JP2006263392A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine for allowing a player to comfortably progress a game. <P>SOLUTION: A display control part 143 uses a plurality of kinds of performance pattern data stored in an image ROM 88 for the display control of a liquid crystal display device 131 in order of performance pattern data 1-10 on condition that a specific game section is started. When a time clocked by a display time timer 141 when the display control is completed is less than a specific time, the display control part 143 controls the display of the liquid crystal display device 131, based on the performance pattern data 10 to be finally used in the display control concerning the prescribed order, during a period till the time clocked by the display time timer 141 becomes the specific time. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2007,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine.

  For example, a slot machine equipped with a stop button, a so-called pachislot machine, has a variable display device configured by arranging a plurality of mechanical rotating reels that display a plurality of symbols in the front display window, or a symbol on the reel on the screen. It has an electrical fluctuation display device for displaying. In response to the player's start operation, the control means drives the variable display device to rotate the reels to display the symbols in a variable manner. After a certain period of time, either automatically or by the player's stop operation, Stop rotation sequentially. At this time, when the symbols of the reels appearing in the display window are in a specific combination (winning symbol), the player is given a profit by paying out game media such as coins and medals.

  Currently, the mainstream models have a plurality of types of winning modes. In particular, when a winning combination of a predetermined combination is established, the game state is better in condition than the normal state for a predetermined period of time, instead of completing one coin payout. As such a combination, a combination that can play a game that gives a relatively large profit to the player a predetermined number of times (referred to as “Big Bonus”, hereinafter abbreviated as “BB”) and a relatively small profit to the player There is a role that can play a predetermined number of games (referred to as “regular bonus”, hereinafter abbreviated as “RB”).

  In addition, in the current mainstream models, a predetermined combination of symbols is arranged along an activated pay line (hereinafter referred to as an “effective line”), and in order to establish a win in which coins, medals, etc. are paid out, A symbol indicating the winning of a winning combination (hereinafter referred to as “internal winning combination”) and a winning combination (hereinafter referred to as “internal winning combination”) through a typical lottery process (hereinafter referred to as “internal lottery”) The player is required to perform a stop operation at a timing at which the combination can be stopped on the active line. In other words, no matter how much the internal winning is made, if the timing of the stop operation of the player is bad, a winning cannot be established. That is, gaming machines that require skill in the timing of the stop operation (the high importance of technical intervention called “to push”) are currently mainstream.

  In such a game machine, the moving image performed by the data reproducing unit according to the variable display count of the identification information determined to be displayed by the continuous number determining unit using the moving images by the playback period determining unit. Since the playback period of the moving image by playback is determined, even if the number of executions of variable display in which the effect display using continuous moving images is performed is different, the effect display by moving images is performed using the same moving image data A gaming machine that can be used has been proposed (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

According to this configuration, various presentation displays can be performed without increasing the data amount of the moving image data, and the storage capacity necessary for storing the moving image data can be suppressed, and the compressed moving image data is used. The control burden for effect display can be reduced.
JP 2004-321624 A

  However, in the gaming machine as described above, when the effect display using continuous moving images is performed, there is a possibility that the effect display and the corresponding sound output may be inconsistent, and the player is comfortable. There is a risk of hindering the game. A possible cause of such inconsistency is that the standby time from reading the image data to developing it into bitmap data differs from the scheduled time depending on the amount of processing executed by the CPU.

  It is an object of the present invention to eliminate a mismatch between an effect display using continuous moving images and a sound output corresponding to the effect display, and to allow the player to proceed with the game more comfortably. It is to provide a gaming machine that can be used.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and in the gaming machine, the display control means is stored in the display control information storage means on the condition that the specific game section is started. Of the plurality of display control information, a plurality of predetermined display control information is used for display control of the separate display means in a predetermined order, and the time measured by the first time measuring means when the display control ends is a specific time. If not, the display control of the separate display means is performed based on the display control information used last in the display control in a predetermined order until the time counted by the first time measuring means reaches a specific time. It is characterized by doing.

  More specifically, the present invention provides the following.

  (1) Symbol display means (for example, reels 3L, 3C, 3R described later) having a plurality of display portions (for example, symbol display areas 21L, 21C, 21R described later) for displaying symbols, and start operations (for example, Start signal output means (for example, described later) for outputting a signal (for example, a game start command signal described later) for instructing the start of a unit game (for example, one game described later) based on a start operation (described later). Start switch 6S, etc.) and a winning combination (for example, an internal winning combination to be described later) based on winning combination determination information (for example, a probability lottery table to be described later) when a signal is output by the start signal output means A winning combination determining means (for example, a means for performing a probability lottery process described later, a main control circuit 71 described later) and a signal output by the start signal output means. In addition, symbol variation means (for example, stepping motors 49L, 49C, 49R, which will be described later, main control circuit 71, which will be described later) for performing symbol variations (for example, a variation display which will be described later) in the plurality of display units, A signal (for example, described later) that is provided corresponding to each display unit and instructs to stop the change of symbols in the corresponding display unit in response to a stop operation (for example, operation of the stop buttons 7L, 7C, and 7R by the player). Stop signal output means (for example, stop switches 7LS, 7CS, 7RS, etc., which will be described later) and a stop signal output means when the signal is output by the stop signal output means. Stop control means (for example, a main control circuit 71 to be described later, FIG. 16 to be described later) for stopping the variation of the symbols on the display unit based on the determination result of the winning combination determining means. Used for the display control of the separate display means and the separate display means (for example, a liquid crystal display device 131 described later) different from the symbol display means. Display control information storage means (for example, an image ROM 88, image storage unit 142, etc., which will be described later) for storing a plurality of display control information (for example, effect pattern data, which will be described later), and a display stored in the display control information storage means. Display control means (for example, a display control unit 143, an image control microcomputer 81, etc., which will be described later) and a specific game section (for example, a BB game state, which will be described later) are started based on the control information. First timing means (for example, a display time timer 141 to be described later) for measuring the time after the game, and the display control means includes the specific game section On the condition that the display control information storage means has started, a plurality of predetermined display control information (for example, effect pattern data 1 to 10 described later) among a plurality of display control information stored in the display control information storage unit is predetermined. Used for display control of the separate display means in order (for example, the order of production patterns 1 to 10 described later), and the time measured by the first time measuring means when the display control is completed is a specific time (for example, , “300” seconds, etc.), the display control last used in the display control in the predetermined order until the time measured by the first time measuring means reaches the specific time. A gaming machine, wherein display control of the separate display means is performed based on information (for example, effect pattern data 10 described later).

  According to the gaming machine described in (1), the display control means includes a plurality of predetermined display control information stored in the display control information storage means on the condition that the specific game section is started. When the display control information is used for display control of the separate display means in a predetermined order, and the time measured by the first time measuring means is less than the specific time when the display control ends, the first time measuring means Until the time counted by the time reaches the specific time, the display control of the separate display means is performed based on the display control information used last in the display control in a predetermined order. Therefore, even when the display control based on the plurality of predetermined display control information is not completed for the specific time, the display control can be continued until the specific time is reached. In addition, more accurate synchronization can be achieved when synchronization by time management is performed between the display on the separate display means controlled by the display control means and the effect by the control target different from this. Moreover, the player can proceed with the game comfortably by accurate synchronization.

  (2) In the gaming machine described in (1), the first time measuring means is configured such that, in the specific game section, the time to be measured reaches the specific time (for example, the determination in step S38 in FIG. 18 is NO). When the time has reached the specific time, the display control means, in the specific game section, when the time measured by the first time measurement means is the specific time The predetermined plurality of display control information is used for display control of the separate display means in the predetermined order, and the time measured by the first time measuring means when the display control is finished is the specific time. If not (for example, the determination in step S41 of FIG. 18 is YES), the time counted by the first time measuring means becomes the specific time (for example, the determination in step S41 of FIG. 18). Gaming machine and displaying controlling said further display means based on the display control information but used until a NO), the last display control in said predetermined order.

  (2) According to the gaming machine described in (2), when the time counted by the first timing means becomes a specific time in the specific game section, a plurality of predetermined display control information is set to a predetermined time each time. When the time measured by the first time measuring means is less than the specific time when the display control is completed and used for the display control of the other display means in order, the time measured by the first time measuring means Until the specific time is reached, display control is performed on another display unit based on display control information used last in display control in a predetermined order. Therefore, more accurate synchronization can be achieved when synchronization by time management between the display on the separate display means controlled by the display control means and the production by the control object different from this is performed at a constant period.

  (3) In the gaming machine described in (1) or (2), sound output means for outputting sound (for example, speakers 9L and 9R described later) and sound used for sound control of the sound output means Sound control information storage means (for example, sound source ROM 97, sound storage unit 145, etc., which will be described later) for storing control information (for example, sound output data which will be described later), and sound control information stored in the sound control information storage means. A sound control means (for example, a sound control unit 144 described later, a sound / lamp control microcomputer 91, and the like) based on the sound output means, and a second time measuring the time from the start of the specific game section. Time measuring means (for example, a sound output time timer 146 to be described later), and when the time to be timed in the specific game section becomes the specific time, the second time measuring means became The sound control means counts the sound output means based on the sound control information when the time counted by the second time measurement means reaches the specific time in the specific game section. A gaming machine characterized by repeated sound control.

  According to the gaming machine described in (3), when the time to be timed is a specific time in the specific game section, the second time measuring means counts from the specific time, and the sound control means In the specific game section, when the time measured by the second time measuring means reaches the specific time, the sound control of the sound output means can be repeatedly performed based on the sound control information. Therefore, more accurate synchronization can be achieved when synchronization by time management is performed between the display on the separate display means controlled by the display control means and the sound output from the sound output means controlled by the sound control means. Moreover, the player can proceed with the game comfortably by accurate synchronization.

  (4) In the gaming machine according to any one of (1) to (3), by controlling display of the separate display unit based on display control information used last in the display control in the predetermined order, An gaming machine, wherein an image or a still image is displayed on the separate display means.

  According to the gaming machine described in (4), when the display control based on a plurality of predetermined display control information is not completed for a specific time, it is finally used for display control in a predetermined order. Based on the display control information, a moving image or a still image can be displayed on another display means until a specific time is reached. Therefore, the display blank period until the specific time is reached can be filled with the display of the moving image or the still image.

  According to the present invention, a game that can be synchronized more accurately when synchronization by time management is performed between the display on the separate display means controlled by the display control means and the effect by the control object different from the display. Machine can be provided. Moreover, the player can proceed with the game comfortably by accurate synchronization.

  FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an appearance of a gaming machine 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The gaming machine 1 is a so-called pachislot machine. The gaming machine 1 is a gaming machine that uses a game medium such as a card that stores information on game value given to or given to a player in addition to coins, medals, game balls, tokens, and the like. However, in the following description, medals are used.

  On the front surface of the front door 2, a panel display portion 2a, a liquid crystal display portion 2b, and a fixed display portion 2c as substantially vertical surfaces are formed (described later). In addition, behind the front door 2, three reels 3L, 3C, 3R on which a plurality of types of symbols are drawn on each outer peripheral surface are provided in a horizontal row so as to be freely rotatable. Each reel 3L, 3C, 3R rotates at a constant speed (for example, 80 rotations / minute).

  A substantially horizontal plane pedestal 4 is formed below the panel display 2a, the liquid crystal display 2b, and the fixed display 2c. On the right side of the pedestal 4, a medal slot 10 for inserting medals is provided. The inserted medals are credited or bet on the game. Further, on the left side of the pedestal unit 4, a 1-BET switch 11, a 2-BET switch 12, and a maximum BET switch 13 for betting credited medals by a pressing operation are provided.

  The 1-BET switch 11 bets one of the credited medals on the game by a single pressing operation, and the 2-BET switch 12 displays the credited medals by a single pressing operation. Two of them are bet on the game, and the maximum BET switch 13 bets the maximum number of medals that can be bet on one game.

  By operating these BET switches 11 to 13, a predetermined display line is activated (described later). The operation of the BET switches 11 to 13 and the operation of inserting a medal into the medal insertion slot 10 (the operation of inserting a medal for playing a game) are hereinafter referred to as “BET operation”. In addition, an operation unit 17 is provided above the BET switches 11 to 13. The operation unit 17 is operated to display information such as a game history on the liquid crystal display device 131.

  A C / P switch 14 is provided on the left side of the front portion of the pedestal portion 4 to switch the credit / payout of medals acquired by the player in the game by a push button operation. By switching the C / P switch 14, medals are paid out from the medal payout opening 15 at the lower front, and the paid out medals are stored in the medal receiving portion 5. Speakers 9 </ b> L and 9 </ b> R are provided on the left and right above the medal receiving portion 5 for outputting sound effects relating to game effects.

  On the right side of the C / P switch 14, the reel is rotated by the player's operation, and the start lever 6 for starting the display of the variation of the symbols in the symbol display areas 21L, 21C, 21R is within a predetermined angle range. It is pivotally attached.

  Three stop buttons 7L, 7C, and 7R for stopping the rotation of the three reels 3L, 3C, and 3R are provided on the right side of the start lever 6 at the center of the front surface of the base portion 4. In the embodiment, one game (unit game) basically starts when the start lever 6 is operated and ends when all the reels 3L, 3C, 3R are stopped.

  In this embodiment, the reel stop operation (stop button operation) performed when all the reels are rotating is the first stop operation, and the stop operation performed after the first stop operation is the second. The stop operation performed after the stop operation and the second stop operation is referred to as a third stop operation. Further, stop switches 7LS, 7CS, and 7RS shown in FIG. 5 to be described later are arranged on the back side of the respective stop buttons 7L, 7C, and 7R. These stop switches detect the operation (stop operation) of the corresponding stop button.

  The panel display unit 2a, the liquid crystal display unit 2b, and the fixed display unit 2c will be described with reference to FIG.

  The panel display unit 2a includes a bonus game information display unit 16, BET lamps 17a to 17c, a payout display unit 18, and a credit display unit 19. The bonus game information display unit 16 is composed of 7 segment LEDs and displays game information in the bonus. The 1-BET lamp 17a, the 2-BET lamp 17b, and the maximum BET lamp 17c are turned on according to the number of medals betted to play one game (hereinafter referred to as “BET number”).

  The 1-BET lamp 17a lights up when the number of BETs is one. The 2-BET lamp 17b is lit when the BET number is two. The maximum BET lamp 17c is lit when the number of BETs is three. The payout display unit 18 and the credit display unit 19 are each composed of a 7-segment LED, and display the number of medals paid out and the number of credited medals when a winning is achieved (when a winning combination is established).

  The liquid crystal display unit 2b includes symbol display areas 21L, 21C, and 21R, window frame display areas 22L, 22C, and 22R, and an effect display area 23. The display content of the liquid crystal display unit 2b changes according to the rotation and stop modes of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R and the operation of a liquid crystal display device 131 (see FIG. 3 described later).

  The symbol display areas 21L, 21C, and 21R are provided corresponding to the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R, and display symbols arranged on the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R and various effects.

  In the symbol display areas 21L, 21C, and 21R, a top line 8b, a center line 8c, and a bottom line 8d are provided as display lines in the horizontal direction, and a cross-up line 8a and a cross-down line 8e are provided in an oblique direction. One, three, and five of these display lines are activated when the player depresses the BET switches 11 to 13 described above or inserts medals into the medal slot 10, respectively. (Hereinafter, the activated display line is referred to as “effective line”). Which display line is activated is indicated by lighting of the BET lamps 17a, 17b, and 17c. Here, the display lines 8a to 8e are related to the success or failure of the combination.

  The symbol display areas 21L, 21C, and 21R are arranged such that at least when the corresponding reels 3L, 3C, and 3R are rotating and when the corresponding stop buttons 7L, 7C, and 7R can be pressed, the player can use the reels 3L, 21C, and 21R. It will be in a transmissive state so that symbols on 3C and 3R can be visually recognized.

  The window frame display areas 22L, 22C, and 22R are provided so as to surround the symbol display areas 21L, 21C, and 21R, and the window frames of the symbol display areas 21L, 21C, and 21R disposed in front of the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R. It represents.

  The effect display area 23 is an area other than the symbol display areas 21L, 21C, 21R and the window frame display areas 22L, 22C, 22R among the areas of the liquid crystal display unit 2b. This effect display area 23 displays an image (for example, a notification lamp) that clearly informs that a bonus can be established, an effect for increasing the interest of the game, and for the player to advance the game advantageously. Displays necessary information.

  The fixed display part 2c is an area in which a predetermined figure, picture or the like is drawn. A single still image or moving image may be displayed by connecting a figure, a picture or the like drawn on the fixed display unit 2c with an image displayed in the effect display area 23.

  FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing a schematic configuration of the liquid crystal display device 131. First, the internal structure of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R will be described. Inside the reels 3L, 3C, 3R, when the rotation of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R is stopped, on the back side of the vertical 3 rows of symbols (9 symbols in total) appearing in the symbol display areas 21L, 21C, 21R. An LED housing circuit board is installed. Each of the LED storage circuit boards has three (that is, nine in total) LED storage portions, and a plurality of LED lamps are provided therein.

  This LED lamp illuminates the rear surface side of the reel sheet mounted along the outer peripheral surface of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R with white light. In more detail, the area | region corresponding to the above-mentioned symbol display area 21L, 21C, 21R is illuminated. This reel sheet is configured to have translucency, and light emitted from the LED lamp is transmitted to the front side.

  Further, the left reel 3L includes a cylindrical frame structure formed by connecting two annular frames having the same shape with a plurality of connecting members separated by a predetermined interval (for example, reel width), and the structure of the frame structure. It is comprised with the transmission member which transmits the driving force of the stepping motor 49L provided in the center part to an annular frame. A reel sheet is mounted along the outer peripheral surface of the left reel 3L.

  The LED storage circuit board disposed inside the reel 3L includes three LED storage portions for storing a plurality of LED lamps. The LED storage circuit board is installed such that the LED storage portion is located on the back side of each of the symbols (total of three symbols) that the player can visually recognize through the symbol display area 21L. Although the center reel 3C and the right reel 3R are not shown, they have the same structure as the left reel 3L shown in the figure, and an LED housing circuit board is provided inside each.

  Next, the transmissive liquid crystal display device 131 will be described. The liquid crystal display device 131 includes a protective glass 132, a display plate 133, a liquid crystal panel 134, a light guide plate 135, a reflective film 136, and a white light source (for example, light of all wavelengths is included at a ratio where a specific color is not conspicuous in human eyes). Fluorescent lamps 137a, 137b, 138a, 138b, lamp holders 139a to 139h, a table carrier package on which an IC for driving a liquid crystal panel is mounted, and a flexible substrate (not shown) connected to a terminal portion of the liquid crystal panel 134 Composed.

  The liquid crystal display device 131 is provided on the front side from the display area of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R as viewed from the front (that is, on the front side of the display surface). Further, the reels 3L, 3C, 3R and the liquid crystal display device 131 are provided separately (for example, at a predetermined interval).

  The protective glass 132 and the display board 133 are comprised with the translucent member. The protective glass 132 is provided for the purpose of protecting the liquid crystal panel 134. In the display board 133, a figure, a picture, etc. are drawn in the area | region corresponding to the above-mentioned panel display part 2a and the fixed display part 2c (refer FIG. 2).

  Here, in FIG. 3, the above-mentioned various display units (bonus game information display unit 16, payout display unit 18, credit display unit 19 and the like) arranged on the back side of the area of the display board 133 corresponding to the panel display unit 2a, and Illustration of an electric circuit for operating the BET lamps 17a to 17c is omitted.

  The liquid crystal panel 134 is formed by sealing liquid crystal in a gap between a transparent substrate such as a glass plate on which a thin film transistor layer is formed and a transparent substrate facing the transparent substrate. The display mode of the liquid crystal panel 134 is set to normally white. The normally white is a configuration in which white display is performed when the liquid crystal is not driven (that is, when no voltage is applied to the liquid crystal panel 134). That is, light goes to the display surface side, and thus the transmitted light is visually recognized from the outside.

  Therefore, by adopting the normally white liquid crystal panel 134, the reels 3L, 3C, 3R pass through the symbol display areas 21L, 21C, 21R even when the liquid crystal cannot be driven. The symbols arranged above can be visually recognized, and the game can be continued. That is, even when a situation in which the liquid crystal cannot be driven occurs, it is possible to play a game centering on the rotation and stop of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R.

  The light guide plate 135 is provided on the back side of the liquid crystal panel 134 in order to introduce light from the fluorescent lamps 137a and 137b into the liquid crystal panel 134 (illuminate the liquid crystal panel 134), and has an acrylic resin thickness of, for example, about 2 cm. It is comprised by translucent members (namely, member which has a light guide function).

  The reflective film 136 is, for example, a white polyester film or an aluminum thin film formed with a silver vapor deposition film, and reflects the light introduced into the light guide plate 135 toward the front side. Thereby, the liquid crystal panel 134 is illuminated. The reflective film 136 includes a reflective region 136A and a non-reflective region (that is, a transmissive region) 136BL, 136BC, and 136BR. The non-reflective regions 136BL, 136BC, and 136BR are formed as a light transmissive portion that is formed of a transparent material and transmits incident light without being reflected.

  Further, the non-reflective areas 136BL, 136BC, and 136BR are provided at positions in front of the symbols to be displayed when the rotation of the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R is stopped. The sizes and positions of the non-reflective areas 136BL, 136BC, and 136BR are formed so as to coincide with the above-described symbol display areas 21L, 21C, and 21R (see FIG. 2). In addition, in the reflective film 136, a region other than the non-reflective regions 136BL, 136BC, and 136BR is set as a reflective region 136A, and the light introduced into the light guide plate 135 by the reflective region 136A is reflected toward the front side.

  The fluorescent lamps 137a and 137b are disposed along the upper and lower ends of the light guide plate 135, and both ends are supported by lamp holders 139a, 139b, 139g, and 139h. The fluorescent lamps 137 a and 137 b generate light to be introduced into the light guide plate 135.

  The fluorescent lamps 138a and 138b are disposed at an upper position and a lower position on the back side of the reflection film 136. The light emitted from the fluorescent lamps 138a and 138b is reflected by the surfaces of the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R, and enters the non-reflective areas 136BL, 136BC, and 136BR. The incident light passes through the non-reflective regions 136BL, 136BC, and 136BR to illuminate the liquid crystal panel 134.

  Further, the functions of the LED lamps and fluorescent lamps 137a, 137b, 138a, 138b will be described.

  First, the function of each lamp when the liquid crystal in the symbol display areas 21L, 21C, and 21R is not driven (that is, when no voltage is applied to the portions of the liquid crystal panel 134 corresponding to the symbol display areas 21L, 21C, and 21R). explain.

  Part of the light emitted from the fluorescent lamps 138a and 138b is reflected by the reel sheet. In addition, a part of the light emitted from the LED lamp provided on the LED storage circuit board is transmitted through the reel sheet. These lights are transmitted through the non-reflective areas 136BL, 136BC, 136BR, the light guide plate 135 and the liquid crystal panel 134 constituting the liquid crystal display device 131, so that the player can visually recognize the symbols arranged on the reel. Can do.

  Further, the light emitted from the fluorescent lamps 137a and 137b and introduced toward the light guide plate 135 passes through the liquid crystal panel 134 and enters the eyes of the player. That is, the fluorescent lamps 137a and 137b illuminate the area of the liquid crystal panel 134 corresponding to the window frame display areas 22L, 22C and 22R and the effect display area 23 described above.

  Next, the function of each lamp when driving the liquid crystal in the symbol display areas 21L, 21C, and 21R (that is, when applying a voltage to the portion of the liquid crystal panel 134 corresponding to the symbol display areas 21L, 21C, and 21R). Will be described.

  Part of the light emitted from the fluorescent lamps 138a and 138b is reflected by the reel sheet. Further, part of the light emitted from the LED lamp passes through the reel sheet. Among the areas of the liquid crystal panel 134, in the area where the liquid crystal is driven, a part of the light is reflected, absorbed or transmitted, so that the player is displayed in the symbol display areas 21L, 21C and 21R. An effect image or the like can be visually recognized.

  FIG. 4 shows a symbol row in which 21 types of symbols represented on the reels 3L, 3C, 3R are arranged. Each symbol is assigned a code number “00” to “20”, and is stored (stored) in a ROM 32 (FIG. 5) described later as a data table. On each of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R, “red 7 (design 91)”, “blue 7 (design 92)”, “BAR (design 93)”, “bell (design 94)”, “watermelon (design 95) ) ”,“ Replay (symbol 96) ”, and“ cherry (symbol 97) ”. Each reel 3L, 3C, 3R is rotationally driven so that the symbol row moves in the direction of the arrow in FIG.

  Here, BB, RB, replay, watermelon small part, bell small part, top and bottom cherry small part, and middle cherry small part are provided in the role of the embodiment. BB is an accessory continuous operation device related to the first type special accessory. RB is a type 1 special agent. The combination (combination data) is basically control information in which a profit given to a player is associated with a symbol combination, stop control of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R, switching (transition) of the game state, It is control information used for giving game value.

  FIG. 5 is based on a main control circuit 71 that controls game processing operations in the gaming machine 1, peripheral devices (actuators) that are electrically connected to the main control circuit 71, and control commands transmitted from the main control circuit 71. A circuit configuration including a liquid crystal display device 131, speakers 9L and 9R, LEDs 101 and a sub-control circuit 72 for controlling the lamps 102 is shown.

  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 that performs a control operation in accordance with a preset program (FIGS. 15 to 17 described later), and a ROM 32 and a RAM 33 that are storage means.

  Connected to the CPU 31 are a clock pulse generator 34 and a frequency divider 35 for generating a reference clock pulse, and a random number generator 36 and a sampling circuit 37 for generating a random number to be sampled. 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.

  In the ROM 32 of the microcomputer 30, the reels are stopped according to the operation of a probability lottery table, a winning combination determination table for stop, and a stop button used for determination of random number sampling performed every time the start lever 6 is operated (start operation). A stop table group for determining the mode is stored. In addition, various control commands (commands) to be transmitted to the sub control circuit 72 are stored. The sub control circuit 72 does not input commands, information, or the like to the main control circuit 71, and communication is performed in one direction from the main control circuit 71 to the sub control circuit 72. Various information is stored in the RAM 33. For example, information such as an internal winning combination, a carryover combination, and a current game state, which will be described later, is stored.

  In the circuit of FIG. 5, the main actuators whose operation is controlled by a control signal from the microcomputer 30 are a BET lamp (1-BET lamp 17a, 2-BET lamp 17b, maximum BET lamp 17c) and bonus game information. Display units such as the display unit 16, the payout display unit 18, the credit display unit 19, and a hopper (including a drive unit for payout) 40 that stores medals and pays out a predetermined number of medals according to a command from the hopper drive circuit 41. And stepping motors 49L, 49C, 49R for rotating the reels 3L, 3C, 3R.

  Further, a motor drive circuit 39 for driving and controlling the stepping motors 49L, 49C and 49R, a hopper drive circuit 41 for driving and controlling the hopper 40, a lamp drive circuit 45 for driving and controlling the BET lamps 17a, 17b and 17c, and a bonus game information display A display unit drive circuit 48 that drives and controls display units such as the unit 16, the payout display unit 18, and the credit display unit 19 is connected to the output unit of the CPU 31. Each of these drive circuits receives a control signal such as a drive command output from the CPU 31 and controls the operation of each actuator.

  The main input signal generating means for generating an input signal necessary for the microcomputer 30 to generate a control command includes a start switch 6S, stop switches 7LS, 7CS, 7RS, 1-BET switch 11, 2-BET. There are a switch 12, a maximum BET switch 13, a C / P switch 14, a medal sensor 10S, a reel position detection circuit 50, and a payout completion signal circuit 51.

  The start switch 6S detects the operation of the start lever 6 and outputs a game start command signal (a signal for instructing the start of the game). The medal sensor 10S detects a medal inserted into the medal insertion slot 10. The stop switches 7LS, 7CS, and 7RS generate a stop command signal (a signal for instructing to stop the change of the symbol) in accordance with the operation of the corresponding stop buttons 7L, 7C, and 7R. The reel position detection circuit 50 receives the pulse signal from the reel rotation sensor and supplies a signal for detecting the position of each reel 3L, 3C, 3R to the CPU 31. The payout completion signal circuit 51 generates a signal for detecting completion of the medal payout when the count value of the medal detection unit 40S (the number of medals paid out from the hopper 40) reaches the designated number data.

  In the circuit of FIG. 5, the random number generator 36 generates a random number belonging to a certain numerical range, and the sampling circuit 37 samples one random number at an appropriate timing after the start lever 6 is operated. By using the random numbers sampled in this manner, an internal winning combination is determined based on, for example, a probability lottery table stored in the ROM 32. The internal winning combination (internal winning combination data) indirectly associates the corresponding symbol combination with the profit given to the player through the stop control mode or display combination corresponding to the internal winning combination. It can be said that.

  After the rotation of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R is started, the number of drive pulses supplied to each of the stepping motors 49L, 49C, 49R is counted, and the counted value is written in a predetermined area of the RAM 33. From the reels 3L, 3C, 3R, reset pulses are obtained every rotation, and these pulses are input to the CPU 31 via the reel position detection circuit 50. The count value of the drive pulse counted in the RAM 33 is cleared to “0” by the reset pulse thus obtained. As a result, the RAM 33 stores the count value corresponding to the rotational position within the range of one rotation for each of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R.

  A symbol table (not shown) is stored in the ROM 32 in order to associate the rotational positions of the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R with the symbols drawn on the outer peripheral surface of the reel. In this symbol table, a code number that is sequentially given for each fixed rotation pitch of each reel 3L, 3C, 3R with reference to the rotation position where the reset pulse is generated, and a corresponding code number are provided. A symbol code indicating the displayed symbol is associated with the symbol.

  Furthermore, a symbol combination table (not shown) is stored in the ROM 32. In this symbol combination table, a symbol combination that establishes a winning combination (winning, etc.), a medal payout number for winning, and a winning determination code (establishing determining code) indicating the winning (establishment) are associated with each other. The above symbol combination table is used when the left reel 3L, the central reel 3C, and the right reel 3R are controlled to stop, and when the winning is confirmed after the all reels 3L, 3C, 3R are stopped (display combination confirmation). Referenced. The display combination (display combination data) is basically a combination (established combination) corresponding to the symbol combination arranged along the effective line. The player is given a profit corresponding to the display combination.

  When the internal winning combination or the stop winning combination is determined by the lottery process (probability lottery process or the like) based on the random number sampling, the CPU 31 stops the stop switch 7LS at the timing when the player operates the stop buttons 7L, 7C, 7R. , 7CS, 7RS, and a signal for controlling the stop of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R to the motor drive circuit 39 based on the operation signal sent from the 7CS, 7RS and the determined stop table.

  If it becomes a stop mode (that is, a winning mode) indicating winning of the winning combination, the CPU 31 supplies a payout command signal to the hopper driving circuit 41 and pays out a predetermined number of medals from the hopper 40. At this time, the medal detection unit 40S counts the number of medals to be paid out from the hopper 40, and when the count value reaches a designated number, a medal payout completion signal is input to the CPU 31. Thereby, CPU31 stops the drive of the hopper 40 via the hopper drive circuit 41, and complete | finishes a medal payout process.

  FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing a configuration of the sub control circuit 72. 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 performs various processes according to the control program stored in the program ROM 83 based on the command transmitted from the main control circuit 71. The image control circuit (gSub) 72a does not include a clock pulse generation circuit, a frequency divider, a random number generator, and a sampling circuit, but is configured to execute random number sampling on the operation program of the image control microcomputer 81. ing.

  The serial port 82 receives a command transmitted from the main control circuit 71. The program ROM 83 stores a control program (FIGS. 18 and 19 described later) executed by the image control microcomputer 81, various tables described later, and the like. 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 stored in the work RAM 84. For example, information such as an after-mentioned effect identifier, the number of remaining effect games, a continuation effect identifier, and a continuation identifier is stored.

  The calendar IC 85 stores date data. An operation unit 17 is connected to the image control microcomputer 81. In the embodiment, the date etc. are set by operating the operation unit 17 by an employee of the game hall. 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 content of the effect determined by the image control microcomputer 81 (such as the notification mode effect described above) and outputs the image to the liquid crystal display device 131.

  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.

  A liquid crystal display device 131, an image ROM 88, and a video RAM 89 are connected to the image control IC 86. 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. 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 131.

  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. 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 LEDs 101 and lamps 102. The sound / lamp control microcomputer 91 transmits an output signal to the LEDs 101 and the lamps 102 in response to a command transmitted from the image control circuit (gSub) 72a at a predetermined timing. As a result, the LEDs 101 and the lamps 102 emit light in a predetermined manner according to the effect.

  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 9L and 9R 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 9L and 9R. 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 employees of the game hall and the like, and the volume output from the speakers 9L and 9R is adjusted. The sound / lamp control microcomputer 91 performs control to adjust the sound output from the speakers 9L and 9R to the input volume based on the input signal transmitted from the volume control unit 103.

  Referring to FIG. 7, function realizing means (operation unit) included in the image control circuit (gSub) 72a and the sound / lamp control circuit (mSub) 72b and necessary for realizing the gaming machine 1 of the embodiment. A functional block diagram including this will be described.

  The image control circuit (gSub) 72a includes the following units.

A display time timer 141 that starts time measurement based on reception of a time measurement start command from a display control unit 143 described later, and generates time information;
An image storage unit 142 for storing later-described effect pattern data;
When a later-described BB establishment command is received from the main control circuit 71, a sound control start command for starting sound control is transmitted to the later-described sound control unit 144, and a time measurement start command is transmitted to the display time timer 141. The display control of the liquid crystal display device 131 is performed based on the time information generated by the display time timer 141 and the later-described effect pattern data stored in the image storage unit 142, and a later-described BB end command is issued from the main control circuit 71. If received, the display control unit 143 performs processing for transmitting a sound control end command to the sound control unit 144 and ending the display control of the liquid crystal display device 131 based on effect pattern data described later.

  The sound / lamp control circuit (mSub) 72b includes the following means.

When a sound control start command for starting sound control is received from the display control unit 143, a time measurement start command is transmitted to the sound output time timer 146 described later, and time information generated by the sound output time timer 146 described later When the sound control end command is received from the display control unit 143 by performing sound output by the speakers 9L and 9R based on the sound output data described later stored in the sound storage unit 145 described later. A sound control unit 144 that performs processing for terminating the sound control of the speakers 9L and 9R based on the sound output data;
A sound storage unit 145 for storing sound output data described later,
A sound output time timer 146 that starts time measurement based on reception of a time measurement start command from the sound control unit 144 and generates time information.

  Communication is directly performed between the main control circuit 71 and the display control unit 143 (transmission / reception of a BB establishment command and a BB end command is performed), but communication is performed directly between the main control circuit 71 and the sound control unit 144. I will not. Therefore, in order to start or end the sound control during the BB gaming state, the display control unit 143 sends a sound control start command or a sound control end command to the sound control unit 144 when receiving the BB establishment command or the BB end command. Send. The sound control unit 144 that has received this command starts or ends sound control during the BB gaming state. The display control unit 143 and the sound control unit 144 perform display control and sound control using dedicated timers (display time timer 141 and sound output timer 146), respectively.

  With reference to the timing chart shown in FIG. 8, the relationship between display control and sound control during the BB gaming state described later will be described.

  Here, the BB establishment command is a command transmitted from the main control circuit 71 to the display control unit 143 in order to start display control in the BB gaming state when BB is established. The BB end command is a command transmitted from the main control circuit 71 to the display control unit 143 in order to end the display control in the BB gaming state when the BB ends. The effect pattern is an aspect realized by a moving image or a still image displayed on the liquid crystal display device 131 for the effect in the BB gaming state based on effect pattern data described later.

  When the BB establishment command is transmitted from the main control circuit 71 to the display control unit 143, the display control unit 143 starts display control of the liquid crystal display device 131 (that display control is being performed during the BB gaming state). The display control flag for BB, which is information for identifying, is turned on), and at the same time, the effect patterns are arranged according to the order of the effect patterns 1 to 10 based on the effect pattern data 1 to 10 shown in (1) of FIG. A display corresponding to is performed. Specifically, for example, the display corresponding to the next effect pattern 2 is started simultaneously with the end of the display corresponding to the effect pattern 1 (the display is switched).

  Also, until the BB end command is received and the display control flag for BB is turned off, basically “300” seconds (an example of a specific time) have elapsed since the display corresponding to the effect pattern is started. Each time, the display corresponding to the effect pattern is repeatedly performed according to the order of the effect patterns 1 to 10. For example, in FIG. 8, when “300” seconds have elapsed, the display corresponding to the production pattern 1 is performed again, and while the display is being performed, a BB end command is received and the BB display control flag is turned off. Shows when it comes to.

  At the same time as the display control flag for BB is turned on, the BB sound control flag, which is information for identifying that sound control is being performed during the BB gaming state, is turned on. Sound output from the speakers 9L and 9R is started based on the sound output data shown. Until a BB end command is received and the sound control flag for BB is turned off, sound output based on sound output data is repeated every time “300” seconds elapse after the sound output is started. In sound control during the BB gaming state, sound output is performed based on only one type of sound output data shown in (2) of FIG. 14 to be described later, so control corresponding to display switching in display control is not performed.

  Here, the sum of all scheduled display times corresponding to the effect pattern data 1 to 10 shown in (1) of FIG. 14 described later is “300” seconds, and the sound output data shown in (2) of FIG. Although it coincides with the sound output time, even if the display corresponding to the effect pattern and the sound output are started simultaneously, the sound output based on the time when the display corresponding to all the effect patterns (effect patterns 1 to 10) ends and the sound output data The time for ending may not match “300” seconds. Actually, a shift occurs such that the time when the display corresponding to all the effect patterns ends (the time when the display corresponding to the effect pattern 10 ends) is earlier than “300” seconds (the display and sound corresponding to the effect pattern). Inconsistencies with the output).

  Generally, when displaying an image, a standby time (preparation time) is required until image data (for example, later-described effect pattern data) is read and developed into bitmap data. The scheduled display time is set including the standby time, but the standby time varies depending on the amount of processing executed by the CPU (for example, the image control circuit (gSub) 72a), so it actually corresponds to the effect pattern. Such a mismatch is considered to occur when the display time to be displayed is earlier than the scheduled display time.

  Due to such inconsistency, the display of the image is interrupted during the period up to “300” seconds after the display corresponding to the last performance pattern is ended, even though the sound output continues, and the player There is a risk of hindering a comfortable game.

  In the present embodiment, when the display corresponding to the last effect pattern (effect pattern 10) is finished, if it has not reached "300" seconds, the effect pattern 10 is reached until it reaches "300" seconds. The display corresponding to is performed again. As a moving image corresponding to the effect pattern 10, a moving image consisting of repetition of a certain motion (for example, a moving image consisting of a repetitive motion where a character runs, a moving image consisting of a repetitive motion where a character with wings flapping) is adopted. I did it.

  By using a moving image consisting of repetition of a certain operation, the motion of the moving image is made continuous when the display corresponding to the effect pattern 10 is performed again (so that the motion of the moving image is not interrupted). Therefore, until the “300” seconds are reached, the player can be made to recognize as if the display corresponding to the effect pattern 10 is continued. By doing so, even if a mismatch between the display corresponding to the effect pattern and the sound output occurs, this can be resolved, and the player can proceed with the game more comfortably.

  FIG. 9 is a timing chart of image display control performed by the image control circuit (gSub) 72a.

  In the embodiment, when displaying an image on the liquid crystal display device 131, the image control microcomputer 81 continuously displays 30 images in one second (s) (that is, the display time of one image is 1). / 30 s). Thereby, a motion is added to the character image or the like, and an animation image is displayed. An animation image (moving image) or a still image corresponding to the effect pattern of the embodiment is configured by a set of images having a display time of 1/30 s.

  In the timing chart of FIG. 9, a timing chart of the frame buffer 1 is shown in the upper stage, and a timing chart of the frame buffer 2 is shown in the lower stage.

  The video RAM 89 is provided with two buffers, a frame buffer 1 and a frame buffer 2, and an image is displayed by transferring data from one of the two buffers to the liquid crystal display device 131. It is configured. In the frame buffer 1 or the frame buffer 2, the lower timing chart shows the timing at which the image control IC 86 performs “drawing” (that is, preparation for display) of the image. The upper timing chart shows the timing at which “display” is performed on the liquid crystal display unit 2 b of the liquid crystal display device 131.

  Referring to the timing chart showing “display” in the upper stage, “display” is performed for 1/30 s at intervals of 1/30 s. Further, referring to the timing chart showing “drawing” in the lower stage, “drawing” is performed between “display” and “display” (within a time period of 1/30 s). An arrow between the frame buffer 1 and the frame buffer 2 indicates bank switching. Bank switching is a process of switching a buffer for transferring data to the liquid crystal display device 131 out of the buffer 1 or the buffer 2 provided in the video RAM 89.

  In the timing chart of FIG. 9, first, image 1 processing is performed in the frame buffer 2. In the process for image 1, first, “drawing” of image 1 corresponding to the determined effect is performed. Here, the “drawing” is from the start of the writing of the image data to the control RAM 87 of the image control IC 86 until the writing of the image data to the buffer (here, the frame buffer 2) provided in the video RAM 89 is completed. Points to the process. Subsequently, the image data of the image 1 that has been “drawn” is transferred to the liquid crystal display device 131, and the image 1 is “displayed” on the liquid crystal display unit 2 b for 1/30 s.

  On the other hand, in the frame buffer 1, while the “display” of the image 1 is being performed in the frame buffer 2 (for 1/30 s), the processing for the image 2 is started and “drawing” of the image 2 is performed. When 1/30 s elapses and the “display” of the image 1 is completed in the frame buffer 2, bank switching is performed. When the bank is switched, the image data of the image 2 that has been “drawn” in the frame buffer 1 is transferred to the liquid crystal display device 131, and the image 2 is “displayed” on the liquid crystal display unit 2 b for 1/30 s. At this time, in the frame buffer 2, the processing for the image 3 is started and “drawing” of the image 3 is performed.

  Similarly, image processing (image 4 processing and image 6 processing in the frame buffer 1, image 5 processing and image 7 processing in the frame buffer 2) is alternately performed in the frame buffer 1 or the frame buffer 2. Become. In this case, “drawing” is performed in the other frame buffer while “display” is performed in one frame buffer (1/30 s). Then, bank switching is performed every 1/30 s between the frame buffer 1 and the frame buffer 2, whereby images are alternately displayed on the liquid crystal display unit 2 b of the liquid crystal display device 131. In this way, the bank is switched between the buffer 1 and the buffer 2 to alternately display images, thereby speeding up the image display and eliminating the flickering of the images.

  With reference to FIG. 10, the moving image displayed in the BB gaming state mentioned later is demonstrated. FIG. 10 shows an example of one of the images constituting the moving image displayed on the liquid crystal display device 131 (image displayed for 1/30 s by the bank switching).

  (1) in FIG. 10 shows an image A. Image A is an example of an image constituting a moving image corresponding to the first effect pattern (effect pattern 1). In the image A, a state in which the spider 201 and the first character 202 face each other is displayed. By continuously displaying such an image including the spider 201 and the first character 202, the effect pattern 1 indicating the movement in which the spider 201 and the first character 202 confront each other is realized.

  (2) in FIG. 10 shows an image B. The image B is an example of an image constituting a moving image corresponding to the effect pattern 5. In the image B, a state in which the second character 203 flies is displayed. By continuously displaying such an image including the second character 203, the effect pattern 5 showing the movement of the second character 203 having wings flapping and flying is realized.

  (3) in FIG. 10 shows an image C. Image C is an example of an image constituting a moving image corresponding to the last effect pattern (effect pattern 10). In the image C, a state in which the second character 203 is wrapped in the flame 204 is displayed. By continuously displaying such an image including the second character 203 and the flame 204, the effect pattern 10 showing how the second character 203 is wrapped in the flickering flame 204 is realized.

  Here, the moving image corresponding to the effect pattern 10 is different from the moving images corresponding to the effect patterns 1 and 5, and is a moving image formed by repeating a certain operation (movement). Specifically, in this moving image, the movement of the flame 204 is continued by repeatedly displaying a certain movement of the flame 204.

  By setting such a moving image as a moving image corresponding to the last effect pattern (effect pattern 10), when the display corresponding to the effect pattern 10 ends and the display corresponding to the effect pattern 10 is performed again. However, since the movement of the flame 204 can be made continuous (so that the movement of the flame 204 is not intermittent), the player is made to recognize as if the display corresponding to the performance pattern 10 is continued. be able to.

  FIG. 11 shows the game condition of each game state, the transfer condition, and the game state of the transfer destination when the transfer condition is satisfied. In each gaming state, the type of winning combination or its winning probability is basically different.

  The gaming state of the embodiment basically includes a general gaming state, a BB gaming state, an RB gaming state, a BB carryover state, and an RB carryover state. The BB carryover state and the RB carryover state are hereinafter referred to as “carryover state”. Further, the role carried over in this carryover state is hereinafter referred to as “carryover role”.

  The general game state is basically a game state in which an expected value of a so-called “play rate (game value given to a player for a unit game value bet on a game)” is smaller than “1”. . Further, it is a gaming state without a carryover role described later, and is the most disadvantageous gaming state for the player as compared with other gaming states.

  The BB gaming state is a gaming state configured by a BB general gaming state and an RB gaming state. Further, the BB gaming state is basically a gaming state constituted by a game in which the “actual accessory continuous actuating device related to the first type special accessory” is operating.

  The RB gaming state is basically a gaming state constituted by a game in which the “first type special character” is operating.

  The BB carryover state is a gaming state in which symbol combinations corresponding to BB are allowed to be arranged along the display line (BB establishment) over one or more games.

  The RB carryover state is a gaming state in which a combination of symbols corresponding to the RB is allowed along one or more games (establishment of RB).

  Here, as described later, when a specific condition is satisfied in the BB general gaming state, the RB gaming state is generated (shifted to the RB gaming state) without displaying the symbol combination corresponding to the RB. In addition, in the BB gaming state (the BB general gaming state and the RB gaming state in the BB gaming state), when the RB is won internally, the RB carryover state (the RB during BB carryover state) over one or more games in the BB gaming state ) And the symbol combination corresponding to RB is displayed, the gaming state is shifted from the RB carryover state (RB carryover state during BB) to the RB gaming state in the BB gaming state.

  Also, when the RB is won internally during the BB gaming state, or when the symbol combination corresponding to the RB is not displayed during the RB carryover state and a specific condition is satisfied, the current gaming state (for example, during the BB It is also possible to shift the gaming state from the (RB gaming state) to the RB gaming state during the BB gaming state. However, when the BB gaming state end condition is satisfied during the RB carryover state (RB during RB carryover state), the game state is shifted from the RB carryover state (RB during BB carryover state) to the general gaming state. Yes. On the other hand, when the RB is internally won in the general gaming state, the RB carryover state is entered and the RB is carried over.

  As shown in FIG. 11, the condition for generating the BB gaming state is establishment of BB. The game state transition condition is satisfied (satisfied) when the acquired number (for example, so-called “pure increase number” or “payout number”) exceeds a predetermined number (for example, 466), and the gaming state shifts to the general gaming state. To do.

  The condition for generating the RB gaming state during the general gaming state is establishment of RB. When one of the conditions that the predetermined number of times (for example, twelve times) the game is finished or the predetermined number of times (for example, eight times) is realized, the transition condition is satisfied, and the gaming state is Transition to the general gaming state.

  The condition for the carryover state is either internal winning for BB, internal winning for RB, or internal winning for RB in the BB gaming state. The transition condition is established when the BB or RB is established, the BB gaming state is ended, or the RB gaming state is started in the BB gaming state, and the gaming state is BB gaming state, RB gaming state, or general Transition to the gaming state.

  The occurrence condition of the BB general gaming state is that the BB is established or that the RB gaming state is ended during the BB gaming state. When the BB gaming state ends or the RB gaming state starts during the BB gaming state, the transition condition is established, and the gaming state transitions to the general gaming state or the RB gaming state.

  The occurrence condition of the RB gaming state during the BB gaming state is that a specific condition is established in the BB gaming state or during the BB gaming state, or the RB gaming state during the BB gaming state or in the BB gaming state. RB is established inside. When one of the conditions that the predetermined number of times (for example, 12 times) the game is completed, the predetermined number of times (for example, 8 times) is realized, or the BB gaming state is ended is satisfied. The transition condition is satisfied, and the gaming state shifts to the general gaming state, the RB gaming state in the BB gaming state, or the BB general gaming state.

  With reference to FIG. 12, a combination of a combination, a symbol, and a payout number will be described.

  (1) in FIG. 12 shows the role, symbol combination, and number of payouts when the BET number is 1, FIG. 12 (2) shows the BET number is 2, and (3) in FIG. Show.

  BB is established by arranging “red 7-red 7-red 7” or “blue 7-blue 7-blue 7” along the active line (the display combination is BB). In addition, it is desirable that “Red 7” and “Blue 7”, which are symbol combinations of BB, are drawn by another flag.

  RB is established by arranging “BAR-BAR-BAR” along the effective line. In the BB general gaming state, RB is also established by arranging “Replay-Bell-Replay” along the active line.

  Replay is established by arranging “Replay-Replay-Replay” along the active line. When the replay is established, the same number of medals as the number of inserted medals are automatically inserted, so that the player can play the next game without consuming the medals. In other words, the replay is a role that allows a game to be performed without establishing a game value when it is established.

  In addition, the combinations of symbols that form the “watermelon small part”, “bell small part”, “upper and lower cherry small part”, and “medium cherry small part” are as illustrated.

  The probability lottery table (BET number: 3) will be described with reference to FIG.

  (1) of FIG. 13 shows the general game state probability lottery table. In the general gaming state, there are cases where BB, RB, replay, watermelon small part, bell small part, top and bottom cherry small part, and medium cherry small part are internally won.

  (2) of FIG. 13 shows a probability lottery table for the BB general gaming state. In the BB general gaming state, there are cases where RB1, RB2, Replay, Watermelon small part, Bell small part, top and bottom cherry small part, and medium cherry small part are internally won.

  Here, when RB1 is won internally (when RB1 is carried over), “BAR-BAR-BAR” is allowed to line up along the active line on condition that the internal winning combination is lost. When RB2 is won internally (when RB2 is carried over), “Replay-Bell-Replay” is allowed to line up along the active line on condition that the internal winning combination is lost.

  FIG. 13 (3) shows an RB gaming state probability lottery table during the general gaming state. In this RB gaming state (RB established in the general gaming state, hereinafter referred to as “general RB gaming state”), a watermelon small part, a bell small part, a top and bottom cherry small part, and a medium cherry small part May win internally.

  (4) of FIG. 13 shows the carry-over state probability lottery table. In the carry-over state, there may be internal winnings for replays, watermelon small roles, bell small roles, top and bottom cherry small roles, and medium cherry small roles.

  (5) of FIG. 13 shows the probability lottery table for the RB gaming state during the BB gaming state. In this RB gaming state (RB established in the BB gaming state, hereinafter referred to as “RB gaming state in the BB”), a watermelon small part, a bell small part, a top and bottom cherry small part, and a medium cherry small part May win internally.

  The internal winning combination (internal winning combination data) indirectly associates the corresponding symbol combination with the profit given to the player through the stop control mode or display combination corresponding to the internal winning combination. It can be said that.

  With reference to FIG. 14, data used for display control and sound control in the BB general gaming state will be described.

  (1) of FIG. 14 shows production pattern data 1-10 and the scheduled display time corresponding to it. The effect pattern data is data used by the display control unit 143 in the display control during the BB general gaming state. The scheduled display time is the time required for display control based on the production pattern data. The total display scheduled time corresponding to the production pattern data 1 to 10 is totaled to be “300” seconds, but all the displays corresponding to the production patterns 1 to 10 are performed based on the production pattern data 1 to 10. The time may actually be less than “300” seconds.

  (2) of FIG. 14 shows sound output data and its sound output time. The sound output data is data used by the sound control unit 144 in sound control during the BB general gaming state. The sound output time (“300” seconds) coincides with the actual time for sound output based on the sound output data.

  The control operation of the main control circuit 71 will be described with reference to the main flowcharts shown in FIGS.

  First, 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. Subsequently, the predetermined storage contents (information of a predetermined storage area (for example, an area for storing the internal winning combination)) in the RAM 33 at the end of the game are deleted (step S2), and the process proceeds to step S3. Specifically, the data in the writable area of the RAM 33 used in the previous game is erased, the parameters necessary for the next game are written in the write area of the RAM 33, the start address of the sequence program of the next game is designated, I do.

  In step S3, medal insertion / start check processing is performed, and the process proceeds to step S4. In this processing, processing such as updating the number of BETs is performed based on inputs from the start switch 6S, the medal sensor 10S, or the BET switches 11-13. In step S4, a random number for lottery is extracted, and the process proceeds to step S5. The random numbers extracted in this process are used in the probability lottery process described later.

  In step S5, a game state monitoring process is performed, and the process proceeds to step S6. In step S6, a probability lottery process for determining an internal winning combination is performed based on the probability lottery table, and the process proceeds to step S7. In step S7, stop table selection processing for selecting a stop table based on an internal winning combination is performed, and the process proceeds to step S8.

  In step S8, a start command is set, and the process proceeds to step S9. The start command includes information such as a gaming state and an internal winning combination, and is transmitted to the sub-control circuit 72. In step S9, it is determined whether or not “4.1 seconds” have elapsed since the previous game started. When this determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S11, and when NO, the process proceeds to step S10.

  In step S10, a game start waiting time digest process (wait process) is performed, and the process proceeds to step S11. Specifically, a process of invalidating an input based on an operation for starting a game by a player until a predetermined time (for example, a predetermined second (eg, “4.1 seconds”)) has elapsed since the start of the previous game. I do. In step S11, a game monitoring timer is set, and the process proceeds to step S12. This game monitoring timer includes an automatic stop timer for automatically stopping the reels 3L, 3C, 3R regardless of the stop operation of the player's stop buttons 7L, 7C, 7R.

  In step S12, the start of rotation of all reels is requested, and the process proceeds to step S13. In step S13, a reel stop permission command is set, and the process proceeds to step S14 in FIG.

  In step S14, it is determined whether or not the stop switch is “ON”, that is, whether any one of the stop buttons 7L, 7C, and 7R has been operated. When this determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S16, and when NO, the process proceeds to step S15. In step S15, it is determined whether or not the value of the automatic stop timer is “0”. When this determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S16, and when NO, the process proceeds to step S14.

  In step S16, the number of sliding frames is determined, and the process proceeds to step S17. In step S17, the process waits for the reels 3L, 3C, 3R corresponding to the stopped stop buttons 7L, 7C, 7R to rotate by the number of sliding frames determined in step S16, and then proceeds to step S18.

  In step S18, the reel rotation is requested to stop, and the process proceeds to step S19. In step S19, a reel stop command is set, and the process proceeds to step S20. In step S20, it is determined whether or not all reels have stopped. When this determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S21 in FIG. 17, and when NO, the process proceeds to step S14.

  In step S21 of FIG. 17, a display combination search process is performed, and the process proceeds to step S22. In the display combination search process, a flag for identifying a display combination (a winning combination) is set based on a symbol stop mode of the symbol display areas 22L, 22C, and 22R. In step S22, it is determined whether or not there is an illegal hit, that is, whether or not there is a mismatch between the internal winning combination and the display combination. When this determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S23, and when NO, the process proceeds to step S24. In step S23, an illegal error is displayed. In this case, the game is canceled.

  In step S24, a display combination command including display combination information is set, and the process proceeds to step S25. In step S25, it is determined whether or not the payout number corresponding to the display combination is zero. When this determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S27, and when NO, the process proceeds to step S26. In step S26, medals are stored (credit) or paid out, and the process proceeds to step S27. In step S27, a payout end command is set, and the process proceeds to step S28.

  In step S28, it is determined whether or not the RB operating flag or the BB operating flag is “ON”. When this determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S30, and when “NO”, the process proceeds to step S29. The RB operating flag is information for identifying whether or not the RB gaming state is set, and is “ON” when in the RB gaming state, and “OFF” when not in the RB gaming state. The BB operating flag is information for identifying whether or not the player is in the BB gaming state, and is “ON” when in the BB gaming state, and “OFF” when not in the BB gaming state. Therefore, in the RB gaming state in BB, both flags are “ON”. In the general RB gaming state, the RB operating flag is “ON” and the BB operating flag is “OFF”.

  In step S29, RB / BB operation check processing is performed, and the process proceeds to step S2 in FIG. In the RB and BB operation check processing, processing for updating the RB operation flag and the BB operation flag to ON may be performed. When the BB operation flag is updated to ON in the RB and BB operation check processing, a BB establishment command is transmitted from the main control circuit 71 to the display control unit 143.

  In step S30, RB and BB end check processing is performed, and the process proceeds to step S2 in FIG. In the RB and BB end check processing, processing for updating the RB operation flag and the BB operation flag to off may be performed. Further, when the BB operation flag is updated to OFF in the RB and BB end check processing, a BB end command is transmitted from the main control circuit 71 to the display control unit 143.

  The BB display control start process performed by the display control unit 143 will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, the display control unit 143 determines whether or not a BB start command is received from the main control circuit 71 (step S31). When this determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S32, and when this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S31. In step S32, a sound control start command is transmitted, and the process proceeds to step S33. In step S33, the display time timer is started and the process proceeds to step S34.

  In step S34, the first effect pattern data is set, and the process proceeds to step S35. By setting the first effect pattern data (effect pattern data 1 of (1) in FIG. 14), display based on the effect pattern data 1 is started on the liquid crystal display device 131. In step S35, it is determined whether or not the display of the image based on the effect pattern data is completed. When this determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S36, and when it is NO, the process proceeds to step S35. In step S36, it is determined whether there is production pattern data to be set next. If this determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S37. When the display corresponding to the last effect pattern (effect pattern 10) is completed, the determination in step S36 is NO, and the process proceeds to step S38.

  In step S37, the next effect pattern data is set, and the process proceeds to step S35. In this step S37, for example, after the display based on the production pattern data 1 is finished, the production pattern data 2 is set as the next production pattern data. In step S38, it is determined whether or not the elapsed time from the start of counting by the display time timer is less than “5” minutes. When this determination is YES, in order to perform the display corresponding to the last effect pattern (effect pattern 10) again, the process proceeds to step S39, and when NO ("5" minutes ("300" seconds) have elapsed. ) Shifts to step S32 in order to display again (repeated display) from the display corresponding to the first effect pattern (effect pattern 1).

  In step S39, the last effect pattern data is set again, and the process proceeds to step S40. In step S40, it is determined whether or not the display of the image based on the last effect pattern data has been completed. When this determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S39, and when it is NO, the process proceeds to step S41. In step S41, it is determined whether or not the elapsed time from the start of time measurement by the display time timer is less than “5” minutes. If this determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S40, and if NO (when "300" seconds ("5" minutes) have elapsed), the display corresponding to the first effect pattern (effect pattern 1) is displayed again. In order to carry out, the process proceeds to step S32.

  With reference to FIG. 19, the BB display control end process performed by the display control unit 143 will be described.

  First, the display control unit 143 determines whether or not a BB end command has been received from the main control circuit 71 (step S51). When this determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S52, and when this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S51. In step S52, a sound control end command is transmitted, and the process proceeds to step S53. In step S53, an image display end process based on the effect pattern data is performed, and the process proceeds to step S51.

  The BB sound output control process performed by the sound control unit 144 will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, the sound control unit 144 determines whether or not a sound control start command has been received (step S61). When this determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S62, and when NO, the process proceeds to step S61. In step S62, the sound output time timer is started and the process proceeds to step S63. In step S63, sound output data is set, and the process proceeds to step S64. When this sound output data is set, sound output from the speakers 9L and 9R is started. In step S64, it is determined whether or not the elapsed time from the start of timing of the sound output time timer is less than "5" minutes. When this determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S65, and when NO, the process proceeds to step S62.

  In step S65, it is determined whether a sound control end command has been received. When this determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S66, and when it is NO, the process proceeds to step S64. In step S66, a sound output end process based on the sound output data is performed, and the process proceeds to step S61.

  As mentioned above, although the Example was described, this invention is not limited to this.

  In the embodiment, as a moving image corresponding to the last effect pattern (effect pattern 10), a moving image consisting of repetition of a certain operation is adopted. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, when a still image is displayed in the display corresponding to the last effect pattern, the display corresponding to the effect pattern 10 is finished and the display corresponding to the effect pattern 10 is performed again before reaching “300” seconds. Even so, until the “300” seconds are reached, the player can be made to recognize as if the display corresponding to the effect pattern 10 is continued.

  Further, the moving image corresponding to the last effect pattern (effect pattern 10) is displayed to the player as if the display corresponding to the effect pattern 10 is continued when the display corresponding to the effect pattern 10 is performed again. Any other moving image may be used as long as it can be recognized. For example, as a moving image corresponding to the last effect pattern, a moving image in which stars in the night sky straddle or a moving image in which cherry blossom petals are scattered may be employed.

  Further, although the scheduled display times corresponding to the production pattern data 1 to 10 in (1) of FIG. 14 are different from each other, the display scheduled time is not limited to this, and these scheduled display times may be all equal. For example, all the scheduled display times corresponding to each effect pattern data may be “10” seconds. Even in this case, it is only necessary that the total display scheduled time corresponding to each effect pattern data is equal to the sound output time corresponding to the sound output data.

  In the embodiment, the display control unit 143 and the sound control unit 144 do not communicate with each other and independently control during the period from the start to the end of the display control and the sound control in the BB gaming state. However, it is not limited to this. For example, when “300” seconds have elapsed during the BB gaming state and display and sound output corresponding to the effect pattern are performed again, the display time is displayed by performing communication between the display control unit 143 and the sound control unit 144. The timing by the timer 141 and the sound output timer 146 may be restarted at the same time. In this way, the timing of restarting the timing performed in the display time timer 141 and the sound output timer 146 each time “300” seconds elapse can be more accurately matched, and the effect pattern can be obtained in the BB gaming state. In some cases, the display and sound output corresponding to can be more accurately synchronized.

  Furthermore, the present invention can be applied to other gaming machines such as pachinko gaming machines and patty lots in addition to the gaming machine 1 as in the present embodiment. Furthermore, the game can be executed by applying the present invention even in a game program in which the above-described operation of the gaming machine 1 is simulated for a home game machine. In that case, a CD-ROM, FD (flexible disk), or any other recording medium can be used as a recording medium for recording the game program.

The perspective view which shows the external appearance of the gaming machine 1. The figure which shows the panel display part of a liquid crystal display device, a liquid crystal display part, and a fixed display part. The perspective view which shows schematic structure of a liquid crystal display device. The figure which shows the example of the pattern arranged on the reel. The block diagram which shows the structure of an electric circuit. The block diagram which shows the structure of the sub-control circuit of an Example. The functional block diagram which shows the function of the sub control circuit of an Example. The figure which shows the timing chart regarding display control and sound control. The figure which shows the timing chart regarding an image control process. The figure which shows the image displayed in a BB game state. The figure which shows the generation | occurrence | production condition of each game state, a transfer condition, and a transfer destination game state. The figure which shows the relationship between a combination, a symbol combination, and a payout number. The figure which shows a probability lottery table. Data used for display control and sound control will be described. The main flowchart of a main control circuit. The flowchart following FIG. The flowchart following FIG. The flowchart which shows the display control start process for BB. The flowchart which shows the display control end process for BB. The flowchart which shows the sound output control process for BB.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Game machine 2 Front door 2b Liquid crystal display part 3L, 3C, 3R Reel 6 Start lever 7L, 7C, 7R Stop button 21L, 21C, 21R Symbol display area 22L, 22C, 22R Window frame display area 23 Effect display area 30 Microcomputer 31 CPU
32 ROM
33 RAM
71 Main control circuit 72 Sub control circuit 83 Program ROM
84 Work RAM
131 Liquid crystal display device

Claims (4)

A symbol display means having a plurality of display units for displaying symbols;
Start signal output means for outputting a signal for instructing the start of the unit game based on the start operation;
A winning combination determining means for determining a winning combination based on winning combination determination information when a signal is output by the start signal output means;
When the signal is output by the start signal output unit, the symbol variation unit that varies the symbol in the plurality of display units;
A stop signal output means that is provided corresponding to each of the plurality of display units, and outputs a signal instructing to stop the variation of symbols in the corresponding display unit in response to a stop operation;
Stop control means for stopping the change of the symbol in the display unit corresponding to the stop signal output means based on the determination result of the winning combination determining means when a signal is output by the stop signal output means,
Separate display means different from the symbol display means;
Display control information storage means for storing a plurality of display control information used for display control of the separate display means;
Display control means for controlling display of the separate display means based on display control information stored in the display control information storage means;
A first timing means for timing the time since the start of the specific game section;
With
The display control means outputs a plurality of predetermined display control information in a predetermined order among the plurality of display control information stored in the display control information storage means on condition that the specific game section is started. Used for display control of the separate display means, and when the time measured by the first time measuring means is less than a specific time when the display control ends, the time measured by the first time measuring means Until the specified time elapses, display control of the separate display means is performed based on display control information last used in the display control in the predetermined order. The gaming machine according to claim 1,
In the specific game section, when the time to be measured is the specific time, the first time measuring means measures the time from when the specific time is reached,
In the specific game section, when the time counted by the first time measuring means reaches the specific time, the display control means sets the plurality of predetermined display control information in the predetermined order in the predetermined order. Used for display control of the display means, when the time measured by the first time measuring means is less than the specific time when the display control ends, the time measured by the first time measuring means Until the specified time is reached, display control of the separate display means is performed based on display control information used last in display control in the predetermined order. In the gaming machine according to claim 1 or 2,
Sound output means for outputting sound;
Sound control information storage means for storing sound control information used for sound control of the sound output means;
Sound control means for performing sound control of the sound output means based on sound control information stored in the sound control information storage means;
A second timing means for timing the time since the start of the specific game section;
With
In the specific game section, when the time to be timed is the specific time, the second time measuring means counts the time from the specific time,
The sound control means repeatedly performs sound control of the sound output means based on the sound control information when the time counted by the second time measuring means reaches the specific time in the specific game section. A gaming machine characterized by that. 4. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein a moving image or a still image is displayed by performing display control on the separate display unit based on display control information used last in the display control in the predetermined order. A gaming machine displayed on the separate display means.

Images