JP2003169930A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine which can offer variable display games sustaining higher expectations and interests by diversifying the variable display games while making stages more fir with variable display patterns. <P>SOLUTION: The game machine is provided with a variable display device 4a and a display control means 40. The display control means has a stage image control means which performs a display control of a stage image 700 showing a stage for the variable display games and an identifying figure control means which performs control related to identifying figures A, B and C. The stage image control means contains a stage image switching means for switching stage images after the start of the variable display games and the identifying figure control means contains a variable display control means which performs a control to shift the pattern of the variable display of the identifying figures to a different pattern responding to the switching of the stage images and a figure standby control means which moves the identifying figures to a specified position to be kept unchanged on standby in the switching of the stage images. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2003,JPO

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a pachinko gaming machine and a pachislot machine provided with a variable display device capable of displaying a variable display game with a plurality of identification symbols, and display control means for performing display control of the variable display game. The present invention relates to a gaming machine such as a gaming machine.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, as a gaming machine, for example, a pachinko gaming machine, a variable display device capable of displaying a variable display game with a plurality of symbols and a start winning opening are provided on a game board, and a game to the starting winning opening is provided. A pachinko gaming machine is known in which a variable display game is played by variably displaying a plurality of symbols on the variable display device based on the winning of a ball.

The variable display game is carried out by variably displaying a symbol string composed of a plurality of symbols in each of the left, middle and right display areas formed on the variable display device. When a predetermined time has passed from the start of the game, the variable display of each display area is stopped, for example, in the order of left, middle, and right, and a predetermined symbol is stopped and displayed to derive the result mode. The variable display in each display area is performed by sequentially updating and displaying the symbols according to the order in the symbol column. Note that this result mode has already been determined, for example, at the beginning of the variable display game, and the variable display of the plurality of display areas is stop-controlled for each symbol so as to match the already determined result mode. It

Then, when the variable display game ends, each symbol stopped and displayed in each of the plurality of display areas is a predetermined special result mode (big hit result mode: for example, "1,
1, 1 ”,“ 2, 2, 2 ”, etc.) is formed, a special game state (big hit game state) is generated as a game value addition, for example, a game By converting the variable winning device provided on the board to the open state, the player can obtain a large amount of game balls. In addition, just before the variable display game ends, for example, the variable display of the left display area and the middle display area is stopped, and only the variable display of the right display area is being performed. Forms a reach display mode (for example, "2,2,-",-represents an unstopped state) and becomes a reach (reach state), the speed of the variable display in the right display area is reduced. In addition, it is common to use a reach variation display that makes the variation display time longer than usual to increase the player's expectation for establishment of a special result mode (occurrence of a special game state). Has become.

As the variable display performed in each display area when the variable display game is started, the variable display mode in which the symbols are sequentially updated and displayed by moving the symbols from the top to the bottom, that is, scrolling is performed. It is commonplace. On the other hand, recent game machines are increasingly equipped with a liquid crystal display device or the like capable of more various expressions as the variable display device. When such a variable display device is provided, in addition to the variable display pattern (identification pattern), various images for increasing the interest and expectation of the variable display game are displayed simultaneously. . As the image, in the case where the variable display game is reach, etc., a stage image that forms a stage in which the variable display game is executed by including a decorative pattern around the identification pattern such as trees and mountains and the background is decorated. There is an effect image including an effect pattern such as a character (a character imitating a person or an animal) that effects the variable display game.

[0006]

However, even if the stage display image is displayed on the variable display device and the variable display game is played, if the same stage image is displayed every time, it is not possible to perform various displays. Is difficult to improve. Further, conventionally, for example, it is considered that a background image is switched as a stage image when a predetermined game condition such as a probability variation state is satisfied.
The conventional one does not switch the background image depending on the progress state of the variable display game (that is, in the middle of the variable display game, etc.) but simply notifies the game state on the variable display device. It didn't increase. In addition, conventionally, even if the background image is switched, the variable display mode of the symbols in the variable display game does not change at all, so not only can it not be possible to perform various displays, but the background image can be displayed by simply switching only the background image. On the other hand, the variable display modes may not be in harmony with each other and the player may feel uncomfortable, or the display may be complicated as a whole.

The present invention has been made in order to solve the above problems, and makes it possible to switch the stage image after the start of the variable display game, and the variation of the identification symbol according to the switching of the stage image. By making the display mode changeable, the variable display game can be diversified, and the stage and the variable display mode can be matched more effectively, whereby a variable display game with a high expectation and amusement can be played. The purpose is to provide a machine.

[0008]

In order to solve the above problems, the invention according to claim 1 performs a variable display device capable of displaying a variable display game with a plurality of identification symbols, and a display control of the variable display device. In a gaming machine provided with display control means, the display control means controls stage image control means for performing display control of a stage image showing a stage where a variable display game is played, and control relating to identification symbols in the variable display game. An identification symbol control means for performing, the stage image control means includes stage image switching means for switching the stage image after the start of the variable display game, and the identification symbol control means for the stage image by the stage image switching means. A variable display control means capable of changing the variable display mode of the identification symbol to a different variable display mode in response to the switching, and the stage. When the image switching means performs the switching of the stage image, the identification symbol displayed before the switching is moved to a predetermined position and the identification symbol is kept in the unchanged state until the stage image is switched. And a standby control means.

Here, the "gaming machine" includes a ball game machine such as a pachinko game machine, an arrangement ball game machine, a sparrow ball game machine, a pachi-slot machine, or a slot machine.
The “identification pattern” is a pattern including a visually identifiable pattern (identification mark) such as numbers, characters and symbols, and colors. "Variable display device" means liquid crystal display device, CRT
(Cathode ray tube) Even a single device such as a display device, a display device in which these devices and a large number of light emitting elements are arranged,
It may be combined with a mechanical display device using a rotating drum, or the like, as long as it includes a region in which a variable display game is possible. The "stage image" is an image that decorates the periphery of the identification pattern displayed on the variable display device, and includes an image such as a background image displayed behind the identification pattern or an image displayed in front of the identification pattern. Including. The “control related to the identification symbol” is an expression including variable display control of the identification symbol, deformation control of the identification symbol, movement control of the identification symbol, and the like. The “variable display mode” is a mode until the identification pattern is updated to the next identification pattern, and there are modes such as scrolling and rotation. The “predetermined position” is a position different from the previous position and may be any position, but preferably a position that does not interfere with the switching of stage images. The "non-variable state" is a state in which no variable display is performed, and includes a state in which a predetermined swing display or the like is performed at this time.

According to the invention of claim 1, the stage image can be switched after the start of the variable display game, and the variable display mode of the identification symbol can be variously changed according to the switching of the stage image. Therefore, the variable display game can be diversified, and the stage and the variable display mode can be matched more, and the interest can be improved. Further, since the identification pattern is moved to a predetermined position and made to stand by until the switching of the stage images is completed, it is possible to more clearly recognize that the stage images are switched. In particular, if the identification pattern is moved to a position avoiding the central portion of the display unit of the variable display device, the stage images can be smoothly switched without complicating the expression even during the variable display game. Moreover, while waiting at the predetermined position, the identification pattern is in a non-variable state, and therefore, no matter how the stage images are switched, the display mode is changed to the variable display mode according to the stage image without any discomfort. be able to. That is, waiting the identification symbol is effective for both the switching of the stage image and the shift to the variable display mode that changes variously.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, in the gaming machine according to the first aspect, after the stage image is switched by the stage image switching means, the symbol standby control means waits at the predetermined position for identification. The symbol is moved again to a specific position set according to the switched stage image, and the variable display control means performs variable display at the specific position in a variable display mode corresponding to the stage image. It is characterized by controlling to.

Here, the "specific position" refers to a position where the identification pattern set in each stage image is variably displayed.

According to the second aspect of the present invention, after the stage images are switched by the stage image switching means, the symbol standby control means waits at the predetermined position for the identification symbol, and the switched stage image is selected. According to the change of the stage image, the variable display control means performs the variable display in the variable display mode corresponding to the stage image at the specific position. In addition to the variable display mode of the symbols, even when the location where the identification symbols are variably displayed is changed, it is possible to display them efficiently without any discomfort.

According to a third aspect of the invention, in the gaming machine according to the first or second aspect, the stage image switching means switches the stage images at a high rate when the result of the variable display game is a big hit. It is characterized by doing so.

According to the invention of claim 3, the stage image switching means switches the stage images at a high rate when the result of the variable display game is a big hit, so that the stage images can be switched. As a result, the player's expectation can be enhanced, and the expectation can also be enhanced by changing the variable display mode of the identification symbol. Moreover, it is possible to more clearly inform the change in expression that can increase the expectation of the player.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in the gaming machine according to any one of the first to third aspects, the symbol standby control means, even if the stage image switching means does not switch the stage image, the identification. The feature is that the design is made to stand by.

According to the fourth aspect of the invention, the symbol standby control means may cause the identification symbol to stand by even when the stage image switching means does not switch the stage image, so that the identification symbol is at a predetermined position. Even when the player waits, the stage images may or may not be switched, and it may not be possible to know whether or not the stage images are switched until immediately before the switching, so that the player can be expected for a longer time. it can.

According to a fifth aspect of the invention, in the gaming machine according to any of the first to fourth aspects, the stage image switching means selects any one of a plurality of predetermined stage images. Then, the stage images are switched, and the variable display control means is capable of setting a plurality of types of variable display modes corresponding to each of the plurality of stage images on a one-to-one basis.

According to the invention of claim 5, the stage image switching means prepares a plurality of switchable stage images in advance, and the variable display control means makes a pair for each of the plurality of stage images. Since a plurality of types of variable display modes corresponding to 1 can be set, the relationship between the stage image and the variable display mode becomes closer, and the expression becomes more versatile and the interest can be improved. . Moreover, it is possible to display the switching of the stage images and the transition to the variable display mode according to the switching without any discomfort even if the expression is variously changed.

According to a sixth aspect of the invention, in the gaming machine according to any one of the first to fifth aspects, the variable display control means, when the stage image control means does not switch the stage images, It is assumed that the variable display of the identification pattern is performed by scrolling, and when the stage image switching means switches the stage image to a predetermined stage image, the variable display of the identification symbol is performed in a variable display mode in which the identification symbol is switched on the spot. It is characterized by doing so.

Here, the "variable display mode in which the identification symbol is switched on the spot" is, for example, a variable display mode in which the identification symbol is instantaneously switched to the next identification symbol, and the identification symbol is rotated around the axis to There is a variable display mode or the like that switches to the identification pattern.

According to the invention of claim 6, when the stage image control means does not switch the stage images, the variable display control means performs the variable display of the identification symbol by scrolling, and the stage When the image switching means switches the stage image to a predetermined stage image, the variable display of the identification symbol is performed in the variable display mode in which the identification symbol is switched on the spot, so that the identification symbol is switched on the spot from the scroll. Even when shifting to the variable display mode, by making the identification symbol stand by when switching the stage image, it can be smoothly performed without any discomfort.

The invention according to claim 7 is, in the gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the symbol standby control means reduces the identification symbol when the identification symbol is put on standby. What I did is a feature.

According to the invention as set forth in claim 7, since the symbol standby control means is arranged to reduce the identification symbol when the identification symbol is made to stand by, the switching state of the stage image can be more clearly known. be able to.

The invention according to claim 8 is the gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the identification symbol control means is configured to include the predetermined symbol symbol as the identification symbol, and the symbol is the symbol. When the standby control means is waiting for the identification symbol, the character symbol is changed to a special expression.

Here, the "special expression" includes an expression in which a character pattern imitating a person has a surprised expression, an expression in which a character pattern makes a guts pose, and the like.

According to the invention as set forth in claim 8, the identification symbol control means is configured such that the identification symbol includes a predetermined character symbol, and the symbol standby control means waits for the identification symbol. Since the character design is changed to a special expression, it is possible to notify that the stage image may be switched by a more interesting expression on the display of the character design.

[0028]

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 a gaming board of a pachinko gaming machine as an example of the gaming machine according to the present invention.

In the game area 1a surrounded by the guide rails 2 of this game board 1, the universal figure starting gates 6 and 6, the special symbol (special symbol) display device 4, the ordinary symbol (general symbol) display device 7, the universal symbol Figure Open / close members 9a, 9 depending on the result of the variable display game
Opening a (a state advantageous to the player) closing (a state unfavorable to the player) Ordinary variable winning a prize device 9 also serving as a special figure starting winning port, closing the special winning port 5b depending on the result of the special figure changing display game Standing (Disadvantageous to the player)
From the open state (a state advantageous to the player), a special variable winning device 5 for performing a cycle game, general winning holes 8, ..., Side lamps 12, 12, a hitting ball direction changing member 14 called a windmill, ... Obstacle nails (not shown) and the like are provided. An out hole 13 for collecting out balls is provided at the center of the lowermost end of the game area 1a.

The special symbol display device 4 is, for example, a variable display device 4a of a special figure composed of a liquid crystal display (LCD), and a variable display device 4a based on a command from the game control device 20 (FIG. 2). A display control device 40 (FIG. 2) exemplified as a display control means for performing the display control of
Is equipped with. The variable display device 4a has a display unit (display screen) 4g capable of displaying a plurality of special symbols (for example, identification symbols including identification information such as numbers, characters and symbols, and colors). A plurality of display areas can be set on the display unit 4g, and a series of symbols are sequentially displayed in each of the display areas in a variable manner and then stopped to display a variable display game of a special figure. Has become. The special symbol (identification symbol) in this embodiment is "1".
It is comprised including the numerical design of "~" and the character design defined for every said numerical design.

Further, the display portion 4g of the variable display device 4a.
In addition to the special design, a stage image is displayed on the screen. The stage image is an image that forms a stage where a variable display game is performed by decorating the periphery of a special design (identification design), such as an image such as a background image displayed behind the identification design, or an identification design. It is composed of an image displayed on the front side. Further, as will be described later, this stage image can be switched to another stage image after the start of the variable display game (for example, a sea stage image described later can be switched to a torii stage image). Further, in the variable display game according to this embodiment, the variable display mode of the identification symbol can be changed to a different mode according to the switching of the stage image.

At the lower part of the special symbol display device 4, a special figure starting memory indicator for illuminating and displaying the number of unprocessed times when the game ball is won in the normal variable winning device 9 and the special figure variable display game is unprocessed. 4b, ... Are provided.

The normal symbol display device (general symbol display) 7 is composed of, for example, a 7-segment LED,
Ordinary design (for example, identification information such as design, numbers, symbols)
The variable display game is being played. Also,
On the right side of the opening / closing door 5a of the special variation winning device 5, a game ball is won in the universal figure starting gates 6 and 6 (starting prize of the universal figure) and the universal figure variation display game is unprocessed. A universal figure starting memory display 6a for displaying is provided.

The normal variation winning device 9 is provided with a pair of left and right opening / closing members 9a, 9a. The opening / closing members 9a, 9a always keep a closed state at an interval such that one game ball can flow in. However, when the result of the variable display game of the normal symbol display device 7 becomes a predetermined result mode (for example, "7"), the reverse "C" is driven by driving the universal solenoid 6c (Fig. 2). The game balls are opened in a regular manner and the game balls are easily flown into the normal variation winning device 9 (a state advantageous for the player). The normal variation winning device 9 also serves as a starting winning hole for a special figure, and is provided with a special figure starting sensor 9b (FIG. 2) inside (the winning area). Further, inside the universal figure starting gates 6 and 6, there are provided universal figure starting sensors 6b and 6b (FIG. 2) for detecting the game balls that have passed through the universal figure starting gates 6 and 6.

The special variation winning device 5 is provided with a special winning opening 5b which is opened and closed by an attacker type opening / closing door 5a. The open / close door 5a can be opened by rotating the special winning opening solenoid 5e (FIG. 2) in a direction in which the upper end side of the open / close door 5a is tilted toward the front side.
Result mode of the variable display game in g (variable display device 4
The special display mode in each display area of the display unit 4g of a) is a special display mode (for example, the special pattern is "7, 7,
7 ”specific combination mode) and a big hit, and when a big hit game state occurs, a big winning opening 5b
Is opened so that a lot of game balls can be easily obtained (a state advantageous to the player).
Inside the special winning opening 5b (winning area), a count sensor 5 for detecting a game ball that has entered the special winning opening 5b.
c (FIG. 2) and a special winning opening continuation sensor 5d (FIG. 2) for detecting a game ball that has flown into the continuous winning area (V winning area) among the game balls that have entered the special winning opening 5b. ing. Further, inside each of the general winning openings 8, ... (Winning area), there are provided winning opening sensors 8a, ... (FIG. 2) for detecting the game balls entering the general winning openings 8 ,. There is.

FIG. 2 is a main control block diagram of the game control device 20 and the display control device 40 installed on the back side of the pachinko gaming machine.

The game control device 20 has a CPU (Cent
ral Processing Unit) 21a, RAM (Random Access)
Memory) 21b and ROM (Read Only Memory) 21
A game microcomputer 21 provided with c, input I /
It is composed of an F23a, an output I / F 23b, an oscillator 22 and the like, and controls the game in general.

The CPU 21a includes a control unit and a calculation unit,
In addition to performing arithmetic control, it also generates various random numbers that are involved in determining the game content of variable display games for special maps and public maps.
The RAM 21b stores the ON signal of the special figure starting sensor 9b as the special figure starting signal (special figure starting memory) and the ON signal of the general figure starting sensors 6b and 6b as general figure starting signal (general figure starting memory). Storage area for storing random number values generated by the CPU 21a, a storage area for temporarily storing various data, and a work area for the CPU 21a. In the ROM 21c, a control program and control data for a game are written, and various determination values for determining the game content of a variable display game of a special figure or a general figure (for example, the occurrence of a special game state is determined. (Determination value for) is written.

Further, the input I / F 23a is provided with a special figure starting sensor 9b, ordinary figure starting sensors 6b and 6b, a continuation sensor 5d, a count sensor 5c, a winning opening sensor 8a, through a low pass filter and a buffer gate (not shown). ... are connected, and the detection signals output from the respective sensors are output to the CPU 21a via the input I / F 23a. On the other hand, the output I / F 23b has a CP
Various control signals output from U21a are input, and those control signals are output I / F 23b via an output port and a driver (not shown), a normal symbol display device (universal figure display) 7, a universal electric solenoid 6c. , The special winning opening solenoid 5e, the discharge control device 30, the display control device 40, the decoration control device 50, the sound control device 60, the external information output unit 81 for the board, and the like.

The discharge control device 30 uses a ball discharge unit (not shown) based on a prize ball control command output from the CPU 21a of the game control device 20 and a ball rental control command output from a card unit (not shown). ), A control is performed to discharge a required number of game balls (prize balls, ball rental balls). The decoration control device 50 is the CPU 2 of the game control device 20.
Based on the decoration control command output from 1a, various LEs
D. Controls the light emission state of the lamp. Further, the sound control device 60 controls the sound effect and sound output from the speaker based on the sound control command output from the CPU 21a of the game control device 20.

The display control device (display control means) 40 is C
PU (Central Processing Unit) 41, ROM (Read
Only Memory) 42, RAM (Random Access Memory)
43 and DMAC (Direct Memory Access Controlle)
r) 44, oscillator 45, VDC (Video Digital Control)
ler) 46, a font ROM 47, a γ correction circuit 48 for performing γ correction when converting an electric signal (input signal) of the VDC 46 into an optical signal (output signal), an interface 49, and the like.

The CPU 41 is provided with a control section, a calculation section, various counters, various registers, etc. inside thereof, and is connected to the game control apparatus 20 via an interface 49, and under the control of the game control apparatus 20 the variable display device 4a. The display is controlled. The control data is sent to the VDC 46 in synchronization with the pulse from the oscillator 45. A display control program, display control data, and the like for performing display control of the variable display device 4a are written in the ROM 42. R
The AM 43 has a storage area for temporarily storing various data, a work area for the CPU 41, and the like. DMAC44
Responds to the display control information (command) from the gaming microcomputer 21 and directly exchanges the display control data with each memory or VDC 46 without accessing the CPU 41.

In the font ROM 47, the display data of the identification pattern for the variable display game, the pattern data of the variable display mode in the variable display game, the display data of the stage image, the display data of the reach state image, the characters for explaining the game content The display data of is written. VDC
Although not shown in the figure, the sprite RA is provided inside 46.
M, palette RAM, V-RAM, etc. are provided,
The following image data control is performed. That is, VDC
In response to the command signal from the CPU 41, 46 retrieves and edits the display data of the special design (identification design) and the stage image from the font ROM 47. Then, on the basis of the color arrangement data included in the command signal, the palette RAM is used to specify the color arrangement for the edited image data, and then the sprite RAM is used to edit the image of the special design or character. The edited image data signal is corrected by the γ correction circuit 48, then transmitted to the variable display device 4a in synchronization with V_SYNC or H_SYNC, and displayed on the variable display device 4a.

The pachinko gaming machine according to this embodiment,
With the above-mentioned configuration, the game control device 20 and the display control device 40 perform the following game control, for example.

First, when the power of the pachinko gaming machine is turned on, as shown in FIG. 3, a waiting state for customers (step S
0). In this waiting state for customers, the variable display device 4a
In the display unit 4g, for example, a demonstration display for attracting customers is displayed, or a special symbol is displayed in a stopped state in each of normal display areas described later.

In this state, when the game ball hit in the game area 1a wins the normal variable winning device 9 (special figure starting winning port), the state changes (step S1). That is, in the CPU 21a of the game control device 20, based on the detection signal output from the special figure starting sensor 9b inside the normal variation winning device 9, various random number values related to the special figure stored in the RAM 21b (memory update at a predetermined cycle). Are extracted), and the extracted random number value is compared with various judgment values relating to the special figure stored in the ROM 21c in advance to generate the contents of the variable display game of the special figure (for example, a special game state is generated). It is determined whether or not the special symbol to be permanently stopped in each of the display areas is determined), and the display control information is output to the display control device 40 based on the determination.

The display control information output at this time includes data of a special symbol (identification symbol) to be permanently stopped in each of the display areas, variation pattern data, and the like, and the variation of the special symbol is caused by the variation pattern data. Time and a variation pattern (normal variation, presence, reach type, re-lottery, advance notice, etc.) and a corresponding stage image are designated.

When the display control device 40 receives the display control information from the game control device 20, the display control device 40 edits the image data based on the display control information and sends the edited image data to the variable display device 4a to change the image data. In each of the display areas set in the display unit 4g of the display device 4a, a series of special symbols (identification symbols) are sequentially variably displayed, and then the special display variable display game is stopped. In particular,
Based on the variation pattern data included in the display control information, a predetermined variation pattern (variable display mode pattern, normal variation, reach, type of reach, revariation, advance notice, re-lottery, etc.) for a predetermined time, After the special symbols in the set display areas are variably displayed, the special symbols specified by the display control information are temporarily stopped in each display area (stopped in a swaying state).

In the game control device 20, the display control information for instructing the stop of the change is output to the display control device 40 when the change time designated by the previously output display control information has elapsed. In the display control device 40, based on the display control information for instructing the variable stop, display control for permanently stopping the special symbol temporarily stopped in each of the display areas is performed. In addition,
In the case of the variation pattern in which the re-lottery is performed, after the temporary stop (the provisional special display mode is derived), it is instructed to perform the final stop after re-changing.

At this time, for example, in the game control device 20, if the loss is determined by comparing the random number for the big hit determination of the special figure and the determination value, the stop of the special symbol in each display area The mode becomes the combination mode of losing, that is, the result mode of the variable display game becomes the missing mode, and the variable display game ends. After that, if there is no special figure starting memory, the state shifts to a customer waiting state (step S0), and if there is a special figure starting memory, the state shifts to the next varying state of the variable display game (step S1).

On the other hand, when it is determined that the big hit is obtained by comparing the random number value for judging big hits of the special figure with the judgment value, the result mode of the variable display game becomes the special display mode, That is, the special symbol stop mode in each set display area is a specific combination mode (for example, "1,
"1,1" and the like), and transitions to a special game state called a big hit game state (step S2).

This jackpot game state (special game state),
The opening / closing door 5a of the special variation winning device 5 has a predetermined time (for example,
A cycle of opening and closing for 29.5 seconds) is defined as one round, and during each round, a predetermined round (for example, 15 rounds) is provided on the condition that the game ball is detected by the continuous sensor 5d in the continuous winning area in the special winning opening 5b. ) Is a game that continues. However, during each round, when a predetermined number (eg, 10) of game balls are won in the special winning opening 5b, the round is finished at that point. During each round, the number of winnings to the special winning opening 5b is detected by the count sensor 5c and is R
It is stored in the AM 21b, and when the predetermined number is reached, the opening / closing door 5a
Is closed and the special game state of the round ends.

When this big hit game state ends, if there is no special figure starting memory, the state of waiting for the customer (step S0)
If there is a special figure starting memory, the flow shifts to the next variation display game variation state (step S1).

Next, the game control device 20 and the display control device 4
The display mode of the variable display game performed with 0 will be specifically described with reference to the time chart of FIG. 4 and the image diagrams of FIGS.

The state of waiting for customers in FIG. 3 described above (step S
In 0), a demonstration display for attracting customers is displayed, or a special symbol is displayed in a stopped state in each of normal display areas described later. In this state, when the game ball hit into the game area 1a wins the normal variable winning device 9, the variable display game of the special figure is started,
The above-described change state (step S1) of FIG. 3 is entered (T1 of FIG. 4).

In the changing state of this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 5, the display control device (display control means) 4 is used.
By the identification symbol control means provided in 0, a plurality of display regions 10a, 10b, 10c arranged in the left-right direction (here, three left, middle, and right) are set in the display unit 4g of the variable display device 4a. The display areas 10a, 10b, 10c
In each of the above, a variable display game in which a series of special symbols A, B, and C can be variably displayed in various variable display modes is performed. Further, in this embodiment, by the stage image control means provided in the display control device (display control means) 40, an appropriate amount is provided behind the special symbol (identification symbol) and in front of the special symbol (identification symbol). The stage image 700 is displayed. Here, as a sea stage image 701 showing the state of the sea, an image composed of ships, waves, etc. is displayed.

Here, the plurality of special symbols displayed in the left display area 10a are collectively referred to as A and the middle display area 10b.
The plurality of special symbols displayed in 1 are collectively referred to as B, and the plurality of special symbols displayed in the right display area 10c are collectively referred to as C.

Here, as shown in FIG. 5, first, by the symbol standby control means included in the identification symbol control means, the identification symbols A, B and C are temporarily stopped and displayed (temporarily stopped state in which shaking is displayed. To). Then, as shown in FIG. 6, the identification symbols A, B, and C are moved to a predetermined position (here, the upper side of the screen), and the identification symbols A, B, and C are in a non-variable state (not yet a fixed stop). Is displayed in a temporary stop state in which a small shaking display is displayed).
In this embodiment, when the identification symbols A, B, C are made to stand by at the predetermined position, the identification symbols A, B,
It is designed to reduce C. By doing so, the switching state of the stage image 700 can be notified more clearly.

Here, when there is no stage image switching by the stage image switching means included in the stage image control means ((a) of FIG. 4), as shown in FIG. After that, the predetermined result mode is displayed.

On the other hand, when the sea stage image 701 is switched to another stage image by the stage image switching means included in the stage image control means ((b) of FIG. 4), as shown in FIG. , Sea stage image 70
In No. 1, the ship moves toward the bottom of the screen and the waves move to the left and right of the screen, and disappears from the display screen 4g. Then, the stage image switching means selects any one of the plurality of predetermined stage images 700 to switch the stage image 700. Here, as the torii stage image 702, the one in which the state of the shrine is drawn is selected, and as shown in FIG. 9, the torii stage image 702 appears from the upper part of the screen instead of the sea stage image 701.

Then, as shown in FIG. 10, when the torii stage image 702 completely appears, here, as shown in FIG. 11, the identification symbols A, B, and C are set for each stage image from a predetermined position. Move to a specific position again. Here, the relocation destination (specific position) is that the left and right identification symbols A and C are located on the lower side of the screen, and the middle identification symbol B is located on the upper side of the screen. In addition, at that time, the reduced identification patterns A, B,
It is designed to restore C to its original size. The sizes of the identification symbols A, B, and C may be changed not only to the original size but also to different sizes.

After that, the identification symbols A, B and C moved to the specific position start variable display. The identification symbol control means includes variable display control means capable of changing the variable display aspect of the identification symbols A, B, C to different variable display aspects in accordance with the switching of the stage image 700, and this embodiment In, it is possible to set a plurality of types of variable display modes that correspond to each of the predetermined stage images 700 on a one-to-one basis. Here, since the stage image 700 becomes the torii stage image 702, the variable display mode in which the identification symbols A, B, and C are switched on the spot, specifically, the identification symbols A and B as shown in FIG. , C is a horizontal line L drawn substantially vertically, and the identification patterns A, B, and C are bent from top to bottom, and the next identification patterns A, B, and C appear in the portions that appear after the folding. The variable display is performed in the variable display mode.

The stage image 700 that can be switched
As another example, there is a sky stage image 703 showing the state of the sky as shown in FIG. In this case, after the sea stage image 701 disappears from the display screen 4g as shown in FIG. 8, the torii stage image 702 of the shrine shown in FIG. 9 appears instead of the sky as shown in FIG. The stage image 703 appears. Then, when the sky stage image 703 completely appears, as shown in FIG. 14, the symbol standby control means moves the identification symbols A, B, C to a specific position. Here, the specific positions are such that the left and right identification symbols A and C are near the center of the screen, and the middle identification symbol B is on the upper side of the screen. Also at this time, the reduced identification patterns A, B, C are returned to their original sizes.

Then, the variable display of the identification symbols A, B, C is started. At this time, the identification pattern A, B, C on the spot
Changes to the display mode, and the sky stage image 7
The variable display is performed in the variable display mode corresponding to 03. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 15, the identification symbols A, B, C are rotated about a vertical line I drawn at the substantially center of the identification symbols A, B, C in the left-right direction, and this rotation is performed. Identification pattern A, B, C
The next identification patterns A, B, C appearing on the back surface of the are displayed.

Here, if the stage image switching means switches the stage image at a high rate (high frequency rate) when the result of the variable display game is a big hit,
By switching the stage images, the player's expectation can be increased, and the expectation can also be increased by changing the variable display mode of the identification symbol. Moreover, it is possible to more clearly inform the change in expression that can increase the expectation of the player.

Further, when the result of the variable display game is a big hit and the stage images are switched, the selection ratio of each stage image is set to be different, for example, the selection ratio of the sky stage image is higher than that of the torii stage image. Then, the player's expectation can be changed according to the type of the switched stage image, and the interest can be improved.

Further, in this embodiment, the symbol standby control means makes the identification symbol stand by even when the stage image switching means does not switch the stage image, so that even if the identification symbol stands by at the predetermined position, the stage There are times when the images are switched and times when they are not switched, and it is not known until immediately before the switching whether or not the stage images are switched, and it is possible to give the player a sense of expectation for a longer time.

As in this embodiment, it is not always necessary to wait for the identification symbol at the beginning of the variable display game, and the identification symbol may be waited after scrolling for a predetermined time. Alternatively, the identification symbol may be waited only when the stage images are switched.

The identification symbol control means, the identification symbol A,
B and C are configured to include predetermined character symbols A1, B1 and C1, and when the symbol standby control means makes the identification symbols A, B and C stand by, the character symbols A1, B1 and You may make it change C1 into a special expression. For example, as shown in FIGS. 16 to 19, the character standby control means causes the character symbols A1, B1, C1 to be displayed.
Characters A1, B1 and C1 until the stage image 700 is switched by the stage image switching means (FIGS. 17 to 19) after moving to a predetermined position (FIG. 16).
The expression of the character in may be a surprised face.
By doing this, it is possible that the stage images may be switched.
It is possible to give notification by means of the expression of which the interest is enhanced by the display of 1.

As described above, according to the gaming machine of this embodiment, the stage images can be switched after the start of the variable display game, and the variable display mode of the identification symbol is also changed according to the switching of the stage images. Since various changes can be made, the variable display game can be diversified, and the stage and the variable display mode can be matched more and the interest can be improved.

Further, since the identification pattern is moved to a predetermined position and made to stand by until the switching of the stage images is completed, it is possible to more clearly recognize that the stage images are switched. In particular, if the identification pattern is moved to a position avoiding the central portion of the display unit of the variable display device, the stage images can be smoothly switched without complicating the expression even during the variable display game.

Moreover, since the identification pattern is kept unchanged while waiting at the predetermined position, even if the stage images are switched thereafter, there is no discomfort and the variable display mode corresponding to the stage image is displayed. Can be moved to. That is, waiting the identification symbol is effective for both the switching of the stage image and the shift to the variable display mode that changes variously.

Further, after the stage images are switched by the stage image switching means, the identification pattern which the pattern standby control means stands by at a predetermined position is placed at a specific position set according to the switched stage image. Since it is moved again and the variable display control means performs the variable display at the specific position in the variable display mode corresponding to the stage image,
Depending on the switching of the stage image, in addition to the variable display mode of the identification symbol, even when the location where the identification symbol is variably displayed is changed, the display can be efficiently performed without any discomfort.

Further, the stage image switching means is designed to switch the stage images at a high rate when the result of the variable display game is a big hit, so that the player can expect the player's expectation by switching the stage images. Further, it is possible to increase the expectation by changing the variable display mode of the identification symbol. Moreover, it is possible to more clearly inform the change in expression that can increase the expectation of the player.

Further, the symbol standby control means may make the identification symbol stand by even when the stage image switching means does not switch the stage image, so that the stage image is switched even when the identification symbol stands by at a predetermined position. Sometimes it is not possible to switch, and sometimes it is not possible to switch, and it is not known until just before switching whether the stage image is switched,
The player can be expected.

Further, the stage image switching means prepares a plurality of stage images which can be switched in advance, and the variable display control means makes a one-to-one correspondence with each of the plurality of stage images.
Since it is possible to set a plurality of types of variable display modes corresponding to the above, the relationship between the stage image and the variable display mode can be closer, and the expression can be more diversified and the interest can be improved. Moreover, it is possible to display the switching of the stage images and the transition to the variable display mode according to the switching without any discomfort even if the expression is variously changed.

Further, when the stage image control means does not switch the stage image, the variable display control means scrolls the variable display of the identification symbol, and the stage image switching means sets the stage image to a predetermined one. When switching to the stage image, the variable display of the identification symbol is performed in the variable display mode in which the identification symbol is switched on the spot, so that the transition from the scroll to the variable display mode in which the identification symbol is switched on the spot is performed. Even by switching the stage image, the identification pattern is made to stand by, so that it can be performed smoothly without any discomfort.

Further, since the symbol standby control means reduces the identification symbol when the identification symbol is on standby, it is possible to more clearly inform the switching state of the stage image.

Further, the identification symbol control means, the identification symbol,
With a configuration including a predetermined character design, when the design standby control means is waiting for the identification design, since the character design is changed to a special expression, the stage image may be switched. It is possible to notify that there is something with a more interesting expression on the display of the character pattern.

The present invention is not limited to the pachinko game machine of the above-mentioned embodiment, and for example, other ball game machines such as pachinko game machines, arrangement ball game machines, sparrow ball game machines, and pachislot machines. It can also be applied to gaming machines such as slot machines. That is, in the case of a pachi-slot, a drum reel type variable display device generally performs variable display, but in this case, instead of the drum reel, another display device (for example, a liquid crystal display device, a cathode ray tube). Display device). Further, a display device may be provided in addition to the drum reel type variable display device, and the variable display game may be displayed on the other display device. Further, it should be considered that the embodiments disclosed this time are exemplifications in all points and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is shown not by the above description but by the claims, and is intended to include meanings equivalent to the claims and all modifications within the scope.

[0082]

According to the gaming machine of the first aspect of the present invention, the stage image can be switched after the start of the variable display game, and the variable display mode of the identification symbol according to the switching of the stage image. Since it is possible to change variously, it is possible to diversify the variable display game and to match the stage and the variable display mode more, thereby improving the interest. Further, since the identification pattern is moved to a predetermined position and made to stand by until the switching of the stage images is completed, it is possible to more clearly recognize that the stage images are switched. In particular, if the identification pattern is moved to a position avoiding the central portion of the display unit of the variable display device, the stage images can be smoothly switched without complicating the expression even during the variable display game. Moreover, while waiting at the predetermined position, the identification pattern is in a non-variable state, and therefore, no matter how the stage images are switched, the display mode is changed to the variable display mode according to the stage image without any discomfort. be able to. That is, waiting the identification symbol is effective for both the switching of the stage image and the shift to the variable display mode that changes variously.

According to the gaming machine of the second aspect of the present invention, after the stage images are switched by the stage image switching means, the symbol standby control means can switch the identification symbol which is made to stand by at a predetermined position. It is moved again to the specific position set according to the stage image, and the variable display control means performs the variable display at the specific position in the variable display mode corresponding to the stage image. Thus, in addition to the variable display mode of the identification symbol, even when the location where the identification symbol is variably displayed is changed, the display can be efficiently performed without any discomfort.

According to the gaming machine of the third aspect, the stage image switching means switches the stage images at a high rate when the result of the variable display game is a big hit. By switching, the player's expectation can be increased, and the expectation can also be increased by changing the variable display mode of the identification symbol. Moreover, it is possible to more clearly inform the change in expression that can increase the expectation of the player.

According to the gaming machine of the fourth aspect of the present invention, the symbol standby control means may cause the identification symbol to stand by even when the stage image switching means does not switch the stage image. Even when waiting at a predetermined position, there are times when the stage image can be switched and when it cannot be switched, and it is not known until immediately before switching whether or not there is a stage image switching, and the player has a sense of expectation for a longer time. Can be made.

According to the gaming machine of the fifth aspect of the invention, the stage image switching means prepares a plurality of switchable stage images in advance, and the variable display control means,
Since it is possible to set a plurality of types of variable display modes that correspond to each of the plurality of stage images on a one-to-one basis, the relationship between the stage images and the variable display modes becomes closer and the expression becomes more versatile. It is possible to improve the fun and interest. Moreover, it is possible to display the switching of the stage images and the transition to the variable display mode according to the switching without any discomfort even if the expression is variously changed.

According to the gaming machine of the sixth aspect, the variable display control means performs variable display of the identification symbol by scrolling when the stage image control means does not switch the stage images. When the stage image switching means switches the stage image to a predetermined stage image, the variable display of the identification symbol is performed in the variable display mode in which the identification symbol is switched on the spot, so that the identification is performed on the spot from the scroll. Even for the transition to the variable display mode in which the symbols are switched, by making the identification symbol stand by at the time of switching the stage image, it can be smoothly performed without any discomfort.

According to the gaming machine of the seventh aspect of the present invention, the symbol standby control means reduces the identification symbol when the identification symbol is put on standby, so that the switching state of the stage image is more clear. Can be informed.

According to the gaming machine of the eighth aspect of the present invention, the identification symbol control means, the identification symbol is configured to include a predetermined character symbol, when the symbol standby control means is waiting for the identification symbol In addition, since the character design is changed to a special expression, it is possible to notify that the stage image may be switched by the expression having a more interesting appearance on the display of the character design.

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a front view showing a game board of a pachinko game machine exemplified as a game machine according to the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a main control block diagram of a game control device and a display control device.

FIG. 3 is a game state transition diagram of the gaming machine.

FIG. 4 is a time chart regarding switching of stage images in a variable display game.

FIG. 5 is a first image diagram showing an example of a variable display game on a variable display device.

FIG. 6 is a second image view thereof.

FIG. 7 is a third image view thereof.

FIG. 8 is a fourth image view thereof.

FIG. 9 is a fifth image view thereof.

FIG. 10 is a sixth image view thereof.

FIG. 11 is a seventh image view thereof.

FIG. 12 is an eighth image diagram thereof.

FIG. 13 is a ninth image view thereof.

FIG. 14 is a tenth image view thereof.

FIG. 15 is an eleventh image diagram thereof.

FIG. 16 is a first image diagram showing another example of the variable display game.

FIG. 17 is a second image view thereof.

FIG. 18 is a third image view thereof.

FIG. 19 is a fourth image view thereof.

[Explanation of symbols]

1 game board 4a variable display device 20 game control device 40 display control device (display control means, stage image control means, identification symbol control means, stage image switching means, variable display control means, symbol standby control means) 700, 701, 702 , 703 Stage images A, B, C Identification patterns A1, B1, C1 Character patterns

Claims (8)

[Claims] 1. A gaming machine provided with a variable display device capable of displaying a variable display game with a plurality of identification symbols, and display control means for performing display control of the variable display device, wherein the display control means is a variable The stage image control means for controlling the display of the stage image showing the stage where the display game is played, and the identification symbol control means for controlling the identification symbol in the variable display game are provided, and the stage image control means is the variable display. A stage image switching unit that switches the stage image after the start of the game is included, and the identification symbol control unit changes the mode of variable display of the identification symbol to a different variable display mode according to the switching of the stage image by the stage image switching unit. When the variable display control means that can be controlled and the stage image switching means switch the stage images, Gaming machine, characterized in that it comprises a symbol standby control means for waiting the identification symbols to move the identification symbols which are displayed in the predetermined position until switched this stage image remains free variation state, a. 2. After the stage images have been switched by the stage image switching means, the symbol waiting control means sets an identification symbol which has been made to stand by at the predetermined position in accordance with the switched stage image. Move it to a specific position again,
2. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein at the specific position, the variable display control means controls to perform a variable display in a variable display mode corresponding to the stage image. 3. The game machine according to claim 1, wherein the stage image switching means switches the stage image at a high rate when the result of the variable display game is a big hit. . 4. The design standby control means makes the identification design stand by even when the stage image switching means does not switch the stage image. The game machine described. 5. The stage image switching means selects any one of a plurality of predetermined stage images to switch the stage images, and the variable display control means controls the plurality of stage images. The gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein a plurality of types of variable display modes corresponding to each stage image in a one-to-one correspondence can be set. 6. The variable display control means, when the stage image control means does not switch the stage images,
It is assumed that the variable display of the identification pattern is scrolled,
When the stage image switching means switches the stage image to a predetermined stage image, the variable display of the identification symbol is performed in a variable display mode in which the identification symbol is switched on the spot. The gaming machine according to any one of 5. 7. The game machine according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the symbol standby control means reduces the identification symbol when the identification symbol is on standby. 8. The identification symbol control means is configured such that the identification symbol includes a predetermined character symbol, and when the symbol standby control means waits for the identification symbol, the character symbol is specially expressed. The game machine according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the game machine is changed to.