JP2007222507A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine which enables players to easily and accurately grasp the timing of the forced stop press operation of and achieves a greater attractiveness of games by fusing the aid to the forced stop press operation and performance. <P>SOLUTION: The game machine is provided with an index image display means which enables the display of an index imaged serving as an index for the operation timing of a stop command means that enables the turning of a stop mode of the identifying information trains turned to the specified identifying information to be matched respectively with a plurality of identifying information trains and an index image display control means disposed in the index image display means to control the display of the index images. When the specified requirements are met, the index image display control means works to display the index images respectively matched with the plurality of identifying information trains at the operation timing of the stop command means that enables the turning of any stop mode of the plurality of identifying information trains to the specified identifying information. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2007,JPO&INPIT

Description

The present invention relates to a gaming machine such as a pachislot gaming device, for example.

In general, a pachislot gaming device is provided with three reels side by side with symbols as a plurality of types of identification information drawn on the outer peripheral surface. When the start lever is operated on the condition that the medal is inserted, each reel starts to rotate, and the symbols drawn on the outer peripheral surface of each reel are displayed in a variable manner. When a stop button corresponding to each reel is operated from this state, each reel stops. After all reels have been stopped by such an operation, if the combination of symbols stopped on the winning line that is valid corresponding to the number of medals inserted constitutes a specific winning mode, the player will benefit. Is granted. The profit given to the player is called, for example, a profit that a medal as a prize is paid out according to a winning mode, or BB (Big Bonus) or RB (Regular Bonus), and is compared with a normal game. For example, there is a profit that enables a special game that can earn more medals.

Therefore, the player can enjoy the game in the pachislot gaming device by operating the stop button so that the combination of the three pieces of identification information constitutes a specific winning mode. As described above, the operation of the stop button for configuring a specific winning mode is generally referred to as “pressing”. However, since the identification information is variably displayed at a high speed while the reel is rotating, not all players can perform the pushing operation. That is, a player who is excellent in moving visual acuity and skilled in gaming can perform the pushing operation, but it is difficult for a beginner who is not skilled in gaming to perform the pushing operation. Therefore, as a conventional pachislot gaming device, for example, a pachislot gaming device (for example, a pachislot gaming device in which some symbols (pictures) are displayed in advance on the liquid crystal display unit provided in the vicinity of the display window prior to the display of each reel. In addition, there is a pachislot gaming device in which a second display window is provided in the upper part of the area to be determined for winning and the player can visually recognize the reel with a margin (for example, patents). Reference 2).

JP-A-11-47351 JP 2002-165923 A

However, in the pachislot gaming device described in Patent Document 1, the image displayed on the liquid crystal display unit is only displayed to assist the player's eye-catching, and has nothing to do with effects, There was a problem that it was monotonous and uninteresting for the player. In addition, the pachislot gaming device described in Patent Document 2 also has a second display window just above the area that is the target of winning determination, and is monotonous and not interesting for the player. There was a point.

The present invention has been made in view of the above-described problems, and the object thereof is to enable the player to easily and reliably grasp the timing of the eye-pressing operation, and further, the assistance of the eye-operating operation and the production are integrated. It is to provide a gaming machine rich in the fun of playing games.

In order to achieve the above object, the present invention provides the following.
(1) Fluctuation display means for fluctuating and displaying a plurality of identification information strings composed of a plurality of identification information in a manner of moving in a predetermined direction;
Stop command means for outputting a stop command signal in response to an operation by the player;
Stop control means for stopping the fluctuation display of any one of the plurality of identification information sequences based on the detection of the stop command signal output from the stop command means;
When the stop mode of the plurality of identification information sequences stopped by the stop control means is a combination of specific identification information, a profit granting means for giving a profit to the player;
An indicator light lighting means capable of lighting an indicator light as an operation timing index of the stop command means capable of causing the stop mode of the identification information string to be the specific identification information in association with each of the plurality of identification information strings. When,
The indicator light lighting control means for controlling the indicator light lighting means to turn on the indicator light,
When the specific condition is not satisfied, the indicator light lighting control unit causes the indicator light associated with the plurality of identification information sequences to have the stop mode of each identification information sequence as the specific identification information. On the other hand, when the specific condition is satisfied, the indicator light associated with each of the plurality of identification information strings is set to one of the plurality of identification information strings. A gaming machine that is lit at an operation timing of the stop command means that can make one stop mode the specific identification information.

According to the invention of (1), since the indicator light that is an indicator of the timing of the eye pressing operation is turned on at the timing when the player performs the eye pressing operation, it is easy for the player to grasp the timing of the eye pressing operation. But you can play with peace of mind.
Further, during normal times (when a specific condition is not satisfied), one index light is turned on corresponding to one identification information string, whereas a plurality of index lights are identified under one specific condition. By illuminating corresponding to the information string, all the index lights are lit at a unified timing. As a result, when a specific condition occurs, the indicator light is lit in a manner different from that in the normal state, and it is possible to make the player feel fresh and unexpected and to play the game in one identification information string. Production that attracts the attention of the person.
Further, as compared to the case where all the identification information strings are displayed differently, the player can focus on the variable lighting of one identification information string, and it is easy to grasp the timing of the eye-opening. .
Furthermore, it is a kind of effect that a plurality of indicator lights are turned on in correspondence with one identification information sequence. For example, when winning a specific game, a plurality of indicator lights are associated with one identification information sequence. By associating with a winning rate for a specific game such as increasing the probability of lighting, it is possible to enhance the player's sense of expectation and excitement.
Note that the index light here includes light emitted from a light emitter, an image displayed on a liquid crystal display device, and the like.

Furthermore, the present invention provides the following.
(2) Fluctuation display means for fluctuating and displaying a plurality of identification information strings composed of a plurality of identification information in a manner of moving in a predetermined direction;
Stop command means for outputting a stop command signal in response to an operation by the player;
Stop control means for stopping the fluctuation display of any one of the plurality of identification information sequences based on the detection of the stop command signal output from the stop command means;
When the stop mode of the plurality of identification information sequences stopped by the stop control means is a combination of specific identification information, a profit granting means for giving a profit to the player;
Index image display means capable of displaying an index image as an index of operation timing of the stop command means capable of causing the stop mode of the identification information string to be the specific identification information in association with each of the plurality of identification information strings. When,
Index image display control means for performing control to display an index image on the index image display means,
When the specific condition is not satisfied, the index image display control unit causes the index image associated with the plurality of identification information sequences to have the stop mode of each identification information sequence as the specific identification information. While displaying at the operation timing of the stop command means to be obtained, if the specific condition is satisfied, an index image associated with each of the plurality of identification information strings, one of the plurality of identification information strings A gaming machine, wherein one stop mode is displayed at an operation timing of the stop command means that can be the specific identification information.

According to the invention of (2), since the index image serving as an index of the timing of the eye pressing operation is displayed at the timing when the player performs the eye pressing operation, it is easy for the player to grasp the timing of the eye pressing operation. You can play games with peace of mind.
Further, during normal times (when a specific condition is not satisfied), one index image is displayed corresponding to one identification information string, whereas a plurality of index images are displayed under a specific condition. By displaying in correspondence with the identification information sequence, all index images are displayed at a unified timing. As a result, when a specific condition occurs, the index image is displayed in a manner different from the normal time, and it is possible to make the player feel fresh and unexpected, and in one identification information string An effect that attracts the attention of the player can be performed.
Further, as compared with the case where all the identification information strings are displayed differently, the player can concentrate on the variable display of one identification information string, and it is easy to grasp the timing of the eye-opening. .
Furthermore, it is a kind of effect that a plurality of index images are displayed in correspondence with one identification information sequence. For example, when winning a specific game, a plurality of index images are associated with one identification information sequence. By associating with a winning rate for a specific game such as increasing the probability of display, it is possible to enhance the player's sense of expectation and excitement.

Furthermore, the present invention provides the following.
(3) The gaming machine of (2) above,
The index image display control means is configured to display the plurality of identification information sequences when the variation display of one identification information sequence is performed and the variation display of the remaining identification information sequences is stopped. The index image associated with each of the identification information strings is displayed at the operation timing of the stop command means that can make the stop mode of the one identification information string the specific identification information.

According to the invention of (3), all index images are displayed in accordance with the variation of the last identification information sequence in which the winning of a special game or the number of game media to be paid out is determined. As a result, all index images are displayed at a unified timing, which can increase the player's expectation and uplifting feeling, and produce an effect that attracts the player's attention to the identification information sequence that stops at the end. It can be carried out.

Furthermore, the present invention provides the following.
(4) The gaming machine of (2) above,
The stop control means, only when stopping the variable display of each identification information sequence in a specific stop order, when a predetermined start condition for the specific stop order game is established, Control that enables the stop mode to be a combination of specific identification information,
The index image display control means, when the start condition of the specific operation order game is satisfied, causes the index image associated with each of the plurality of identification information strings to be the next in the specific stop order. The stop order and the stop mode of the set identification information sequence are displayed at the operation timing of the stop command means that can be the predetermined identification information.

According to the invention of (4), when a game in which a combination of symbols stopped on the winning line is in a specific winning mode occurs only when the identification information sequence is stopped in a specific order, it is stopped next. By displaying all the index images in accordance with the change of the identification information sequence to be increased, it is possible to enhance the player's expectation and uplifting feeling. Further, the display of the index image can be a criterion for determining which identification information string should be stopped next. Furthermore, the synergistic effect of the display of the game and the index image makes it possible to produce an effect that further increases the player's expectation.

Furthermore, the present invention provides the following.
(5) The gaming machine according to any one of (2) to (4) above,
The index image display control means performs control to display an index image on the index image display means only when a predetermined index image display condition is satisfied.

According to the invention of (5), since the index image is displayed only when the index image display condition is satisfied, it is possible to produce an effect that gives the player a sense of expectation depending on whether or not the index image is displayed. It becomes. In addition, when the effect image is displayed, the display area of the effect image can be secured by not displaying the index image.

Furthermore, the present invention provides the following.
(6) The gaming machine according to any one of (2) to (5) above,
A rotating reel in which the identification information sequence is arranged on the circumferential surface;
Front display means provided in front of the rotating reel and capable of displaying a screen image in a state where the identification information row located on the surface of the rotating reel can be seen through or shielded;
Display control means for performing control to display a screen image on the front display means,
The front display means transparently displays the rotating reel on which the identification information string is variably displayed, shields the rotating reel on which the variation display of the identification information string is stopped, and uses the shielded portion. The screen image is displayed.

According to the invention of (6), it is possible to enlarge a display area such as an effect screen by shielding the already stopped rotating reel with the front display means and displaying the screen image at the shielded portion. As a result, it is possible to solve the problem that the area for displaying effects and the like becomes narrower by displaying an image that assists the pressing of the conventional invention, and it is possible to display a wide variety of effect images. . In addition, this makes it possible to increase the player's expectation and uplifting feeling by spreading the variation of the production.

Furthermore, the present invention provides the following.
(7) The gaming machine according to any one of (2) to (5) above,
The variation display means is an image display means provided with an identification information sequence display area capable of displaying the plurality of identification information sequences,
The image display means displays another image in the identification information string display area in which the variation display of the identification information string is not performed.

According to the invention of (7), display of the already stopped identification information sequence is stopped, and a screen image is displayed at a location where the identification information sequence is displayed, thereby expanding a display area such as an effect screen. It becomes possible. As a result, it is possible to solve the problem that the area for displaying effects and the like becomes narrower by displaying an image that assists the pressing of the conventional invention, and it is possible to display a wide variety of effect images. . In addition, it is possible to further increase the player's expectation and uplifting feeling by spreading the variation of the production.

Furthermore, the present invention provides the following.
(8) The gaming machine according to (6) or (7) above,
The index image display control means displays an index image associated with the identification information string that is not subjected to variable display together with an image indicating the specific identification information.

According to the invention of (8), by displaying an image indicating the stop symbol of the identification information sequence that has become invisible or difficult for the player together with the index image, the player does not forget the stop symbol. Is possible. In addition, the variation of the effect spreads depending on the display mode of the image indicating the identification information of the effect content, thereby making it possible to further increase the player's sense of expectation and excitement.

According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a gaming machine that is capable of easily and surely grasping the timing of the eye-pushing operation, and that is rich in the entertainment of the game in which the assistance of the eye-pushing operation and the production are fused. it can.

The present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following, a case where the present invention is applied to a pachislot gaming device will be described as a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 1 is a perspective view schematically showing an example of a pachislot gaming apparatus according to the present invention.
In addition to coins, medals, tokens, and the like, the pachislot gaming device 1 can play a game using a game medium such as a card that is given to a player or stores information on the game value that is given. Although it is a gaming machine, in the following, it is assumed that a medal is used.

A liquid crystal display device 5 as a front display means and an index image display means is installed on the front surface of the housing 2 forming the entire pachislot gaming device 1. The liquid crystal display device 5 includes a transparent liquid crystal panel 34 (not shown). The transparent liquid crystal panel 34 can be partially or entirely switched to a transparent / non-transparent state. It is possible to display an effect image and an index image described later.

Further, on the back side of the liquid crystal display device 5, three rotary reels 3L, 3C, and 3R are provided as variable display means. Each of the three rotating reels 3L, 3C, and 3R has identification information such as a plurality of symbols displayed on its outer peripheral surface, and is provided in a horizontal row so as to be rotatable.
The identification information of each rotary reel 3L, 3C, 3R becomes visible when the transparent liquid crystal panel 34 becomes transparent. That is, the front display means (liquid crystal display device 5) provided in front of the fluctuation display means (rotary reels 3L, 3C, 3R) can see through a plurality of identification information (designs) displayed by the fluctuation display means. A screen image can be displayed.

A pedestal portion 10 having a horizontal surface is formed below the liquid crystal display device 5. A medal slot 22 is provided on the right side of the pedestal portion 10, and a 1-BET switch 11 is provided on the left side of the pedestal portion 10. And a maximum BET switch 13 is provided.

A stored medal settlement switch 14 is provided on the left side of the front portion of the pedestal 10 to switch the credit / payout of medals acquired by the player by a push operation.
When “payout” is selected by switching the stored medal settlement 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 unit 16. On the other hand, when “credit” is selected, the number of medals is stored as a credit in a memory (for example, a RAM 43 described later) provided in the pachislot gaming apparatus 1.

On the right side of the stored medal settlement switch 14, a start lever 6 for rotating the rotating reels 3L, 3C, 3R by a player's operation is rotatably attached within a predetermined angular range. The start lever 6 outputs a game start command signal in response to an operation by the player. Three stop buttons 7L, 7C, and 7R for stopping the rotation of the three rotary reels 3L, 3C, and 3R are provided at the center of the front surface of the pedestal unit 10, respectively. The stop button 7 (7L, 7C, 7R) functions as a stop command means for outputting a stop command signal in response to an operation by the player.

An enter button 26 and a cancel button 27 are provided on the right side of the front portion of the base 10. By operating the enter button 26 and the cancel button 27, the display screen of the liquid crystal display device 5 can be switched, an instruction can be input, and the like.
A door opening / closing / clamping release device 29 is further provided on the right side of the front surface of the pedestal 10, and the door opening / closing / clamping release device 29 is rotated to the right by using a predetermined key to rotate the front door. Open / close and turn counterclockwise to release the stop.

Speakers 21L and 21R are provided on the left and right above the housing 2. Between the two speakers 21L and 21R, a payout table panel 23 indicating a combination of winning symbols, a medal payout number, and the like is provided. ing.

2A and 2B are front views showing an example of a screen image displayed on the liquid crystal display device shown in FIG. 1 and the vicinity of the liquid crystal display device.
As shown in FIG. 2 (a), on the back side of the liquid crystal display device 5, there are three rotating reels 3 (3L, 3C, 3R) each having a plurality of identification information symbols drawn on the outer peripheral surface. It is provided in a horizontal row so as to be rotatable.

The liquid crystal display device 5 includes a front panel 31 and a transparent liquid crystal panel 34 (not shown) provided on the back surface of the front panel 31. The front panel 31 includes a transparent display window 31 a and a pattern formation region 31 b on which a pattern is drawn. A screen image displayed on the transparent liquid crystal panel 34 provided on the back surface of the front panel 31 is displayed on the front panel 31. Visible through the display window 31a.

The screen image shown in FIG. 2A is a screen image that is displayed when BB is internally won. An index image 93L is displayed on the upper portion of the rotating reel 3L. The indicator image 93L indicates that the stop button is being pressed with a finger.
The index image 93L is an image displayed when “7” is included in the symbol indicated by the rotating reel 3L, and disappears when “7” is not included in the symbol indicated by the rotating reel 3L. The player can stop the rotating reel 3L to include the symbol “7” by operating the stop button 7L while the index image 93L is displayed.
Similarly, when “7” is included in the symbol indicated by the rotating reels 3C and 3R, the index images 93C and 93R are displayed on the upper portions of the rotating reels 3C and 3R, respectively. In FIG. 2A, since the symbol indicated by the rotating reels 3C and 3R does not include “7”, the index images 93C and 93R are not displayed. That is, the three index images 93L, 93C, and 93R are associated with the rotating reels 3L, 3C, and 3R, respectively.

When two of the three rotating reels are stopped and there is a possibility of winning a BB depending on the stopping mode of the rotating reel that is rotating, the screen image shown in FIG. 2B is displayed.
In the screen image shown in FIG. 2B, index images 93L, 93C, and 93R are displayed. In the above state, the index images 93L, 93C, 93R are displayed when “7” is included in the symbol indicated by the rotating rotating reel, and disappear when “7” is not included. That is, the three index images 93L, 93C, and 93R perform display corresponding to the rotating reel 3 that is rotating regardless of the variation display of the corresponding rotating reels 3L, 3C, and 3R. Accordingly, the three index images 93 (93L, 93C, 93R) are all displayed at the same time and disappear at the same time. In this way, by displaying the index image 93 in a mode different from that before, it is possible to make the player feel fresh and unexpected.

Further, on the back side of the left side of the liquid crystal display device 5, a game start display lamp 25, a WIN lamp 17, a medal insertion lamp 24, various BET lamps 9c, a 2-BET lamp 9b, and a 1-BET lamp 9a, A payout number display unit 18, a medal stored number display unit 19, and various display units such as an accessory operation number display unit 20 are provided. In addition, in the pattern formation area 31b of the front panel 31, the front portions of the various lamps and the various display units described above are transparent so that the various lamps and the various display units can be visually recognized.

The 1-BET lamp 9a, the 2-BET lamp 9b, and the maximum BET lamp 9c are turned on according to the number of medals betted to play one game (hereinafter also referred to as BET number). One game ends when all the rotating reels are stopped, or when medals are paid out, when medals are paid out.

The WIN lamp 17 is turned on with a predetermined probability when BB (Big Bonus) or RB (Regular Bonus) is won internally, and also when a BB or RB winning is established. The game medal insertion lamp 24 blinks when the medal insertion is acceptable. The game start display lamp 25 is lit when at least one line is activated.

The number-of-payout display unit 18 displays the number of medals to be paid out when a winning is established, and the medal stored number display unit 19 displays the number of stored medals, and an accessory operation number display unit. 20 displays the number of possible RB games, the number of possible RB games, and the like. These display units consist of a 7-segment display.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view illustrating a schematic configuration of a liquid crystal display device included in the pachislot gaming apparatus illustrated in FIG. 1. 4 is a development view of a part of the configuration of the liquid crystal display device shown in FIG.
The liquid crystal display device 5 includes a front panel 31 composed of a protective glass 32 and a display plate 33, a transparent liquid crystal panel 34, a light guide plate 35, a reflective film 36, fluorescent lamps 37a, 37b, 38a, 38b, which are so-called white light sources, and a lamp holder. 39a to 39h, and a table carrier package (TCP) on which an IC for driving a transparent liquid crystal panel is mounted. The TCP is constituted by a flexible substrate (not shown) connected to a terminal portion of the transparent liquid crystal panel 34, or the like. .

The liquid crystal display device 5 is provided on the near side by rotating reels 3L, 3C, and 3R. The rotating reels 3L, 3C, 3R and the liquid crystal display device 5 are provided with a predetermined interval.

The protective glass 32 and the display board 33 are comprised with the transparent member. On the display board 33, patterns and the like are formed at positions corresponding to the BET lamps 9a to 9c. That is, the area where the pattern or the like of the display board 33 is formed is the pattern formation area 31b of the front panel 31, and the area where the pattern or the like of the display board 33 is not formed is the display window 31a of the front panel 31. (See FIG. 2). The entire surface of the front panel 31 may be used as the display window 31a without forming the pattern forming area 31b on the front panel 31. In this case, a pattern is not formed on the display board 33 or the display board 33 may be omitted.
Note that various lamps arranged on the back side of the display plate 33, electric circuits for operating the various display units, and the like are not shown.

The transparent liquid crystal panel 34 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 transparent liquid crystal panel 34 is set to normally white. The normally white is a configuration in which white display is performed (light transmitted to the display surface side is visible from the outside) in a state where the liquid crystal is not driven. By adopting a normally white transparent liquid crystal panel 34, even if a situation where the liquid crystal cannot be driven occurs, identification information such as symbols displayed on the rotating reels 3L, 3C, 3R The variable display and stop display can be visually recognized, and the game can be continued. That is, even when such a situation occurs, it is possible to play a game centered on the variation display mode and the stop display mode of the identification information displayed on the rotating reels 3L, 3C, 3R.

The light guide plate 35 is for guiding light from the fluorescent lamps 37a and 37b to the transparent liquid crystal panel 34 (illuminating the transparent liquid crystal panel 34), and is provided on the back side of the transparent liquid crystal panel 34. It is composed of a transparent member (having a light guiding function) such as an acrylic resin having a thickness.

The reflective film 36 is, for example, a white polyester film or an aluminum thin film formed with a silver vapor deposition film, and reflects light introduced into the light guide plate 35 toward the front side of the light guide plate 35. The reflective film 36 includes a reflective area 36A and a non-reflective area (transmissive area) 36B.

The fluorescent lamps 37a and 37b are disposed along the upper end and the lower end of the light guide plate 35, and both ends are supported by a lamp holder 39 (see FIG. 3). The light emitted from the fluorescent lamps 37a and 37b is reflected by the reflection area 36A of the reflection film 36 to illuminate the transparent liquid crystal panel 34.

The fluorescent lamps 38a and 38b are arranged toward the rotary reels 3L, 3C, and 3R at the upper position and the lower position on the back side of the reflective film 36, respectively. The light coming out of the fluorescent lamps 38a and 38b, reflected by the surfaces of the rotating reels 3L, 3C, and 3R and incident on the non-reflective region 36B illuminates the transparent liquid crystal panel 34.

Thus, in the liquid crystal display device 5, the light irradiated from the fluorescent lamps 37a and 37b and reflected from the reflection region 36A of the reflective film 36 and the fluorescent lamps 38a and 38b are irradiated, and the rotation reels 3L, 3C and 3R The light reflected from the surface and incident on the non-reflective region 36B illuminates the transparent liquid crystal panel 34.
Accordingly, the region of the liquid crystal display device 5 corresponding to the non-reflective region 36B of the reflective film 36 is a region that switches to a transparent / non-transparent state depending on whether or not the liquid crystal is driven. The region of the liquid crystal display device corresponding to is in a non-transparent state regardless of whether or not the liquid crystal is driven.

In the pachislot gaming device 1, only a part of the liquid crystal display device is a region that switches to a transparent / non-transparent state. In the gaming machine of the present invention, the display screen of the liquid crystal display device is entirely transparent. / A region that switches to a non-transparent state may be used. In this case, in the pachislot gaming device 1, when the entire area of the liquid crystal display device 5 is an area to be switched to the transmission state or the non-transmission state, the reflection film 36 is all set to the non-reflection area 36 </ b> B or the reflection film 36 is omitted. Good.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing an internal configuration of the pachislot gaming device shown in FIG.
The main control circuit 81 has a microcomputer 40 disposed on a circuit board as a main component. The microcomputer 40 includes a CPU 41 that performs a control operation according to a preset program, a ROM 42, and a RAM 43. Connected to the CPU 41 are a clock pulse generation circuit 144 and a frequency divider 145 for setting a reference clock pulse, and a random number generator 146 and a sampling circuit 147 for generating a random number to be sampled. In addition, as a means for random number sampling, you may comprise so that the sampling of a random number may be performed on the operation | movement program of CPU41.

The ROM 42 stores various control commands (commands) to be transmitted to the sub control circuit 82. As the command, for example, a command related to display control for the liquid crystal display device 5 is stored.

Examples of commands related to display control for the liquid crystal display device 5 include an effect start command, an end effect command, an index image display command, and the like.
The effect start command is a command for causing the liquid crystal display device 5 to display an effect image when the rotation of the three rotary reels 3 is started. The end effect command is a command for causing the liquid crystal display device 5 to display an effect image when all three rotary reels 3 are stopped. The index image display command is a command for causing the liquid crystal display device 5 to display the index image 93 (93L, 93C, 93R).
Also, commands relating to the setting or cancellation of RB and BB are also stored in the ROM 42, and the sub-control circuit 82 is notified of the setting or cancellation of RB or BB by this command. It should be noted that data indicating that RB or BB is being executed may be included in various commands relating to display control for liquid crystal display device 5 instead of commands relating to setting or canceling RB or BB.

Various commands as described above are called from the ROM 42 by the CPU 41 and set in the RAM 43 when the predetermined condition is satisfied. The command set in the RAM 43 is supplied to the sub control circuit 82 at a predetermined timing. The sub control circuit 82 executes various processes based on the supplied command.

The sub control circuit 82 does not input a command or the like to the main control circuit 81, and communication is performed in one direction from the main control circuit 81 to the sub control circuit 82. The ROM 42 stores a symbol table for associating the rotational positions of the rotary reels 3L, 3C, and 3R with symbols drawn on the outer peripheral surface of the rotary reel, and a combination of symbols for winning. In addition, a winning symbol combination table in which a winning medal payout number is associated with a winning determination code representing the winning, a lottery probability table necessary for performing a lottery for determining an internal winning combination, and the like are stored.
In addition to the above-described commands, the RAM 43 stores variables, flags, and the like related to game progress such as the number of credits corresponding to the number of medals.

Major peripheral devices (actuators) whose operations are controlled by control signals from the microcomputer 40 include various lamps (1-BET lamp 9a, 2-BET lamp 9b, maximum BET lamp 9c, WIN lamp 17, and game medal insertion. A lamp 24, a game start display lamp 25), various display units (payout number display unit 18, medal accumulated number display unit 19, and accessory operation number display unit 20), and medal are stored. There are a hopper (including a payout driving unit) 50 for paying out a predetermined number of medals, and stepping motors 59L, 59C, 59R for rotating the rotary reels 3L, 3C, 3R.

Further, a motor drive circuit 49 for driving and controlling the stepping motors 59L, 59C and 59R, a hopper drive circuit 51 for driving and controlling the hopper 50, a lamp driving circuit 55 for driving and controlling various lamps, and a display for driving and controlling various display units. The unit drive circuit 58 is connected to the output unit of the CPU 41 via the I / O port 48. Each of these drive circuits receives a control signal such as a drive command output from the CPU 41, and controls the operation of each actuator.

Further, as main input signal generating devices for generating an input signal necessary for the microcomputer 40 to generate a control command, a start switch 6S constituting the start lever 6, a 1-BET switch 11, a maximum BET switch 13, There are a stored medal settlement switch 14, a inserted medal sensor 22S, a reset switch 62, a setting key switch 63, a reel stop signal circuit 56, a reel position detection circuit 60, and a payout completion signal circuit 61. These are also connected to the CPU 41 via the I / O port 48.

The start switch 6S detects the operation of the start lever 6. The inserted medal sensor 22 </ b> S detects a medal inserted into the medal slot 22. The reel stop signal circuit 56 generates a stop command signal in response to an operation of each stop button 7L, 7C, 7R as stop command means. With these operations, the decision button 26 and the cancel button 27 can switch the display screen of the liquid crystal display device 5 and input an instruction.

The reel position detection circuit 60 receives the pulse signal from the reel rotation sensor and transmits a signal for detecting the position of each of the rotating reels 3L, 3C, 3R to the CPU 41.
The payout completion signal circuit 61 generates a medal payout completion signal when the count value of the medal detection unit 50S (the number of medals paid out from the hopper 50) reaches a designated number. When the CPU 41 receives this medal payout completion signal, the driving of the hopper 50 is stopped via the hopper drive circuit 51 to complete the payout of medals. The medal detection unit 50S includes a medal sensor including a physical sensor for detecting medals paid out from the hopper 50, and can count the number of medals paid out by the medal sensor.

In the circuit shown in FIG. 5, the random number generator 146 generates a random number belonging to a certain numerical range, and the sampling circuit 147 samples one random number at an appropriate timing after the start lever 6 is operated. . Based on the random numbers sampled in this way and the probability lottery table stored in the ROM 42, an internal winning combination is determined. After the internal winning combination is determined, random number sampling is performed again to select the “stop control table”.

After the rotation of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R is started, the number of drive pulses supplied to each of the stepping motors 59L, 59C, 59R is counted, and the counted value is written in a predetermined area of the RAM 43. From the reels 3L, 3C, 3R, reset pulses are obtained for each rotation, and these pulses are input to the CPU 41 via the reel position detection circuit 60. The count value of the drive pulse counted in the RAM 43 is cleared to “0” by the reset pulse thus obtained. As a result, the count value corresponding to the rotation position within one rotation range is stored in the RAM 43 for each of the rotation reels 3L, 3C, and 3R.

In order to associate the rotational positions of the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R as described above with the symbols drawn on the outer peripheral surface of the reel, a symbol table is stored in the ROM. In this symbol table, the code numbers sequentially given for each fixed rotation pitch of each of the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R with reference to the rotation position where the reset pulse is generated as described above are provided corresponding to each code number. A symbol code indicating the displayed symbol is associated with the symbol.

Furthermore, a winning symbol combination table is stored in the ROM 42. In this winning symbol combination table, a winning symbol combination, a winning medal dividend number, and a winning determination code representing the winning are associated with each other. The winning symbol combination table is referred to when the left reel 3L, the center reel 3C, and the right reel 3R are stopped and when a winning confirmation is made after all reels are stopped.

In the case of internal winning by lottery processing (probability lottery processing) based on the above random number sampling, the CPU 41 as the stop control means sends from the reel stop signal circuit 56 at the timing when the player operates the stop buttons 7L, 7C, 7R. A signal for controlling the stop of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R is sent to the motor drive circuit 49 based on the operation signal to be selected and the selected “stop control table”.

In the stop mode indicating that the winning combination of the internal winning combination is established, when “payout” is selected by switching the stored medal settlement switch 14, the CPU 41 as the profit granting means sends the payout command signal to the hopper drive circuit 51. And a predetermined number of medals are paid out from the hopper 50. At this time, the medal detection unit 50S counts the number of medals to be paid out from the hopper 50, and when the count value reaches a designated number, a medal payout completion signal is input to the CPU 41. As a result, the CPU 41 stops driving the hopper 50 via the hopper drive circuit 51 and ends the “medal payout process”.
On the other hand, when “credit” is selected by switching the stored medal settlement switch 14, the number of medals to be paid out is stored in the RAM 43 as credits.

A main control circuit 81 having a CPU 41 is connected to a sub control circuit 82 as index image display control means. The sub control circuit 82 performs display control of the liquid crystal display device 5 and sound output control from the speakers 21L and 21R based on a control command (command) from the main control circuit 81.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing a configuration of the sub control circuit shown in FIG.
In the present embodiment, the command is supplied from the main control circuit 81 to the sub-control circuit 82 and the signal cannot be supplied from the sub-control circuit 82 to the main control circuit 81. Not limited to this, the sub control circuit 82 may be configured to transmit a signal to the main control circuit 81.

The sub control circuit 82 includes a sub CPU 206, a program ROM 208, and a work RAM 210. In addition, the determination button 26 and the cancel button 27 are connected to the sub control circuit 82 via the interface circuit 240.

The sub-control circuit 82 includes a display control circuit 250 that performs display control in the liquid crystal display device 5, and a sound control circuit 230 that performs control related to sound generated from the speaker 21.

The sub CPU 206 has a function of executing various processes in accordance with programs stored in the program ROM 208, and controls the sub control circuit 82 in accordance with various commands supplied from the CPU 41. In particular, the sub CPU 206 performs display control for the display control circuit 250.

The program ROM 208 stores a program for controlling a game effect in the liquid crystal display device 5 by the sub CPU 206, and also stores various tables such as a table for making a decision regarding the effect. .
The program ROM 208 includes a plurality of types of effect patterns corresponding to the screen image displayed on the liquid crystal display device 5 and a plurality of screen images corresponding to the screen image displayed on the liquid crystal display device 5 when all the reels 3 are stopped. Types of end effect patterns are stored. The program ROM 208 stores a plurality of types of index patterns that indicate positions, modes, etc., for displaying index images.

In this embodiment, the program ROM 208 is used as a storage medium for storing programs, tables, and the like. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and any other storage medium can be used as long as it is a computer-readable storage medium. For example, it may be recorded on a storage medium such as a hard disk device, a CD-ROM, a DVD-ROM, or a ROM cartridge. Of course, what is stored in the program ROM 208 may be stored in the ROM 42. Further, these programs may not be recorded in advance, but may be downloaded after the power is turned on and recorded in the work RAM 210 or the like. Furthermore, each program may be recorded on a separate storage medium.

In the present embodiment, the main control circuit 81 including the CPU 41 and the ROM 42 and the sub control circuit 82 including the sub CPU 206 and the program ROM 208 are separately configured. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the main control including the CPU 41 and the ROM 42 is performed. Only the circuit 81 may be configured, and in this case, the program stored in the program ROM 208 described above may be stored in the ROM 42 and executed by the CPU 41. Of course, it may be configured only by the sub control circuit 82 including the sub CPU 206 and the program ROM 208. In this case, the program stored in the ROM 42 is stored in the program ROM 208 and executed by the sub CPU 206. You may comprise as follows.

The work RAM 210 has a function of storing various flags and variable values as a temporary storage area of the sub CPU 206. In the present embodiment, the work RAM 210 is used as a temporary storage area of the sub CPU 206, but the present invention is not limited thereto, and any readable / writable storage medium may be used.

The audio control circuit 230 includes a sound source IC 232 that controls audio, an audio data ROM 234 that stores various audio data, and an amplifier 236 (hereinafter referred to as AMP) for amplifying audio signals.

The sound source IC 232 is connected to the sub CPU 206, the audio data ROM 234, and the AMP 236. The sound source IC 232 controls sound generated from the speaker 21.

The sub CPU 206 selects one audio data from a plurality of audio data stored in the audio data ROM 234 based on the command supplied from the CPU 41. Thereafter, the sub CPU 206 reads the selected audio data from the audio data ROM 234 and supplies it to the sound source IC 232. The sound source IC 232 that has received the sound data converts the sound data into a predetermined sound signal and supplies the sound signal to the AMP 236. The AMP 236 amplifies the audio signal and generates audio from the speakers 21 (21L and 21R).

The display control circuit 250 performs control to generate a screen image according to the game result determined by the CPU 41 and to display the screen image on the liquid crystal display device 5, and is referred to as an image data processor (hereinafter referred to as VDP). 212), an image data ROM 216 for storing various image data, and a D / A converter 218 for converting the image data as an image signal. The VDP 212 is connected to a sub CPU 206, an image data ROM 216 in which image data is stored, and a D / A converter 218 that converts the image data into an image signal.

The VDP 212 includes various circuits such as a so-called sprite circuit, a screen circuit, and a pallet circuit, and can perform various processes for displaying a screen image on the liquid crystal display device 5. That is, the VDP 212 performs display control for the liquid crystal display device 5. Further, the VDP 212 includes a storage medium (for example, a video RAM) as a buffer for displaying a screen image on the transparent liquid crystal panel 34 of the liquid crystal display device 5. By storing the image data in a predetermined storage area of the storage medium, a screen image is displayed on the transparent liquid crystal panel 34 of the liquid crystal display device 5 at a predetermined timing.

The image data ROM 216 stores various images constituting a screen image displayed on the liquid crystal display device 5, for example, effect images such as background images and character images, index images, and the like.

The VDP 212 extracts effect images such as a background image and a character image from the image data ROM 216 in accordance with a command (image display command) supplied from the sub CPU 206.
Further, when a command for displaying the index image is supplied from the sub CPU 206, the VDP 212 extracts the index image from the image data ROM 216 in response to this command.

The VDP 212 stores various images extracted from the image data ROM 216 in a buffer (for example, a video RAM or the like) by superimposing, in order, for example, a background image, a character image, and an index image in order from the rear image. A screen image is generated and supplied to the D / A converter 218 at a predetermined timing (for example, every 1/30 seconds). The D / A converter 218 converts the screen image as an image signal and supplies the image signal to the liquid crystal display device 5. As a result, a screen image including the index image is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 5 (see FIG. 2). At this time, the VDP 212 functions as index image display control means.

In the following, it is assumed that the pachislot gaming device 1 is activated, the variables used in the CPU 41 are initialized to a predetermined value, and are constantly operating in a state where the set value is also set to the predetermined value. .

FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing a main routine of a game execution process performed in the main control circuit.

First, in step S100, the CPU 41 determines whether or not a medal is bet. In this processing, the CPU 41 determines whether a signal from the 1-BET switch 11 or the maximum BET switch 13 has been received.
If it is determined that a medal has been bet, the process proceeds to step S102. On the other hand, if it is determined that no medal is bet, the process proceeds to step S101.

In step S101, the CPU 41 determines whether or not a medal has been inserted. In this process, the CPU 41 determines whether or not a detection signal output from the inserted medal sensor 22S when a medal is inserted into the medal slot 22 is received.
If it is determined that a medal has been inserted, the process proceeds to step S102. On the other hand, if it is determined that no medal has been inserted, the process returns to step S100.

In step S102, the CPU 41 determines whether or not the start lever 6 is turned on. In this process, the CPU 41 determines whether or not a game start command signal has been received from the start switch 6S by operating the start lever 6.
If it is determined that the start lever 6 is turned on, the process proceeds to step S104. On the other hand, if it is determined that the start lever 6 is not turned on, the process returns to step S102.

In step S104, the CPU 41 makes a winning determination.
In this process, the CPU 41 extracts one random value from the random number generator 146 by the sampling circuit 147 at an appropriate timing after the start lever 6 is operated. Then, based on this random number value, an internal winning combination is determined with reference to the lottery probability table stored in the ROM 42, and a flag corresponding to the internal winning combination is set.
After the process of step S104, the process proceeds to step S105.

In step S <b> 105, the CPU 41 sets an effect start command in the RAM 43. This effect start command is a command for starting display of a predetermined effect image on the liquid crystal display device 5 and includes data on the internal winning combination determined by the winning determination in step S104. The effect start command is supplied to the sub control circuit 82 at a predetermined timing.
After the process of step S105, the process proceeds to step S106.

In step S106, the CPU 41 performs a reel rotation process. The reel rotation processing will be described in detail later with reference to FIG.
After the process of step S106, the process proceeds to step S108.

In step S108, a winning search is performed. In this process, the CPU 41 refers to the winning symbol combination table stored in the ROM 42 based on the symbol position (symbol code) of the rotating reel, and determines whether or not there is a winning in the internal winning combination.
After the process of step S108, the process proceeds to step S109.

In step S <b> 109, the CPU 41 sets an end effect command in the RAM 43. This end effect command is a command for displaying an effect image at the end of the game according to the game result, and includes data related to the result of the winning search in step S108. The end effect command is supplied to the sub control circuit 82 at a predetermined timing.
After the process of step S109, the process proceeds to step S110.

In step S110, the CPU 41 determines whether or not a winning is made based on the result of the winning search in step S108. If it is determined that no winning is made, the process returns to step S100. On the other hand, if it is determined that a prize has been won, the process proceeds to step S111.

In step S111, the CPU 41 determines whether or not the winning combination is replay. If the winning combination is replay, the process returns to step S102. As a result, the player can play the game again without newly inserting medals or betting.
On the other hand, if the winning combination is not replay, the process proceeds to step S112.

In step S112, the CPU 41 determines whether or not a medal has been paid out, that is, whether or not there is a winning number. If it is determined that medals have been paid out, the process proceeds to step S113. On the other hand, if it is determined that no medal has been paid out, the process proceeds to step S114.

In step S113, the CPU 41 stores or pays out medals corresponding to the gaming state and the winning combination. When storing medals, the CPU 41 performs a process of adding the number of credits stored in the RAM 43. On the other hand, when paying out medals, the CPU 41 sends out a payout command signal to the hopper drive circuit 51 to pay out a predetermined number of medals from the hopper 50. At this time, the medal detection unit 50S counts the number of medals to be paid out from the hopper 50, and inputs a medal payout completion signal to the CPU 41 when the counted value reaches a designated number. As a result, the CPU 41 stops driving the hopper 50 via the hopper drive circuit 51 and ends the medal payout process. At this time, the CPU 41 functions as a profit granting unit.
After the process of step S113, the process proceeds to step S114.

In step S114, the CPU 41 performs processing for setting a gaming state. In this process, the BB gaming state or the RB gaming state is set according to the winning combination. Further, when the gaming state is the BB gaming state or the RB gaming state, the general gaming state is set when the number of games in the gaming state reaches a predetermined number. In the next game, the game is played in the set game state. When the BB gaming state or the RB gaming state is set in step S114, the CPU 41 functions as a profit granting unit.
After the process of step S114, the process returns to step S100.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing a subroutine of reel rotation processing performed in the main control circuit.
This subroutine is called and executed in step S106 of the main routine shown in FIG.

First, in step S120, the CPU 41 performs an initial setting process for starting rotation. In this processing, the CPU 41 performs setting of initial values used for rotation control of the rotating reels 3L, 3C, 3R, processing for clearing a predetermined area of the RAM 43, and the like.
After the process of step S120, the process proceeds to step S121.

In step S121, the CPU 41 controls the motor drive circuit 49 to perform acceleration processing. In this process, the motor drive circuit 49 outputs a pulse to each of the stepping motors 59L, 59C, 59R and rotationally drives each of the stepping motors 59L, 59C, 59R to accelerate the rotation.
When the process of step S121 is performed and the rotation speed reaches a constant value, the process proceeds to step S122.

In step S122, the CPU 41 performs constant speed rotation processing. The constant speed rotation process will be described in detail later with reference to FIG.
After the process of step S122, this subroutine is terminated.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing a subroutine of constant speed rotation processing performed in the main control circuit.
This subroutine is called and executed in step S122 of the subroutine shown in FIG.

First, in step S140, the CPU 41 outputs a rotating motor pulse by the operating motor drive circuit 49 to drive the stepping motors 59L, 59C, 59R.
In step S141, the CPU 41 updates the pulse count for determining the movement display of one symbol of the rotating reel 3 that is rotating. The pulse counter is formed in a predetermined area of the RAM 43 corresponding to each rotary reel 3L, 3C, 3R. The pulse counter outputs the number of pulses output from the motor drive circuit 49 to each stepping motor 59L, 59C, 59R. Store every 3L, 3C, 3R. After the process of step S141, the process proceeds to step S142.

In step S142, the CPU 41 determines whether or not there is a rotating reel 3 for which a pulse count for one symbol (for example, 19 pulses) has been completed.
If it is determined that there is no rotating reel 3 for which the pulse count for one symbol has been completed, the process proceeds to step S146. On the other hand, if it is determined that the pulse count for one symbol has been completed, the process proceeds to step S143.

In step S143, the CPU 41 updates the symbol count of the rotating reel 3 for which the pulse count for one symbol has been completed. This process is performed only for the rotating reel 3 for which the pulse count for one symbol has been completed. This is because it is determined that the symbols displayed on the display window 4 have not been changed for the rotating reel 3 whose pulse count for one symbol has not ended. By this processing, the CPU 41 can recognize the symbol of the rotating reel 3 displayed on the display window 4 at that time. That is, the symbols displayed on the outer peripheral surfaces of the rotating reels 3L, 3C, and 3R are assigned numbers “0” to “20”, and the symbol count is changed from “0” based on the pulse count. By sequentially updating up to “20”, the corresponding symbol can be recognized.
After the process of step S143, the process proceeds to step S144.

In step S <b> 144, the CPU 41 performs a pressing position check process for the rotating reel 3 for which the pulse count for one symbol is completed. For the rotating reel 3 whose symbol displayed in the display window 4 is changed, it is necessary to determine whether or not the symbol combination can be set to the winning mode when the stop control process is performed. Because. The pushing position check process will be described later in detail with reference to FIG.
After the process of step S144, the process proceeds to step S145.

In step S145, the CPU 41 initializes a pulse count for determining the movement display of one symbol of the rotating reel 3 for which one symbol has been counted.
After the process of step S145, the process proceeds to step S146.

In step S146, the CPU 41 determines whether or not there is a rotating reel 3 in which the on-edge of the motor index signal of each of the stepping motors 59L, 59C, and 59R is detected, that is, at least one of the rotating reels 3L, 3C, and 3R is 1. Judge whether it has rotated.
If it is determined that there is a rotating reel 3 for which the on-edge of the motor index signal is detected, the process proceeds to step S147. On the other hand, if it is determined that there is no rotating reel 3 for which the on-edge of the motor index signal is detected, the process proceeds to step S148.

In step S147, the CPU 41 initializes a symbol counter or the like used for determining the symbol position of the rotating reel 3 where the on-edge of the motor index signal is detected. The symbol counter is formed in a predetermined area of the RAM 43 corresponding to each of the rotating reels 3L, 3C, 3R, and is counted up from “0” to “20”. The count value of the symbol counter is a code number in the symbol table and corresponds to the symbol code in the symbol table.
After the process of step S147, the process proceeds to step S148.

In step S148, the CPU 41 determines whether or not any one of the rotating reels 3L, 3C, 3R is at the end of rotation. In this process, the CPU 41 determines whether or not any one of the stop buttons 7L, 7C, and 7R serving as a stop command means is operated and a stop command signal is supplied from the reel stop signal circuit 56, or the rotation reel 3 It is determined whether or not it is the end timing of rotation based on whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of rotation.
If it is determined that any one of the rotating reels 3L, 3C, and 3R is the timing of the end of rotation, the process proceeds to step S149. On the other hand, if it is determined that the rotation reels 3L, 3C, and 3R that are the end timing of rotation do not exist, the process proceeds to step S140.

In step S149, the CPU 41 performs reel stop control. In this process, the CPU 41 instructs the motor drive circuit 49 to input each stop button 7L, at the timing when the stop button 7 (7L, 7C, 7R) is operated according to the flag set as a result of the winning determination. A stop request for the rotating reels 3L, 3C, 3R corresponding to 7C, 7R is set. At this time, for example, the CPU 41 determines the number of sliding symbols from the internal winning combination, the symbol position (symbol code) of the rotating reel, the stop control table, etc., and rotates the rotating reel 3 by the number of sliding symbols to stop it. At this time, the CPU 41 functions as a stop control unit.
After the process of step S149, the process proceeds to step S150.

In step S150, the CPU 41 determines whether or not all the rotating reels 3L, 3C, and 3R are stopped. If it is determined that all have been stopped, this subroutine is terminated. On the other hand, if it is determined that there are rotating reels 3L, 3C, 3R, the process proceeds to step S140.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing a subroutine of the eye-pressing position check process performed in the main control circuit.
This subroutine is called and executed in step S144 of the subroutine shown in FIG.

First, in step S160, the CPU 41 determines whether or not the internal winning combination is a specific internal winning combination (for example, BB). If it is determined that it is not a specific internal winning combination, this subroutine is terminated. On the other hand, if it is determined that it is a specific internal winning combination, the process proceeds to step S161.

In step S161, the CPU 41 determines whether or not the position of the rotary reel 3 to be processed is the eye guide position. The rotating reel 3 to be processed is the rotating reel 3 for which it has been determined in step S142 in FIG. 9 that the pulse count for one symbol has been completed. The eye guide position is the operation timing of the stop button 7 that allows the combination of symbols to be in a winning mode. That is, a predetermined time is required from the time when the stop button 7 is operated until the rotation of the rotary reel 3 is stopped. From the time when the stop button 7 is operated, the symbols constituting the winning mode become valid. The guide guide position is determined in consideration of the time until stopping on the line. In this case, the guide guide position does not have to be a position where the stop button 7 must be operated simultaneously with timing notification (display of an index image described later), and the player recognizes the operation timing of the stop button 7. Any position is possible as long as it is possible.
If it is determined in step S161 that it is not the eye guide position, this subroutine is terminated. On the other hand, if it is determined that the position is the guide guide position, the process proceeds to step S162.

In step S <b> 162, the CPU 41 sets an index image display command in the RAM 43. This index image display command is a command for displaying an index image on the liquid crystal display device 5, and data indicating which rotating reel 3 is a target of processing and data indicating which rotating reel 3 has been stopped. Is included. The index image display command is supplied to the sub control circuit 82 at a predetermined timing.
After the process of step S162, this subroutine is terminated.

When the main routine shown in FIG. 7 or the subroutine shown in FIGS. 8 to 10 is executed, an effect start command, an end effect command, or an index image display command is sent from the main control circuit 81 to the sub control circuit 82. Supplied. The index image display command is supplied from the main control circuit 81 to the sub-control circuit 82 at the operation timing of the stop button 7 that enables the combination of symbols to be in the winning mode. Note that the index image display command is supplied from the main control circuit 81 to the sub-control circuit 82 only when a specific combination (for example, BB or the like) is won internally. Displays an index image on the liquid crystal display device 5 as the front display means when the internal winning combination is a specific internal winning combination.
In the sub-control circuit 82, the following processing is performed based on the various commands described above.

FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing a subroutine of command reception processing performed in the sub control circuit.
First, in step S200, the sub CPU 206 determines whether or not an effect start command has been received. If it is determined that an effect start command has not been received, the process proceeds to step S210.
On the other hand, if it is determined that an effect start command has been received, in step S201, the sub CPU 206 selects an effect pattern corresponding to the command from a plurality of types of effect patterns stored in the program ROM 208. At this time, if the sub CPU 206 is in the RB gaming state, the sub CPU 206 selects an effect pattern for RB. If the game state is the BB game state, an effect pattern for BB is selected.
Next, in step S202, effect pattern data, which is data indicating the effect pattern, is supplied to the display control circuit 250.
After the process of step S202, the process proceeds to step S210.

In step S210, the sub CPU 206 determines whether or not an end effect command has been received. If it is determined that the end effect command has not been received, the process proceeds to step S230. On the other hand, when determining that the end effect command has been received, in step S211, the sub CPU 206 selects an end effect pattern corresponding to the command from a plurality of types of end effect patterns stored in the program ROM 208.
Next, in step S212, end effect pattern data corresponding to the end effect pattern is supplied to the display control circuit 250. After the process of step S210, the process proceeds to step S230.

In step S230, the sub CPU 206 determines whether or not an index image display command has been received. If it is determined that the index image display command has not been received, this subroutine is terminated. On the other hand, if it is determined that the index image display command has been received, in step S231, the sub CPU 206 selects an index pattern corresponding to the command from a plurality of types of index patterns stored in the program ROM 208. Here, based on the data indicating which rotating reels 3 are included in the received index image display command and the data indicating which rotating reels 3 are stopped, the index image indicates which rotating reels 3 and Correspondingly, the position to be displayed is determined. That is, when only one rotating reel is rotating, as shown in FIG. 2B, three index images 93 are displayed corresponding to the fluctuation display of the rotating reel 3 being rotated. An indicator pattern is selected. On the other hand, when there is not only one rotating reel 3 that is rotating, as shown in FIG. 2A, each index image 93 corresponds to the change display of the corresponding rotating reel 3. The indicator pattern is selected so as to be displayed.
Next, in step S232, index pattern data corresponding to the index pattern is supplied to the display control circuit 250. After the process of step S232, this subroutine is terminated.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing a subroutine of display control processing performed in the display control circuit.
The VDP 212 generates a screen image corresponding to various data supplied from the sub CPU 206.
When the VDP 212 does not receive the production pattern data from the sub CPU 206 (step S300: NO), the VDP 212 extracts the demo image from the image data ROM 216 and stores it in the buffer (step S301).

The VDP 212 receives the effect pattern data from the sub CPU 206 (step S300: YES). When the VDP 212 does not receive the end effect pattern data (step S304: NO), the effect image is extracted from the image data ROM 216. And stored in the buffer (step S305).

The VDP 212 receives the effect pattern data supplied from the sub CPU 206 (step S300: YES). When the end effect pattern data is supplied (step S304: YES), the VDP 212 receives the effect image at the end from the image data ROM 216. Is extracted and stored in the buffer (step S306).

After executing the processing of step S301, S305, or S306, the VDP 212 as the index image display control means extracts the index image from the image data ROM 216 if the index pattern data is supplied (step S320: YES). And stored in the buffer (step S321).
As described above, when only one rotating reel is rotating, as shown in FIG. 2B, three index images 93 are displayed corresponding to the fluctuation display of the rotating reel 3 being rotated. As described above, the VDP 212 extracts the index image. On the other hand, when there is not only one rotating reel 3 that is rotating, as shown in FIG. 2A, each index image 93 corresponds to the change display of the corresponding rotating reel 3. The VDP 212 extracts an index image so as to be displayed.

Next, it is determined whether or not the display of the index image based on the index pattern data is finished (step S323). The period during which the index image is displayed based on one index pattern data is not particularly limited, and is, for example, about 0.1 to 0.3 seconds. When the display of the index image based on the index pattern data is completed (step S323: YES), the index pattern data is cleared (step S324). As a result, the index image is not displayed until the index pattern data is supplied again.
When the display of the index image based on the index pattern data ends, or when the process of step S324 ends, the process proceeds to step S307.

Next, the screen image is output to the liquid crystal display device 5 at every predetermined timing (for example, every 1/30 seconds) (step S307: YES) (step S308). As a result, as shown in FIG. 2, the index image is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 5 at the operation timing of the stop button 7. On the other hand, if it is not the predetermined timing (step S307: NO), the process returns to step S307.

If the effect has not ended in step S310 (step S310: NO), the process returns to step S300. On the other hand, when the effect is finished (step S310: YES), the process returns to step S300.
When executing the processing shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, the sub control circuit 82 functions as a display control means.

As described above, according to the pachislot gaming apparatus 1, when two or more rotating reels 3 are rotating, one index image 93 is displayed corresponding to one rotating reel 3, whereas one rotation image is displayed. When only the reel 3 is rotating, a plurality of index images 93 are displayed corresponding to one rotating reel 3. Accordingly, all the index images 93 are displayed at a unified timing. As a result, when a specific condition occurs, the index image 93 is displayed in a manner different from that in the normal state, and it is possible to make the player feel fresh and unexpected, and at the same time, one rotating reel 3 It is possible to produce an effect that attracts the attention of the player.
Further, as compared with the case where all the index images 93 display differently, the player can concentrate on the variable display of one rotary reel 3 and can easily grasp the timing of pressing. .

In the present invention, it is also possible to display a screen image on the liquid crystal display device 5 positioned in front of the stopped rotating reel 3 and shield the stopped rotating reel 3. This is because by displaying the index image 93, it is not always necessary to show the player how to stop the rotating reel that has already stopped.

FIG. 13 is a front view showing another example of the screen image displayed on the liquid crystal display device shown in FIG.
The screen image shown in FIG. 13 is a screen image displayed when BB is internally won, 3L and 3C of the three rotating reels 3 are stopped, and 3R is rotating. A character image imitating a pig, a background image representing fireworks, and the like are displayed as effect images at a position located in front of the rotating reels 3L and 3C that have already stopped in the liquid crystal display device 5. The index images 93L, 93C, and 93R are all displayed corresponding to the change display of the rotating reel 3R that is rotating. In FIG. 13, since the symbol indicated by the rotating reel 3R includes “7”, index images 93L, 93C, and 93R are displayed. Furthermore, an image indicating the symbol “7” is displayed above the index images 93L and 93C. This is displayed when the rotating reels 3L and 3C that are stopped include the symbol “7” and there is a possibility of winning a BB depending on the stopping mode of the rotating reel 3R. By this display, the player is informed that the BB is won by the symbol “7” being stopped on the rotating reel 3R.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view showing another example of the schematic configuration of the liquid crystal display device included in the pachislot gaming device shown in FIG.
In the perspective view shown in FIG. 14, the same components as those in the perspective view shown in FIG. Only the parts different from FIG. 3 will be described.

The light guide plate 35 is used to guide the light from the fluorescent lamps 37a to 37f to the transparent liquid crystal panel 34 (illuminate the transparent liquid crystal panel 34), and is provided on the back side of the transparent liquid crystal panel 34. It is composed of a transparent member (having a light guiding function) such as an acrylic resin having a thickness.

The reflective film 36 is, for example, a white polyester film or an aluminum thin film formed with a silver vapor deposition film, and reflects light introduced into the light guide plate 35 toward the front side of the light guide plate 35. The reflective film 36 includes a reflective area 36A and a non-reflective area (transmissive area) 36B.
Two light shielding plates 91a and 91b are provided on the rotating reel 3 side of the non-reflective area (transmissive area) 36B. The light shielding plates 91a and 91b are for shielding light from the fluorescent lamps 37a to 37f, and are made of a non-transparent member such as an acrylic resin having a thickness of about 2 cm, for example. The light shielding plates 91a and 91b are provided at positions sandwiched between the rotary reels 3R and 3C, 3C and 3L, respectively.

The fluorescent lamps 37 a to 37 f are arranged along the upper end portion and the lower end portion of the light guide plate 35, and both ends are supported by the lamp holder 39. The light emitted from the fluorescent lamps 37 a to 37 f is reflected by the reflection area 36 </ b> A of the reflection film 36 to illuminate the transparent liquid crystal panel 34.

The fluorescent lamps 38a to 38f are arranged at the upper and lower positions on the back side of the reflective film 36 toward the rotary reels 3L, 3C, and 3R. Light emitted from the fluorescent lamps 38a to 38f, reflected by the surfaces of the rotating reels 3L, 3C, and 3R and incident on the non-reflective region 36B illuminates the transparent liquid crystal panel 34.

As described above, in the liquid crystal display device 5, the light irradiated from the fluorescent lamps 37a to 37f and reflected from the reflection region 36A of the reflective film 36 and the fluorescent lamps 38a to 38f are irradiated, and the rotation reels 3L, 3C, 3R The light reflected from the surface and incident on the non-reflective region 36B illuminates the transparent liquid crystal panel 34.
Accordingly, the region of the liquid crystal display device 5 corresponding to the non-reflective region 36B of the reflective film 36 is a region that switches to a transparent / non-transparent state depending on whether or not the liquid crystal is driven. The region of the liquid crystal display device corresponding to is in a non-transparent state regardless of whether or not the liquid crystal is driven.

The light emitted from the fluorescent lamps 37a, 37d, 38a, and 38d mainly illuminates a portion of the transparent liquid crystal panel 34 located on the front surface of the rotating reel 3R due to the presence of the light shielding plates 91a and 91b. Similarly, the light emitted from the fluorescent lamps 37b, 37e, 38b, and 38e mainly illuminates a portion of the transparent liquid crystal panel 34 located on the front surface of the rotary reel 3C, and is emitted from the fluorescent lamps 37c, 37f, 38c, and 38f. The light mainly illuminates a portion of the transparent liquid crystal panel 34 located in front of the rotary reel 3L.
As a result, only the portion of the liquid crystal display device 5 that is positioned in front of the specific rotating reel 3 can be made substantially non-transparent. As shown in FIG. 13, it is possible to make the portion located in front of the rotating reels 3L and 3C substantially non-transparent and make only the portion located in front of the rotating reel 3R transparent. In this case, the above state can be obtained by turning off the fluorescent lamps 37b, 37e, 38b, 38e, 37c, 37f, 38c and 38f and turning on the fluorescent lamps 37a, 37d, 38a and 38d.

As mentioned above, although embodiment which concerns on this invention was described, embodiment of this invention is not limited to this. The pattern and display position of the index image are not particularly limited. For example, the pattern of the index image 93 may be a character image or the like, and the display position of the index image 93 may be on the lower side or the lateral side of the rotary reel.

In the present embodiment, the index image 93 is displayed when the BB is hit internally. However, the present invention is not limited to this. The index image 93 may be displayed even when a special game other than BB (for example, RB) or a role (so-called child role) where a game medium is paid out is won internally. Further, instead of always displaying the index image 93 when these combinations are internally won, the index image 93 may be displayed only when these combinations are internally won and a specific condition is satisfied.

Moreover, although the fluctuation display means in the present invention has been described as being the rotary reel 3, the present invention is not limited to this. The variable display means in the present invention is not particularly limited, and examples thereof include a liquid crystal display device as an image display means having an identification information display area.

Furthermore, in this embodiment, when the number of rotating reels 3 being rotated becomes one, all three index images 93 corresponding to the respective reels are displayed corresponding to the rotating reel 3 being rotated. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, when a game is generated in which a combination of symbols stopped on the pay line becomes a specific winning mode only when the rotating reel 3 is stopped in a specific order, the change of the rotating reel 3 to be stopped next is caused. In addition, all the index images 93 may be displayed.
By displaying the index image 93 by the method as described above, the player's expectation and excitement are enhanced, and the display of the index image 93 is a criterion for determining which rotary reel 3 should be stopped next. obtain. Furthermore, the synergistic effect of the display of the game and the index image 93 makes it possible to produce an effect that further increases the player's expectation.

It is a perspective view showing typically an example of a pachislot gaming device according to the present invention. FIG. 2 is a front view showing an example of a screen image displayed on the liquid crystal display device shown in FIG. 1 and the vicinity of the liquid crystal display device. It is a perspective view which shows schematic structure of the liquid crystal display device with which the pachislot gaming machine shown in FIG. 1 is provided. FIG. 3 is a development view of a part of the configuration of the liquid crystal display device shown in FIG. 2. It is a block diagram which shows the internal structure of the pachislot gaming device shown in FIG. FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a sub control circuit shown in FIG. 5. It is a flowchart which shows the main routine of the game execution process performed in a main control circuit. It is a flowchart which shows the subroutine of the reel rotation process performed in a main control circuit. It is a flowchart which shows the subroutine of the constant speed rotation process performed in a main control circuit. It is a flowchart which shows the subroutine of the pushing position check process performed in a main control circuit. It is a flowchart which shows the subroutine of the command reception process performed in a subcontrol circuit. It is a flowchart which shows the subroutine of the display control process performed in a display control circuit. It is a front view which shows another example of the screen image displayed on the liquid crystal display device shown in FIG. It is a perspective view which shows another example of schematic structure of the liquid crystal display device with which the pachislot gaming machine shown in FIG. 1 is provided.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Pachislot gaming device 2 Case 3 (3L, 3C, 3R) Rotating reel 5 Liquid crystal display device 7 (7L, 7C, 7R) Stop button 34 Transparent liquid crystal panel 35 Light guide plate 36 Reflective film 37, 38 Fluorescent lamp 41 CPU
42 ROM
43 RAM
82 Sub-control circuit 91 Production image 93 Index image

Claims (8)

Fluctuation display means for variably displaying a plurality of identification information strings composed of a plurality of identification information in a manner to move in a predetermined direction
Stop command means for outputting a stop command signal in response to an operation by the player;
Stop control means for stopping the fluctuation display of any one of the plurality of identification information sequences based on detecting the stop command signal output from the stop command means;
When the stop mode of the plurality of identification information sequences stopped by the stop control means is a combination of specific identification information, a profit granting means for giving a profit to the player;
An indicator light lighting means capable of lighting an indicator light as an index of operation timing of the stop command means capable of causing the stop mode of the identification information string to be the specific identification information in association with each of the plurality of identification information strings. When,
An indicator light lighting control means for controlling the indicator light lighting means to turn on the indicator light,
When the specific condition is not satisfied, the indicator light lighting control unit causes the indicator light associated with the plurality of identification information sequences to have the stop mode of each identification information sequence as the specific identification information. On the other hand, when the specific condition is satisfied, the indicator light associated with each of the plurality of identification information strings is set to any one of the plurality of identification information strings. A gaming machine that is lit at an operation timing of the stop command means that can make one stop mode the specific identification information. Fluctuation display means for variably displaying a plurality of identification information strings composed of a plurality of identification information in a manner to move in a predetermined direction;
Stop command means for outputting a stop command signal in response to an operation by the player;
Stop control means for stopping the fluctuation display of any one of the plurality of identification information sequences based on detecting the stop command signal output from the stop command means;
When the stop mode of the plurality of identification information sequences stopped by the stop control means is a combination of specific identification information, a profit granting means for giving a profit to the player;
Index image display means capable of displaying an index image as an index of operation timing of the stop command means capable of making the stop mode of the identification information string the specific identification information in association with each of the plurality of identification information strings. When,
Index image display control means for performing control to display an index image on the index image display means,
When the specific condition is not satisfied, the index image display control unit causes the index image associated with the plurality of identification information sequences to have the stop mode of each identification information sequence as the specific identification information. While displaying at the operation timing of the obtained stop command means, if the specific condition is satisfied, an index image associated with each of the plurality of identification information strings is displayed in any one of the plurality of identification information strings. A gaming machine, wherein one stop mode is displayed at an operation timing of the stop command means that can be the specific identification information. The index image display control means is configured to display the plurality of identification information sequences when the variation display of one identification information sequence is performed and the variation display of the remaining identification information sequences is stopped. The index image associated with each of the identification information strings is displayed at an operation timing of the stop command means that can make the stop mode of the one identification information string the specific identification information. The gaming machine described. The stop control means, only when stopping the variable display of each identification information sequence in a specific stop order, triggered by the fact that a predetermined start condition for the specific stop order game is satisfied, Control that enables the stop mode to be a combination of specific identification information,
The index image display control means, when the start condition of the specific operation order game is satisfied, causes the index image associated with each of the plurality of identification information sequences to be the next in the specific stop order. 3. The gaming machine according to claim 2, wherein a stop mode and a stop mode of the set identification information sequence are displayed at an operation timing of the stop command means that can be used as the predetermined identification information. 5. The index image display control unit performs control to display an index image on the index image display unit only when a predetermined index image display condition is satisfied. Game machines. A rotating reel in which the identification information string is arranged on a peripheral surface;
Front display means provided in front of the rotating reel and capable of displaying a screen image in a state where the identification information row located on the surface of the rotating reel can be seen through or shielded;
Display control means for performing control to display a screen image on the front display means,
The front display means transparently displays the rotating reel on which the identification information string is variably displayed, shields the rotating reel on which the variation display of the identification information string is stopped, and uses the shielded portion. The game machine according to claim 2, wherein the screen image is displayed. The variation display means is an image display means provided with an identification information sequence display area capable of displaying the plurality of identification information sequences,
The gaming machine according to any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein the image display means displays another image in the identification information string display area in which the variable display of the identification information string is not performed. . The index image display control means displays an index image associated with the identification information sequence that is not subjected to variable display together with an image indicating the specific identification information. The gaming machine described.

Images