white 7, white 7") is stopped on the activated line and a BB prize is generated, a small winning combination can be obtained with a higher probability than in the normal game. Enter the game state. The game in this small winning combination game state proceeds in the same manner as in the normal state. For example, when three medals are inserted and the symbol row of “watermelon, watermelon, watermelon” is stopped and displayed on the activated line, 10 medals are displayed.
8 pieces of medals will be paid out when the row of symbols "Crown, Crown, Crown" is stopped and displayed on the activated line, and "Cherry, ANY, ANY" will be displayed on the activated line.
When the symbol row ("ANY" portion may be any symbol) is stopped and displayed, two medals are paid out.

Then, in the small win game state, for example, when the symbol sequence of "plum, plum, plum" is stopped and displayed on the activated line, JAC becomes, and two medals are paid out, and the small win game is executed. The game is in a JAC game state where it is temporarily suspended and a high probability of winning the JAC prize can be obtained. It should be noted that when a specific symbol is stopped and displayed on the activated line during the small winning game, the JAC is not started and the JAC game is not immediately switched to, but the auxiliary display device 5 provided separately from the reel device 4 is used. You may make it play a game about in and generate a JAC game based on the game result.

In the JAC game state, the number of medals bet is 1.
If the symbol sequence of "plum, plum, plum" is stopped and displayed on the effective line (for example, the middle horizontal line) corresponding to this 1 bet, the JAC prize is awarded and the medal is 1
Five will be paid out. This JAC game can be executed up to 12 times, and when the 12th JAC game ends, the small win game restarts. However, JAC game is 1
If the JAC prize is won eight times before reaching the second time, the JAC game is ended with the eighth JAC prize, and the small role game is restarted.

In addition, the small win game in BB can be executed up to 30 times (including the JAC-in game, not including the JAC game after JAC-in), and the small win game is consumed 30 times. The BB game is over when the game is played. However, if JAC in is done 3 times before the small role game is consumed 30 times, J by the third JAC in
The BB game ends when the AC game ends.
Therefore, the player does not stop and display the symbol sequence of "plum, plum, plum" on the activated line until the small win game is exhausted a predetermined number of times (the third JAC game is not played. ), So-called "replay removal"
I do.

By the way, in the RB winning, a predetermined symbol combination mode (for example, "white 7, white 7, BAR") is stopped on the activated line, and at the same time RB occurs, it becomes JAC in,
With this JAC in, 15 medals are paid out, and a JAC game in which a JAC prize can be won with high probability is started. Then, if the 12th JAC game is completed or the JAC prize is won 8 times before the JAC game reaches 12 times, the RB is completed and the normal state is entered.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart of the game control processing in the normal state of the gaming machine (pachi-slot machine) according to the embodiment of the present invention.

In this game control process, it is first determined whether the game start condition is satisfied (S101 to S10).
2).

Specifically, first, it is determined whether or not the medal is bet (S101). In this determination process, when the right of the replay game is generated as a result of the previous game (when the medals bet in the previous game are carried over), at least one medal is inserted from the medal insertion slot 15. Or R
When at least one or more medals are stored as credits in the AM 53 and one of the cases where the 1 bet button 10 or the max bet button 9 is operated, it is determined that the medals are bet. To do.

For example, when a medal is inserted from the medal insertion slot 15, the inserted medal is detected by the medal detecting sensor 15.
It is detected by a, and the detection signal is input to the game control device 50. Then, based on the detection signal, the bet number of medals is stored, and an active line corresponding to the bet number is displayed by the bet line display unit 13. However, the bet number has a predetermined upper limit value (for example, 3 coins) set, and for example, in the state where the “non-credit state” is selected by the credit selection button 18, the medals exceeding the bet number upper limit value are set. When the coins are inserted from the medal insertion slot 15, the medals in excess of the coins are returned to the saucer 23 without being added to the bet number. On the other hand, in the state where the “credit state” is selected by the credit selection button 18, the medals that exceed the upper limit of the number of bets are in the medal insertion slot 1
When the number of inserted medals is 5, the exceeded medals are added to the credit amount, and the addition result is displayed as the credit amount on the credit amount display unit 12.

If it is determined in step S101 that the medals have been bet, the process proceeds to the start switch monitoring process (S102). On the other hand, when it is determined that the medal is not bet, this process is repeated and waits until the medal is bet.

Next, it is determined whether or not the start lever 6 has been operated based on the signal from the start lever switch 6a (S102). If it is determined that the start lever 6 has been operated, the process proceeds to the process of extracting a random number for internal lottery (S103). On the other hand, when the operation of the start lever 6 is not detected, this process is repeated until the start lever 6 is operated, and the process stands by.

Then, a random number for internal lottery is extracted based on the operation of the start lever 6 (S103). In addition to the operation of the start lever 6, the bet time and the reel 4
A random number for internal lottery may be extracted at the timing of starting rotation of a to 4c.

Further, in step S103, it is determined whether or not a fixed time (for example, 4.1 seconds) has elapsed from the start of rotation of each reel 4a to 4c in the previous game, and it is determined that the fixed time has elapsed. If it does, the process proceeds to the process after the lottery process (S104), and if it is determined that the fixed time has not elapsed, after waiting time until the start of the game (that is, each reel 4a to 4c in the previous game).
After a certain period of time has passed from the start of the rotation of the)
04) Go to the subsequent processing. While the waiting time until the start of the game is being exhausted, the "WAIT" display of the game state display portion 14 is turned on. In the waiting process for exhausting the waiting time, the reel is stopped (S102) from the operation of the start switch (S102).
It may be performed at any timing up to 106).

Then, the extracted random number and the ROM 52 are stored in advance.
The internal lottery is performed by comparing with the determination value stored in (S104). It should be noted that this determination value changes depending on the number of bets and the setting value of the gaming table. Based on this internal lottery result, it is determined whether or not various prizes (for example, small winning combination, BB, RB, replay, etc.) have been won, and in the case of winning, a prize flag corresponding to the won prize is set.

Then, the reel driving motors 4Ma, 4M
b, a reel rotation start process for sending a control signal to 4Mc to start the rotation of each reel 4a to 4c is performed (S10).
6). Specifically, the game control device 50, based on the input of the detection signal from the start lever switch 6a, the reel 4 with respect to the reel drive motors 4Ma, 4Mb, 4Mc.
A control signal for instructing the rotation start of the a to 4c is transmitted to start the rotation of the reels 4a to 4c all at once. And
When a predetermined time has elapsed after the start lever 6 was operated, the reel stop buttons 7a to 7c are controlled to be operable.

Then, the player operates the reel stop buttons 7a ...
When 7c is operated, reel stop processing for stopping the reels 4a to 4c is performed (S106). In this reel stop processing, the stop positions of the reels 4a to 4c are determined based on the timing when the player operates the reel stop buttons 7a to 7c and the established state of each winning flag, and the reel drive is performed based on this determination. The control signal is output to the motors 4Ma, 4Mb, 4Mc. For example, when one of the winning flags is established, the reel pull-in control is performed so that the symbol corresponding to the winning symbol is stopped and displayed on the activated line. That is, when the player operates the reel stop buttons 7a to 7c, the symbols that should originally be stopped and displayed on the activated line, or the symbols for several frames (for example, four frames) subsequent to the symbols have been established. When the symbol corresponding to is included, the stop control of each reel 4a to 4c is performed so that the symbol corresponding to the winning is preferentially stopped and displayed on the activated line.

However, if the player does not stop the reel stop buttons 7a to 7c after a certain time (for example, 30 seconds or more) has elapsed since the start lever 6 was operated, the game control device. 50 is a reel driving motor 4M in accordance with the reel stop position determined based on the state of each reel before the game starts and the winning flag established.
A control signal is output to a, 4Mb, and 4Mc to automatically stop the rotation of each reel 4a to 4c. Then, the reel position detection sensors 31a to 31c detect the stop position of each reel.

Then, a command output process for outputting information on the reel stop position is performed (S107). The information output regarding the reel stop position is used for reel stop position evaluation. Command output process (S1
In 07), each time the reel is stopped, information about the stop position (stop symbol) of the reel is output to the effect control device 60.
That is, when the reel first stops, information about the first stop position is output. Next, when the reel stops, information about the second stop position is output. When the reel finally stops, information on the third stop position is output.

Subsequently, a winning determination process is performed based on the reel stop display mode (S108). In this winning determination process, based on the detection result of the stop position of each reel detected by the reel position detection sensors 31a to 31c, a stop display corresponding to any prize (for example, a small winning combination, BB, RB, replay, etc.) It is determined whether or not a prize is won based on whether or not the mode is formed on the activated line.

If it is determined in this winning process that a winning has been won, a payout process for a predetermined number of medals is performed (S109). In this payout process, the winning determination process (S
When it is determined in 108) that a prize other than the replay game has been determined, a control signal is sent to the medal payout unit 3 to pay out a number of medals according to the determined prize mode, or according to the prize mode. A process of adding the number of medals to the memory of the number of credits is performed. Then, processing such as clearing the winning flag of the small win or the replay game is performed. Further, in this payout process, when the occurrence of the replay game is determined in the winning determination process (S108), the bet number stored in the current game is carried over to the next game,
When the occurrence of the replay game is not decided, a process of clearing the memory of the bet number is performed. When this payout processing ends, a series of game control processing ends and one game ends.

FIG. 8 is a state transition diagram for setting the stop timing notification, notifying the stop timing, and evaluating the stop timing of the gaming machine (pachi-slot machine) according to the embodiment of the present invention.

When the setting (setting state) of the reel stop operation timing by the player using the setting input device 71 is completed, the notification state is entered. When the variable display game is played in the notification state, the notification lamp 72 or the vibration generation unit 73 notifies the timing of the reel stop operation under the set conditions.

Then, when the reels stop, the evaluation state is set, and the degree of coincidence (or the degree of deviation) between the timing of the stop operation and the notified timing is evaluated, and the evaluation result is displayed by means of display or voice. Let us know. The evaluation result may be displayed every time the reels are stopped, or the evaluation result may be displayed after every reel is stopped.

The setting state is started when the player operates the setting input device 71 to set the stop timing notification while the game is not being played (for example, the evaluation state). Further, the operation for informing the stop timing may be configured to be settable only when a predetermined condition such as the number of remaining credits or a card insertion state is satisfied.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart of a stop timing notification process of the gaming machine (pachi-slot machine) according to the embodiment of the present invention.

First, when the start lever 6 is operated, the reels 4a to 4c start rotating, and the stop timing of the left reel 4a as the reel to be stopped first is notified (S111). The notification of the stop timing is performed when the reel position detection sensors 31a to 31c detect the position of the rotating reel and the position is coincident with the position set as the notification timing. Be seen.

This stop timing is informed by the reel position detection sensors 31a to 31c at the reel rotation start position (reel stop position in the previous game) and the reel position detection sensors 31a to 31c at the reel rotation speed (rotation speed, Using the time required for one rotation), the time when the symbol to be notified appears in the display window 20 is calculated, and the notification is performed at that timing. It should be noted that, by using the start timing information regarding the time when the reel starts to rotate and the rotation speed (rotation speed) of the reel, the time at which the symbol to be notified appears in the display window section 20 from the position on the reel of the symbol to be notified. May be calculated, and the notification may be performed at that timing.

When the player operates the reel stop button 7a, the left reel 4a is stopped, and it is determined whether or not the player's aim is successful. That is, the time difference between the timing at which the player operates the reel stop button 7a and the timing at which the player has been notified is calculated, and it is evaluated whether or not they match (S112). Furthermore, if the player does not stop with the pattern intended by the player, the cause is analyzed and the analysis result of the cause is notified. That is, whether or not the reason why the player did not stop with the design intended by the player is due to the failure of the operation timing of the player is notified. Further, it notifies how much the operation timing has been deviated. By notifying the player of this evaluation result, the player can refer to it when improving the skill. In addition, although the operation timing of the player was in time, if it was out of control (so-called "slip"), the target winning flag was not established, or another winning flag was established. Notify the cause of the slip.

Further, even when the player stops at the symbol intended by the player, it is informed whether the operation timing coincides or whether the symbol is pulled in by the symbol pull-in control and stopped. Then, when the symbol is stopped by the pull-in control, how much (how many frames) the notification timing and the operation timing (the symbol relating to the notification and the stop symbol) are different is notified.

If the evaluation result of the reel to be stopped first is good, the stop timing of the middle reel 4b as the reel to be stopped next is notified based on the reel rotation detection result (S113). On the other hand, if the evaluation result of the reel to be stopped first is not good ("N" in S112,
G ″), the notification processing ends without notifying the stop timing of the reels (the middle reel 4b and the right reel 4c) which will be stopped thereafter.

When the player operates the reel stop button 7b, the middle reel 4b is stopped. Then, it is determined whether or not the player's aim is successful, as in the case of the left reel, the cause is analyzed, and the evaluation result (timing shift and its cause) is notified to the player (S114).

If the evaluation result of the second stop reel is good, the stop timing of the right reel 4c as the next stop reel is notified based on the reel rotation detection result (S115). . On the other hand, if the evaluation result of the second stop reel is not good (S114
"NG"), and the reel that stops after that (right reel 4c)
The notification process ends without being notified of the stop timing.

When the player operates the reel stop button 7c, the right reel 4c is stopped. Then, it is determined whether or not the player's aim is successful, as in the case of the left reel, the cause is analyzed, and the evaluation result (timing deviation and its cause) is displayed on the auxiliary display device 5. Notify the player (S116).

The notification process shown in this figure notifies the stop order of the reels in the order of left, middle, and right, but it may be notified in the order set by the player, or each reel or reel stop. If the notification means is provided for each switch (operation means) and the stop timing is notified, the player can arbitrarily select the stop order of the reels without particularly specifying.

As described above, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 9, the plurality of reels 4a to 4a whose display states can be changed by rotation.
A variable display device having a variable display section configured by c is provided, and one game is completed by displaying and displaying a stop symbol as a display result of all of the plurality of reels 4a to 4c. In a gaming machine in which a predetermined prize is generated when a symbol is in a predetermined display mode, reel stop buttons 7a to 7c for stopping the rotation of the reels 4a to 4c and deriving and displaying the stop symbol, and the reel 4a.
To 4c, a setting means (setting input device 71, effect control device 60) capable of setting a stop symbol or a combination of stop symbols to be derived and displayed by the player's operation
Etc.) and operation timings of the reel stop buttons 7a to 7c capable of deriving the display mode set by the setting input device 71, output of the reel position detection sensors 31a to 31c,
Since the setting means is provided and the notification means (notification lamp 72, effect control device 60, etc.) for notifying the timing when the set symbol and the detection result of the reel position match, the game becomes complicated. Thus, in response to the progress of the game in which the symbol to be stopped is not necessarily fixed, the player can be advantageously guided by assisting the player in the operation timing for stopping the symbol to be targeted.

Since the evaluation means (production control device 60) for evaluating the operation result of the reel stop buttons 7a to 7c with respect to the notification timing of the notification lamp 72 is provided,
The evaluation of the result of the player's operation of the reel stop buttons 7a to 7c can be reflected in the game after the next time, which can contribute to the improvement of the skill of the player. Further, by knowing the cause of the player's failure to aim, it is possible to prevent troubles between the player and the game store during the game.

Further, the notification lamp 72 causes the stop symbol to be variably displayed (rotated) in the game, depending on the evaluation result of the game control device 50, with respect to the reel from which the stop symbol has been derived and displayed in advance in one game. Since the notification of other reels that have not been performed is stopped, redundant notification is not performed, so that the player can be allowed to proceed smoothly without misunderstanding, and the decrease in operation of the gaming machine can be prevented. You can

FIG. 10 is a functional block diagram relating to the notification of the operation timing of the gaming machine (pachi-slot machine) according to the embodiment of the present invention.

Various information relating to the game is passed from the game control means to the notification means. That is, lottery result information regarding the lottery result based on the random number lottery, reel stop position information regarding the reel stop position, and game state information regarding in what state the game is progressing are transmitted. Also,
The setting input information input to the setting means is transmitted from the setting means to the notification means regarding the setting of the notification of the operation timing.

Then, the notifying means notifies the operation timing by using these pieces of information. That is, based on the lottery result information described above, the display mode of the other variable display unit,
The stop position table is selected, and the pull-in controllable range (which range can be drawn into the symbol, which range the symbol is kicked into) is calculated, and based on the position information of the spinning reels 7a to 7c. To inform the operation timing. Then, the operation timing is evaluated by comparing the notified timing with the operation timing by the player.

As described above, in the embodiment shown in FIG.
By the establishment of a predetermined condition in the game, the notification lamp 72
Since the notification control means (auxiliary control device 60) for controlling whether or not to operate is provided, it is possible to perform appropriate notification without excessive redundancy.

At this time, the operation timing can be notified only when a predetermined game condition is satisfied. For example, when it is determined that the internal control state of the game has become a specific state based on the game state information (when transitioning to a specific game state advantageous to the player), or the operation timing is notified, or The operation timing is notified when it is determined that the specific flag is established based on the game lottery result information. Thus, if it is configured to judge whether or not the specific condition is satisfied by referring to the stored contents of the RAM and notify the operation timing only when the specific condition is satisfied, the technical intervention of the player can be prevented. It is possible to assist, and it is possible to provide a new game state that is advantageous to the player. In addition, even if the skill is inexperienced, it is possible to receive assistance from the gaming machine, so that beginners can be taken into consideration. It is possible to provide a game machine in consideration of the above.

If the operation timing is not notified after a predetermined time has passed from the previous game or when the remaining credit amount becomes zero, the player's previous player will not be notified when the player is replaced. You can clear the settings.

Further, since the notification lamp 72 refers to the establishment status of the flag stored in the RAM, the notification lamp 72 notifies the player of the timing only when the symbol can be stopped in the game, It is possible to smoothly advance the game without notifying even when the targeted symbol cannot be derived, and it is possible to prevent a decrease in the operation of the gaming machine.

FIG. 11 is a timing chart for notifying the operation timing of the gaming machine (pachi-slot machine) according to the embodiment of the present invention. In this figure, the case where it is set to notify the seventh symbol of the left reel is shown.

When the game control device 50 detects the operation of the start lever 6, the reels 4a to 4c start rotating. Then, by the reel position detection sensors 31a to 31c,
The rotation position of the reel is detected, and the symbol before the symbol to be notified (the sixth symbol on the left reel) passes, and the symbol after the symbol to be notified (the eighth symbol on the left reel) is Until it is detected, that is, while the symbol to be notified (the seventh symbol on the left reel) is passing through the center line of the display window section 20, a signal for turning on the notification lamp is transmitted, and the notification lamp is transmitted. Lights up and the timing for the symbol is notified.

When the game control device 50 detects the operation of the reel stop button 7a, the left reel 4a stops rotating and the operation timing of the reel stop button 7a of the player is evaluated to inform the evaluation result. Then, the notification of the evaluation result is ended by the bet operation by the player.

FIG. 12 is a timing chart for notifying another operation timing of the gaming machine (pachi-slot machine) according to the embodiment of the present invention. In this figure, similarly to the example shown in FIG. 11, a case is shown in which the seventh reel on the left reel is set to be informed.

When the game control device 50 detects the operation of the start lever 6, the reels 4a to 4c start rotating. Then, by the reel position detection sensors 31a to 31c,
The rotation position of the reel is detected, and the symbol two symbols before the symbol to be notified (the fifth symbol on the left reel) passes, and the symbol two symbols after the symbol to be notified (the ninth symbol on the left reel). Until the symbol is detected, that is, while the symbol to be notified (the 7th symbol on the left reel) is appearing in the display window section 20, a signal for turning on the indicator lamp is transmitted to notify the indicator lamp. Lights up and the timing for the symbol is notified. That is, while the symbol to be notified (7th symbol on the left reel) and the symbols before and after it (6th symbol and 8th symbol) are passing through the center line of the display window section 20, The timing for the symbol (7th symbol on the left reel) is notified.

When the game control device 50 detects the operation of the reel stop button 7a, the left reel 4a stops rotating, the operation timing of the reel stop button 7a of the player is evaluated, and the evaluation result is notified. Then, the notification of the evaluation result is ended by the bet operation by the player.

As described above, in the embodiment shown in FIG.
While the symbol to be notified appears in the display window 20 and is visible to the player, the timing of the symbol is notified so that the prize can be obtained if the symbol stops on any of the activated lines. Even in such a case, the player does not miss the prize depending on the operation timing of the reel stop button.

As described above, in the embodiments shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, as the timing at which the display mode related to the notification can be derived, the timing at which the symbol (display mode) related to the notification passes through the activated line is notified. That is, the so-called timing of stopping at the symbol is notified when the bitter is pressed. However, unlike this, it is also possible to notify the symbol related to the notification of the timing at which it can be stopped by the pull-in control (the display mode related to the notification can be derived). That is, when the pull-in control is being performed, it is configured to notify the timing of pulling in so that the symbol (display mode) related to the notice is stopped on the activated line. More specifically, when the pull-in control of four frames is being performed, the notification is performed from the symbol four frames before to the symbol to be notified. If the reel stop buttons 7a to 7c are operated while the notification is being made, the reels are stopped at the symbol to be notified by the pull-in control.

FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram relating to setting of notification of operation timing of the gaming machine (pachi-slot machine) according to the embodiment of the present invention. The operation timings shown in this figure are the auxiliary display device 5 and the setting input device 71 installed in the auxiliary display device.
It is set by (touch panel).

On the left side of the auxiliary display device 5, a part (3 pieces) of the symbols of the selected reel are displayed. An operation area for setting input is provided on the right side of the auxiliary display device 5. In the center of the operation area, information that can identify the reel currently undergoing the setting operation is displayed. In this figure, "L" is displayed, indicating that the left reel is selected.

Further, operating means (reel selection keys) capable of selecting a reel for setting operation are provided on the left and right of the operation area. When the player operates this operation means (touches the reel selection key), the reels for the setting operation are switched and displayed in the center of the operation area.
The display regarding the reel currently being set is changed from "L" to "C" and "R".

Further, above and below the operation area, operation means (design selection key) capable of selecting a design for timing notification
Is provided. By operating this operation means (touching the symbol selection key), the player switches the symbol for notifying the timing, and changes some symbols of the reel displayed in the area on the left side of the auxiliary display device 5. It

FIG. 14 is an explanatory diagram regarding another setting of the notification of the operation timing of the gaming machine (pachi-slot machine) according to the embodiment of the present invention. In this figure, similar to the example shown in FIG. 13, the setting is performed by the auxiliary display device 5 and the setting input device 71 (touch panel) provided in the auxiliary display device.

The display screen of the auxiliary display device 5 is divided into three parts, that is, left, middle, and right, each corresponding to the left reel 4a, the middle reel 4b, and the right reel 4c. The auxiliary display device 5 is provided with an operation area for setting input. This operation area is provided with an operation means (reel selection key) capable of selecting a reel for setting operation and an operation means (symbol selection key) capable of selecting a symbol for timing notification.

In the state shown in FIG. 14, the left reel is displayed brightly, the other (middle, right) reels are displayed dark, and the left reel is selected. The reel selection key may be operated to move the setting input operation area to the left or right to display the selected reel.

When the player operates the operation means (touches the reel selection key), the reel for setting operation is switched. Further, the player operates the operation means (touches the symbol selection key) to switch the symbol for notifying the timing, and the symbol of the reel displayed on the auxiliary display device 5 is changed.

As described above, in the embodiment shown in FIGS. 13 and 14, the reel 4a is an arbitrary display mode among the display modes that can be led to the variable display section by the setting input device 71.
Since it is possible to set the symbols arranged at specific positions 4c to 4c, it is possible to set an arbitrary position in the symbol array on the reel. For example, it is possible to set the left symbol row 7 to stop on the center line.
Further, since the notification lamp 72 notifies the operation timing at which the design at the set position can be stopped and lights up,
It is possible for the player to aim for the display mode that the player wants to derive.

FIG. 15 is an explanatory diagram regarding another setting of the notification of the operation timing of the gaming machine (pachi-slot machine) according to the embodiment of the present invention. In this figure, similar to the example shown in FIGS. 13 and 14, the setting is performed by the auxiliary display device 5 and the setting input device 71 (touch panel) provided in the auxiliary display device. Unlike the example shown,
It shows a case where the player selects a symbol to be stopped, not the position on the reel (the symbol at a specific position on the reel).

On the left side of the auxiliary display device 5, the symbols arranged on the reels are displayed. An operation area for setting input is provided on the right side of the auxiliary display device 5. In this operation area, operation means (symbol selection key) capable of selecting a symbol for timing notification is provided. By operating this operation means (touching the symbol selection key), the player switches the symbol for notifying the timing, and the symbol displayed in the area on the left side of the auxiliary display device 5 is changed, bell, cherry, It is possible to set the timing to be notified to stop at the symbol by the symbol type such as 7, BAR.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 15, no operating means for selecting a reel for setting operation is provided. However, it is possible to set a symbol for notifying the timing for each reel, and set the reel for setting operation. You may comprise so that a selectable operation means (reel selection key) may be provided.

FIG. 16 is an explanatory diagram regarding another setting of the notification of the operation timing of the gaming machine (pachi-slot machine) according to the embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 13, FIG. 14, FIG.
Similar to the example shown in FIG. 5, it is set by the auxiliary display device 5 and the setting input device 71 (touch panel) attached to the auxiliary display device, but unlike the examples shown in FIGS. 13 to 15, a symbol is selected. Instead, the case where the player selects a game policy (strategy) to be realized by the stop symbol is shown.

On the left side of the auxiliary display device 5, the types of game policies (strategies) that can be selected as those realized by the stop symbols are displayed. That is, this strategy
It is a combination obtained when the stop symbol is a specific combination, or a privilege obtained when the stop symbol is a combination other than the specific combination.

On the right side of the auxiliary display device 5, an operation area for setting input is provided. In this operation area, operation means (strategy selection key) capable of selecting a strategy for notifying the reel stop operation timing for realizing this strategy is provided. By operating this operation means (touching the strategy selection key), the player switches the symbol for notifying the timing, changes the strategy displayed in the area on the left side of the auxiliary display device 5, and aims for a small role ( Bell aim, cherry aim), BB aim (7 aim), RB aim (BAR aim),
It is possible to set a game policy such as replay removal.

As described above, in the embodiment shown in FIGS. 15 and 16, since the winning combination realized by the combination of the symbols arranged on the reels 4a to 4c can be set by the setting input device 71, the player can set the winning combination. Set the symbol to be notified of the operation timing even if the symbol to be aimed at is decided but the arrangement of the symbol on the reel is not known, or if the player has decided the role to aim but does not know the symbol forming that role It is possible to simplify the setting of the notification timing. Further, since the notification lamp 72 notifies the derivable operation timing of the set symbol regardless of the arrangement position on the reel, the symbol targeted by the player is fixed, but the operation is performed even if the position on the reel is unknown. Can be notified of timing.

Further, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 16, it is not desired to display a predetermined winning combination among the winning combinations realized by the combination of the symbols arranged on the reels 4a to 4c by the setting input device 71. Since it is possible to set (winning combination that you do not want to display), you can set the notification of the operation timing even if you do not want to derive the winning combination like removing the replay, and simplify the setting of the notification timing. be able to.

The embodiments disclosed this time are illustrative in all points and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is shown not by the above description of the invention but by the scope of claims for patent, and it is intended that all modifications within the meaning and scope equivalent to the scope of claims for patent are included.

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a front view showing a configuration of a gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a part of a control system of the same.

FIG. 3 is an array diagram of reel symbols.

FIG. 4 is an explanatory view showing a winning mode.

FIG. 5 is a state transition diagram of the same gaming state.

FIG. 6 is also a state transition diagram of the big bonus game.

FIG. 7 is a flow chart of game control processing of a normal state.

FIG. 8 is also a state transition diagram related to notification of stop timing.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart of a notification process of stop timing.

FIG. 10 is also a functional block diagram related to notification of stop timing.

FIG. 11 is a timing diagram of notification of operation timing.

FIG. 12 is a timing diagram for similarly notifying operation timing.

FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram regarding setting of notification of operation timing in the same manner.

FIG. 14 is an explanatory diagram relating to the setting of notification of operation timing.

FIG. 15 is an explanatory diagram regarding setting of notification of operation timing in the same manner.

FIG. 16 is an explanatory diagram relating to setting of notification of operation timing.

[Explanation of symbols]

4a-4c reel (variable display device) 5 Auxiliary display device 6 Start lever 7a-7c Reel stop button 7d reel stop button 50 Game control device (main control device) 60 Performance control device (sub-control device) 100 slot machine

Claims (9)

[Claims] 1. A variable display device having a plurality of variable display parts whose display states can be changed, wherein one game is completed by displaying and displaying the display results of the plurality of variable display parts. In a gaming machine in which a predetermined winning occurs when the display result of the display unit is in a predetermined display mode, an operating unit that performs an operation for deriving and displaying the display result of the variable display unit, and the variable display unit A setting means capable of setting a display mode desired to be derived and displayed as a display result by a player's operation; and a notification means for notifying an operation timing of the operation means capable of deriving the display mode set by the setting means. A gaming machine characterized by that. 2. The gaming machine according to claim 1, further comprising an evaluation unit that evaluates an operation result of the operation unit with respect to the notification timing of the notification unit. 3. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the setting means can set an arbitrary display mode among display modes that can be derived to the variable display section. 4. The setting means can set a winning combination to be derived and displayed on the variable display section, and the informing means notifies an operation timing at which a display mode for forming the winning combination can be derived. The gaming machine according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that. 5. The setting means can set, out of the display modes that can be derived to the variable display section, that a predetermined winning combination is not to be derived and displayed, and the notifying means displays the winning combination. The game machine according to claim 1 or 2, which notifies an operation timing of not deriving a display mode to be formed. 6. The evaluation means is capable of evaluating an operation result by the operation means for each of the variable display sections, and the notifying means is a variable display in which the evaluation means derives a display result in one game first. 6. The evaluation result regarding a part determines whether or not to notify other variable display parts for which display results have not been derived in the game, according to any one of claims 2 to 5. Amusement machine. 7. By the establishment of a predetermined condition in the game,
The gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 6, further comprising a notification control unit that controls whether or not to operate the notification unit. 8. The notification means gives notification only when the display mode for notifying the player of the timing can be stopped in the display mode related to the timing notification in the game. The gaming machine according to any one of 1 to 7. 9. The informing means informs the player of the timing regardless of whether the display mode relating to the timing notification in the game is stoppable or unstoppable. Claims 1 to 7
A gaming machine described in any one of.