JP2007301085A - Slot machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a slot machine which can wipe out a suspicion felt by players for the specified game by guaranteeing dividends regardless of the win or loss of the specified game. <P>SOLUTION: A CPU 106 of the slot machine 10 displays game images pertaining to the specified game on a display surface 31a of a liquid crystal display device 30 associated with the execution of the specified game. A battle is made against an opponent character as one symbol out of basic games using one item selected with a touch switch operated by a main character 81. An internal lottery is executed to determine the result of the battle in the battle game and game images are displayed according to the result of the battle. When the win by the main character 81 is determined, the first dividend is awarded or when the loss by the main character 81 is determined, the second dividend lower than the first dividend is awarded. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2008,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a slot machine capable of executing a specific game such as a mini game in addition to a basic game in which predetermined symbols are arranged.

  As a typical example of the above slot machine, the one proposed in Patent Document 1 can be cited.

  The slot machine disclosed in Patent Document 1 is configured to generate a mini game as a specific game that can be executed by a player's selection separately from a so-called “replay removal” game during a bonus game.

The mini-game (specific game) that can be executed in this slot machine reproduces a specific symbol on the sub-symbol display unit by operating the sub-symbol stop unit in accordance with an instruction displayed on the sub-symbol display unit. If such a mini-game is successful, the same effect as when the “replay removal” game is successful is achieved without performing the push-out game required for the “replay removal” game.
JP 2003-190388 A

  However, in the slot machine according to Patent Document 1, the above-mentioned mini game (hereinafter sometimes simply referred to as “mini game”) is used as a specific game, so that it can contribute as much as possible. However, the following problems have been pointed out.

  Specifically, in the slot machine according to Patent Document 1, not only when the mini game is failed, but also when the mini game is successful, the payout is not performed. In other words, even if the mini-game is successful, the game state only becomes a state where the “replay removal” game is successful, and there is no payout at that time. Therefore, despite the use of mini-games, players are less likely to be attracted to mini-games, and as a result, one of the important elements of a slot machine can be less interesting. There is no fact.

  Therefore, in order to enhance the interest of the above slot machine, it is conceivable that a specific game such as a mini game is configured so that a payout is always made even if there is a difference in level, regardless of whether the game is won or lost. Whether or not to win the specific game is entrusted to the result of electronic lottery inside the machine using random numbers or the like, as in the past. In the internal lottery for determining the winning or losing of the specific game, there is no room for the player to participate, and there is no way for the player to directly know the result. Therefore, even if it is configured so that a payout is always made when a specific game is executed, the player will be distrusted by the internal lottery of the specific game. How to wipe out remains an important proposition.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above technical problems, and the purpose of the present invention is to improve the interest of a slot machine by making sure that a payout is made regardless of whether the game is won or lost. To dispel the distrust of the player.

  In order to achieve the above object, the present inventor gives the player an impression that the player's intention is involved in winning or losing a specific game such as a mini game, and then pays a dividend according to the winning or losing. I was wondering if it should be done.

  Specific inventions based on the above idea are as follows.

  The present invention includes a plurality of symbol display means for performing variable display and stop display of a plurality of types of symbols necessary for a basic game for each column, and a game start receiving means for receiving a start operation of the basic game by a player for each game. , Triggered by the fact that the basic game start operation has been received by the game start receiving means, the symbol display means starts the variable display of symbols belonging to all columns, and then the symbol display means starts to display all the symbols. If the variable display of the symbols belonging to the column is stopped, and the combination of the stopped symbols at that time indicates a winning combination, a first game program that provides a game medium corresponding to the winning combination is read and the basic game is read out A first game control means for executing the main character and the opponent character when the predetermined condition is satisfied. A second game control means for executing a specific game separately from the basic game by reading a second game program for causing both characters to fight against each other and deciding their victory or defeat; a game related to the basic game and the specific game An image display means for displaying an image, and a game image related to the specific game is displayed by the image display means as the specific game is executed by the second game control means. A plurality of battle items used when the main character battles with the opponent character on a predetermined area surface of the display surface of the image display means, and the display areas of the plurality of battle items are displayed in the plurality of battle items. Touch switch means for selecting one battle item from the other battle items, and the player's intention In response to selecting the one battle item by operating the touch switch means based on the image, the main character is playing the opponent character using the selected battle item. A first effect means for displaying a game image on the display surface of the display means, and a battle game image of both the main character and the opponent character are displayed on the display surface of the image display means by the first effect means. The first lottery means for executing the internal lottery for determining the competition result in the specific game and the internal lottery by the first lottery means are completed, and the main character is based on the lottery result. A state in which the battle between the character and the opponent character ends is displayed as a game image on the display surface of the image display means. When the result of the battle between the main character and the opponent character is displayed on the display screen of the image display means by the effect means and the second effect means, the result of the internal lottery by the first lottery means A payout that gives a first payout when the main character is determined to win, and a second payout that is lower than the first payout when the main character is determined to lose Providing means.

  According to the above configuration, the first game control means reads the first game program and executes the basic game when the basic game start operation is accepted by the game start acceptance means. The first game program starts the variable display of symbols belonging to all columns by each symbol display means and then stops the variable display, and when the combination of the stop symbols at that time indicates a winning combination The game medium is programmed to give a game medium corresponding to the winning combination.

  On the other hand, when a predetermined condition is satisfied, the second game control means reads the second game program and executes the specific game separately from the basic game. The 2nd game program is programmed so that a hero character and an opponent character may appear, both characters may be made to fight, and the victory or defeat may be decided.

  Then, as the specific game is executed by the second game control means, the game image of the specific game is displayed by the image display means. At this time, the touch switch means has a predetermined area on the display surface of the image display means. A plurality of battle items used when the main character battles with the opponent character is displayed on the surface, and the display area of the plurality of battle items is made to function as a touch switch for selecting one battle item from the plurality of battle items. . When the player operates the touch switch based on the intention and selects the one battle item, the first rendering means is playing against the opponent character using the one battle item selected by the main character. Is displayed as a game image on the display surface of the image display means. While the battle game image of both the main character and the opponent character is displayed on the display surface of the image display means by the first rendering means, the first lottery means determines the battle result in the specific game. Run an internal lottery. When the internal lottery by the first lottery means ends, the second rendering means displays a game image on the display surface of the image display means that the battle between the hero character and the opponent character ends based on the lottery result. Display as. When the battle results of both the main character and the opponent character are displayed on the display screen of the image display means by the second rendering means, the payout giving means pays out the payout according to the result of the internal lottery by the first lottery means. Make. Specifically, a first payout is awarded when the main character is determined to win, and a second payout lower than the first payout is awarded when the main character is determined to lose.

  In this way, even if the specific game is won or lost, a payout is always made regardless of the difference in level, but as a trigger for an internal lottery that determines this victory or defeat, the main character battles against the opponent character in the specific game. Since the player uses the touch switch selection method to select the battle item to be used based on his / her intention, the impression that the player's intention is involved in the internal lottery of the above specific game To the player.

  In a certain aspect, the second game control means is provided on the condition that a specific character symbol to be the opponent character is included in a symbol group belonging to a column in which the symbol change display is finally stopped. The specific game is executed based on the second game program.

  In another aspect, the second game control means is provided on the condition that a specific character symbol to be the opponent character is included in a symbol group belonging to a column in which the symbol change display is finally stopped. Second lottery means for executing an internal lottery for determining whether or not to execute the specific game is further included.

  As described above, even when the specific character symbol that should be the opponent character is included in the symbol group that belongs to the column in which the symbol display is finally stopped, the specific game and the specific game are executed. May not be executed, it is possible to increase the expectation as if the game will shift to a specific game for a player who is viewing a specific character symbol. Can be increased.

  In the other aspect, the second game control means is determined to execute the specific game as a result of the execution determination internal lottery of the specific game being performed by the second lottery means. As a condition, the opponent character corresponding to the specific character symbol is displayed on the display surface of the image display means together with the main character from the specific character symbol.

  By the way, when a player plays a game in a slot machine, the line of sight of the player is focused on the change display and stop display of each symbol. Focusing on this, in the mechanical reel slot machine, the transparent liquid crystal panel is placed in front of the display window that displays the change and stop of the symbols of each mechanical reel. There is a lot going on.

  Therefore, in the slot machine, the first game control means rotates and stops the plurality of symbol display means in which the plurality of types of symbols are arranged using mechanical elements, thereby each symbol in the display window. The display means is configured to display the symbols in a variable manner and to be stopped. The image display means is provided so as to cover the display window, and a region corresponding to the display window is displayed on each symbol display. It is preferable that the transmissive area is provided so that the fluctuation and stop of the symbol of the means can be visually observed.

  In one aspect, the second game control means is configured such that when the final symbol display means stops, the specific character to be the opponent character in the stop display symbol group of the final symbol display means in the display window. The specific game is executed based on the second game program on condition that a symbol is included.

  In another aspect, when the final symbol display means stops, the second game control means has a specific symbol to be the opponent character in the stop display symbol group of the final symbol display means in the display window. It further includes second lottery means for executing an internal lottery for determining whether or not to execute the specific game on condition that a character symbol is included.

  As described above, even when the specific character symbol that should be the opponent character is included in the symbol group that belongs to the column in which the symbol display is finally stopped, the specific game and the specific game are executed. May not be executed, it is possible to increase the expectation as if the game will shift to a specific game for a player who is viewing a specific character symbol. Can be increased.

  In the other aspect, the second game control means is determined to execute the specific game as a result of the execution determination internal lottery of the specific game being performed by the second lottery means. As a condition, the opponent character corresponding to the specific character symbol is displayed on the display surface of the image display means together with the main character from the specific character symbol.

  By adopting the various configurations described above, it is possible to produce an effect as if the victory or defeat is determined by the battle item selected by the player in the specific game, thereby allowing the player to win a higher dividend than the specific game. The psychology that tries to get it works.

  In the present invention, the second game control unit displays a plurality of battle items having different reliability levels for the battle on a predetermined area of the display surface of the image display unit.

  In this way, by giving an impression that the reliability of the battle is different depending on the battle item selected by the player in the specific game, the player can obtain the winning / losing result of the battle in the specific game. This matches or differs from the player's imagination, creating a surprise in the game, and as a result, the player may enjoy the game more.

  According to the present invention, since the player is given an impression that the player's intention is involved in winning or losing the specific game, the payout according to the winning or losing is always made. When the interest of the slot machine is improved by making sure that a payout is made, it is possible to dispel the player's distrust of the result (win / loss) of the specific game.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

  With reference to FIG. 1, the slot machine 10 according to the embodiment of the present invention includes a housing 12 and a main door 42.

  The housing 12 has an open surface facing the player, and is installed, for example, at a predetermined place in a casino. Inside the housing 12, a control device 100 (see FIG. 7) for electrically controlling the slot machine 10 and a hopper 44 (see FIG. 7) for controlling the insertion, storage and payout of coins (game media). 7) and the like.

  The main door 42 is a member for covering the inside of the housing 12 so as not to be exposed to the outside. The main door 42 is pivotally attached to the left side when viewed from the front of the housing 12, and the main door 42 is rotated in the front-rear direction with the pivoted portion as a fulcrum, so that the opened state and the closed state are provided. It can be switched freely. A liquid crystal display device 30 is provided in the approximate center of the main door 42.

  The liquid crystal display device 30 is a means for displaying various images related to the game including effect images and notification images, and the player plays the game while visually recognizing the various images displayed on the liquid crystal display device 30. Go ahead. The liquid crystal display device 30 includes a transparent liquid crystal panel 34 (see FIGS. 4 and 5). The transparent liquid crystal panel 34 can be partially or entirely switched to a transparent / non-transparent state and can display various images. The detailed configuration of the liquid crystal display device 30 will be described later.

  On the back side of the liquid crystal display device 30, five mechanical reels 3A, 3B, 3C, 3D, and 3E (see FIG. 2 and FIG. 4) each having a plurality of types of symbols drawn on the outer peripheral surfaces are laterally rotated. It is provided in a row. The mechanical reels 3A to 3E are configured as a plurality of symbol display means together with stepping motors 45A, 45B, 45C, 45D, 45E (see FIG. 7) to be described later, and the outer peripheral surface thereof is necessary for the basic game. Various kinds of symbols are drawn. These various symbols on each of the mechanical reels 3A to 3E are visible when the transparent liquid crystal panel 34 is in a transparent state.

  A substantially horizontal operation unit 21 is provided below the liquid crystal display device 30. A coin insertion slot 22 for inserting coins into the slot machine 10 is provided on the right side of the operation unit 21. On the other hand, on the left side of the operation unit 21, it is determined which of 9 winning lines L1, L2, L3, L4, L5, L6, L7, L8, and L9, which will be described later, and the activated winning line is determined. A BET switch 23 for selecting the number of coins as a game medium to bet on a line (hereinafter simply referred to as “effective line”), and the number of coins bet on the above-mentioned effective line in the previous game A spin / repeat / bet switch 24 is provided to play the game again without any change. By pressing the BET switch 23 or the spin / repeat / bet switch 24, the number of coins bet on the active line is determined according to the operation.

  In the operation unit 21, a start switch 25 is provided on the left side of the BET switch 23 as a game start receiving unit that receives a player's basic game start operation for each game. A pressing operation on one of the start switch 25 and the spin / repeat / bet switch 24 serves as a trigger for starting the game, and the rotation of the five mechanical reels 3A to 3E is started in a predetermined manner.

  On the other hand, in the operation unit 21, a payout switch 26 is provided in the vicinity of the coin insertion slot 22. When the player presses the payout switch 26, the inserted coins are paid out from a coin payout opening 27 opened at the lower front of the main door 42, and the payout coins are stored in the coin tray 28. Above the coin tray 28 and on both the left and right sides of the coin payout port 27, sound effects emitted from the speakers 41 (see FIG. 7) housed in the housing 12 are transmitted to the outside of the housing 12. A sound transmission port 29 is provided for propagation to the outside.

  Referring to FIG. 2, the liquid crystal display device 30 includes a front panel 31 and a transparent liquid crystal panel 34 (see FIGS. 4 and 5) provided on the back surface of the front panel 31. The front panel 31 includes a transparent display surface 31a and a pattern formation region 31b on which a pattern is formed. The image information displayed on the transparent liquid crystal panel 34 provided on the back surface of the front panel 31 can be viewed through the display surface 31 a of the front panel 31. On the other hand, when the area of the transparent liquid crystal panel 34 covering the front of the five mechanical reels 3A to 3E is in a transparent state, the symbols of the five mechanical reels 3A to 3E are visually recognized via the display surface 31a. be able to.

  On the back side on the left side of the liquid crystal display device 30, various display units such as a payout number display unit 18, a credit number display unit 19, and a BET number display unit 20 are provided. In addition, as for the pattern formation area 31b of the front panel 31, the part which covers the front of the said various display parts 18-20 is transparent, and the display content of the said various display parts 18-20 is visually recognizable.

  The slot machine 10 has nine pay lines L1 to L9. These winning lines L1 to L9 extend so as to pass one symbol of each mechanical reel 3A to 3E when the rotation of all the mechanical reels 3A to 3E is stopped.

  Specifically, the first pay line L1 includes the upper symbol of the first mechanical reel 3A, the middle symbol of the second mechanical reel 3B, the lower symbol of the third mechanical reel 3C, It extends so as to pass through the middle symbol of the fourth mechanical reel 3D and the upper symbol of the fifth mechanical reel 3E.

  The second winning line L2 includes the upper symbol of the first mechanical reel 3A and the second mechanical reel 3B, the middle symbol of the third mechanical reel 3C, the fourth mechanical reel 3D and the fifth mechanical reel. It extends so as to pass through the lower symbol of the reel 3E.

  The third pay line L3 extends in a straight line along the horizontal direction so as to pass through the upper symbols of all the mechanical reels 3A to 3E.

  The fourth pay line L4 includes a middle symbol of the first mechanical reel 3A, a lower symbol of the second mechanical reel 3B, a middle symbol of the third mechanical reel 3C, and a fourth mechanical reel 3D. The upper symbol and the middle symbol of the fifth mechanical reel 3E extend so as to pass through.

  The fifth pay line L5 extends in a straight line along the horizontal direction so as to pass through the middle symbols of all the mechanical reels 3A to 3E.

  The sixth pay line L6 includes the middle symbol of the first mechanical reel 3A, the upper symbol of the second mechanical reel 3B, the middle symbol of the third mechanical reel 3C, and the fourth mechanical reel 3D. It extends so as to pass through the lower symbol and the middle symbol of the fifth mechanical reel 3E.

  The seventh winning line L7 extends in a straight line along the horizontal direction so as to pass through the symbols on the lower stage of all the mechanical reels 3A to 3E.

  The eighth pay line L8 includes a lower symbol of the first mechanical reel 3A and the second mechanical reel 3B, a middle symbol of the third mechanical reel 3C, a fourth mechanical reel 3D, and a fifth mechanical reel. It extends to pass through the upper symbol of the reel 3E.

  The ninth pay line L9 includes a lower symbol of the first mechanical reel 3A, a middle symbol of the second mechanical reel 3B, an upper symbol of the third mechanical reel 3C, and a fourth mechanical reel 3D. The middle symbol and the lower symbol of the fifth mechanical reel 3E extend so as to pass through.

  When the BET switch 23 is pressed once, for example, the third pay line L3, the fifth pay line L5, and the seventh pay line L7 are activated and one coin is taken in as a credit medal.

  When the BET switch 23 is pressed twice, in addition to the above three lines, for example, the first pay line L1, the fourth pay line L4, and the eighth pay line L8 are activated and two sheets are activated. Coins are taken in as credit medals.

  When the BET switch 23 is pressed three times, in addition to the above six lines, for example, the second winning line L2, the sixth winning line L6, and the ninth winning line L9 are activated and three sheets are displayed. Coins are taken in as credit medals.

  The payout number display unit 18 is for displaying the number of coins to be paid out when winning is established. The credit amount display section 19 is for displaying the number of coin credits stored in the slot machine 10. The BET number display unit 20 is for displaying a BET number that is the number of bet coins on the active line. The various display units 18 to 20 include a 7-segment display. Alternatively, the various display units 18 to 20 may display images on the transparent liquid crystal panel 34.

  Referring to FIG. 3, each of mechanical reels 3 </ b> A to 3 </ b> E is supported on reel frame 54 so as to be independently rotatable. Although not shown, the reel frame 54 is provided with stepping motors 45A to 45E (described later) for rotating and stopping the mechanical reels 3A to 3E. The reel frame 54 is installed between an upper frame 52 and a lower frame 53 attached to the main body frame 55.

  4 and 5, the liquid crystal display device 30 functions as an image display unit that displays game images related to the basic game and the specific game. Therefore, the liquid crystal display device 30 includes a front panel 31 having a touch panel 32 and a display plate 33, a transparent liquid crystal panel 34, a light guide plate 35, a reflective film 36, and fluorescent lamps 37a, 37b and 38a, 38b which are so-called white light sources. , Lamp holders 39a, 39b, 39c, 39d, 39e, 39f, 39g, 39h and a table carrier package (TCP) on which an IC for driving a transparent liquid crystal panel is mounted. Although not particularly shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the TCP is constituted by a flexible substrate (not shown) connected to the terminal portion of the transparent liquid crystal panel 34.

  The liquid crystal display device 30 is provided in front of the display area of the mechanical reels 3A to 3E (front side of the display surface 31a) across the mechanical reels 3A to 3E. The mechanical reels 3 </ b> A to 3 </ b> E and the liquid crystal display device 30 are provided at a predetermined interval.

  The touch panel 32 is made of a transparent member. The display board 33 is comprised by the transparent member, and the picture etc. are formed in this display board 33 in the position etc. corresponding to the area | region between said various display parts 18-20. That is, the area where the pattern or the like of the display board 33 is formed is the pattern formation area 31b of the front panel 31, and the area where the pattern or the like of the display board 33 is not formed is the display surface 31a of the front panel 31. (See FIG. 2). Alternatively, the entire surface of the front panel 31 may be used as the display surface 31a without forming the pattern formation region 31b on the front panel 31. In this case, no pattern is formed on the display board 33 or the display board 33 may be omitted.

  4 and 5, it is noted that electrical circuits that operate the various display units 18 to 20 arranged on the back side of the display plate 33 are not shown.

  The transparent liquid crystal panel 34 is formed by sealing liquid crystal in a gap between a transparent substrate such as a glass plate on which a thin film transistor layer is formed and a transparent substrate facing the transparent substrate. The display mode of the transparent liquid crystal panel 34 is set to normally white. “Normally white” means white display (light transmitted to the display surface side is visible from the outside) in a state where the liquid crystal is not driven. As described above, by adopting the transparent liquid crystal panel 34 set to normally white, even when a situation where the liquid crystal cannot be driven occurs, the symbols of the mechanical reels 3A to 3E are displayed in a variable manner. Since the stop display can be visually recognized, the player can continue the game. That is, even when the above situation occurs, it is possible to play a game centered on the symbol variable display mode and stop display mode on each of the mechanical reels 3A to 3E.

  The light guide plate 35 is for guiding light from the fluorescent lamps 37a and 37b to the transparent liquid crystal panel 34 (in other words, illuminating the transparent liquid crystal panel 34), and is provided on the back side of the transparent liquid crystal panel 34. It is composed of a transparent member (having a light guiding function) such as an acrylic resin having a thickness of about 2 cm.

  The reflective film 36 is, for example, a white polyester film or an aluminum thin film formed with a silver vapor deposition film, and reflects the light introduced into the light guide plate 35 toward the front side of the light guide plate 35. The reflective film 36 includes a reflective area 36A and a non-reflective area (transmissive area) 36B. The non-reflective region 36B is formed of a transparent material, and is provided in a region including a portion that covers the front of the mechanical reels 3A to 3E of the front panel 31.

  The fluorescent lamps 37a and 37b are disposed along the upper end and the lower end of the light guide plate 35, and both ends thereof are supported by lamp holders 39a, 39b, 39g, and 39h. Light emitted from the fluorescent lamps 37 a and 37 b is reflected by the reflection area 36 </ b> A of the reflection film 36 to illuminate the transparent liquid crystal panel 34. On the other hand, the fluorescent lamps 38a and 38b are disposed toward the mechanical reels 3A to 3E at the upper and lower positions on the back side of the reflection film 36, and both ends thereof are supported by lamp holders 39c, 39d and 39e, 39f. . Light emitted from these fluorescent lamps 38a and 38b, reflected by the surfaces of the mechanical reels 3A to 3E and incident on the non-reflective region 36B illuminates the transparent liquid crystal panel 34. As described above, in the liquid crystal display device 30, the light irradiated from the fluorescent lamps 37a and 37b and further reflected from the reflection region 36A of the reflective film 36 and the light irradiated from the fluorescent lamps 38a and 38b and further mechanical reels. The light reflected by the surfaces 3A to 3E and incident on the non-reflective region 36B illuminates the transparent liquid crystal panel 34. Therefore, the region of the liquid crystal display device 30 corresponding to the non-reflective region 36B of the reflective film 36 is a region that switches to a transparent / non-transparent state depending on whether or not the liquid crystal is being driven. The area of the liquid crystal display device corresponding to the area 36A is in a non-transparent state regardless of whether or not the liquid crystal is driven.

  In this slot machine 10, only a partial area of the display surface of the liquid crystal display device 30 is an area that switches to a transparent / non-transparent state, but the entire area of the display screen of the liquid crystal display device 30 is in a transparent / non-transparent state. It does not matter as a switching area. As described above, when the entire region of the liquid crystal display device 30 is a region that is switched to the transmissive state or the non-transmissive state, the reflective film 36 may be all the non-reflective region 36B or the reflective film 36 may be omitted.

  FIG. 6 shows a symbol column in which 21 symbols represented on the mechanical reels 3A to 3E are arranged. The symbol column for the first mechanical reel is for the mechanical reel 3A, the symbol column for the second mechanical reel is for the mechanical reel 3B, the symbol column for the third mechanical reel is for the mechanical reel 3C, and the symbol column for the fourth mechanical reel is The symbol column corresponds to the mechanical reel 3D, and the symbol column for the fifth mechanical reel corresponds to the mechanical reel 3E. Referring to FIG. 6, each symbol of mechanical reels 3A to 3E is assigned a code number of “00” to “20”, and these code numbers are tabulated and ROM 108 described later as a data table. (FIG. 7). On each of the mechanical reels 3A to 3E, a “bonus” symbol (symbol 61) (hereinafter abbreviated as “bonus”), a “wild” symbol (symbol 62) (hereinafter abbreviated as “wild”), a “treasure box” "Symbol (symbol 63) (hereinafter abbreviated as" treasure chest ")," golden mask "symbol (symbol 64) (hereinafter abbreviated as" golden mask ")," holy grail "symbol (symbol 65) (hereinafter referred to as" golden mask ") , Abbreviated as “Holy Grail”), “compass and map” symbol (symbol 66) (hereinafter abbreviated as “compass and map”), “snake” symbol (symbol 67) (hereinafter abbreviated as “snake”) , “Ace” symbol (symbol 68) (hereinafter abbreviated as “ace”), “king” symbol (symbol 69) (hereinafter abbreviated as “king”), “queen” thin Symbol (symbol 70) (hereinafter abbreviated as “queen”), “jack” symbol (symbol 71) (hereinafter abbreviated as “jack”), and “10” symbol (symbol 72) (hereinafter referred to as “10”). A symbol string composed of (abbreviated) is shown. The symbol rows of the mechanical reels 3A to 3E move in the direction of the arrow in FIG. 6 (from top to bottom) when the reels 3A to 3E are rotated in the forward direction.

  Here, in this embodiment, as a winning combination, “bonus”, “wild”, “snake”, “treasure box”, “golden mask”, “holy grail”, “compass and map”, “ace”, “ “King”, “Queen”, “Jack” and “10” are provided. The combination (combination data) is basically control information in which profits (the number of coins to be paid out) given to the player and winning symbol combinations are associated with each other, stop control of each mechanical reel 3A to 3E, game state Control information used for switching (transferring) and giving coins.

  The games that can be executed in the present embodiment include a basic game in which symbols are aligned along an active line, and a specific game having a game form different from the basic game.

  Referring to FIG. 7, the control device 100 is a microcomputer, and includes an interface circuit group 102, an input / output bus 104, a CPU 106, a ROM 108, a RAM 110, a communication interface circuit 111, a random number generator 112, and a motor drive circuit. 120, a speaker drive circuit 122, a hopper drive circuit 124, a display unit drive circuit 128, and a display / input control device 200.

  The interface circuit group 102 is connected to an input / output bus 104, and the input / output bus 104 inputs and outputs data signals or address signals to the CPU 106.

  A start switch 25 is connected to the interface circuit group 102. The start signal output from the start switch 25 is converted into a predetermined signal in the interface circuit group 102 and then supplied to the input / output bus 104.

  A BET switch 23, a spin / repeat / bet switch 24 and a payout switch 26 are also connected to the interface circuit group 102. The switching signals output from these switches 23, 24 and 26 are also supplied to the interface circuit group 102, converted into predetermined signals by the interface circuit group 102, and then supplied to the input / output bus 104.

  A coin sensor 43 is also connected to the interface circuit group 102. The coin sensor 43 is a sensor for detecting a coin inserted into the coin insertion slot 22, and is provided in association with the coin insertion slot 22. The sensing signal output from the coin sensor 43 is also supplied to the interface circuit group 102, converted into a predetermined signal by the interface circuit group 102, and then supplied to the input / output bus 104.

  A reel position detection circuit 46 is also connected to the interface circuit group 102. The reel position detection circuit 46 is a circuit for detecting the rotation position of each mechanical reel 3A to 3E based on a pulse signal from a reel rotation position sensor (not shown). The detection signal is also supplied to the interface circuit group 102, converted into a predetermined signal by the interface circuit group 102, and then supplied to the input / output bus 104.

  A ROM 108 and a RAM 110 are also connected to the input / output bus 104.

  The CPU 106 functions as first game control means. Therefore, the CPU 106 reads out the first game program and executes the basic game when the start operation of the basic game is received by the start switch 25. The first game program drives each of the stepping motors 45A to 45E to rotate all the mechanical reels 3A to 3E, thereby starting the change display of the symbols of the reels 3A to 3E, and then the stepping motors 45A to 45E. When stopping the driving of each of the mechanical reels 3A to 3E to stop the variable display of the symbols on the reels 3A to 3E, and the combination of the stopped symbols at that time indicates a winning combination Is programmed to pay out coins according to the winning combination.

  The CPU 106 also functions as second game control means. Therefore, when the symbols of all the mechanical reels 3A to 3E are stopped and displayed, when the “snake” appears on the mechanical reel 3E, the CPU 106 reads out the second game program on the assumption that the “snake” role is established. Run a specific game. The second game program is programmed so that a character appears and the character performs a predetermined action. Note that the specific action content of the character in the specific game will be described in detail later.

  The ROM 108 executes a control program for controlling the slot machine 10 in a centralized manner, a program for executing the routines shown in FIGS. 9, 10, and 15 (hereinafter referred to as “routine execution program”), and a control program. The initial data to be used and various data tables used in the lottery are stored. The routine execution program includes the first game program, the second game program, and the like. Examples of the data table include the tables shown in FIGS. 11 to 14 and 19.

  FIG. 11 shows a game state lottery table used in the basic game. In this game state lottery table, a range of random numbers to be transferred to a specific game and a winning probability are registered in association with each other. Therefore, in the game state lottery process to be described later, for example, when random numbers in the range of “0” to “299” are extracted from “0” to “65535”, the final basic game results It is determined inside the slot machine 10 to shift to a specific game. In other words, the probability that the combination of stop symbols is determined as a combination indicating a winning “snake” is “300/65536”. On the other hand, when random numbers in the range of “300” to “65535” are extracted from the random numbers of “0” to “65535”, a winning combination other than “snake” is generated as a result of the final basic game It is determined inside the slot machine 10.

  FIG. 12 shows a basic game probability lottery table used in the basic game. In this basic game probability lottery table, a range of random numbers and winning probabilities are registered in association with each winning combination. Therefore, in the basic game lottery process described later, for example, when random numbers in the range of “150” to “299” are extracted from the random numbers of “0” to “65535”, the final basic game As a result, it is determined inside the slot machine 10 that the winning combination of “treasure box” is generated. In other words, the probability that the combination of stop symbols is determined as a combination indicating a winning of “treasure chest” is “150/65536”. On the other hand, when random numbers in the range of “10000” to “65535” are extracted from the random numbers of “0” to “65535”, the slot machine 10 may generate a loss as a result of the final basic game. Determined internally. In other words, the probability that the combination of stop symbols is determined as a combination indicating a loss is “55536/65536”.

  FIG. 13 shows a symbol arrangement table. In this symbol arrangement table, each symbol of each of the mechanical reels 3A to 3E is registered in association with a code number indicating the position of each symbol constituting the symbol row. The first to fifth mechanical reels correspond to the mechanical reels 3A to 3E, respectively. In other words, the symbol arrangement table includes information of symbols drawn on the reel outer peripheral surface corresponding to the symbol positions (code numbers) of the mechanical reels 3A to 3E.

  FIG. 14 shows a basic game winning / dispensing table used in the basic game. In this basic game winning / dispensing table, each winning combination is registered in association with the number of coins to be paid out for each credit amount betted in one game. Therefore, for example, when a “treasure chest” is generated at the time of winning determination, 25 coins are paid out when the BET credit number is “1”, and 50 coins when the BET credit number is “2”. If the number of BET credits is “3”, 75 coins are paid out.

  FIG. 19 shows a specific game probability lottery payout table used in a specific game. In the specific game probability lottery payout table, the number of coins to be paid out as winning and losing and payout is registered in association with the range of random numbers. Therefore, when a random number within the range of “0” to “30” is extracted from the random numbers of “0” to “99” in the specific game process described later, the winning / losing result is determined to be “win”. It is determined inside the slot machine 10 that the winning screen is displayed and the first payout is made. In other words, the probability of displaying the winning screen and making the first payout is “31/100”. On the other hand, when random numbers within the range of “31” to “99” are extracted from the random numbers of “0” to “99”, the result of the loss is determined as “losing” and the losing screen is displayed. It is determined in the slot machine 10 that a second payout lower than the payout is made. In other words, the probability of displaying the losing screen and making the second payout is “69/100”.

  Referring to FIG. 7 again, RAM 110 temporarily stores flags, variable values, and the like used in the control program.

  A communication interface circuit 111 is also connected to the input / output bus 104. The communication interface circuit 111 is a circuit for communicating with a server or the like via various communication line networks including a public telephone line network and a LAN.

  A random number generator 112 for generating random numbers is also connected to the input / output bus 104. The random number generator 112 generates a random number included in a certain range of numerical values, for example, “0” to “65535 (2 to the 16th power-1)”. Alternatively, a random number may be generated by the arithmetic processing of the CPU 106.

  A motor drive circuit 120 for driving the stepping motors 45A to 45E and a display unit drive circuit 128 for driving the various display units 18 to 20 are also connected to the input / output bus 104. The CPU 106 controls the operations of the various display units 18 to 20 and the stepping motors 45A to 45E via the motor drive circuit 120 and the display unit drive circuit 128 in response to occurrence of a predetermined event.

  A speaker drive circuit 122 for driving the speaker 41 is also connected to the input / output bus 104. The CPU 106 reads the sound data stored in the ROM 108 and transmits the read sound data to the speaker drive circuit 122 via the input / output bus 104. Thereby, a predetermined sound effect is emitted from the speaker 41.

  A hopper driving circuit 124 for driving the hopper 44 is also connected to the input / output bus 104. When the payout signal from the payout switch 26 is input, the CPU 106 outputs a drive signal to the hopper drive circuit 124 via the input / output bus 104. Accordingly, the hopper 44 pays out coins corresponding to the remaining number of credits stored in a predetermined memory area of the RAM 110 at that time.

  A display / input control device 200 is also connected to the input / output bus 104. The CPU 106 generates an image display command corresponding to the game state and the game result, and outputs the generated image display command to the display / input control device 200 via the input / output bus 104. When an image display command from the CPU 106 is input, the display / input control device 200 generates a drive signal for driving the liquid crystal display device 30 based on the input image display command, and uses the generated drive signal. Output to the liquid crystal display device 30. As a result, a predetermined image is displayed on the transparent liquid crystal panel 34 of the liquid crystal display device 30. The display / input control device 200 transmits a signal received by the touch panel 32 on the liquid crystal display device 30 as an input signal to the CPU 106 via the input / output bus 104.

  Referring to FIG. 8, the display / input control device 200 is a sub microcomputer that performs image display processing and input control from the touch panel 32, and includes an interface circuit 202, an input / output bus 204, a CPU 206, a ROM 208, and a RAM 210. , VDP 212, video RAM 214, image data ROM 216, drive circuit 218, and touch panel control circuit 220.

  The interface circuit 202 is connected to the input / output bus 204. The image display command output from the CPU 106 on the control device 100 side is supplied to the input / output bus 204 via the interface circuit 202. The input / output bus 204 inputs / outputs data signals or address signals to / from the CPU 206.

  A ROM 208 and a RAM 210 are also connected to the input / output bus 204. The ROM 208 stores a display control program for generating a drive signal to be supplied to the liquid crystal display device 30 based on an image display command from the CPU 106 on the control device 100 side. On the other hand, the RAM 210 stores values of flags and variables used in the display control program.

  A VDP 212 is also connected to the input / output bus 204. The VDP 212 includes a so-called sprite circuit, a screen circuit, a palette circuit, and the like, and is a processing device that can perform various processes for displaying an image on the liquid crystal display device 30. The VDP 212 is a video RAM 214 for storing image data in accordance with an image display command from the CPU 106 on the control device 100 side, and various image data including the above-described effect image data and the like. A ROM 216 is connected. Further, a drive circuit 218 that outputs a drive signal for driving the liquid crystal display device 30 is also connected to the VDP 212.

  The CPU 206 reads out and executes a display control program stored in the ROM 208, thereby storing image data to be displayed on the liquid crystal display device 30 in the video RAM 214 in accordance with an image display command from the CPU 106 on the control device 100 side. Let The image display command includes various image display commands including a display command for the effect image.

  The image data ROM 216 stores various image data including the data of the effect image.

  The touch panel control circuit 220 transmits a signal received by the touch panel 32 on the liquid crystal display device 30 as an input signal to the CPU 106 via the input / output bus 204.

  As is clear from the above description, in the present embodiment, the various processes described in the appended claims can be performed in various ways according to the programs stored in the ROM 108 and the ROM 108. It can be said that the control device 100 includes the CPU 106 that performs control, the RAM 110 that functions as a working area of the CPU 106, and the display / input control device 200 that controls driving of the liquid crystal display device 30. When interpreted in a narrow sense, the contents of processing executed by the display / input control device 200 including the CPU 206, ROM 208, RAM 210, VDP 212, video RAM 214, image data ROM 216, drive circuit 218, and touch panel control circuit 220. Is also included. This will become clearer from the flow of processing operations of the slot machine 10 described with reference to FIGS. 9, 10, and 15.

  9, FIG. 10 and FIG. 15 show a routine for controlling the slot machine 10 which is executed by the control device 100. FIG. The series of routines shown in FIGS. 9, 10 and 15 are called and executed at a predetermined timing from the main program of the slot machine 10, which is executed in advance.

  In the following, the slot machine 10 is activated in advance, and on the other hand, the variables used in the CPU 106 on the control device 100 side are initialized to predetermined values, so that the slot machine 10 is in steady operation. And

  First, the flow of processing operations in the basic game will be described with reference to FIGS.

  First, the CPU 106 on the control device 100 side determines whether or not a credit which is the remaining number of coins inserted by the player remains (step S1). Specifically, the CPU 106 reads out the credit number C stored in the RAM 110 and performs processing based on the read credit number C. When the credit number C is “0” (when NO is determined in the process of Step S1), the CPU 106 cannot start the game, and thus terminates this routine without performing any process. On the other hand, when the number of credits C is “1” or more (when it is determined YES in the process of step S1), the CPU 106 determines that credits remain and moves the process to step S2.

  In step S2, the CPU 106 determines whether the spin / repeat / bet switch 24 has been pressed. When the spin / repeat / bet switch 24 is pressed and an operation signal is input from the spin / repeat / bet switch 24 (when YES is determined in the process of step S2), the CPU 106 Then, the process proceeds to step S11. On the other hand, if the operation signal from the spin / repeat / bet switch 24 is not input even after the predetermined time has elapsed (when NO is determined in the process of step S2), the CPU 106 performs the spin / repeat / bet switch 24. Is determined not to be pressed, and the process proceeds to step S3.

  In step S3, game conditions are set. Specifically, the CPU 106 determines the number of coins to bet on the active line in this game based on the operation of the BET switch 23. At this time, the CPU 106 receives an operation signal generated by the operation of the BET switch 23 and, based on the number of times of receiving the received operation signal, the number of BETs related to the winning line to be activated is stored in the RAM 110. In a predetermined memory area. The CPU 106 reads the credit number C written in a predetermined memory area of the RAM 110, subtracts the total BET number obtained by adding the BET number from the read credit number C, and uses the subtracted value as a predetermined memory area of the RAM 110. Remember me. Thereafter, the CPU 106 shifts the processing to step S4.

  In step S4, the CPU 106 waits for the start switch 25 to be operated by determining whether or not the start switch is ON. If the start switch 25 is operated and an operation signal is input from the start switch 25 (when YES is determined in the process of step S4), the CPU 106 determines that the start switch 25 is operated. Judgment is made, and the process proceeds to step S5.

  On the other hand, when proceeding to step S11, the CPU 106 determines whether or not the value of the credit number C is equal to or greater than the total bet number in the previous game. In other words, the CPU 106 determines whether or not the game can be started by pressing the spin / repeat / bet switch 24. Specifically, when the spin / repeat / bet switch 24 is pressed and an operation signal is input from the switch 24, the CPU 106 stores the credit number C written in a predetermined memory area in the RAM 110 and the credit number C. The BET number relating to the active lines L1 to L9 in the previous game is read out, and the value of the credit number C is the total bet value in the previous game based on the relationship between the read credit number C and the BET number. Processing is performed based on whether or not the above is true. When it is determined that the value of the credit number C is less than the value of the total bet number in the previous game (when it is determined NO in the process of step S11), the CPU 106 cannot start the game, so no processing is performed. This routine is terminated without performing. On the other hand, when it is determined that the value of the credit number C is equal to or greater than the total bet number in the previous game (when it is determined YES in the process of step S11), the CPU 106 determines from the value of the credit number C the previous time. The total bet value in the game is subtracted, and the subtracted value is stored in a predetermined memory area of the RAM 110. Thereafter, the CPU 106 moves the process to step S5.

  In step S5, the CPU 106 performs a game state lottery process for determining by electronic lottery in the slot machine 10 whether or not to shift to the specific game. The specific processing contents of this game state lottery processing are as follows.

  In the game state lottery process, the CPU 106 determines whether or not to shift to a specific game. Specifically, the CPU 106 issues a command for generating a random number to the random number generator 112, and a random number within a predetermined range generated by the random number generator 112 (“0” to “65535 in the present embodiment). )). The CPU 106 stores the extracted random number in a predetermined memory area of the RAM 110. In the present embodiment, the random number is generated by the random number generator 112 provided outside the CPU 106. However, the random number generator 112 is not provided, and the random number is generated by the arithmetic processing of the CPU 106. It doesn't matter. The CPU 106 reads a game state lottery table (see FIG. 11) and a winning mode table (not shown) stored in the ROM 108, and stores the read game state lottery table and winning mode table in a predetermined memory area of the RAM 110. . The CPU 106 reads the game state lottery table and the winning mode table stored in the predetermined memory area of the RAM 110, refers to the game state lottery table using the random number value written in the predetermined memory area of the RAM 110 as a parameter, Accordingly, when a transition is made to a specific game, a combination of stop symbols related to the active line is determined as a “snake” combination. As described above, when the winning combination is determined, the CPU 106 stores the determined winning combination data in a predetermined memory area of the RAM 110. The CPU 106 reads a random number value and winning combination data written in a predetermined memory area of the RAM 110, and determines a stop symbol combination to be stopped and displayed based on the read random number value and winning combination data. At this time, the symbol arrangement table (see FIG. 13) stored in the ROM 108 is read by the CPU 106, stored in a predetermined memory area of the RAM 110, and referenced. The CPU 106 stores the determined stop symbol data in a predetermined memory area of the RAM 110. Alternatively, a stop symbol may be determined for each reel using the game state lottery table. Further, the CPU 106 reads out the game state lottery table stored in the predetermined memory area of the RAM 110 and refers to the game state lottery table using the random number value written in the predetermined memory area of the RAM 110 as a parameter, thereby If the game is not shifted to the specific game, no processing is performed in this step.

  When the combination of stop symbols for the active line is determined as the “snake” combination, the CPU 106 responds to the combination of the determined winning symbols for the active line, assuming that the combination of stop symbols for the active line is a winning combination. In order to generate a winning, a winning flag indicating the type of winning combination is validated. The ON winning flag is stored in a predetermined memory area of the RAM 110 by the CPU 106.

  When the process proceeds to step S6, when the CPU 106 shifts to the specific game as a result of the game state lottery process (when YES is determined in step S6), the CPU 106 shifts the process to step S8. On the other hand, when the transition to the specific game is not performed (when NO is determined in step S6), the CPU 106 performs a basic game lottery process for determining a winning combination by an electronic lottery inside the slot machine 10 (step S6). S7). The specific processing contents of this basic game lottery processing are as follows.

  In the basic game lottery process, first, the CPU 106 determines a combination of stop symbols along the valid line. Specifically, the CPU 106 issues a command for generating a random number to the random number generator 112, and a random number within a predetermined range generated by the random number generator 112 (“0” to “65535 in the present embodiment). )). The CPU 106 stores the extracted random number in a predetermined memory area of the RAM 110. In the present embodiment, the random number is generated by the random number generator 112 provided outside the CPU 106. However, the random number generator 112 is not provided, and the random number is generated by the arithmetic processing of the CPU 106. It doesn't matter. The CPU 106 reads a basic game probability lottery table (see FIG. 12) and a winning mode table (not shown) stored in the ROM 108, and stores the read basic game probability lottery table and winning mode table in a predetermined memory of the RAM 110. Store in the area. The CPU 106 controls the stop mode for each reel based on the basic game probability lottery table. The CPU 106 reads the basic game probability lottery table and the winning mode table stored in the predetermined memory area of the RAM 110, and refers to the probability lottery table using the random number value written in the predetermined memory area of the RAM 110 as a parameter. Thereby determining a combination of stop symbols for the active line. As described above, when the winning combination is determined, the CPU 106 stores the determined winning combination data in a predetermined memory area of the RAM 110. The CPU 106 reads a random number value and winning combination data written in a predetermined memory area of the RAM 110, and determines a stop symbol combination to be stopped and displayed based on the read random number value and winning combination data. At this time, the symbol arrangement table (see FIG. 13) stored in the ROM 108 is read by the CPU 106, stored in a predetermined memory area of the RAM 110, and referenced. The CPU 106 stores the determined stop symbol data in a predetermined memory area of the RAM 110. Alternatively, a stop symbol may be determined for each reel using the probability lottery table.

  When the combination of stop symbols related to the effective line is determined, the CPU 106 determines whether or not the combination of stop symbols related to the effective line is a winning combination. When the combination of the stop symbols related to the active line is a winning combination, the CPU 106 displays a winning flag indicating the type of winning combination in order to generate a winning corresponding to the determined winning symbol combination on the active line. Activate. The ON winning flag is stored in a predetermined memory area of the RAM 110 by the CPU 106. On the other hand, when the combination of stop symbols related to the active line is a lost combination, the CPU 106 does not validate the winning flag.

  In subsequent step S8, the CPU 106 starts rotation of the mechanical reels 3A to 3E. Specifically, the CPU 106 rotates the mechanical reels 3A to 3E sequentially or simultaneously based on the symbol arrangement table stored in the RAM 110.

  After starting the rotation of the mechanical reels 3 </ b> A to 3 </ b> E, the CPU 106 counts the number of drive pulses transmitted to each of the stepping motors 45 </ b> A to 45 </ b> E and stores this count value in a predetermined memory area of the RAM 110. Each time the mechanical reels 3A to 3E rotate, a reset pulse is acquired, and the reset pulses of the mechanical reels 3A to 3E are input to the CPU 106 via the reel position detection circuit 46. The drive pulse count value written in the RAM 110 is cleared to “0” by the reset pulse thus obtained. Thereby, the count value corresponding to the rotation position within the range of one rotation for each of the mechanical reels 3A to 3E is stored in a predetermined memory area of the RAM 110. In the symbol arrangement table stored in the RAM 110, the rotational positions of the mechanical reels 3A to 3E and the symbols of the mechanical reels 3A to 3E are associated with each other. When the CPU 106 refers to the symbol arrangement table, the code number sequentially given for each fixed rotation pitch of each mechanical reel 3A to 3E with reference to the rotation position where the reset pulse is generated, and for each code number Symbol codes indicating symbols provided corresponding to are associated with each other.

  When the rotation of the mechanical reels 3A to 3E is started, the CPU 106 waits for a predetermined time to elapse (step S9). When the predetermined time has elapsed (when it is determined YES in step S9), the CPU 106 automatically stops the rotation of the mechanical reels 3A to 3E (step S10). Specifically, the CPU 106 determines that the stop symbol corresponding to the winning combination determined in step S5 or step S7 is visually interactive with the player based on the winning combination written in a predetermined memory area of the RAM 110. The rotation of each of the mechanical reels 3A to 3E is stopped in order or simultaneously so as to be displayed in the display area having. Thereafter, the CPU 106 shifts the processing to step S12.

  After shifting to step S12, the CPU 106 determines whether or not to shift to the specific game as a result of the lottery in step S5 (step S12). Specifically, the CPU 106 makes a determination based on whether or not the winning combination stored in a predetermined memory area of the RAM 110 is “snake”. When the winning combination is “snake” (when it is determined YES at step S12), the CPU 106 determines to execute the specific game, and performs the specific game process described later with reference to FIG. 15 (step S13). . On the other hand, when the winning combination is not “snake” (when NO is determined in the process of step S12), the CPU 106 shifts the process to step S14.

  In step S13, the CPU 106 performs a specific game process described later with reference to FIG. When the specific game process ends, the CPU 106 ends this routine.

  On the other hand, when proceeding to step S14, the CPU 106 determines whether or not a winning combination has been established (step S14). Specifically, the CPU 106 makes a determination based on the state of the winning flag relating to the active line stored in a predetermined memory area of the RAM 110. When the winning flag has not been validated (when it is determined NO in the process of step S14), the CPU 106 determines that a winning combination has not been established and ends this routine. On the other hand, when the winning flag is validated (when it is determined YES in the process of step S14), the CPU 106 determines that a winning combination has been established, and moves the process to step S15.

  In step S15, the CPU 106 pays out the number of coins corresponding to the winning combination in a predetermined manner. Specifically, the CPU 106 refers to the basic game winning / dispensing table (see FIG. 14) and calculates the number of coins to be paid out corresponding to the winning combination. The CPU 106 reads the number of credits stored in a predetermined memory area of the RAM 110, adds the calculated payout number to the read number of credits, and stores the added value in a predetermined memory area of the RAM 110. The CPU 106 displays the stored value on the credit number display unit 19. Thereafter, the CPU 106 ends this routine.

  Next, the flow of processing operations in a specific game will be described with reference to FIG.

  In a state where the rotation of all the mechanical reels 3A to 3E is stopped, a “snake” (symbol 67) appears on the mechanical reel 3E. The CPU 106 of the control device 100 issues a specific game execution start command to the display / input control device 200, and causes the display / input control device 200 to display an image of the specific game on the display surface 31a of the liquid crystal display device 30. (Step S21). In this specific game image, as shown in FIG. 16, a snake character 82 appears from a “snake” (symbol 67) displayed at the top of the mechanical reel 3E. From the above-mentioned speaker 41, a shocking sound and a sound “shhhhh!” Generated by the snake character 82 flow along with a song with a tense image of confrontation. The player feels uneasy about what will happen in the future and at the same time feels the tension of confronting the snake character 82. When the process of step S21 ends, the CPU 106 moves the process to step S22.

  Referring again to FIG. 15, when the process proceeds to step S <b> 22, the CPU 106 issues an item display command to the display / input control device 200, and the main character is displayed on the display surface 31 a of the liquid crystal display device 30 by the display / input control device 200. The character 81 appears from the outside of the screen, displays an image that faces the snake character 82, and displays images of the whip 91, the torches 92, and the bomb 93 as weapons (items) selected by the player (step S22). This is shown in FIG. As a plurality of weapons, images of the whip 91, the torch 92, and the bomb 93 are displayed together with the display of the hand to be selected. Therefore, for the player, the hero character 81 can be selected from the weapons of the whip 91, the torch 92, and the bomb 93. It can be understood that the game is a specific game in which a single character is used to play against the snake character 82 as an opponent character. Further, the image display area where the weapons of the whip 91, the torch 92, and the bomb 93 are displayed on the display surface 31a of the liquid crystal display device 30 functions as a touch switch as will be described later. Thereafter, the CPU 106 moves the process to step S23.

  Returning to FIG. 15, when the process proceeds to step S <b> 23, the CPU 106 waits for any one weapon to be selected by an operation via the touch panel 32 of the player. When one weapon is selected by operating the touch switch, the CPU 106 moves the process to step S24. At this time, if the player selects one weapon from the weapons of the whip 91, the torches 92, and the bomb 93 by operating the touch switch, an option decision sound flows from the speaker 41 described above. It is possible to grasp that it was possible to select.

  As shown in the above example, multiple weapons with different powers against the opponent are prepared. By selecting one of the weapons that gives the impression of different reliability as a battle item, For example, you can make them think that "If you are a bomb, you can defeat your opponent." Since the match result matches or differs from the player's imagination, the game is surprising, and as a result, the player may enjoy the game more.

  Thereafter, the CPU 106 issues a confrontation screen display command to the display / input control device 200, and the display / input control device 200 images the weapon selected by the main character 81 on the display surface 31a of the liquid crystal display device 30. An image in which the weapon character is thrown at the snake character 82 is displayed. This is shown in FIG. In this display example, a bomb character 83 in which a bomb 93 that is a weapon selected by the main character 81 is imaged is thrown at a snake character 82. Furthermore, the main character 81 releases the bomb character 83, and simultaneously, a sound effect that releases the bomb character 83 flows from the speaker 41 described above.

  The above-described image and sound effect improve the player's sense of uplifting whether or not he / she wins the confrontation while watching the image in which the hero character 81 confronts the opponent snake character 82 using the weapon he / she has selected. Cause tension.

  Returning again to FIG. 15, when the process proceeds to step S <b> 24, the CPU 106 gives either of the first payout and the second payout to the main character 81 from the item selected by the touch switch selection method. A specific game lottery process for determining such a match result by electronic lottery inside the slot machine 10 is performed. The specific processing content of this specific game lottery processing is as follows.

  In the specific game lottery process, when a battle item is selected by the touch switch selection method, first, the CPU 106 issues a command to the random number generator 112 to generate a random number, and the random number generator 112 generates the instruction. A random number within a predetermined range (“0” to “99” in the present embodiment) is extracted. The CPU 106 stores the extracted random number in a predetermined memory area of the RAM 110. In the present embodiment, the random number is generated by the random number generator 112 provided outside the CPU 106. However, the random number generator 112 is not provided, and the random number is generated by the arithmetic processing of the CPU 106. It doesn't matter. The CPU 106 reads the specific game probability lottery payout table (see FIG. 19) stored in the ROM 108, and stores the read specific game probability lottery payout table in a predetermined memory area of the RAM 110.

  When the specific game lottery process ends, the CPU 106 moves the process to step S25.

  In step S25, the CPU 106 determines whether or not the battle result wins, that is, the game win / loss result in which the main character 81 battles with the snake character 82. Specifically, the CPU 106 reads a probability lottery payout table for specific games stored in a predetermined memory area of the RAM 110, and uses the random number value written in the predetermined memory area of the RAM 110 as a parameter for the probability lottery payout table. By referring to the result, the winning / losing result and payout number of the specific game are determined. As described above, when the winning / losing result of the specific game is determined, the CPU 106 stores the determined winning / losing result in a predetermined memory area of the RAM 110. If the random value is a winning match result (if YES in step S25), CPU 106 moves the process to step S26. On the other hand, when the random number is a losing match result (when NO is determined in the process of step S25), the CPU 106 moves the process to step S28.

  When it is determined as “win” in the process of step S25 and the process proceeds to step S26, the CPU 106 issues a win screen display command to the display / input control device 200, and the display / input control device 200 determines the specific game lottery process. The image that the main character 81 has won is displayed on the display surface 31 a of the liquid crystal display device 30. As shown in FIG. 20, the snake character 82 as the opponent character disappears in the smoke, and the number of coins as a payout is displayed on the display surface 31 a of the liquid crystal display device 30 above the place where the snake character 82 is displayed. (Step S26). In addition to the success sound, the voice of the main character 81 “Yai !!” flows from the speaker 41 described above. Thus, the player can realize that he has won the confrontation and has obtained the displayed payout. Thereafter, the CPU 106 moves the process to step S27.

  Referring again to FIG. 15, when the process proceeds to step S27, the CPU 106 pays out the payout displayed on the display surface 31a of the liquid crystal display device 30 in a predetermined manner in step S26. Specifically, the CPU 106 reads out a random value written in a predetermined memory area of the RAM 110 and a specific game probability lottery payout table (see FIG. 19) stored in the ROM 108. Then, the CPU 106 calculates the number of coins to be paid out corresponding to the random value by referring to the specific game probability lottery payout table from the random number value. The CPU 106 reads the number of credits stored in a predetermined memory area of the RAM 110, adds the calculated payout number to the read number of credits, and stores the added value in a predetermined memory of the RAM 110. The CPU 106 displays the stored value on the credit number display unit 19. Thereafter, the CPU 106 ends this routine. In the present embodiment, when the random number value is “7”, 50 coins are paid out as the winning first payout.

  On the other hand, if it is determined that the game is “losing” in step S25 and the process proceeds to step S28, the CPU 106 issues a losing screen display command to the display / input control device 200. The image in which the main character 81 determined in step 2 loses the game is displayed on the display surface 31 a of the liquid crystal display device 30. As shown in FIG. 21, the hero character 81 has a stickiness, the snake character 82 jumps to the hero character 81, and the number of coins as a payout is displayed above the place where the snake character 82 is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 30. It is displayed on the display surface 31a (step S28). In addition to the failure sound, the voice of the main character 81 “Wow !!” flows from the speaker 41 described above. Thus, the player can grasp that the displayed payout can be obtained although the player has lost the confrontation. Thereafter, the CPU 106 moves the process to step S29.

  Referring to FIG. 15 again, when the process proceeds to step S29, the CPU 106 pays out the payout displayed on the display surface 31a of the liquid crystal display device 30 in the above-described step S28 in a predetermined manner. Specifically, the CPU 106 reads out a random value written in a predetermined memory area of the RAM 110 and a specific game probability lottery payout table (see FIG. 19) stored in the ROM 108. Then, the CPU 106 calculates the number of coins to be paid out corresponding to the random value by referring to the specific game probability lottery payout table from the random number value. The CPU 106 reads the number of credits stored in a predetermined memory area of the RAM 110, adds the calculated payout number to the read number of credits, and stores the added value in a predetermined memory of the RAM 110. The CPU 106 displays the stored value on the credit number display unit 19. Thereafter, the CPU 106 ends this routine. In the present embodiment, when the random value is “37”, 20 coins are paid out as the second payout that is lost.

  In the process of step S27 or step S29 described above, the number of coins to be paid out is stored as credits. You can also pay out coins.

  Needless to say, the contents of various specific games known in the art may be applied as the contents of the specific game provided as the specific game.

  According to the present embodiment, the following operations and effects are achieved.

  (1) When symbols belonging to all columns are stopped and displayed by the respective mechanical reels 3A to 3E, when a predetermined condition is satisfied, the CPU 106 reads the program and specifies the program based on the read program Run the game. Specifically, a game image of a specific game is displayed on the display surface 31a of the liquid crystal display device 30. At this time, a hero character 81 whose main character 81 is an opponent character is displayed on the display surface 31a of the liquid crystal display device 30. A plurality of battle items 91 to 93 to be used in the battle are displayed. The display area of the plurality of battle items 91 to 93 on the display surface 31 a of the liquid crystal display device 30 functions as a touch switch for selecting one battle item from the plurality of battle items 91 to 93. When the player operates the touch panel 32 based on the intention and selects one battle item, the liquid crystal display device 30 displays how the main character 81 is fighting the snake character 82 using the selected battle item. A game image is displayed on the surface 31a. While the battle game images of both the main character 81 and the snake character 82 are displayed as game images on the display surface 31a of the liquid crystal display device 30, an internal lottery for determining the battle result in the specific game is executed. When the internal lottery is completed, a state in which the battle between the main character 81 and the snake character 82 is completed is displayed as a game image on the display surface 31a of the liquid crystal display device 30 based on the lottery result. A first payout is awarded when the main character 81 is determined to win, and a second payout lower than the first payout is awarded when the main character 81 is determined to lose.

  As described above, a payout is always made regardless of whether the game is won or lost. However, as a trigger for an internal lottery for determining the victory or defeat, the main character 81 and the snake character 82 are used as triggers for the internal game. Since the player uses the touch switch selection method to select the battle items 91 to 93 to be used when competing, the player's will is directly involved in the win / loss internal lottery of the specific game. Such an impression is given to the player.

  (2) When symbols belonging to all the columns are stopped and displayed by the mechanical reels 3A to 3E, the symbol group belonging to the column finally stopped among the mechanical reels 3A to 3E is displayed as a “snake” to be an opponent character. "Is included, the CPU 106 reads the program and executes the specific game based on the read program.

  (3) When symbols belonging to all columns are stopped and displayed by the mechanical reels 3A to 3E, the symbol group belonging to the column finally stopped among the mechanical reels 3A to 3E is displayed as a “snake” to be an opponent character. The CPU 106 further executes an internal lottery that determines whether or not to execute the specific game.

  As described above, even when the symbol group belonging to the last stopped column of the mechanical reels 3A to 3E includes the “snake” to be the opponent character, the case where the specific game is executed is specified. Since there are cases where the game is not executed, it is possible to increase the expectation as if the game shifts to a specific game for a player who is viewing a “snake” that should be a specific character, As a result, it becomes possible to enhance the interest of the player.

  (4) When symbols belonging to all columns are stopped and displayed by the mechanical reels 3A to 3E, the symbol group belonging to the column finally stopped among the mechanical reels 3A to 3E is displayed as a “snake” to be an opponent character. The CPU 106 further executes an internal lottery that determines whether or not to execute the specific game. As a result, when it is determined to execute the specific game, the CPU 106 displays the snake character 82 from “snake” together with the main character 81 as a game image on the display surface 31 a of the liquid crystal display device 30.

  (5) The slot machine rotates and stops the mechanical reels 3A to 3E, each of which has a plurality of types of symbols drawn on the outer peripheral surface, by stepping motors 45A to 45E, etc., and each of the mechanical reels 3A to 3E is displayed in the display window. A variable display and a stop display are made. The liquid crystal display device 30 is provided so as to cover the display window, and the liquid crystal display device 30 includes a transparent liquid crystal panel 34 that can visually observe the mechanical reels 3A to 3E.

  This is because when a player plays a game in a slot machine, the player's line of sight is focused on the change display and stop display of each symbol. Therefore, the display window for displaying the symbol change display and stop display of each mechanical reel 3A to 3E By placing a transparent liquid crystal panel in front of the player, it is possible to provoke the player's willingness to challenge the game.

  (6) When the symbols belonging to all the columns are stopped and displayed on the mechanical reels 3A to 3E by the stepping motors 45A to 45E, etc., they belong to the column finally stopped among the mechanical reels 3A to 3E in the display window. On the condition that the symbol group includes “snake” to be the opponent character, the CPU 106 reads the program and executes the specific game based on the read program.

  (7) When symbols belonging to all the columns are stopped and displayed on the mechanical reels 3A to 3E by the stepping motors 45A to 45E, etc., they belong to the column finally stopped among the mechanical reels 3A to 3E in the display window. On the condition that the symbol group includes “snake” to be the opponent character, the CPU 106 further executes an internal lottery that determines whether or not to execute the specific game.

  In this way, even if the symbol group belonging to the last stopped column among the mechanical reels 3A to 3E in the display window includes the “snake” to be the opponent character, the specific game is executed. The game may or may not be executed, so that a player who is viewing the “snake” that should be a specific character can increase the expectation as if the game will shift to the specific game. As a result, it is possible to enhance the interest of the player.

  (8) When symbols belonging to all the columns are stopped and displayed on the mechanical reels 3A to 3E by the stepping motors 45A to 45E, etc., they belong to the column finally stopped among the mechanical reels 3A to 3E in the display window. On the condition that the symbol group includes “snake” to be the opponent character, the CPU 106 further executes an internal lottery that determines whether or not to execute the specific game. As a result, when it is determined to execute the specific game, the CPU 106 displays the snake character 82 from “snake” together with the main character 81 as a game image on the display surface 31 a of the liquid crystal display device 30.

  By adopting the various configurations described above, it is possible to produce an effect as if the victory or defeat is determined by the battle item selected by the player in the specific game, thereby allowing the player to win a higher dividend than the specific game. The psychology that tries to get it works.

  (9) The whip 91, the torches 92, and the bomb 93, which are battle items used in the specific game, give an impression that the reliability of the battle is different from each other. The battle item is displayed on the screen.

  By giving the impression that the reliability of the battle is different depending on the battle item selected by the player in the specific game, the player can determine that the selected battle item and the result of the battle in the specific game are the player's imagination. Since they match or differ, the game is surprising, and as a result, the player can enjoy the game more.

  The present invention is not limited to the above embodiment.

  (1) In the above embodiment, whether or not to shift to the specific game is performed by the game state lottery process after the player turns on the start switch, but is not limited to this. For example, the basic game lottery process may include whether to shift to a specific game. Even in this case, whether or not to shift to the specific game is determined by the internal lottery process, and the intention of the player is not reflected.

  (2) In the above embodiment, a specific game is always played when “snake” appears on the mechanical reel 3E. However, the mechanical reel is not limited to the mechanical reel 3E, and “ A specific game may be played when a “snake” appears. In addition, after the mechanical reels are finally stopped, it may be configured to further draw whether or not to execute the specific game. By providing the player with various patterns, it is possible to enhance the interest in the game.

  (3) In the above embodiment, winning or losing in a specific game is determined by selecting a weapon by selecting with a touch switch. For example, it is performed at the time of game state lottery processing after turning on the start switch. Alternatively, the basic game lottery process may be used. Also in this case, since the player's intention is not actually reflected in the payout, it is possible to provide a slot machine capable of reducing the distrust of the payout of the specific game.

  (4) In the above embodiment, an example in which the present invention is applied to a mechanical reel slot machine has been described. However, the present invention can also be applied to a simulated reel slot machine.

  (5) In the above embodiment, the present invention has been described with respect to an example in which the present invention is applied to a slot machine (so-called casino machine) that does not include a stop button and automatically stops its rotation after the reel rotates. The present invention can also be applied to a slot machine (a so-called pachislot machine) that includes a stop button and sequentially stops reels according to the order in which the stop buttons are pressed. These mean that the present invention is not restricted by the symbol stop display mode.

  It goes without saying that various design changes and modifications can be made within the scope of the claims attached to the present specification.

  Since the present invention can eliminate the player's distrust of winning or losing the specific game by making sure that a payout is made regardless of the win or loss in the specific game, the specific symbol in the basic game in which a predetermined number of symbols are arranged. It is useful as a slot machine that enters a specific game when appears.

It is a perspective view showing the appearance composition of the slot machine concerning an embodiment of the invention. It is an enlarged front view which expands and shows the display area of the slot machine. It is sectional drawing which follows the AA line of FIG. It is a perspective view which shows the schematic structure of the liquid crystal display device of the slot machine in the state seen from the back side. It is a disassembled perspective view which shows a part of structure of the liquid crystal display device shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows the symbol row | line | column represented on the mechanical reel. It is a block diagram which shows the electrical structure of the control apparatus of the slot machine. It is a block diagram which shows the electric constitution of the display / input control apparatus of the slot machine. 42 is a flowchart showing a flow of processing operations in the basic game of the slot machine. 42 is a flowchart showing a flow of processing operations in the basic game of the slot machine. It is a figure which shows the structure of a game state lottery table. It is a figure which shows the structure of the probability lottery table for basic games. It is a figure which shows the structure of a symbol arrangement | positioning table. It is a figure which shows the structure of the winning / dispensing table for basic games. 42 is a flowchart showing a flow of processing operations in a specific game of the slot machine. It is a figure which shows the example of a display in a liquid crystal display device. It is a figure which shows the example of a display in a liquid crystal display device. It is a figure which shows the example of a display in a liquid crystal display device. It is a figure which shows the structure of the probability lottery payout table for specific games. It is a figure which shows the example of a display in a liquid crystal display device. It is a figure which shows the example of a display in a liquid crystal display device.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 Slot machine 3A-3E Mechanical reel 30 Liquid crystal display device 34 Transparent liquid crystal panel 100 Control apparatus 102 Interface circuit group 104 I / O bus 106 CPU
108 ROM
110 RAM
200 Display / Input Control Device 202 Interface Circuit 204 I / O Bus 206 CPU
208 ROM
210 RAM
212 VDP
214 Video RAM
216 Image data ROM
218 Drive circuit L1-L9 Effective line

Claims (9)

A plurality of symbol display means for performing variable display and stop display of a plurality of types of symbols necessary for the basic game for each column;
Game start accepting means for accepting a start operation of the basic game by the player for each game;
When the start operation of the basic game is accepted by the game start accepting means, the symbol display means starts the variable display of symbols belonging to all columns, and then the symbol display means allows all the symbols to be displayed. When the variable display of the symbols belonging to the column is stopped and the combination of the stopped symbols at that time indicates a winning combination, a first game program that provides a game medium corresponding to the winning combination is read and the basic game is First game control means to execute;
A second game in which when a predetermined condition is satisfied, a second game program that causes a hero character and an opponent character to appear, battles both characters, and determines the victory or defeat is read and a specific game is executed separately from the basic game Control means;
An image display means for displaying a game image relating to the basic game and the specific game, and a slot machine comprising:
When a game image related to the specific game is displayed by the image display unit as the specific game is executed by the second game control unit, the main character is displayed on a predetermined area surface of the display surface of the image display unit. Touch switch means for displaying a plurality of battle items used when the character battles with the opponent character and selecting one battle item from the plurality of battle items as a display area of the battle items;
In response to the player operating the touch switch means based on the intention and selecting the one battle item, the hero character battles the opponent character using the selected battle item. First rendering means for displaying a state of being displayed as a game image on the display surface of the image display means;
An internal lottery for determining a battle result in the specific game while the battle game images of both the main character and the opponent character are displayed on the display surface of the image display unit by the first rendering unit. First lottery means for executing
When the internal lottery by the first lottery means ends, a state in which the battle between the main character and the opponent character ends based on the lottery result is displayed as a game image on the display surface of the image display means. 2 production means;
When the result of the battle between the main character and the opponent character is displayed on the display screen of the image display means by the second rendering means, the main character as the result of the internal lottery by the first lottery means. A payout means for giving a first payout when it is decided to win, and a second payout that is lower than the first payout when the main character is decided to lose; A slot machine characterized by including.   The second game control means is provided on the condition that a specific character symbol to be the opponent character is included in a symbol group belonging to the column in which the variable display of symbols is finally stopped. The slot machine according to claim 1, wherein the specific game is executed based on a program.   The second game control means executes the specific game on the condition that the symbol group belonging to the column where the symbol change display is finally stopped includes the specific character symbol to be the opponent character. 2. The slot machine according to claim 1, further comprising second lottery means for executing an internal lottery for determining whether or not to perform.   The second game control means is provided on the condition that the specific game is determined to be executed as a result of the internal lottery of the specific game being determined by the second lottery means. 4. The slot machine according to claim 3, wherein the opponent character corresponding to the specific character symbol is displayed on the display surface of the image display means together with the main character from a symbol. The first game control means rotates and stops the plurality of symbol display means in which the plurality of types of symbols are arranged by using a mechanical element, thereby changing the symbols on each symbol display means within the display window. And stop display,
The image display means is provided so as to cover the display window, and the area corresponding to the display window is a transmission area so that the fluctuation and stop of the symbols of the symbol display means can be visually observed. The slot machine according to claim 1, wherein:   When the final symbol display means stops, the second game control means includes a specific character symbol to be the opponent character in the stop display symbol group of the final symbol display means in the display window. 6. The slot machine according to claim 5, wherein the specific game is executed based on the second game program on the condition that the game is executed.   When the final symbol display means stops, the second game control means includes a specific character symbol to be the opponent character in the stop display symbol group of the final symbol display means in the display window. 6. The slot machine according to claim 5, further comprising second lottery means for executing an internal lottery for determining whether or not to execute the specific game on the condition that the specific game is executed.   The second game control means is provided on the condition that the specific game is determined to be executed as a result of the internal lottery of the specific game being determined by the second lottery means. 8. The slot machine according to claim 7, wherein the opponent character corresponding to the specific character symbol is displayed on the display surface of the image display means together with the main character from a symbol.   The said 2nd game control means displays the some battle | competition item which gives the impression that the reliability with respect to the said battle | competition mutually differs on the predetermined area | region of the said display surface of the said image display means, It is characterized by the above-mentioned. The slot machine according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

Images