JP2004216188A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To enable the clear display of the figures on the reels and the performance images to be shown on the front display means disposed in front of the reels. <P>SOLUTION: The game machine has a variable display means for variably displaying a plurality of figures, an internal winning combination decision means for determining the internal win combinations, a plurality of operation means for stopping the variable display by the variable display means, a stop control means which controls to stop the variable display operation of the variable display means based on the decision results of the internal winning combination decision means and the operation of the operation means, a game medium put-out means which puts out the game media when the stop aspect of the variable display means stopped by the stop control means is as prescribed and the front display means which is disposed in front of the variable display means to make the figures of the variable display means viewed through. The front display means is provided with a backlight while casting the backlight against the figures of the variable display means. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2004,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to a slot machine, a pachinko machine, and other gaming machines provided with variable display means for variably displaying symbols required for a game and control means such as a microcomputer for controlling the variable display.

  2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, as this type of gaming machine, for example, a slot machine provided with a stopping means, a so-called pachislot gaming machine has been known. FIG. 38 shows a general pachislot gaming machine X.

  In this pachislot gaming machine X, a plurality of three rotating reels 104 to 106 for variably displaying a plurality of symbols are arranged in display windows 101 to 103 provided on a front panel 100, and the rotating reels 104 to 106 are stopped. It has a variable display device having a configuration in which reel stop buttons 107 to 109 are provided. When a predetermined combination of symbols is prepared by the variable display device, a profit is given to the player.

  Also, on the front side of the front panel 100, one medal in the middle row, which is valid by inserting one medal, for nine symbols consisting of 3 columns × 3 rows displayed through the display windows 101 to 103. Pay line 111 for two medals, two pay lines 112a and 112b for two medals additionally activated when two medals are inserted, and a pay line 113a for three medals additionally activated when three medals are inserted. 113b are printed respectively. In the figure, reference numeral 114 denotes a slot for a game medium (medals or coins); and 115, a start lever for starting a game. In addition, in the variable display device, in addition to the mechanical configuration using the rotating reels 104 to 106, there is also a device in which a symbol can be variable displayed on a liquid crystal screen or the like.

  As a game method, first, a game medium is inserted into the insertion port 114 and started. Then, in response to the operation of the start lever 115 by the player, the control means drives and controls the variable display device to rotate the reels 104 to 106 so that the symbols are displayed in a variable manner.

  For the changed symbols, the rotation of each of the reels 104 to 106 is sequentially stopped automatically after a predetermined time, or by a stop operation of the reel stop buttons 107 to 109 by the player. At this time, if the symbols of the reels 104 to 106 appearing in the display windows 101 to 103 have a specific combination (winning symbol), the player is paid out of the game medium to give a profit. .

  Such a pachislot gaming machine X has a plurality of types of winning modes. In particular, when a predetermined winning combination is achieved, there is a case in which a gaming state having better conditions than a normal state is provided for a predetermined period without ending one payout of medals. As such a prize combination, a prize combination (hereinafter, referred to as a “Big Bonus”, hereinafter referred to as “BB”) capable of performing a game that gives a relatively large profit to the player a predetermined number of times, and a relatively small profit to the player. There is a winning combination (hereinafter, referred to as "regular bonus", hereinafter referred to as "RB") in which a given game can be performed a predetermined number of times.

  In the pachislot gaming machine X, a combination of symbols stopped and displayed along an activated line (hereinafter, referred to as an "effective line") among the pay lines 111 to 113 is determined by an internal lottery process (hereinafter, " This is determined based on the result of the lottery and the timing of the stop operation of the reel stop buttons 107 to 109 by the player. That is, in order for a prize in which medals, coins, etc. are paid out to be established, a prize is won by the above-described internal lottery process (hereinafter referred to as “internal prize”), and the internally-prized prize (hereinafter “internal”) The player is required to perform a stop operation at a timing at which the symbol combination indicating the winning combination of "winning combination") can be stopped on the activated line.

  That is, no matter how much the internal winning, no prize can be established if the timing of the stop operation of the player is bad, so that a technique for performing the stop operation in a timely manner is required (the technical intervention called "eye-pressing"). Game machines are the mainstream at present.

  In such a gaming machine, a technique has recently been proposed in which the front panel 100 is devised to display the above-mentioned prize lines 111 to 113 and symbols in order to enhance a gaming property or to make it easier to determine a prize. .

For example, in the gaming machine described in Patent Literature 1, light-transmissive information including a matrix display portion that can be displayed in a dot pattern through dots in a plurality of rows and columns on the back or near the back of a front panel. A display panel is provided, and the information display panel is constituted by a transparent EL (electroluminescence) panel so that light-transmissive characters and patterns are displayed in a dot pattern on the information display panel.
JP-A-2000-350805

However, a gaming machine having the above-mentioned information display panel (Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2000-32000)
Japanese Patent No. 50805) enables a variety of displays including effect images and the like, but since the panel is transparent, the symbols on each reel are always visible through the dot pattern. However, there is also a problem that the symbols on each reel are apt to be displayed halfway, making it difficult to recognize any of them.

In view of the above, an object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine capable of clearly displaying both a reel symbol and an effect image displayed on a front display unit provided in front of the reel.

That is, in the present invention according to claim 1, a variable display means for variably displaying a plurality of symbols, an internal winning combination determining means for determining an internal winning combination, and a plurality of variable display means for stopping the variable display of the variable display means. Operating means, stop control means for stopping and controlling the variable display operation of the variable display means based on the result of the determination of the internal winning combination determining means and the operation of the operating means, and the variable display stopped by the stop control means When the stop mode of the means is a predetermined stop mode, a game medium payout means for paying out game media, and a front display means provided in front of the variable display means and capable of seeing through a symbol of the variable display means, In the gaming machine provided with a backlight, the front display means is provided with a backlight, and the backlight is illuminated on the symbol of the variable display means.

In the present invention according to claim 2, the backlight is disposed between the front display means and the variable display means.

Further, in the present invention according to claim 3, the front display means is configured to perform a predetermined display also around the variable display means.

  According to the present invention, a backlight is provided on the front display means which is provided in front of the variation display means and can see through the design of the variation display means, and the backlight is configured to irradiate the design of the variation display means. Therefore, it is possible to clearly display both the symbol of the variable display means and the effect image displayed on the front display means provided in front of the variable display means, and the effect display by the front display means is only easy to see. In addition, the symbol of the variable display means is easy to see, and the player can enjoy the game.

  The present invention is a variable display means for variably displaying a plurality of symbols, a front display means provided in front of the variable display means and capable of seeing through the symbols of the variable display means, and an internal winning combination determining means for determining an internal winning combination. A plurality of operation means for stopping the fluctuation display of the fluctuation display means; and a stop control of the fluctuation display operation of the fluctuation display means based on the determination result of the internal winning combination determination means and the operation of the operation means. The gaming machine having stop control means for performing a payout of game media when the stop state of the variable display means stopped by the stop control means is a predetermined stop state. A backlight is provided on the display means, and the backlight is configured to irradiate the symbol of the variable display means.

  Thus, the backlight irradiates not only the front display means but also the symbol of the variable display means, and both the symbol of the variable display means and the effect image displayed on the front display means provided in front of the variable display means are displayed. Can be clearly displayed, and not only the effect display by the front display means becomes easy to see, but also the pattern of the variable display means becomes easy to see, so that the player can enjoy the game.

  In particular, when the backlight is provided between the front display means and the variable display means, the space inside the gaming machine can be effectively used as a place for installing the backlight, and the size of the gaming machine can be increased. The backlight can be provided inside the gaming machine without increasing the size.

  Further, when the front display means can perform a predetermined display also around the fluctuation display means, various lamps and the like provided on the front panel in the conventional gaming machine are displayed on the front display means. Accordingly, it is not necessary to provide various lamps on the front panel, the number of components of the gaming machine can be reduced, and the manufacturing cost of the gaming machine can be reduced.

  Hereinafter, the gaming machine according to the present embodiment will be described more specifically with reference to the drawings.

  FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an external appearance of a gaming machine 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 2 is a front view of the gaming machine 1 similarly.

  The gaming machine 1 is a so-called "pachi-slot machine" provided with three rotating reels that variably display symbols, and includes information on a game value given or given to a player in addition to coins, medals or tokens. It is possible to play a game using a game medium such as a card in which is stored, but the following description will be made assuming that a medal is used.

  A panel display unit 5 which is a liquid crystal display device is provided on a front surface of a cabinet 2 forming the whole of the gaming machine 1.

  Also, inside the cabinet 2, three rotating reels 3L, 3C, 3R, each of which has a symbol row composed of a plurality of types of symbols on its outer peripheral surface, are rotatably provided in a horizontal row, and are displayed in a variable manner. Means. The symbols on each reel can be observed through display windows 4L, 4C, and 4R viewed through the panel display unit 5. Each reel rotates at a constant speed (for example, 80 rotations / minute).

  Although the configuration of the panel display unit 5 will be described in detail later, a display screen 5a made of liquid crystal that can see through the rotating reels 3L, 3C, and 3R is provided over the entire surface to constitute a front display unit. , The components described below appear in appearance.

  That is, vertically long rectangular display windows 4L, 4C, and 4R can be seen at the center of the display screen 5a, and these display windows 4L, 4C, and 4R have horizontal lines such as a center line 8a, a top line 8b, and a bottom line as pay lines. 8c, a cross-down line 8d and a cross-up line 8e are obliquely visible. One or three of these winning lines are provided by operating a 1-BET switch 11, a 2-BET switch 12, and a maximum -BET switch 13 described later, or by inserting medals into the medal slot 22, respectively. Five are activated. Which winning line is activated is indicated by the lighting of the line and the lighting of BET lamps 9a, 9b, 9c described below.

  On the left side of the display windows 4L, 4C, 4R, a 1-BET lamp 9a, a 2-BET lamp 9b, a maximum BET lamp 9c, and a game medal storage number display section 19 are provided. The 1-BET lamp 9a, the 2-BET lamp 9b, and the maximum BET lamp 9c are lit and displayed according to the number of medals bet for performing one game (hereinafter, referred to as "BET number"). Here, in the present embodiment, one game ends when all reels stop or when payout of game media is performed, when game media are paid out. The 1-BET lamp 9a is displayed when the number of BETs is "1" and one pay line is activated. The 2-BET lamp 9b is lit when the number of BETs is "2" and three pay lines are activated. The maximum BET lamp 9c is displayed when the number of BETs is "3" and all (5) pay lines are activated. Further, the game start display lamp 25 provided below the BET lamps 9a, 9b, 9c is lit when at least one line is activated. Further, the game medal storage number display section 19 displays the number of stored medals.

  On the right side of the display windows 4L, 4C, 4R, a WIN lamp 17, a payout display section 18, and a game medal insertion lamp 24 are provided. The WIN lamp 17 is lit at a predetermined probability when the BB or RB is internally won, and is also lit when a BB or RB winning is achieved. The payout display section 18 is composed of 7-segment LEDs, and displays the number of medals paid out when a winning is established. The game medal insertion lamp 24 flashes when game medal insertion can be accepted.

  On the upper right side of the display screen 5a, a accessory actuation number display section 20 is provided. The accessory actuation number display section 20 displays the number of possible RB games and the number of possible RB game winnings, which will be described later.

  At the upper left position of the display screen 5a, a game stop display 31, a replay display 32, an RB operation display 33, and a BB operation display 34 are provided in a row. The game stop display 31 is illuminated when the time from the previous rotation of the torso to the current rotation of the torso is less than a predetermined time (4.1 seconds in the present embodiment). The replay indicator 32 is lit when a replay is activated. The RB operation indicator 33 is lit during the RB operation, and the BB operation indicator 34 is lit during the BB operation.

  In addition, the display screen 5a described above also shows the "stop order" necessary to realize the winning when the internal win of the "small part of the bell" in the "stop operation assistance period" described later. Is displayed.

  Below the display windows 4L, 4C, and 4R seen through the display screen 5a, a pedestal portion 10 in a horizontal plane is formed, and between the pedestal portion 10 and the display windows 4L, 4C, and 4R, information on the gaming machine 1 and the like are provided. A marked portion 2a to be marked is provided.

  Further, a medal insertion slot 22 is provided on the right side of the marker 2a, and a 1-BET switch 11, a 2-BET switch 12, and a maximum BET switch 13 are provided at a lower left position of the marker 2a. A cross button 26, a circle button 27, and a cross button 28 are provided at the upper left position of the marker 2a.

  The 1-BET switch 11 bets one of the medals credited by one push operation in the game, and the 2-BET switch 12 of the medals credited by one push operation. Two bets are placed on the game, and the maximum BET switch 13 bets the maximum number of medals that can be bet on one game by one push operation. By operating these BET switches, a predetermined payline is activated as described above.

  By operating the cross button 26, the O button 27, and the X button 28, the display screen 5a can be switched and input.

  On the left side of the front surface of the pedestal section 10, there is provided a stored medal settlement switch 14 for switching the credit / payout of medals obtained by the player with a push button operation. By switching the stored medal settlement switch 14, medals are paid out from the game medal payout port 15 at the lower front, and the paid out medals are stored in the game medal receiving section 16. On the right side of the stored medal settlement switch 14, a start lever 6 for rotating the reel by the operation of the player and starting the variation display of the symbols in the display windows 4L, 4C, 4R (starting the game) is predetermined. It is attached so that it can rotate freely within the angle range.

  A door opening / closing / unlocking device 29 is provided on the right side of the front surface of the pedestal portion 10. The door opening / closing and unlocking device 29 is opened and closed by turning the door clockwise using a predetermined key. And turn counterclockwise to release the batting.

  Speakers 21L and 21R are provided on the left and right above the cabinet 2, and between the two speakers 21L and 21R, a payout table panel 23 for displaying a combination of winning symbols and a payout number of medals is provided. ing. Three stop buttons 7L, 7C, 7R for stopping rotation of the three rotating reels 3L, 3C, 3R are provided at the center of the front part of the pedestal part 10 and below the marker part 2a. I have.

  As shown in FIG. 35, a panel display unit 5 is attached to the front opening 2b of the cabinet 2 so as to face from the back side of the front opening 2b, and a portion exposed from the cabinet 2 forms a display screen 5a. ing. 2c and 2c 'are upper and lower panel mounting bosses, and 2d is a mounting screw.

  As shown in FIG. 36, the panel display section 5 is composed of a multilayer panel body 5 'held by a rectangular frame-shaped frame 505.

  Then, the multilayer panel body 5 'has a predetermined thickness from the outermost side (frontmost side), which forms part of the transparent protective glass 500, the liquid crystal panel 501, and the backlight structure substantially constituting the front display means. It has a multi-layer structure including a light guide plate 503 made of an acrylic material and a diffusion plate 504 made of a plastic film adhered to the back side of the light guide plate 503. Note that the surface of the diffusion plate 504 is subjected to unevenness processing so that light is diffusely reflected and diffused. Further, a transparent acrylic plate may be used instead of the protective glass 500.

  Here, as shown in FIG. 37, the liquid crystal panel 501 was formed on the rotating reels 3L, 3C, and 3R by forming an opening 502 at a portion where the symbols formed on the rotating reels 3L, 3C, and 3R could be seen through. The design may be such that the design can be seen through without the display at the portion where the design can be seen through (opening 502).

  In addition, a backlight is provided between the front display means and the variable display means, and the backlight is illuminated on a symbol of the variable display means. That is, between the multi-layer panel body 5 'and the rotating reels 3L, 3C, 3R and below the multi-layer panel body 5', it functions as a backlight of the liquid crystal panel 501, and also has a rotating reel 3L, 3C. And a cold cathode tube 2e capable of irradiating a 3R pattern.

  Then, the cold cathode tube 2e is provided at the lower end of the acrylic plate 504, and a cutout portion 505a for light transmission is formed in the frame 505, so that light is transmitted through the entire end of the acrylic plate 504, In addition, the light can be diffused forward by the reflection plate 504, and functions as a backlight between the liquid crystal panel 501 and the liquid crystal shutter 502.

  Further, a part of the light of the cold cathode tube 2e irradiates the rotating reels 3L, 3C, 3R disposed behind the multilayer panel body 5 '. In the drawing, reference numeral 2f denotes a reflection cover disposed so as to include the cold cathode tube 2e, which is formed in a substantially U-shape in cross section, and fastened together with the multilayer panel body 5 'to the lower panel mounting boss 2c'. Have been.

  Thus, in the present embodiment, a backlight is provided in the front display means, and the backlight is configured to irradiate the pattern of the variable display means. The pattern of the variation display means is also illuminated, and both the symbol of the variation display means and the effect image displayed on the front display means provided in front of the variation display means can be clearly displayed, and the front display means Not only is it easier to see the effect display, but also the pattern of the variable display means is easier to see, so that the player can enjoy the game.

  In particular, when the backlight is provided between the front display means and the variable display means, the space inside the gaming machine can be effectively used as a place for installing the backlight, and the size of the gaming machine can be increased. The backlight can be provided inside the gaming machine without increasing the size.

  In addition, a predetermined display (various lamp display (1-BET lamp 9a, 2-BET lamp 9b, maximum BET lamp 9c, WIN lamp 17)) and various display units (dispensing) are also provided around the fluctuation display means on the front display means. When the display unit 18, the display number of the game medal storage number display unit 19, and the display of the number of times of the operation of the accessory 20) can be performed, various lamps and the like (various lamps) provided on the front panel of the conventional game machine are provided. Display (1-BET lamp 9a, 2-BET lamp 9b, maximum BET lamp 9c, WIN lamp 17), various display units (payout display unit 18, game medal storage number display unit 19, number-of-actual-items operation display unit 20) Can be displayed on the front display means, which eliminates the need to provide various lamps on the front panel, and reduces the number of components of the gaming machine. It can, it is possible to reduce the manufacturing cost of the gaming machine.

  The gaming machine 1 is configured as described above. Hereinafter, three stop buttons for operating the start lever 6 to rotate the three reels 3L, 3C, and 3R, and stopping the rotation respectively. The operation of 7L, 7C, 7R will be described.

  Here, the stop operation performed when all the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R are rotating is a "first stop operation", and the next stop operation is a "second stop operation" and a "second stop operation". The stop operation performed after is referred to as “third stop operation”. Operating the left stop button 7L as "first stop operation" is referred to as "forward push". Operating the center stop button 7C as "first stop operation" is referred to as "middle press". Operating the right stop button 7R as “first stop operation” is referred to as “reverse push”.

  Since the gaming machine 1 is provided with three stop buttons 7L, 7C, 7R, the order of these operations is "six types". Therefore, these operation orders are distinguished as follows. The left stop button 7L is abbreviated as "left", the center stop button 7C is abbreviated as "middle", and the right stop button 7R is abbreviated as "right". When indicating the stop order, the stop buttons 7L, 7C, and 7R are arranged from the left in the order in which the stop operation was performed. For example, when the left stop button 7L is operated as “first stop operation”, the center stop button 7C is operated as “second stop operation”, and the right stop button 7R is operated as “third stop operation”, the stop order is changed to “ Left middle right ". Note that the stop order of the embodiment includes “six types” of “left center right”, “middle left and right”, “middle left and right”, “middle right left”, “right middle left” and “right middle left”.

  FIG. 5 shows a symbol row in which a plurality of 21 types of symbols represented on each of the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R are arranged. Each of the symbols is assigned a code number of “00” to “20” and stored in the ROM 32 described later as a data table. On each of the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R, a symbol composed of symbols of "blue 7", "red 7", "BAR", "bell", "plum", "Replay", and "cherry". The columns are represented. Each of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R is driven to rotate so that the symbol row moves in the direction of the arrow.

  The table shown in FIG. 6 shows winning combinations and payout numbers corresponding to winning symbol combinations in each gaming state.

  The game state includes a general game state (this state is also expressed as “general game”), a general game state during BB (this state is also expressed as “BB operation”), and an RB game state ( This state is also referred to as “under RB operation”). Normally, the normal game state is expressed as "during normal game", the normal game state during BB is expressed as "BB operation", and the RB game state is expressed as "RB operation".

  In addition, although the general gaming state may be further classified depending on whether or not the BB or RB has been internally won, since the winning combinations that may be internally won are the same, the classification in this table is shown in the table. Are classified into three states.

  The types of winning combinations that are likely to be internally won are determined by a so-called probability lottery table (the probability lottery table will be described later), and the probability lottery table is provided for each game state. That is, in the games in the same gaming state, the types of winning combinations that may be internally won are the same.

  As shown in FIG. 6, when "blue 7-blue 7-blue 7" or "red 7-red 7-red 7" is arranged along the activated line in the general game state, a BB winning is established. Then, 15 medals are paid out, and the game state of the next game becomes “BB game state”.

  The “RB gaming state” is a state in which the combination of symbols arranged along the activated line is “BAR−BAR−BAR” in the “general gaming state”, or along the activated line in the “regular gaming state during BB”. This occurs when the combination of the arranged symbols is "Replay-Replay-Replay" (so-called "JAC IN"). At this time, 15 medals are paid out. The “RB gaming state” is a gaming state in which a predetermined symbol combination “Replay-Replay-Replay” is prepared by betting one medal, and it is easy to hit a role that can acquire 15 medals. The maximum number of games that can be played in one "RB gaming state" (this is referred to as "RB game possible number") is twelve. Also, in this RB gaming state, the number of times that a prize can be won (this is referred to as “the number of RB game prizes possible”) is up to eight. That is, the “RB gaming state” ends when the number of games reaches twelve or the number of winnings reaches eight. Then, when the RB gaming state ends, the game shifts to a general gaming state.

  One BB ends when the normal game state during BB has been played for 30 games, or the game has shifted to the RB game state three times and the third RB ends. Then, when the BB gaming state ends, the game shifts to the general gaming state.

  In the general game state, when the combination of the symbols arranged along the activated line is “Replay-Replay-Replay”, a winning of the replay is established. When the winning of the re-game is established, the same number of medals as the inserted medals are automatically inserted, so that the player can play the game without consuming the medals.

  In the general gaming state or the general gaming state during BB, the symbol combination "Bell-Bell-Bell" is lined up along the activated line, whereby the winning of "Small Role of Bell" is established. Whether or not a prize is won when the internal winning of the "bell small part" is determined by a table number to be described later and the stop order of the player's stop buttons 7L, 7C, 7R. Specifically, only when the stop operation is performed in one stop order corresponding to the table number among the “six types” of stop orders, “bell-bell-bell” is arranged along the activated line, Winning of the small role is established. If the stop operation is performed in any of the other “five types” of stop sequences, the winning of the small role of Bell will not be established.

  Further, in the general gaming state and the general gaming state during the BB, it is possible to realize the winning of the “small win of plum” or the “small win of cherry”, but the payout number is as shown in the figure.

  In the “general game state”, when a “small part of the bell” is internally won, a “stop operation assisting period (AT described later)” period in which a “stop sequence” for realizing the winning is notified. Provided. In this period, when the player is internally elected as the "small part of the bell", the player can surely achieve the winning.

  FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining an example of a “ceiling display meter” which is a display unit for displaying a process until a rescue measure is generated. The scale shown in the figure shows the difference between the total number of medals used for the game and the total number of paid medals. That is, usually, during a general game, the number of medals used is larger than the paid-out medals, so that the scale of the meter increases until a bonus or the like is won. The scale of this meter starts from scale 1 at the end of BB, and when the scale reaches 8, a remedy called a ceiling is activated.

  Next, with reference to FIG. 8, an image (an image for notifying the stop order) displayed on the display screen 5a when the internal winning of the “bell role” during the auxiliary period will be described. Note that FIG. 7 illustrates the case where the stop order necessary for winning is left and right.

  FIG. 8A shows an image displayed at the start of the game. The symbol of the bell is displayed in the display area on the left side of the image, and it is indicated that the internal winning has been achieved for the “small part of the bell”. Further, a message “= LEFT = PUSH!” Is displayed below the bell symbol, indicating that the stop operation necessary for winning a prize is to operate the left stop button 7L as the first stop operation. Informing.

  FIG. 8B shows an image displayed after the first stop operation is performed. A bell symbol is displayed in the symbol display area on the right side of the image, and “= RIGHT = PUSH!” Is displayed below the bell symbol, indicating that the right stop button 7R should be operated as the second stop operation. Informing.

  FIG. 8C shows an image displayed after the second stop operation is performed. A bell symbol is displayed in the symbol display area at the center of the image, and “= CENTER = PUSH!” Is displayed below the bell symbol, indicating that the central stop button 7C should be operated as the third stop operation. Informing. When the first and second stop operations according to the display contents of the display screen 5a are performed, after the third stop operation, "Bell-Bell-Bell" are arranged along the activated line, and A prize is established.

  In FIG. 8, the stop button to be operated next is sequentially notified as a mode of notifying the “stop order”, but all the “stop orders” are collectively notified at the start of the game. You may do it. For example, the display screen 5a may display "stop order" such as "middle left and right".

  FIG. 3 shows a main control circuit 81 that controls a game processing operation in the gaming machine 1, a peripheral device (actuator) electrically connected to the main control circuit 81, and a control command transmitted from the main control circuit 81. 2 shows a circuit configuration including a panel display unit 5 that is a liquid crystal display device and a sub-control circuit 82 that controls the speakers 21L and 21R.

  The main control circuit 81 is constituted by a microcomputer 40 disposed on a circuit board as a main component, and a circuit for sampling random numbers added thereto. The microcomputer 40 includes a CPU 41 that performs a control operation according to a preset program, and a ROM 42 and a RAM 43 that are storage units.

  The CPU 41 is connected to a clock pulse generation circuit 44 and a frequency divider 45 for generating a reference clock pulse, and a random number generator 46 and a sampling circuit 47 for generating random numbers to be sampled. The random number sampling means may be configured to execute the random number sampling in the microcomputer 40, that is, on the operation program of the CPU 41. In that case, the random number generator 46 and the sampling circuit 47 can be omitted, or can be left as a backup for the random number sampling operation.

  The ROM 42 of the microcomputer 40 includes a probability lottery table used for determination of random number sampling performed each time the start lever 6 is operated (start operation), and a stop for determining a reel stop mode according to the operation of the stop button. A control table, various control commands (commands) to be transmitted to the sub control circuit 82, and the like are stored. This command includes a “demo display command”, a “start command”, an “all reel stop command”, a “winning combination command”, and the like. These commands will be described later. Note that the sub-control circuit does not input commands, information, and the like to the main control circuit 81, and communication is performed in one direction from the main control circuit 81 to the sub-control circuit.

  In the circuit shown in FIG. 3, a hopper as a game value providing means for storing a medal as an actuator whose operation is controlled by a control signal from the microcomputer 40 and paying out a predetermined number of medals according to a command of the hopper drive circuit 51 is provided. And a stepping motor 59L, 59C, 59R for rotating the reels 3L, 3C, 3R.

  Further, a motor driving circuit 59 for driving and controlling the stepping motors 59L, 59C, 59R, a hopper driving circuit 51 for driving and controlling the hopper 50, a lamp driving circuit 55 for driving and controlling various lamps, and a display unit for driving and controlling various display units The drive circuit 58 is connected to the output unit of the CPU 41 via the I / O port 48. Each of these drive circuits receives a control signal such as a drive command output from the CPU 41 and controls the operation of each actuator.

  Main input signal generating means for generating an input signal necessary for the microcomputer 40 to generate a control command include a start switch 6S, a 1-BET switch 11, a 2-BET switch 12, a maximum BET switch 13, There are a stored medal settlement switch 14, a inserted medal sensor 22S, a reel stop signal circuit 56, a reel position detection circuit 60, and a payout completion signal circuit 61. These are also connected to the CPU 41 via the I / O port 48.

  The start switch 6S detects an operation of the start lever 6. The inserted medal sensor 22S detects a medal inserted into the medal insertion slot 22. The reel stop signal circuit 56 generates a stop signal in response to the operation of each of the stop buttons 7L, 7C, 7R. The reel position detection circuit 60 receives the pulse signal from the reel rotation sensor and supplies a signal for detecting the position of each of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R to the CPU 41. The payout completion signal circuit 61 generates a signal for detecting the completion of medal payout when the count value of the medal detection unit 50S (the number of medals paid out from the hopper 50) reaches the designated number data.

  In the circuit of FIG. 3, a random number generator 46 generates a random number belonging to a certain numerical range, and a sampling circuit 47 samples one random number at an appropriate timing after the start lever 6 is operated. The internal winning combination is determined based on the sampled random numbers and the probability lottery table stored in the ROM 42. After the internal winning combination is determined, random number sampling is performed again to select the “stop control table”.

  After the rotation of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R is started, the number of drive pulses supplied to each of the stepping motors 59L, 59C, 59R is counted, and the counted value is written in a predetermined area of the RAM 43. A reset pulse is obtained from the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R for each rotation, and these pulses are input to the CPU 41 via the reel position detection circuit 60. With the reset pulse thus obtained, the count value of the drive pulse counted in the RAM 43 is cleared to “0”. As a result, the RAM 43 stores a count value corresponding to the rotation position within the range of one rotation for each of the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R.

  A symbol table is stored in the ROM 42 for associating the rotation positions of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R with the symbols drawn on the outer peripheral surface of the reel. In this symbol table, code numbers are sequentially provided at fixed rotation pitches of the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R with reference to the rotation position at which the reset pulse is generated, and provided in correspondence with each code number. And a symbol code indicating the symbol that has been assigned.

  Further, in the ROM 42, a winning symbol combination table is stored. In the winning symbol combination table, a winning symbol combination, a winning medal payout number, and a winning determination code representing the winning are associated with each other. The winning symbol combination table is referred to at the time of stop control of the left reel 3L, the center reel 3C, and the right reel 3R, and at the time of confirming a winning after stopping all the reels.

  When the internal winning is performed by the lottery process (probability lottery process) based on the random number sampling, the CPU 41 controls the operation signal transmitted from the reel stop signal circuit 56 at the timing when the player operates the stop buttons 7L, 7C, 7R, and A signal for stopping and controlling the reels 3L, 3C and 3R is sent to the motor drive circuit 49 based on the selected “stop control table”.

  In the stop mode indicating the winning of the internally won combination, the CPU 41 supplies a payout command signal to the hopper drive circuit 51 and pays out a predetermined number of medals from the hopper 50. At that time, the medal detection unit 50S counts the number of medals paid out from the hopper 50, and when the counted value reaches the specified number, a medal payout completion signal is input to the CPU 41. Accordingly, the CPU 41 stops driving the hopper 50 via the hopper drive circuit 51, and ends the “medal payout process”.

  The block diagram of FIG. 4 shows the configuration of the sub-control circuit 82. The sub-control circuit 82 displays various lamps (1-BET lamp 9a, 2-BET lamp 9b, maximum BET lamp 9c, WIN lamp 17) on the panel display 5 based on a control command (command) from the main control circuit 81. ), Display control of various display units (payout display unit 18, game medal storage number display unit 19, accessory operation count display unit 20) and other various images, and output control of sound from speakers 21L and 21R. Do.

  The sub-control circuit 82 is formed on a circuit board different from the circuit board constituting the main control circuit 81, has a microcomputer (hereinafter referred to as “sub-microcomputer”) 83 as a main component, It comprises an image control circuit 91 as a display control means, a sound source IC 88 for controlling sounds output from the speakers 21L and 21R, and a power amplifier 89 as an amplifier.

  The sub microcomputer 83 includes a sub CPU 84 that performs a control operation according to a control command transmitted from the main control circuit 81, a program ROM 85 as a storage unit, and a work RAM 86. The sub control circuit 82 does not include a clock pulse generation circuit, a frequency divider, a random number generator, and a sampling circuit, but is configured to execute random number sampling on an operation program of the sub CPU 84.

  The sub-microcomputer 83 includes a notification number counter, an AT number stock counter, and the like in a predetermined storage area. The notification number counter stores the remaining number of notifications of the pressing order during the stop operation assistance period. When the value of this counter is “1 or more”, it is a stop operation assisting period. The AT number stock counter stores information on the remaining number of times that the stop operation assist period occurs.

  The program ROM 85 stores a control program executed by the sub CPU 84. The work RAM 86 is configured as a temporary storage unit when the sub-CPU 84 executes the control program.

  The image control circuit 91 includes an image control CPU 92, an image control work RAM 93, an image control program ROM 94, an image ROM 96, a video RAM 97, and an image control IC 98. The image control CPU 92 determines the display content on the panel display unit 5 according to the image control program stored in the image control program ROM 94 based on the parameters set by the sub microcomputer 83. The image control program ROM 94 stores an image control program related to display on the panel display unit 5 and various selection tables. The image control work RAM 93 is configured as a temporary storage unit when the image control program is executed by the image control CPU 92. The image control IC 98 forms an image according to the display content determined by the image control CPU 92, and outputs the image to the panel display unit 5. The image ROM 96 stores dot data for forming an image. The video RAM 97 is configured as a temporary storage unit when an image is formed by the image control IC 98.

  Next, the probability lottery table will be described with reference to FIG.

  These probability lottery tables are referred to in the probability lottery process. 9A is used during a general game, and FIG. 9B is used during a general game during BB, and determines the internal winning combination of each game.

  Each table has a random number range of 0 to 16383, and an internal winning combination is determined using one numerical value extracted from numerical values in this range.

  For example, during a general game, if the extracted random number value is 2851, the internal winning combination of this game is “bell”. If the extracted random number value is 11036 to 16383 during a general game, the internal winning combination of the game is “losing”.

  Next, with reference to FIGS. 10 to 14, a stop control table used when the internal winning of the small role of the bell is performed will be described.

  The "stop control table number selection table" shown in FIG. 10 determines a table to be referred to when the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R are stopped and controlled when the small winning combination of the bell is internally won. That is, when the small winning combination of the bell is internally won, the stop control is performed based on one of the six stop control tables with reference to the table.

  FIG. 11 shows the relationship between the stop control sequence of each of the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R in each table selected in FIG. For example, when the table number selected by the stop control table number selection table in FIG. 9 is table number 1, if the stop order is “left center right”, a bell will win. However, in other stopping orders, the bell does not win. That is, in order to win the bell, the internal winning combination is the bell, and the stop control order of each of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R needs to be the stop order corresponding to the table number.

  12 to 14 illustrate the specific stop control of each of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R when the internal winning combination is a bell.

  The "stop control table" shows "stop operation positions" and "stop control positions" of the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R. The “stop operation position” indicates the symbol (specifically, symbol) located on the center line 8a when the stop buttons 7L, 7C, 7R provided corresponding to the reels 3L, 3C, 3R are operated. Is located above the center line 8a, and the center represents the code number of the symbol closest to the position of the center line 8a. The “stop control position” indicates a code number of a symbol that is stopped and displayed at the position of the center line 8a when the reel on which the stop operation has been performed is stopped. Here, in the present embodiment, the so-called “number of sliding frames” is set to a maximum of “4 frames”. For example, when the "Cherry" of the code number "12" reaches the position of the center line 8a while the right reel 3R is rotating, and the stop button 7R is operated, the "blue 7" of the code number "08" is operated. Is stopped and displayed at the position of the center line 8a.

  FIG. 12 shows a hit stop control table. This table is used when "Bell-Bell-Bell" is lined up along the active line after the internal winning of "Bell Small Role" and the reel is stopped and controlled so that the Bell Small Role wins. Is done.

  In FIG. 12, the "stop control position" of the left reel 3L is one of the code numbers "03", "08", "11", "15" or "19", and the symbol corresponding to these is " The bell is.

  In FIG. 12, the "stop control position" of the center reel 3C is one of the code numbers "03", "07", "11", "15" or "19", and the symbols corresponding to these are: "Bell".

  In FIG. 12, the “stop control position” of the right reel 3R is any of the code numbers “01”, “05”, “10”, “14” or “18”, and the symbols corresponding to these are: "Bell".

  As described above, when the hit stop control table shown in FIG. 12 is used for the stop control of each of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R, the position of the center line 8a, that is, the center of the display window 4L, 4C, 4R. Is stopped and displayed at the position of, and a prize is established.

  FIG. 13 shows a stop control table for forward / middle push-off. This table stops the reels so that "Bell-Bell-Bell" does not line up along the active line after the "Bell Small Role" is internally won (so that the Bell Small Role does not win). Used for control. Here, the stop control position with respect to the stop operation position of the left reel 3L and the center reel 3C is the same as that shown in FIG.

  In FIG. 13, the "stop control position" of the right reel 3R is any of the code numbers "02", "06", "11", "15" or "19", and the symbols corresponding to these are: "Replay".

  As described above, when the stop control table for forward-pulling / middle-push release shown in FIG. 13 is used for the stop control of each of the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R, the "bell" is displayed at the center position in the display windows 4L and 4C. Is stopped and "Replay" is stopped and displayed at the center position in the display window 4R, so that the winning of the small role of Bell is not established.

  FIG. 14 shows a reverse push stop control table. This table stops the reels so that "Bell-Bell-Bell" does not line up along the active line after the "Bell Small Role" is internally won (so that the Bell Small Role does not win). Used for control. Here, the stop control positions of the center reel 3C and the right reel 3R with respect to the stop operation positions are the same as those shown in FIG.

  In FIG. 14, the "stop control position" of the left reel 3L is one of the code numbers "04", "09", "12", "17" or "20", and the symbols corresponding to these are: "Replay".

  As described above, when the stop control table for reverse push release shown in FIG. 14 is used for the stop control of each of the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R, "Replay" is displayed at the center position in the left display window 4L. Since the display is stopped and the "bell" is stopped and displayed at the center position in the display windows 4C and 4R, the winning of the small role of the bell is not established.

  Here, in the embodiment, "six types" are adopted as the stop order as described above, and only when the stop operation is performed in any one order according to the table number, "bell-bell-bell". "Are arranged along the activated line so that a prize is established. For this reason, when the second stop operation is performed, it may be determined whether or not “bell-bell-bell” is arranged along the active line. For example, this is a case where “1” (corresponding stop order is “left center right”) is adopted as the table number and the left reel 3L is operated as the first stop operation, that is, the first stop operation is performed. In this case, it is not always clear whether the “bell-bell-bell” is arranged along the effective line, and in the embodiment, the “bell-bell-bell” is always along the center line 8a. Therefore, in the embodiment, two stop control tables for disconnection are used as shown in Fig. 12 and Fig. 13. The table numbers are "2", "3", In the case of "4", "5", or "6", perform the stop operation at "middle left and right", "middle left and right", "middle right left", "middle right left", or "middle right left", respectively. As a result, the winning of the small role of Bell is established.

  FIG. 15 illustrates the “ceiling AT number selection table” and the “AT activation lottery table”. This random number range is 0 to 4095 for the “ceiling AT number selection table” and 0 to 255 for the “AT activation lottery table”.

  One AT is for 10 games, but the "AT number selection table" determines how many times this AT is generated. The number of ATs selected in one AT lottery is any one of “1”, “2”, “5”, “10”, and “30”.

  In this table, the lottery value is sequentially subtracted from the upper row from the extracted random number value, and the value of the negative row is set as the AT count. For example, when the extracted random number value is 4021, first, 2356 which is the lottery value in the first row is subtracted from this 4021 to be 1665. Since this value is positive, the lottery value 1512 on the second line is further subtracted to be 153. Since this value is positive, 196 which is the lottery value of the third line is further subtracted, and becomes −43. Since the value is negative here, the number of ATs in this case is 5.

  It is the "AT activation lottery table" that selects whether to activate the one AT. This random number range is from 0 to 255. Here, when the activation is selected, the number of times of notification of the bell pressing order for 10 games is set. That is, the AT starts here. The lottery method is the same as in the case of the AT number selection table described above.

  FIG. 16 illustrates the “ceiling activation selection table” and the “ceiling meter shift selection table”. In this random number range, the “ceiling activation selection table” is 0 to 255. The numerical value shown in the “ceiling meter shift selection table” is a difference number value serving as a reference for determining whether to shift the scale of the meter.

  First, the “ceiling activation selection table” is used after the BB is completed, and determines the difference number value for the next ceiling activation. When 1200 in this table is selected, when the difference between the total number of medals used in the game and the total number of paid out medals reaches 1200, the ceiling AT as a remedy is activated. Similarly, when 1500 is selected, 1500 sheets are activated, and when 1800 is selected, 1800 sheets are activated.

  Next, the "ceiling meter shift selection table" is for determining the display of the ceiling meter level based on the difference number value activated by the selected AT and the current difference number value. As a specific display method, among the numerical values in the column of the difference amount value activated by the currently selected AT, the value is displayed at the level indicated in the row of the value closest to and not exceeding the current difference amount value. Is done. For example, when the difference number value activated by the currently selected AT is 1200 G and the current difference number value is 821, the display is performed at level 5. Here, when the difference number value reaches 900, a display is made so as to shift to level 6.

  The command table will be described with reference to FIGS. These commands are transmitted from the main control circuit 81 to the sub control circuit 82, and this transmission is only one-way transmission from the main control circuit 81 to the sub control circuit 82. The main control circuit 81 to the sub control circuit 82 are connected by 16 data signal lines and one signal line. These commands have a 2-byte, 4-byte, or 6-byte configuration, and are transmitted as one command in one, two, or three sequences for transmission over 16 data signal lines.

  To explain the start command among these commands, the type of the internal winning combination of this game, the playing state, and the selected stop control table number when the internal winning combination is a bell are transmitted as one command. The same applies to other commands. The commands shown in FIG. 17 and FIG. 18 are examples, and other than these, the information necessary for the control performed by the sub-control circuit is transmitted.

  Next, a control operation of the CPU 41 of the main control circuit 81 will be described with reference to main flowcharts shown in FIGS.

  First, the power is turned on (step [hereinafter, referred to as ST] 1), and the CPU 41 initializes all output ports (ST2). Subsequently, it is determined whether or not a power down error has occurred (ST3). Here, in the case of a power down error, the process proceeds to ST2, and in the case of no power down error, the process proceeds to ST4. In the process of ST4, the CPU 41 is initialized. Subsequently, it is determined whether or not a RAM error has occurred (ST5). Here, in the case of a RAM error, a display of the RAM error is performed. Specifically, a display of “rr” is displayed on a medal payout display composed of 7-segment LEDs. Note that a RAM error refers to a defect that the RAM 78 cannot read and write normally.

  If it is not a RAM error, it is determined whether or not the setting key type switch is "ON" (ST6). When the setting key type switch is “ON”, the process proceeds to ST12 after performing the setting process in six stages. When the setting key type switch is "OFF", the process proceeds to ST8. In the process of ST8, it is determined whether or not the battery backup is normal. When the battery backup is normal, after clearing the return address and the unused area of the RAM 78, all registers are returned to the output state at the time of power-off (ST9), the input port is updated to the state at the time of power-off, It returns to the state at the time of interruption (ST10).

  If the battery backup is not normal, the initial value of the set value is set (ST11). Subsequently, the entire area of the RAM 78 is cleared (ST12). Here, the processing after ST12 is also performed when the setting key type switch is “ON” in the determination of ST6 and the processing goes through the six-step setting processing. Subsequently, each set value is stored (ST13), and communication data is initialized (ST14). Then, the CPU 41 clears the RAM 78 at the end of the game (ST15). Subsequently, it is determined whether there is a request for automatic insertion of medals (ST16). The case where there is a request for automatic insertion is a case where a prize for a re-game has been established in the previous game. If there is a request for automatic insertion of medals, medals for the insertion request are automatically inserted (ST17), a game medal insertion command is transmitted to the sub control circuit, and then the process proceeds to ST20. When there is no request for automatic insertion of medals, insertion of medals from the medal insertion slot and the bet button is accepted (ST19), and the process proceeds to ST20.

  In the process of ST20, it is determined whether or not the start lever is "ON". When the start lever is "ON", it is determined whether 4.1 seconds have elapsed from the previous game (ST21). Specifically, the determination is made based on the value of the one game monitoring timer set in the process of ST24 described later. When 4.1 seconds have not elapsed from the previous game, the game start waiting time is consumed (ST22), and the process proceeds to ST23.

  In the process of ST23, the CPU 41 extracts random numbers for lottery. Specifically, a random number is extracted from the range of 0 to 16383. Subsequently, one game monitoring timer is set (ST24), and a game state monitoring process for determining the current game state is performed (ST25). Next, a probability lottery process is performed. In the probability lottery process, the internal winning combination is determined based on the random number value extracted in the process of ST23 and the probability lottery table corresponding to the current game state determined in the game state monitoring process. In the probability lottery table, as described above, a random number value to be internally won for each winning combination is predetermined.

  Next, the CPU 41 performs a hit display lamp lighting lottery process (ST27), and performs a stop control table selection process (a detailed description of the stop control table selection process will be described later) (ST28). Then, as a transmission process at the start of the game, a start command is transmitted to the sub control circuit (ST29), and initialization is performed for starting reel rotation (ST30).

  Next, the CPU 41 determines whether or not the stop button is “ON” (ST31). When the stop button is “ON”, the process proceeds to ST33. When the stop button is “OFF”, The process moves to ST32. In the process of ST32, it is determined whether or not the value of the automatic stop timer is “0”. If the value of the automatic stop timer is “0”, the process proceeds to ST33, and the value of the automatic stop timer is set to “0”. If not, the process proceeds to ST31. In the process of ST33, the number of sliding frames is determined from the winning request (internal winning combination), the symbol position (the rotation position of the reel at the time of the stop operation), the selected stop control table, and the like.

  Then, the reel is rotated by the number of sliding frames determined in the process of ST33 (ST34). Next, a request to stop the reel is set (ST35), and a reel stop command is transmitted to the sub control circuit (ST36).

  Then, it is determined whether or not all reels have stopped (ST37). If all reels have stopped, the process proceeds to ST38, and if not all reels have stopped, the process proceeds to ST31. . Then, after performing the effect processing at the end of the game (ST38), a winning search is performed (ST39). Subsequently, it is determined whether or not the winning flag is normal (ST40). If the winning flag is normal, the process proceeds to ST42. If the winning flag is not normal, an illegal error is displayed (ST40). ST41).

  Next, it is determined whether or not the winning number is 0 (ST42). Specifically, it is determined whether or not any one of the winning combinations (excluding replays) has been won. When a winning is achieved, medals are stored or paid out according to the state (whether the BB is operating or the RB is operating) and the winning combination (ST43).

  Next, the CPU 41 determines whether or not the BB and RB are operating (ST44). If the BB and RB are operating, the process proceeds to ST45. If the BB and RB are not operating, the process of ST48 is performed. Move on to In the process of ST45, BB and RB game number check processes are performed, and it is determined whether or not BB has ended (ST46). If the BB is ended, after transmitting the BB end command, the RAM at the end of the BB is cleared (ST47), and the process proceeds to ST49. If it is determined in ST46 that the BB is not completed, the process proceeds to ST49. If BB and RB are not operating in ST44, BB and RB winning check processing (ST48) is performed, and the process proceeds to ST49. In the process of ST49, a bonus 7SEG control process is performed, and the process proceeds to ST15.

  Next, the stop control table selection process performed in ST28 will be described. First, the CPU 41 determines whether or not the internal winning combination of this game is a bell (ST50). If the internal winning combination of the game is a bell, the process proceeds to ST51. If the internal winning combination of the game is not a bell, the process proceeds to ST52. In the process of ST51, a random value is extracted, and one stop control table is selected based on the stop control table selection table. In the process of ST52, a stop control table predetermined for each internal winning combination is selected.

  Next, a control process of the sub control circuit 82 will be described with reference to FIGS.

  First, the outline of the processing of the sub control circuit will be described with reference to FIGS. First, the sub CPU 84 determines whether or not a game medal insertion command has been received, that is, whether or not a game medal used for one game has been inserted (ST101). Here, the game medal insertion command includes information such as how many game medals have been inserted. If a game medal insertion command has been received, the process proceeds to ST102. In the process of ST102, the number of inserted sheets changed in the start lever receiving state is updated. After this process, the process returns to ST101 again.

  If a game medal insertion command has not been received, it is determined whether or not a start command has been received, that is, whether or not one game has started (ST103). When the start command is received, the number of BETs (number of game media used) of this game is determined (ST104), and the total number of BETs is updated (ST105). Next, a process related to the display of the ceiling meter is performed (ST106), and it is checked whether to activate the ceiling AT (ST107), and an AT execution process, that is, a process related to notification of the pressing order is performed (ST108). After this process, the process returns to ST101 again.

  If the start command has not been received in ST103, it is determined whether or not a winning command has been received, that is, whether or not a predetermined winning combination has been won (ST109). When a winning command is received, the total payout number is updated (ST109). After this process, the process returns to ST101 again.

  If no winning command has been received in ST109, it is determined whether or not a BB end command has been received, that is, whether or not BB has ended in this game (ST111). When the BB end command is received, the total number of BETs and the total number of payouts stored in the RAM are cleared, and the scale of the ceiling meter is set to 1 and displayed (ST112). Here, by clearing the total number of BETs and the total number of payouts, it is possible to start the determination of the remedy after BB.

  Then, the next ceiling activation value is determined by the ceiling activation value selection process (ST113). If the BB end command has not been received in ST111, the process returns to ST101 without performing the processes in ST112 and ST113.

  FIG. 28 illustrates the inserted number updating process shown in ST102, the BET number determining process shown in ST104, the total BET number updating process shown in ST105, and the total payout number updating process shown in ST110.

  The inserted number updating process shown in FIG. 28A temporarily stores the transmitted inserted number in a predetermined area of the RAM (ST110). Then, in the BET number determination process shown in (b), the insertion number stored in the RAM in ST110 is determined as the number of BETs for this game, and stored in the RAM (ST111). As described above, the number of inserted coins is monitored in the inserted coin number updating process, and the number of BETs is determined after the start command is received by operating the 1-BET switch 11, the 2-BET switch 12, and the maximum -BET switch 13. This is because, when a game medal is inserted, the number of inserted coins can be changed before the start lever is operated, so that the number of BETs must be determined when the start lever is operated.

  FIG. 28 (c) adds the number of BETs of this game determined in ST111 to the total number of BETs (used game media). For example, if the number of bets placed in this game is three, 3 is added. By performing this process for each game, the total number of BETs can be calculated. In (d), when a payout is made, the paid out number is added to the total payout number. For example, when a prize is won, 6 is added, and when there is no prize, 0 is added. By performing this process for each game, the total number of payouts can be calculated.

  FIG. 29 shows the ceiling meter display shown in ST106. In this process, first, based on the ceiling meter shift selection table, the display level of the ceiling meter is determined based on the number of ceilings set at each level and the current difference number (ST118). Then, it is determined whether or not to shift the currently displayed level (ST119). If the level is to be shifted, the meter level is incremented by one to the current level and displayed (ST120). If the level is not shifted, the process is returned.

  FIG. 30 shows the ceiling AT activation check processing shown in ST107. The ceiling AT is a stop operation assistance period that is activated as a rescue measure, and is activated when it reaches a predetermined value (set ceiling value), so the expression “ceiling” is used. The predetermined value is determined by ceiling activation value selection processing performed after BB ends, and is one of 1200, 1500, and 1800.

  In this processing, first, it is determined whether or not the BB has been internally won in this game, or whether or not the current gaming state is during the BB internal winning (ST121). When the BB is internally won in this game, or when the current gaming state is the BB internal winning, the total number of BETs and the total number of payouts stored in the RAM are cleared (ST122), and the process is returned. In this way, once the BB is internally won, no remedy is activated unless the BB is terminated.

  Then, in the case where the BB internal win is not performed in this game and the current gaming state is not the BB internal win, it is determined whether or not the current difference number has reached the set ceiling value. (ST123). Here, if the current difference number is equal to or larger than the ceiling value, a ceiling AT number selection table is set (ST124), random numbers are drawn based on the table (ST125), and the value selected by this drawing is set to the AT number stock counter. (ST126). If it is determined in ST123 that the current difference number is smaller than the ceiling value, the process is returned.

  FIG. 31 shows the ceiling activation value selection processing shown in ST113. This process is performed after the BB ends, and determines the number of games for which the next rescue procedure is activated, that is, the ceiling value. In this process, random numbers are randomly selected based on the ceiling activation value selection table, any one of 1200, 1500, and 1800 is selected, and the value is held in the RAM until the next BB ends and a new ceiling value is selected. You. In this way, by selecting and determining the ceiling value, the ceiling value is not constant, so that it is not easy for the player to determine when the next remedy will be activated.

  FIG. 32 shows the AT execution processing shown in ST108.

  First, it is determined whether the value of the notification frequency counter is 1 or more (ST201). If the value of the notification number counter is 1 or more, a pressing order notification process (ST204) is performed. If the value of the notification number counter is not 1 or more, it is determined whether the value of the AT number stock counter is 1 or more (ST202). If the value of the AT number stock counter is not 1 or more, the process is returned, and if the value of the AT number stock counter is 1 or more, the AT activation lottery process (ST203) is performed.

  When the value of the above-mentioned notification number counter is 1 or more, it indicates that the AT is being performed. When the value of the AT number stock counter is 1 or more, it indicates that the AT is being hidden.

  FIG. 33 shows the pressing order notifying process shown in ST204. First, the value of the push order notification frequency counter is decremented by 1 (ST205). Then, it is determined whether or not the internal winning combination of the game is a bell (ST206). If the internal winning combination of the game is not a bell, the process is returned. If the internal winning combination of the game is a bell, information for causing the bell to win based on the selected stop control table number is notified ( ST207), and return the process.

  FIG. 34 shows the AT activation lottery process shown in ST203. First, random number lottery is performed based on the AT activation lottery table (ST208). As a result of the lottery, it is determined whether or not the activation has been won (ST209). If the activation has not been won, the process is returned. If the activation has been won, the value of 10 is added to the push order notification frequency counter. Then (ST210), 1 is subtracted from the value of the AT number stock counter (ST211), and the process is returned.

  As described above, the present invention has been described through the above-described embodiment, but the present invention is not limited to this. In the embodiment, the clearing of the total payout number and the total BET number is performed at the time of the BB internal winning, during the BB internal winning, and at the time of the BB prize. However, this timing can be arbitrarily set. It may be configured to not be provided.

  In the above-described embodiment, the stop operation assisting period is activated every time the difference number reaches the predetermined number. However, this rescue measure is performed a predetermined number of times (for example, only once) after the end of BB. It may be.

  In addition, although the AT is notified of the pressing order when the success or failure of the prize is determined by the difference of the pressing order, an AT for notifying the internal winning combination may be adopted. Further, as a situation advantageous to the player, BB, RB, and the like can be employed in addition to the AT as long as a large number of game media can be obtained.

  Further, in addition to the pachislot gaming machine as in the present embodiment, the present invention can be applied to other gaming machines such as a pachinko gaming machine.

It is a perspective view showing the appearance of the slot machine by an embodiment of the present invention. It is a front view showing the appearance of the slot machine by an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a configuration of an electric circuit of the slot machine according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a sub control circuit of the slot machine according to the embodiment of the present invention. It is a figure showing a symbol row arranged on a reel. It is a figure showing a winning combination and a payout number corresponding to a winning symbol combination. It is a figure showing an example of a ceiling display meter. It is the figure which showed the example of the image which notifies a stop order. It is the figure which showed the probability lottery table. It is a figure showing a stop control table number selection table. It is the figure which showed the correspondence of the pressing order for each stop table number and winning establishment failure. FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of a stop control table. FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of a stop control table. FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of a stop control table. It is the figure which showed the AT frequency selection table and the AT activation lottery table. It is the figure which showed the ceiling activation value selection table and the ceiling meter shift selection table. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of a command transmitted from a main control circuit to a sub control circuit. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of a command transmitted from a main control circuit to a sub control circuit. 5 is a flowchart illustrating processing of a main control circuit. 5 is a flowchart illustrating processing of a main control circuit. 5 is a flowchart illustrating processing of a main control circuit. 5 is a flowchart illustrating processing of a main control circuit. 5 is a flowchart illustrating processing of a main control circuit. 5 is a flowchart illustrating processing of a main control circuit. It is a flowchart which shows a stop control table selection process. 9 is a flowchart illustrating processing of a sub control circuit. 9 is a flowchart illustrating processing of a sub control circuit. It is a flowchart which shows an insertion number update process, a BET number update process, a total BET number update process, and a total payout number update process. It is a flowchart which shows a ceiling meter display process. It is a flowchart which shows ceiling AT activation check processing. It is a flowchart which shows a ceiling activation value selection process. It is a flowchart which shows AT execution processing. It is a flowchart which shows a push order notification process. It is a flow chart which shows AT activation lottery processing. It is an explanatory view showing an arrangement state of a panel display unit. It is explanatory drawing of a panel display part. FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram of a liquid crystal panel. It is an explanatory view showing an example of a conventional gaming machine.

Explanation of reference numerals

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Gaming machine 2 Cabinet 3L, 3C, 3R rotation reel 5 Panel display part 5a Display screen 501 Liquid crystal panel 503 Light guide plate 504 Diffusion plate 505 Frame

Claims (3)

A variable display means for variably displaying a plurality of symbols, an internal winning combination determining means for determining an internal winning combination, a plurality of operating means for stopping the variable display of the variable displaying means, and the internal winning combination determining means. A stop control unit that stops and controls the variable display operation of the variable display unit based on the determination result and the operation of the operation unit, and a stop mode of the variable display unit stopped by the stop control unit is a predetermined stop mode. In a gaming machine comprising: a game medium payout means for paying out a game medium when there is; and a front side display means provided in front of the variable display means and capable of seeing a symbol of the variable display means,
A gaming machine, wherein a backlight is provided in the front display means, and the backlight is illuminated on a symbol of the variable display means.   The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the backlight is provided between the front display means and the variable display means.   3. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the front display means is configured to perform a predetermined display also around the variable display means.

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