JP2006263284A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine where a position for rotations of a reel which is controlled by a main control circuit is recognized even by a sub control circuit. <P>SOLUTION: The game machine comprises: a first control means (e.g. the main control circuit 71) for rotating the reel when a start operation is detected and controlling the stop of the rotations of the reel when a stop operation is detected; a second control means (e.g. the sub control circuit 72) for controlling a rendition concerning a game to be performed by a rendition means; and a means for detecting a reference position for the rotations ( e.g. a reel position detection circuit 50) which detects the reference position for the rotations (e.g. a reel index) whenever the reel is rotated once. The first control means transmits a signal which indicates the detection of the position when the reference position for the rotations is detected (e.g. a reel index detection command) to the second control means. The second control means receives the transmitted signal. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2007,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine.

  Conventionally, a plurality of reels in which a plurality of symbols are arranged on the respective circumferential surfaces, and a plurality of reels corresponding to each of the reels, a part of the plurality of symbols arranged on the circumferential surface of each reel. Start of rotation of each reel based on a player's operation (hereinafter referred to as “start operation”) on the condition that a display is displayed so that the player can visually recognize the symbol and a medal is inserted A start switch that outputs a signal for requesting a stop, a stop switch that outputs a signal for requesting stop of rotation of the reel according to the type of the reel, based on an operation by the player (hereinafter referred to as “stop operation”), Based on the signals output from the start switch and stop switch, a game machine including a control unit that controls the operation of the stepping motor and rotates and stops each reel. Chisuro is known. Normally, in such a pachi-slot, it is determined whether or not a winning is made based on a combination of symbols displayed by a plurality of display windows.

  Currently, in a mainstream pachislot machine, when a player performs a start operation, an internal lottery is performed, and the reel rotation is stopped based on the result of the lottery and the timing of the stop operation by the player. . For this reason, even if the game has a winning result (hereinafter referred to as “internal winning combination”) as a result of winning through an internal lottery, the stop operation is performed at an appropriate timing. If it is not done, no winning will occur. Therefore, the player is required to have a predetermined technique called “promotion”.

  In addition, the above gaming machine has a configuration for detecting a reel index serving as a rotation reference position of the reel, and the number of drive pulses supplied to the stepping motor (that is, the stepping motor when triggered by detecting the reel index). Has been proposed (for example, see Patent Document 1). With such a configuration, it is possible to specify the rotational position of the reel within the range of one rotation.

Recently, in the above-mentioned gaming machines, those having a configuration in which effects are produced by various display devices such as image display devices and speakers and lamps have become the mainstream, and predetermined images are accompanied with the rotation and stop of the reels described above. Have been proposed to produce sound effects and sound effects. For example, in addition to the above-mentioned reels (hereinafter referred to as main reels) on which game results are displayed, those having a production reel (hereinafter referred to as sub-reel) for assisting display of game results performed on the main reels are proposed. (For example, refer to Patent Document 2). In such a gaming machine, a circuit board for controlling the main reel (so-called main control circuit) and a circuit board for controlling the sub-reel (so-called sub control circuit) are constituted by separate circuit boards. Such a configuration is intended to improve the production effect by realizing the operation that restricts the main reel with the sub reel.
JP 2005-006838 A JP 2003-339945 A

  However, in the conventional gaming machine described above, since the reel index described above is configured to be detected by the main control circuit, it is difficult for the sub control circuit to accurately recognize the rotation position of the main reel. there were. For this reason, there is a possibility that a deviation occurs between the display of the main reel controlled by the main control circuit and the effect controlled by the sub-control circuit, and the interest in the player's effect may be reduced. It was.

  Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine that can recognize the rotational position of the reel controlled by the main control circuit even in the sub control circuit.

  In order to achieve the above object, the present invention provides the following.

  The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the symbol display means includes a plurality of symbols on which a plurality of symbols are arranged and a display window for displaying a part of the plurality of symbols arranged on the reels. There are separately provided effecting means for effecting the game, start operation detecting means for detecting that the start operation for starting the unit game is performed, and stop operation for stopping the rotation of the reel. When the start operation is detected by the stop operation detecting means and the start operation detecting means, the reel is rotated. When the stop operation is detected by the stop operation detecting means, the reel is stopped. A first control means for controlling, a second control means for controlling an effect relating to the game performed by the effect means, and a rotation each time the reel is rotated by the first control means. A rotation reference position detection means for detecting a quasi-position, and the first control means sends a signal indicating that to the second control means when the rotation reference position is detected by the rotation reference position detection means. The second control means has a receiving means for receiving the signal transmitted by the transmitting means.

  According to this gaming machine, when the rotation reference position is detected every time the rotation reference position detection means performs one rotation of the reel, a signal indicating that is sent to the second control means by the first control means. The second control means receives the signal by the receiving means. That is, the second control means can recognize that the rotation reference position of the reel has been detected. As a result, the second control means can also recognize the reel rotation position based on the rotation reference position, and the reel rotation and stop performed by the first control means and the effects performed by the second control means. Since synchronization can be achieved, it is possible to prevent the interest in the player's performance from deteriorating. In addition, since the second control means can recognize the rotation position of the reel based on the rotation reference position, it is possible to perform effects (such as assisting pressing) according to the symbol position of the reel.

  The gaming machine according to claim 2, wherein the symbol display means includes a plurality of symbols on which a plurality of symbols are arranged and a display window for displaying a part of the plurality of symbols arranged on the reels, and the symbol display means. Provided separately and having a display row for displaying a plurality of symbols corresponding to the reels, an effect means for effecting a game and a start of detecting that a start operation for starting a unit game has been performed An operation detection means, a stop operation detection means for detecting that a stop operation for stopping the rotation of the reel has been performed, and a rotation of the reel when a start operation is detected by the start operation detection means, When the stop operation is detected by the stop operation detecting means, first control means for controlling the rotation of the reel to stop, and in conjunction with the reel rotation and stop performed by the first control means, the table Second control means for controlling display of a plurality of symbols in a row, and rotation reference position detection means for detecting a rotation reference position every time the reel is rotated once by the first control means, When the rotation reference position is detected by the rotation reference position detection means, the first control means has a transmission means for transmitting a signal indicating the fact to the second control means. The second control means And receiving means for receiving the signal transmitted by the transmitting means.

  According to this gaming machine, when the rotation reference position is detected every time the rotation reference position detection means performs one rotation of the reel, a signal indicating that is sent to the second control means by the first control means. The second control means receives the signal by the receiving means. That is, the second control means can recognize that the rotation reference position of the reel has been detected. As a result, the second control means can recognize the rotation position of the reel based on the rotation reference position, and the rotation and stop of the reel performed by the first control means and the display row performed by the second control means. Since it becomes possible to synchronize with the display of a plurality of symbols, it is possible to prevent the interest in the player's performance from deteriorating. In addition, since the second control means can recognize the rotation position of the reel based on the rotation reference position, it is possible to perform effects (such as assisting pressing) according to the symbol position of the reel.

  According to the gaming machine of the present invention, when the rotation reference position is detected, a signal indicating that is transmitted to the second control means so that the second control means can recognize the rotation position of the reel. become.

  The configuration of the gaming machine 1 according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. First, an overview of the gaming machine 1 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

  The gaming machine 1 is provided with a cabinet 1a that houses a main control circuit 71 (see FIG. 4), which will be described later, a hopper 40, and the like, and a front door 1b that is attached to the cabinet 1a so as to be openable and closable.

  A panel display 2 as a substantially vertical surface is formed at the upper part of the front door 1b, and vertically long rectangular display windows 4L, 4C, 4R are provided at the center of the panel display 2. Further, behind the display windows 4L, 4C, 4R, inside the cabinet 1a, three reels 3L, 3C, 3R (hereinafter, referred to as “main reels 3L, 3C, 3R”) are horizontally rotatable. It is provided in a row.

  On the main reels 3L, 3C, 3R, a symbol row composed of a plurality of types of symbols is drawn on each outer peripheral surface. Each main reel 3L, 3C, 3R is controlled by a main control circuit 71 (see FIG. 4) described later so as to rotate at a constant speed (for example, 80 revolutions / minute), and is drawn on the main reels 3L, 3C, 3R. The symbols change as the main reels 3L, 3C, 3R rotate. In each display window 4L, 4C, 4R, symbols can be displayed at three positions in the vertical direction (upper, middle, lower), and the symbols on the main reels 3L, 3C, 3R are displayed on the display window. It can be observed through 4L, 4C, 4R.

  In addition, when the main reels 3L, 3C, and 3R stop rotating, the gaming machine 1 determines the success or failure of winning based on the symbols displayed at the three positions in the display windows 4L, 4C, and 4R. A display line serving as a reference for determination is provided. As the display lines, a top line 8b, a center line 8c and a bottom line 8d are provided in the horizontal direction, and a cross-up line 8a and a cross-down line 8e are provided in the oblique direction.

  The five display lines 8 a to 8 e are basically operated by operating a 1-BET button 11, a 2-BET button 12, a maximum BET button 13, which will be described later, or inserting medals into the medal insertion slot 22. Each one, three, and five are activated (hereinafter, the activated display lines are referred to as effective lines). Which display line is activated is displayed by turning on BET lamps 9a, 9b, and 9c, which will be described later. The determination of the display combination, which will be described later, is performed based on the combination of symbols displayed along this effective line.

  Below the main reels 3L, 3C, 3R and in the center of the front door 1b, a liquid crystal display device 5 for displaying various effects related to games is provided, and a liquid crystal display screen 5a as a substantially vertical surface is provided. Is provided. The liquid crystal display screen 5a of the liquid crystal display device 5 is provided with a symbol display area 55 for displaying images imitating the main reels 3L, 3C, 3R and the display windows 4L, 4C, 4R. In the symbol display area 55, the variation display and stop display of the symbol image imitating the symbols arranged on the main reels 3L, 3C, 3R described above are performed. Thus, various effects are displayed to assist the display of symbols performed by the main reels 3L, 3C, 3R.

  On the left side of the liquid crystal display screen 5a of the liquid crystal display device 5, a 1-BET lamp 9a, a 2-BET lamp 9b, and a maximum BET lamp 9c are provided. The 1-BET lamp 9a, the 2-BET lamp 9b, and the maximum BET lamp 9c are used for a unit game (for example, from the start of the main reel rotation until the main reel rotation stops and a game result is obtained). Lighting is performed according to the number of medals inserted to play a game. The 1-BET lamp 9a is turned on when the number of inserted sheets is one and one display line 8c is activated. The 2-BET lamp 9b is turned on when the number of inserted sheets is two and the three display lines 8b, 8c, 8d are activated. The maximum BET lamp 9c is turned on when the number of inserted sheets is 3 and all the display lines 8a to 8e are activated.

  An information display section 18 is provided below the BET lamps 9a, 9b, 9c. The information display unit 18 is composed of 7 segment LEDs, and the number of medals stored (so-called “credit”) in the gaming machine 1 and the number of medals to be paid out to the player (hereinafter referred to as “paid out number”). Etc. are displayed.

  A horizontal base 10 is formed below the liquid crystal display screen 5 a of the liquid crystal display device 5. A medal slot 22 is provided on the right side of the pedestal 10. The aforementioned display line is validated according to the medal inserted into the medal slot 22. In the gaming machine 1, medals are used as gaming media, but the gaming media used in the gaming machine 1 are not limited to this, and a card storing information such as the number of medals in addition to coins, gaming balls or tokens. Etc. are also applicable.

  On the left side of the pedestal 10, a 1-BET button 11, a 2-BET button 12, and a maximum BET button 13 for inserting medals from credited medals are provided. The 1-BET button 11 is inserted with one of the credited medals by a single pressing operation. The 2-BET button 12 is inserted with two of the credited medals by a single pressing operation. The maximum BET button 13 is inserted with three of the credited medals (that is, the maximum number that can be inserted in a unit game) by one press operation. By operating these BET buttons 11, 12, and 13, the aforementioned display line is validated.

  An operation unit 17 including a cross key, a selection button, and a determination button is provided above the BET buttons 11, 12, and 13. Based on the operation of the operation unit 17 by the player, information related to the game such as a game history is displayed on the liquid crystal display screen 5 a of the liquid crystal display device 5.

  A C / P button 14 is provided on the left side of the front portion of the pedestal 10 to switch between credit (Credit) / payout (Pay) of medals acquired by the player in the game. The payout mode or the credit mode is switched by the player's operation on the C / P button 14. In the credit mode, when a winning is established, medals for the number of payouts corresponding to the winning are credited. In the payout mode, when a winning is established, medals corresponding to the payout are paid out from the medal payout opening 15 at the lower front, and the medals paid out from the medal payout opening 15 are stored in the medal receiving section 16. .

  Speakers 21 </ b> L and 21 </ b> R are provided on the left and right above the medal receiving portion 16. The speakers 21L and 21R output music, sound effects, etc., and perform effects and notifications related to games.

  Moreover, LED101 and the lamp | ramp 102 are provided in the upper part of the front door 1b. The LED 101 and the lamp 102 emit light in a light emission pattern according to the game situation, and perform effects and notifications regarding the game.

  A start lever 6 is provided on the right side of the C / P button 14 to rotate the main reels 3L, 3C, 3R by a start operation and start changing the symbols displayed on the display windows 4L, 4C, 4R. Yes.

  Three stop buttons 7L, 7C, 7R for stopping the rotation of the three main reels 3L, 3C, 3R by a stop operation are located on the right side of the start lever 6 and in the center of the front surface of the pedestal 10. Is provided. In the embodiment, the first stop of the rotation of the main reel that is performed when the three main reels 3L, 3C, and 3R are rotating is referred to as a first stop, and the second stop that is performed after the first stop. The stop of the main reel rotation is called a second stop, and the last stop of the main reel rotation after the second stop is called a third stop.

  Next, the liquid crystal display screen 5a of the liquid crystal display device 5 will be described with reference to FIG. The liquid crystal display screen 5 a includes a symbol display area 55 and an effect display area 56. The symbol display area 55 includes reel display areas 53L, 53C, and 53R and window frame display areas 54L, 54C, and 54R.

  The reel display areas 53L, 53C, 53R (hereinafter referred to as “sub-reels 53L, 53C, 53R”) are provided so as to correspond to the main reels 3L, 3C, 3R on a one-to-one basis. Display imitating the rotation and stop of 3C and 3R is performed. Here, the main reels 3L, 3C, and 3R described above have the same functions as the reels provided in general gaming machines, and the display combination described later is determined by the combination of symbols when stopped. The sub reels 53L, 53C, and 53R have a function of performing effects in a display mode such as a change display or a stop display of a symbol image. The sub reels 53L, 53C, and 53R basically display a variation of the symbol image as the main reels 3L, 3C, and 3R are rotated based on the start operation, and the main reels 3L, 3C, and 3R are based on the stop operation. Along with the stop of the rotation, the sub-control circuit 72 described later controls the symbol image to be stopped and displayed. In the gaming machine 1, by providing the sub reels 53L, 53C, 53R at the center of the front door 1b, it is possible to perform a game that places importance on showing the player various effects by the sub reels 53L, 53C, 53R. become.

  The window frame display areas 54L, 54C, 54R are provided so as to surround the sub reels 53L, 53C, 53R, and are provided on the display windows 4L, 4C, 4R disposed on the front surface of the main reels 3L, 3C, 3R. Corresponding. That is, in each window frame display area 54L, 54C, 54R, symbol images are displayed at three positions (upper, middle, and lower) in the vertical direction.

  The effect display area 56 is a display area other than the symbol display area 55 in the area of the liquid crystal display screen 5a. In the symbol display area 55, an effect relating to the variable display or stop display of the symbol image is performed, whereas in the effect display area 56, an effect such as a character image display is displayed. Note that the effect display may be performed using all or part of the liquid crystal display screen 5 a including the symbol display area 55 and the effect display area 56.

  Next, with reference to FIG. 3, the symbol sequence arranged on the main reels 3L, 3C, 3R and the sub reels 53L, 53C, 53R will be described. A reel sheet is mounted on the outer peripheral surface of each main reel 3L, 3C, 3R, and a symbol row in which 21 types of symbols are arranged on the reel sheet is drawn. Specifically, red 7 (design 61), BAR (design 62), watermelon (design 63), bell (design 64), cherry (design 65), Replay (design 66), and blank (design 67) The symbol sequence which consists of is drawn. A blank (symbol 67) is a symbol represented by a blank. The 21 symbols constituting each symbol row are arranged with a certain interval.

  Each main reel 3L, 3C, 3R is rotationally driven so that the symbol row moves in the direction of the arrow in FIG. In addition, a code number “00 to 20” for specifying the position of each symbol is predetermined for each symbol, and stored as a data table in the ROM 32 of the main control circuit 71 described later with reference to FIG. ing.

  Further, on the sub reels 53L, 53C, 53R, a symbol row similar to the symbol row of the main reels 3L, 3C, 3R is displayed as an image. In other words, red 7 (symbol 61), BAR (symbol 62), watermelon (symbol 63), bell (symbol 64), cherry (symbol 65), Replay (symbol 66), and blank (symbol) constituting the above-described symbol sequence. A symbol image imitating 21 symbols consisting of symbols 67) is displayed. Image data relating to the display of each of these symbol images is stored in an image ROM 88 (see FIG. 5) described later. Based on this image data, the display of rotation and stop of the sub reels 53L, 53C, 53R is controlled by the control of the image control microcomputer 81 described later.

  Next, the circuit configuration of the gaming machine 1 including a peripheral device (actuator) electrically connected to the main control circuit 71, the sub control circuit 72, the main control circuit 71 or the sub control circuit 72 will be described with reference to FIG. To do. The main control circuit 71 includes a microcomputer 30 disposed on a circuit board as a main component, and is added with a circuit for random number sampling. The microcomputer 30 includes a CPU 31 and ROM 32 and RAM 33 which are storage means.

  A clock pulse generation circuit 34, a frequency divider 35, a random number generator 36 and a sampling circuit 37 are connected to the CPU 31.

  The clock pulse generation circuit 34 and the frequency divider 35 generate a reference clock pulse. The random number generator 36 generates random numbers belonging to a certain numerical range. The sampling circuit 37 extracts (samples) an arbitrary random number value from the random number generated by the random number generator 36. By using the extracted random number value, a lottery process is performed, and predetermined information (for example, an internal winning combination described later) is determined. Further, based on the reference clock pulse generated by the clock pulse generation circuit 34, a periodic interrupt process (see FIG. 16) described later is performed.

  As a means for random number sampling, random number sampling may be executed in the microcomputer 30, that is, on the operation program of the CPU 31. In that case, the random number generator 36 and the sampling circuit 37 can be omitted, or can be left as a backup for the random number sampling operation.

  The ROM 32 of the microcomputer 30 transmits a program related to the processing of the CPU 31 (for example, see FIGS. 10 to 23 described later), various tables (for example, see FIGS. 6 to 9 described later), and the sub control circuit 72. Various control commands (commands) are stored.

  Various information obtained by the processing of the CPU 31 is set in the RAM 33. For example, various kinds of information such as identification information for identifying an internal winning combination, a gaming state, and numerical information for specifying a payout number are set. These pieces of information are transmitted to the sub-control circuit 72 by the aforementioned command.

  In the circuit of FIG. 4, BET lamps 9 a, 9 b, 9 c, information display unit 18, hopper 40, stepping motors 49 </ b> L, 49 </ b> C, 49 </ b> R are the main actuators whose operation is controlled by a control signal from the microcomputer 30. is there.

  In addition, each circuit for controlling the operation of each actuator described above is connected to the output unit of the microcomputer 30 in response to a control signal output from the CPU 31. Each circuit includes a motor drive circuit 39, a lamp drive circuit 45, a display unit drive circuit 48, and a hopper drive circuit 41.

  The lamp driving circuit 45 controls driving of the BET lamps 9a, 9b, 9c. Thereby, the BET lamps 9a, 9b, and 9c are turned on and off.

  The display unit driving circuit 48 drives and controls the information display unit 18. As a result, various information (such as the number of credits) is displayed on the information display unit 18.

  The hopper drive circuit 41 drives and controls the hopper 40. Thereby, the medal accommodated in the hopper 40 is paid out.

  The motor drive circuit 39 drives and controls the stepping motors 49L, 49C, 49R. Thereby, the main reels 3L, 3C, 3R are rotated or stopped.

  Also, each switch and each circuit for generating an input signal that triggers outputting a control signal to each circuit and each actuator described above are connected to the input section of the microcomputer 30. Each switch and each circuit includes a start switch 6S, a stop switch 7S, a 1-BET switch 11S, a 2-BET switch 12S, a maximum BET switch 13S, a C / P switch 14S, a medal sensor 22S, a reel position detection circuit 50, a payout There is a completion signal circuit 51.

  The start switch 6S detects a player's start operation on the start lever 6 and outputs a signal instructing the start of the unit game to the microcomputer 30.

  The stop switch 7S detects a player's stop operation on each of the stop buttons 7L, 7C, and 7R, and a signal that instructs to stop the rotation of the main reels 3L, 3C, and 3R corresponding to the detected stop buttons 7L, 7C, and 7R. Is output to the microcomputer 30.

  The 1-BET switch 11S, the 2-BET switch 12S and the maximum BET switch 13S detect the player's input operation on the 1-BET button 11, the 2-BET button 12 and the maximum BET button 13, respectively, and from the credited medal A signal that instructs insertion of one, two, or three medals is output to the microcomputer 30.

  The C / P switch 14 </ b> S detects a player switching operation on the C / P button 14 and outputs a signal for switching the credit mode or the payout mode to the microcomputer 30. When the credit mode is switched to the payout mode, a signal for instructing the payout of medals credited to the gaming machine 1 is output to the microcomputer 30.

  The medal sensor 22S detects medals inserted into the medal insertion slot 22 by the player's insertion operation, and outputs a signal indicating that a medal has been inserted to the microcomputer 30.

  The payout completion signal circuit 51 indicates that the payout of medals is completed when the number of medals detected by the medal detection unit 40S (that is, the number of medals paid out from the hopper 40) reaches the designated number. Generate a signal.

  The reel position detection circuit 50 detects a reel index as a rotation reference position each time the main reels 3L, 3C, 3R are rotated, and outputs a signal indicating that the reel index is detected to the microcomputer 30. To do.

  The configuration for detecting the reel index can be the same as the conventional configuration. For example, a detection piece is attached to a part of the structure of the main reels 3L, 3C, 3R (a part of a plurality of arms that connect a reel rotation shaft and a cylindrical peripheral surface portion to which a reel seat is mounted). A configuration is adopted in which a light sensor including a light emitting unit and a light receiving unit is installed at a position corresponding to the detection piece to detect a change in light (such as light shielding or reflection) caused by the detection piece that moves with rotation. be able to. In addition, the structure using not only the structure which uses the optical sensor which consists of a light emission part and a light-receiving part but a suitable non-contact sensor, such as an electrostatic capacitance sensor, is also applicable. In addition, the configuration of detecting the reel index on the structure of the main reels 3L, 3C, 3R is not limited to the configuration of detecting the reel index on the structure of the stepping motors 49L, 49C, 49R.

  In the gaming machine 1, when a signal is output from the start switch 6S that starts the unit game on condition that a medal is inserted, a control signal is output to the motor drive circuit 39, and drive control of the stepping motors 49L, 49C, and 49R is performed. The rotation of the main reels 3L, 3C, 3R is started by (for example, excitation to each phase). At this time, the number of drive pulses output to the stepping motors 49L, 49C, 49R via the motor drive circuit 39 is counted, and the counted value is stored as a pulse counter. The stepping motors 49L, 49C, and 49R are four-phase motors, and a two-phase excitation method that simultaneously excites two-phase drive coils is applied (see FIG. 9 described later). When 16 drive pulses are output to the stepping motors 49L, 49C, 49R, the main reels 3L, 3C, 3R rotate by one symbol. Further, the number of symbols rotated is counted, and the counted value is stored as a symbol counter. That is, every time 16 pulses are counted by the pulse counter, the symbol counter is updated by one.

  Each time the main reels 3L, 3C, 3R make one rotation, the reel index described above is detected by the reel position detection circuit 50 and output to the CPU 31. The CPU 31 resets the pulse counter and the symbol counter according to the output of the reel index. In this way, the rotation position on each main reel 3L, 3C, 3R within the range of one rotation for each main reel 3L, 3C, 3R can be specified.

  When the reel index is output, the CPU 31 outputs a reel index command indicating that the reel index has been detected to the sub control circuit 72 via the output unit of the microcomputer 30. As a result, the sub-control circuit 72 can recognize that the reel index has been detected.

  Here, a symbol table (not shown) is provided in the ROM 32 in order to associate the rotational positions of the main reels 3L, 3C, 3R with the symbols drawn on the outer peripheral surfaces of the main reels 3L, 3C, 3R. Is stored in the ROM 32. In this symbol table, the code numbers from 00 to 20 (see FIG. 3) that are sequentially assigned to the symbols of the main reels 3L, 3C, and 3R with reference to the position where the reel index is output, respectively, A symbol code for identifying the type of symbol provided corresponding to each code number is associated. The main control circuit 71 can specify the position and type of symbols on the main reels 3L, 3C, 3R by referring to the symbol counter and the symbol table.

  When a signal is output from the start switch 6S, random number sampling is performed by the random number generator 36 and the sampling circuit 37, and a probability lottery process described later is performed based on the extracted random number value, and the internal winning combination is determined. The

  After the main reels 3L, 3C, 3R reach constant speed rotation, when a signal is output from the stop switch 7S by a stop operation, the main reels 3L, 3C are based on the output signal and the determined internal winning combination. , 3R is controlled to be output to the motor drive circuit 39. The motor drive circuit 39 drives and controls the stepping motors 49L, 49C, 49R, and stops the rotation of the main reels 3L, 3C, 3R.

  When the rotation of all the main reels 3L, 3C, 3R is stopped, the display combination search process is performed based on the combination of symbols displayed at a predetermined position (for example, the center line 8c). The display combination search is similar to a payout table shown in FIG. 6 described later, and is performed based on a display combination determination table (not shown) stored in the ROM 32. In this display combination determination table, a combination of symbols related to winning, a corresponding payout, and a corresponding determination code are set. When it is determined by the display combination search that a combination of symbols related to winning is displayed, a control signal is output to the hopper driving circuit 41 and the hopper 40 is driven to pay out medals. If the credit mode is switched by the C / P switch 14S, medals for the number of payouts are credited. Here, the payout or credit of medals may be collectively referred to as “payout”.

  Next, the circuit configuration of the sub control circuit 72 will be described with reference to FIG. The main control circuit 71 controls the entire game such as the progress of the game, while the sub control circuit 72 controls the effects related to the game by displaying images and outputting sounds and lamps. The main control circuit 71 and the sub-control circuit 72 are electrically connected by a harness or the like, and the sub-control circuit 72 produces effects based on various commands (such as a start command described later) transmitted from the main control circuit 71. Various processes such as determination and execution are performed.

  The sub control circuit 72 includes an image control circuit (gSub) 72a and a sound / lamp control circuit (mSub) 72b. The image control circuit (gSub) 72 a or the sound / lamp control circuit (mSub) 72 b is configured on a circuit board different from the circuit board constituting the main control circuit 71.

  Communication between the main control circuit 71 and the image control circuit (gSub) 72a is performed in one direction from the main control circuit 71 to the image control circuit (gSub) 72a, and the image control circuit (gSub) 72a is connected to the main control circuit. No command, information or the like is input to 71. Communication between the image control circuit (gSub) 72a and the sound / lamp control circuit (mSub) 72b is performed in one direction from the image control circuit (gSub) 72a to the sound / lamp control circuit (mSub) 72b. The sound / lamp control circuit (mSub) 72b does not input commands, information, etc. to the image control circuit (gSub) 72a.

  The image control circuit (gSub) 72a includes an image control microcomputer 81, a serial port 82, a program ROM 83, a work RAM 84, a calendar IC 85, an image control IC 86, a control RAM 87, an image ROM {CROM (character ROM)} 88, and a video RAM 89. The

  The image control microcomputer 81 includes a CPU, an interrupt controller, and an input / output port (a serial port is shown). The CPU provided in the image control microcomputer 81 is based on the command transmitted from the main control circuit 71 and effects data (image information, light emission) in accordance with a control program (for example, see FIG. 24 described later) stored in the program ROM 83. Various processes such as determination and output (including pattern information and sound information) are performed. Similarly to the main control circuit 71, the image control circuit (gSub) 72a includes a clock pulse generation circuit, a frequency divider, a random number generator, and a sampling circuit, and is connected to the image control microcomputer 81 ( Not shown). These are configured to execute random number sampling.

  The serial port 82 receives information (such as a reel index detection command) transmitted from the main control circuit 71. The program ROM 83 is a control program (for example, see FIG. 24 described later) executed by the image control microcomputer 81, various tables (for example, a symbol table having the same configuration as the symbol table stored in the ROM 32 of the main control circuit 71), etc. Remember. The work RAM 84 is configured as a temporary storage unit for work when the image control microcomputer 81 executes the control program described above. Various information is set in the work RAM 84. For example, various information such as information extracted from various commands received from the main control circuit 71 and a symbol counter and a pulse counter updated in the same manner as the main control circuit 71 are set.

  The calendar IC 85 stores date data. An operation unit 17 is connected to the image control microcomputer 81. In the embodiment, the date setting or the like is performed by operating the operation unit 17 by a hall clerk or the like. The image control microcomputer 81 stores the date information set based on the input signal transmitted from the operation unit 17 in the calendar IC 85. The date information stored in the calendar IC 85 is backed up.

  The work RAM 84 and calendar IC 85 described above are backup targets. That is, even when the power supplied to the image control microcomputer 81 is shut off, the power is continuously supplied, and the stored information and the like are prevented from being erased.

  The image control IC 86 generates an image corresponding to the effect data determined by the image control microcomputer 81 and outputs it to the liquid crystal display device 5.

  The control RAM 87 is included in the image control IC 86. The image control microcomputer 81 writes and reads information and the like with respect to the control RAM 87. In the control RAM 87, a register of the image control IC 86, a sprite attribute table, and a color palette table are developed. The image control microcomputer 81 updates the register of the image control IC 86 and the sprite attribute table at predetermined timings.

  The image control IC 86 is connected to the liquid crystal display device 5, the image ROM 88, and the video RAM 89. The image ROM 88 may be connected to the image control microcomputer 81. In this case, the configuration may be effective when processing a large amount of image data such as three-dimensional image data.

  The image ROM 88 stores image data, dot data, and the like for generating an image. For example, characters such as people and animals, sprite image data such as symbols, characters, and figures, background image data, and the like are stored. Sprite image data is an image to be displayed superimposed on a background image (background surface). The image ROM 88 includes image data related to the sub reels 53L, 53C, and 53R described above, such as symbol image data, image data defining a variation display pattern and a stop display pattern of the symbol image.

  The video RAM 89 is configured as a temporary storage unit when an image is generated by the image control IC 86. The image control IC 86 transmits a signal to the image control microcomputer 81 every time data in the video RAM 89 is transferred to the liquid crystal display device 5.

  In the image control circuit (gSub) 72a, the image control microcomputer 81 also controls the effects of sound and lamps. The image control microcomputer 81 determines the type of sound / lamp and the output timing based on the determined effect data. The image control microcomputer 81 transmits a command to the sound / lamp control circuit (mSub) 72b via the serial port 82 at every predetermined timing. In the sound / lamp control circuit (mSub) 72b, only the sound / lamp output is performed mainly in accordance with the command transmitted from the image control circuit (gSub) 72a (excluding the volume adjustment control described later). .

  The sound / lamp control circuit (mSub) 72b includes a sound / lamp control microcomputer 91, a serial port 92, a program ROM 93, a work RAM 94, a sound source IC 95, a power amplifier 96, and a sound source ROM 97.

  The sound / lamp control microcomputer 91 includes a CPU, an interrupt controller, and an input / output port (a serial port is shown). The CPU provided in the sound / lamp control microcomputer 91 performs sound / lamp output processing according to the control program stored in the program ROM 93 based on the command transmitted from the image control circuit (gSub) 72a. The sound / lamp control microcomputer 91 is connected to the LED 101 and the lamp 102. The sound / lamp control microcomputer 91 transmits an output signal to the LED 101 and the lamp 102 in response to a command transmitted at a predetermined timing from the image control circuit (gSub) 72a. Thereby, LED101 and the lamp | ramp 102 light-emit in the predetermined | prescribed aspect according to a command.

  The serial port 92 receives a command or the like transmitted from the image control circuit (gSub) 72a. The program ROM 93 stores a control program executed by the sound / lamp control microcomputer 91 and the like. The work RAM 94 is configured as a temporary storage means for work when the sound / lamp control microcomputer 91 executes the control program described above.

  The sound source IC 95 generates a sound source based on the command transmitted from the image control circuit (gSub) 72 a and outputs the sound source to the power amplifier 96. The power amplifier 96 is an amplifier, and speakers 21L and 21R are connected to the power amplifier 96. The power amplifier 96 amplifies the sound source output from the sound source IC 95 and outputs the amplified sound source from the speakers 21L and 21R. The sound source ROM 97 stores sound source data (phrase etc.) for generating a sound source.

  The sound / lamp control microcomputer 91 is connected to a volume control unit 103. The volume control unit 103 can be operated by a game clerk or the like, and the volume output from the speakers 21L and 21R is adjusted. The sound / lamp control microcomputer 91 performs control to adjust the sound output from the speakers 21 </ b> L and 21 </ b> R to the input volume based on the input signal transmitted from the volume control unit 103.

  Next, with reference to FIG. 6, the combination of symbols corresponding to the display combination and the payout will be described. The display combination of the gaming machine 1 includes cherry, bell, watermelon, replay, BB (so-called “big bonus”), RB (so-called “regular bonus”), SRB (RB established in a general gaming state during BB described later), and Loss is set.

  The cherry is established when the cherry (symbol 65) is displayed on any one of the upper, middle, and lower stages of the left display window 4L. As a result, a cherry is won and two medals are paid out. Further, when the cherry is displayed on the upper or lower stage of the left display window 4L, it is established on two effective lines, so that four (2 × 2) medals are paid out.

  The bell is established by displaying three bells (symbol 64) side by side along the active line. As a result, a bell is won and 10 medals are paid out.

  The watermelon is established by displaying three watermelons (symbol 63) side by side along the active line. As a result, the watermelon is won and six medals are paid out.

  Replay is established by displaying three replays (symbol 66) side by side along the active line. Thereby, the re-game is performed in the next unit game. That is, the same number of medals as the number of coins inserted in the unit game in which replay is established are automatically inserted in the next unit game without being based on the player's insertion operation. Thereby, the player can perform the next unit game without consuming medals.

  BB is established by displaying three reds 7 (symbol 61) side by side along the active line. When BB is established, the BB gaming state (more specifically, the general gaming state during BB) is activated.

  RB is established when three BARs (symbol 62) are displayed along the active line. When RB is established, the RB gaming state is activated.

  The SRB is established by displaying bell (symbol 64) -bell (symbol 64) -Replay (symbol 66) along the active line. When the SRB is established during the BB general gaming state, the RB gaming state is activated.

  Further, when a symbol combination other than the symbol combinations related to cherry, bell, watermelon, replay, BB, RB, and SRB is displayed, a loss is established.

  Here, the gaming state of the embodiment will be described. The gaming state predetermined for the gaming machine 1 includes a general gaming state, an internal winning state, a BB general gaming state, and an RB gaming state. The transition between the game states is performed by the CPU 31 according to the program stored in the ROM 32 described above.

  When the internal winning combination relating to the operation of the bonus is determined in the general gaming state, the gaming state is updated to the internal winning state. In the gaming machine 1, when the internal winning combination related to the bonus operation is determined, the internal winning combination related to the bonus operation is stored until the combination of symbols related to the bonus operation is displayed (generally, “ This is called “carryover”, and the memorized internal winning combination is called “carryover”). While the internal winning combination related to the operation of the bonus is stored, the internal winning state continues. The internal winning state in which the internal winning combination relating to the operation of BB is carried over is the BB internal winning state, and the internal winning state in which the internal winning combination relating to the operation of the RB is carried over is the RB internal winning state.

  In the RB internal winning state, when a combination of symbols related to RB operation is displayed, RB is established and the RB gaming state is activated. In the RB gaming state, the probability of determining the internal winning combination (bell in the embodiment) related to the display combination having a larger number of payouts than other internal winning combinations is higher than in other gaming states. In addition, the RB gaming state indicates that the number of unit games that can be performed in the RB gaming state (hereinafter referred to as “the number of games that can be played”) reaches eight times, or the number of times that a winning can be established (hereinafter, “ The game ends when the number of wins possible) reaches 8 times. Note that the RB gaming state is a gaming state configured by a unit game in which the first type special combination is operating.

  In the BB internal winning state, when a combination of symbols related to the operation of the BB is displayed, the BB is established and the general gaming state during the BB is operated. In the BB general gaming state, the probability that the internal winning combination related to the operation of the RB is determined is higher than in other gaming states, and the RB may operate with a high probability. Here, a gaming state composed of a general gaming state during BB and an RB gaming state in the general gaming state during BB is referred to as a BB gaming state. The BB gaming state is terminated when the total number of medals that can be paid out in the BB gaming state (hereinafter, “paid-out number”) reaches a predetermined number (for example, 460). Note that the BB gaming state is a gaming state configured by a unit game in which the accessory continuous operation device according to the first type special accessory is operating.

  Next, a probability lottery table used when determining an internal winning combination will be described with reference to FIG. The probability lottery table is provided for each gaming state, and defines an internal winning combination that may be determined, a random range in which each internal winning combination is determined, and a winning probability. The random number range used in this probability lottery table is “0-16383”.

  (1) of FIG. 7 shows the general gaming state probability lottery table. In the general game state probability lottery table, there is a possibility that any one of cherry, bell, watermelon, replay, BB, RB, or lose will be determined as an internal winning combination. The random number range and the winning probability determined for each internal winning combination are as shown in the figure.

  (2) of FIG. 7 shows an internal winning state probability lottery table. In the internal lottery status probability lottery table, there is a possibility that one of cherry, bell, watermelon, replay, or lose will be determined as the internal winning combination. The random number range and the winning probability determined for each internal winning combination are as shown in the figure. In the internal winning state, no bonus is determined, and the probability of determining an internal winning combination other than a loss is set equal to the general gaming state probability lottery table.

  (3) of FIG. 7 shows the probability lottery table for the general gaming state during BB. In the BB general gaming state probability lottery table, there is a possibility that any one of cherry, bell, watermelon, replay, RB, SRB, or lose will be determined as the internal winning combination. The random number range and the winning probability determined for each internal winning combination are as shown in the figure. Further, in the general gaming state during BB, an SRB that is not determined in other gaming states is determined, and the winning probability thereof is set higher than that of other internal winning combinations. As a result, in the general gaming state during BB, the RB gaming state can be continuously operated.

  FIG. 7 (4) shows an RB gaming state probability lottery table. In the RB gaming state probability lottery table, there is a possibility that any one of cherry, bell, watermelon, or lose will be determined as the internal winning combination. The random number range and the winning probability determined for each internal winning combination are as shown in the figure. Further, in the RB gaming state, the probability that a bell is determined is extremely high and the probability that a loss is determined is extremely low compared to other gaming states. Further, in the RB gaming state, since the maximum inserted number is set to 1, the ratio of the payout number to the inserted number (so-called payout rate) can be increased. Therefore, in the RB game state, the player can increase the chances of acquiring medals, and therefore, it is possible to play a game that is more advantageous to the player than the general game state or the internal winning state.

  Next, the acceleration table will be described with reference to FIG. The acceleration table is used in an acceleration control process (see FIG. 19) described later or a stop control process (see FIG. 21) described later. An acceleration table counter and an acceleration timer are defined in the acceleration table, and an acceleration timer corresponding to the acceleration table counter is determined.

  The acceleration timer is updated based on a periodic interrupt process (see FIG. 16) every 1.1173 msec described later. The acceleration table counter is updated when the corresponding acceleration timer is updated to zero. Further, every time the acceleration table counter is updated, the stepping motors 49L, 49C, and 49R are excited once. In the acceleration table, the time spent for performing one excitation for the stepping motors 49L, 49C, and 49R is obtained by multiplying the acceleration timer corresponding to each acceleration table counter by the time required for the interrupt processing. That is, the acceleration timer indicates the number of times to wait for the interrupt process before exciting the stepping motors 49L, 49C, and 49R.

  Next, the excitation pattern table will be described with reference to FIG. In the excitation pattern table, an excitation pattern counter and an excitation pattern are defined, and an excitation pattern corresponding to the excitation pattern counter is determined.

  Four excitation patterns are defined. The excitation pattern counter is defined as 0 to 3 according to the excitation pattern. In the excitation pattern counter 0, excitation is performed on the 1 phase and 4 phases of the stepping motors 49L, 49C, 49R. In the excitation pattern counter 1, excitation is performed in four phases and three phases. In the excitation pattern counter 2, excitation is performed in three phases and two phases. In the excitation pattern counter 3, excitation is performed in two phases and one phase. When the excitation with the excitation pattern corresponding to the excitation pattern counter 3 is completed, the process proceeds to the excitation pattern counter 0, and the excitation with the excitation patterns corresponding to the excitation pattern counters 0 to 3 is repeated again.

  Next, the control operation of the CPU 31 of the main control circuit 71 will be described with reference to the flowcharts shown in FIGS. First, with reference to FIG. 10, the reset interrupt processing by the CPU 31 of the main control circuit 71 will be described. The CPU 31 is configured to generate a reset interrupt when the power is turned on and a voltage is applied to the reset terminal, and sequentially perform the reset interrupt processing stored in the ROM 32 based on the generation of the interrupt. Has been.

  First, when the power is turned on, the CPU 31 performs initialization at the start of the game (step S1). Specifically, initialization of the storage contents of the RAM 33, initialization of communication data, and the like are performed.

  Next, the CPU 31 clears the designated RAM area at the end of the game (step S2). Specifically, the CPU 31 erases data in the writable area in the RAM 33 used for the previous unit game, writes parameters necessary for the current unit game in the writable area in the RAM 33, and sequence in the current unit game. Specify the start address of the program.

  Next, the CPU 31 performs medal insertion / start check processing (step S3). First, in the medal insertion check process, the CPU 31 determines whether the medal sensor 22S has detected the passage of a medal, whether the BET switches 11S, 12S, 13S are turned on, or based on the replay operating flag. It is determined whether or not a replay has been established in the unit game, and medal insertion processing is performed based on each determination result. Specifically, the CPU 31 updates the insertion number counter set in the RAM 33 according to the determination result of the medal sensor 22S, the BET switches 11S, 12S, 13S or the replay operation flag. The replay operating flag is information for identifying whether or not replay is established. The inserted number counter is information for specifying the inserted number in the current unit game.

  Further, the CPU 31 validates the winning line according to the value of the inserted number counter. For example, if the inserted number counter is 3, the CPU 31 performs a display combination search process to be described later based on the combination of symbols displayed on all winning lines. Subsequently, in the start check process in step S3, the CPU 31 starts on the condition that a medal is inserted {for example, the inserted number counter is 1 or more or the inserted number counter is the maximum value 3}. Processing for determining whether or not the start switch 6S is turned on by the operation is performed.

  Next, when the CPU 31 determines that the start switch 6S is turned on in step S3, the random number generator 36 and the sampling circuit 37 extract a random number value for lottery used in the probability lottery process described later (step S4). .

  Next, the CPU 31 performs a gaming state monitoring process which will be described later with reference to FIG. 11 (step S5). In this gaming state monitoring process, the CPU 31 sets information for identifying the gaming state in the current unit game in the RAM 33 based on the RB operating flag and carryover combination information.

  Next, the CPU 31 performs a probability lottery process which will be described later with reference to FIG. 12 (step S6). In this probability lottery process, the CPU 31 determines an internal winning combination based on the above-described probability lottery table (see FIG. 7). Further, the CPU 31 sets information for identifying the determined internal winning combination in the RAM 33.

  Next, the CPU 31 performs a winning combination determination process for stopping (step S7). In the stop winning combination determination process, the CPU 31 determines a stop winning combination based on the gaming state, the internal winning combination, and the carryover combination. If the gaming state is other than the internal winning state, the CPU 31 determines the internal winning combination determined in step S6 as the winning winning combination as it is. For example, if the internal winning combination is bell, the bell is determined as the winning combination for stopping. In addition, if the gaming state is the internal winning state and the determined internal winning combination is lost, the CPU 31 determines BB or RB as the stop winning combination depending on the carryover combination. In addition, if the CPU 31 is in the internal winning state and the determined internal winning combination is a replay, the CPU 31 determines the replay as a winning combination for stopping. It can be said that the winning winning combination is basically the same as the internal winning combination determined by the probability lottery table.

  Next, the CPU 31 transmits a start command to the sub control circuit 72 (step S8). The start command includes, for example, information such as a gaming state and an internal winning combination.

  Next, the CPU 31 determines whether 4.1 seconds have elapsed since the start of the previous rotation of the main reels 3L, 3C, 3R (step S9). When it is determined that 4.1 seconds have not elapsed, the CPU 31 performs a wait process (step S10). In this wait process, the CPU 31 performs a standby process without performing the subsequent processes until 4.1 seconds elapse from the start of the rotation of the main reels 3L, 3C, 3R.

  When it is determined in step S9 that 4.1 seconds have elapsed, or when the wait process of step S10 is performed, the CPU 31 sets a game monitoring timer in the RAM 33 (step S11). The CPU 31 performs the above-described 4.1 second timing by the set game monitoring timer.

  Next, the CPU 31 requests the start of rotation of all main reels (step S12). For example, the CPU 31 performs processing such as turning on a rotation start request flag set in the RAM 33. When the start of rotation of all the main reels 3L, 3C, 3R is requested, the reel control process (step S115, step S117, step S119) of periodic interruption processing every 1.1173 msec, which will be described later with reference to FIG. , Rotation start processing and acceleration control processing of the main reels 3L, 3C, 3R are performed.

  Next, when determining that the rotation speeds of the main reels 3L, 3C, 3R have reached constant speed rotation, the CPU 31 transmits a reel stop permission command to the sub-control circuit 72 (step S13). The reel stop permission command includes information indicating that the detection of the stop switch 7S has become effective.

  Next, the CPU 31 will be described with reference to a reel stop control process which will be described later with reference to FIG. 13 (step S14). In this reel stop control process, rotation stop control of the main reels 3L, 3C, 3R is performed based on whether or not the stop switch 7S is turned on.

  Next, the CPU 31 performs a display combination search process (step S15). In this display combination search process, the CPU 31 identifies a display combination based on the code numbers of symbols arranged on the active line and the display combination determination table stored in the ROM 32. Further, the CPU 31 sets a display combination flag for identifying the display combination and information on the number of payouts corresponding to the display combination in the RAM 33. For example, when bells (symbol 64) are displayed side by side on the center line 8c, the CPU 31 displays a display combination flag for identifying that the display combination is a bell, and a payout number for specifying that the number of payouts is 10. Set information.

  Next, the CPU 31 transmits a display combination command to the sub control circuit 72 (step S16). The display combination command includes information on a display combination flag for specifying the display combination.

  Next, when the CPU 31 determines that the number of payouts corresponding to the established display combination is not 0, it performs a medal payout process (step S17). When the credit mode is set, the CPU 31 updates the credit counter set in the RAM 33 based on the payout number information. When the credit counter is updated, the value of the credit counter is displayed on the information display unit 18 in the 7SEG driving process (step S120) of a periodic interrupt process (see FIG. 16) every 1.1173 msec described later. When the payout mode is set, the CPU 31 controls the hopper 40 by the hopper drive circuit 41 based on the payout number information to pay out medals. If the display combination is replay, the CPU 31 turns on the replay operating flag.

  Next, the CPU 31 transmits a payout end command to the sub control circuit 72 (step S18). The payout end command includes information indicating that one unit game has ended.

  Next, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the BB operating flag or the RB operating flag set in the RAM 33 is on (step S19). When determining that the BB operating flag or the RB operating flag is not on, the CPU 31 performs a bonus operation check process (step S20). In this bonus operation check process, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the display combination is BB or RB. When determining that the display combination is BB, the CPU 31 clears the carryover combination and turns on the BB operation flag. Then, a value of 460 is set in the payable sheet counter. On the other hand, when it is determined that the display combination is RB, the CPU 31 clears the carryover combination, turns on the RB operating flag, and sets the value of 8 in each of the possible game number counter and the possible winning number counter. When this process ends, the process proceeds to step S2.

  When determining that the BB operating flag or the RB operating flag is on, the CPU 31 performs a bonus end check process described later with reference to FIG. 15 (step S21). The CPU 31 performs an update process of the payout possible number counter, the possible game number counter, or the possible winning number counter, and performs processing at the end of each bonus based on the update result. When this process ends, the process proceeds to step S2.

  As described above, the CPU 31 executes the process from step S2 to step S20 or step S21 as the process in the unit game, and when the process in step S20 or step S21 ends, the CPU 31 executes the process in the next unit game. The process proceeds to S2.

  Next, the gaming state monitoring process will be described with reference to FIG. First, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the BB operating flag or the RB operating flag is on (step S51). When the CPU 31 determines that the BB operating flag or the RB operating flag is ON, the CPU 31 sets the BB general gaming state or the RB gaming state (step S52). Specifically, the CPU 31 sets the BB general gaming state if the BB operating flag is on, and sets the RB gaming state if the RB operating flag is on. When this process ends, the gaming state monitoring process ends, and the process proceeds to step S6 in FIG.

  When determining in step S51 that the BB operating flag or the RB operating flag is not on, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the carryover combination is set (step S53). When determining that the carryover combination is set, the CPU 31 sets the internal winning state (step S54). When this process ends, the gaming state monitoring process ends, and the process proceeds to step S6 in FIG.

  If the CPU 31 determines in step S53 that the carryover combination is not set, it sets the general gaming state (step S55). When this process ends, the gaming state monitoring process ends, and the process proceeds to step S6 in FIG.

  Next, the probability lottery process will be described with reference to FIG. First, the CPU 31 refers to the gaming state set in the RAM 33, and determines whether or not it is a general gaming state during BB (step S61). When the CPU 31 determines that it is in the BB general gaming state, it determines an internal winning combination based on the extracted random number value and the BB general gaming state probability lottery table {see (3) in FIG. 7} (step). S62).

  When the CPU 31 determines in step S61 that it is not in the BB general gaming state, it determines whether or not it is in the RB gaming state (step S63). When determining that the player is in the RB gaming state, the CPU 31 determines an internal winning combination based on the extracted random number value and the RB gaming state probability lottery table {see (4) in FIG. 7} (step S64).

  If the CPU 31 determines in step S63 that it is not in the RB gaming state, it determines whether or not it is in the internal winning state (step S65). When the CPU 31 determines that it is in the internal winning state, it determines an internal winning combination based on the extracted random number value and the internal winning state probability lottery table {see (2) in FIG. 7} (step S66).

  When the CPU 31 determines in step S65 that it is not in the internal winning state, it determines an internal winning combination based on the extracted random number value and the general gaming state probability lottery table {see (1) in FIG. 7} (step S67). ).

  Next, when the internal winning combination is determined according to each gaming state, the CPU 31 determines whether the determined internal winning combination is BB or RB (step S68). When determining that the determined internal winning combination is neither BB nor RB, the CPU 31 ends the probability lottery process and proceeds to step S7 in FIG.

  When determining that the internal winning combination determined in step S68 is either BB or RB, the CPU 31 sets a carryover combination based on the internal winning combination (step S69). For example, if the internal winning combination is BB (or RB), the CPU 31 sets BB (or RB) as the carryover combination. When this process ends, the probability lottery process ends, and the process proceeds to step S7 in FIG.

  Next, the reel stop control process will be described with reference to FIG. First, the CPU 31 determines whether or not a valid stop switch is on (step S71). The CPU 31 determines whether or not the stop switch 7S is turned on based on a stop operation by the player when the main reels 3L, 3C, and 3R are under constant speed control.

  When determining that the effective stop switch is not on in step S71, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the automatic stop timer is 0 (step S72). When determining that the automatic stop timer is not 0, the CPU 31 repeats the process of step S71.

  The CPU 31 determines whether or not the pulse counter of the RAM 33 is smaller than 14 when it is determined in step S71 that the effective stop switch is on, or when the automatic stop timer is determined to be 0 in step S72. (Step S73). Thereby, it is determined whether or not the position is appropriate for starting the stop control.

  When determining that the pulse counter is smaller than 14 in step S73, the CPU 31 performs a symbol update process which will be described later with reference to FIG. 14 (step S74). By performing this process, it waits until it reaches an appropriate position for starting the stop control.

  When it is determined in step S73 that the pulse counter is greater than 14, or when the symbol update process in step S74 is performed, the CPU 31 performs a sliding frame number determination process (step S75). In this sliding frame number determination process, the CPU 31 determines the number of sliding frames from the range of “0 to 4” based on the winning combination for stop and the stop start position.

  When the stop switch 7S outputs a signal (or when the automatic stop timer becomes 0), the stop start position is the symbol located on the center line 8c (specifically, the center of the symbol is the center). It is specified by a code number of a symbol located above the line 8c and whose center is closest to the position of the center line 8c. Here, in the gaming machine 1, after the signal is output by the stop switch 7S, the control of stopping the rotation of the main reels 3L, 3C, 3R is performed within 190 msec, and the so-called number of sliding frames is set to a maximum of 4 frames. ing. For example, when the watermelon (symbol 63) with code number 15 reaches the position of the center line 8c during rotation of the right main reel 3R (see FIG. 3), if a signal is output by the stop switch 7S, the code number 19 It is possible to stop the rotation of the right main reel 3R so that the display (symbol 66) is displayed at a position on the center line 8c.

  When determining the number of sliding symbols, the CPU 31 first identifies a symbol located on the center line 8c as the stop start position, and based on the identified symbol, the symbol on the active line is related to the winning combination for stopping. It is determined whether or not. If the CPU 31 determines that there is no symbol related to the winning winning combination on the active line, the CPU 31 searches for the symbol related to the winning winning combination within the range of 4 frames from the specified symbol. When the symbol related to the winning combination for stop is obtained as a result of the search, the CPU 31 determines the difference from the stop start position to the code number of the symbol obtained as a result of the search as the number of sliding frames and sets it in the RAM 33.

  Next, the CPU 31 transmits a reel stop command to the sub control circuit 72 (step S76). The reel stop command includes information on the type of the main reel that is subject to stop control and the number of sliding frames.

  Next, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the number of sliding frames determined in step S75 is 0 (step S77). When the CPU 31 determines that the number of sliding symbols is not 0, the CPU 31 performs a symbol update process which will be described later with reference to FIG. 14 (step S78). In the symbol update process, a process of waiting until the symbol moves by one frame is performed. When the symbol updating process is performed, the CPU 31 subtracts 1 from the sliding frame number counter in the RAM 33 (step S79). Subsequently, it is determined whether or not the sliding frame number counter has become 0 (step S80). When the CPU 31 determines that the sliding frame number counter is not 0, the symbol updating process in step S78 is repeated.

  If the CPU 31 determines in step S77 or step S80 that the sliding frame counter is 0, it requests the main reel to stop rotating (step S81). For example, the CPU 31 performs processing such as turning on a reel rotation stop request flag set in the RAM 33. When the rotation stop of the main reels 3L, 3C, 3R is requested, the stop request is made in the reel control process (step S115, step S117, step S119) of the periodic interrupt process (see FIG. 16) every 1.1173 msec. Processing and stop control processing are performed.

  Next, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the last main reel is stopped (step S82). When the CPU 31 determines that the last main reel is not stopped, the CPU 31 proceeds to step S71, and performs a process of determining whether or not the stop switch corresponding to the remaining main reel being rotated is ON. When the CPU 31 determines that the last main reel has been stopped, the CPU 31 ends the reel stop control process and proceeds to the process of step S15 in FIG.

  Next, the symbol update process will be described with reference to FIG. First, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the symbol counter has changed (step S91). The symbol counter indicates the number of symbols moved from the position where the reel index is detected with reference to the position where the reel index is detected. The pulse counter indicates the number of drive pulses output to the stepping motors 49L, 49C, 49R when the reel index is detected. The symbol counter is configured to add 1 by updating the pulse counter from 16 to 0. The CPU 31 determines that the symbol counter has changed when the symbol counter is incremented by one. When it is determined that the symbol counter has not changed, the CPU 31 stands by until the symbol counter changes. On the other hand, when determining that the symbol counter has changed, the CPU 31 ends the symbol update process and proceeds to step S75 or step S79 in FIG.

  Next, the bonus end check process will be described with reference to FIG. First, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the RB operation flag is on (step S101). When the CPU 31 determines that the RB operating flag is on, the CPU 31 updates the number of possible games and the number of possible winnings (step S102). Specifically, the CPU 31 subtracts a value of 1 from the possible game number counter every time a unit game is performed. Further, the CPU 31 subtracts a value of 1 from the winning possible number counter if the display combination is any of watermelon, bell, and cherry.

  Next, the CPU 31 determines whether or not it is at the end of the RB gaming state (step S103). Specifically, if the CPU 31 determines that the value of the game possible number counter or the value of the winning possible number counter has been updated to 0, it determines that it is the end of the RB gaming state.

  When the CPU 31 determines in step S103 that the RB gaming state has ended, it performs RB end processing (step S104). In the RB end process, the CPU 31 performs a process such as turning off the RB operating flag.

  When it is determined in step S103 that the RB gaming state has not ended, or when the RB end processing is performed in step S104, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the BB operating flag is on (step S105). ). When determining that the BB operating flag is not on, the CPU 31 ends the bonus end check process and proceeds to step S2 in FIG.

  When the CPU 31 determines in step S101 that the RB operating flag is not on, or when it is determined in step S105 that the BB operating flag is on, the CPU 31 updates the payable number (step S106). For example, if the display combination is a bell, the CPU 31 subtracts 10 which is the payout number from the payable number counter.

  Next, the CPU 31 determines whether or not it is at the end of the BB gaming state (step S107). If the CPU 31 determines that the value of the payable number counter has been updated to 0, it determines that it is the end of the BB gaming state.

  If the CPU 31 determines in step S107 that the BB gaming state has ended, it performs BB end processing (step S108). In the BB end process, the CPU 31 performs a process such as turning off the BB operating flag. Further, when the BB gaming state is in the RB gaming state, the above-described RB end processing is also performed. When this process ends, the bonus end check process ends, and the process proceeds to step S2 in FIG.

  When the CPU 31 determines in step S107 that it is not at the end of the BB gaming state, it determines whether or not the display combination is RB (step S109). When the CPU 31 determines that the display combination is not RB, it ends the bonus end check process and proceeds to step S2 in FIG.

  When the CPU 31 determines that the display combination is RB in step S109, the CPU 31 performs RB operation processing (step S110). In the RB operation process, the carryover combination is cleared, the RB operation flag is set to ON, and 8 is set to each of the game possible number counter and the winning possible number counter. When this process ends, the bonus end check process ends, and the process proceeds to step S2 in FIG.

  Next, with reference to FIG. 16, the periodic interrupt processing every 1.1173 msec in the main control circuit 71 will be described. This interrupt process is a process that interrupts the main process in the main control circuit 71 at intervals of 1.1173 msec based on clock pulses.

  First, the CPU 31 performs an input port check process (step S111). Specifically, the CPU 31 performs processing for checking signals output from each switch and each circuit connected to the input port.

  Next, the CPU 31 adds 1 to the interrupt counter set in the RAM 33 (step S112). The interrupt counter is information indicating the number of interrupts, and 1 is added every 1.1173 msec.

  Next, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the interrupt counter is an even number (step S113). When determining that the interrupt counter is not an even number but an odd number, the CPU 31 sets information on the right main reel (step S114). Subsequently, the CPU 31 performs a reel control process which will be described later with reference to FIG. 17 (step S115). In this reel control process, a rotation start process, an acceleration control process, a stop request process, a stop control process, and the like are performed on the right main reel 3R.

  Next, the CPU 31 sets information on the middle main reel (step S116). Subsequently, the CPU 31 performs a reel control process which will be described later with reference to FIG. 17 (step S117). In this reel control process, a rotation start process, an acceleration control process, a stop request process, a stop control process, and the like are performed on the middle main reel 3C.

  Next, the CPU 31 sets information on the left main reel (step S118). Subsequently, the CPU 31 performs a reel control process which will be described later with reference to FIG. 17 (step S119). In this reel control process, a rotation start process, an acceleration control process, a stop request process, a stop control process, and the like are performed on the left main reel 3L.

  When it is determined in step S113 that the interrupt counter is an even number, or when the reel control process is performed in step S119, the CPU 31 performs the 7SEG drive process (step S120). In the 7SEG driving process, based on information such as each counter set in the RAM 33, control is performed to display on the information display unit 18 the number of payouts at the time of winning, the number of credited medals, and the like.

  Next, the CPU 31 performs a lamp driving process (step S121). In the lamp driving process, control is performed to turn on the BET lamps 9a, 9b, 9c and the like provided on the front surface of the gaming machine 1. When this process ends, the periodic interrupt process every 1.1173 msec ends.

  Next, the reel control processing will be described with reference to FIG. First, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the target main reels 3L, 3C, 3R are being controlled (step S131).

  When determining that the control is being performed in step S131, the CPU 31 determines whether or not a rotation start is requested (step S132). That is, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the rotation start request flag set in the RAM 33 is on. When determining that the rotation start is requested, the CPU 31 performs a rotation start process which will be described later with reference to FIG. 18 (step S133). When this process ends, the reel control process ends, and the process proceeds to any of step S116, step S118, or step S120 in the periodic interrupt process every 1.1173 msec in FIG.

  When it is determined in step S132 that the start of rotation is not requested, the CPU 31 refers to the control state of each main reel set in the RAM 33 to determine whether acceleration control is being performed (step S134). When determining that the acceleration control is being performed, the CPU 31 performs an acceleration control process which will be described later with reference to FIG. 19 (step S135). When this process ends, the reel control process ends, and the process proceeds to any of step S116, step S118, or step S120 in the periodic interrupt process every 1.1173 msec in FIG.

  When determining in step S134 that the acceleration control is not being performed, the CPU 31 determines whether or not rotation stop is requested (step S136). That is, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the rotation stop request flag set in the RAM 33 is on. When determining that the rotation stop is requested, the CPU 31 performs a stop request process described later with reference to FIG. 20 (step S137). When this process ends, the reel control process ends, and the process proceeds to any of step S116, step S118, or step S120 in the periodic interrupt process every 1.1173 msec in FIG.

  When determining in step S136 that rotation stop is not requested, the CPU 31 determines whether stop control is being performed (step S138). When determining that the stop control is being performed, the CPU 31 performs a stop control process which will be described later with reference to FIG. 21 (step S139). When this process ends, the stop control process ends, and the process proceeds to any of step S116, step S118, or step S120 in the periodic interrupt process every 1.1173 msec in FIG.

  When determining that the stop control is not being performed in step S138, the CPU 31 determines whether or not a reel index has been detected (step S140). When determining that the reel index has been detected, the CPU 31 sets 0 to the pulse counter (step S141). Subsequently, the CPU 31 sets 0 in the symbol counter (step S142).

  Next, the CPU 31 transmits a reel index detection command to the sub control circuit 72 (step S143). The reel index detection command includes information indicating that a reel index has been detected.

  When it is determined in step S140 that the reel index is not detected, or when a reel index detection command is transmitted in step S143, the CPU 31 performs a pulse counter update process which will be described later with reference to FIG. S144). When this process is completed, the reel control process is terminated, and the process proceeds to any one of steps S116, S118, and S120 in the periodic interrupt process every 1.1173 msec in FIG.

  Next, the rotation start process will be described with reference to FIG. First, the CPU 31 sets acceleration control in progress (step S151). Subsequently, the CPU 31 sets 0 in the acceleration table counter of the RAM 33 (step S152). Subsequently, the CPU 31 sets 1 to the acceleration timer of the RAM 33 (step S153). Subsequently, the CPU 31 performs an acceleration control process which will be described later with reference to FIG. 19 (step S154). When this process ends, the process proceeds to any of step S116, step S118, or step S120 in the periodic interrupt process every 1.1173 msec in FIG.

  Next, the acceleration control process will be described with reference to FIG. First, the CPU 31 decrements the acceleration timer in the RAM 33 by 1 (step S161).

  Next, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the acceleration timer is 0 (step S162). When the CPU 31 determines that the acceleration timer is not 0, the CPU 31 proceeds to any one of steps S116, S118, and S120 in the periodic interrupt processing every 1.1173 msec in FIG.

  When determining that the acceleration timer is 0 in step S162, the CPU 31 refers to the acceleration table (see FIG. 8) and sets the acceleration timer based on the acceleration table counter (step S163). Subsequently, the CPU 31 adds 1 to the acceleration table counter (step S164).

  Next, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the acceleration table counter is 5 (step S165). When it is determined that the acceleration table counter is 5, constant speed control is set (step S166).

  When it is determined in step S165 that the acceleration table counter is not 5 or when the constant speed control is set in step S166, the CPU 31 performs a pulse counter update process described later with reference to FIG. S167). When this process ends, the process proceeds to any of step S116, step S118, or step S120 in the periodic interrupt process every 1.1173 msec in FIG.

  Next, the stop request process will be described with reference to FIG. First, the CPU 31 sets stop control in progress (step S171). Subsequently, the CPU 31 performs a stop control process which will be described later with reference to FIG. 21 (step S172). When this process ends, the process proceeds to any of step S116, step S118, or step S120 in the periodic interrupt process every 1.1173 msec in FIG.

  Next, the stop control process will be described with reference to FIG. First, the CPU 31 decrements the acceleration timer by 1 (step S181). Subsequently, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the acceleration timer is 0 (step S182). When the CPU 31 determines that the acceleration timer is not 0, the CPU 31 proceeds to any one of steps S116, S118, and S120 in the periodic interrupt processing every 1.1173 msec in FIG.

  When determining that the acceleration timer is 0 in step S182, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the acceleration table counter is 9 (step S183). When determining that the acceleration table counter is not 9, the CPU 31 refers to the acceleration table (see FIG. 8), and sets an acceleration timer based on the acceleration table counter (step S184). Subsequently, the CPU 31 adds 1 to the acceleration table counter (step S185). Subsequently, the CPU 31 performs a pulse output process which will be described later with reference to FIG. 23 (step S186). When this process ends, the process proceeds to any of step S116, step S118, or step S120 in the periodic interrupt process every 1.1173 msec in FIG.

  When determining that the acceleration table counter is 9 in step S183, the CPU 31 performs processing for turning off all phases of the corresponding stepping motors 49L, 49C, 49R (step S187). Subsequently, the CPU 31 sets non-controlling (step S188). When this process ends, the process proceeds to any of step S116, step S118, or step S120 in the periodic interrupt process every 1.1173 msec in FIG.

  Next, the pulse counter update process will be described with reference to FIG. First, the CPU 31 subtracts 1 from the pulse counter (step S191).

  Next, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the pulse counter is 0 (step S192). When determining that the pulse counter is 0, the CPU 31 sets 16 to the pulse counter (step S193). Subsequently, the CPU 31 adds 1 to the symbol counter (step S194).

  Next, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the symbol counter exceeds 20 (step S195). When determining that the symbol counter exceeds 20, the CPU 31 clears the symbol counter (step S196).

  If it is determined in step S192 that the pulse counter is not 0, if it is determined in step S195 that the symbol counter does not exceed 20, or if the symbol counter is cleared in step S196, it will be described later with reference to FIG. The pulse output process is performed (step S197). When this process ends, the process proceeds to any of step S116, step S118, or step S120 in the periodic interrupt process every 1.1173 msec in FIG.

  Next, the pulse output process will be described with reference to FIG. First, the CPU 31 turns on the common signal (step S201).

  Next, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the excitation pattern counter in the RAM 33 is 3 (step S202). When it is determined that the excitation pattern counter is 3, “−1” is set in the excitation pattern counter (step S203).

  When the CPU 31 determines in step S202 that the excitation pattern counter is not 3, or when "-1" is set in the excitation pattern counter in step S203, the CPU 31 adds 1 to the excitation pattern counter (step S204).

  Next, the CPU 31 refers to the excitation pattern table (see FIG. 9) and turns on the excitation signal based on the excitation pattern counter (step S205). When this process ends, the process proceeds to any of step S116, step S118, or step S120 in the periodic interrupt process every 1.1173 msec in FIG.

  Next, the control operation of the sub control circuit 72 will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. FIG. 24 shows reset interrupt processing performed by the sub control circuit 72.

  The image control microcomputer 81 generates a reset interrupt by turning on the power and applying a voltage to the reset terminal, and sequentially executes the reset interrupt processing stored in the program ROM 83 based on the generation of the interrupt. Configured to do.

  First, the image control microcomputer 81 initializes the work RAM 84, the control RAM 87, the video RAM 89, and the like (step S301).

  Next, the image control microcomputer 81 performs input monitoring processing (step S302). In this input monitoring process, the image control microcomputer 81 performs a process for monitoring whether or not a signal is output from the operation unit 17. For example, the image control microcomputer 81 determines effect data (such as a menu screen) corresponding to the input from the operation unit 17 if there is an input from the operation unit 17 except during a game (such as during rotation of the main reel). The effect data determined here includes data for displaying the history of the gaming machine 1 and the like.

  Next, the image control microcomputer 81 performs command input processing (step S303). In this command input process, the image control microcomputer 81 receives each command such as a reel index detection command from the main control circuit 71. Further, in response to the received command, processing for determining the contents of the effect (that is, effect data) executed by the liquid crystal display device 5, the LED 101, the lamp 102, the speakers 21L and 21R, and the like are performed.

  For example, in the command input process, when the start command is received, the image control microcomputer 81 determines effect data (start) for starting rotation of the sub reels 53L, 53C, 53R. When the reel stop command is received by the command input process described above, the image control microcomputer 81 generates effect data (first stop), effect data (second stop), and effect data (first stop) according to each reel stop command. 3 stop).

  Next, the image control microcomputer 81 performs command output processing (step S304). In this command output process, the image control microcomputer 81 controls the image control IC 86 for driving and controlling the liquid crystal display device 5 and the sound / lamp control circuit (mSub) 72b for driving and controlling the LED 101, the lamp 102, and the speakers 21L and 21R. A command corresponding to the determined effect data is output. When this process ends, the process from step S302 is repeated.

  For example, in the command output process, when the presentation data (start) is determined, the image control microcomputer 81 links the sub reels 53L, 53C, 53R in the liquid crystal display device 5 in conjunction with the rotation of the main reels 3L, 3C, 3R. Performs variable display of symbol images. When the effect data (first stop), the effect data (second stop), and the effect data (third stop) are determined, the image control microcomputer 81 starts from the first stop of the main reels 3L, 3C, 3R. The symbol images on the sub reels 53L, 53C, and 53R are stopped and displayed in conjunction with the third stop.

  Here, by receiving the reel index detection command by the above-described command input processing, the image control microcomputer 81 can specify the rotational position of the main reels 3L, 3C, 3R.

  Specifically, the program ROM 83 of the sub-control circuit 72 stores a symbol table similar to that of the main control circuit 71, and the work RAM 84 similarly to the main control circuit 71 includes a pulse counter (hereinafter referred to as sub-use). A pulse counter) and a symbol counter (hereinafter referred to as a sub symbol counter) are set. Each time the image control microcomputer 81 measures a time (for example, 1.1173 msec × 2 during constant speed control) spent by the main control circuit 71 to subtract 1 from the pulse counter, the sub pulse counter Is updated one by one. The image control microcomputer 81 updates the sub symbol counter by 1 every time the sub pulse counter is updated by 16 each. Upon receiving the reel index detection command, the image control microcomputer 81 resets the sub pulse counter and the sub symbol counter, and again updates the sub pulse counter and the sub symbol counter based on the time measured by the timer. Repeat the process. As a result, the sub control circuit 72 can also specify the rotation position of the main reel (that is, the position of the symbol) within the range of one rotation.

  Thus, according to the present embodiment, when the reel index is detected in the main control circuit 71, a command to that effect is transmitted to the sub control circuit 72, and the sub control circuit 72 receives this command. Therefore, also in the sub control circuit 72, the rotational position of the main reels 3L, 3C, 3R controlled by the main control circuit 71 can be specified. For example, since the reel index is detected every time the main reels 3L, 3C, 3R make one rotation, the sub control circuit 72 has an error from the rotational position of the main reels 3L, 3C, 3R. However, based on the reel index, an error from the rotational position of the main reels 3L, 3C, 3R can be appropriately corrected for each rotation. As a result, the sub control circuit 72 can also recognize the rotational positions of the main reels 3L, 3C, 3R, so that the display of the sub reels 53L, 53C, 53R controlled by the sub control circuit 72 and the main reels 3L, 3C, Synchronization with 3R display can be achieved. As a result, it is possible to prevent the interest in the player's performance from deteriorating.

  Further, by transmitting the reel index to the sub-control circuit 72, the sub-control circuit 72 side can also recognize the rotational position of the main reels 3L, 3C, 3R, so the symbol positions of the main reels 3L, 3C, 3R It is possible to produce according to the situation. As an example of the production, in the liquid crystal display device 5, informing the timing of the stop operation that enables the symbol related to the determined internal winning combination to be displayed on the active line (so-called assistance of pressing), etc. Can be applied.

  According to the above embodiment, a gaming machine having the following configurations is realized.

  The gaming machine realized by the present embodiment has a symbol display means (for example, three symbols) having a plurality of reels on which a plurality of symbols are arranged and a display window for displaying a part of the symbols arranged on the reel. The main reels 3L, 3C, 3R, the three display windows 4L, 4C, 4R) and the effect display means (for example, the liquid crystal display device 5, LED 101, lamp 102, Speaker 21L, 21R), start operation detecting means (for example, start switch 6S) for detecting that a start operation for starting a unit game has been performed, and a stop operation for stopping the rotation of the reel are performed. When the start operation is detected by the stop operation detecting means (for example, the stop switch 7S) for detecting the breakage and the start operation detecting means, the reel is rotated. First control means (for example, main control circuit 71, reel stop control processing in FIG. 13, reel control processing in FIG. 17) for controlling the rotation of the reel to stop when the stop operation is detected by the stop operation detecting means; The second control means (for example, the sub-control circuit 72, the reset interrupt process of FIG. 24) for controlling the effect relating to the game performed by the effect means, and the reel is rotated once by the first control means. Rotation reference position detection means (for example, a reel position detection circuit 50) for detecting a rotation reference position (for example, a reel index), and the first control means performs the rotation by the rotation reference position detection means. When a reference position is detected, a transmission means (for example, a reel index detection command) indicating that fact is transmitted to the second control means (for example, 17, a process of transmitting a reel index detection command in step S143, and the second control unit receives a signal transmitted by the transmission unit (for example, command input in step S303 of FIG. 24). It is characterized by having processing.

  In addition, the gaming machine realized by the present embodiment has a symbol display means (for example, a plurality of display windows for displaying a part of a plurality of symbols arranged on the reel and a reel on which a plurality of symbols are arranged). Three main reels 3L, 3C, 3R, three display windows 4L, 4C, 4R) and a display row (for example, sub reels 53L, 53C, 53R) provided separately from the symbol display means and displaying a plurality of symbols. Are provided corresponding to the reels, thereby producing means for producing an effect relating to the game (for example, the liquid crystal display device 5) and starting operation detecting means for detecting that a starting operation for starting the unit game is performed ( For example, a start switch 6S), a stop operation detecting means (for example, a stop switch 7S) for detecting that a stop operation for stopping the rotation of the reel has been performed, When the start operation is detected by the start operation detecting means, the reel is rotated. When the stop operation is detected by the stop operation detecting means, the first control means (for example, a main control circuit) controls the stop of the reel rotation. 71, the reel stop control process of FIG. 13 and the reel control process of FIG. 17), and the first control means which controls the display of a plurality of symbols in the display row in conjunction with the rotation and stop of the reel. 2 A rotation reference position (for example, a reel index) is detected every time the reel is rotated once by the first control means (for example, the sub-control circuit 72, reset interrupt processing in FIG. 24) and the first control unit. A rotation reference position detection means (for example, a reel position detection circuit 50), wherein the first control means detects the rotation reference position by the rotation reference position detection means. And a signal indicating that (for example, a reel index detection command) is transmitted to the second control means (for example, a process of transmitting a reel index detection command in step S143 of FIG. 17), The second control means includes receiving means (for example, command input processing in step S303 in FIG. 24) for receiving the signal transmitted by the transmitting means.

  Note that the gaming machine is composed of symbol display means, presentation means, start operation detection means, stop operation detection means, first control means, second control means, rotation reference position detection means, transmission means, reception means, etc. The specific configuration is not limited to each element of the embodiment described above, and can be arbitrarily changed.

  In this embodiment, the liquid crystal display device 5 is configured to produce effects by displaying the sub reels 53L, 53C, and 53R. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the sub reels 53L, 53C, and 53R are not particularly provided. , 53C, and 53R can be performed differently from the display. For example, in conjunction with the appearance of a specific symbol (such as red 7) on the main reels 3L, 3C, 3R in the display windows 4L, 4C, 4R, a specific image is displayed by the liquid crystal display device 5, or a lamp Even if it is applied to a configuration in which a specific light emission pattern is output by 102 or a specific sound effect is output by the speakers 21L and 21R, the display of the main reels 3L, 3C, and 3R and effects such as images It is possible to synchronize with the output, and it is possible to prevent the interest in the player's performance from decreasing.

  Further, as the sub reels 53L, 53C, and 53R, reels that are displayed as images in the liquid crystal display device are applied. Also good.

  In addition, the sub reels 53L, 53C, and 53R display the symbol image that imitates the symbol that the main reels 3L, 3C, and 3R have, but the present invention is not limited to this, and the symbol images displayed on the sub reels 53L, 53C, and 53R are displayed. The aspect can be arbitrarily changed. For example, “7” corresponding to “red 7 (symbol 61)”, “☆” corresponding to “bell (symbol 64)”, etc., each symbol on the main reels 3L, 3C, 3R is changed to another You may make it respond | correspond by replacing with an aspect.

  Further, the number of symbols provided on the main reels 3L, 3C, 3R and the number of symbol images provided on the sub reels 53L, 53C, 53R are made to correspond to each other one by one. The number of symbols on the main reels 3L, 3C, 3R and the number of symbol images on the sub reels 53L, 53C, 53R may be the same or different. Further, all (or part) of the symbols on the main reels 3L, 3C, 3R may correspond to part (or all) of the symbol images on the sub reels 53L, 53C, 53R.

  In addition, the change display and stop display of the symbol images on the sub reels 53L, 53C, and 53R do not necessarily coincide with the rotation and stop of the main reels 3L, 3C, and 3R. For example, based on the determination result of the internal winning combination etc. Further, there may be provided a case where control for changing the moving direction of the symbol image from the main reels 3L, 3C, 3R, control for changing the moving speed of the symbol image, or the like is performed.

  Further, when the main control circuit 71 and the reel position detection circuit 50 are connected and a reel index is detected by the reel position detection circuit 50, a detection signal is output to the main control circuit 71, and the main control circuit 71 receives this. Thus, the command is transmitted to the sub control circuit 72. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the configuration is such that the detection signal from the reel position detection circuit 50 is output to both the main control circuit 71 and the sub control circuit 72. It is also good. In this case, the gaming machine includes a first output unit that outputs a signal indicating the rotation reference position to the first control unit when the rotation reference position is detected by the rotation reference position detection unit, and the rotation reference position detection unit. And a second output means for outputting a signal indicating that to the second control means when the rotation reference position is detected.

  In addition to the pachislot machine as in the present embodiment, the present invention can be applied to other gaming machines such as slot machines and pachinko machines. Furthermore, the effects described in the present embodiment are merely a list of the most preferable effects resulting from the present invention, and the effects of the present invention are not limited to those described in the present embodiment. .

1 is a perspective view showing an overview of a gaming machine 1. It is a figure which shows the example of a display of the liquid crystal display screen 5a of the liquid crystal display device 5. FIG. It is a figure which shows the symbol arranged on the main reels 3L, 3C, 3R. 2 is a block diagram showing a configuration of an electric circuit of the gaming machine 1. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a sub control circuit 72 of the gaming machine 1. FIG. It is a figure which shows the relationship between the display combination of the gaming machine 1, the combination of symbols, and the payout. It is a figure which shows the probability lottery table of the gaming machine 1. It is a figure which shows the acceleration table of the gaming machine 1. It is a figure which shows the excitation pattern table of the gaming machine 1. 7 is a flowchart of reset interrupt processing by the main CPU performed in the main control circuit 71. 7 is a flowchart showing a gaming state monitoring process performed by a main control circuit 71. 5 is a flowchart showing a probability lottery process performed by a main control circuit 71. 5 is a flowchart showing a reel stop control process performed by a main control circuit 71. 4 is a flowchart showing a symbol update process performed by a main control circuit 71. 7 is a flowchart showing a bonus end check process performed in a main control circuit 71. 7 is an example of a flowchart of periodic interrupt processing every 1.1 msec performed in the main control circuit 71. 3 is a flowchart showing a reel control process performed by a main control circuit 71. 3 is a flowchart showing a rotation start process performed by a main control circuit 71. 4 is a flowchart showing an acceleration control process performed by a main control circuit 71. 4 is a flowchart showing a stop request process performed in a main control circuit 71. 3 is a flowchart showing stop control processing performed in a main control circuit 71. 4 is a flowchart showing a pulse counter update process performed in a main control circuit 71. 4 is a flowchart showing a pulse output process performed by a main control circuit 71. 5 is an example of a flowchart showing a reset interrupt process performed by a sub control circuit 72.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Game machine 3L, 3C, 3R Main reel 5 Liquid crystal display device 6S Start switch 7S Stop switch 30 Microcomputer 31 CPU
32 ROM
33 RAM
53L, 53C, 53R Sub reel 71 Main control circuit 72 Sub control circuit 81 Image control microcomputer 83 Program ROM
84 Work RAM

Claims (2)

A symbol display means having a plurality of reels on which a plurality of symbols are arranged and a display window for displaying a part of the symbols arranged on the reel;
Producing means that is provided separately from the symbol display means, and that produces effects relating to the game,
Start operation detecting means for detecting that a start operation for starting a unit game has been performed;
Stop operation detecting means for detecting that a stop operation for stopping the rotation of the reel has been performed;
First control means for rotating the reel when a start operation is detected by the start operation detecting means, and for stopping and controlling rotation of the reel when a stop operation is detected by the stop operation detecting means;
Second control means for controlling an effect relating to the game performed by the effect means;
Rotation reference position detection means for detecting a rotation reference position each time the reel is rotated once by the first control means,
The first control means includes
When the rotation reference position is detected by the rotation reference position detection means, the transmission reference means transmits a signal indicating that to the second control means,
The second control means includes
A gaming machine comprising receiving means for receiving the signal transmitted by the transmitting means. A symbol display means having a plurality of reels on which a plurality of symbols are arranged and a display window for displaying a part of the symbols arranged on the reel;
Providing means that is provided separately from the symbol display means, and has a display row that displays a plurality of symbols corresponding to the reels, thereby providing an effect relating to the game,
Start operation detecting means for detecting that a start operation for starting a unit game has been performed;
Stop operation detecting means for detecting that a stop operation for stopping the rotation of the reel has been performed;
First control means for rotating the reel when a start operation is detected by the start operation detecting means, and for stopping and controlling rotation of the reel when a stop operation is detected by the stop operation detecting means;
Second control means for controlling display of a plurality of symbols in the display row in conjunction with reel rotation and stop performed by the first control means;
Rotation reference position detection means for detecting a rotation reference position each time the reel is rotated once by the first control means,
The first control means includes
When the rotation reference position is detected by the rotation reference position detection means, the transmission reference means transmits a signal indicating that to the second control means,
The second control means includes
A gaming machine comprising receiving means for receiving the signal transmitted by the transmitting means.

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