JP2007061423A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To heighten the game property of a variable display game by making a game player continue to have a desire for getting a high dividend and play a variable display game. <P>SOLUTION: A slot machine includes: a reel for making a variable display of a plurality of symbols; and a CPU for determining a stop pattern to stop and display on an effective line, and stopping and displaying the stop pattern on the effective line, wherein the variable display game is played by the variable display and the stop display of the plurality of symbols to put out a dividend depending upon the combination of the stop symbols. The reel has a three consecutive disposition structure in which a high dividend symbol W and a high dividend symbol W2 different in picture are adjacent to a blank symbol W3 formed by a black display part where no picture is displayed. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2007,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine capable of a variable display game by variable display and stop display of a plurality of symbols.

  Conventionally, various gaming machines such as slot machines are known as gaming machines for paying out gaming media (hereinafter referred to as “coins”) used in games such as medals and coins according to the winning contents of the game.

For example, in a slot machine, a plurality of symbols can be variably displayed in a plurality of rows by a mechanical reel having a plurality of symbols attached to the outer peripheral surface, or an image resembling a reel is displayed on a display means such as a liquid crystal display device. In some cases, a variable display game (also referred to as a slot game) is performed by performing variable display and stop display of symbols. In any case, when a player performs a predetermined operation, each reel rotates or scrolls, and when each reel stops, a combination of symbols of each reel that comes on a predetermined active line (payline) (hereinafter, a combination of symbols). By “design combination”), whether or not to win a variable display game and the mode (winning mode) when winning are determined. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses this type of slot machine. Patent Document 2 discloses a pachinko gaming machine applicable to this type of slot machine.
JP 2005-73829 A JP-A-7-96072

  By the way, in the case of the conventional slot machine described above, a high payout symbol (for example, “7” etc.) indicating that the payout is the highest among a plurality of symbols on the reel. Has a distributed arrangement structure in which symbols given to the player) are appropriately dispersed in the reel rotation direction (another symbol is arranged between the high payout symbols). This is mainly due to the fact that the high payout pattern that shows that a large payout has been obtained appears moderately, and the player's expectation of winning the payout is distributed across the entire reel, so that it will not appear unevenly. It is to do.

  However, if the reel has a distributed arrangement structure, the high payout symbol is slightly shifted from the active line and a different symbol is displayed, so that the high payout is impossible. If this is repeated and this is repeated, there is a drawback that after that, the player cannot play the game with a further willingness to win a high payout.

  Regarding this point, there is also an idea of increasing the winning symbol as in the gaming machine of Patent Document 2, for example. However, although it seems that it is easier for players to hit on the surface by displaying the winning symbol large, the winning symbol is shifted from the effective line as long as the winning symbols are distributed. Sometimes the expected high payout cannot be obtained, and the above problem cannot be solved.

  On the other hand, the symbol displayed on the reel includes a symbol called a blank symbol (for example, a symbol constituted by a blank display portion on which a symbol is not displayed, meaning a loss and no profit is given). In general, this blank symbol was a symbol with no special role other than the fact that it was obvious that it was out of place. In this regard, Patent Document 1 discloses a gaming machine in which this blank symbol has a role as a trigger for shifting to a bonus game. In this way, if the blank symbol has a role as a trigger to shift to the bonus game, it is possible to have an indirect expectation for winning a dividend such that a dividend may be obtained if the bonus game is shifted to. However, this does not necessarily mean that the high payout expected by the player can be obtained, and the above problem cannot be solved.

  Accordingly, the present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems, and it is an object of the present invention to improve the game playability of a variable display game by allowing a player to continue to have a willingness to obtain a high payout and perform a variable display game. And

  The gaming machine according to the present invention determines variable display means for variably displaying a plurality of symbols, and a stop symbol to be stopped and displayed on an active line for determining whether or not a winning is possible among the plurality of symbols for which variable display is performed. And a symbol display control unit for stopping and displaying the stop symbol determined by the symbol determining unit on the active line, and performing variable display game by variable display and stop display of a plurality of symbols. The variable display means has a first high payout symbol indicating that the design is different and the highest payout among a plurality of symbols, and the first high payout symbol. The second high payout symbol indicating that the payout is the next high payout has a three-continuous arrangement structure arranged adjacent to a blank symbol constituted by a blank display portion on which no picture is displayed. .

  In the gaming machine according to the present invention, a plurality of symbols including the first and second high payout symbols and the blank symbol are variably displayed by the variable display means, and the variable display means includes both the first and second high payout symbols. It has a three-continuous arrangement structure arranged so as to be adjacent to the blank design. Therefore, even if one of the first or second high payout symbols deviates from the active line, the other of the first or second high payout symbols tends to be stopped on the active line, and the first or second high payout symbol is not displayed even if stopped. Alternatively, either one of the second high payout symbols is arranged near the active line and is easily visually recognized. In addition, since a blank symbol is arranged between the first and second high payout symbols, when the blank symbol is stopped and displayed on the active line, a high payout is given if it is stopped and displayed one more time away. Although it was obtained, it is possible to make players feel such a disappointing feeling. As a result, the player can continue to have a variable display game with the desire to win a high dividend, and in particular, in a gaming machine such as a slot machine using a mechanical reel, the gameability of the variable display game is improved. Can do.

  Further, the variable display means includes a plurality of symbol strings in which a plurality of symbols are variably displayed, arranged in a line, and at least a specific symbol string that is stopped and displayed at the end of the plurality of symbol strings. It is preferable to have. In this way, the player can perform the variable display game while paying the most attention to the symbols that are stopped and displayed in the specific symbol sequence, so that the function of the three-continuous arrangement structure can be more effectively exhibited.

  Moreover, it is preferable that a plurality of symbol rows are arranged side by side, and the specific symbol row is arranged on the rightmost side. In this way, when the stop display of the symbol is performed last in the rightmost symbol row, the player performs the variable display game while paying the most attention to the symbol stopped and displayed in the rightmost symbol row. The function by can be exhibited more effectively.

  On the other hand, the gaming machine according to the present invention determines whether or not each of the variable display portions of the image display means can win a prize, and an image display means having a plurality of variable display portions for displaying variable display images of a plurality of symbols. A symbol determining means for determining a symbol to be stopped and displayed on the active line, and a symbol display control means for stopping and displaying the symbol determined by the symbol determining means on the effective line. A game machine that performs a variable display game by display and stop display and pays out a payout according to a stop symbol, wherein the image display means has a different pattern and shows the highest payout among a plurality of symbols. And a second high payout symbol indicating the next high payout symbol after the first high payout symbol are arranged adjacent to a blank symbol constituted by a blank display portion on which no picture is displayed. Is And performing three successive arrangement display for displaying like being.

  In the gaming machine according to the present invention, a variable display image of a plurality of symbols including the first and second high payout symbols and the blank symbol is displayed by the image display means, and the image display means has the first and second high payout symbols. Three consecutive arrangement displays are performed so that both are arranged adjacent to the blank symbol. Therefore, even if one of the first or second high payout symbols deviates from the active line, the other of the first or second high payout symbols is likely to be stopped and displayed, and one of the first or second high payout symbols is effective. Even if the display is stopped and deviated from the line, the other of the first or second high payout symbols is arranged near the active line and is easily visible. In addition, since a blank symbol is arranged between the first or second high payout symbols, when the blank symbol is stopped and displayed on the active line, a high payout is given if it is shifted and displayed one after another. Although it was obtained, it is possible to make players feel such a disappointing feeling. As a result, the player can continue to be willing to win a high payout and perform variable display games, especially in a gaming machine such as a slot machine using a reel (referred to as a pseudo-reel) displayed as an image. Game playability can be improved.

  In addition, it is preferable that the image display means perform three-continuous arrangement display on a specific variable display unit in which variable display units are displayed side by side and stopped at least last among a plurality of variable display units. In this way, the player plays the variable display game while paying the most attention to the symbols that are stopped and displayed on the specific variable display section, so that the function based on the three consecutive arrangement display can be more effectively exhibited.

  Further, it is preferable that the variable display unit is a rightmost variable display unit in which a plurality of variable display units are arranged side by side and the specific variable display unit is arranged on the rightmost side. In this case, when the stop display of the symbol is performed last on the rightmost variable display portion, the player performs the variable display game while paying attention to the symbol stopped and displayed on the rightmost variable display portion. The function based on the arrangement display can be more effectively exhibited.

  In any of the above gaming machines, at least one of the first or second high payout symbols is displayed larger than the other symbols excluding the first or second high payout symbols among the plurality of symbols. It is preferable. In this case, since either the first or second high payout symbol is highlighted with respect to the other symbols, a large profit can be obtained by aligning the first or second high payout symbol with the active line. It is possible to make the player easily recognize that it is given.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to improve the gameability of a variable display game by allowing a player to continue to have a willingness to obtain a high payout and to perform a variable display game.

  A gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the description, the same reference numerals are used for the same elements or elements having the same function, and a duplicate description is omitted.

  In the present embodiment, the following slot machine 1 is taken as an example when the present invention is applied to a gaming machine having a reel unit 5 as variable display means in the present invention that performs variable display of a plurality of symbols by a mechanical reel. explain. This slot machine 1 requires insertion of coins to start a game.

(Overall configuration of slot machine)
First, the overall configuration of the slot machine 1 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing the overall configuration of the slot machine according to the present embodiment.

  The slot machine 1 has a sub display 3 and a main display 4 in order from the upper side on the front side of the housing 2. The main display 4 is arranged substantially at the center of the upper and lower sides of the housing 2, and three mechanical reels 5L, 5C, 5R are rotatably arranged in a row in the housing 2 so as to correspond to the main display 4. The reel unit 5 is arranged.

  Each reel 5L, 5C, 5R can be visually recognized from the outside through a symbol display area 21L, 21C, 21R described later of the main display 4. As will be described in detail later, each reel 5L, 5C, 5R is freely rotatable so that a symbol row having a plurality of types of symbols is drawn on each outer peripheral surface, and each symbol is variably displayed. It rotates at a high speed (for example, 80 rpm).

  Corresponding to the reels 5L, 5C, 5R, in the symbol display areas 21L, 21C, 21R, as shown in FIG. 2, one pay line L1 extending horizontally is provided. Although not shown, in addition to the winning line L1, separate upper and lower winning lines may be provided. In this case, two winning lines may be provided obliquely. When a plurality of pay lines are provided, the number may be changed according to the number of coins inserted. In this case, each winning line is enabled according to the number of coins inserted and the operation of BET switches 10 and 11 described later. The activated pay line L1 is also called an active line or a payline. For example, when a player inserts one coin into the coin insertion slot 7 described later, only the central winning line L1 becomes an effective line, and when two coins are inserted, the upper and lower winning lines are added in addition to the winning line L1. When the number of cards is inserted, all winning lines become active lines.

  Further, the slot machine 1 is provided with a substantially horizontal operation panel 6 below the main display 4. The operation panel 6 is provided with a coin insertion slot 7, a bill insertion slot 8, a spin switch 9, a 1 BET switch 10, and a maximum BET switch 11.

  The coin insertion slot 7 is provided for the player to insert coins for betting on the game, and has an inserted coin sensor 7a (see FIG. 7) that outputs a signal indicating the coin insertion. Moreover, the banknote insertion port 8 is provided in order for a player to insert a banknote, and has a banknote insertion sensor 8a (see FIG. 7) that outputs a signal indicating insertion of a banknote. The spin switch 9 is used to start variable display of symbols by rotation of the reels 5L, 5C, 5R in the symbol display areas 21L, 21C, 21R, that is, for the player to perform an operation for starting a slot game. Is provided. The 1BET switch 10 is provided for performing a setting for betting one coin by one operation. The maximum BET switch 11 is provided for performing a setting for betting the maximum number of coins that can be bet on one game by one operation.

  Further, in the slot machine 1, the speaker 12L, 12R, the coin payout opening 13 located between the speakers 12L, 12R, and the payout opening 13 are paid out at the bottom of the housing 2. A coin receiving portion 14 for receiving coins is provided.

(Explanation about each display)
As shown in FIG. 2, the main display 4 has symbol display areas 21L, 21C, and 21R, window frame display areas 22L, 22C, and 22R, and an effect display area 4a. The display content of the main display 4 changes according to the variable display mode, the stop mode, and the operation content of the slot machine 1 of each reel 5L, 5C, 5R.

  The symbol display areas 21L, 21C, and 21R are areas corresponding to the reels 5L, 5C, and 5R, and are areas for displaying the symbols drawn on the reels 5L, 5C, and 5R so as to be visible. The symbol display areas 21L, 21C, and 21R include reels 5L, 5C, and 5R that are being scrolled by the player when the corresponding reels 5L, 5C, and 5R are in a rotating state and when the rotation is stopped. A transparent display is made to make it possible to visually recognize the pattern drawn on the screen.

  The window frame display areas 22L, 22C, and 22R are provided so as to surround the corresponding symbol display areas 21L, 21C, and 21R, and function as display windows for the symbols drawn on the reels 5L, 5C, and 5R.

  The effect display area 4a displays an effect for increasing the interest of the player and information for the player to advance the game advantageously.

  The display content of the sub-display 3 changes according to the operation content of the slot machine 1.

(Reel configuration)
Next, the configuration of the reels 5L, 5C, 5R will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 3 is a front view showing the configuration of each reel. FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing one of the reels shown in FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the reels 5L, 5C, and 5R are arranged in a horizontal row and are freely rotatable. As shown in FIG. 4, the reel 5 </ b> L is a cylindrical frame formed by arranging two annular frames 23, 24 having the same shape at predetermined intervals and connecting the annular frames 23, 24 with a plurality of connecting members 25. Have. The reel 5L has a transmission member 26 that transmits the driving force of the stepping motor M1 (see FIG. 7) disposed at the center of the cylindrical frame to the annular frames 23 and 24, and covers the connecting member 25. Thus, a reel sheet (not shown) on which a plurality of symbols is drawn is mounted on the side surface portion. The reels 5C and 5R have the same configuration.

  On the reel sheet, symbol rows R1 to R3 in which a plurality of symbols corresponding to the stop table 90 shown in FIG. 12 are arranged in the circumferential direction of the reel are respectively drawn corresponding to the reels 5L, 5C, 5R. Yes. FIG. 12 shows the contents of a stop table 90 which will be described later. With reference to FIG. 12, the symbol rows R1 to R3 drawn on the reels 5L, 5C and 5R will be described. Symbol rows R1 to R3 are drawn on the reels 5L, 5C, and 5R, respectively. In the symbol rows R1 to R3, a plurality of symbols are drawn in the order shown in the columns R1 to R3 in FIG. In each of the symbol rows R1 to R3, the largest payout (for example, 1199 coins are paid out) in the slot machine 1 according to the present embodiment by being stopped and displayed on the activated pay line L1. A high payout symbol W1 (first high payout symbol) indicating that the payout is awarded and a high payout symbol W1 that is smaller than the high payout symbol W1 when stopped on the pay line L1 that is valid. Next, a high payout symbol W2 (second high payout symbol) indicating that the next largest payout (for example, 300 coins will be paid out) and a valid pay line L1 are stopped and displayed. Includes a blank symbol W3 indicating that no dividend is awarded. Each symbol row R1 to R3 has a three-continuous arrangement structure in which the high payout symbol W1 and the high payout symbol W2 are arranged adjacent to the blank symbol. When both of the high payout symbol W1 and the high payout symbol W2 are stopped and displayed on the activated pay line L1, it is smaller than the high payout symbol W2 but next to the high payout symbol W2. A dividend (for example, 200 coins are paid out) is awarded.

  Here, the high payout symbol W1 is a symbol including the number “7” as a symbol and the flame symbol W11 drawn behind the symbol, and is drawn approximately three times larger than the other symbols. . In the high payout symbol W1, the upper end and the lower end of the flame symbol W11 are drawn so as to slightly protrude from the adjacent blank symbol W3. The high payout symbol W2 is a symbol on which the numeral “7” is drawn as a symbol. Furthermore, the blank symbol W3 is a symbol configured by a blank display unit that displays nothing as a symbol. When the high payout symbol W1 is stopped and displayed on the winning line L1, only the high payout symbol W1 is displayed as shown in FIG. 2 because the high payout symbol W1 is larger than the other symbols. The Rukoto. On the other hand, when symbols other than the high payout symbol W1 are stopped and displayed, for example, as shown in FIG. 14, three symbols are displayed vertically in the symbol display area 21R (the symbol display areas 21L, 21L, The same applies to 21C).

(Description of liquid crystal display device)
Next, the liquid crystal display device 31 constituting the main display 4 will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing a schematic configuration of the liquid crystal display device viewed from the back side of the housing. FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view of a part of the liquid crystal display device.

  The liquid crystal display device 31 is provided on the front side of the reels 5L, 5C, 5R at a predetermined interval across the reels 5L, 5C, 5R. The liquid crystal display device 31 includes a protective glass 32 and a display plate 33 having translucency, a liquid crystal panel 34, a light guide plate 35, a reflective film 36, fluorescent lamps 37a, 37b, 38a, 38b that are white light sources, It has a flexible substrate (not shown) made of a table carrier package (TCP) on which a driving IC for the liquid crystal panel 34 is mounted, connected to the terminal portion of the liquid crystal panel 34.

  In the liquid crystal panel 34, symbol display areas 21L, 21C, and 21R are formed. On the liquid crystal panel 34, the symbols drawn on the reels 5L, 5C, 5R can be visually recognized through the symbol display areas 21L, 21C, 21R, and the variable display and stop display of each reel 5L, 5C, 5R can be visually recognized. Display games can be played. The light guide plate 35 has transparency, is disposed on the back side of the liquid crystal panel 34, and is provided to guide light from the fluorescent lamps 37a and 37b to the liquid crystal panel 34.

  The reflection film 36 is provided to reflect the light introduced into the light guide plate 35 toward the surface side of the light guide plate 35. The reflective film 36 includes a reflective area 36A and non-reflective areas 36BL, 36BC, and 36BR. The reflection area 36A reflects incident light, and operates as illumination means for areas corresponding to the window frame display areas 22L, 22C, 22R and the effect display area 4a, among the areas of the liquid crystal panel 34. The non-reflective areas 36BL, 36BC, and 36BR are formed corresponding to the symbol display areas 21L, 21C, and 21R, and are disposed in front of the stop symbols that are displayed when the reels 5L, 5C, and 5R stop rotating. ing.

  The fluorescent lamps 37a and 37b generate light to be introduced into the light guide plate 35, and serve as illumination means for the areas corresponding to the window frame display areas 22L, 22C and 22R and the effect display area 4a in the liquid crystal panel 34. Operate. The fluorescent lamps 38a and 38b operate as an illuminating means for symbols arranged on the reels 5L, 5C and 5R and an illuminating means for areas corresponding to the symbol display areas 21L, 21C and 21R in the reflective film 36.

(Internal configuration of slot machine)
FIG. 7 is a block diagram of the slot machine 1 mainly showing the internal configuration. The slot machine 1 has a plurality of components centering on the control board 41. The control board 41 includes a microcomputer 42, a random number generator 43, a sampling circuit 44, a clock pulse generation circuit 45, and a frequency divider 46.

  The microcomputer 42 includes a central processing unit (CPU) 47, a random access memory (RAM) 48, and a read only memory (ROM) 49. The CPU 47 operates as symbol determination means and symbol display control means according to the present invention in accordance with a program stored in the ROM 49, while inputting / outputting signals to / from other components via the I / O port 50. The operation of the entire machine 1 is controlled. The RAM 48 stores data and programs used when the CPU 47 operates. That is, for example, the random number value sampled by the sampling circuit 44 to be described later is temporarily held in the RAM 48 after the game is started, and the code numbers of the reels 5L, 5C, and 5R are stored. The ROM 49 stores a program executed by the CPU 47 and permanent data.

  The random number generator 43 operates according to an instruction from the CPU 47 and generates a certain range of random numbers. The sampling circuit 44 extracts an arbitrary random number from random numbers generated by the random number generator 43 in accordance with an instruction from the CPU 47 and inputs the extracted random number to the CPU 47. The clock pulse generation circuit 45 generates a reference clock for operating the CPU 47, and the frequency divider 46 inputs a signal obtained by dividing the reference clock at a constant period to the CPU 47.

  Further, the control board 41 has a hopper drive circuit 51, a payout completion signal circuit 52, a sound control circuit 53, and an image control circuit 54.

  The hopper drive circuit 51 drives the hopper 55 according to the control of the CPU 47. The hopper 55 performs an operation for paying out coins, and pays out coins from the payout exit 13.

  The payout completion signal circuit 52 inputs coin number value data from the connected coin detector 56, and outputs a signal notifying completion of coin payout when the number value reaches a set number value. Input to the CPU 47. The coin detection unit 56 measures the number of coins paid out by the hopper 55 and inputs data of the measured number value to the payout completion signal circuit 52.

  The sound control circuit 53 receives an instruction from the CPU 47, controls a sound signal for outputting sound from the speakers 12L and 12R, and outputs sound from the speakers 12L and 12R. Thus, for example, a sound for exciting the game is output from the speakers 12L and 12R at an appropriate time after the game is started.

  The image control circuit 54 controls image display on each of the sub display 3 and the main display 4. As shown in FIG. 8, the image control circuit 54 includes an image control CPU 54a, a work RAM 54b, a program ROM 54c, an image ROM 54d, a video RAM 54e, and a VDP (Video Display Processor) 54f.

  Based on the parameters set by the microcomputer 42, the image control CPU 54 a follows the image control program (related to the display on the sub display 3 and the main display 4) stored in advance in the program ROM 54 c and applies to the sub display 3 and the main display 4. Determine the image to be displayed. The work RAM 54b is configured as a temporary storage unit when the image control CPU 54a executes the image control program. The program ROM 54c stores an image control program, various selection tables, and the like. The image ROM 54d stores dot data for forming an image. The video RAM 54e is configured as a temporary storage unit when an image is formed by the VDP 54f. The VDP 54f has a control RAM 54g, forms images according to the display contents of the sub display 3 and the main display 4 determined by the image control CPU 54a, and outputs the formed images to the sub display 3 and the main display 4. To display.

  The reel drive unit 57 inputs drive signals to a reel position detection circuit 59 that detects the positions of the reels 5L, 5C, and 5R and motors M1, M2, and M3 for rotating the reels 5L, 5C, and 5R. A motor drive circuit 60 is provided. When the drive signal is input from the motor drive circuit 60, the motors M1, M2, and M3 are operated to rotate the reels 5L, 5C, and 5R, respectively.

  Further, the inserted coin sensor 7a, the inserted bill sensor 8a, the spin switch 9, the 1BET switch 10, and the maximum BET switch 11 are connected to the control board 41, and a signal is input to the control board 41 from each of them. ing.

(Operation contents of slot machine)
Next, the operation content of the slot machine 1 having the above configuration will be described with reference to the flowcharts shown in FIGS. FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing an operation procedure of main processing from the start to the end of the game in the slot machine according to the present embodiment. FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the operation procedure of the lottery process. FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing the operation procedure of the normal game process. 9 to 11, the step is abbreviated as S.

  When the slot machine 1 starts the main process shown in FIG. 9, the start acceptance process, the lottery process, and the base game process are sequentially performed in steps 1 to 3, and the main process ends. Details of each block will be described below.

  First, the process proceeds to step 1 where start acceptance processing is performed. That is, the player inserts a desired number of coins into the coin insertion slot 7 and operates the 1 BET switch 10 or the maximum BET switch 11 when credits remain. Subsequently, operations of the spin switch 9 (hereinafter, these operations are referred to as “start operations”) are performed. With this start operation, a start signal is input from the spin switch 9 to the CPU 47.

  Next, it progresses to step 2 and a lottery process is performed. When the lottery process is performed, the process proceeds to step 11 shown in FIG. 10, and the symbol determination process is performed by the CPU 47. In this symbol determination process, the CPU 47 operates as symbol determination means in response to the input of the start signal, and determines the symbol (stop symbol) to be stopped and displayed on the winning line L1 for each reel 5L, 5C, 5R. During this lottery process, the CPU 47 may instruct the image control circuit 54 to cause the sub display 3 and the main display 4 to display a game.

  In this lottery process, when the CPU 47 detects the start operation of the player by the start signal from the spin switch 9, the CPU 47 instructs the random number generator 43 in response to the detection (that is, triggered by the start of the slot game). Then, random numbers within a certain range (0 to 254 in this embodiment) are generated. Further, the CPU 47 instructs the sampling circuit 44 to extract an arbitrary random number from the random numbers generated by the random number generator 43. When the random number is extracted by the sampling circuit 44, the CPU 47 sets the random number as a search key, and associates the stop symbol determination table (the code number of the symbol with the random number) shown in FIG. The stored code) 91 is referred to, and the code number of the corresponding symbol is obtained (in FIG. 13, the random number range is partially omitted). Here, as shown in FIG. 13, the stop symbol determination table 91 stores a symbol code number area 91b for storing a symbol code number and a random number in the range of 0 to 254 associated with the symbol code number. And a random number area 91a. That is, the probability that a certain symbol is stopped and displayed on the winning line L1 as a stopped symbol is determined by the range of random numbers associated with the code number of the symbol.

  Next, the acquired code number is set as a search key, and referring to the stop table 90 shown in FIG. 12, each of the reels 5L, 5C, 5R is stopped and displayed on the winning line L1 when stopped. Search for (stop symbol). Here, as shown in FIG. 12, the stop table 90 is a table having a code number area 90a for storing a code number of a symbol and a symbol area 90b for storing a symbol corresponding to each code number. By searching the code number area by setting the code number as a search key, the corresponding symbols can be searched for each reel 5L, 5C, 5R. In the symbol area 90b, the symbols corresponding to the symbol rows R1 to R3 drawn on the reel sheets mounted on the reels 5L, 5C, and 5R are registered so as to correspond to the code numbers on a one-to-one basis. Has been. For example, C1 in FIG. 12 indicates a symbol combination consisting of symbols when the acquired code numbers are all “0” for the reels 5L, 5C, and 5R.

  In the slot machine 1, the random number lottery and the search of the stop symbol determination table 91 and the stop table 90 are performed a total of three times for each of the reels 5L, 5C, and 5R. That is, the search of each table 90, 91 is performed as many times as the number of reels. When a stop symbol is determined for each reel 5L, 5C, 5R, a reel stop position for stopping the symbol on the winning line L1 is determined.

  When the reel stop position is determined, the process proceeds to a winning determination process in step 12 where the CPU 47 associates with a winning determination table (not shown) stored in the ROM 49 (a combination of code numbers (hereinafter referred to as “code number pattern”)). Thus, the code number pattern is used to determine whether a winning is possible or not, with reference to a table in which a combination of winning symbols and a combination of symbols not winning (no winning) are registered. Subsequently, the CPU 47 refers to a mode table (not shown) stored in the ROM 49, and determines a winning mode when winning (“winning mode” is also referred to as “combination”). The mode table is for determining the mode (winning mode) during winning, and the payout corresponding to each winning mode is registered.

  Next, when the routine proceeds to step 3 and the normal game process is started, a slot game is performed. At this time, the process proceeds to step 21 shown in FIG. 11 to execute the rotation process. That is, the CPU 47 instructs the motor drive circuit 60 to operate the motors M1, M2, and M3. Then, the reels 5L, 5C, 5R rotate at a constant speed for a certain time. Next, the process proceeds to step 22 to perform stop control processing, and the CPU 47 operates as the symbol display control means of the present invention, and the stop symbol determined by the symbol determination processing in step 11 appears on the winning line L1 and is stopped. The motor drive circuit 60 is instructed to stop the reels 5L, 5C, 5R in this order (in order of left, middle, and right). Since the slot machine 1 has three reels 5L, 5C, and 5R, the stop position of each reel 5L, 5C, and 5R is determined three times (determination of symbols to be stopped on the winning line L1). Then, the process proceeds to the payout process of step 23, and if it is determined that the winning is determined by the winning determination process of step 12, the CPU 47 instructs the hopper driving circuit 51 to drive the hopper 55, and a payout according to the winning mode. After the number of coins are paid out, the main process ends.

  As described above, in this embodiment, the symbol rows R1 to R3 including the high payout symbols W1, W2 and the blank symbol W3 are drawn on the reel sheets mounted on the reels 5L, 5C, 5R, respectively. The payout symbol W1 and the high payout symbol W2 are both arranged in a three-continuous arrangement so as to be adjacent to the blank symbol W3. Therefore, for example, as shown in FIG. 14, even if one of the high payout symbol W1 or the high payout symbol W2 deviates from the active line, the other of the high payout symbol W1 or the high payout symbol W2 is likely to be stopped and displayed on the active line. Even if the stop display is not performed, either the high payout symbol W1 or the high payout symbol W2 is arranged near the active line so that it can be easily seen. Moreover, since the blank symbol W3 is arranged between the high payout symbol W1 and the high payout symbol W2, when the blank symbol W3 is stopped and displayed on the active line, it is high if it is stopped and displayed one more time. It has become possible to make players feel unfortunate even though they have been able to get a dividend (the blank design W3 can be used as a “disappointment” that makes players feel sorry. It ’s like that) As a result, the player can continue to have a willingness to obtain a high payout and can perform variable display games by the slot machine 1, thereby improving the game playability of the variable display game. In the present embodiment, in the high payout symbol W1, the upper and lower ends of the flame symbol are drawn so as to slightly protrude from the adjacent blank symbols, so that the blank symbol W3 is stopped and displayed on the active line. The upper end or lower end of the flame, which is the pattern of the high payout symbol W1, is stopped and displayed near the active line (see FIG. 14). Therefore, it is possible to give the player a feeling that the high payout may have been obtained a little more, and to have a further expectation for the subsequent variable display game.

  In this embodiment, since the high payout symbol W1 is displayed larger than the high payout symbol W2, since the high payout symbol W1 is highlighted, the greatest profit is obtained when the high payout symbol W1 is aligned with the active line. Can be easily recognized by the player.

  Next, a modification of the slot machine 1 according to the above-described embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 15 and 16. The slot machine 100 according to the modified example is a video slot machine that does not include the reel unit 5, and includes variable display units 105L, 105C, and 105R that display variable display images of a plurality of symbols, and each of the variable display units 105L and 105C. , 105R is different from the slot machine 1 according to the above-described embodiment in that a variable display game can be performed using a variable display image. Below, it demonstrates centering on the difference, and abbreviate | omits or simplifies description about a common point.

  The slot machine 100 has a main display 4 as image display means in the present invention, and the main display 4 has variable display portions 105L, 105C, and 105R that display variable display images of a plurality of symbols. Yes. In the main display 4, whether or not a plurality of symbols moves from the top to the bottom in the order shown in R <b> 1 to R <b> 3 of the stop table 90 shown in FIG. 12 on each of the variable display portions 105 </ b> L, 105 </ b> C, 105 </ b> R. Such a scroll display image (a reel image displayed as if a mechanical reel is rotating) is displayed. Therefore, also in the slot machine 100 according to the modified example, the three consecutive arrangement display is performed in which the high payout symbol W1 and the high payout symbol W2 are displayed so as to be arranged adjacent to the blank symbol W3.

  The slot machine 100 has a plurality of components centering on the control board 41. The control board 41 has an image control circuit 54 as one of a plurality of components. The image control circuit 54 controls the image display of the main display 4 to display various images such as variable display images of a plurality of symbols on the main display 4.

  Next, the operation content of the slot machine 100 will be described with reference to the flowcharts shown in FIGS. In the slot machine 100, when the main process shown in FIG. 9 is started, the start acceptance process, the lottery process, and the base game process in steps 1 to 3 are performed as in the slot machine 1 described above. In FIG. 17, step is abbreviated as S.

  When the normal game process of step 3 is started, the process proceeds to step 31 shown in FIG. 17 and the scroll process is performed. Here, the variable display sections 105L, 105C, and 105R are displayed on the main display 4, and the CPU 47 instructs the variable display sections 105L, 105C, and 105R to the image control circuit 54 to scroll a plurality of symbols. A display image is displayed. Subsequently, the process proceeds to step 32, where the stop control process is performed, and the variable symbols 105L, 105C are displayed for the stop symbol corresponding to the result of the lottery process in step 2 shown in FIG. 9 while gradually decreasing the scrolling speed. , 105R. Then, in the next step 33, when winning, coins are paid out according to the winning mode, and the base game process is ended.

  As mentioned above, although preferred embodiment and the modification of this invention were demonstrated in detail, this invention is not limited to above-described embodiment and modification. For example, in the present embodiment, the high payout symbol W1 and the high payout symbol W2 are arranged adjacent to the blank symbol W3 in each of the symbol rows R1 to R3 drawn on the reel sheets mounted on the reels 5L, 5C, and 5R. However, it is only necessary that at least the specific symbol sequence to be stopped last among the symbol sequences R1 to R3 has the three consecutive configuration structure. More preferably, the symbol row R3 (rightmost symbol row) attached to the reel 5R arranged on the rightmost side at least toward the slot machine 1 may have a triple arrangement structure. The symbol rows R1 and R2 do not have to be a three-continuous arrangement structure. In the slot machine 1, the symbol stop display is finally performed in the symbol row R3 attached to the reel 5R, and the player plays the variable display game while paying the most attention to the symbol stopped and displayed in the rightmost symbol row. Since it performs, the function by a three continuous arrangement structure can be exhibited more effectively.

  Also, in the slot machine 100 having pseudo reels in the modified example, the high payout symbol W1 and the high payout symbol W2 are both at least in the specific variable display portion that is stopped and displayed at the end among the variable display portions 105L, 105C, and 105R. It is good to perform the 3 continuous arrangement | positioning display displayed so that it may arrange | position adjacent to the blank symbol W3. More preferably, at least the variable display unit 105R (the rightmost variable display unit) arranged on the rightmost side toward the slot machine 100 may be displayed in three consecutive arrangements, and the other variable display units 105L and 105C may be displayed. Does not have to display three continuous arrangements.

  In this embodiment, the slot machine 1 has the reel units 5 in which the reels 5L, 5C, and 5R are arranged in a horizontal row. However, as shown in FIG. 18, the reels 205T, 205C, and 205B are provided. May have reel units 205 arranged in a vertical row. Also at this time, it is only necessary to have a three-continuous arrangement structure in at least the specific symbol sequence to be stopped last among the symbol sequences respectively drawn on the reel sheets mounted on the reels 205T, 205C, and 205B.

  In this embodiment, the highest payout is awarded when the high payout symbol W1 is stopped and displayed on the winning line L1, but the present invention is not limited to this, and the high payout symbol W1 is displayed in the winning line. In addition to being awarded the largest payout when all of them are stopped on L1, from the normal game mode in which a normal slot game can be performed, for example, a predetermined number of free spins (new coins related to the game) A special game mode such as a free game in which the reels 5L, 5C, 5R automatically rotate without being inserted, stop after a certain period of time, and perform a coin payout according to the combination of the stopped symbols) You may make it transfer to. That is, after the normal game process in step 3 shown in FIG. 9 is completed, the CPU 47 establishes a free game trigger depending on whether or not the high payout symbol W1 is a code number pattern that is stopped and displayed on the pay line L1. It is good also as a structure which determines the propriety of this and transfers to a special game mode, when the trigger is materialized. In this way, the player can obtain a high payout when the high payout symbol W1 is aligned, and can enjoy a free game and the like, so that the gameability by the slot machine 1 can be improved.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing an overall configuration of the slot machine according to the present embodiment. FIG. 2 is a front view showing a main display of the slot machine shown in FIG. 1. It is a front view which shows the structure of each reel. FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing one of the reels shown in FIG. 3. It is a perspective view which shows schematic structure of the liquid crystal display device seen from the back side of the housing | casing. It is a disassembled perspective view of a part of liquid crystal display device. FIG. 4 is a block diagram mainly showing an internal configuration of the slot machine according to the present embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows an image control circuit. 21 is a flowchart showing an operation procedure of main processing from the start to the end of the game in the slot machine according to the present embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the operation | movement procedure of a lottery process. It is a flowchart which shows the operation | movement procedure of a normal game process. It is a figure which shows an example of the content of a stop table. It is a figure which shows an example of the content of the stop symbol determination table. It is a front view of the main display which shows the state by which the blank symbol was stopped and displayed on the winning line. FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing an overall configuration of a slot machine according to a modified example. It is a block diagram centering on the internal structure of the slot machine which concerns on a modification. It is a flowchart which shows the operation | movement procedure of the normal game process in a modification. It is a front view which shows the structure of each reel in another modification.

Explanation of symbols

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1,100 ... Slot machine, 4 ... Main display, 5,205 ... Reel unit, 5L, 5C, 5R, 105L, 105C, 105R, 205T, 205C, 205B ... Reel, 47 ... CPU, L1 ... Winning line, R1- R3 ... symbol row, W1, W2 ... high payout symbol, W3 ... blank symbol.

Claims (7)

Variable display means for variably displaying a plurality of symbols, and among the plurality of symbols for which the variable display is performed, symbol determining means for determining a stop symbol to be stopped and displayed on an effective line for determining whether or not a winning is possible, A symbol display control means for stopping and displaying the stop symbol determined by the symbol determining means on the effective line, and performing variable display games by variable display and stop display of the plurality of symbols, and according to the stop symbol A game machine that pays out dividends,
The variable display means has a different pattern, a first high payout symbol indicating the highest payout among the plurality of symbols, and a first high payout symbol next to the first high payout symbol. 2. A gaming machine characterized in that two high payout symbols have a three-continuous arrangement structure arranged adjacent to a blank symbol constituted by a blank display portion on which no symbol is displayed.   The variable display means includes a plurality of symbol rows in which the plurality of symbols are variably displayed and arranged in a row, and the three consecutive symbols in the specific symbol sequence that is stopped and displayed at least last among the plurality of symbol rows. The gaming machine according to claim 1, further comprising an arrangement structure.   The gaming machine according to claim 2, wherein the plurality of symbol rows are arranged side by side, and the specific symbol row is arranged on the rightmost side. An image display unit having a variable display unit for displaying a variable display image of a plurality of symbols, and a stop on an effective line for determining whether or not each variable display unit of the image display unit is winning among the plurality of symbols A symbol determining unit for determining the symbol to be displayed; and a symbol display control unit for stopping and displaying the stop symbol determined by the symbol determining unit on the effective line, and the variable display and stop display of the plurality of symbols. A game machine that performs a variable display game according to and pays out a payout according to the stop symbol,
The image display means has a different pattern, a first high payout symbol indicating the highest payout among the plurality of symbols, and a first high payout symbol next to the first high payout symbol. 3. A gaming machine that performs a three-continuous arrangement display in which two high payout symbols are displayed so as to be arranged adjacent to a blank symbol constituted by a blank display portion on which no symbol is displayed.   The image display means performs the three-continuous arrangement display on a specific variable display unit that displays the variable display units in a line and stops at least last among the plurality of variable display units. The gaming machine according to claim 4.   The gaming machine according to claim 5, wherein the plurality of variable display portions are arranged side by side, and the specific variable display portion is arranged on the rightmost side.   At least one of the first and second high payout symbols is displayed larger than the other symbols excluding the first and second high payout symbols among the plurality of symbols. The gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

Images