JP2006305233A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To prevent any possibilities of giving disadvantage to a game parlor side and of arousing a player's speculative spirit while improving the taste of a game. <P>SOLUTION: This game machine 1 is provided with a main control circuit 71, when "bell-replay-replay" is displayed as a prescribed symbol combination in a regular game state, executes the operation of an SB (Single Bonus) game state relatively disadvantageous for a player compared with the regular game state and, when executing a game a single time in the SB state, completes the operation of the disadvantageous SB game state. <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 combination of predetermined symbols is arranged along an activated formation line (hereinafter referred to as an “effective line”), and in order to achieve a winning in which coins, medals, etc. are paid out, A combination of symbols indicating winning of the winning combination (hereinafter referred to as “internal winning combination”) and winning 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 player can stop at 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 gaming machine, when it is detected that the combination of symbols is a combination of a special bonus prize different from the bonus prize, the game within a predetermined number of times is performed in a state where the combination of the bonus prize is more likely to occur than usual. There has been proposed a gaming machine provided with a control means for giving a bonus mode of a special bonus game that can be performed continuously and a bonus game is possible for a certain number of bonus winnings during the game period ( For example, see Patent Document 1). According to this gaming machine, the special bonus game is started up to, for example, 30 times when a combination of symbols different from the bonus winning, such as “7-7-7”, is generated. When a bonus winning is obtained during the period, for example, a bonus game can be performed up to three times. During the special bonus game period, the probability of occurrence of a bonus prize is set higher than usual so that the player can enjoy the best of the bonus game.
JP-A-8-98912

  However, in the gaming machines as described above, the so-called “departure rate” is set so as not to exceed a predetermined value in consideration of the possibility of giving a disadvantage to the game hall side and fearing the player's gambling. When a lot of types of bonus games are simply provided for the purpose of increasing the interest of the game, there is a possibility that the “development rate” may exceed the predetermined value.

  An object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine that increases the interest of the game but does not cause a disadvantage to the game arcade and does not fear the player's joy.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above-described problems. In the gaming machine, when the symbol determining unit determines that a predetermined symbol combination is displayed by the symbol displaying unit in a specific state, The disadvantageous operation means for performing the disadvantageous state operation which is relatively disadvantageous for the player as compared to the state, and the disadvantage of terminating the disadvantageous state operation when a predetermined number of unit games are performed in the disadvantageous state. And an operation end means.

  More specifically, the present invention provides the following.

  (1) Symbol display means for displaying a plurality of symbols (for example, reels 3L, 3C, 3R, which will be described later, symbol display areas 21L, 21C, 21R, which will be described later) and start operations (for example, a start operation which will be described later) Based on a start signal output means (for example, a start switch 6S described later) for outputting a signal for instructing the start of a unit game (for example, one game described later) based on the signal output by the start signal output means A winning combination determining means (for example, means for performing an internal lottery process described later, a main control circuit 71 described later, etc.) for determining a winning combination (for example, a winning combination described later, an internal winning combination described later, a carryover combination described later), etc. ) And symbol variation means (for example, variation display, etc.) for performing symbol variation (for example, variation display) displayed by the symbol display device based on the signal output from the start signal output device. Stepping motors 49L, 49C, 49R, which will be described later, and a main control circuit 71, which will be described later), and a signal for commanding the stop of symbol variation performed by the symbol variation means based on a stop operation (for example, an operation by a player). A stop signal output means (for example, a stop switch 7LS, 7CS, 7RS, etc., which will be described later) for outputting (for example, a stop command signal, which will be described later), a signal output by the stop signal output means, and the winning combination determining means. Based on the determined winning combination, stop control means (for example, means for performing slip frame number determination processing described later, step S94 in FIG. 18 described later) that performs stop control of symbol variation performed by the symbol variation means. A means for performing step S97, a main control circuit 71 to be described later), and a symbol discriminator for discriminating a symbol combination displayed by the symbol display unit. A stage (for example, a means for discriminating a display combination to be described later, a means for performing step S14 in FIG. 13 to be described later, a main control circuit 71 to be described later), and a predetermined symbol combination (for example, “bell-bell- When the symbol discriminating means discriminates that the “bell” or the like is displayed by the symbol display means, the game value granting means (eg, step of FIG. 13 described later) for giving the player a game value (eg, medal). A means for performing S16, a main control circuit 71 described later) and a predetermined symbol combination (for example, “bell-replay-replay” described later) in a specific state (for example, a general gaming state described later). If it is determined by the symbol determination means that it is displayed by the display means, it is a disadvantageous state (for example, SB game described later) that is relatively disadvantageous for the player as compared with the specific state. Disadvantageous state operating means (for example, means for performing step S125 in FIG. 20 described later, means for switching a gaming state described later, main control circuit 71 described later), etc., and predetermined in the disadvantageous state When the unit game of the number of times is performed, disadvantageous operation ending means for ending the operation of the disadvantageous state (for example, means for performing step S102 in FIG. 19 described later, means for switching a gaming state described later, main control circuit 71 described later, etc. And a gaming machine comprising:

  According to the gaming machine described in (1), when the disadvantageous state operating means determines that the predetermined symbol combination is displayed by the symbol display means in a specific state, the symbol discrimination means compares with the specific state, A disadvantageous operation is performed which is relatively unfavorable for the player, and the disadvantageous operation ending means terminates the operation of the disadvantageous state when a predetermined number of unit games are performed in the disadvantageous state. Therefore, it is possible to provide a gaming machine that increases the interest of the game by operating and ending the disadvantageous state, but does not cause a disadvantage to the game hall side and does not fear the player's happiness. Also, since the disadvantageous state ends when a predetermined number of unit games are played, the occurrence of a situation in which the game is immediately stopped due to the operational of the disadvantageous state is prevented, and the operating rate of the gaming machine is increased be able to. In addition, for example, a gaming machine with a disadvantageous state can suppress the payout of medals to a player compared to a gaming machine without a disadvantageous state, so that the profit of the game hall that is a source of dividends to the player Can be secured. Further, the game is not monotonous, and the player can advance the game with a sense of tension.

  (2) In the gaming machine described in (1), the winning combination determining unit determines a winning combination based on winning combination determining information (for example, an internal lottery table corresponding to a gaming state described later), and the disadvantageous state The actuating means switches the winning combination determination information used by the winning combination determining means for determining the winning combination (for example, means for performing step S71 in FIG. 17 described later determines an internal lottery table corresponding to the gaming state). The gaming machine is characterized in that it operates in the disadvantageous state.

  (2) According to the gaming machine described above, the winning combination determining means determines the winning combination based on the winning combination determining information, and the disadvantageous state operating means is the winning combination determining means used by the winning combination determining means for determining the winning combination. It operates in a disadvantageous state by switching information. Therefore, the diversity of the game can be increased and the interest of the game can be improved. Further, the winning combination determined based on the winning combination determining information switched by the disadvantageous state operating means is used for stop control of symbol variation. Therefore, the player can determine whether or not the symbol is in an unfavorable state from the stop mode of the symbol, and can enjoy the game while paying attention to the stop mode.

  (3) In the gaming machine according to (2), the winning corresponding to the disadvantage state with respect to a unit game value (for example, one medal bet on one game) used to play a game in the disadvantage state An expected value of a game value (for example, an expected value “0.2680” in an SB gaming state to be described later) given to a player based on a combination determination information (for example, an internal lottery table for an SB gaming state to be described later) Granted to a player based on the winning combination determination information corresponding to the specific state (for example, an internal lottery table for a general gaming state described later) with respect to a unit game value used for playing a game in a specific state A gaming machine characterized by being relatively smaller than an expected value of a gaming value (for example, an expected value “0.3104” in a general gaming state described later).

  (3) According to the gaming machine described in the above, the expected value of the game value given to the player based on the winning combination determination information corresponding to the disadvantaged state with respect to the unit game value used for playing the game in the disadvantaged state Is relatively smaller than the expected value of the game value given to the player based on the winning combination determination information corresponding to the specific state with respect to the unit game value used to play the game in the specific state . Therefore, since the gaming value given to the player can be suppressed by making the expected value in the disadvantageous state smaller than the expected value in the specific state, a gaming machine that does not cause a disadvantage to the game hall side is provided. can do.

  (4) In the gaming machine according to (2) or (3), the player is determined based on the winning combination determination information corresponding to the disadvantageous state with respect to the unit game value used for playing the game in the disadvantageous state. A gaming machine characterized in that an expected value of gaming value to be given is smaller than 1.

  (4) According to the gaming machine described in (4), the expected value of the game value to be given to the player based on the winning combination determination information corresponding to the disadvantaged state with respect to the unit game value used to play the game in the disadvantaged state Is less than 1. Therefore, it contributes to the reduction of the ratio of game value (for example, the ratio of bonuses) given to the player after the disadvantageous state with respect to the game value given to the player in the entire game is activated and ended. it can.

  (5) The gaming machine according to any one of (1) to (4), wherein the predetermined number of unit games is one unit game.

  According to the gaming machine described in (5), the predetermined number of unit games is one unit game. Therefore, since the disadvantageous state ends when the game is performed once, it is possible to prevent the occurrence of a situation in which the game is immediately stopped due to the operational of the disadvantageous state, and to increase the operating rate of the gaming machine.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a gaming machine that increases the interest of the game by operating and ending the disadvantageous state, but does not cause a disadvantage to the game hall side and does not fear the player's joy. Can do.

  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 are formed as substantially vertical surfaces. 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 display line described later is validated. 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 stop. The stop operation performed after the 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 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. These five display lines are all activated by the player pressing the BET switches 11 to 13 or inserting medals into the medal insertion slot 10 (hereinafter referred to as the activated display). Line is described as “active line”). Whether or not the display line has been validated is indicated by lighting of the BET lamps 17a, 17b and 17c. The display lines 8a to 8e are related to the success or failure of the winning.

  Here, in each of the symbol display areas 21L, 21C, and 21R, three symbol stop positions (upper, middle, and lower) are provided in the vertical direction (vertical direction). When the symbol variation display (moving display) in each symbol display area 21L, 21C, 21R is stopped, the symbol is stopped and displayed at each of the symbol stop positions provided in each symbol display area 21L, 21C, 21R. . Each display line connects a symbol stop position in each symbol display area 21L, 21C, 21R.

  The symbol display areas 21L, 21C, and 21R are displayed at least when the corresponding reels 3L, 3C, and 3R are rotating and when the corresponding stop buttons 7L, 7C, and 7R are operable to be pressed. , 3R becomes transparent so that the symbols on 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. 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. More specifically, the areas corresponding to the symbol display areas 21L, 21C, and 21R are 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. On the display board 133, a figure, a picture, etc. are drawn in the area | region corresponding to the panel display part 2a and the fixed display part 2c (refer FIG. 2).

  Here, in FIG. 3, various display units (bonus game information display unit 16, payout display unit 18, credit display unit 19, etc.) and BET lamps arranged on the back side of the area of the display board 133 corresponding to the panel display unit 2 a. Illustration of an electric circuit for operating 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, 136BR are formed so as to coincide with the symbol display areas 21L, 21C, 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 housing circuit board passes through the reel sheet. Since 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, the player can visually recognize the symbols arranged on the reel. .

  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 areas of the liquid crystal panel 134 corresponding to the window frame display areas 22L, 22C, and 22R and the effect display area 23.

  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)”, “blank (design 92)”, “bell (design 93)”, “watermelon (design 94)”, “BAR (design 95) A symbol row composed of symbols "", "Replay (symbol 96)", and "Cherry (symbol 97)" is shown. Each reel 3L, 3C, 3R is rotationally driven so that the symbol row moves in the direction of the arrow in FIG.

  “Blank” is basically a symbol that is not directly related to the formation of a role. That is, even when “blanks” are displayed along any one of the active lines, the player is not provided with benefits such as paying out medals, automatic insertion of medals, and the transition of the gaming state described later. .

  Here, BB, RB, SB, cherry, bell, watermelon, and replay are provided in the role of the embodiment. BB is an accessory continuous operation device related to the first type special accessory. In addition, BB, RB, and SB are collectively referred to as “bonus” hereinafter.

  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 used for giving game value.

  In addition, the gaming state of the embodiment basically includes a general gaming state, an RB gaming state, and an SB gaming state. The gaming state can be basically distinguished by the type of the internal lottery table used for determining the internal winning combination. Specifically, the gaming state can be distinguished based on the types of roles that may be won internally and the probability of winning internally.

  The general gaming state includes a carryover section having a carryover combination and a non-carryover section having no carryover combination. In the carryover section, the bonus is not internally won, and in the non-carryover section, the bonus may be internally won. Therefore, the carryover section and the non-carry-over section are basically different gaming states. The carryover combination is a combination that allows the corresponding symbol combinations to be arranged along the active line over one or a plurality of games (permitted according to the internal winning combination).

  The general gaming state is a gaming state in which an expected value of a so-called “play rate” (a gaming value given to a player with respect to a unit gaming value bet on a game) is smaller than one. As will be described later, the expected value when the inserted number (BET number) is 3 in the general gaming state of the embodiment is 0.0007.

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

  The RB gaming state can be identified by turning on or off the RB operating flag. The RB operating flag is information for identifying whether or not the gaming state is the RB gaming state. The condition that the RB operating flag is updated to ON is that RB is satisfied or that a BB operating flag described later is ON.

  The condition for updating the RB operating flag to be off is that the possible number of games is 0, the possible number of winnings is 0, or that the BB operating flag is updated to off. The number of possible games is the number of unit games that can be played in the RB gaming state. The number of possible winnings is the number of times that a prize can be won in the RB gaming state.

  The BB in-operation flag is information for identifying whether or not the BB operating flag is in an advantageous state generated by establishment of BB. The condition for updating the BB operating flag to ON is that BB is satisfied. The condition for updating the BB operating flag to OFF is that the number of medals paid out exceeds the payable number. The payout possible number is the number of medals that can be paid out in a game (game) from when the BB operating flag is updated to on until the BB operating flag is updated to off.

  Here, the relationship between the BB operating flag and the RB operating flag from when the BB operating flag is updated to on until it is updated to off will be described. When BB is established, the BB operating flag is updated to ON. When this BB operating flag is updated to ON, the RB operating flag is updated to ON. When the possible number of games is 0 or the possible number of winnings is 0, the RB operating flag is updated to OFF. If the BB operating flag is ON, the RB operating flag is updated to ON again.

  When the condition that the BB operating flag is updated to OFF is satisfied, the BB operating flag is updated to OFF. However, when the BB operating flag is updated to OFF, the RB operating flag is OFF. Updated to Therefore, when the BB operating flag is on, the RB operating flag is updated to on. That is, after BB is established, the RB gaming state is maintained until the BB operating flag is updated to OFF.

  The SB gaming state is generated when the SB is established, and is ended when a predetermined number of games (for example, one time) are finished, and the game state is shifted to the general gaming state. The SB gaming state can be identified by turning on or off the SB operating flag. The SB operating flag is information for identifying whether or not the gaming state is the SB gaming state.

  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 according to a preset program (FIGS. 12 to 21 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.

  The ROM 32 of the microcomputer 30 has an internal lottery table (FIG. 9 to be described later) used for determination of random number sampling performed every time the start lever 6 is operated (start operation), and the reel stop mode according to the stop button operation. A stop table group and the like for determining are 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, and a storage area shown in FIG. The RAM 33 stores, for example, information such as an internal winning combination, a carryover combination described later, and the current gaming state.

  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 way, for example, an internal winning combination is determined based on an internal lottery table (FIG. 9 to be described later) stored in the ROM 32, for example. The internal winning combination (internal winning combination data) is that the corresponding symbol combination and the profit given to the player are indirectly associated with each other through the stop control mode corresponding to the internal winning combination. I can say 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.

  Further, a symbol combination table (FIG. 6 described later) is stored in the ROM 32. In this symbol combination table, a symbol combination (a symbol combination corresponding to a display combination to be described later), a medal payout number corresponding to a display combination to be described later, and a winning (establishment) thereof are determined. A winning determination code (establishment determination code) (not shown) is associated. The symbol combination table described above is used to confirm the winning (display combination) and determine the number of payouts when the left reel 3L, the center reel 3C, and the right reel 3R are stopped and after all the reels 3L, 3C, 3R are stopped. Referenced in case. 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 is determined by the lottery process (internal lottery process or the like) based on the random number sampling, the CPU 31 uses the stop switches 7LS, 7CS, and 7RS at the timing when the player operates the stop buttons 7L, 7C, and 7R. Based on the operation signal sent and the determined stop table, a signal for controlling the stop of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R is sent to the motor drive circuit 39.

  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.

  The symbol combination table will be described with reference to FIG.

  The symbol combination table includes a display combination corresponding to a combination of symbols stopped and displayed at each of the three symbol stop positions connected by one effective line, and information on the number of payouts for each inserted number corresponding to the display combination. Yes. This symbol combination table is referred to when the payout number is determined according to the symbol combination displayed along the active line after all reels 3L, 3C, 3R are stopped.

  When the winning number described later is 2 (cherry), the display combination may be cherry. The cherries include horn cherries and medium cherries. Whether the display combination is a square cherry or a middle cherry is related to the operation timing of the left stop button 7L. The display combination becomes the middle cherry when the so-called “bitter push” of “cherry” is performed at the position of the center line 8c.

  When “cherry (corner) -ANY-ANY” is arranged along the active line, the display role is a square cherry. When the number of inserted coins is 1 or 2, 15 medals are paid out and the number of inserted coins is 3. In this case, 8 medals are paid out. “Cherry (corner)” indicates “cherry” stopped and displayed at the upper or lower stage of the left symbol display area 21L. “ANY” indicates an arbitrary symbol.

  When “cherry (medium) -ANY-ANY” is arranged along the active line, the display combination becomes the middle cherry. When the number of inserted coins is 1 or 2, 15 medals are paid out and the number of inserted coins is 3. In this case, 4 medals are paid out. “Cherry (middle)” indicates “cherry” stopped and displayed in the middle of the left symbol display area 21L.

  When “Bell-Bell-Bell” is arranged along the effective line, the display combination becomes a bell. When the number of inserted coins is 1 or 2, 15 medals are paid out. When the number of inserted coins is 3, Ten medals are paid out. When “watermelon-watermelon-watermelon” are arranged along the active line, the display combination becomes watermelon, and eight medals are paid out regardless of the number of inserted coins. When “Replay-Replay-Replay” is arranged along the active line, the display combination is replayed and medals are automatically inserted.

  When “BAR-BAR-BAR” is arranged along the active line, the display combination becomes RB, and the gaming state shifts to the RB gaming state. When “red 7-red 7-red 7” are arranged along the active line, the display combination is BB, and the gaming state is shifted to the RB gaming state by turning on the BB operating flag. When “BELL-REPLAY-REPLAY” is arranged along the active line, the display combination becomes SB, and the gaming state shifts to the SB gaming state.

  The internal winning combination, carryover combination, operating flag, and game state storage area (storage area) will be described with reference to FIG.

  (1) of FIG. 7 shows an internal winning combination storage area (display combination storage area). In this internal winning combination storage area, information (data) of the internal winning combination is stored (stored) in the internal winning combination storage area consisting of 1 byte. In the internal winning combination storage area, bit 0 (first bit) is a storage area corresponding to cherry. Bit 1 (second bit) is a storage area corresponding to the bell. Bit 2 (third bit) is a storage area corresponding to a watermelon. Bit 3 (fourth bit) is a storage area corresponding to replay.

  Bit 4 (the fifth bit) is a storage area corresponding to RB. Bit 5 (sixth bit) is a storage area corresponding to BB. Bit 6 (seventh bit) is a storage area corresponding to SB. Bit 7 (eighth bit) is an unused storage area. In the internal winning combination storage area, the one corresponding to the bit which is 1 (combination) is the internal winning combination. The internal winning combination storage area stores a logical sum of data corresponding to the internal winning combination determined in step S81 of FIG. 17 described later and data stored in the carryover combination storing area described later (described later). Step S83 in FIG.

  The internal winning combination (internal winning combination data) is basically information for identifying the mode of stop control and identifying a combination that can be a display combination (a combination that can be permitted as a display combination). In the internal winning combination, it can be said that the corresponding symbol combination and the profit given to the player are indirectly associated with each other through the stop control mode corresponding to the internal winning combination.

  (2) of FIG. 7 shows a carryover combination storage area. In this carryover combination storage area, carryover combination information is stored in a carryover combination storage area consisting of 1 byte. In the carryover combination storage area, bit 4 (fifth bit) is a storage area (storage area) corresponding to RB. Bit 5 (sixth bit) is a storage area corresponding to BB. Bit 0 (first bit), bit 1 (second bit), bit 2 (third bit), bit 3 (fourth bit), bit 6 (seventh bit), and bit 7 (eighth bit) are: This is an unused storage area.

  In the carryover combination storage area, the logical product of the data corresponding to the internal winning combination determined in step S81 of FIG. 17 to be described later and bonus check data is calculated, and the result of this logical operation is stored in the carryover combination storage area. The logical sum with the obtained data is stored (step S82 in FIG. 17 described later). The bonus check data is information for identifying whether or not the BB or RB is carried over, and is “00110000” data composed of 1 byte.

  (3) of FIG. 7 shows the operating flag storage area. In this operating flag storage area, the operating flag information is stored in the operating flag storage area consisting of 1 byte. In the operating flag storage area, bit 4 (the fifth bit) is a storage area corresponding to the RB operating flag. Bit 5 (sixth bit) is a storage area corresponding to the BB operating flag. Bit 6 (seventh bit) is a storage area corresponding to the SB operating flag. Bit 0 (first bit), bit 1 (second bit), bit 2 (third bit), bit 3 (fourth bit), and bit 7 (eighth bit) are unused storage areas.

  (4) of FIG. 7 shows a game state storage area. In this gaming state storage area, gaming state information is stored in a gaming state storage area consisting of 1 byte. In the gaming state storage area, bit 4 (the fifth bit) is a storage area corresponding to the RB gaming state. Bit 6 (seventh bit) is a storage area corresponding to the SB gaming state. Bit 0 (first bit), bit 1 (second bit), bit 2 (third bit), bit 3 (fourth bit), bit 5 (sixth bit), and bit 7 (eighth bit) are: This is an unused storage area.

  Here, information corresponding to the gaming state is stored in the gaming state storage area (step S62, step S64, and step S65 in FIG. 16 described later). When the data stored in the game state storage area is 0, that is, all the bits are 0 (“00000000”), the general game state is indicated.

  The internal lottery table determination table will be described with reference to FIG.

  The internal lottery table determination table includes an internal lottery table (FIG. 9 described later) corresponding to the gaming state and information on the number of lotteries.

  Here, in the case of the general gaming state, an internal lottery table for general gaming state ((1) in FIG. 9 described later) is selected, and basically, 7 is determined as the number of lotteries (described in FIG. 17 described later). Step S71). The number of lotteries is the number of times required for determining the internal winning combination. Specifically, the number of lotteries is the number of times (the maximum number of times) for calculating XD described later. However, in the case of the carryover section, the number of lotteries determined to be 7 is updated to 4 (step S73 in FIG. 17 described later).

  The internal lottery table will be described with reference to FIG. The internal lottery table is provided for each gaming state and includes lottery value information corresponding to the winning number for each inserted number.

  (1) of FIG. 9 shows an internal lottery table for a general gaming state. (2) of FIG. 9 shows an internal lottery table for the RB gaming state. (3) of FIG. 9 shows the internal lottery table for the SB gaming state.

  In the determination of the winning number (lottery) based on the internal lottery table, XD is calculated in descending order from the same winning number as the number of lotteries determined for each gaming state until the winning number becomes 0. If X-D becomes negative, the corresponding winning number is won. X is the extracted random value. D is a cumulative lottery value obtained by accumulating lottery values from the winning number where the calculation is started to the current winning number. The number of times X-D is calculated (the maximum number of times) is the same as the number of lotteries determined in the internal lottery table determination table of FIG. If X-D is calculated up to the maximum number and does not become negative, the winning number is 0 (lost). The internal winning combination is determined based on the winning number, the game state, the number of inserted games, and the internal winning combination determination table (FIG. 10 described later).

  For example, in the case where the inserted number is 3 in the non-carry-over section in the general gaming state, and the random number value extracted from the range of 0 to 65535 is 50800, first, X (50800) -D (50731) for winning number 7 Calculate This calculation result becomes positive and the winning number 7 is not won. Next, X (50800) −D (50731 + 96) is calculated for winning number 6. This calculation result becomes positive and the winning number 6 is not won.

  Next, X (50800) −D (50731 + 96 + 96) is calculated for winning number 5. The result of this calculation is negative. Accordingly, when the random number X extracted when the number of inserted coins is 3 in the non-carry-over section is 50800, the winning number 5 is won. In this case, based on an internal winning combination determination table (FIG. 10) described later, the RB corresponding to the winning number 5 becomes an internal winning combination.

  Here, in the carryover section, since the number of lotteries is updated to 4 (step S73 in FIG. 17 described later), any of the winning numbers 5 to 7 is not determined as the winning number. That is, in the carryover section, BB, RB, or SB is not determined as an internal winning combination.

  The loss of the internal winning combination indicates that the internal lottery did not win the combination associated with the player's profit. Further, the loss in the embodiment is not a combination associated with the game value. In addition, the symbol combination corresponding to the loss as the internal winning combination can be considered as an arbitrary symbol combination different from the symbol combination corresponding to the plurality of predetermined combinations, but in the embodiment, The corresponding symbol combination is not provided.

  The internal winning combination determination table will be described with reference to FIG.

  The internal winning combination determination table includes information (data) of an internal winning combination (flag information) corresponding to the winning number. The flag is represented by a binary number. The data of the internal winning combination corresponding to the winning number determined based on the internal lottery table is the logic of the data stored in the carryover combination storing area ((2) of FIG. 7) in step S83 of FIG. Used for sum. This logical sum is stored in the internal winning combination storing area ((1) in FIG. 7).

  Here, the expected values K and L (expected values not considering so-called “missing”) of the number of medals to be paid out per unit (unit game value) bet on one game (unit play rate) will be described. . The expected values K and L are basically calculated by calculating {Payout number / BET number} × {Internal winning probability} for each internal winning combination corresponding to the winning number in the internal lottery table, and adding them together. It can be calculated. The internal winning probability is a value obtained by dividing the lottery value by 65536.

  The expected value K is an expected value of the number of medals to be paid out per medal bet on one game in the general gaming state. The expected value L is an expected value of the number of medals to be paid out per medals bet on one game in the SB gaming state. The general gaming state is composed of a carry-over section and a non-carry-over section. However, in any section, medals are not paid out due to the establishment of a bonus. The expected value in the state can be calculated.

In the general gaming state, assuming that the expected value when the inserted number is 1 is K1, the expected value when the inserted number is 2 is K2, and the expected value when the inserted number is 3 is K3,
K1 = {15/1} × {1 / (65536-8980)} × {1/7} (medium cherry)
+ {15/1} × {1 / (65536-8980)} × {6/7} (horn cherry)
+ {15/1} × {1 / (65536-8980)} (bell)
+ {8/1} × {1 / (65536-8980)} (watermelon)
= 0.0007
K2 = {15/2} x {4 / (65536-8980)} x {1/7} (medium cherry)
+ {15/2} × {4 / (65536-8980)} × {6/7} (horn cherry)
+ {15/2} × {4 / (65536-8980)} (bell)
+ {8/2} × {4 / (65536-8980)} (watermelon)
= 0.0013
K3 = {4/3} × {1024 / (65536-8980)} × {1/7} (medium cherry)
+ {8/3} × {1024 / (65536-8980)} × {6/7} (horn cherry)
+ {10/3} × {4096 / (65536-8980)} (bell)
+ {8/3} × {512 / (65536-8980)} (watermelon)
= 0.3104
It becomes.

Also, in the SB gaming state, assuming that the expected value when the inserted number is 1 is L1, the expected value when the inserted number is 2 is L2, and the expected value when the inserted number is 3 is L3,
L1 = {15/1} × {2 / (65536)} × {1/7} (medium cherry)
+ {15/1} × {2 / (65536)} × {6/7} (horn cherry)
+ {15/1} × {2 / (65536)} (bell)
+ {8/1} × {2 / (65536)} (watermelon)
= 0.0012
L2 = {15/2} x {5 / (65536)} x {1/7} (medium cherry)
+ {15/2} × {5 / (65536)} × {6/7} (horn cherry)
+ {15/2} × {5 / (65536)} (bell)
+ {8/2} × {5 / (65536)} (watermelon)
= 0.0014
L3 = {4/3} × {1025 / (65536)} × {1/7} (medium cherry)
+ {8/3} × {1025 / (65536)} × {6/7} (horn cherry)
+ {10/3} × {4097 / (65536)} (bell)
+ {8/3} × {513 / (65536)} (watermelon)
= 0.2680
It becomes.

  Here, when the replay is established, it is possible to play the next game without betting medals, but it can be considered that the medal is not paid out. Therefore, the replay internal lottery value 8980 is subtracted from 65536 in the denominator of the probability of internal winning.

  In addition, when the cherry is an internal winning combination, the display combination is a square cherry (the number of payouts when the number is 1 or 2, the number of payouts when the number is 3 and the number of payouts when the number is 3): 8 The payout number in the case of 1 or 2 is either 15, or the payout number in the case of the input number 3 is 4). The stop position at which the cherry can be stopped and displayed in the left symbol display area 21L (symbol display mode in the left symbol display area 21L during the stop operation) is 7. Among the seven stop positions, the number of stop positions where the display combination is a square cherry is 6, and the number of stop positions where the display combination is a medium cherry is 1 (only when bitter pressing is performed). Therefore, when the cherry wins the internal winning combination, the probabilities that the corner cherry and the middle cherry will become the display combination are 6/7 and 1/7, respectively, and are multiplied in the calculation of the expected value.

  In the general gaming state, when the expected values K1 to K3 are taken into consideration, it is relatively most advantageous when the inserted number is 3. Further, K1 to K3 in the general gaming state are all smaller than 1. Therefore, the general gaming state is a disadvantageous state that is disadvantageous for the player.

  In the SB gaming state, when the expected values L1 to L3 are taken into consideration, it is relatively most advantageous when the inserted number is 3. Also, L1 to L3 in the SB gaming state are all smaller than 1. Therefore, the SB gaming state is a disadvantageous state that is disadvantageous for the player.

  In addition, when the expected values K1 to K3 in the general gaming state and the expected values L1 to L3 in the SB gaming state are compared, the expected values L1 and L2 in the SB gaming state are relative to the expected values K1 and K2 in the general gaming state. Big. On the other hand, the expected value L3 in the SB gaming state is relatively smaller than the expected value K3 in the general gaming state.

  From the viewpoint that a player generally plays with three medals, when comparing the expected value L3 in the SB gaming state with the expected value K3 in the general gaming state, the SB gaming state is more than the general gaming state. This is a relatively unfavorable gaming state for the player.

  With reference to FIG. 11, the bonus operation time table will be described.

  The bonus operating time table includes, for each display combination, information on an operating flag (to be described later), a bonus end number counter (to be described later), a game possible number, and a winning possible number. This bonus operating time table is referred to in the processing in step S33 in FIG. 14 described later and the processing in step S122 in FIG. 20 described later.

  The operating flag is information for identifying an operating gaming state (current gaming state). The operating flag includes a BB operating flag, an RB operating flag, and an SB operating flag corresponding to the display combination.

  The bonus end number counter is a counter that counts the number of medals paid out in a game from when the BB operating flag is updated to on until the BB operating flag is updated to off.

  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 (step S1). Specifically, initialization of the storage contents of the RAM 33, initialization of communication data, and the like are performed. Subsequently, a storage location (address) of a predetermined storage content (information of a predetermined storage area (for example, an area for storing an internal winning combination and an area for storing game state information)) at the end of the game is set. (Step S2), the process proceeds to Step S3. In step S3, the predetermined storage contents of the RAM 33 are erased (cleared) based on the address set in step S2. 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 S4, a bonus operation monitoring process described later with reference to FIG. 14 is performed, and the process proceeds to step S5. In this process, when the BB operating flag is on, processing is performed to update the RB operating flag to on so that the RB gaming state continues even after the RB gaming state ends. In step S5, a medal insertion / start check process described later with reference to FIG. 15 is performed, and the process proceeds to step S6. In this processing, processing such as updating the number of BETs is performed based on inputs from the start switch 6S, the medal sensor 22S, or the BET switches 11-13.

  In step S6, a random number for lottery is extracted, and the process proceeds to step S7. The random value extracted in this process is used in an internal lottery process described later. In step S7, a gaming state monitoring process which will be described later with reference to FIG. 16 is performed, and the process proceeds to step S8. In step S8, an internal lottery process which will be described later with reference to FIG. 17 is performed, and the process proceeds to step S9. In step S9, a start command is transmitted, and the process proceeds to step S10 in FIG. 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 S10 in FIG. 13, it is determined whether 4.1 seconds have elapsed since the start of the previous reel rotation. When this determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S12, and when NO, the process proceeds to step S11. In step S11, a game start waiting time digest process (wait) is performed, and the process proceeds to step S12. Specifically, a process of invalidating an input based on an operation for starting a player's game 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 S12, the start of rotation of all reels is requested, and the process proceeds to step S13. In step S13, a reel stop control process described later with reference to FIG. 18 is performed, and the process proceeds to step S14.

  In step S14, the display combination and the number of payouts are determined based on the symbol combination table (FIG. 6), and the process proceeds to step S15. In this step S14, a flag for identifying a display combination (a winning combination) is set based on a symbol stop mode of the symbol display areas 21L, 21C, and 21R. When a combination of symbols not included in the symbol combination table is displayed in the symbol display areas 21L, 21C, and 21R, the display combination is lost, and the number of payouts is zero. In step S15, a display combination command is transmitted, and the process proceeds to step S16.

  In step S16, a medal payout process is performed, and the process proceeds to step S17. In step S17, the bonus end number counter is updated based on the payout number, and the process proceeds to step S18. If the bonus end number counter is 1 or more, the counter is subtracted according to the number of medals paid out. In step S18, it is determined whether the RB operating flag, the BB operating flag, or the SB operating flag is on. When this determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S19, and when NO, the process proceeds to step S20.

  In step S19, a bonus end check process which will be described later with reference to FIG. 19 is performed, and the process proceeds to step S20. In step S20, a bonus operation check process described later with reference to FIG. 20 is performed, and the process proceeds to step S2 in FIG.

  The bonus operation monitoring process will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the BB operating flag is on (step S31). When this determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S32, and when this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S5 in FIG. In step S32, it is determined whether or not the RB operating flag is ON. When this determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S5 in FIG. 12, and when NO, the process proceeds to step S33.

  In step S33, RB operation processing is performed based on the bonus operation table (FIG. 11), and the process proceeds to step S5 in FIG. Specifically, the RB operating flag is updated to ON, and the possible game number and the possible winning number are stored in the RAM 33. In steps S31 to S33, when the BB operating flag is on, the RB operating flag is updated to ON when the RB gaming state ends, and processing is performed so that the RB gaming state starts again. It has been broken.

  The medal insertion / start check process will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the automatic insertion counter is 0, that is, whether or not replay has been established in the previous game (step S41). When this determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S42, and when this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S43. The automatic insertion counter is a counter that counts the number of medals to be automatically inserted when the display combination is replay. In step S42, the insertion of medals is permitted, and the process proceeds to step S45. In step S43, the inserted number (inserted number counter) is updated based on the automatic insertion counter, and the process proceeds to step S44. The inserted number counter is a counter that counts the number of inserted medals.

  In step S44, a bet command is transmitted, and the process proceeds to step S45. In step S45, it is determined whether or not insertion of medals is permitted. When this determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S46, and when NO, the process proceeds to step S53. In step S46, the medal sensor / bet switch is checked, and the process proceeds to step S47. Specifically, input from the medal sensor 10S or the BET switches 11 to 13 is checked.

  In step S47, it is determined whether or not a signal from the medal sensor / bet switch has been detected, that is, whether or not a medal has been inserted. Specifically, it is determined whether or not a signal from the medal sensor 10S or the BET switches 11 to 13 is detected. When this determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S48, and when this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S53. In step S48, the number of inserted sheets is updated, and the process proceeds to step S49. In step S48, the insertion number counter is incremented by one. In step S49, a bet command is transmitted, and the process proceeds to step S50.

  In step S50, it is determined whether or not the RB operating flag is on. 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 S51, it is determined whether or not the number of inserted sheets is three. When this determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S52, and when this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S53. In step S52, since the maximum inserted number 3 is inserted in the general gaming state and the maximum inserted number 1 is inserted in the RB gaming state, the insertion of medals is prohibited, and the process proceeds to step S53. In step S53, it is determined whether or not the insertion number counter is 1 or more, that is, whether or not the insertion number is 1 or more. If this determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S54, and if NO, the process proceeds to step S45.

  In step S54, it is determined whether or not the start switch 6S is on. Specifically, it is determined whether or not there is an input from the start switch 6S based on the operation of the start lever 6. When this determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S6 in FIG. 12, and when NO, the process proceeds to step S45. In this medal insertion / start check process, medals inserted when medal insertion is prohibited are added as credits.

  The gaming state monitoring process will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the SB operating flag is on (step S61). When this determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S62, and when it is NO, the process proceeds to step S63. In step S62, the identifier of the SB gaming state is stored, and the process proceeds to step S8 in FIG.

  In step S63, it is determined whether or not the RB operating flag is ON. When this determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S64, and when NO, the process proceeds to step S65. In step S64, the identifier of the RB gaming state is stored, and the process proceeds to step S8 in FIG. In step S65, the general gaming state identifier is stored, and the process proceeds to step S8 in FIG. In this way, in the gaming state monitoring process, the gaming state is monitored based on the operating flag (RB operating flag, BB operating flag, or SB operating flag), and in step S71 of FIG. The information for selecting the type of the internal lottery table corresponding to is stored in the RAM 33 (game state storage area).

  The internal lottery process will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, based on the internal lottery table determination table (FIG. 8), the CPU 31 determines the type and number of lotteries in the internal lottery table (FIG. 9) according to the gaming state (step S71), and proceeds to step S72. In step S72, whether or not the data (information) stored in the carryover combination storage area is 0, that is, whether all the first to eighth bits of the carryover combination storage area ((2) in FIG. 7) are 0. Is determined. When this determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S74, and when this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S73. Here, when this determination is YES, it is a case of a non-carry-over section in the general gaming state, and when it is NO, it is a case of a carry-over section. In step S73, the number of lotteries is changed to 4, and the process proceeds to step S74.

  In step S74, the same value as the number of lotteries is set as the winning number, and the process proceeds to step S75. Specifically, the winning number is 7 in the non-carry-over section in the general gaming state, the winning number is 4 in the carry-over section in the general gaming state, and the winning number is 3 in the RB gaming state and the SB gaming state. A number is set in the register.

  In step S75, the internal lottery table determined in step S71 is referred to, a lottery value is acquired based on the winning number and the number of inserted sheets, and the process proceeds to step S76. In step S76, the lottery value (X) is subtracted from the random value (D), and the process proceeds to step S77. Here, the lottery value (X) is accumulated according to the lottery value corresponding to the winning number. In step S77, it is determined whether or not a digit has been taken. Specifically, it is determined whether or not the calculation result of X−D is negative. When this determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S81, and when this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S78.

  In step S78, 1 is subtracted from the winning number, and the process proceeds to step S79. In step S79, 1 is subtracted from the number of lotteries, and the process proceeds to step S80. In step S80, it is determined whether or not the number of lotteries is zero. When this determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S81, and when this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S75.

  In step S81, with reference to the internal winning combination determination table (FIG. 10), an internal winning combination is determined based on the winning number, and the process proceeds to step S82. In step S82, the logical product of the data corresponding to the internal winning combination and the bonus check data is calculated, and the logical sum of the logical operation result and the data in the carryover combination storage area is stored in the carryover combination storage area. Move. In step S83, the logical sum of the data corresponding to the internal winning combination and the data in the carryover combination storing area is stored in the internal winning combination storing area, and the process proceeds to step S9 in FIG.

  Here, for example, when the internal winning combination is a bell small role and carries over BB, the data corresponding to the internal winning combination is “00000010”, and the data stored in the carryover combination storing area is “00100000”. . In this case, in step S82, the logical product of the data corresponding to the internal winning combination (“00000010”) and the bonus check data (“00110000”) is “00000000”. The logical sum of the result of this logical operation (“00000000”) and the data (“00100000”) stored in the carryover combination storage area is “00100000”. This result (“00100000”) is stored in the carryover combination storage area.

  In step S83, the logical sum of the data corresponding to the internal winning combination (“00000010”) and the data stored in the carryover combination storage area (“00100000”) is “00100010”. This result (“00100010”) is stored in the internal winning combination storing area.

  The reel stop control process will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, the CPU 31 determines whether or not a valid stop button has been pressed, that is, whether or not there is an input from the stop switches 7LS, 7CS, and 7RS (step S91). If this determination is YES, the process moves to a step S94, and if NO, the process moves to a step S92. In step S92, it is determined whether or not the automatic stop timer is zero. If this determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S93. If NO, the process moves to step S91.

  In step S93, information on the reel that is rotating on the right side is set, and the process proceeds to step S94. With this information, for example, when a plurality of reels are rotating, the reels are automatically stopped from the right reel. In step S94, the number of sliding frames is determined, and the process proceeds to step S95. In step S95, a planned stop position (position to stop the symbol) is determined based on the determined number of sliding symbols and the current symbol position, and the process proceeds to step S96. In step S96, the process shifts to the stop planned position waiting state, and the process proceeds to step S97.

  In step S97, a reel stop command is transmitted, and the process proceeds to step S98. In step S98, it is determined whether or not there is a rotating reel. When this determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S91, and when NO, the process proceeds to step S14 in FIG.

  The bonus end check process will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the SB operating flag is on (step S101). When this determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S102, and when NO, the process proceeds to step S103. In step S102, the SB operating flag is updated to OFF, and the process proceeds to step S20 in FIG.

  In step S103, it is determined whether or not a winning is achieved. When this determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S104, and when this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S110. In step S104, it is determined whether or not the BB operating flag is ON. When this determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S105, and when this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S108. In step S105, it is determined whether or not the bonus end number counter is zero. When this determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S106, and when this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S108.

  In step S106, RB end time processing is performed, and then the process proceeds to step S107. Specifically, clearing the RB operating flag, clearing the number of possible winnings and the number of possible games are performed. In step S107, processing at the end of BB is performed, and the process proceeds to step S20 in FIG. Specifically, the BB operating flag is cleared, the bonus end number counter is cleared, and the like.

  In step S108, 1 is subtracted from the number of possible winnings, and the process proceeds to step S109. In step S109, it is determined whether or not the possible number of winnings is zero. When this determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S112, and when this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S110. In step S110, 1 is subtracted from the possible number of games, and the process proceeds to step S111. In step S111, it is determined whether or not the possible number of games is zero. When this determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S112, and when NO, the process proceeds to step S20 in FIG. In step S112, processing at the end of RB is performed, and the process proceeds to step S20 in FIG.

  The bonus operation check process will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the display combination is RB or BB (step S121). When this determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S122, and when this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S124. In step S122, bonus operation time processing is performed based on the bonus operation time table (FIG. 11), and the process proceeds to step S123. For example, when the display combination is BB, the operating flag (BB operation flag) corresponding to the display combination (BB) is updated to ON with reference to the bonus operating table (FIG. 11), and payout is possible. Set the number of sheets (bonus end number counter). In step S123, the carryover combination is cleared and the process proceeds to step S2 in FIG.

  In step S124, it is determined whether or not the display combination is SB. When this determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S125, and when this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S126. In step S125, the SB operating flag is updated to ON, and the process proceeds to step S2 in FIG.

  In step S126, it is determined whether or not the display combination is replay. When this determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S127, and when NO, the process proceeds to step S2 in FIG. In step S127, the insertion number counter is copied to the automatic insertion counter, and the process proceeds to step S2 in FIG. Specifically, in step S127, the same number as the number inserted for the current game is set (automatic input) in the automatic input counter.

  With reference to FIG. 21, the interruption process by control of main CPU (CPU31) is demonstrated. This periodic interrupt process is performed every 1.1173 ms.

  First, the CPU 31 saves the register (step S131), and proceeds to step S132. In step S132, an input port check process is performed, and the process proceeds to step S133. Specifically, it is confirmed whether or not there is an input from the start switch 6S when the start lever 6 is pressed. In step S133, a reel control process is performed, and the process proceeds to step S134. Specifically, information indicating the reel to be controlled is set as a reel identifier, and the drive of the reel is controlled.

  In step S134, a lamp and 7SEG driving process is performed, and the process proceeds to step S135. Specifically, the BET lamps 17a to 17c are turned on based on the number of medals bet on the game. Further, the number of medals stored (credited), the number of paid-out medals when the winning combination is established, and the like are displayed on the credit display unit 19. In step S135, the register is restored, and the periodic interrupt process ends.

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

  In the embodiment, a single role corresponding to SB is used, but the present invention is not limited to this. A plurality of types of SBs may be provided, and a symbol combination and an SB gaming state corresponding to each SB may be determined in advance. For example, SB1 (first combination) and SB2 (second combination) are provided as a plurality of types of SB. In the SB1 gaming state generated by displaying the symbol combination corresponding to SB1, the internal winning combination is determined using the first internal lottery table. In the SB2 gaming state that occurs when the symbol combination corresponding to SB2 is displayed, an internal winning combination is determined using the second internal lottery table.

  Further, in the SB1 gaming state in which the winning combination is determined using the first internal lottery table, the expected value of the number of medals paid out in the SB1 gaming state is set to be larger than the expected value of the number of medals paid out in the general gaming state. be able to. On the other hand, in the SB2 gaming state in which the winning combination is determined using the second internal lottery table, the expected value of the number of medals paid out in the SB2 gaming state is set to be smaller than the expected value of the number of medals paid out in the general gaming state. be able to.

  In the embodiment, the expected value in the SB gaming state when the inserted number is 1 or the inserted number is 2 is set to be relatively larger than the expected value in the general gaming state, but is not limited to this. Absent. For example, by changing the lottery value of the internal lottery table for the general gaming state or the internal lottery table for the SB gaming state, the expected value in the SB gaming state when the inserted number is 1 or the inserted number is 2 is the value in the general gaming state It can be made relatively smaller than the expected value.

  In the embodiment, the expected values in the general gaming state and the SB gaming state are made different depending on whether or not the internal winning is made for the replay and the probability of making the internal winning for the small role, but is not limited thereto. For example, the expected value in the general gaming state and the SB gaming state can be made different by making the number of payouts due to winning a small role different between the general gaming state and the SB gaming state. In this case, whether or not the internal winning is made for the replay and the probability of making the internal winning for the small role may be made different together with the payout number.

  Moreover, you may provide the alerting | reporting means comprised so that the information regarding a game could be alert | reported. For example, when an SB wins an internal winning, by providing an informing means for notifying the player to that effect, the player recognizes the internal winning of the SB and performs an operation (such as pressing) to avoid the establishment of the SB. There are cases where it is possible.

  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 a gaming machine. 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 figure which shows a symbol combination table. The figure which shows various storage areas. The figure which shows an internal lottery table determination table. The figure which shows an internal lottery table. The figure which shows an internal winning combination determination table. The figure which shows a table at the time of a bonus action | operation. The main flowchart of a main control circuit. The flowchart following FIG. The flowchart which shows a bonus operation | movement monitoring process. The flowchart which shows medal insertion / start check processing. The flowchart which shows a gaming state monitoring process. The flowchart which shows an internal lottery process. The flowchart which shows a reel stop control process. The flowchart which shows a bonus completion | finish check process. The flowchart which shows a bonus action check process. The flowchart which shows the interruption process by control of main CPU.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Game machine 2 Front door 3L, 3C, 3R Reel 6 Start lever 7L, 7C, 7R Stop button 30 Microcomputer 31 CPU
32 ROM
33 RAM
71 Main control circuit 72 Sub control circuit

Claims (5)

A symbol display means for displaying a plurality of 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 the signal output by the start signal output means;
A symbol change means for changing the symbol displayed by the symbol display means based on the signal output by the start signal output means;
Stop signal output means for outputting a signal for instructing stop of the change of the symbol performed by the symbol change means based on the stop operation;
Based on the signal output by the stop signal output means and the winning combination determined by the winning combination determining means, stop control means for performing stop control of symbol variation performed by the symbol varying means,
A symbol determining means for determining a symbol combination displayed by the symbol displaying means;
When it is determined by the symbol determining means that a predetermined symbol combination is displayed by the symbol display means, a game value giving means for giving a player a game value;
When the symbol determining means determines that a predetermined symbol combination is displayed by the symbol display means in a specific state, it operates in a disadvantageous state that is relatively disadvantageous for the player as compared with the specific state. Disadvantageous means of operation;
When a predetermined number of unit games are performed in the disadvantageous state, disadvantageous operation ending means for terminating the operation of the disadvantageous state;
A gaming machine comprising: The gaming machine according to claim 1,
The winning combination determining means determines a winning combination based on the winning combination determination information,
The gaming machine characterized in that the disadvantageous state operating means operates the disadvantageous state by switching winning combination determining information used by the winning combination determining means for determining a winning combination.   3. The gaming machine according to claim 2, wherein an expectation of a gaming value given to a player based on the winning combination determination information corresponding to the disadvantageous state with respect to a unit gaming value used to play a game in the disadvantageous state The value is compared with the expected value of the game value given to the player based on the winning combination determination information corresponding to the specific state with respect to the unit game value used to play the game in the specific state A gaming machine characterized by being relatively small.   The gaming value given to the player according to claim 2 or 3, based on the winning combination determination information corresponding to the disadvantaged state with respect to the unit gaming value used for playing the game in the disadvantaged state. The gaming machine is characterized in that the expected value is less than 1. 5. A gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the predetermined number of unit games is one unit game.

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