JP2007229118A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine with amusement even when a reel is automatically stopped. <P>SOLUTION: When a value in a carried-bonus storage region is not "zero" and an automatic stop flag is "on", each of the reels 3L, 3C and 3R is brought to a stop at a "jackpot" pattern on a priority basis. Accordingly, when the reels 3 are stopped not by a stop control, when the "jackpot" pattern is displayed, a game player is able to sense winning in "BB". Thereby an advantage is given at the automatic stop of the reels 3, and a player' interest is aroused. The game machine with fun is provided. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2007,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine.

  Conventionally, a plurality of reels each having a plurality of symbols arranged on each circumferential surface, and a plurality of symbols corresponding to each of the reels, and a part of the plurality of symbols arranged on the circumferential surface of each reel. When an operation for instructing the player to start (hereinafter referred to as a “start operation”) is detected on the condition that a display is displayed so that the player can visually recognize the symbol and a medal is inserted, When a start switch that outputs a signal requesting the start of rotation of the reel and an operation for instructing the player to stop the rotation of the reel (hereinafter referred to as “stop operation”) are detected, the reel A stop switch for outputting a signal requesting to stop the rotation of the motor, and a stepping motor provided in each reel based on the signals output from the start switch and the stop switch To control the operation, a game machine and a control unit for rotating and stopping of the reels, it is known so-called Pachi.

  In such a pachi-slot, it is determined whether or not a winning is made based on a combination of symbols displayed by the plurality of display windows, and a medal is paid out when it is determined that a winning is achieved.

  Further, in the current mainstream pachislot machine, when a start operation by a player is detected, an internal lottery is performed, and based on the result of the lottery and the timing of the stop operation by the player, the reel rotation is stopped. Is done. In other words, it is a condition that a result related to winning is obtained by internal lottery (hereinafter, the internal lottery result type is referred to as “internal winning combination”), and the stop operation is performed at an appropriate timing. In other words, a winning will be established.

In such a gaming machine, the operation of the stop button is permitted after the rotation of each reel is started, and when a predetermined time is counted without detecting the stop operation by the player, the control unit rotates each reel. Is automatically stopped (hereinafter referred to as “automatic stop”). At this time, the rotation of the reel is stopped except for a specific stop mode in which medals are paid out (so-called “losing”) (see, for example, Patent Document 1).
JP 2005-319270 A

  However, in such a conventional gaming machine, when the rotation of the reel is stopped regardless of the operation of the stop button, the rotation of the reel is stopped regardless of the operation of the stop button because the reel is stopped in a manner other than a specific stop mode. In this case, not only will the number of medals be reduced, but there will be no benefit for the player, and there will be no opportunity to stop the rotation of the reel regardless of the operation of the stop button.

  The present invention has been made to solve such a conventional problem, and an object thereof is to provide an interesting gaming machine by giving a privilege when the reel is automatically stopped.

  The gaming machine of the present invention has a plurality of reels (for example, reels 3L, 3C, 3R) each having a plurality of symbols (for example, symbols drawn on the outer circumferential surface of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R) arranged on the peripheral surface. A symbol display means (for example, display windows 4L, 4C, 4R) for displaying a plurality of symbols among the plurality of symbols respectively arranged on the peripheral surfaces of the reels, and the symbol display means Based on the start operation detecting means (for example, start switch 6S) for detecting the start operation for changing the plurality of symbols displayed by the start operation detecting means, the start operation detecting means detects the start operation. Symbol changing means for changing the plurality of symbols displayed on the display means (for example, main control circuit 71, stepping motors 49L, 49C, 49R, processing in step S12 in FIG. 15) The winning combination determining means (for example, the main control circuit 71, the internal lottery process in FIG. 19) for determining the winning combination based on the detection of the starting operation by the starting operation detecting means, and the symbol changing means A stop operation detecting means (for example, stop buttons 7L, 7C, 7R) for detecting a stop operation for stopping fluctuations of a plurality of symbols and a start operation detected by the start operation detecting means. Then, when a predetermined winning combination advantageous to the player is determined by the time measuring means (for example, the main control circuit 71, the process of step S212 in FIG. 27) and the winning combination determining means, which measures a predetermined time, Information storage means for storing information relating to the predetermined winning combination until a combination of symbols corresponding to the predetermined winning combination is displayed at a predetermined position by the symbol display means For example, the RAM 33), that the stop operation is detected by the stop operation detecting means, the winning combination determined by the winning combination determining means and the winning combination stored in the information storage means, or predetermined by the timing means Stop control means (for example, the main control circuit 71, the reel stop control process of FIG. 21) for stopping the change of the symbol performed by the symbol change means based on the time being measured, and the stop Determination means (for example, main control circuit 71, FIG. 15) for determining whether or not the symbol displayed at a predetermined position on the symbol display means corresponds to a predetermined symbol combination is stopped by the control means. In step S14), and the stop control means stores information on a predetermined winning combination by the information storage means, and the time counting means When the predetermined time is counted, the symbol display means stops the variation of the symbol so as to display a specific symbol combination for notifying the predetermined winning combination at the predetermined position. It has a characteristic configuration.

  With this configuration, the stop control means stores the information related to the predetermined winning combination by the information storage means, the stop operation is not detected by the stop operation detection means, and a specific time is counted by the time measurement means. Since the symbols are stopped so that the combination of symbols is displayed at a predetermined position, it is possible to detect whether or not a predetermined winning combination is determined when the reel is stopped regardless of the stop operation. Benefits can be generated when the game is automatically stopped, and the interest of the player can be improved.

  Further, in the gaming machine of the present invention, in the above gaming machine, the stop control means is configured such that the stop operation is detected by the stop operation detecting means before the predetermined time is measured by the time measuring means. The display means has a configuration characterized in that the variation of the symbol is stopped so that a symbol different from the specific symbol is displayed at the predetermined position.

  With this configuration, when the predetermined time has not been measured by the timing unit, the stop control unit stops the variation of the symbol so that a combination of symbols different from the specific symbol combination is displayed at a predetermined position. Therefore, when a stop operation is detected by the stop operation detecting means, it does not suggest whether or not a predetermined winning combination is won by a combination of symbols, and only when the display of a specific symbol combination is automatic stop It is possible to improve the interest of the player by automatic stop.

  According to the present invention, the stop control means stores information related to the predetermined winning combination by the information storage means, the stop operation is not detected by the stop operation detecting means, and the predetermined time is counted by the time measuring means. Since the symbols are stopped so that a specific symbol combination is displayed at a predetermined position, it is possible to detect whether or not a predetermined winning combination is determined when the reel is stopped regardless of the stop operation. In addition, it is possible to provide an interesting gaming machine that generates a privilege when the reels are automatically stopped and improves the interest of the player.

  Hereinafter, a gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

  FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an appearance of a gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. This gaming machine is a so-called “pachislot machine”. The pachi-slot machine 1 is a gaming machine that uses a game medium such as a coin, medal, game ball, token, etc., or a game medium such as a card that stores information on the game value given to or given to the player. In the following description, medals are used.

  A panel display portion 2a as a substantially vertical surface is formed on the front surface of the cabinet 2 (included in the housing) that forms the entire pachi-slot machine 1. A rectangular liquid crystal display screen (hereinafter also referred to as a display screen) 5a displayed by the liquid crystal display device 5 is provided on the front surface of the panel display unit 2a. The liquid crystal display can be performed on the display screen 5a. The reels 3 (corresponding to the left reel 3L, the middle reel 3C, and the right reel 3R) arranged on the back side of can be displayed in a transparent manner. The display screen 5a displays information related to the game or various effects such as animation.

  In the center of the panel display unit 2a, vertically long display windows 4L, 4C, 4R are provided. The display windows 4L, 4C, and 4R are provided with a top line 8b, a center line 8c, and a bottom line 8d in the horizontal direction as effective lines, and a cross down line 8a and a cross up line 8e in an oblique direction.

  These active lines are respectively operated by operating a 1-BET switch 11, a 2-BET switch 12, and a maximum BET switch 13, which will be described later, or by inserting medals into the medal insertion slot 22, respectively. A book is set. Which effective line is set is recognized by turning on BET lamps 9a, 9b, and 9c described later.

  Here, the effective lines 8a to 8e are related to the success or failure of the combination. Specifically, one symbol (for example, “cherry”, which will be described later) corresponding to a predetermined combination (for example, “cherry small part” which will be described later) will correspond to a predetermined position (for example, left When the symbols constituting the symbol combination corresponding to a predetermined combination are stopped and displayed side by side at a predetermined position corresponding to one of the effective lines. A predetermined combination will be established.

  Inside the cabinet 2, three reels 3L, 3C, and 3R each having a symbol row composed of a plurality of types of symbols on each outer peripheral surface are rotatably provided in a horizontal row. As described above, the design of each reel can be seen through the display windows 4L, 4C, 4R. Each reel rotates at a constant speed (for example, 80 rotations / minute).

  Outside the area of the liquid crystal display screen 5a, a 1-BET lamp 9a, a 2-BET lamp 9b, a maximum BET lamp 9c, a credit display unit 19, and operation keys 24 are provided on the left side of the display windows 4L, 4C, 4R. It has been.

  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 referred to as “BET number”).

  The 1-BET lamp 9a lights up when the number of BETs is “1” and one effective line is set. The 2-BET lamp 9b is lit when the number of BETs is “2” and three valid lines are set. The maximum BET lamp 9c is lit when the number of BETs is “3” and all (5) effective lines are set.

  The credit display unit 19 is composed of a 7-segment LED, and displays the number of medals stored (credited). The stored medals are those that the player has acquired in the game and should be paid out and stored in the plane by operating the C / P switch 14 described later. The number of medals stored is stored in a predetermined storage area.

  The operation key 24 is used to select a display image displayed on the display screen 5a. In addition, a menu screen is displayed by calling a predetermined operation.

  On the right side of the display windows 4L, 4C, 4R, a WIN lamp (so-called hit display lamp) 17, a payout display section 18, and a bonus game information display section 20 are provided.

  The WIN lamp 17 is turned on with a predetermined probability when a predetermined role, for example, “Big Bonus (hereinafter referred to as BB)” is won. Here, BB and “regular bonus (hereinafter referred to as RB)” are collectively referred to as “bonus” hereinafter. Details of BB and RB will be described later.

  The payout display unit 18 is composed of a 7-segment LED, and displays the payout number of medals at the time of winning. The bonus game information display unit 20 includes a 7-segment LED, and displays the number of games in the RB game state described later.

  A horizontal pedestal 10 is formed below the liquid crystal display screen 5a. A medal slot 22 is provided on the right side of the pedestal 10. The 1-BET switch 11 and the 2-BET switch 12 are provided on the lower left side of the liquid crystal display screen 5 a, and the maximum BET switch 13 is provided on the left side of the pedestal 10. Is provided.

  The 1-BET switch 11 bets one of the credited medals on the game by a single pressing operation, and the 2-BET switch 12 displays the credited medals by a single pressing operation. Two of them are bet on the game, and the maximum BET switch 13 bets the maximum number of medals that can be bet on one game by one push operation. By operating these BET switches 11, 12, and 13, a predetermined effective line is set as described above.

  A C / P switch 14 is provided on the left side of the front portion of the pedestal unit 10 to switch the credit (Credit) / payout (Pay) of medals obtained by the player in the game by a push button operation. By switching the C / P switch 14, the credit mode or the payout mode is switched. In the credit mode, when a winning is established, medals corresponding to the winning number are credited. Further, in the payout mode, when a winning is established, medals for the number of payouts corresponding to the winning are paid out from the medal payout exit 15 at the lower front, and the medals paid out from the medal payout exit 15 are sent to the medal receiving unit 16. Can be stored.

  On the right side of the C / P switch 14, there is a start lever 6 for rotating the reels 3L, 3C, 3R by the player's operation and starting the display of symbol variation in the display windows 4L, 4C, 4R. It is mounted so as to be rotatable within an angular range.

  Three stop buttons 7 (a left stop button 7L and a middle stop button 7C) for stopping the rotation of the three reels 3L, 3C, and 3R at the center of the front surface of the pedestal 10 and below the liquid crystal display screen 5a. , Corresponding to the right stop button 7R).

  Speakers 21L and 21R are provided on the left and right above the panel display unit 2a. Between the two speakers 21L and 21R, a payout table panel 23 for displaying a combination of display symbols and a payout number of medals is displayed. Is provided.

  In the present embodiment, one game (unit game) basically starts when the start lever 6 is operated, and ends when all the reels 3L, 3C, 3R are stopped.

  In this embodiment, the reel stop operation (operation of any one of the stop buttons 7L, 7C, and 7R) performed when all the reels are rotating is referred to as “first stop operation”. The stop operation performed after “1 stop operation” is referred to as “second stop operation”, and the stop operation performed after “second stop operation” is referred to as “third stop operation”.

  FIG. 2 shows a symbol arrangement table showing the arrangement of symbol rows in which 21 types of symbols represented on the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R are arranged. Each symbol is given a code number of “00” to “20” and stored (stored) in a ROM 32 (FIG. 12) described later.

  According to this symbol arrangement table, on each reel 3L, 3C, 3R, “Red 7”, “Replay”, “Cherry”, “Bell”, “Watermelon”, “Large”, “To” and “Ri” A symbol sequence composed of symbols is represented.

  Next, FIG. 3 shows a symbol combination table, which will be described.

  In the pachislot machine 1, when the player operates the start lever 6, an internal lottery is performed to determine an internal winning combination (for example, “cherry small role”, “replay”, “BB”, etc.). If the reel 3 is stopped by the player's stop operation and the symbol combination corresponding to the internal winning combination is stopped and displayed on the effective line 8 designated by the player, the display combination is established.

  Here, among the displayed winning combinations, in particular, a winning combination is a winning combination when the symbol combination corresponding to the internal winning combination is stopped and displayed on the active line. When the symbol combination corresponding to the internal winning combination is stopped and displayed on the active line, the winning combination is “establishment of winning combination”.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the symbol combination “Cherry-ANY-ANY” (ANY may be any symbol) is arranged along the effective line, so that “Cherry's small role” is won and the number of inserted medals is 1. 15 medals are paid out, and when the number of inserted medals is 3, 2 medals are paid out. In addition, when the number of inserted sheets is 3, that is, when five effective lines are set, if the cherry is displayed on the upper or lower stage of the left display window 4L, it is established on two effective lines. Therefore, 4 (2 × 2) medals are paid out.

  In addition, when the combination of symbols “Bell-Bell-Bell” is arranged along the active line, the player wins “Bell's small role”, and when the number of medals is one, 15 medals are paid out and medals When the inserted number is 3, ten medals are paid out.

  In addition, when the symbol combination “Watermelon-Watermelon-Watermelon” is arranged along the active line, the “Watermelon small part” is won, and when the number of inserted medals is one, 15 medals are paid out and medals When the inserted number is 3, 6 medals are paid out.

  The “cherry small part”, the “bell small part”, and the “watermelon small part” may be collectively referred to as “small part”.

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

  In addition, when the symbol combination “red 7-red 7-red 7” is arranged along the active line, “BB” is established and the medal is not paid out, but the gaming state of the next game is “RB gaming state”. (More specifically, the BB operating flag is turned “ON” and the RB gaming state is set by the RB operating process). The gaming state will be described later.

  In addition, when a symbol combination other than the symbol combinations related to the above-mentioned “cherry small part”, “bell small part”, “watermelon small part”, “replay” and “BB” is displayed, Is established.

  Next, FIG. 4 shows a bonus operation time table, which will be described. In the bonus operation time table, various information setting values set when the bonus is established are described.

  As shown in FIG. 4, when the display combination “BB” is established and the BB operation process is activated, the “BB operation flag” is set as the operation flag and “350” is set in the bonus end number counter. To do. When the RB operation process is activated, the “RB operation flag” is set as the operation flag, and “12” is set in the possible game number counter, and “8” is set in the possible game number counter.

  Here, the gaming state will be described. The gaming state indicates a gaming state during the game or during several games, and includes a basic “general gaming state” and an “RB gaming state” advantageous to the player.

  The “RB gaming state” is a gaming state in which an internal lottery table that is easy to win a winning combination that can acquire medals at the time of internal lottery is selected, and is a gaming state that is advantageous to the player. The “internal lottery table” will be described later.

  Further, the “RB gaming state” has an end condition. In the present embodiment, the maximum number of games that can be performed in one “RB gaming state” (this is referred to as the “number of possible RB games”) is twelve. Further, in this “RB gaming state”, the number of times that a winning combination in which medals are paid out can be established (this is referred to as “RB winning number”) is up to eight times. In other words, this “RB gaming state” ends when the number of games reaches 12 times or the winning combination is reached 8 times.

  Furthermore, the “RB gaming state” is a gaming state that occurs during a bonus (specifically, when the BB operating flag is in the “on” state), but a bonus termination condition is also defined. In the present embodiment, the number of payouts to end the bonus is defined as “350”. That is, the bonus (the state where the BB operation flag is “on”) ends when the payout number reaches “350”.

  Further, as described above, the “general gaming state” is a basic gaming state in which there is no privilege advantageous to the player. Furthermore, in the “general gaming state”, when “BB” (internal winning combination related to the operation of the bonus) is won internally, but the symbol combination of “BB” is not displayed on the set active line, The winning “BB” is carried over to the next game. When “BB” is won internally, “BB” is stored as “carry-over” until the combination of symbols “BB” is displayed on the set active line. While “BB” is stored as “carryover role”, the “carryover state” continues. The state where “BB” is carried over as a “carry-over” is also referred to as a BB internal winning state (BB carry-over state).

  Next, FIG. 5 shows an internal lottery table determination table, which will be described. This is used in the internal lottery process to determine the type of the internal lottery table and the number of lotteries based on the gaming state.

  In other words, the internal lottery table determination table defines an internal lottery table to be selected according to the gaming state and the number of lotteries indicating how many lotteries are to be performed using the internal lottery table. Here, the number of lotteries indicates the number of lottery processes (corresponding to a subtraction process) performed using a random value acquired prior to the internal lottery process and a lottery value set for each winning number. Yes. The internal winning combination is determined according to the winning number determined by the internal lottery process.

  As shown in FIG. 5, in the general gaming state, the internal lottery table for the general gaming state is determined as the internal lottery table, and “5” is determined as the number of lotteries. In the RB gaming state, the internal lottery table for the RB gaming state is determined as the internal lottery table, and “3” is determined as the number of lotteries.

  Next, an internal lottery table is shown in FIGS. FIG. 6 is an internal lottery table for a general gaming state, and FIG. 7 is an internal lottery table for an RB gaming state. This is used to acquire a lottery value based on the winning number and the number of inserted coins in the internal lottery process.

  As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, the internal lottery table shows a winning number, and a lower limit value and an upper limit value of random numbers that become lottery values according to the number of pieces inserted for each winning number. A value obtained by dividing the range of each lottery value by “65536” is the winning probability of the corresponding internal winning combination. The range that does not correspond to the random number range of any winning number is “lost”. Further, in the present embodiment, two internal lottery tables, “general gaming state internal lottery table” and “RB gaming state internal lottery table” are used.

  FIG. 6 shows an internal lottery table for a general gaming state. As described above, the internal lottery table for the general gaming state is used in the general gaming state. Further, here, the winning number is associated with the lower limit value and the upper limit value of the lottery value for each inserted number. Based on the internal lottery table for the general gaming state, there is a possibility that the winning number is determined to be any one of “1” to “5”, and within the range between the lower limit value and the upper limit value of any lottery value. If not, the winning number is “0”.

  FIG. 7 shows an RB gaming state internal lottery table. As described above, the internal lottery table for the RB gaming state is used in the RB gaming state. Based on this RB gaming state internal lottery table, the winning number may be determined as any one of “1” to “3”, and within the range between the lower limit value and the upper limit value of any lottery value. If not, the winning number is “0”.

  Here, the internal lottery table is provided for each set value (setting) provided in a plurality of stages (for example, six stages), but the internal lottery table for each set value is omitted. The set value is basically a value set (selected) by the game store side, and the degree of player's advantage in the game (for example, the winning rate, the internal winning probability of the combination, etc.) varies depending on the set value. It has become. Actually, “1” to “6” are provided as set values. Then, the probability of internally winning a combination such as “BB” is made different between the set values. Further, instead of preparing an internal lottery table corresponding to the gaming state for every set value, the same internal lottery table may be shared among the set values. At this time, it may be shared in the same gaming state, or can be shared in different gaming states. Such setting of the internal lottery table can be easily performed by the above-mentioned internal lottery table determination table.

  Next, FIG. 8 shows an internal winning combination determination table, which will be described. The internal winning combination determination table is for determining an internal winning combination in accordance with the winning number obtained by the internal lottery process. Here, the internal winning combination is represented by an 8-bit bit string.

  As shown in FIG. 8, when the winning number is “0”, “00000000” is determined as the internal winning combination in any gaming state, which is “losing”.

  Hereinafter, in all the winning numbers, both the general gaming state and the RB gaming state have the same internal winning combination.

  When the winning number is “1”, “00000001” is determined as the internal winning combination, which is “Cherry”. When the winning number is “2”, “00000010” is determined as the internal winning combination, which is “bell”. When the winning number is “3”, “00000100” is determined as the internal winning combination, which is “watermelon”.

  When the winning number is “4”, “00001000” is determined as the internal winning combination, which is “replay”. When the winning number is “5”, “00010000” is determined as the internal winning combination, which is “BB”.

  Next, FIG. 9 shows bonus check data and will be described. As shown in FIG. 9, the bonus check data is “00010000” in 8 bits.

  The bonus check data is used for a logical operation (logical product operation) with an internal winning combination in the internal lottery process, and only bonus data is extracted from the internal winning combination. Specifically, only “1” of bit 4 of the internal winning combination “BB” is made effective by the logical product operation of the bonus check data “00010000” and the internal winning combination, so that the internal winning combination is “BB”. Only extracted as bonus data.

  Next, FIG. 10 shows the storage area of the internal winning combination (or display combination) and will be described. This storage area is allocated to a predetermined storage area of the RAM 33. Here, the type (bit 0 to bit 7) of each bit data stored is associated with the value (0 or 1) set as the bit data.

  The internal symbol combination storage area stores the logical sum of the data stored in the internal symbol combination and carryover combination storage area in the internal lottery process.

  Next, FIG. 11 shows the carryover combination storage area, which will be described. This carryover combination storage area is also allocated to a predetermined storage area of the RAM 33.

  In addition, the carryover combination storage area stores the logical sum of the logical product of the internal winning combination and bonus check data and the data of the carryover combination storage area in the internal lottery process.

  Next, FIG. 12 shows a main circuit configuration of the pachislot machine 1 and will be described.

  FIG. 12 shows a main control circuit 71 that controls game processing operations in the pachislot machine 1, peripheral devices (actuators) that are electrically connected to the main control circuit 71, and control signals (commands) transmitted from the main control circuit 71. 1 shows a circuit configuration including the liquid crystal display device 5 and the sub-control circuit 72 that controls the speakers 21L, 21R and the like.

  The main control circuit 71 includes a microcomputer 30 disposed on a circuit board as a main component, and is added to a circuit for random number sampling. The microcomputer 30 includes a CPU 31 that performs a control operation according to a preset program, and a ROM 32 and a RAM 33 that are storage means.

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

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

  In the ROM 32 of the microcomputer 30, a program related to the processing of the CPU 31, an “internal lottery table” used for determination of random number sampling performed every time the start lever 6 is operated (start operation), and set when a bonus is established. A “bonus operating table” in which various information setting values are defined, a “stop control table (not shown)” for determining a reel stop mode according to the operation of the stop button, and the sub-control circuit 72 Various control commands (commands, signals) and the like are stored.

  Various information is stored in the RAM 33. For example, the extracted random number value, various flags (for example, BB operating flag, RB operating flag), medal credit number, game state information, and the like are stored.

  Further, the sub control circuit 72 does not input commands, information, or the like to the main control circuit 71, and communication is performed in one direction from the main control circuit 71 to the sub control circuit 72.

  As a main actuator whose operation is controlled by a control signal from the microcomputer 30, a hopper (including a drive unit for payout) 40 that stores medals and pays out a predetermined number of medals according to a command from the hopper drive circuit 41, There are stepping motors 49L, 49C, 49R for rotationally driving the reels 3L, 3C, 3R.

  Further, a motor drive circuit 39 for driving and controlling the stepping motors 49L, 49C and 49R and a hopper drive circuit 41 for driving and controlling the hopper 40 are connected to the output section of the CPU 31. Each of these drive circuits receives a control signal such as a drive command output from the CPU 31 and controls the operation of each actuator. The motor drive circuit 39 rotates the stepping motors 49L, 49C, 49R at an arbitrary speed.

  The main input signal generating means for generating an input signal necessary for the microcomputer 30 to generate a control command includes a start switch 6S, a 1-BET switch 11, a 2-BET switch 12, a maximum BET switch 13, There are a C / P switch 14, a inserted medal sensor 22S, a reel stop signal circuit 46, a reel position detection circuit 50, and a payout completion signal circuit 51, which are also connected to the CPU 31.

  The start switch 6S detects the operation of the start lever 6 and generates a start switch signal. The inserted medal sensor 22 </ b> S detects a medal inserted into the medal slot 22.

  When the inserted medal sensor 22S detects a medal inserted into the medal slot 22, the CPU 31 counts this medal and credits up to 50 medals to the RAM 33. The CPU 31 is credited to the RAM 33. The medals are subtracted by the number corresponding to the operation of the 1-BET switch 11, the 2-BET switch 12, and the maximum BET switch 13, the effective lines 8a to 8e are set, and the BET lamps 9a, 9b, and 9c are turned on. It has become.

  The reel stop signal circuit 46 generates a stop signal in response to the operation of each stop button 7L, 7C, 7R. The reel position detection circuit 50 receives the pulse signal from the reel rotation sensor and supplies a signal for detecting the position of the symbol on each reel 3L, 3C, 3R to the CPU 31. The payout completion signal circuit 51 generates a signal for detecting completion of the medal payout when the count value of the medal detection unit 40S (the number of medals paid out from the hopper 40) reaches the designated number data.

  The random number generator 36 generates random values belonging to a certain numerical range (0 to 65535), and the sampling circuit 37 samples one random value at an appropriate timing after the start lever 6 is operated. An internal winning combination is determined based on the random number value sampled in this way and the internal lottery table stored in the ROM 32.

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

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

  Furthermore, a symbol combination table is stored in the ROM 32. In the symbol combination table, a symbol combination serving as a display combination, a medal payout number of the display combination, and a display combination determination code representing the display combination are associated with each other. The symbol combination table is referred to when the left reel 3L, the middle reel 3C, and the right reel 3R are stopped and when the display combination is confirmed after all the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R are stopped.

  Based on the lottery process (internal lottery process) based on the random number sampling, the CPU 31 selects the reel stop signal sent from the reel stop signal circuit 46 at the timing when the player operates the stop buttons 7L, 7C, and 7R, and the selected one. Based on the “stop control table”, a signal for controlling the stop of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R is sent to the motor drive circuit 39.

  If it becomes a stop mode indicating winning after the internal winning, the CPU 31 updates the credit counter set in the RAM 33 or issues a payout command signal to the hopper driving circuit 41 according to the mode set by the C / P switch 14. And a predetermined number of medals are paid out from the hopper 40. At this time, the medal detection unit 40S counts the number of medals to be paid out from the hopper 40, and when the count value reaches a designated number, a medal payout completion signal is input to the CPU 31. As a result, the CPU 31 stops driving the hopper 40 via the hopper drive circuit 41 and ends the “medal payout process”.

  Next, the configuration of the sub-control circuit 72 is shown in FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 13, the sub control circuit 72 controls the display of the liquid crystal display device 5 based on the control signal from the main control circuit 71, lamps (BET lamps 9a, 9b, 9c, WIN lamp 17) and LEDs. Lighting control of the (payout display unit 18, credit display unit 19, bonus game information display unit 20) and sound output control from the speakers 21L and 21R are performed.

  The sub control circuit 72 is configured on a circuit board different from the circuit board constituting the main control circuit 71, and includes a sound / lamp control circuit 73 and an image control circuit 80.

  The image control circuit 80 includes a serial port 81 for exchanging signals between the main control circuit 71 and the serial port 77, an image control CPU 82, an image control work RAM 83, an image control program ROM 84, a calendar IC 85, and an image ROM 86. A video RAM 87, an image control IC 88, and a control RAM 89.

  Similarly to the main control circuit 71, the image control circuit 80 includes a clock pulse generation circuit, a frequency divider, a random number generator, and a sampling circuit, and is connected to the image control CPU 82 (not shown). These are configured to execute random number sampling.

  Random number sampling is performed by generating random values belonging to the random number range “0-127”, “0-255”, and sampling one random value. The random number sampling can also be performed by the image control CPU 82.

  The image control CPU 82 includes a computer that controls the entire image control circuit 80, and effects data (image information) according to a control program stored in the image control program ROM 84 based on a command transmitted from the main control circuit 71. Various processes such as determination and output (including light emission pattern information and sound information).

  The image control work RAM 83 is configured as a temporary storage unit when the image control CPU 82 executes the image control program stored in the image control program ROM 84.

  The image control program ROM 84 stores an image control program related to display on the liquid crystal display device 5 and various selection tables. The image control program ROM 84 also stores an effect identifier determination table and an effect data determination table.

  The calendar IC 85 stores time information.

  The calendar IC 85 and the image control work RAM 83 are backup targets for holding data even when the power is turned off. That is, even when the power supplied to the image control CPU 82 is shut off, the power is continuously supplied, and the stored information and the like are prevented from being erased.

  The image ROM 86 stores image data, dot data, and the like for forming an image used for effect display and the like. For example, characters such as people and animals, sprite image data such as symbols, characters, and figures, background data, and the like are stored. Sprite image data is an image to be displayed superimposed on a background image (background surface).

  The image ROM 86 also stores a demonstration video to be displayed when the pachislot machine 1 is not used for a predetermined time.

  The video RAM 87 is configured as a temporary storage unit when the image control IC 88 forms an image.

  The image control IC 88 forms an image corresponding to the contents of the effect determined by the image control CPU 82 and outputs the image to the liquid crystal display device 5. The control RAM 89 is included in the image control IC 88, and the image control IC 88 Various control parameters for forming an image are stored.

  In the image control circuit 80, the image control CPU 82 also controls the production of sounds and lamps. The image control CPU 82 determines the sound / lamp type and output timing based on the determined effect data. Then, the image control CPU 82 transmits a command to the sound / lamp control circuit 73 via the serial port 81 at every predetermined timing. The sound / lamp control circuit 73 mainly outputs only the sound / lamp in response to the command transmitted from the image control circuit 80 (excluding volume adjustment control described later).

  The sound / lamp control circuit 73 includes a serial port 77 connected to the serial port 81 of the image control circuit 80, a sound / lamp control CPU 74, a program ROM 75, a work RAM 76, a sound source IC 78, a power amplifier 79, and a sound source. ROM91.

  The sound / lamp control CPU 74 performs sound / lamp output control in accordance with control signals transmitted from the main control circuit 71 and the image control CPU 82 via the serial ports 81 and 77. The sound / lamp control CPU 74 is connected to a payout display unit 18, a credit display unit 19, a bonus game information display unit 20, BET lamps 9 a, 9 b, 9 c, and a WIN lamp 17. The sound / lamp control CPU 74 transmits an output signal to each of the actuators in response to a command transmitted from the image control circuit 80 at a predetermined timing. Thereby, each actuator emits light in a predetermined manner according to the command.

  The program ROM 75 stores a control program executed by the sound / lamp control CPU 74. The work RAM 76 is temporary storage means when the sound / lamp control CPU 74 executes the control program described above.

  The sound source ROM 91 stores sound source data and the like for generating a sound source. The sound source IC 78 generates a sound source using the sound source stored in the sound source ROM 91 based on the command transmitted from the image control circuit 80 and outputs the sound source to the power amplifier 79. The power amplifier 79 is an amplifier to which speakers 21L and 21R are connected. The power amplifier 79 amplifies the sound source output from the sound source IC 78 and outputs the amplified sound source from the speakers 21L and 21R.

  Further, a volume control unit 92 is connected to the sound / lamp control CPU 74. The volume control unit 92 can be operated by a game clerk or the like, and the volume output from the speakers 21L and 21R is adjusted. The sound / lamp control CPU 74 performs control to adjust the sound output from the speakers 21L and 21R to the input volume based on the input signal transmitted from the volume adjustment unit 92 (volume adjustment control).

  Next, FIGS. 14 and 15 show a main flowchart of control processing by the main control circuit 71 of the pachislot machine 1, and will be described. This flowchart shows a processing procedure executed by the control program stored in the ROM 32 and is executed by the CPU 31.

  First, the CPU 31 performs an initialization process at the start of the game (step S1). Specifically, the storage contents of the RAM 33 are initialized, communication data is initialized, and the like.

  Next, initialization processing for one game end, that is, information in a predetermined storage area of the RAM 33 at the end of the game is erased (step S2). Specifically, the data in the writable area of the RAM 33 used in the previous game is erased, the parameters necessary for the next game are written in the write area of the RAM 33, the start address of the sequence program of the next game is specified, etc. I do.

  Next, the CPU 31 performs a bonus operation monitoring process (step S3). Here, when the BB is in operation, the RB is also in operation. Details of the bonus operation monitoring process will be described later.

  Next, a medal acceptance / start check process is performed (step S4). Specifically, information for determining whether or not a replay has been established in the previous game based on the replay operating flag, an input from the inserted medal sensor 22S based on the medal insertion into the medal insertion slot 22, and the BET switch 11, In response to inputs from 12 and 13, the insertion number counter set in the RAM 33 is updated. Here, the replay operating flag is information for identifying whether or not replay is established, and the inserted number counter is information for specifying the inserted number in the next game.

  In addition, the effective line is set according to the value of the insertion number counter. For example, if the inserted number counter is “3”, a display combination described later is determined based on a combination of symbols displayed on all the effective lines. Further, based on the operation of the start lever 6 on condition that a medal is inserted (for example, the inserted number counter is “1” or more, or the inserted number counter is the maximum value “3”). The presence of input from the start switch 6S is checked. Details of the medal reception / start check process will also be described later.

  Subsequently, the CPU 31 performs a random value extraction process for internal lottery (step S5). In this random number extraction process, one random number value is extracted from the random number value in the range of “0 to 65535” generated by the random number generator 36 via the sampling circuit 37, and the extracted random number value is stored in the random number value in the RAM 33. Store in the storage area.

  Next, the CPU 31 performs a gaming state monitoring process (step S6). In this gaming state monitoring process, information for identifying the gaming state in the current game is set in the RAM 33 based on the BB operating flag, RB operating flag, or carryover combination information.

  Next, the CPU 31 performs an internal lottery process (step S7).

  In the internal lottery process, the internal lottery table determination table is referred to, and the number of lotteries and the type of the internal lottery table are determined based on the gaming state acquired in the gaming state monitoring process. For example, when the gaming state is the general gaming state, “5” is determined as the number of lotteries, and the internal lottery table for the general gaming state is determined as the internal lottery table.

  Next, with reference to the internal lottery table for the general gaming state, the current internal winning combination is determined based on the random value acquired by the random value extraction process (the random value stored in the random value storage area of the RAM 33). . Next, if the determined internal winning combination is a bonus, this bonus is set as a carryover combination in the carryover combination storage area of the RAM 33. Further, the logical sum of the current internal winning combination and the carryover combination determined above is determined as the winning combination.

  For example, if “Bell's small combination” is determined as the internal winning combination and “BB” is set as the carryover combination, “Bell's small combination” and “BB” are determined as the winning combinations. In other words, the internal winning combination and the carryover combination are information related to the determination of the display mode of the symbols when the reels are stopped, and are referred to as “winning combination”. Details of the internal lottery process will also be described later.

  Next, the CPU 31 transmits a “start command” to the sub control circuit 72 (step S8). The “start command” includes an internal winning combination, game state information, and the like.

  Subsequently, it is determined whether or not a predetermined time (for example, “4.1 seconds”) has elapsed since the start of the previous game (step S9). When this determination result is “YES”, a timer setting process ( The process proceeds to step S11), and if “NO”, the process proceeds to a waiting time digestion process (step S10).

  In the waiting time digestion process (step S10), the game start waiting time is digested (wait) without performing the subsequent processes until the predetermined time has elapsed since the previous game started. Specifically, a process of invalidating the input based on the player's operation to start the game is performed until “4.1 seconds” have elapsed since the previous game started.

  Next, in the game monitoring timer setting process (step S11), the game monitoring timer is set. Specifically, an intergame monitoring timer and an automatic stop timer are set. The inter-game monitoring timer is a timer for measuring the time from the start of the game in order to secure the time between the games. The automatic stop timer is used for the player's stop buttons 7L, 7C, 7R. This is a timer for automatically stopping the reels 3L, 3C, 3R without depending on the stop operation.

  For example, “35800” is set as the value of the automatic stop timer. The value of the automatic stop timer is decremented by one in a timer management process of an interrupt process performed every 1.1173 ms described later. Therefore, when “35800” is set, the value of the automatic stop timer becomes “0” after about 40 seconds (1.1173 ms × 35800).

  Subsequently, the CPU 31 requests the motor drive circuit 39 to start rotation of all reels (reels 3L, 3C, 3R) (step S12), and the motor drive circuit 39 sets all the reels (reels 3L, 3C, 3R). ).

  Next, a reel stop control process is performed (step S13). Specifically, when any one of the stop buttons 7L, 7C, and 7R is operated, the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R corresponding to the stop buttons 7L, 7C, and 7R that have been stopped are stopped based on the stop table. . At this time, a “reel stop command” is transmitted to the sub-control circuit 72. The “reel stop command” includes stop reel, stop position information, and the like. Details of the reel stop control process will also be described later.

  When all the stop buttons 7L, 7C, and 7R are operated and all the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R are stopped, the display combination and the number of payouts are determined based on the symbol combination table (step S14). In this process, the display combination (the combination in which the winning combination is established) is identified on the basis of the pattern stop mode of the display windows 4L, 4C, 4R, and the display combination flag is set. Specifically, the display combination and the payout number are identified based on the code number of the symbols arranged along the active line, the symbol combination table, and the number of inserted symbols.

  Next, a display combination command is transmitted to the sub control circuit 72 (step S15). The “display combination command” includes information on a display combination flag for specifying a display combination, information on the number of payouts, and the like.

  Next, a medal payout process is performed (step S16). In this medal payout process, in the credit mode, the credit counter set in the RAM 33 is updated based on the payout number information. The value of the credit counter in the credit display unit 19 is displayed based on the update of the credit counter. In the payout mode, the hopper 40 is driven and controlled by the hopper drive circuit 41 to pay out medals based on the payout number information. Further, if the display combination is replay, the CPU 31 turns on the replay operating flag. Further, the CPU 31 updates the number of acquired medals. Thereafter, the CPU 31 transmits a payout end command to the sub control circuit 72. This payout end command includes information indicating that the payout of medals has been completed.

  Next, the CPU 31 updates the value of the bonus end number counter based on the payout number (step S17). Here, if the value of the bonus end number counter is “1” or more, the value of the counter is subtracted according to the number of medals paid out.

  Next, the CPU 31 refers to a predetermined storage area of the RAM 33 to check the BB operating flag and the RB operating flag (step S18), and if the BB operating flag or the RB operating flag is “ON”. Then, a bonus end check process is performed (step S19). The bonus end check process will be described later.

  If both the BB operating flag and the RB operating flag are “off” (determined in step S18), the bonus operation check process is performed (step S20) when the bonus end check process (step S19) ends. The bonus operation check process will also be described later.

  When the bonus operation check process (step S20) ends, the process returns to the one-game end initialization process (step S2 in FIG. 14).

  Next, FIG. 16 shows a flowchart of the bonus operation monitoring process, which will be described. FIG. 16 shows the details of the bonus operation monitoring process (step S3 in FIG. 14) of the main control circuit 71.

  First, the CPU 31 checks whether or not the BB operating flag is “ON” (step S31). If the BB operating flag is not “ON”, the bonus operation monitoring process is terminated.

  If the BB operating flag is “ON”, it is checked whether or not the RB operating flag is “ON” (step S32). If the RB operating flag is “ON”, the bonus operation monitoring process is terminated.

  If the RB operating flag is not “ON”, the RB operating process is performed based on the bonus operating table (step S33). Specifically, the RB operating flag is set to “ON”, the game possible number counter is set to “12”, and the winning possible number counter is set to “8”.

  Next, FIGS. 17 and 18 show a flowchart of medal acceptance / start check processing, which will be described. 17 and 18 show details of the medal acceptance / start check process (step S4 in FIG. 14) of the main control circuit 71. FIG.

  First, in the medal acceptance / start check process, a demonstration timer is set (step S41). Specifically, “40000” is set in the demonstration timer. This value is subtracted in a timer management process in a periodic interrupt process, which will be described later. When this value becomes "0", the sub-control circuit 72 is controlled to display a demonstration video or the like. .

  Next, it is determined whether or not the medal acceptance is permitted (step S42). If the medal reception is not permitted, the process proceeds to the insertion number counter determination process (step S51). If the medal acceptance is permitted, it is determined whether or not the inserted medal switch is “ON” (step S43). If the inserted medal switch is not “ON”, a credit insertion process is performed (step S44), and the process proceeds to a determination process of the inserted number counter (step S51). In this credit insertion process, it is determined whether or not the BET switch is “ON”. If the BET switch is “ON”, the credit of the stored medal is determined according to the type of the BET switch. The credit for the designated BET number is subtracted from the number of sheets, and the insertion number counter is updated.

  If the inserted medal switch is “ON”, “1” is added to the inserted number counter (step S45). In the case of medal insertion prohibition (insertion number counter update prohibition), a credit counter is added instead of the insertion number counter.

  Subsequently, a bet command transmission process is performed for the sub-control circuit 72 (step S46). Then, “1” is added to the effective line counter (step S47).

  Next, it is determined whether or not the RB operation flag is “ON” (step S48). If the RB operating flag is not “ON”, it is determined whether or not the inserted number is “3” (step S49). If the number of inserted sheets is not “3”, the process proceeds to a determination process of the inserted sheet counter (step S51). If the number of inserted sheets is “3” or the RB operating flag is “ON” in the determination process of the RB operating flag, an input number counter update prohibiting process is performed (step S50).

  Next, in the insertion number counter determination process, it is determined whether or not the insertion number counter is “1” or more (step S51). If the inserted number counter is “1” or more, the process proceeds to start switch determination processing (step S56). If the inserted number counter is not “1” or more, that is, if the inserted number counter is “0” and no medal is inserted, it is determined whether or not the demonstration timer is “0” (step S52).

  If the demonstration timer is not "0", the process returns to the medal acceptance permission determination process (step S42). If the demonstration timer is “0”, a demonstration command is transmitted to the sub-control circuit 72 (step S55), and the process returns to the medal acceptance permission determination process (step S42).

  Further, as described above, when the insertion number counter is “1” or more in the determination process of the insertion number counter, it is determined whether or not the start switch is “ON” (step S56). If the start switch is not “ON”, the process returns to the medal acceptance permission determination process (step S42) and the above process is repeated. If the start switch is “ON”, a medal acceptance prohibition process is performed (step S57). Specifically, even if a medal is inserted from the medal insertion slot 22, the medal inserted from the medal return slot is spit out so that the medal cannot be accepted.

  Next, FIGS. 19 and 20 are flowcharts showing the internal lottery process. 19 and 20 show details of the internal lottery process (step S7 in FIG. 14) of the main control circuit 71.

  First, the CPU 31 refers to the internal lottery table determination table (see FIG. 5), determines the type of the internal lottery table and the number of lotteries based on the gaming state (step S61), and determines the determined lottery number in the register of the CPU 31. Set to the counter.

  Next, it is determined whether or not the carryover combination storage area is “0” (step S62). If the carryover combination storage area is not “0” by this determination, that is, if the carryover combination flag is set (set to “1”), the number of lotteries is changed to “4” (step S63). Here, since the carryover combination is generated only in the general gaming state, the number of lotteries is changed to “4” only when the internal lottery table for the general gaming state is selected.

  Next, the same value as the number of lotteries is set as the winning number (step S65).

  Next, the random number value stored in the random number value storage area of the RAM 33 is compared with the lower limit value corresponding to the winning number and the value of the inserted number counter (step S66). Specifically, referring to the determined internal lottery table, the lower limit value (L) is acquired based on the number of lotteries and the number of inserted lots, and the random value (R) stored in the random value storage area in the RAM 33 is acquired. ), The lower limit (L) is subtracted (RL).

  Next, it is determined whether or not the random number value is equal to or greater than a lower limit value (step S67). Specifically, it is determined whether or not a value (R−L) obtained by subtracting the lower limit value from the random number value is “0” or a positive value. When this determination is “YES”, the process proceeds to step S68, and when “NO”, the process proceeds to step S74.

  In step S68, the random number value stored in the random number value storage area is compared with the upper limit value corresponding to the winning number and the value of the inserted number counter. Specifically, referring to the determined internal lottery table, the upper limit value (U) is obtained based on the number of lotteries and the number of inserted lots, and the random number value (R) stored in the random value storage area in the RAM 33 is acquired. ), The upper limit value (U) is subtracted (RU).

  Next, it is determined whether or not the random number value is less than or equal to an upper limit value (step S69). Specifically, it is determined whether or not a value (R−U) obtained by subtracting the upper limit value from the random number value is “0” or a negative value. When this determination is “YES”, the process proceeds to step S70, and when “NO”, the process proceeds to step S74.

  In step S70, the winning number is stored in the winning number storage area. The winning number storage area is provided in the RAM 33 and is the same as the internal winning combination storing area. By setting each bit corresponding to the winning number (to “1”), all the winning numbers are obtained. It is to be able to grasp.

  Next, with reference to the internal winning combination determination table, an internal winning combination is determined based on the gaming state and the winning number (step S71). Next, a logical product of the internal winning combination and bonus check data is calculated, and a logical sum with the carryover combination storage area is stored in the carryover combination storage area (step S72). In other words, it becomes effective as a carryover combination only when the current internal winning combination is a bonus (“BB”), and when another small combination is an internal winning combination, it is already stored as a carryover combination ( Only bonus) is carried over as carryover. Next, the logical sum of the internal winning combination and the carryover combination storing area is stored in the internal winning combination storing area (step S73).

  Next, 1 is subtracted from the number of lotteries (step S74).

  Next, it is determined whether or not the number of lotteries is “0” (step S76). When this determination is “YES”, the process proceeds to step S77, and when “NO”, the process returns to step S65. Here, when this determination is “YES”, whether or not the random number value R is included in the numerical range defined by the upper limit value U and the lower limit value L for all the winning numbers that need to be determined. If “NO” is determined, the winning number that needs to be determined still remains.

  In step S77, the internal winning combination determination table is referred to, and an internal winning combination is determined based on the gaming state and the winning number stored in the winning number storage area.

  Next, the logical sum of the internal winning combination and the internal winning combination storing area is stored in the internal winning combination storing area (step S78). Subsequently, a logical sum of the internal winning combination storing area and the carryover combination storing area is stored in the internal winning combination storing area (step S79).

  Next, FIG. 21 shows a flowchart of the reel stop control process, which will be described. FIG. 21 shows details of the reel stop control process (step S13 in FIG. 15) of the main control circuit 71.

  First, the CPU 31 determines whether any one of the stop buttons 7L, 7C, and 7R has been operated effectively (step S401). Specifically, it is determined whether or not a stop signal is output from the reel stop signal circuit 46 based on the operation of the stop buttons 7L, 7C, and 7R. When this determination is “YES”, the process proceeds to step S405.

  If none of the stop buttons 7L, 7C, and 7R is operated effectively, it is determined whether or not the value of the automatic stop timer is “0” (step S402). If the value of the automatic stop timer is not “0”, the process returns to step S401.

  If the value of the automatic stop timer is “0”, an automatic stop process described later is performed (step S404), and the process proceeds to step S405. In the automatic stop process, an automatic stop flag is set.

  In step S405, a slip frame number determination process described later is performed. In the sliding frame number determination process, the number of sliding frames corresponding to the state is determined.

  Next, the CPU 31 transmits a reel stop command to the sub control circuit 72 (step S406). This reel stop command includes a reel stop identifier and a reel rotation identifier. The reel stop identifier is information indicating which of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R is to be stopped. The reel rotation identifier is information indicating the reel state ("rotating" or "stopping"), and is set as "1" during rotation and "0" during stop.

  Next, the process waits for the target reel 3 to move by the number of sliding frames (step S407), and outputs a request to stop the reel 3 (step S408).

  Next, the CPU 31 determines whether or not there is a rotating reel (whether all reels have stopped) (step S409). If this determination is “YES”, the process returns to step S401, and if “NO”, the reel stop control process is terminated.

  Next, FIG. 22 shows a flowchart of the automatic stop process, which will be described. FIG. 22 shows details of the automatic stop process (step S404 in FIG. 21) of the reel stop control process.

  First, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the target reel 3 is the left reel 3L (step S421). If the target reel 3 is the left reel 3L, “losing” is set as the display combination determination data (step S422). If the target reel 3 is not the left reel 3L (the middle reel 3C or the right reel 3R). Then, “losing” and “cherry” are set as display combination determination data (step S423).

  Next, a symbol position is acquired, and a display combination is predicted (step S424). Subsequently, the expected result is compared with the display combination determination data (step S425). Based on the comparison, it is determined whether or not the symbol position can be stopped (step S426). If it is a symbol position that can be stopped, the process proceeds to step S428. If it is not a symbol position that can be stopped, it is determined whether or not all symbols have been checked (step S427). If all the symbols have not been checked, the process returns to step S424. If all the symbols have been checked, the process proceeds to step S428.

  In step S428, the automatic stop flag is set to “ON”, and the automatic stop process is terminated.

  Next, FIGS. 23 and 24 show a flowchart of the sliding frame number determination process, which will be described. 23 and 24 show details of the slip frame number determination process (step S405 in FIG. 21) of the reel stop control process.

  First, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the value of the carryover combination storage area is “0” (step S441). If the value of the carryover combination storage area is “0”, the process proceeds to step S452 to perform processing when there is no carryover combination.

  If the value of the carryover combination storage area is not “0”, it is determined whether or not the automatic stop flag is “on” (step S442). If the automatic stop flag is “ON”, the process proceeds to step S445. If the automatic stop flag is not “ON”, it is determined whether or not it is the third stop (step S443). If it is the third stop, the process proceeds to step S450, and if it is not the third stop, the process proceeds to step S445.

  In step S445, it is determined whether or not the target reel 3 is the left reel 3L (step S445). If the target reel 3 is not the left reel 3L, the process proceeds to step S447. If the target reel 3 is the left reel 3L, the number of sliding frames is determined by giving priority to the symbol “large” (step S446), and the sliding frame number determination process is terminated.

  When the target reel 3 is not the left reel 3L, it is determined whether or not the target reel 3 is the middle reel 3C (step S447). If the target reel 3 is not the middle reel 3C, the process proceeds to step S449. If the target reel 3 is the middle reel 3C, the number of sliding symbols is determined with priority given to the symbol “T” (step S442), and the number of sliding symbols determination process is terminated.

  When the target reel 3 is not the middle reel 3C, the number of sliding frames is determined by giving priority to the symbol “ri” (step S449), and the sliding frame number determining process is terminated.

  In step S450, the number of sliding symbols is determined based on the internal winning combination, the carryover combination, and the stop operation position, and the sliding frame number determination process is terminated. At this time, the number of sliding symbols is determined so that the combination of the symbols “Large”, “To” and “Ri” does not stop on the winning line. As a result, even when the combination of symbols such as “BB” is stopped without being drawn, the stop mode is different from the stop appearance at the time of automatic stop.

  When the value of the carryover combination storage area is “0” (determined in step S441), it is determined whether or not the automatic stop flag is “on” (step S452). If the automatic stop flag is not “ON”, the number of sliding symbols is determined based on the internal winning combination and the stop operation position (step S458), and the sliding frame number determination processing is terminated.

  If the automatic stop flag is “ON”, it is determined whether or not it is the third stop (step S453). If it is the third stop, the process proceeds to step S456.

  If it is not the third stop, “0” is determined as the number of sliding frames (step S454), and the sliding frame number determination processing is terminated.

  If it is the third stop (determined in step S453), the number of sliding symbols is determined based on the display combination determination data and the current symbol position (step S456), and the sliding frame number determining process is terminated.

  With the above processing, when the value of the carryover combination storage area is not “0” and the automatic stop flag is “on”, the symbols “Large”, “To” and “Ri” are displayed on the respective display windows 4L, 4C, 4R. When the value of the carryover combination storage area is “0”, the stop symbol is determined based on “losing”, the internal winning combination, or the stop operation position.

  Therefore, the player can know the presence / absence of the carryover combination by observing what kind of stop mode is brought about when the player is automatically stopped.

  Next, FIG. 25 shows a flowchart of the bonus end check process, which will be described. FIG. 25 shows details of the bonus end check processing (step S19 in FIG. 15) of the main control circuit 71.

  First, the CPU 31 determines whether or not a winning is established (step S91). If no winning is established, the process proceeds to step S97.

  If a winning is established, it is determined whether or not the bonus end number counter is “0” (step S92). If the bonus end number counter is not “0”, the process proceeds to step S95.

  If the bonus end number counter is “0”, processing at the end of RB is performed (step S93). Specifically, the RB operation flag is set to “off”, and the values of the game possible number counter and the winning possible number counter are cleared.

  Subsequently, BB end time processing is performed (step S94). Specifically, the BB operating flag is set to “off”.

  When the process at the end of the BB ends, the bonus end check process ends.

  If the value of the bonus end number counter is not “0” (determined in step S92), the value of the winning possible number counter is decremented by “1” (step S95).

  Next, it is determined whether or not the value of the possible winning number counter is “0” (step S96). If the value of the possible winning number counter is “0”, the process proceeds to step S99.

  In this determination, if the value of the possible winning number counter is not “0” or the winning is not established (determined in step S91), the value of the possible game number counter is decremented by “1” (step S97).

  Next, it is determined whether or not the value of the possible game number counter is “0” (step S98). If the value of the possible game number counter is not “0”, the bonus end check process is terminated.

  In this determination, if the value of the possible game number counter is “0” or the value of the winning number counter is “0” (determined in step S96), an RB end process is performed (step S96). S99), the bonus end check process is ended.

  Next, FIG. 26 shows a flowchart of the bonus operation check process, which will be described. FIG. 26 shows details of the bonus operation check process (step S20 in FIG. 15) of the main control circuit 71.

  First, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the display combination is “BB” (step S111). If the display combination is not “BB”, the bonus operation check process is terminated.

  When the display combination is “BB”, the BB operation time process is performed based on the bonus operation time table (step S112). Specifically, the BB operating flag is set to “ON”, and “350” is set to the bonus end number counter.

  Next, the carryover combination storage area is cleared (step S113), and the bonus operation check process is terminated.

  Next, FIG. 27 shows a flowchart of the periodic interrupt process, which will be described. This periodic interrupt processing is periodically performed by the main control circuit 71 every 1.1173 ms.

  First, the CPU 31 temporarily saves data stored in a register used in the internal lottery process (step S7 in FIG. 14) to a predetermined area of the RAM 33 (step S201).

  Next, the CPU 31 performs an input port check process (step S202). In this input port check process, input operations such as detection of a medal insertion by the insertion medal sensor 22S when a medal is inserted from the medal insertion slot 22, and detection of a start operation by the start switch 6S by pressing the start lever 6 are confirmed. .

  Next, the CPU 31 adds “1” to the interrupt counter (step S203). This interrupt counter is used to determine whether to perform reel control or only drive control of lamps and LEDs in the periodic interrupt processing.

  Next, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the value of the interrupt counter is an even number (step S204). If this determination is “YES”, the process proceeds to step S211, and if “NO”, the process proceeds to step S205.

  If the value of the interrupt counter is not an even number, that is, if the value of the interrupt counter is an odd number, the identifier of the left reel 3L is set as a target for rotation control (step S205), and a reel control process is performed (step S206). Next, the identifier of the middle reel 3C is set as a target for rotation control (step S207), and reel control processing is performed (step S208). Next, the identifier of the right reel 3R is set as a target for rotation control (step S209), and reel control processing is performed (step S210).

  Specifically, information indicating the reel to be controlled (one of the left reel 3L, the middle reel 3C, and the right reel 3R) is identified as a reel identifier (for example, left “0”, middle “1”, right “2”). And the motor drive circuit 39 is commanded to control the drive of the reel. Details of the reel control process will be described later.

  In step S211, the CPU 31 performs a lamp / 7SEG driving process for driving lamps and LEDs. In this lamp / 7SEG driving process, the CPU 31 gives a command for displaying, for example, the number of medals stored (credited), the number of paid-out medals, etc. on the credit display unit 19 and the payout display unit 18 in a predetermined RAM 33. Write to storage area. In addition, the CPU 31 stores a command for turning on the BET lamps 9a, 9b, and 9c according to the number of medals bet, a command for turning on the WIN lamp 17 provided on the front surface of the cabinet 2, and the like in a predetermined storage area of the RAM 33. Write to. These commands are transmitted to the sub-control circuit 72.

  Next, the CPU 31 performs a timer management process (step S212). In this timer management process, a demo timer subtraction process is performed. If the player does not play the game due to the subtraction process of the demo timer, the demo timer is counted down, and when the previous game ends (more precisely, step S41 of the medal acceptance / start check process of FIG. 17). After about 40 seconds, it becomes “0”, a demo command is transmitted to the sub-control circuit 72, and a demonstration video is displayed. Further, as described above, in the timer management process, the value of the automatic stop timer is also subtracted.

  Finally, the CPU 31 restores the data stored in the register saved at the beginning of the periodic interrupt process (step S201) from the predetermined area of the RAM 33 (step S213).

  Next, FIG. 28 shows a flowchart of the reel control process, which will be described. FIG. 28 shows details of the reel control processing (step S206, step S208, step S210 in FIG. 27) in the periodic interrupt processing of the main control circuit 71.

  First, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the reel is controlled to rotate at a constant speed (step S221). If it is not under control, the reel control process is terminated.

  If the reel is being controlled, it is determined whether or not the reel is waiting for a planned stop position (step S222). In this standby position waiting state, constant speed control of the reel is maintained. If this determination is “YES”, the process proceeds to step S223, and if “NO”, the process proceeds to step S225.

  In step S223, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the reel has reached the planned stop position based on the signal from the reel position detection circuit 50. If this determination is “YES”, the process proceeds to step S224, and if “NO”, the process proceeds to step S225.

  In step S224, the CPU 31 shifts the reel from the constant speed control state to the deceleration control state. Thereafter, stop control is performed with all phases of the stepping motors 49L, 49C, 49R of the reel set to “off”.

  In step S225, the CPU 31 performs reel rotation acceleration control, constant speed control, or deceleration control in accordance with the reel control state. From the above processing, the reel control processing is completed.

  Hereinafter, a specific pattern stop mode is shown and described.

  FIG. 29 illustrates a reel stop mode when “BB” is a carryover combination and automatic stop is performed.

  If automatic stop is performed while carrying over "BB", the number of sliding symbols is determined giving priority to the symbol "Large" for the left reel 3L, symbol "To" for the middle reel 3C, and symbol "Ri" for the right reel 3R. . Therefore, for example, as shown in FIG. 29, “Large”, “To” and “Ri” are arranged in the middle, and the player can be suggested that he / she has won “BB”.

  Next, FIG. 30 shows a reel stop mode when an automatic stop is performed when there is no carryover combination.

  If an automatic stop is performed when there is no carryover combination, the number of sliding symbols is “0” in the first stop and the second stop, and the display combination is “lost” in the third stop. Therefore, for example, as shown in FIG. 30, the left middle right push is performed, and “red 7”, “watermelon” and “replay” are stopped from the upper stage to the left reel 3L, and “replay” is stopped from the upper stage to the middle reel 3C. Even if “Red 7”, “Watermelon” and “Replay” are stopped and automatically stopped at the stop timing of “Red 7” on the upper stage of the right reel 3R, one slip occurs, and in this state, “ Since “Replay” is complete, another one is slid from the top to “Ri”, “Ri”, and “Red 7”.

  In addition, the determination of the number of sliding frames is not necessarily determined by shifting one frame at a time, but here, for the sake of easy understanding of the description, the number of sliding frames is shifted by one frame.

  According to the pachislot machine 1 according to the embodiment of the present invention, when the value of the carryover combination storage area is not “0” and the automatic stop flag is “on”, the reels 3L, 3C, 3R The symbols “Large”, “To” and “Ri” are prioritized and stopped. This configuration corresponds to an embodiment of the present invention according to claim 1.

  With this configuration, if the “big hit” symbol is displayed when the reel 3 is stopped regardless of the stop operation, the player can be notified that “BB” has been won. Thereby, the privilege at the time of automatically stopping the reel 3 is generated, and the interest of the player can be improved.

  Further, according to the pachislot machine 1 according to the embodiment of the present invention, when the automatic stop flag is not “ON”, the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R are set to “Large”, “This”, “R”. The combination of symbols is not displayed on the winning line. This configuration corresponds to an embodiment of the present invention according to claim 2.

  With this configuration, when a stop operation is performed, a combination of symbols of “Large”, “Win”, and “Ri” is not displayed on the winning line. Therefore, in order to display the “big hit” symbol, it is indispensable to perform automatic stop. As a result, when an automatic stop is performed in a state where the BB is carried over, it is suggested that the BB is carried over, so that a privilege is given at the time of the automatic stop, which increases the interest in the game. it can.

  In the present embodiment, “large”, “this”, “ri” is used as a symbol that suggests that there is a carryover role, but is not limited to this, and a symbol that suggests a carryover role, and The symbol combination can be set as appropriate. In this case, the same effect as the above gaming machine can be obtained.

  Also, in this embodiment, when it is not an automatic stop, a symbol that suggests that there is a carryover combination, “Large”, “This”, “Ri” is not displayed. You may make it display the other symbol which suggests that there is a role. At this time, although it is a symbol that suggests that there is a carryover combination, a symbol that is less likely to suggest that there is a carryover combination may be displayed than the symbol in the case of automatic stop. In this case, the same effect as the above gaming machine can be obtained.

  In the present embodiment, the symbols “Large”, “Win” and “Ri” are arranged within the range of 4 frames on each reel. However, the present invention is not limited to this. A symbol may be arranged so that it is not possible. For example, the above symbols may be arranged on each reel one by one. In this case, the number of sliding frames may be larger than 4 frames only during automatic stop. As a result, a lot of symbols related to winning can be placed instead of the above symbols, so that benefits can be given at the time of automatic stop and dropping can be reduced, and when the rotation of the reel is stopped by a stop operation There will be no loss, and the interest in games will increase. In this case, the same effect as the above gaming machine can be obtained.

  Furthermore, in the present embodiment, the pachislot machine 1 is illustrated as an example. However, the present invention is not limited to this example. A game can be executed by applying the invention. In this case, the same effect as the pachislot machine 1 described above can be obtained.

It is a perspective view which shows the external appearance of the game machine in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the symbol arrangement | positioning table in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the symbol combination table in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the table at the time of the bonus action | operation in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the internal lottery table determination table in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the internal lottery table for general gaming states in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the internal lottery table for RB game states in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the internal winning combination determination table in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the bonus check data in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the internal winning combination storing area | region in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the carryover combination storage area | region in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the electric circuit containing the main control circuit in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the sub control circuit in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the process by the main control circuit in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the process by the main control circuit following FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the bonus operation | movement monitoring process in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the medal reception and start check process in one Embodiment of this invention. 18 is a flowchart showing medal acceptance / start check processing subsequent to FIG. 17; It is a flowchart which shows the internal lottery process of the main control circuit in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the internal lottery process following FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the reel stop control process in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the automatic stop process in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the sliding frame number determination process in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the sliding frame number determination process following FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the bonus completion | finish check process in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the bonus operation | movement check process in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the regular interruption process in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the reel control process of the periodic interruption process in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a reel stop mode figure at the time of performing automatic stop when there is a carryover combination in one embodiment of the present invention. It is a reel stop mode figure at the time of performing an automatic stop when there is no carryover combination in one Embodiment of this invention.

Explanation of symbols

1 Pachislot machine 2 Cabinet 3L, 3C, 3R Reel 4L, 4C, 4R Display window 5 Liquid crystal display device 6 Start lever 7L, 7C, 7R Stop button 8a, 8b, 8c, 8d, 8e Effective line 9a, 9b, 9c BET lamp DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 Base part 11 1-BET switch 12 2-BET switch 13 Maximum BET switch 14 C / P switch 15 Medal payout exit 16 Medal receiving part 17 WIN lamp 18 Payout display part 19 Credit display part 20 Bonus game information display part 21L, 21R Speaker 22 Medal slot 23 Dividend table panel 24 Operation keys 30 Microcomputer 31 CPU
32 ROM
33 RAM
34 Clock pulse generation circuit 35 Frequency divider 36 Random number generator 37 Sampling circuit 39 Motor drive circuit 40 Hopper 41 Hopper drive circuit 46 Reel stop signal circuit 49L, 49C, 49R Stepping motor 50 Reel position detection circuit 51 Dispensing completion signal circuit 71 Main Control circuit 72 Sub control circuit 73 Sound / lamp control circuit 74 Sound / lamp control CPU
75 Program ROM
76 Work RAM
77 Serial port 78 Sound source IC
79 Power Amplifier 80 Image Control Circuit 81 Serial Port 82 Image Control CPU
83 Image control work RAM
84 Image control program ROM
85 Calendar IC
86 Image ROM
87 Video RAM
88 Image control IC
89 Control RAM
91 Sound source ROM
92 Volume control section

Claims (2)

A plurality of reels each having a plurality of symbols arranged on the circumferential surface;
A symbol display means for displaying each of a plurality of symbols out of a plurality of symbols respectively arranged on the peripheral surfaces of the plurality of reels;
Start operation detecting means for detecting a start operation for changing the plurality of symbols displayed by the symbol display means;
A symbol changing means for changing the plurality of symbols displayed on the symbol display means based on the start operation detected by the start operation detecting means;
A winning combination determining means for determining a winning combination based on the fact that the starting operation is detected by the starting operation detecting means;
Stop operation detecting means for detecting a stop operation for stopping fluctuations of a plurality of symbols performed by the symbol changing means;
Based on the fact that the start operation is detected by the start operation detection means, the time measuring means for measuring a predetermined time;
When a predetermined winning combination advantageous to the player is determined by the winning combination determining means, until a combination of symbols corresponding to the predetermined winning combination is displayed at a predetermined position by the symbol display means Information storage means for storing information relating to the predetermined winning combination;
The stop operation is detected by the stop operation detecting means and the winning combination determined by the winning combination determining means and the winning combination stored in the information storage means, or a predetermined time is counted by the timing means. And stop control means for stopping the fluctuation of the symbol being performed by the symbol fluctuation means,
A determination means for determining whether the symbol is stopped by the stop control means and the symbol displayed at a predetermined position on the symbol display means corresponds to a predetermined symbol combination;
With
The stop control means stores information related to a predetermined winning combination by the information storage means, and the symbol display means notifies the predetermined winning combination when a predetermined time is counted by the timing means. The gaming machine is characterized in that the variation of the symbols is stopped so as to display the specific symbol combination at the predetermined position. In the gaming machine according to claim 1,
When the stop operation is detected by the stop operation detecting means before the predetermined time is measured by the time measuring means, the symbol display means is different from the combination of the specific symbols. The gaming machine is characterized in that the variation of the symbol is stopped so that the combination is displayed at the predetermined position.

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