JP2006043484A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To render a game sufficiently amusing by announcing an occurrence probability of a special game to a game player while a balance of benefits between the game player and a parlor is maintained in a game machine (e.g., a slot machine) conducting the special game (e.g., a big-bonus game) more beneficial to the game player than a common game based on the occurrence probability predetermined. <P>SOLUTION: The game machine is provided with a setting switch 46 for setting the occurrence probability of the big-bonus game in a plurality of grades and an announcing means for announcing the specified value to the game player. The announcing means consists of a reel lamp 44 that is able to generate light in a plurality of light generation patterns, illuminating a pattern visualized through a display window, through the inside of a reel, and announcing the specified value specified by the switch 46 to the game player by changing the light pattern (displaying L or H) in the lamp 44 based on the specified value specified by the switch 46. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2006,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine such as a slot machine, a pachinko machine, a pachislot machine, and the like, and more particularly, to a gaming machine that can notify a player of an estimate of the probability of occurrence of a special game.

  A conventional gaming machine will be described by taking a slot machine as a typical gaming machine as an example.

  In the current slot machine, a game can be started by inserting a game medal. When the player operates the start switch after the game start conditions are satisfied, the plurality of reels rotate and the plurality of symbols drawn on the reel surface move at high speed. Thereafter, when the player operates a stop switch corresponding to each reel, the rotation of each reel is stopped, and a plurality of symbols drawn on the reel surface are stopped and displayed.

  Here, when the combination of symbols that are stopped and displayed becomes a predetermined combination, a game medal as a prize can be paid out, or a special game called a so-called big bonus game can be performed.

  By the way, each reel stops based on the operation of the stop switch by the player, but the stop position of each reel is not determined based only on the operation timing of the stop switch. That is, in the slot machine, the control device is controlled to generate a winning mode with a preset probability of occurrence, and the symbol stop display mode is only relevant when the control device permits the generation of the winning mode. The reel rotation and stop are controlled so that a winning mode is achieved.

This is to balance the profits of the player and the profits of the amusement store, and to eliminate the difference in the gaming technique between the players and to make the game fair. For example, a big bonus game which is a special game Can be set in 6 stages in the range of 1/240 to 1/300, and the control device controls the rotation and stop of the reel based on the set occurrence probability, thereby A game is being generated.
In addition, what was described in the following patent documents as a prior art is known.
Japanese Examined Patent Publication No. 7-73623 JP 7-68027 A

  By the way, a player has a desire to know the probability of occurrence of a special game in each gaming machine in order to play a game more advantageously. That is, if the player can know the probability of occurrence of a special game in each gaming machine, the player can increase the expectation for the occurrence of the special game, and can further enjoy the game.

  The present invention has been made in view of such circumstances, and in a gaming machine that allows a player to play a special game that is advantageous to a player based on a preset probability of occurrence, the probability of occurrence of the special game is reduced. It is an object of the present invention to provide a gaming machine that allows a player to fully enjoy the joy of gaming by notifying the player.

  In addition, when the occurrence probability of a special game in each gaming machine is informed to the player in detail, there is a possibility that the game will be performed only on the gaming machine advantageous to the player, and the profit of the player and the profit of the gaming store There is a possibility that the balance will be lost. If the player's profit and the amusement shop's profit cannot be balanced, a healthy game cannot be performed. On the other hand, if a player can guess to a certain extent what kind of special game occurrence probability the gaming machine is playing, select a gaming machine that is assumed to have a higher occurrence probability. By playing a game, it can be said that the enjoyment of the game on the gaming machine is further increased.

  Therefore, when notifying the probability of occurrence of a special game in each gaming machine to the player, it is preferable to notify the player as being somewhat ambiguous rather than notifying the probability of occurrence of a special game in detail. .

  In addition, in other gaming machines such as pachinko machines and pachislot machines, there are those in which the probability of occurrence of a special game is set in advance and a special game is performed based on the set probability of occurrence, as in the slot machine described above. Yes, these gaming machines have similar problems.

  Therefore, another object of the present invention is to provide a player with an indication of the probability of occurrence of a special game in a gaming machine that allows a player to perform a special game that is advantageous compared to a normal game based on a preset probability of occurrence. It is an object of the present invention to provide a gaming machine that can fully enjoy the fun of the game while balancing the profits of the player and the game store.

  The gaming machine of the present invention has the following features in order to achieve the above-described object.

A gaming machine according to the invention of claim 1
It is advantageous to the player as compared with the normal game when the game is performed by controlling the reel rotation and stop under the condition that the game medium is inserted and when a predetermined condition is achieved based on a preset probability of occurrence. In a gaming machine that performs special games,
Setting means for setting a set value of the occurrence probability of the special game in a plurality of stages;
Random number generating means for generating a random number within a predetermined numerical range;
A light emitting means capable of emitting light in a plurality of light emission patterns;
A control device for controlling a series of gaming operations,
The control device determines whether the setting value set by the setting means is an odd number or an even number, and selects a light emission pattern by the light emitting means based on the determination and the random value generated by the random number generating means. The player is notified of the standard of the set value.

A gaming machine according to the invention of claim 2 is:
It is advantageous to the player as compared with the normal game when the game is performed by controlling the reel rotation and stop under the condition that the game medium is inserted and when a predetermined condition is achieved based on a preset probability of occurrence. In a gaming machine that performs special games,
Setting means for setting a set value of the occurrence probability of the special game in a plurality of stages;
Random number generating means for generating a random number within a predetermined numerical range;
A light emitting means capable of emitting light in a plurality of light emission patterns;
A control device for controlling a series of gaming operations,
The control device selects a light emission pattern by the light emitting means by calculating a set value set by the setting means and a random value generated by the random number generating means, and provides a guideline for the set value to the player. It is characterized by notifying.

A gaming machine according to the invention of claim 3 is:
It is advantageous to the player as compared with the normal game when the game is performed by controlling the reel rotation and stop under the condition that the game medium is inserted and when a predetermined condition is achieved based on a preset probability of occurrence. In a gaming machine that performs special games,
Setting means for setting a set value of the occurrence probability of the special game in a plurality of stages;
Random number generating means for generating a random number within a predetermined numerical range;
Sound effect generating means capable of generating a plurality of sound effect patterns;
A control device for controlling a series of gaming operations,
The control device determines whether the setting value set by the setting unit is odd or even, and based on the determination and the random value generated by the random number generation unit, the sound effect pattern by the sound effect generation unit And the player is notified of the standard of the set value.

The gaming machine according to the invention of claim 4 is:
It is advantageous to the player as compared with the normal game when the game is performed by controlling the reel rotation and stop under the condition that the game medium is inserted and when a predetermined condition is achieved based on a preset probability of occurrence. In a gaming machine that performs special games,
Setting means for setting a set value of the occurrence probability of the special game in a plurality of stages;
Random number generating means for generating a random number within a predetermined numerical range;
Sound effect generating means capable of generating a plurality of sound effect patterns;
A control device for controlling a series of gaming operations,
The control device selects a sound effect pattern by the sound effect generating means by calculating a set value set by the setting means and a random value generated by the random number generating means, and provides a guideline for the set value. It is characterized by notifying the player.

A gaming machine according to the invention of claim 5 is:
It is advantageous to the player as compared with the normal game when the game is performed by controlling the reel rotation and stop under the condition that the game medium is inserted and when a predetermined condition is achieved based on a preset probability of occurrence. In a gaming machine that performs special games,
Setting means for setting a set value of the occurrence probability of the special game in a plurality of stages;
Random number generating means for generating a random number within a predetermined numerical range;
A light emitting means capable of emitting light in a plurality of light emission patterns;
Sound effect generating means capable of generating a plurality of sound effect patterns;
A control device for controlling a series of gaming operations,
The control device determines whether the setting value set by the setting means is odd or even, and selects a light emission pattern by the light emission means based on the determination and the random value generated by the random number generation means. In addition, a sound effect pattern by the sound effect generating means is selected, and a guide for the set value is notified to the player.

A gaming machine according to the invention of claim 6 is:
It is advantageous to the player as compared with the normal game when the game is performed by controlling the reel rotation and stop under the condition that the game medium is inserted and when a predetermined condition is achieved based on a preset probability of occurrence. In a gaming machine that performs special games,
Setting means for setting a set value of the occurrence probability of the special game in a plurality of stages;
Random number generating means for generating a random number within a predetermined numerical range;
A light emitting means capable of emitting light in a plurality of light emission patterns;
Sound effect generating means capable of generating a plurality of sound effect patterns;
A control device for controlling a series of gaming operations,
The control device selects a light emission pattern by the light emitting means and calculates a sound effect pattern by the sound effect generating means by calculating a set value set by the setting means and a random value generated by the random number generating means. And the player is notified of the standard of the set value.

  Since the gaming machine of the present invention has the above-described configuration, the following effects can be obtained.

According to the gaming machine according to the first to sixth aspects of the present invention, a guideline of the setting value set by the setting means by the calculation of the setting value set by the setting means and the random value generated by the random number generating means. To the player.
Therefore, since the player can know the guideline of the probability of occurrence of the special game, although it is vague, it can be used as a selection criterion for the gaming machine, and the expectation for the special game is increased, and the enjoyment of the game is enhanced. You can enjoy the fullness. Further, since the occurrence probability of the special game is not reported in detail, the player's profit and the game shop's profit can be made fair, and a healthy game can be performed.

In addition, according to the gaming machine according to the first and second aspects of the present invention, the guide of the set value set by the setting means is notified to the player by changing the light emission pattern in the light emission means.
Therefore, the player can visually know the standard of the occurrence probability of the special game by the light emission pattern of the light emitting means.

In addition, according to the gaming machine according to the third and fourth aspects of the invention, by changing the sound effect pattern generated from the sound effect generating means, the player is notified of the set value set by the setting means. ing.
Therefore, the player can audibly know the guideline of the probability of occurrence of the special game from the sound effect pattern generated from the sound effect generating means.

According to the gaming machine according to the fifth and sixth aspects of the present invention, the setting set by the setting means by changing the light emission pattern in the light emitting means and changing the sound effect pattern generated from the sound effect generating means. A guide to the value is given to the player.
Therefore, the player can visually and audibly know the standard of the probability of occurrence of the special game from the light emission pattern of the light emitting means and the sound effect pattern from the sound effect generating means.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be specifically described with reference to the drawings.

  In the embodiment described below, a slot machine is taken as an example of a typical gaming machine. In this slot machine, game medals are used as game media.

<Slot machine>
1 and 2 show an example of an embodiment of a slot machine according to the present invention, FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the slot machine, and FIG. 2 shows a schematic configuration of a control device and peripheral devices connected thereto. FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 1, a slot machine 1 according to the present invention includes a housing 3 having a front door 2 that can be opened and closed on the front surface. The front door 2 is provided with three display windows 4a to 4c arranged side by side on the upper side from the center of the front surface, and each of the display windows 4a to 4c has three display windows arranged inside the housing 3. The outer peripheral surfaces of the reels 5a to 5c face each other. Also, around the display windows 4a to 4c, winning line displays 6a to 6e for displaying effective winning lines across the display windows 4a to 4c are provided. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, a total of five payline displays 6 a to 6 e are provided including three horizontal lines and two diagonal lines intersecting the horizontal lines. Furthermore, on the left end side of each winning line display 6a to 6e, effective line display lamps 7a to 7e for displaying an effective winning line are provided.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the front door 2 below the display windows 4a to 4c includes a display unit such as a credit number display unit 8 including a 7-segment LED for displaying the number of credited game medals. Is provided. In addition, a payout display section 9 for displaying the number of game medals to be paid for winning is provided on the front upper portion of the housing 3.

  On the front surface of the front door 2 below the credit amount display section 8 described above, a shelf section 10 that is inclined downward toward the front of the front door 2 is provided. The shelf 10 is credited with a medal slot 11 for inserting game medals to be used for gaming, a bet switch 12 for inserting game medals for gaming one by one within the credited range, and credits. A maximum bet switch 13 is provided to insert game medals to be used for games within the range up to the maximum allowable bet number. In addition, a medal sensor 14 (shown in FIG. 2) for detecting a game medal is arranged in a medal passage (not shown) communicating with the medal slot 11 described above.

  On the front surface of the front door 2 below the shelf 10, there is a C / P switch 15 for switching whether to credit or pay out the game medal acquired by the player, and each reel on condition that the game medal is inserted. A start switch 16 for starting the rotation of the reels 5a to 5c and three stop switches 17a to 17c for stopping the rotation of the reels 5a to 5c are provided corresponding to the reels 5a to 5c individually. Yes.

  Further, at the lower part of the front door 2, a medal tray 18 for receiving a game medal paid out as a prize is provided, and a medal payout opening 19 is provided so as to face the medal tray 18. A sound transmission hole 20 is provided on the right side of the medal payout opening 19, and a speaker 21 is provided inside the housing 3 so as to face the sound transmission hole 20.

  Inside the casing 3, the reels 5a to 5c are rotatably arranged at positions where the outer peripheral surfaces face the display windows 4a to 4c, respectively. A hopper 22 (shown in FIG. 2) for paying out game medals is arranged. In addition, a control device 23 (shown in FIG. 2) for electrically controlling the slot machine 1 is provided inside the housing 3.

  On the outer peripheral surface of each of the reels 5a to 5c, a light-transmitting reel tape on which a plurality of types of symbols are displayed at predetermined intervals is attached. The types of symbols are, for example, “7”, “BAR”, “Watermelon”, “Bell”, “Plum”, “Cherry”, etc., and 21 symbols are displayed for each reel 5a-c. Yes. Note that the types of symbols and the number of symbols displayed on the reels 5a to 5c can be changed as appropriate.

  Reel lamps 44 (shown in FIG. 2) for transmitting and illuminating the symbols visually recognized through the display windows 4a to 4c from the inner surface side of the reels 5a to 5c are arranged in the respective reels 5a to 5c. Three are provided. By turning on the reel lamp 44, the reels 5a to 5c can be illuminated from the inner surface, and the symbols to be stopped and displayed on the effective winning line can be highlighted.

  In addition, a setting switch 46 (shown in FIG. 2) for setting the occurrence probability of a so-called big bonus game is provided inside the housing 3.

  Although not shown in detail, the setting switch 46 includes, for example, a setting key type switch interlocked with a power switch and a reset switch.

  In order to set the occurrence probability of the big bonus game with the setting switch 46, the power switch is first turned off, and then the power switch is turned on with the setting key switch turned on.

  Of the values stored in the RAM area by the operation, the setting value of the probability of occurrence of the big bonus game, the state of the changeover switch whether to perform the stop processing, the state of the changeover switch whether to perform the automatic settlement All values except for are cleared. In addition, a set value of the probability of occurrence of a big bonus game at the present time is displayed on a display unit provided on the front surface of the slot machine 1. The display of the set value at the present time is made up of, for example, a 7-segment LED and is performed by a game medal payout number display section for displaying the number of game medals to be paid out as a prize.

  In this state, every time the reset switch is operated, the set value of the occurrence probability of the big bonus game is sequentially increased from “1” to “6” and displayed in a circulating manner.

  Thus, after the set value of the probability of occurrence of the big bonus game is selected, the set value is determined when the reel rotation starting device is operated upward or downward.

  Next, when the setting key type switch is turned off, the setting value of the probability of occurrence of the big bonus game, the state of the changeover switch whether or not to perform the stop processing, and the state of the changeover switch whether or not to perform the automatic settlement are displayed. After temporarily holding and clearing the RAM area, the temporarily held setting values and the like are re-stored in the RAM area.

  During the setting of the probability of occurrence of the big bonus game, the C / P switch 15 is switched to a state in which the game medal is returned, and after the set value is confirmed, the display of the game medal payout number display portion is turned off. When the game medal insertion lamp blinks and “0” is displayed on the credit amount display section 8, the game in the slot machine 1 can be started.

  The set value of the probability of occurrence of the big bonus game at the present time can be confirmed by turning on the setting key type switch. Also in this case, the current set value is displayed on the game medal payout number display section. However, the set value cannot be confirmed during the game of the big bonus game or the regular bonus game, during replaying, in a stopped state, during an error occurrence, during game medal payout, and during game medal collection.

  As described above, the set value of the probability of occurrence of the big bonus game can be set in six stages from “1” to “6”, and each set value ranges from 1/240 to 1/300, respectively. Corresponds to the occurrence probability of 6 stages. Based on this set value, the control device 23 performs rotation and stop control of the reels 5a to 5c, thereby generating a big bonus game.

<Games in slot machines>
In order to play a game in the slot machine 1 described above, first, a game medal is actually inserted into the medal slot 11, or the bet switch 12 or the max bet switch 13 is operated to provide a game within the credit range. Insert game medals. Here, a winning line that is effective according to the number of inserted game medals is determined, and the corresponding effective line display lamps 7a to 7e are turned on. For example, when one game medal is inserted, one horizontal line at the center is valid, and when two game medals are inserted, three upper, middle, and lower horizontal lines are valid, and the maximum allowable When three game medals, the number of bets, are inserted, a total of five lines including three upper and middle horizontal lines and two diagonal lines are valid.

  Next, when the player operates the start switch 16, the reels 5a to 5c start rotating all at once, and a plurality of kinds of symbols displayed on the outer peripheral surfaces of the reels 5a to 5c move up and down in the display windows 4a to 4c. Moved and displayed. When the rotation of the reels 5a to 5c reaches a predetermined speed, the stop switches 17a to 17c are activated, and when the player operates the stop switches 17a to 17c, the rotation of the corresponding reels 5a to 5c is stopped. To do.

  Here, when the combination of symbols stopped and displayed on the activated winning line is in a predetermined winning mode, the number of game medals corresponding to each winning mode is paid out as a prize, or It is added as credit.

  The predetermined winning mode includes a normal game winning mode and a special game winning mode that is advantageous to the player as compared to the normal game. Furthermore, the special game winning mode includes a so-called big bonus game winning mode and a regular bonus game winning mode.

  For example, when the combination of symbols stopped and displayed on the activated winning line is “BELL” “BELL” “BELL”, “Orange” “Orange” “Orange” In such a case, “Cherry” is stopped and displayed on the left display window, and a predetermined number, for example, 2 to 8 game medals are paid out.

  In addition to this, a re-game winning mode may be set so that the re-game can be performed under the same conditions as the previous game.

<Big Bonus Game>
The winning mode of the big bonus game is, for example, a game that is executed on the condition that the combination of symbols stopped and displayed on the activated winning line is “7”, “7”, “7”. Thus, a predetermined number, for example, 15 game medals are paid out, and a big bonus game advantageous to the player as compared with the normal game can be performed.

  In this big bonus game, a so-called regular bonus game can be performed three times, and more game medals can be obtained as compared with a normal game.

<Regular Bonus Game>
The above-mentioned regular bonus game winning mode is, for example, a game that is executed when the combination of symbols stopped and displayed on the activated winning line becomes “BAR”, “BAR”, or “BAR”. A predetermined number, for example, 15 medals are paid out and a regular bonus game can be played.

  In this regular bonus game, a predetermined number of game medals are inserted and a start switch is operated to start rotation of the reels 5a to 5c, and then each stop switch 17a to c is operated to operate each of the reels 5a to 5c. Stop rotation.

  Then, when the combination of symbols stopped and displayed on the activated pay line becomes a predetermined combination, a predetermined number, for example, 15 game medals are paid out.

  In this regular bonus game, the maximum number of games and the maximum number of winnings are limited. For example, the above-mentioned game is played 12 times, which is the maximum number of games, or the above-mentioned winning is the maximum number of winnings 8 When the game reaches the number of times, the regular bonus game ends.

  The series of gaming operations described above are controlled by the control device 23 provided in the housing 3.

<Control device>
The control device 23 will be described with reference to FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the control device 23 includes a CPU 24, a ROM 25, a RAM 26, a clock circuit 27 for generating an operation clock signal for the CPU 24, a probability setting unit 28 for setting a probability of occurrence of a big bonus game, and a setting. A notification random number generation unit 45 is provided for generating a random number used for notification of the guideline of the set value.

  The ROM 25 stores processing procedures in the game of the slot machine 1 as a sequence program, and stores data such as a winning probability table for determining a lottery probability and the like. The CPU 24 is based on the sequence program. Etc. operate to control the game in the slot machine 1. Therefore, a guideline of the set value set by the setting switch 46 based on the set value set by the setting switch 46 and the random number value generated by the notification random number generator 45 by the control device 23 including the CPU 24 and the like. Judgment means for judging is configured.

  The clock circuit 27 includes a clock pulse generator 29 for generating a reference clock having a predetermined frequency, and a frequency divider 30 for generating an operation clock signal for the CPU 24 by dividing the reference clock signal. .

  The probability setting unit 28 extracts a random number from a random number generator 31 for generating a certain range of random numbers according to the control of the CPU 24 and the random number generated by the random number generator 31, and transmits the random number to the CPU 24. A random number sampling circuit 32 is provided. The probability setting unit 28 is connected to a setting switch 46 for setting the probability of occurrence of a big bonus game.

  The notification random number generation unit 45 is composed of, for example, an 8-bit refresh register, and can generate 128 random numbers from “0” to “127” when all bits of the refresh register are used.

  The plurality of I / O ports provided in the CPU 24 include a bet switch 12, a max bet switch 13, a C / P switch 15, a start switch 16, a medal sensor 14, a motor drive circuit 33, a reel position detection circuit 34, a reel A stop signal circuit 35, a hopper drive circuit 36, a payout completion signal circuit 37, a display drive circuit 38, a speaker drive circuit 39, and a lamp drive circuit 40 are connected.

Hereafter, each said circuit is demonstrated in detail.
Stepping motors 41a to 41c for rotating the reels 5a to 5c are connected to the motor driving circuit 33, and driving pulses are supplied to or stopped from the stepping motors 41a to 41c under the control of the CPU 24. As a result, the rotation of the reels 5a to 5c is started or stopped.

  The reel position detection circuit 34 is provided with a position detection sensor such as an optical sensor for detecting the rotational position of the reels 5a to 5c. The position detection of the reels 5a to 5c detected by the position detection sensor is provided. A signal is transmitted to the CPU 24.

Stop switches 17a to 17c are connected to the reel stop signal circuit 35. When the player operates the stop switches 17a to 17c, this is detected and a stop switch detection signal is transmitted to the CPU 24.
The hopper driving circuit 36 is connected to a hopper 22 for storing game medals.

  A medal storage unit 42 and a medal detection unit 43 are connected to the payout completion signal circuit 37. The medal storage unit 42 is a part for storing and storing game medals inserted from the medal insertion slot 11 and game medals to be paid out as a prize, and can store and store game medals until a predetermined maximum allowable storage number is reached. . The maximum allowable storage number is, for example, 50 sheets. Up to 50 game medals are stored and stored, and game medals exceeding the 50 sheets are actually paid out from the hopper 22 to the medal tray 18. The game medals actually paid out are counted when the medals detecting unit 43 pays out the medals from the hopper 22 to the medal tray 18. Then, in the game medal payout operation at the time of winning a prize, when the addition value stored in the medal storage unit 42 or the count value in the medal detection unit 43 reaches a predetermined payout number, the payout completion signal circuit 37 notifies the CPU 24. A payout completion signal is transmitted.

  The display drive circuit 38 is connected to the effective line display lamps 7a to 7e, the credit number display unit 8 and the payout display unit 9, and the effective line display lamps 7a to 7e are turned on based on the control of the CPU 24. Or display on each of the display units 8 and 9. The number of game medals stored in the medal storage unit 42 is displayed on the credit number display unit 8.

  The speaker drive circuit 39 is connected to a speaker 21 for generating sound effects and the like, and the lamp drive circuit 40 transmits a symbol visually recognized through the display windows 4a to 4c from the inner surface side of the reels 5a to 5c. A reel lamp 44 for illumination is connected.

<First Example of Control Processing>
Next, the control process in the slot machine 1 by the control device 23 will be described with an emphasis on the notification process of the occurrence probability of special games.

  First, a description will be given of a first embodiment in which the occurrence probability of a special game is notified by changing the light emission pattern of the reel lamp 44.

  3 is a conceptual diagram of the refresh register, FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing selection of a light emission pattern of the reel lamp 44, and FIGS. 5 and 6 are explanatory diagrams of a light emission pattern of the reel lamp 44. FIG. FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing a schematic procedure of control processing in the slot machine 1, and FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing details of reel lamp demo selection processing at the time of a big bonus game.

  In the description of each figure, the big bonus game is abbreviated as “BB”, and the regular bonus game is abbreviated as “RB” (the same applies to FIGS. 9 to 13).

  As shown in FIG. 3, the broadcast random number generator 45 for generating a random number used in the first embodiment is composed of an 8-bit refresh register of “0” bits to “7” bits, among which “0” 32 random numbers from “0” to “31” are generated by using 5 bits from bit to “4”.

  Note that the number of random numbers generated by the notification random number generation unit 45 is not limited to 32, and can be appropriately changed according to the number of steps of the set value.

  In the slot machine 1, as shown in FIG. 4, the occurrence probability of a big bonus game can be set by a setting switch 46. This set value can be set, for example, in six steps in the range of 1/240 to 1/300 (setting 1 = 1/240, setting 2 = 1/256, setting 3 = 1/264, setting 4 = 1/277, setting 5 = 1/282, setting 6 = 1/287). In the embodiment shown in FIG. 4, the probability of occurrence of a big bonus game is the lowest at setting 1, and the probability of occurrence increases sequentially with setting 2, setting 3, setting 4, and setting 5, and the probability of occurrence at setting 6 Is the highest.

  As shown in the upper part of FIG. 4, each set value is calculated as a six-stage numerical value “0” to “5” inside the control device. Further, as described above, the notification random number generation unit 45 generates 32 random numbers from “0” to “31”.

  For the selection of the flash pattern (light emission pattern of the reel lamp 44), an addition value of the set value set by the setting switch 46 and the random number generated by the notification random number generator 45 is used. That is, when the added value is less than “18”, the flash pattern 1 is used, and when the added value is “18” or more, the flash pattern 2 is used.

  The minimum value and the maximum value of the added value described above are smaller as the reference set value is smaller, and conversely, the minimum value and the maximum value are larger as the reference set value is larger. In other words, the lower the maximum value and the maximum value, the lower the occurrence probability of the big bonus game, and the lower the maximum probability and the maximum value, the higher the occurrence probability of the big bonus game.

  Therefore, the lower the occurrence probability of the big bonus game, the higher the occurrence frequency of the flash pattern 1 and the lower the occurrence frequency of the flash pattern 2, and conversely, the higher the occurrence probability of the big bonus game, the higher the flash pattern 2 The occurrence frequency of the flash pattern 1 becomes low.

  The selection ratio between the flash pattern 1 and the flash pattern 2 is as shown in the lower part of FIG. 4. For example, in the setting 1 where the probability of occurrence of a big bonus game is the lowest, the ratio between the two is 18:14. The selection ratio of the flash pattern 2 is 0.7778, and in the setting 6 where the probability of occurrence of the big bonus game is the highest, the ratio of both is 13:19, and the selection ratio of the flash pattern 2 is 1. 4615.

  In this way, by selecting the flash pattern using the added value of the set value and the random number value, it is possible to unambiguously notify the guideline of the occurrence probability of the big bonus game. That is, when the flash pattern 1 appears more frequently than the flash pattern 2, the player can determine that the probability of occurrence of a big bonus game is low, and conversely, the flash pattern 1 If 2 appears more than flash pattern 1, it can be determined that the probability of occurrence of a big bonus game is set high.

  As shown in FIG. 5, the flash pattern 1 described above blinks the reel lamps 44 in six stages. In the first and second stages, all the reel lamps 44 (z1 to z9) are turned off. In the third and fourth stages, a total of five reel lamps 44 (z1, z4, z7, z8, z9) are turned on, ie, the upper middle and lower stages of the left reel 5a, the lower stage of the central reel 5b, and the lower stage of the right reel 5c. L-shaped is expressed, and in the fifth and sixth stages, all the reel lamps 44 (z1 to z9) are turned off again.

  The L-shape expressed in the third and fourth stages expresses that the occurrence probability of the big bonus game is low (Low). Each stage is 103.40 ms, for example.

  As shown in FIG. 6, the flash pattern 2 described above blinks the reel lamps 44 in six stages. In the first and second stages, all the reel lamps 44 (z1 to z9) are turned off, In the third and fourth stages, a total of seven reel lamps 44 (z1, z3, z4, z5, z6, z7, z9) is turned on to express an H-shape, and all reel lamps 44 (z1 to z9) are turned off again in the fifth and sixth stages.

  The H-shape expressed in the third and fourth stages expresses that the occurrence probability of the big bonus game is high (High). Each stage is 103.40 ms, for example.

  Note that the flash pattern is not limited to the above-described one, and may be another aspect. For example, the position of the reel lamps 44 (z1 to z9) to be lit can be changed to express other characters or the lighting timing can be changed.

Next, control processing in the slot machine 1 will be described with reference to FIGS.
In the slot machine 1, a game can be started when a game medal is inserted into the medal slot 11 or when the bet switch 12 or the maximum bet switch 13 is operated and a game medal is received within the credit range. Here, when the start switch 16 is operated, all the reels 5a to 5c start rotating, and a plurality of symbols are moved and displayed in the display windows 4a to 4c.

  As shown in FIG. 7, when the stop switches 17 a to 17 c are operated after the reels 5 a to 5 c have reached a predetermined rotation speed, the reels 5 a to 5 c corresponding to the stop switches 17 a to 17 c are rotated. A reel stop control process (S1) for stopping the operation is performed.

  Next, a reel lamp demonstration selection process (S2) in the normal game is performed, a light emission pattern of the reel lamp 44 is selected in the normal game, a setting process (S3) after the reel is stopped, and the reel 5a after the reel is stopped. The state of .about.c is set, and a winning search process (S4) is performed to determine whether or not the combination of symbols stopped on the activated winning line is in a winning mode.

  Further, it is determined whether or not the winning mode of the big bonus game is set (S5). If the winning mode of the big bonus game is selected, the reel lamp demo selection at the time of the big bonus game to be described in detail later is selected. After performing the process (S6), a winning check medal payout process (S7) is performed to pay out a predetermined number of game medals corresponding to each winning mode.

  On the other hand, if the big bonus game is not in the winning mode, the reel lamp demo selection process (S6) during the big bonus game is skipped.

  Next, it is determined whether or not a big bonus game or a regular bonus game is being performed (S8). If a big bonus game or a regular bonus game is being performed, a winning check process in each game ( S9) is performed, and at the time of winning a prize, a predetermined number of game medals are paid out.

  Although not shown, after performing the predetermined post-process after the above-described process, the game control in the slot machine 1 is performed by repeating the above-described processes (S1) to (S9) again.

  In the reel bonus demonstration selection process (S6) during the big bonus game described above, as shown in FIG. 8, first, the set value set by the setting switch 46, the random number value generated by the notification random number generator 45, Are added (S61), and a reel lamp demo table storing the light emission pattern of the reel lamp 44 is initialized (S62).

  Here, it is determined whether or not the added value of the set value and the random number value is “18” or more (S63). If the added value is “18” or more, the initial value of the reel lamp demo table is set to “ 1 ”is added and set (S64), and a reel lamp demo corresponding to the value of the reel lamp demo table is performed (S65).

  That is, when the added value is less than “18”, the initial value of the reel lamp demo table is used, the reel lamp 44 blinks in the flash pattern 1, and when the added value is “18” or more, the reel A value obtained by adding “1” to the initial value of the lamp demo table is used, and the reel lamp 44 blinks in the flash pattern 2.

<Second Embodiment of Control Processing>
Next, a description will be given of a second embodiment in which the probability of occurrence of a special game is notified by changing the winning sound of the big bonus game generated from the speaker 21. FIG.

  FIG. 9 is a conceptual diagram of the refresh register, FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing a procedure for selecting a winning sound of a big bonus game, and FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram of a sound output condition for sound effects of the big bonus game. . FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing details of the big bonus game and regular bonus game winning check processing, and FIG. 13 is a timing chart showing timings for generating sound effects of the big bonus game.

  As shown in FIG. 9, the broadcast random number generator 45 for generating random numbers used in the second embodiment is composed of an 8-bit refresh register of “0” bits to “7” bits, of which “0”. 8 random numbers from “0” to “7” are generated by using 3 bits of “2” bits to “2” bits and used as random numbers 1 and “0” using 1 bit of “3” bits Alternatively, “1” is generated and used as the random number 2.

  The random numbers 1 and 2 generated in this way are used for lottery, and each random number is drawn using one of them as a winning value. That is, the probability of winning in random number 1 is 1/8, and the probability of winning in random number 2 is 1/2.

  Note that the random number and winning value generated by the notification random number generating unit 45 are not limited to those described above, and can be appropriately changed according to the number of steps of the set value.

  The selection value set by the setting switch 46 and the random value generated by the notification random number generator 45 are used to select the winning sound of the big bonus game generated from the speaker 21.

  Specifically, as shown in FIG. 10, first, it is determined whether the set value set by the setting switch 46 is an odd number or an even number (S10). Here, if the set value is an odd number, it is determined whether or not the random number 1 is won (S11). If the random number 1 is won, the winning sound 1 is generated from the speaker 21 ( S12).

  On the other hand, if the random number 1 has not been won, it is further determined whether or not the random number 2 has been won (S13). Here, when the random number 2 is won, the winning sound 3 is generated from the speaker 21 (S14). If the random number 2 is not won, the winning sound 2 is generated from the speaker 21 (S15).

  In the setting value determination process (S10) described above, if the setting value is an even number, it is determined whether or not random number 1 has been won (S16). If random number 1 has been won, The winning sound 2 is generated from the speaker 21 (S15). If random number 1 is not won, it is further determined whether random number 2 is won (S17). Here, when the random number 2 is won, the winning sound 3 is generated from the speaker 21 (S14). If the random number 2 is not won, the winning sound 2 is generated from the speaker 21 (S15).

  By performing each determination process described above, the winning sounds 1 to 3 are selected, and three different types of winning sounds are generated from the speaker 21.

The selection of the winning sound described above will be described in more detail with reference to FIG.
As described in the first embodiment, in the slot machine 1, the occurrence probability of the big bonus game can be set to 6 levels within the range of 1/240 to 1/300, for example, by the setting switch 46. it can. In addition, the occurrence probability of the big bonus game is the lowest in setting 1, the occurrence probability is sequentially higher in setting 2, setting 3, setting 4, and setting 5, and the occurrence probability in setting 6 is the highest.

  FIG. 11 shows the relationship between the set value and the winning / non-winning of the random numbers 1 and 2 and the winning sounds 1 to 3. In this case, setting 1, setting 3, and setting 5 are odd setting values, and setting 2, setting 4, and setting 6 are even setting values.

  As shown in FIG. 11, the winning sound 1 is generated only when the set value is an odd number. Therefore, when the winning sound 1 is generated, any one of the setting 1, the setting 3, and the setting 5 is set, and at least, it is not the setting 6 having the highest occurrence probability of the big bonus game. Recognize.

  When winning sound 2 is generated, the possibility that the set value is an odd number is 7/16, and the possibility that the set value is an even number is 2/16 + 7/16 = 9/16. Therefore, the possibility that the setting value 2, the setting value 4, and the setting value 6 are selected is slightly higher than the setting value 1, the setting value 3, and the setting value 5, in other words, the occurrence probability of the big bonus game is It can be seen that it may be slightly higher than the average value.

  When the winning sound 3 is generated, the possibility that the set value is an odd number is 7/16, and the possibility that the set value is an even number is 7/16. Therefore, it is not known which of the setting value 1, the setting value 3, the setting value 5, and the setting value 2, the setting value 4, and the setting value 6 is selected.

  In this way, by selecting the big bonus game winning sound using the set value and the random number value, it is possible to unambiguously notify the approximate probability of occurrence of the big bonus game.

  Next, a winning check process (S9) of the big bonus game and the regular bonus game in the control process in the slot machine 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

  The outline of the main routine of the control process in the slot machine 1 is the same as the control process in the first embodiment shown in FIG.

  That is, in the control process according to the second embodiment, similarly to the control process shown in FIG. 7, the reel stop control process (S1) to the big bonus game and regular bonus game winning check process (S9) are performed. After performing the predetermined post-process after the above process, the process in the slot machine 1 is controlled by repeating the above-described processes (S1) to (S9) again.

  In the big bonus game and regular bonus game winning check processing (S9), as shown in FIG. 12, it is first determined whether or not the big bonus game winning mode is set (S91), and the big bonus game is determined. Is set to the winning sound 1 for the big bonus game (S92).

Next, a winning sound is selected by judging whether the set value set by the setting switch 46 and the random numbers 1 and 2 generated by the notification random number generator 45 are won (S93) to (S98).
That is, the winning judgment process (S93) of the set value (odd number) and the random number 1 is performed, the set value set by the setting switch 46 is an odd number, and the random number 1 generated by the notification random number generator 45 is won. In this case, the winning sound 1 set in the winning sound 1 set process (S92) is generated from the speaker 21 (S98), and the process returns.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in the winning determination process (S93) of the set value (odd number) and the random number 1 that the mode is other than the above, the winning sound 2 is set (S94).

Next, a winning determination process (S95) for the set value (even number) and the random number 1 and a winning determination process (S96) for the random number 2 are continuously performed, and the setting value set by the setting switch 46 is an even number and is notified. When the random number 1 generated by the random number generator 45 is won,
Alternatively, if the random number 2 generated by the notification random number generation unit 45 is not selected, the winning sound 2 set in the winning sound 2 set process (S94) is transmitted from the speaker 21. Generated (S98), and the process returns.

  On the other hand, if it is determined that the setting value (even number) and the random number 1 winning determination process (S95) and the random number 2 winning determination process (S96) are other than the above, the winning sound 3 is set ( In step S97, the winning sound 3 is generated from the speaker 21 (S98), and the process returns.

  On the other hand, if the winning mode of the big bonus game is not set, the processing is returned without performing the above-described processing (S91) to (S98).

  Next, the timing for generating the sound effect of the big bonus game will be described with reference to FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 13, among the three reels 5a to 5c, the big bonus game winning is determined at the timing when the rotation of the reel that stops last (usually the right reel 5c) stops, In the case of a game winning mode, a random number is extracted by a refresh register and a flash pattern of the reel lamp 44 is selected. Then, based on the selected flash pattern 1 or flash pattern 2, the reel lamp 44 is blinked. When the blinking of the reel lamp 44 is finished, a game medal is paid out.

  The winning sound is selected at the timing when the game medals have been paid out, the selected winning sounds 1 to 3 are generated from the speaker 21, and the big bonus game is output from the speaker 21 at the timing when the generation of the winning sound is completed. The operation sound is generated.

  In the second embodiment described above, three types of winning sounds are generated. However, two or more types of winning sounds may be generated. The multiple types of winning sounds may be of any type as long as they can be distinguished from other winning sounds. For example, they may be composed of a plurality of songs with different melody, The pitch may be changed, or an indication of the set value may be expressed in words.

  In addition, the winning sound is generated from the speaker 21 to notify the guideline of the probability of occurrence of the big bonus game, and the guideline of the probability of occurrence of the big bonus game is also notified by the light emission pattern of the reel lamp 44. The notification of the occurrence probability of the big bonus game by the light emission pattern of the reel lamp 44 may not be performed.

<Other embodiments>
Further, in each of the above-described embodiments, the slot machine 1 is described as an example of a representative gaming machine. However, the present invention may be applied to other gaming machines such as a pachinko machine and a pachislot gaming machine. Can do.

  In addition, the notification unit is configured to notify the guideline of the set value, but may be configured to notify the details of the occurrence probability of the set special game. In other words, depending on the sales strategy at the game store, even if it is configured to notify the details of the occurrence probability of the special game that has been set, it may be possible to achieve fairness between the player's profit and the game shop's profit. Yes, in such a case, the details of the set probability of occurrence of the special game are changed in the light emission pattern of the reel lamp 44, which is an embodiment of the above-described notification means, or the sound effect pattern generated from the speaker 21. Can also be notified.

  Further, although the reel lamp 44 is used as the light emitting means, the light emitting means may be constituted by another device. For example, the light emitting means is configured by a decorative lamp provided on the front surface of the gaming machine, or the light emitting means is provided by a lamp, an LED, a 7-segment LED, a dot matrix display or the like separately provided to notify the occurrence probability of a special game. Can also be configured.

  In addition, if the slot machine is of a type provided with a display device such as a liquid crystal display for displaying a pseudo reel, an effect during a bonus game, a game history, etc., notification is made using a character image corresponding to each occurrence probability notification. Is also possible.

  If attention is paid to the reel portion, it is also possible to make a notification by using a rotation function different from the normal rotation, such as the rotation speed of the reel and the reverse rotation of the shake.

  Further, although the speaker 21 is used as the sound effect generating means, the sound effect generating means may be constituted by other devices. For example, the sound effect generating means can be constituted by a hammer or the like that generates a hitting sound. In this case, the details or guideline of the occurrence probability of the special game may be notified based on the number of occurrences of the hitting sound.

  In addition, the timing for notifying the occurrence probability of a special game by the notification means is set at the time of winning a special game, but the notification timing is not limited to this, for example, at the end of the special game, every predetermined time, or at the end of the predetermined number of games It may be time.

The perspective view of the slot machine which is a typical example of the gaming machine which concerns on this invention A block diagram showing a schematic configuration of a control device of a slot machine and peripheral devices connected thereto. Conceptual diagram of the refresh register according to the first embodiment Explanatory drawing which shows selection of the light emission pattern of a reel lamp Illustration of light emission pattern of reel lamp Illustration of light emission pattern of reel lamp The flowchart which shows the schematic procedure of the control processing in the slot machine which concerns on 1st Embodiment. Flow chart showing details of reel lamp demo selection process during big bonus game Conceptual diagram of the refresh register according to the second embodiment Flow chart showing the procedure for selecting the winning sound of the big bonus game Illustration of sound output conditions for sound effects of big bonus game Flow chart showing the details of the Big Bonus Game and Regular Bonus Game winning check process Timing chart showing the timing to generate sound effects for the big bonus game

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Slot machine 2 Front door 3 Housing | casing 4a-c Display window 5a-c Reel 6a-e Winning line display 7a-e Effective line display lamp 8 Credit number display part 9 Dividend display part 10 Shelf part 11 Medal insertion slot 12 Bet switch 13 Max bet switch 14 Medal sensor 15 C / P switch 16 Start switch 17a-c Stop switch 18 Medal tray 19 Medal payout port 20 Sound transmission hole 21 Speaker 22 Hopper 23 Controller 24 CPU
25 ROM
26 RAM
27 Clock circuit 28 Probability setting unit 29 Clock pulse generator 30 Frequency divider 31 Random number generator 32 Random number sampling circuit 33 Motor drive circuit 34 Reel position detection circuit 35 Reel stop signal circuit 36 Hopper drive circuit 37 Dispensing completion signal circuit 38 Display drive Circuit 39 Speaker drive circuit 40 Lamp drive circuits 41a-c Stepping motor 42 Medal storage unit 43 Medal detection unit 44 Reel lamp 45 Notification random number generation unit 46 Setting switch

Claims (6)

It is advantageous to the player as compared with the normal game when the game is performed by controlling the reel rotation and stop under the condition that the game medium is inserted and when a predetermined condition is achieved based on a preset probability of occurrence. In a gaming machine that performs special games,
Setting means for setting a set value of the occurrence probability of the special game in a plurality of stages;
Random number generating means for generating a random number within a predetermined numerical range;
A light emitting means capable of emitting light in a plurality of light emission patterns;
A control device for controlling a series of gaming operations,
The control device determines whether the setting value set by the setting means is an odd number or an even number, and selects a light emission pattern by the light emitting means based on the determination and the random value generated by the random number generating means. A game machine characterized by notifying a player of the set value. It is advantageous to the player as compared with the normal game when the game is performed by controlling the reel rotation and stop under the condition that the game medium is inserted and when a predetermined condition is achieved based on a preset probability of occurrence. In a gaming machine that performs special games,
Setting means for setting a set value of the occurrence probability of the special game in a plurality of stages;
Random number generating means for generating a random number within a predetermined numerical range;
A light emitting means capable of emitting light in a plurality of light emission patterns;
A control device for controlling a series of gaming operations,
The control device selects a light emission pattern by the light emitting means by calculating a set value set by the setting means and a random value generated by the random number generating means, and provides a guideline for the set value to the player. A gaming machine characterized by notification. It is advantageous to the player as compared with the normal game when the game is performed by controlling the reel rotation and stop under the condition that the game medium is inserted and when a predetermined condition is achieved based on a preset probability of occurrence. In a gaming machine that performs special games,
Setting means for setting a set value of the occurrence probability of the special game in a plurality of stages;
Random number generating means for generating a random number within a predetermined numerical range;
Sound effect generating means capable of generating a plurality of sound effect patterns;
A control device for controlling a series of gaming operations,
The control device determines whether the setting value set by the setting unit is odd or even, and based on the determination and the random value generated by the random number generation unit, the sound effect pattern by the sound effect generation unit A game machine characterized by selecting and informing the player of the standard of the set value. It is advantageous to the player as compared with the normal game when the game is performed by controlling the reel rotation and stop under the condition that the game medium is inserted and when a predetermined condition is achieved based on a preset probability of occurrence. In a gaming machine that performs special games,
Setting means for setting a set value of the occurrence probability of the special game in a plurality of stages;
Random number generating means for generating a random number within a predetermined numerical range;
Sound effect generating means capable of generating a plurality of sound effect patterns;
A control device for controlling a series of gaming operations,
The control device selects a sound effect pattern by the sound effect generating means by calculating a set value set by the setting means and a random value generated by the random number generating means, and provides a guideline for the set value. A gaming machine characterized by notifying a player. It is advantageous to the player as compared with the normal game when the game is performed by controlling the reel rotation and stop under the condition that the game medium is inserted and when a predetermined condition is achieved based on a preset probability of occurrence. In a gaming machine that performs special games,
Setting means for setting a set value of the occurrence probability of the special game in a plurality of stages;
Random number generating means for generating a random number within a predetermined numerical range;
A light emitting means capable of emitting light in a plurality of light emission patterns;
Sound effect generating means capable of generating a plurality of sound effect patterns;
A control device for controlling a series of gaming operations,
The control device determines whether the setting value set by the setting means is odd or even, and selects a light emission pattern by the light emission means based on the determination and the random value generated by the random number generation means. In addition, the game machine is characterized in that a sound effect pattern by the sound effect generating means is selected and a guide of the set value is notified to the player. It is advantageous to the player as compared with the normal game when the game is performed by controlling the reel rotation and stop under the condition that the game medium is inserted and when a predetermined condition is achieved based on a preset probability of occurrence. In a gaming machine that performs special games,
Setting means for setting a set value of the occurrence probability of the special game in a plurality of stages;
Random number generating means for generating a random number within a predetermined numerical range;
A light emitting means capable of emitting light in a plurality of light emission patterns;
Sound effect generating means capable of generating a plurality of sound effect patterns;
A control device for controlling a series of gaming operations,
The control device selects a light emission pattern by the light emitting means and calculates a sound effect pattern by the sound effect generating means by calculating a set value set by the setting means and a random value generated by the random number generating means. A game machine characterized by selecting and informing the player of the standard of the set value.

Images