JP2005205192A - Slot machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a slot machine which is kept from exceeding the upper limit of the rate of put-out balls while setting the rate of winning the BB games higher to a certain extent. <P>SOLUTION: The CPU 31 calculates the rate of put-out balls (S93) to determine the number of RT games based on the rate of put-out balls (S94). Regarding the number of RT games, it is prescribed that the rate of put-out balls in the future as expected when the BB prize is won in the subsequent game after the end of the RT game should not exceed the predetermined reference rate of put-out balls. The CPU 31 judges whether the counts of games are zero or not (S95) and when the number of RT games is not zero, the ongoing RT game flag is set (S96), thereby delaying the start of the BB game. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2005,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to a slot machine.

  A slot machine generally includes three reels, three reel stop buttons corresponding to each reel, and a start lever for starting a game. When the player depresses the start lever, all reels rotate at the same time, and each reel stops at the timing when the player depresses each reel stop button. Of the combinations of symbols arranged on the winning line in a state where the reels are stopped, a combination of symbols that gives a game value is called a role. When a combination of symbols composing a combination on the effective winning line is completed, a winning is made, and the player can obtain the number of medals corresponding to the winning combination. That is, when the state where the reels are stopped is a state (predetermined state) that is a combination of symbols constituting the winning combination, the winning combination is awarded and a game value corresponding to the winning winning combination is given.

  Here, the winning is generally determined by two steps. The first step is called internal lottery. In the internal lottery, the lottery is executed at the operation timing of the start lever to determine which prize group will be won or lost, and internal lottery information (ISD) indicating the lottery result is generated. Here, the prize group refers to a group of one or a plurality of roles and corresponds to a lottery category. That is, a prize group and a combination may correspond one-to-one, or a plurality of combinations may correspond to one prize group.

  In the second step, the reel stop position is controlled in accordance with the operation of the reel stop button. If the internal lottery information indicates a loss, even if the player operates the reel stop button at the timing when the symbol that constitutes a certain role reaches the valid pay line, the reel stop timing is delayed, The reel is controlled so that the symbols constituting the winning combination do not stop on the valid winning line. The same applies to the combination corresponding to the prize that was not won in the internal lottery. Such control is called kick control. On the other hand, if a prize group which is an internal lottery is won, even if the operation timing of the reel stop button is slightly early, the pull-in control is performed so that the symbols constituting the role corresponding to the prize group stop on the winning line. The However, if the operation timing of the reel stop button is significantly deviated, no prize will be awarded. In other words, in order for a player to win a prize, it is necessary to win a prize group by internal lottery and align the winning prize group on an effective prize line. Winning any prize group in the internal lottery is called winning, and not winning any prize group is called losing. And, the fact that the symbols stopped on the winning line make up the winning combination is called winning, and the non-winning is not forming the winning combination. In non-winning cases, when the internal lottery result is lost, even if the internal lottery is won, the operation timing of the reel stop button is greatly shifted, so that the role corresponding to the winning prize is not established, so-called Includes missing items.

  Such a slot machine can execute a plurality of types of games such as a big bonus game and a regular bonus game in addition to the normal game. The expected value of the number of medals that can be acquired per game is larger in the big bonus game and the regular bonus game than in the normal game. The transition from the normal game to the big bonus game is conditional on winning the BB prize, and the transition to the regular bonus game is conditional on winning the RB prize. The internal lottery described above is executed for each game, and the internal lottery result is usually not carried over to the next game. Carry over to the game. As described above, winning a prize is a necessary condition that the prize is won by an internal lottery, and further, it is necessary and sufficient to operate a reel stop button at a predetermined timing. As such a slot machine, the one described in Patent Document 1 is known.

Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2-220884

  By the way, most of the lottery divisions in the internal lottery are often lost. If the internal lottery results in a loss, the lost stop table is referred to and the reels are controlled not to win all the prizes. For this reason, when the symbols stop apart, at the time when the second reel stop button is operated, the non-winning is determined from the viewpoint of the player. As a result, there was a problem that most of the series of games lacked interest.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above-described circumstances, and it is an object of the present invention to provide a slot machine that can continue a player's expectation when the internal lottery is lost.

  The present invention will be described below. In order to facilitate understanding of the present invention, reference numerals in the accompanying drawings are appended in parentheses, but the present invention is not limited to the illustrated embodiment.

  In the slot machine according to the present invention, the variable display of the plurality of display columns (R1, R2, R3) and the plurality of display columns (R1, R2, R3) in which a plurality of types of symbols are cyclically variably displayed is stopped. In the state, among the plurality of winning lines (L1 to L5) crossing the plurality of display rows (R1, R2, and R3), the arrangement of the symbols stopped on the activated winning lines (L1 to L5) is predetermined. Corresponding to a plurality of display columns (R1, R2, R3) and a game value providing means (31) for providing a game value in accordance with the winning prize in any one of the prizes in the stop mode A plurality of stop operation means (7a, 7b, 7c) each provided and outputting a stop operation signal (44a to 46a) corresponding to the stop operation of the player, and the plurality of stop operation means so as to accept the stop operation (7a, 7b, c) an enabling means (31) for enabling each game, and a lottery information (ISD) indicating a winning or losing one selected from a plurality of prizes and loses by lottery for each game. The lottery means (31-33) for generating the display and used in the process of stopping the variable display, and controlling each display row (R1, R2, R3) so as to be a specific stop mode among the stop modes corresponding to the loss Possible first stop data (A) and second stop data capable of controlling each display row (R1, R2, R3) so as to be a stop mode other than the specific stop mode among the stop modes corresponding to the loss. Stop data storage means (35) storing the above and the plurality of stop operation means (7a, 7b) before the validation means (31) validates the plurality of stop manipulation means (7a, 7b, 7c). , 7c) stop operation sequence in advance A determination unit (31) for detecting a stop operation order of the plurality of stop operation means (7a, 7b, 7c) based on the predetermination means (31) to be determined and the stop operation signals (44a to 46a). ), Determination means (31) for determining whether or not the operation order determined by the prior determination means (31) matches the operation order detected by the operation order detection means (31), and the lottery When the information (ISD) indicates a loss and the determination result of the determination means (31) indicates a match, the first stop data (A) is selected, and the lottery information (ISD) indicates a loss and the determination When the determination result of the means (31) indicates inconsistency, the stop data selection means (31) for selecting the second stop data and the display columns (R1, R2, R3) according to the selected stop data variable And stop control means (31, 51 to 53) for stopping the display.

  According to the present invention, when the internal lottery results in a loss, when the operation sequence of the stop operation means matches the operation sequence determined in advance, the display column stop mode can be set as the specific stop mode. it can. Further, when the operation order becomes inconsistent, the stop mode of the display row can be set to a stop mode other than the specific stop mode. Therefore, it is possible to vary the outcome when the internal lottery is lost, depending on whether the operation order matches or does not match.

  Here, the specific stop mode is composed of a plurality of common symbols having the same symbol type, and one special symbol having a different symbol type from the common symbol, and the first stop data (A) Including the special stop data for stopping the special symbols on the activated pay lines (L1 to L5) and the common stop data for stopping the common symbols on the activated pay lines (L1 to L5). The data selection means (31) selects the special stop data in the last stop operation when the lottery information (ISD) indicates a loss and the determination result of the determination means (31) indicates a match. It is preferable to select the common stop data in the stop operation. According to the present invention, it is possible to make it unclear whether or not the specific stop mode is set until the last stop operation is performed. In particular, if common symbols are lined up on the activated pay line, if you win a prize, it will be unclear whether you win or win until the last stop operation. It becomes possible.

  Further, another slot machine according to the present invention has a plurality of display columns (R1, R2, R3) for cyclically variably displaying a plurality of types of symbols, and a variable of the plurality of display columns (R1, R2, R3). In a state where the display is stopped, of the symbols stopped on the activated winning lines (L1 to L5) among the plurality of winning lines (L1 to L5) crossing the plurality of display columns (R1, R2, and R3). A game value giving means (31) for winning any one of the prizes when the arrangement is in a predetermined stop mode and giving a game value according to the prize, and the plurality of display columns (R1, R2, R3) And a plurality of stop operation means (7a, 7b, 7c) that respectively output stop operation signals (44a to 46a) according to the player's stop operation, and the plurality of stop operation means to accept the stop operation. Stop operation means (7 , 7b, 7c) for each game, and a lottery information indicating a winning or losing winning by determining one of a plurality of prizes and loses by lottery for each game. (ISD) generating lottery means (31 to 33) and variable display are used in the process of stopping each display row (R1, R2, R3) so as to be a specific stop mode among the stop modes corresponding to the loss. ) That can control the display columns (R1, R2, and R3) to be in a stop mode other than the specific stop mode among the stop modes corresponding to the loss. 2 Stop data storage means (35) storing stop data, and before the validation means (31) validates the plurality of stop operation means (7a, 7b, 7c), the lottery information (ISD) When showing a loss, the first The determination means (31) for determining whether to select stop data (A) or the second stop data by lottery, and the determination means when the lottery information (ISD) indicates a loss It is preferable to include stop control means (31, 51 to 53) for stopping variable display of each display row (R1, R2, R3) according to stop data.

  According to the present invention, when the lottery is lost in the internal lottery, it is determined whether to select the first stop data or the second stop data by the lottery. A mode can be a specific stop mode. On the other hand, when the lottery is lost, the stop mode of the display row can be set to a stop mode other than the specific stop mode. Therefore, in the case of a loss, it can alternatively be determined whether or not a specific stop mode is set.

  Here, the specific stop mode is composed of a plurality of common symbols having the same symbol type, and one special symbol having a different symbol type from the common symbol, and the first stop data (A) Including the special stop data for stopping the special symbols on the activated pay lines (L1 to L5) and the common stop data for stopping the common symbols on the activated pay lines (L1 to L5). When the lottery information (ISD) indicates a loss and the first stop data (A) is selected by lottery, the means selects the special stop data in the last stop operation, and the stop operation other than the last It is preferable to select the common stop data.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to make it unclear whether or not the specific stop mode is set until the last stop operation is performed. In particular, if common symbols are lined up on the activated pay line, if you win a prize, it will be unclear whether you win or win until the last stop operation. It becomes possible.

  Further, in the slot machine described above, the stop data storage means (35) serves as the first stop data (A) at the operation timing of the stop operation means (7a, 7b, 7c). R2 and R3) are positioned on the activated pay line (L1 to L5) when a part of the range is located on the activated pay line (L1 to L5). Control data for controlling each of the display columns (R1, R2, R3) to be pulled in is stored, and the control data corresponding to at least one display column (R1, R2, R3) is stored in other display columns ( It is preferable to draw in a different type of symbol from R1, R2, R3). According to this invention, the kind of symbol which comprises a specific stop aspect can be varied.

  Here, the specific stop mode is composed of a plurality of common symbols having a common symbol type, and one special symbol having a different symbol type from the common symbol, and the stop data storage means (35) The control data is stored corresponding to each display row (R1, R2, R3), and the control data is stored in the display row (R1, R2) at the operation timing of the stop operation means (7a, 7b, 7c). R2 and R3) are displayed on the display line so that the common symbols are drawn onto the activated pay lines (L1 to L5) when a part of the range is positioned on the activated pay lines (L1 to L5). Common stop data for controlling (R1, R2, R3) and a predetermined range different from the partial range of the display row (R1, R2, R3) at the operation timing of the stop operation means (7a, 7b, 7c) Range A special control for controlling the display columns (R1, R2, R3) to draw the special symbols on the activated winning lines (L1 to L5) when the activated winning lines (L1 to L5) are located. Preferably, the common stop data and the special stop data are selected and used according to the operation order of the stop operation means (7a, 7b, 7c).

  The first stop data (A) is assigned to the number of symbols to be moved from when the stop operation signal is generated until the symbol in the display column stops, and to each symbol displayed in the display column. The stop control means (31) is adapted to obtain a symbol number at a reference position at the timing when the stop operation signal is detected, and the first stop data (A). Referring to FIG. 4, a specifying unit that specifies the number of moving symbols corresponding to the acquired symbol number, and a stopping unit (31) that stops the display column by moving the symbols by the specified number of moving symbols, In each display row, the symbols constituting the specific stop mode are arranged so as to be within the range of the maximum number of moving symbols. According to this invention, within the range of the maximum number of moving symbols, symbols constituting the specific stop mode are arranged in each display row.

  In addition, the award includes a replay award that can execute a replay game that can be executed next under the same conditions as the immediately preceding game without paying a game value when winning, and the stop mode is the specific stop mode. When the game is detected, game number determination means for determining the number of games for executing the replay time game in which the winning probability of the replay prize is higher than that of the previous game by lottery, and the replay prize of the determined number of games is determined. And a lottery probability control means (31) for controlling the lottery means (31 to 33) so that the winning probability is higher than that of a conventional game. According to the present invention, it is possible to execute the repuitime game for the number of games determined by lottery. Here, the CPU 31 may switch the game number lottery table according to the payout rate.

  Here, the award includes a replay award that allows a replay game that can be executed next under the same conditions as the immediately preceding game without paying the game value when winning, and a predetermined number of past games from the immediately preceding game are awarded. A game that executes a replay time game in which the winning probability of the replay prize is increased as compared to the previous game when it detects that the play rate calculation means for calculating the ball rate and the stop mode is the specific stop mode. Game number determining means for determining the number according to the payout rate, and the lottery means (31-33) so that the winning probability of the replay prize is higher than that of the previous game by the determined number of games. It is preferable that a lottery probability control means for controlling Thereby, when the lower limit of the payout rate is legally restricted, the payout rate can be increased by executing the replay time game.

Moreover, it is preferable that the said game number determination means selects one from several times including 0 times from the viewpoint of simplifying a process, and makes it the said game number.
The game number determination means determines a new game number when the stop mode becomes the specific stop mode during the replay time game, adds the new game number to the remaining game number, and replays the game. It is preferable to update the number of games in the time game. In this case, a new replay time game can be started during the replay time game, and at that time, the replay time game is added to the number of previously acquired replay time games and the number of games is updated.

  In addition, the award includes a special game start award that is a condition for starting a special game with a high game value that is awarded in comparison with a base game. Does the lottery probability control means digest the number of games? When the lottery information (ISD) indicates that the special game start prize is won during the replay time game, or when it is detected again that the stop mode is the specific stop mode during the replay time game, It is preferable to control the lottery means (31 to 33) so as to return the winning probability of the replay prize to the previous state. According to this invention, the replay time game can be ended when the game is shifted to a game that can be given a large game value.

Further, in the slot machine described above, when one game is performed from a bet operation in which a player inserts a game medium to a bet operation of the next game in order to start a certain game, the one game sequentially executes a plurality of processes. And a time management means for controlling the time from a predetermined process to a predetermined process of the next game among a plurality of processes of the one game to exceed a predetermined time, and during the replay time game The replay game preferably includes a time shortening unit that invalidates the control of the time management unit. Even if the replay prize is won, there is no change in the number of acquisitions, but according to the present invention, the replay time game can be completed in a short time.
Moreover, it is preferable that the slot machine mentioned above is provided with a notification means for detecting that the predetermined condition is satisfied and notifying the operation order determined by the prior determination means (31). Furthermore, the notification means compares the output rate calculation means for calculating the output rate in the past game by a predetermined number from the immediately preceding game, and compares the calculated output rate with a predetermined value, When the payout rate is lower than the specified value, it is preferable to notify the operation order determined by the prior determination means.

  As described above, according to the present invention, it is possible to provide a slot machine capable of continuing the player's expectation when the internal lottery is lost.

<1: External configuration of slot machine>
FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an appearance of the slot machine 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention. The housing of the slot machine 1 includes a main body 2 and a front door 3 attached to the front surface of the main body 2. A liquid crystal display device 64 for presenting predetermined information to the player is provided on the upper stage of the front door 3. The panel display portion D in the middle stage of the front door 3 is provided with three vertically long display windows 4a, 4b, and 4c. The display windows 4a, 4b, and 4c are formed of a transparent material such as acrylic resin. Further, three winning lines L1 to L5 are provided horizontally and obliquely on the display windows 4a, 4b, and 4c.

  In addition, an auxiliary display unit 20 is provided on the left side of the display window 4a. The auxiliary display unit 20 is composed of five LEDs respectively corresponding to the pay lines L1 to L5. When the player inserts medals or performs a bet operation to be described later, the number of pay lines L1 to L5 corresponding to the number of bets becomes valid. In this slot machine 1, the winning line L1 is valid when the number of bets is one, the winning lines L1 to L3 are valid when the number of bets is two, and the winning lines L1 to L1 when the number of bets is three. L5 becomes effective. Each LED constituting the auxiliary display unit 20 is turned on when the corresponding winning line L1 to L5 is valid, and is turned off when the corresponding winning line L1 to L5 is invalid. Thus, the player can know which winning lines L1 to L5 are valid.

  Inside the panel display D, three rows of left, middle and right reels R1, R2 and R3 each having a plurality of types of symbols drawn on the outer peripheral surface thereof are rotatably provided. FIG. 2 shows the structure of the left, middle, and right reels R1, R2, and R3, and FIG. 3 shows the detailed structure of the right reel R3. Each of the reels R1 to R3 has an annular shape, and various symbols are printed on its surface (surface visible from the display windows 4a to 4c). A light shielding film S that shields light is formed on the back surface of the right reel R3 except for a part thereof. In the portion where the light shielding film S is formed, light is not transmitted even if light is irradiated from the back side. On the other hand, the light shielding film S is not formed on each design portion, and the uneven member P for scattering light is formed on the back surface of the right reel R3. In addition, the reel of each design part is white and translucent. In the example shown in FIG. 3, the concavo-convex member P is formed inside the contour portion of the symbol “7”.

  A right reel illumination unit 670 is disposed on the inner peripheral surface side of the right reel R3. The right reel lighting unit 670 includes upper, middle, and lower shades partitioned by walls. A light source 67 is provided in each of the upper, middle, and lower shades. As the light source 67, a cold cathode tube, an LED, or a light bulb can be used.

  Further, a light shielding piece 491 is provided on a part of the right reel R3 so as to protrude from the reel body, and crosses the photocoupler 492 when the right reel R3 rotates. The structure of the left reel R1 and the middle reel R2 and the peripheral configuration thereof are the same as the structure of the right reel R3 and the peripheral configuration thereof described with reference to FIG.

  Returning to FIG. 1, the description will be continued. Below the display windows 4a, 4b, and 4c, there is provided an operation unit OP on which various operation members for a player to execute a game are arranged. The operation unit OP includes a medal slot 5, a start lever 6, left / middle / right reel stop buttons 7a, 7b, 7c, a credit button 8, and a BET button 15.

  The medal slot 5 is provided below the display window 4c so that medals can be inserted. When one medal is inserted, the winning line L1 is activated, when two medals are inserted, the winning lines L1 to L3 are activated, and when three medals are inserted, the winning lines L1 to L5 are activated. Further, when the player inserts more than 3 medals, the slot machine 1 stores the number of medals of 4 or more as credits. The slot machine 1 includes a storage device therein. The storage device stores the medals acquired by the medals inserted into the slot machine 1, so that the player can operate the buttons and other devices without newly inserting medals into the slot machine. It is a device that can provide a predetermined number of medals from among medals in order for a game, and is used for the game based on the total number of medals entered in the slot machine and medals acquired by the game. It is possible to record the number obtained by subtracting the total number of objects by an electromagnetic method.

  The BET button 15 is provided on the lower left side of the display window 4a. The BET button 15 is used for designating the number of medals bet by the player in one game. By operating the BET button 15 by the player, the stored medals can be bet without inserting medals from the medal insertion slot 5. Therefore, the winning lines L1 to L5 are appropriately enabled according to the number of medals designated by operating the BET button 15. The relationship between the number of medals designated by the operation of the BET button 15 and the valid pay lines L1 to L5 is the same as when medals are directly inserted.

  The start lever 6 is provided below the BET button 15. The start lever 6 is used by the player to instruct the start of the game. When the player depresses the start lever 6, the reels R1, R2, and R3 start to rotate all at once, and the symbols in the display windows 4a, 4b, and 4c are variably displayed.

  Left, middle and right reel stop buttons 7 a, 7 b and 7 c are provided on the right side of the start lever 6. The left, middle and right reel stop buttons 7a, 7b and 7c are used to stop the three rows of left, middle and right reels R1, R2 and R3 rotating in the display windows 4a, 4b and 4c, respectively.

  On the right side of the reel stop button 7c, a credit check button 8 is provided for returning medals stored as credits to the medal tray 10.

<2: Role>
FIG. 4 shows an example of symbols displayed on the left / middle / right reels R1, R2, and R3. As shown in the figure, 21 symbols and 7 types of symbols are displayed on each reel R1, R2, R3, and symbol numbers PN = 1 to 21 are assigned to the symbols.

  In a game by the slot machine 1, when a predetermined combination of symbols is aligned on the winning lines L1 to L5 enabled by inserting medals, the number of medals corresponding to the aligned symbols is paid out. The medal is inserted into the slot machine 1 when starting the game, and is necessary for the player to continue the game. That is, a medal can be said to be a medium (game medium) having a game value such as continuation of a game. In this case, the medal corresponds to the game value. Note that an information recording medium such as a magnetic card or an IC card in which information corresponding to the number of medals is recorded is also included in the game medium.

  Of the arrangement (combination) of symbols, the one that gives game value is called “role”, and is distinguished from “valueless” non-winning. The game value refers to a privilege given to the player, and includes transferring a predetermined amount of medals to the player and shifting from one type of game to another type of game. The type of game value given as a result of one game is called “prize”, and obtaining “prize” is called “winning”. The award starts with the same conditions as the previous game without inserting a medal, and the start award that shifts from the normal game to another type of game and the small role award with a medal payout (payout award) It is roughly divided into replay prizes. The start prize may be accompanied by a medal payout, or may not be paid out.

  The types of games that can be executed by the slot machine 1 include normal games, regular bonus games (hereinafter referred to as RB games), big bonus games (hereinafter referred to as BB games), and replay time games (hereinafter referred to as RT games). Called). Note that the normal game includes a replay game that can be played under the same conditions as the immediately preceding game without inserting medals on the condition that the replay prize is won. The replay time game is a game set with a higher probability of winning the replay prize than the normal game. The RB game start prize is called the RB prize, and the BB game start prize is called the BB prize. In the RB award and the BB award, 15 medals are paid out by winning, but no medal is paid out even if the replay prize is won. The replay time game is executed when a predetermined start condition is satisfied, and is ended when a predetermined end condition is satisfied. As the start condition, for example, the game result is not won, and the display mode of the reels R1 to R3 is a predetermined mode. In addition, it can employ | adopt that having won the BB prize, having completed the BB game, or having won the BB prize by an internal lottery.

  The replay game is a game that can be played without inserting medals (including using medals for games by operating buttons and other devices related to the storage device). The RB game ends when the JAC game is played 12 times or a maximum of 8 times is won. The JAC game is played by betting one medal and enabling only the central pay line L1. JAC games will adopt the JAC Award. When winning the JAC Award, the slot machine 1 pays out 15 medals.

  The BB game has a higher probability of winning the RB prize than the normal game. However, there is a limit to the number of medals that the player can acquire during the BB game, and the BB game is terminated before the predetermined number is exceeded. In the following description, in order to distinguish between RBs in the BB and RBs that have won alone, the former is referred to as RB in BB and the latter is referred to as single RB.

  On the other hand, the small role prize includes a cherry prize with two medal payouts, a bell prize with five medal payouts, and a watermelon prize with seven medal payouts. The relationship between roles and prizes is as follows.

  1) Red 7 Role This role is a sequence of symbols with symbol numbers PN = 1 and 7 on the left reel R1, symbols with symbol number PN = 9 on the middle reel R2, and symbols with symbol numbers PN = 1 and 9 on the right reel R3. It is. The red 7 role corresponds to the BB prize and is an opportunity to shift from the base game to the BB game.

  2) BAR Role This role is a sequence of symbols of symbol number PN = 17 on the left reel R1, symbols of symbol number PN = 14 on the middle reel R2, and symbols of symbol numbers PN = 5 and 18 on the right reel R3. The BAR combination corresponds to a single RB award and triggers the transition from the base game to the RB game.

  3) Bell role This role consists of the symbol number PN = 4, 8, 10, 15, or 20 on the left reel R1, the symbol number PN = 4, 8, 13, 17 or 21 on the middle reel R2, the right This is an arrangement of symbols of symbol number PN = 4, 8, 12, 17 or 21 on the reel R3. When a bell role is established in a normal game, a BB game, or a CB game, a bell prize is won.

  4) Watermelon role This role consists of the symbol number PN = 2, 6, 11, 16 or 21 on the left reel R1, the symbol number PN = 2, 6, 10, 15, or 19 on the middle reel R2, the right reel This is an arrangement of symbols of symbol number PN = 3, 7, 11, 16, or 20 in R3. When a watermelon role is established in a normal game, a BB game, or a CB game, a bell prize is won.

  5) Cherry role This role only needs to stop when the symbol number PN = 13, 18 on the left reel R1 is activated among the winning lines L1 to L5, regardless of the stop position of the other reels. is there. When the cherry role is established in the base game, the BB game, or the CB game, the cherry prize is won.

  6) Plum role This role consists of a symbol number PN = 3, 5, 9, 14, or 19 on the left reel R1, a symbol number PN = 3, 7, 12, 16, or 20 on the middle reel R2, right This is an arrangement of symbols of symbol number PN = 2, 6, 10, 15 or 19 on the reel R3. The role of the plum corresponds to the replay prize of the normal game and the RB prize in the BB game.

<3: Electrical configuration of slot machine>
FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing a control device that controls the game processing operation in the slot machine 1 and a circuit configuration including peripheral devices related to the present invention among those constituting the slot machine 1.

  The control device includes main board 30A and sub board 30B as main components. The main board 30A includes a CPU 31, a clock generation circuit 32, a sequence generation circuit 33, a RAM 34, a ROM 35, a transmission timing control circuit 36, a data transmission circuit 37, an input port 38 and an output port 39.

  The CPU 31 is connected to each component of the main board 30A excluding the transmission timing control circuit 36 via a bus (not shown). The CPU 31 executes the first control program CP1 and controls each component. The first control program CP1 describes how to operate the entire slot machine 1. For this reason, the CPU 31 functions as a control center of the slot machine 1. The clock generation circuit 32 includes an oscillation circuit including a crystal resonator, generates a reference clock signal CLK having a fixed period, and supplies the reference clock signal CLK to the CPU 31 and the number sequence generation circuit 33.

  The sequence generator 33 is composed of a high-speed ring counter, and counts the reference clock signal CLK to generate count data CD. The numerical value range of the count data CD is, for example, 0 to 65535, depending on the contents stored in the prize group lottery table TBL1 described later. The count data CD can be input to the CPU 31 through the input port. The CPU 31 detects the timing when the player depresses the start lever 6 and reads the count data CD through the input port at the timing. Sampling data SD is generated.

  Since the player cannot know the value of the count data CD, the timing at which the start lever 6 is pushed down by the player is random. Therefore, the value of the sampling data SD is equivalent to a value sampled from a random number. Since the sequence generator 33 operates in synchronization with the reference clock signal CLK, the cycle of the count data CD is extremely short. For example, if the frequency of the reference clock signal CLK is 30 MHz, the time required for the value of the count data CD to change from “0” to “65535” is 2.2 msec. Therefore, even if the player can know the value of the count data CD by unauthorized means, it is impossible to cause the CPU 31 to generate sampling data SD having a desired value by operating the start lever 6.

  Next, the RAM 34 functions as a work area of the CPU 31 and stores intermediate results of arithmetic processing, data generated as necessary, flags used for various controls, and the like. For example, internal lottery data ISD indicating the result of the internal lottery is stored in the RAM 34.

  In addition to the first control program CP1, the ROM 35 stores a prize group lottery table group TBL1, a stop table group TBL2, a winning symbol combination table TBL3, and the like. In the winning symbol combination table TBL3, combinations of winning symbol combinations and medal payout numbers for winning combinations are stored in association with each other.

  Since the control of the slot machine 1 requires control according to the difference in game value, it is convenient to classify various roles by paying attention to the game value. In the slot machine 1 of the present embodiment, one prize group is assigned to each combination, but one or more combinations may be assigned to one prize group.

  Next, the prize group lottery table group TBL1 includes a plurality of prize group lottery tables. CPU31 performs internal lottery using the prize group lottery table selected according to the kind of game. As a prize group lottery table, a table used for a normal game, a table used for a BB game, a table used for an RB game, a table used for a CB game, and a table used for an FB game are prepared.

  FIG. 6A shows the stored contents of the prize group lottery table TBL11 for the base game. As shown in this figure, the prize group lottery table TBL11 stores lottery division data in the first to ninth storage areas ADR1 to ADR9, respectively. The value of the lottery category data indicates the width of the lottery category corresponding to each prize group. For example, the lottery classification data stored in the first storage area ADR1 corresponds to the loss, and the value is “59536”. The lottery classification data stored in the ninth storage area ADR9 corresponds to the BB prize, and its value is “200”.

  FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing the operation of the CPU 31 in the internal lottery process using the prize group lottery table TBL11. First, the CPU 31 performs an initialization process (step S1). Specifically, the value of the variable N is reset to “0” and the value stored in the internal register is reset to “0”.

  Next, the CPU 31 stores the sampling data SD in the internal register (step S2), and subsequently changes the value of the variable N to N + 1 (step S3). Thereafter, the CPU 31 reads the lottery classification data from the Nth storage area (step S4). In the process immediately after the initialization process, since the value of the variable N is “1”, the lottery classification data is read from the first storage area ADR1. The value in this case is “59536”.

  Next, the CPU 31 reads the stored contents of the internal register, adds the read data value and the lottery classification data value, and stores the added value in the internal register (step S5). As a result, the content stored in the internal register is updated from the original data value to the added value.

  Next, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the added value is greater than or equal to the reference value (step S6). The reference value is equal to the sum of the values of the lottery classification data stored in the first to ninth storage areas ADR1 to ADR9.

  If the added value is less than the reference value, the CPU 31 returns the process to step S3, and repeats the processes from step S3 to step S6 until the added value becomes equal to or greater than the reference value. When the added value is equal to or greater than the reference value, the CPU 31 advances the process to step S7, determines a prize group according to the value of the variable N, and generates internal lottery data ISD. Specifically, when N = 1, it is a loss, when N = 2, a replay prize, when N = 3, a cherry prize, when N = 4, a bell prize, when N = 5, a single FB prize, when N = 6, a watermelon It is determined that the CB prize is won when N = 7, the RB prize when N = 8, and the BB prize when N = 9. As a result, as shown in FIG. 6, the correspondence between the sampling data SD and the prize group is lost at SD = 65535-6000, replay prize at SD = 5999-4300, cherry prize at SD = 4299-3300, SD = 3299 to 2400 for the Bell Award, SD = 2399 to 1600 for the Single FB Award, SD = 1599 to 900 for the Watermelon Award, SD = 899 to 500 for the CB Award, SD = 499 to 200 for the RB Award SD = 199 to 0 corresponding to the BB prize.

  Then, the CPU 31 generates internal lottery data ISD based on the determination result. The internal lottery data ISD includes the BB award for the first bit, the RB award for the second bit, the CB award for the third bit, the Bell award for the fourth bit, the watermelon award for the fifth bit, the cherry award for the sixth bit, A replay award is assigned to 7 bits and a single FB award is assigned to the 8th bit. If any prize is won by internal lottery, the CPU 31 sets the value of the corresponding bit to “1”, otherwise sets the value of the bit to “0”. Therefore, by referring to the internal lottery data ISD, it is possible to know whether the player has won or lost, and the winning group that has won.

  FIG. 6B shows a prize group lottery table TBL12 selected in the RT game. In this example, except for the replay prize, the width of the lottery division of each prize is equal to that of the base game as shown in the base group prize group lottery table TBL11. Accordingly, the winning probabilities of each prize except for the replay prize are the same in both the RT game and the normal game. On the other hand, the winning probability of the replay prize in the RT game is set to be larger than that in the normal game. In the RT game, the winning probability of losing may be set to “0” and the winning probability of the replay prize may be set higher, or the BB prize, RB prize and CB prize will be drawn. Alternatively, the width of the lottery section corresponding to that amount may be added to the width of the lottery section of the RB award.

  In order for the player to receive medals, it is necessary to win one of the prizes in the internal lottery and operate the reel stop buttons 7a to 7c at a predetermined timing. Therefore, although the payout rate is not determined only by the probability of the internal lottery, the payout rate can be determined to some extent. The payout rate is given as a moving average of the ratio of the total payout number and the total input number in a predetermined number of games. Therefore, when a large number of medals are paid out, the payout rate changes greatly. In the BB game, the number of medals paid out per game is larger than that in the normal game.

  In the RT game, the winning probability of the replay prize is the highest, and in the normal game, most of the lottery division width assigned to the lose is assigned to the replay prize. For this reason, the probability of winning the Replay Award is extremely high. A game that has won a replay award will not be counted as an acquired number because both the IN number and the OUT number will be zero. In other words, it is unrelated to the number obtained. Therefore, since a useless IN number is not generated, a game advantageous to the player can be performed. In addition, as the number of RT games increases, the payout rate approaches “1”. Therefore, when the current payout rate is less than “1”, the payout rate can be increased by executing the RT game.

  In the following description, the first bit of the internal lottery data ISD is called a BB winning flag, and the second bit is called an RB winning flag. Then, setting each flag to “1” is referred to as setting, and setting to “0” is referred to as clear. With regard to a small role, even if a game is won by an internal lottery, no medal will be paid out unless the game is won. However, if the RB prize and the BB prize are won in an internal lottery of a game, the BB prize flag is not cleared until the game is won in the subsequent game without clearing the BB prize flag and the RB prize flag even if the game is not won. And maintain the RB winning flag. This is called carrying over the winning flag. As described above, the internal lottery is executed for each game, and the internal lottery data ISD is generated. The lottery result is valid only in the game except for the winning of the RB prize and the BB prize. Thus, even if the winning flag is carried over, the internal lottery is executed for each game. For example, when the watermelon prize is won in the internal lottery in the game in which the winning flag of the BB prize is carried over, the internal lottery data ISD In this state, the values of the first bit and the fifth bit are set to “1”. Further, if neither game is won in this game, only the fifth bit is cleared to “0” and the first bit remains set to “1”.

  Next, the stop table group TBL2 is composed of a plurality of stop tables. In each stop table, a symbol number PN (symbol number at the reference position) displayed on the central pay line L1 and advancing frame number data indicating the advancing frame number (moving symbol number) are stored in association with each other. . Here, the number of advance frames is a symbol that advances from when the player depresses each of the left / middle / right reel stop buttons 7a, 7b, 7c until the left / middle / right reels R1, R2, R3 stop. A number.

  Since each of the left, middle, and right reels R1, R2, and R3 rotates at high speed, even if the player operates the stop button aiming at a specific symbol, skill is required to stop the desired symbol. There are individual differences in the mastery of the stop button operation. In particular, it is difficult for a player with low moving eyesight to stop a desired symbol. On the other hand, a highly skilled player can operate the stop button when a desired symbol is displayed on the winning line.

  However, in order for a low-skilled player to enjoy the game, it is necessary to make it easy to align the symbols to some extent. On the other hand, when the result of the internal lottery is lost, it is necessary to control the rotation of the reel so that the combination is not established There is. The stop table is used to control such reel rotation. The stop positions of the left, middle, and right reels R1, R2, and R3 are determined with reference to the stop table.

  Returning to FIG. 5, the description will be continued. The transmission timing control circuit 36 and the data transmission circuit 37 shown in the figure transmit to the sub-board 30B information on the type of combination determined by the internal lottery and the stop table selected corresponding to the combination. The sub-board 30B is responsible for processing for notifying the player of predetermined information.

  Next, the input port 38 is an input interface for signals supplied from various sensors described later. On the other hand, the output port 39 is an output interface for supplying control signals to each motor and various devices.

  The main input signal generating means connected to the input port 38 and generating various input signals includes the following. The inserted medal detection sensor 41 detects a medal inserted through the medal slot 5 and generates one output pulse for one medal. Therefore, the CPU 31 can detect the number of inserted medals by counting the output pulses.

  The BET button sensor 42 detects the operation of the BET button 15. The start lever sensor 43 detects the operation of the start lever 6 and outputs a start operation signal 43a. The left / middle / right reel stop button sensors 44, 45, 46 detect the operation of the left / middle / right reel stop buttons 7a, 7b, 7c, respectively, and stop operation signals (44a to 46a) 44a, 45a, 46a, respectively. Output. The left / middle / right reel position detection sensors 47, 48, 49 detect the rotational positions of the left / middle / right reels R1, R2, R3, and generate detection signals 47a, 48b, 49c. The CPU 31 detects these signals and acquires the operation timing of the start lever 6, the operation timings of the reel stop buttons 7a, 7b, and 7c, and the rotation positions of the reels R1, R2, and R3.

  The right reel position detection sensor 49 includes a photocoupler 492, an amplifier, and a comparator shown in FIGS. The photocoupler 492 includes a light emitting unit and a light receiving unit. When the light receiving unit outputs a light reception signal at a level corresponding to the amount of light received, the amplifier amplifies the light reception signal. The comparator compares the output signal of the amplifier with a predetermined threshold value to generate a detection signal 49a, and outputs this as an output signal of the right reel position detection sensor 49. When the right reel R3 rotates, the light shielding piece 491 shown in FIG. 2 passes through the photocoupler 492 once per rotation. Therefore, the rotation position of the right reel R3 can be detected by the detection signal 49a. The left / middle position detection sensors 47 and 48 are configured in the same manner as the right reel position detection sensor 49.

  As main means connected to the output port 39 and supplied with various output signals, there are left, middle and right reel drive motors 51, 52 and 53. The left, middle, and right reel drive motors 51, 52, and 53 are motors that respectively rotate the left, middle, and right reels R1, R2, and R3, and in this example, are constituted by stepping motors. Therefore, the CPU 31 stops the left, middle, and right reels R1, R2, and R3 by adjusting the number of pulses of the drive signals 51, 52a, and 53a supplied to the left, middle, and right reel drive motors 51, 52, and 53. It is possible to determine the position accurately.

  Each of the motors 51, 52, and 53 is configured to rotate once by 400 pulses. As described above, 21 symbols are formed on each of the reels R1, R2, and R3. Of these, 20 symbols advance by 1 pulse with 19 pulses, and 1 symbol advances by 1 pulse with 20 pulses. Further, the CPU 31 counts the number of pulses supplied to the motors 51, 52, and 53, and holds the count result as position data MD1, MD2, and MD3. The values of the position data MD1, MD2, and MD3 are reset when the detection signals 47a, 48a, and 49a become active.

  FIG. 8 is a timing chart showing the relationship between the detection signal 49a, the symbol number PN, the drive signal 53a, and the position data MD3. As shown in this figure, when the detection signal 49a rises from the low level to the high level at time t1, the value of the position data MD3 is reset. Time t1 is timing when the light shielding piece 491 shown in FIG. 3 passes through the photocoupler 492. At this time, as the rotational position of the right reel R3, the symbol (BAR) of the symbol number PN = 1 shown in FIG. 4 is displayed in the middle of the display window 4c. In other words, the mounting position of the light shielding piece 491 and the photocoupler 492 is determined so that the symbol is displayed in the middle of the display window 4c.

  When 20 pulses are supplied to the right reel drive motor 53 as the drive signal 53a in the period from time t1 to time t2, the right reel drive motor 53 rotates the right reel R3 by 1/21. As a result, the symbol (cherry) of symbol number PN = 2 shown in FIG. 4 is displayed in the middle of the display window 4c. Thereafter, the symbols are sequentially displayed in the same manner, and when the time t3 is reached, the right reel R3 makes one rotation and the symbol (BAR) of the symbol number PN = 1 is displayed again. Thus, since the detection signal 49a, the symbol number PN, the drive signal 53a, and the position data MD3 are closely related, the CPU 31 can detect the display state of the symbol based on the position data MD3.

  As for the left reel R1 and the middle reel R2, as with the right reel R3 described above, the CPU 31 can detect the display state of the symbols based on the position data MD1 and MD2.

  FIG. 9 shows an example of the stop table. This stop table is used for drawing a plum symbol into the winning line L1. For example, when the player depresses the left reel stop button 7a, the stop operation signal (44a to 46a) 44a becomes active. The CPU 31 detects this and acquires the symbol number PN. At this time, it is assumed that the symbol number PN is “12”. In this case, the white 7 symbol is approaching the winning line L1. The CPU 31 reads the number of moving frames corresponding to the acquired symbol number PN = 12, from the stop table shown on the left in FIG. 9, and acquires the number of moving frames “2”. Thereafter, the CPU 31 moves the left reel R1 by two frames and stops it. That is, the plum symbol located two frames above the symbol of white 7 is drawn into the winning line L1 and stopped.

  In each stop table shown in FIG. 9, “0” is recorded as the number of moving frames at a location corresponding to the plum symbol. A moving frame number of “0” means that not only the symbol stops at the moment of stop operation, but also moves within the range of less than one symbol from the moment of stop operation and the center position of the symbol overlaps the winning line. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 10A, when the center position Q of the plum symbol is before the activated pay line L1 when the reel stop button is operated, the plum symbol The reel rotates and stops so that the center position Q overlaps the activated pay line L1. On the other hand, when the reel stop button is operated as shown in FIG. 4B, if the center position Q of the plum symbol has gone too far from the activated pay line L1, the bell symbol which is the next symbol is displayed. The reel rotates and stops so as to stop at the winning line L1 for which is enabled. Therefore, when the number of moving frames is “0”, the symbol immediately before reaching the winning line is stopped on the winning line L1 by the rotation of the reel.

  Next, the sub board 30B includes a CPU, a data input circuit, a clock generation circuit, a ROM, a RAM, and a liquid crystal display control circuit 60, and causes the liquid crystal display device 64 to display various effects. The sub-board 30 </ b> B controls turning on / off the left / middle / right backlights 65 to 67 and emits sound effects from the speaker 68.

  The CPU of the sub board 30B receives various commands transmitted from the main board 30A. This command includes internal lottery data ISD and the like. Based on the BB winning flag and CB winning flag of the internal lottery data, the CPU displays an animation and a character on the liquid crystal display device 64 in order to notify the player that the BB prize or CB prize has been won. In addition, a predetermined sound is emitted from the speaker 68 when the start lever 6 is operated.

<4: Overall operation of slot machine>
Next, the overall operation of the slot machine 1 will be described. 11 and 12 are flowcharts showing the operation of the CPU 31 controlling the slot machine 1 from the start to the end of one game. One game period is a period from when a bet operation is accepted until the next bet operation is accepted.

  The CPU 31 determines whether or not the player has made a bet operation based on detection signals from the inserted medal detection sensor 41 and the BET button sensor 42 (step S11). Proceed to S12.

  In step S <b> 12, the CPU 31 determines whether the player has operated the start lever 6 based on the detection signal of the start lever sensor 43. When the player operates the start lever 6, the CPU 31 performs a process for prohibiting a bet operation (step S13). If the bet operation is prohibited, even if the player inserts a medal or operates the BET button 15 during the period until the prohibition is canceled, the acceptance is rejected.

  Next, the CPU 31 sets a prize group lottery table corresponding to the game mode (step S14). Specifically, a table corresponding to the type of game such as a base game, an RB game, a BB game, and an RT game is selected from the prize group lottery table group TBL1. In this case, the CPU 31 refers to the RB game flag, the BB game flag, the RT game flag, and the like stored in the RAM 34, identifies the game type of the game, and selects a table based on the result.

  Next, the CPU 31 executes an internal lottery process using the prize group lottery table TBL1 set in step S14 (step S15). That is, the type of prize group lottery table TBL1 also changes according to the type of game. Thereafter, the CPU 31 determines whether the base game, the BB game, or the RB game is in progress based on a flag (management information) indicating the type of game (step S16). If it is determined that the game is a normal game or a BB game, the CPU 31 advances the process to step S17 to execute a winning flag setting process. The contents of the winning flag setting process are shown. Specifically, as described with reference to FIG. 7, first, the CPU 31 samples the count data CD and obtains the sampling data SD at the timing when the detection signal of the start lever sensor 43 becomes active. To do. Second, the CPU 31 refers to the prize group lottery table and sets a winning flag.

  If it is determined in step S16 that the game is a normal game or a BB game, the CPU 31 advances the process to step S17 and executes a winning flag setting process in the normal game or the BB game shown in FIG. First, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the BB is won (step S40). If it is won, the BB winning flag is set (step S41), and the RT game flag is cleared (step S42). Here, there is a case where the RT game is not necessarily performed, but the process of clearing the flag is performed by omitting the determination as to whether or not the RT game is being performed. This will reduce the program capacity.

  If the BB prize is not won, the CPU 31 determines whether or not it is a single RB win (step S43). If it is won, a single RB win flag is set (step S44), and an RT game flag is set. Clear (step S45). If the single RB award is unsuccessful, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the RB during BB is won (step S46). If the RB award is won, the CPU 31 sets the RB during RB winning flag (step S47), and further RT game. The middle flag is cleared (step S48). Here, there is a case where the RT game is not necessarily performed, but the process of clearing the flag is performed by omitting the determination as to whether or not the RT game is being performed.

  Next, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the bell has been won (step S49). If the bell has been won, a bell winning flag is set (step S53). If the bell has not been won, the process proceeds to step S50. Next, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the watermelon is won (step S50). If the watermelon is won, the CPU 31 sets a watermelon winning flag (step S54). If the watermelon prize is not won, the process proceeds to step S51. Next, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the cherry is won (step S51). If the cherry is won, a cherry winning flag is set (step S55). If the cherry award is not won, the process proceeds to step S52. Next, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the replay is won (step S52), and if it is won, the replay winning flag is set (step S56).

  Next, when it is determined in step S16 shown in FIG. 11 that the RB game is in progress, the CPU 31 advances the process to step S18 to execute a winning flag set process. Specifically, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the JAC is won. If the JAC prize is won, the CPU 31 sets the JAC winning flag. On the other hand, if the JAC prize is not won, the CPU 31 sets the JAC winning flag. The process ends without setting.

  Next, in step S19 shown in FIG. 11, a reel stop data group selection process is executed based on the winning flag of the base game or the BB game set in step S17. FIG. 14 shows processing contents of reel stop data group selection in the base game or the BB game. The CPU 31 refers to the winning flag of the internal lottery data ISD, and the replay winning flag, the watermelon winning flag, the bell winning flag, the cherry winning flag, the BB winning flag, the single RB winning flag, and the RB mid-RB winning flag are set. It is sequentially determined whether or not there are (steps S61 to S67). If the replay winning flag is set, the CPU 31 selects the replay stop data group (step S68). If the watermelon winning flag is selected, the CPU 31 selects the watermelon stop data group (step S69). If the winning flag is set, the stop data group for bell is selected (step S70). If the cherry winning flag is set, the stop data group for cherry is selected (step S71), and the BB winning flag is set. If so, the BB stop data group is selected (step S72). If the single RB win flag is set, the single RB stop data group is selected (step S73), and if the BB win RB win flag is set. A stop data group for RB in BB is selected (step S74). If no winning flag is set, the stop data for losing is selected (step S77).

  FIG. 15 shows the relationship between the loss stop table and the RT game. In the following description, an aspect of a symbol that stops on a winning line that has been activated in a state where the reels R1 to R3 are stopped is referred to as an outcome. The losing stop table is stored in the ROM 35, and is selected by the CPU 31 when the result of the internal lottery is losing. Further, the stop table for losing includes a stop data group A for giving a special outcome, a stop data group B for giving a reach outcome, a stop data group C for giving a chance outcome, and a stop data group D for giving a lose outcome. It is. These stop data groups A to D are further classified into stop data groups for the left, middle and right reels R1 to R3.

  In this embodiment, before the reel stop buttons 7a to 7c are activated and the player's stop operation is accepted, the CPU 31 determines the operation order of the stop operations by lottery. The timing at which the stop operation is accepted differs depending on the model of the slot machine 1, but the reel stop buttons 7a to 7c are not activated unless the start lever 6 is operated. The CPU 31 functions as an enabling unit that enables the reel stop buttons 7a to 7c. Moreover, although CPU31 determines stop operation order in advance, what is necessary is just to perform between step S15 mentioned above and step S16, for example. The CPU 31 detects the actual stop operation order based on the stop operation signals 44a to 46a, and determines whether or not the detected stop operation order matches the stop operation order determined in advance. If they match, the CPU 31 selects the stop data group A for special appearance, while if they do not match, the CPU 31 selects the stop data groups B to D.

  The stop data group A includes stop data AL for the left reel, stop data AC for the middle reel, and stop data AR for the right reel. Further, the stop data AL, the stop data AC, and the stop data AR include stop data for pulling the plum symbol into the activated pay line and stop data for pulling the bell symbol onto the activated pay line. In the following description, the subscript “1” is used for the stop data for pulling the plum symbol, and the subscript “2” is used for the stop data for pulling the bell symbol. For example, the symbol AR2 indicates data for stopping the bell symbol by the right reel R3. As described above, the stop data group A is composed of data for drawing the plum symbol and the bell symbol.

  In the present embodiment, there are three types of special events: “Plum-Plum-Bell”, “Pramui-Bell-Plum”, and “Bell-Plum-Plum”. As will be described later, when the stop data group A for special appearance is selected, the CPU 31 selects the stop table that pulls the plum symbol in the first stop operation, and pulls the plum symbol in the second stop operation. Stop data is selected, and a stop table for pulling in the bell symbol is selected in the third stop operation. When the special outcomes are complete, the number of RT games is determined by lottery, and the next game is shifted to the RT game. However, since the lottery value includes “0”, there is a possibility that the game does not shift to the RT game.

  Returning to FIG. In step S20, a reel stop data group selection process is executed based on the winning flag of the RB game set in step S18. FIG. 16 shows the contents of the reel stop data group selection process in the RB game. The CPU 31 refers to the winning flag of the internal lottery data ISD and determines whether or not the JAC winning flag is set (step S80). Then, the CPU 31 selects the JAC stop data group if the JAC winning flag is set (step S81), and selects the non-winning stop data if the JAC winning flag is not set (step S82). Here, the stop data group for JAC is set so that the plum symbol can be drawn into the central winning line L1 as shown in FIG. More specifically, at the timing when the CPU 31 detects the stop operation signals 44a to 46a, if the plum symbol is within a predetermined number of moving symbols from the winning line L1, the plum symbol is drawn onto the winning line L1. The reels R1 to R3 are controlled so as to be stopped. In the JAC game, only one bet is allowed, so the pay line L1 is an activated pay line. In this example, the number of moving symbols is set to “4”. Accordingly, a plum symbol in the range of 0 frame to 4 frames is drawn into the winning line L1.

  Returning to FIG. When the selection of the above-described reel stop data group is completed, the CPU 31 sets each reel driving flab indicating that the reel is rotating, starts the rotation of the reel (step S21), and has lost the internal lottery? It is determined whether or not (step S22). If it is a loss, a reel rotation stop process for the loss is executed (step S23). On the other hand, in the case of winning, a reel rotation stop process for winning is executed (step S24).

  FIG. 17 shows the contents of the reel rotation stop process for loss. In this embodiment, two patterns are prepared as a reel rotation stop process for loss. In step S90, the CPU 31 executes a lottery to determine which pattern is to be executed. When the first pattern is determined, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the first button stop operation has been performed based on the stop operation signals 44a to 46a (step Sa91).

  When the first stop operation of the reel stop button is detected, the CPU 31 acquires the stop button number (button type) of the currently pressed reel stop buttons 7a to 7c (step Sa92). Then, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the stop operation order determined in advance matches the first stop operation order (step Sa93). If they match, the stop table A for pulling in the plum symbol is selected (step Sa94). On the other hand, if they do not match, the stop table B for losing is selected (step Sa95).

  Next, the CPU 31 obtains the symbol number PN immediately after the stop operation (step Sa96). Specifically, the CPU 31 detects the timing at which the reel stop buttons 7a, 7b, and 7c are pressed based on the stop operation signals 44a to 46a from the reel stop button sensors 44 to 46, and the symbol number PN at the timing. To get. In this example, the stop button number “1” is assigned to the reel stop button 7a, the stop button number “2” is assigned to the reel stop button 7b, and the stop button number “3” is assigned to the reel stop button 7c.

  Next, the CPU 31 acquires the advance frame number (moving symbol number) corresponding to the symbol number from the determined stop table (step Sa97), and then stops the reel that has been stopped based on the advance frame number. (Step Sa98).

  Next, the CPU 31 determines whether or not a second button stop operation has been performed based on the stop operation signals 44a to 46a (step Sa99). If there is a second button stop operation, acquisition of a stop button number ( Step Sa100). Further, it is determined whether or not the pressing order matches (step Sa101). If they match, the plum symbol stop table A is selected, whereas if they do not match, the loss stop table B is selected. Then, the symbol number is acquired (step Sa104), the advance frame number is acquired (step Sa105), and the reel stop (step Sa106) is executed.

  Thereafter, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the third button stop operation has been performed based on the stop operation signals 44a to 46a (step Sa107). If there is a third button stop operation, acquisition of the stop button number ( Step Sa108). Further, it is determined whether or not the pressing order matches (step Sa109). If they match, the bell symbol stop table A is selected (step Sa110). Is selected (step Sa111). Then, the symbol number is acquired (step Sa112), the advance frame number is acquired (step Sa113), and the reel stop (step Sa114) is executed.

  In this example, when the operation sequence of the stop operations from the first to the third match, a combination of plum symbol and bell symbol as shown in the lower right of FIG. it can.

  On the other hand, when the second pattern is determined in the lottery at step S90, the CPU 31 advances the process to step Sb91 shown in FIG. In the first pattern described above, it is determined whether or not the pressing order matches each time the stop operation is performed. In the second pattern, the first stop operation and the second stop operation do not depend on whether the pressing order matches or does not match. The stop table A to which the plum symbol is drawn is selected (steps Sb94 and Sb102). Then, it is determined whether or not the pressing order matches after the third stop operation (step Sb109). If they match, the stop table A for pulling the bell symbol is selected. The stop table B for loss is selected. As in this example, it is determined whether or not the stop operation order matches, and if they match, the stop table A is selected, and if they do not match, the stop table B for losing is selected (steps Sa93 to Sa93). Sa95, steps Sa101 to Sa103, and steps Sa109 to Sa111) can be exemplified as stop data selection means, and a process of stopping a reel that has been stopped based on the number of advance frames obtained according to the symbol number from the determined stop table ( Steps Sa97 to Sa98, steps Sa105 to Sa106, and steps Sa113 to Sa114) can be exemplified as the stop control means.

  In the second pattern, even if the pressing order does not match, the plum symbols will be aligned by the first stop operation and the second stop operation, so the player can expect to be able to receive an RT game lottery The third stop operation can be performed while holding. In addition, the reason why the plum symbol is adopted as the symbol of the special appearance is to make the symbol the same as the replay role corresponding to the replay prize. The replay award is won with a relatively high probability even in a normal game, and control to pull in the plum symbol is performed. Therefore, since the plum symbols are easily arranged in the first stop operation and the second stop operation, whether the replay prize or the replay time game is started is determined depending on whether the plum symbols or the bells are aligned in the third stop. Can be increased. Furthermore, the special-out stop data for stopping the plum symbol can also be used as the replay stop data, so that the storage area can be reduced.

  FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing the contents of the reel rotation stop process for winning (step S24). First, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the first button stop operation has been performed based on the stop operation signals 44a to 46a (step S120).

  When the first stop operation of the reel stop button is detected, the CPU 31 acquires the stop button number (button type) of the currently pressed reel stop buttons 7a to 7c (step S121), and the pattern immediately after the stop operation is obtained. The number PN is acquired (step S122). Specifically, the CPU 31 detects the timing at which the reel stop buttons 7a, 7b, and 7c are pressed based on the stop operation signals 44a to 46a from the reel stop button sensors 44 to 46, and the symbol number PN at the timing. To get. In this example, the stop button number “1” is assigned to the reel stop button 7a, the stop button number “2” is assigned to the reel stop button 7b, and the stop button number “3” is assigned to the reel stop button 7c.

  Next, the CPU 31 limits the usable stop data table group from the selected stop data table group based on the RT game flag, internal lottery data ISD, stop button number, symbol number PN, and the like ( In step S124), a combination of stop data tables for each stop operation order is specified. When there are a plurality of combinations, the CPU 31 specifies a combination of stop tables to be used by lottery or the like. When there are not a plurality of combinations, the combinations are specified. As a result, the CPU 31 determines one stop data table used for the first stop of the reel (step S125). In this example, when the RT game flag is set as described above, the stoppage table for the small role award or the replay prize is selected in preference to the stop table for the BB prize. This also applies to the second stop operation and the third stop operation.

  Next, the CPU 31 acquires the advance frame number (moving symbol number) corresponding to the symbol number from the determined stop table (step S126), and then stops the reel that has been stopped based on the advance frame number. (Step S127).

  Next, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the second button stop operation has been performed based on the stop operation signals 44a to 46a (step 128). If there is a second button stop operation, the stop button number is acquired ( In step S129), the symbol number is acquired (step S130), the stop table corresponding to the second stop of the reel is determined from the combination of the stop tables specified in step S124 (step S131), and the advance frame number is acquired (step S132). ) And reel stop (step S133). Thereafter, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the third button stop operation has been performed based on the stop operation signals 44a to 46a (step S134). If there is a third button stop operation, acquisition of the stop button number ( In step S135), the symbol number is acquired (step S136), the stop table corresponding to the third stop of the reel is determined from the combination of the stop tables specified in step S124 (step S137), and the advance frame number is acquired (step S138). ) And reel stop (step S139). As described above, the CPU 31 selects a stop table used for stop control from among a plurality of stop tables according to the type of game, the result of the internal lottery, and the order of the stop operation of the reel stop button. When the internal lottery data ISD indicates winning, the CPU 31 that executes the reel stop control process described above allows the symbol set corresponding to the winning prize to stop on the activated winning line and wins the winning prize. If the combination of symbols corresponding to other prizes is prohibited from stopping on the activated pay lines L1 to L5, and the internal lottery data indicates a loss, the symbol combinations corresponding to all prizes are activated. It functions as stop control means for stopping variable display of each reel (a plurality of display columns) so as to prohibit the stop on the winning lines L1 to L5.

  Returning to FIG. When the reel rotation stop process is completed, the CPU 31 determines whether or not a replay prize has been won (step S25). If a reel is won, the replay winning flag is cleared (step S26), and the process returns to step S12. On the other hand, if the replay prize has not been won, the CPU 31 determines whether the game type is a normal game, a BB game, or an RB game (step S27). Then, the CPU 31 advances the process to step S28 if the base game or the BB game is in progress, and advances the process to step S29 if the RB game, and executes a winning determination process. Thereafter, a one-game end process is executed (step S30), and then the prohibition of the BET operation is canceled (step S31), and the one-game process is ended.

  Next, with reference to FIG. 20, the winning determination process of the base game and the BB game described above will be described. In this process, by comparing the symbols on each active line of each stopped reel with the combination of symbols assigned to each award, it is sequentially determined whether or not a watermelon, bell, or cherry award was won. A determination is made (steps S140 to S142), and each unit is controlled so as to pay out the number of medals corresponding to the winning prize with reference to the winning symbol combination table TBL3 (steps S143 to S145).

  Next, the CPU 31 determines whether or not it is a single RB win (step S146). If it is a single RB win, the medal is paid out (step S147), and further an RB game start process is executed (step S148). . In this process, the CPU 31 sets an RB game flag and sets the number of JAC winnings. For example, 8 times. Next, the CPU 31 sets the number of JAC games. For example, 12 times.

  If the determination condition is negative in step S146, the CPU 31 advances the process to step S149 to determine whether or not the BB winning is in BB. Specifically, the determination condition is affirmed when the BB game flag is set and the RB winning flag is set, and otherwise the determination condition is denied. If the determination condition is affirmed, the CPU 31 pays out medals assigned to the RB award (step S150) and executes an RB start process (step S151). Since the RB start process in step S151 is the same as that in step S148, description thereof is omitted.

  On the other hand, if the determination condition in step S149 is negative, the CPU 31 advances the process to step S152 to determine whether or not the BB game is in progress (step S152). Specifically, the determination condition is affirmed when the BB game flag is set, and the determination condition is denied otherwise. If the determination condition is affirmed, the CPU 31 executes a BB game end determination process (step S153).

  FIG. 21 shows the contents of the BB game end determination process. In this process, the CPU 31 determines whether or not a medal has been paid out (step S180). If there has been a medal payout, the CPU 31 adds the acquired number of games to the acquired number of BB games (step S181). If no medal is paid out in the game, the process of step S181 is omitted, and when the process of step S181 ends, the CPU 31 advances the process to step S182 to determine whether or not the acquired medal number exceeds the reference number. Determine. Note that the number of acquired medals is calculated by adding the number of medals paid out by the CPU 31 during the period from the start of the BB game to the current game. In this sense, the CPU 31 functions as an acquired quantity calculating means for calculating the acquired medal number (acquired quantity). Here, the predetermined number X1 is X1 = MAXbb−, where X1 is the maximum acquisition number MAXbb allowed for the entire BB game, and Z1 is the maximum acquisition number that can be acquired in one game (next one game) in the BB game. Given by Z1. In the example shown in FIG. 22, the maximum number of allowed MAXbb allowed for the entire BB game is 465, and the maximum number of medals that can be acquired in one game in the BB game is 15. Therefore, 450 sheets becomes the reference number. By setting the reference number in this way, it is possible to determine whether or not there is a possibility that the maximum acquired number MAXbb will be exceeded in the next game when the game is finished.

  If the number of acquired medals exceeds 450 and the determination condition in step S182 is negative, the CPU 31 advances the process to step S183, and displays the number of acquired medals during the BB game (step S183). On the other hand, when the number of acquired medals exceeds 450, the BB game flag is cleared (step S184), and it is further determined with reference to the RB game flag whether the RB game is being played (step S185). ) If the RB game is in progress, the RB game flag is cleared (step S186). Thereby, during the period when the RB game is won and the RB game is executed during the BB game, even if the original end condition of the RB game is not reached, the RB game is interrupted if the acquired medal number exceeds the reference number Is possible. If the RB prize is won during the BB game, an RB game start process (step S148) is performed. If it is determined that the reference number is exceeded in the game won the RB prize, the BB game flag is cleared. Since the RB game flag is cleared (S186), the BB game can be controlled to be finished without executing the RB game. Note that, during the single RB game that is not in the BB game, the determination condition of S152 is denied, so the RB game is not terminated without starting the RB game. Further, the CPU 31 that executes the process of step S182 functions as a comparison unit that compares the number of acquired medals (acquired quantity) with a reference number (reference quantity) smaller than the maximum acquired number of sheets MAXbb (predetermined quantity). Further, the CPU 31 that executes the processing of step S184 to step S186 refers to the comparison result of the comparison means, and when the acquired medal number (acquired quantity) exceeds the reference number (reference quantity), the BB game in the current game It functions as a game state management means for ending (specific game) and shifting the game state from the next game to the normal game.

  In the BB game end determination process, the maximum acquired number MAXbb may be fixed, but the slot machine 1 of the present embodiment adjusts the maximum acquired number MAXbb according to the payout rate. In the BB game, the winning probability of the RB award is higher than that in the normal game, so the number obtained per unit game is large. Therefore, the payout rate is high during the BB game. From the viewpoint of suppressing the player's happiness, it is preferable to set a certain limit on the payout rate. If an upper limit is set for the payout rate, the upper limit may be exceeded if the BB prize is won in a short period of time. Therefore, by adjusting the value of the maximum acquired number MAXbb according to the payout rate, it is possible to adjust so as not to exceed the upper limit of the payout rate. In this case, it is preferable to calculate the ratio of the total OUT number with respect to the total IN number as a payout rate, and to determine the maximum acquired number MAXbb so as not to exceed the maximum payout rate.

  Further, as described above, the reference number is set to a value obtained by subtracting the maximum medal number that can be acquired in the next game from the maximum acquired number MAXbb. For example, it is assumed that the JAC award is 15 in the RB in the BB, the maximum award of the award of the BB game other than the RB game is 12, and the maximum number of winning MAXbb is 465. In this case, in the RB in BB, as shown in FIG. 22, the reference number is 450 sheets obtained by subtracting 15 sheets from the maximum acquired number. In this case, the acquired number of games in the immediately preceding game is 450 or less, and the acquired number of games in the current game is allowed to be 450 to 465. On the other hand, if the next game is a BB game other than the RB game, the reference number is 453, which is obtained by subtracting 12 from the maximum number obtained as shown in FIG. Accordingly, the number of acquired games in the immediately preceding game is 453 or less, and the number of acquired games in the current game is allowed to be 453 to 465.

  The description returns to FIG. If it is determined in step S152 that the BB game is not being played, the CPU 31 advances the process to step S154 to determine whether or not a BB prize has been won. If the BB prize is won, a predetermined number of medals are paid out (step S155), and a BB game start process is executed (step S156). FIG. 24 shows details of the BB game start process. As shown in the figure, the CPU 31 sets a flag during the BB game (step S187), and clears the acquisition number count during the BB game (step S188). Thereby, the accumulation of the number of acquisitions from the next game is executed.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S154 that the BB winning is not met, the CPU 31 advances the process to step S157 to determine whether or not the RT game is in progress. Specifically, the determination condition is affirmed when the RT game flag is set, and the determination condition is denied otherwise. If the determination condition is affirmed, the CPU 31 executes an RT game end determination process (step S158). On the other hand, if it is not during the RT game, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the outcome is the RT start outcome (step S159), and if it is the RT start outcome, the RT game start process is executed (step S160). On the other hand, if it is not the start of RT, the winning determination process is terminated.

  FIG. 25 shows the contents of the RT game start process. First, the CPU 31 executes a lottery for the number of RT games (step S190). In this example, one is selected from 0, 2, 5, 10, 50, 75, 100, 150, and 200 as shown in FIG. Including the case in which the RT game is not started even if the RT starts, the game is more attractive because it is surprising. In such a case, if a special process is provided in order not to execute the RT game, the processing load increases. In this regard, the process can be simplified by including 0 times in the lottery targets.

  Thereafter, the CPU 31 executes an addition process for the number of RT games (step S191). In this process, when an RT start appears during an RT game, the number of RT games won by lottery is added to the number of remaining RT games to obtain a new RT game number. Next, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the number of games is “0” (step S192). If the RT game count is not “0”, the RT game flag is set (step S193). If the RT game count is “0”, the process is terminated without setting the RT game flag.

  FIG. 26 shows the contents of the RT game end process. First, the CPU 31 subtracts the RT game number by “1” to obtain a new RT game number (step S194). The number of RT games is stored in a predetermined storage area of the RAM 34. Next, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the remaining number of RT games is “0” (step S195). If the RT game count is “0”, the RT game in-progress flag is cleared (step S196). If the RT game count is not “0”, the remaining RT game count is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 64. In this example, when the RT game is started while the RT game is continued, the extra process is executed. However, the RT game may be replaced with a newly determined number of RT games or the RT game may be terminated. Good. Further, as described with reference to FIG. 13, when the BB award, the single RB award, or the RB in-BB award is won, the RT game is ended by clearing the RT game flag.

  Next, the winning determination process (step S29 in FIG. 12) in the RB game will be described with reference to FIG. First, the CPU 31 determines whether or not it is a JAC prize (step S200). If it is a JAC prize, a predetermined number of medals are paid out (step S201). It is determined whether the medal payout process ends, or if it is not a JAC prize, it is during the RB game (step S202). If the RB game flag is set, the CPU 31 determines that the RB game is being played, advances the process to step S203, and executes an RB game end determination process.

  FIG. 28 is a flowchart showing details of the RB game end determination process. As shown in the figure, the CPU 31 first determines whether or not it is a JAC prize (step S210). If it is a JAC prize, the JAC prize number is subtracted by "1" (step S211), and the number of JAC prizes is further increased. Is determined to be “0” (step S212). If the JAC winning number is “0”, the CPU 31 clears the RB game flag (step S217). On the other hand, if the JAC winning number is not “0”, the CPU 31 displays the remaining number of the JAC winning numbers (step S213), and subtracts the JAC game number by “1” (step S214). If the JAC prize is not won, the CPU 31 skips the processing from step S211 to step S213, and proceeds from step S210 to step S214. Thereafter, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the remaining number of JAC games is “0” (step S214). If it is “0”, the RB game flag is cleared (step S217), while it must be “0”. For example, the remaining number of JAC games is displayed (step S216).

  Returning to FIG. When the above-described RB game end determination process ends, or when the RB game flag is cleared and the determination condition in step S202 is negative, the CPU 31 sets whether the BB game is in progress or not. The determination is made with reference to (step S204). When the BB game flag is set, the CPU 31 determines that the BB game is being played, advances the process to step S205, and executes a BB game end determination process. On the other hand, if the BB game flag is cleared, the CPU 31 determines that the BB game is not in progress and ends the RB game winning determination process. Since the BB game end determination processing has already been described with reference to FIG.

  Here, even if the JAC prize is won during the RB game in the BB game, if it is determined that the reference number is exceeded in the BB game end determination process (S205), the BB game flag is cleared (S184). ) And the RB game in-progress flag is cleared (S186), it is possible to control to end the BB game even when the original end condition of the RB game has not been reached. Note that, during the single RB game that is not in the BB game, the determination condition of S204 is denied, so the RB game is not interrupted in the middle of the RB game.

  Next, the one-game end process (step S30 in FIG. 12) will be described. FIG. 29 is a flowchart showing the processing contents of one game end processing. The CPU 31 sequentially determines whether or not the replay winning flag, the watermelon winning flag, the bell winning flag, and the cherry winning flag are set (steps S240 to S243), and clears the set winning flags (steps S245 to S248). ). Next, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the BB winning flag is set (step S249). If the BB winning flag is set, the CPU 31 further determines whether or not the BB prize is won (step S250). If the BB winning flag is won, the BB winning flag is cleared (step S251). On the other hand, if no prize has been won, it is carried over to the next game without clearing the BB winning flag.

  Next, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the single RB winning flag is set (step S252). If the single RB winning flag is set, the CPU 31 further determines whether or not the RB prize has been won (step S253). If the single RB winning flag has been won, the single RB winning flag is cleared (step S254). . On the other hand, if no winning is made, it is carried over to the next game without clearing the single RB winning flag.

  Thereafter, the CPU 31 sequentially determines whether the RB winning flag during BB and the JAC winning flag are set (steps S255 and S257), and clears the set winning flag (steps S256 and S268).

<5. Modification>
Although the present invention has been described with reference to the most practical and preferred embodiments at the present time, the invention is limited to the embodiments disclosed herein. However, the present invention can be changed as appropriate without departing from the scope or spirit of the invention that can be read from the claims and the entire specification, and a gaming machine and a control method therefor are also included in the technical scope of the present invention. Must be understood as being. For example, the following modifications are naturally included in the present invention.

  (1) In the above-described embodiment, the reel stop control is executed so that a special outcome is obtained when the operation order of the reel stop buttons 7a to 7c matches the operation order determined in advance, and the RT game is started. did. In this case, since three stop buttons are used, the operation order is six. However, the operation order may be determined according to the type of the first operated stop button. In this case, there are three. Alternatively, it may be determined by the type of the stop button operated last.

  Furthermore, the selection parameter may be increased by combining the type of the operated button and the operation timing. For example, by generating a reference signal of several KHz and identifying whether the stop button is operated during the high level period of the reference signal or the stop button is operated during the low level period, six patterns obtained in the operation sequence are obtained. May be handled in 12 ways.

  In addition, it may be determined whether or not to start the RT start by lottery regardless of the operation order. In this case, the reel stop data group selection process in the base game may be as shown in FIG. In this example, a lottery is executed in step S75, and if this is won, a stop data group for RT symbols is selected (step S76).

  (2) In the above-described embodiment, the plum symbol and the bell symbol constituting the RT start outcome as the RT game start condition are arranged in the retractable range in each reel, and the stop table A is selected. In some cases, these symbols are drawn 100%, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the stop table A may be configured as shown in FIG. In this example, in the left reel, the range of symbol numbers PN = 13 to 18 is a range in which the plum symbol can be drawn, and in the middle reel, the range of symbol numbers PN = 7 to 12 is the range in which the plum symbol is drawn. It is possible. Further, in the right reel, a range of symbol numbers PN = 7 to 12 is a range in which a bell symbol can be drawn. When such a stop table is employed, the RT start symbols can be aligned or not according to the skill of the player, so that the game's preference is improved. For each reel, a stop table for a plum symbol and a stop table for a bell symbol with a limited pull-in range may be provided, and these may be selected according to the stop operation sequence.

  (2) In the above-described embodiment or example of a stranger, the number of RT games is determined by lottery, but the CPU 31 calculates the number of balls to be played and the process of determining the number of RT games according to the calculated number of balls to be played. May be executed. Furthermore, when the number of RT games is executed by lottery, the winning probability of each number may be changed according to the calculated payout rate.

  The payout rate is the ratio of the total number of medals paid out to the total number of medals inserted within a predetermined number of games in the past. The former is called the total number of medals IN, and the latter is called the total number of medals OUT. In order to calculate the payout rate, a game number counting process, a medal IN number counting process, and a medal OUT number counting process are executed for each game. In the game number counting process, the count value of the game counter is incremented by “1”, and it is determined whether or not the count value of the game counter is equal to “400”. If the count value is “400”, the CPU 31 clears the count value of the game counter and returns it to “0”. On the other hand, if the count value of the game counter is less than 400, the process ends. Therefore, the count value of the game counter circulates from “0” to “399”. “400” as a determination criterion is set so as to be the number of past games as a basis for calculating the payout rate. In this example, the payout rate is calculated based on the game results of the past 400 games. In addition, a dedicated ring counter may be provided as a game counter, but in this example, this is realized by a program. In this case, a predetermined storage area of the RAM 34 is used as a game counter, and the count value of the game counter stored in the storage area is updated for each game.

  FIG. 32 shows the processing contents of the medal IN number counting process and the medal OUT number counting process. As shown in the figure, these processes proceed while reading / writing data from / to a predetermined storage area of the RAM 34. The RAM 34 has a storage area 341 for storing the total IN number, a storage area 342 for storing the count value of the game counter, a storage area 343 for storing the number of inserted medals IN and the number of paid-out medals OUT in each of the past 400 games, and A storage area 344 for storing the total OUT number is provided.

  FIG. 33 shows a detailed configuration of the storage area 343. The storage area 343 is configured as a so-called ring buffer. In one stage of the ring buffer, 8-bit data is stored, IN data indicating the number of inserted sheets is stored from the 0th bit b0 to the 3rd bit b3, and from the 4th bit b4. OUT data indicating the number of payouts is stored up to the seventh bit b7. Each storage area of the ring buffer is associated with the count value of the game counter. In this example, addresses of 400 storage areas are allocated from 2000H to 218FH, and the lower bits of the address match the count value of the game counter. Therefore, it is possible to immediately generate a buffer pointer indicating the ring buffer address from the count value of the game counter.

  In the medal IN number counting process shown in FIG. 32, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the game is a replay game (step S350), and if the replay prize is won, the number of insertions is set to “0” (step S351). Then, the process proceeds to step S352. On the other hand, if the replay prize is not won, the CPU 31 skips the process of step S51 and advances the process to step S352.

  In step S352, the CPU 31 adds the new insertion number, which is the number of medals inserted in the game, to the total IN number read from the storage area 341, and writes this in the storage area 341. As a result, the total IN number is updated. Next, the CPU 31 reads the count value of the game counter from the storage area 342, and calculates a buffer pointer based on the count value (step S353).

  Next, the CPU 31 reads and acquires the old inserted number stored in the storage area indicated by the buffer pointer (step S354), and writes the new inserted number in the storage area (step S355). Subsequently, the CPU 31 updates the total IN number by subtracting the old insertion number from the total IN number (step S356).

  Next, the medal OUT number counting process will be described with reference to FIG. The CPU 31 first accesses the storage area 344 of the RAM 34, reads the total OUT number, adds the new payout number to this, and writes it in the storage area 344 (step S360). Next, the CPU 31 reads the count value of the game counter from the storage area 342, and calculates a buffer pointer based on the count value (step S361).

  Next, the CPU 31 reads out and acquires the old payout number stored in the storage area designated by the buffer pointer (step S362), and writes the new payout number in the storage area (step S363). Subsequently, the CPU 31 subtracts the old payout number from the total OUT number, writes it in the storage area 344, and updates the total OUT number (step S364).

  In this example, a ring buffer is provided as the storage area 343 of the RAM 34, and 4-bit IN data and 4-bit OUT data are stored in the one-stage buffer. However, as shown in FIG. 34, only the OUT data is stored in the one-stage buffer. May be stored, and storage of IN data may be omitted. For example, in a slot machine that allows only three bets at the start of one game, the number of inserted 400 games is 1200, and it is not necessary to store the number of inserted games for each game. The number of sheets may be fixed to 1200 sheets. In addition, storage of IN data may be omitted even in a slot machine that allows only three bets in the base game and the BB game and only one bet in the RB game. In this case also, the total IN number is fixed to 1200 in calculating the payout rate. There is an error compared with the case where both the IN data and OUT data are stored and the output rate is calculated. However, since 4 bits of OUT data for two games can be stored in one buffer, the ring buffer The storage area 343 of the RAM 34 can be halved, and the storage area can be saved.

  In addition, a storage area 341 for storing the total IN number, a storage area 342 for storing the count value of the game counter, a storage area 343 for storing the number of inserted medals IN and the number of payout medals OUT in each of the past 400 games, and the total OUT In the storage area 344 for storing the number of sheets, the RAM 34 is preferably backed up by a battery or the like so that the stored value can be saved even when the power is turned off. It is preferable that a predetermined value is set as an initial value in advance so that the buffer value does not become unstable when the power is turned on for the first time.

  Further, in the above-described modification, the IN number for the replay winning is counted as it is, and the number of the next replay game is set to “0” (step S351), but the number of the replay winning game is set to zero. Then, the number of replay games that can be executed under the same conditions as the immediately preceding game may be set to the number of immediately preceding game, for example, three. In this case, both the IN number and OUT number of the replay-winned game are zero. Specifically, the CPU 31 may execute the medal IN number counting process shown in FIG. First, the CPU 31 determines whether or not a replay prize has been won (step S400). If the replay prize is won, the number of insertions is stored in a predetermined storage area of the RAM 34 (step S401), and the number of insertions of the game is set to “0” (step S402). On the other hand, if the replay prize is not won, steps S401 and S402 are omitted. Next, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the game is a replay game (step S403). If the game is a replay game, the CPU 31 reads out the number of games that have won the replay award from a predetermined storage area of the RAM 34, The number of games inserted is set (step S404). On the other hand, if the game is not a replay game, the process of step S404 is omitted. Thereafter, the CPU 31 calculates the total number of IN sheets (step S405). Note that the processing in step S405 is the same as the processing in steps S352 to S356.

  (3) Although the embodiment described above relates to the slot machine, the present invention can also be understood as a game program or a game machine imitating the slot machine described above. In this case, instead of the reels R1 to R3, the images of the reels R1 to R3 may be displayed on the display, and their operations may be controlled according to the game program. Further, the present invention can be applied to a video slot for displaying an image of a reel on a display such as a liquid crystal display device instead of the mechanical reels R1 to R3.

  (4) Although the slot machine of the above-described embodiment or modification employs a medal as a game medium, it may employ a pachinko ball and a medal. In this case, the conversion number of medals and pachinko balls may be determined in advance, and the number of pachinko balls may be converted into the number of medals according to the conversion number and stored electronically as credits. For example, five pachinko balls may be assigned per medal.

  (5) In the slot machine of the above-described embodiment or modification, when one game is defined from a bet operation in which a player inserts medals to a bet operation of the next game in order to start a certain game, This process proceeds by sequentially executing the processes. The CPU 31 controls such that the time from a predetermined process to a predetermined process of the next one game exceeds a predetermined time among a plurality of processes of one game. Thereby, it is possible to prevent a large amount of medals from being consumed in a short time. However, since the replay game does not require insertion of medals, for the replay game in the BB game, the CPU 31 may invalidate the above-described time management to shorten the time of one game.

  (6) In the above-described embodiment and modification, the RB game has been described as executing a JAC game. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and a unit game compared to a normal game. As long as the expected value of the number of medals that can be obtained by the player is large, any value may be used. For example, the winning probability of the internal lottery of the small role prize may be higher than that of the normal game.

  (7) In the above-described embodiment and modification, the above-described stop table selection process for the RT start / out is performed when the internal lottery result belongs to any of the lottery categories for loss as shown in FIG. May be executed. Further, as shown in FIG. 36B, when the internal lottery result belongs to a predetermined section in the lottery category for the loss, the above-described stop table selection process for the RT start / out may be executed. In addition, as shown in FIG. 36C, when the internal lottery result belongs to the RT prize lottery section, the above-described stop table selection process for RT start / out may be executed. Or, as shown in FIG. 36 (D), when the internal lottery result belongs to all or a predetermined section in the lottery category of lose, and when it belongs to all or a predetermined section of the lottery section of the replay prize You may perform the stop table selection process for RT start appearance mentioned above. In this case, when the re-game prize is won and the outcome of the plum-plum-bell is reached, the RT game is started.

  (8) In the embodiment and the modification described above, the CPU 31 performs an operation determined in advance when the stop data group A capable of stopping the RT start symbol as the RT game start condition is selected. The order may be notified to the liquid crystal display device 64 or the like. In this case, the CPU 31 calculates the payout rate by the above-described method, compares the calculated payout rate with a predetermined specified value, detects that the payout rate is below the specified value, The operation order may be notified.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing an appearance of the slot machine 1 according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing left / middle / right reels R1, R2, R3 and peripheral configuration. It is a perspective view which shows the detailed structure of right reel R3 and a peripheral part. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the symbol displayed on the left / middle / right reels R1, R2, and R3. 2 is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration of the slot machine 1. FIG. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the memory content of prize group lottery table TBL11 and TBL12. It is a flowchart which shows operation | movement of CPU31 in an internal lottery process. It is a timing chart which shows the relationship between the detection signal 49a, symbol number PN, drive signal 53a, and position data MD3. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of a stop table. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the behavior of a reel in case the moving frame number is 0. FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing an overall operation of a CPU 31. FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing an overall operation subsequent to FIG. 10. FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the processing content of the winning flag set process in a normal game. It is a flowchart which shows the processing content of the reel stop data group selection process in a normal game. It is explanatory drawing which shows the relationship between the stop table for losing and RT game. It is a flowchart which shows the processing content of the reel stop data group selection process in RB game. It is a flowchart which shows the processing content of the reel stop control for lose. FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing processing details of a reel stop control for loss following FIG. 17. FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the processing content of the reel stop control for winning. It is a flowchart which shows the processing content of the winning determination process in a normal game. It is a flowchart which shows the processing content of BB game completion | finish determination processing. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the relationship between a reference | standard number of sheets and the largest acquisition number of sheets. It is explanatory drawing which shows the other example of the relationship between a reference | standard number of sheets and the largest acquisition number of sheets. It is a flowchart which shows the processing content of a BB game start process. It is a flowchart which shows the processing content of RT game start processing. It is a flowchart which shows the processing content of RT game completion processing. It is a flowchart which shows the processing content of the winning determination process in RB game. It is a flowchart which shows the processing content of RB game completion | finish determination processing. It is a flowchart which shows the content of 1 game completion | finish processing. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the reel stop data group selection process which concerns on a modification. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structural example of the stop table which concerns on a modification. It is a flowchart which shows the processing content of a medal IN number count process and a medal OUT number count process. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing a detailed configuration of a storage area 343. FIG. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structure of the ring buffer which concerns on a modification. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the IN sheet count process which concerns on a modification. It is explanatory drawing which shows the relationship between the lottery division of the internal lottery which concerns on a modification, and the stop table selection for RT start items.

Explanation of symbols

1 Slot machine 6 Start levers 7a, 7b, 7c Reel stop button 31 CPU
34 RAM
35 ROM
R1-R3 Left / Middle / Right reel

Claims (4)

A plurality of display columns for cyclically variably displaying a plurality of types of symbols;
In a state where variable display of the plurality of display columns is stopped, among a plurality of winning lines crossing the plurality of display columns, the arrangement of symbols stopped on the activated winning line is a predetermined stop mode. A game value giving means for winning any one of the awards and adding a game value according to the winning prize;
A plurality of stop operation means each provided corresponding to the plurality of display columns, each outputting a stop operation signal corresponding to a stop operation of the player;
Enabling means for enabling the plurality of stop operation means for each game so as to accept the stop operation;
Lottery means for determining one of a plurality of prizes and loses by lottery for each game, and generating lottery information indicating the winning prize or lose;
First stop data that is used in the process of stopping the variable display and that can control each of the display columns so as to be a specific stop mode among the stop modes corresponding to the loss, and the specific stop among the stop modes corresponding to the loss Stop data storage means storing second stop data capable of controlling the display columns so as to be in a stop mode other than the mode;
Prior determination means for determining in advance the stop operation order of the plurality of stop operation means before the enabling means enables the plurality of stop operation means;
An operation order detecting means for detecting a stop operation order of the plurality of stop operation means based on each stop operation signal;
A determination unit that determines whether or not the operation order determined by the prior determination unit and the operation order detected by the operation order detection unit match;
When the lottery information indicates a loss and the determination result of the determination means indicates a match, the first stop data is selected, and when the lottery information indicates a loss and the determination result of the determination means indicates a mismatch Stop data selection means for selecting the second stop data;
Stop control means for stopping the variable display of each display row according to the selected stop data;
A slot machine characterized by comprising: The specific stop mode is composed of a plurality of common symbols having a common symbol type and one special symbol having a different symbol type from the common symbol,
The first stop data includes special stop data for stopping the special symbol on the activated pay line and common stop data for stopping the common symbol on the activated pay line.
The stop data selection means selects the special stop data in the last stop operation when the lottery information indicates a loss and the determination result of the determination means indicates coincidence, and the common stop in the stop operation other than the last The slot machine according to claim 1, wherein data is selected.   3. The slot machine according to claim 1, further comprising a notifying unit that detects that a predetermined condition is satisfied and notifies the operation order determined by the pre-determining unit. The notification means includes
A payout rate calculating means for calculating a payout rate in a past game by a predetermined number from the immediately preceding game;
Comparing the calculated payout rate with a predetermined specified value and notifying the operation order determined by the pre-determining means when the payout rate is lower than the specified value, The slot machine according to claim 3.

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