JP2007301104A - Slot machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a slot machine which can wipe out suspicion felt by players about the result of the lottery for the shift to a high-probability mode. <P>SOLUTION: The slot machine 10 comprises a touch panel operation means (touch panel 32) which makes a prescribed area function as a touch panel for promoting the selection by the players in a display surface 31a of an image display means (liquid crystal display device 30)when a bonus game to be executed by the second game control means (CPU 106) is ended and the second lottery means (CPU 106) which executes an internal lottery for determining whether the game state should go into a free game or not in a bonus high-probability mode responding to the select operation done with the touch panel. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2008,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a slot machine. In particular, the present invention relates to a slot machine that displays an effect as if an opportunity to involve the player's intention is given in the lottery for determining the number of times of transition to the high probability mode.

In a conventional slot machine, for example, as disclosed in Patent Document 1, whether or not to shift the game state to the high probability mode by generating random numbers in a predetermined range and extracting the generated random numbers. The lottery is configured to be performed.
JP 2005312791 A

  However, in the slot machines as described above, since the transition to the high probability mode is determined by the electronic lottery inside the machine, there is room for the player's intention to be involved in determining the transition to the high probability mode. There is no. For this reason, the player is often distrusted with the lottery result of the transition to the high probability mode. Such distrust is particularly noticeable in the high-probability mode transition lottery after the bonus game ends.

  Therefore, in order to dispel such distrust of the player, the present invention displays an effect display as if the player's intention is involved in the lottery for determining the number of times of transition to the high probability mode. An object is to provide a slot machine to perform.

(1) A plurality of symbol display means (mechanical reels 3A to 3E) which perform change display and stop display of a plurality of types of symbols including a bonus trigger symbol necessary for the basic game for each column;
Game start accepting means (start switch 25) for accepting a player's basic game start operation for each game;
First lottery means (CPU 106) for executing an internal lottery for determining the appearance mode of a final stop symbol on condition that the basic game start operation is accepted by the game start accepting means (start switch 25). )When,
When the game start accepting means (start switch 25) accepts the start operation of the basic game, the internal lottery for determining the stop symbol by the first lottery means (CPU 106) is executed to finally The appearance mode of the stop symbol is determined, and the variable display of symbols belonging to all the columns is started by the plurality of symbol display means (mechanical reels 3A to 3E), and then the final stop symbol appearance mode is determined. Based on the result of the internal lottery, the symbols belonging to all the columns are initially displayed by the plurality of symbol display means (mechanical reels 3A to 3E), and the combination of the stop symbols at that time wins a winning combination. If so, it is programmed to give game media according to the winning combination. And, the first game control means for executing the basic game by reading the first game program (CPU 106),
When the symbols belonging to all columns are stopped and displayed by the plurality of symbol display means (mechanical reels 3A to 3E), if the bonus trigger symbol or the combination of the bonus trigger symbols appears, the second game program is read out. Second game control means (CPU 106) for executing a bonus game;
After the bonus game executed by the second game control means (CPU 106) is finished, the third game program is read to execute a free game in the bonus high probability mode in which the probability of entering the bonus game is high. Game control means (CPU 106);
An image display means (liquid crystal display device 30) for displaying images relating to the basic game, the bonus game, and the free game,
When the bonus game executed by the second game control means (CPU 106) is completed, a touch that causes a predetermined area on the display surface of the image display means (liquid crystal display device 30) to function as a touch switch that prompts the player to select. Switch operating means (touch panel 32);
Second lottery means (CPU 106) for executing an internal lottery for determining whether or not to enter the free game in the bonus high probability mode when the selection operation by the touch switch is performed; ,
A free game that allows entry into the bonus high probability mode free game executed by the third game control means (CPU 106) on condition that the internal lottery by the second lottery means (CPU 106) is won. Rush permission means (CPU 106);
When a bonus is acquired in the bonus high probability mode free game executed by the third game control means (CPU 106), a fourth game control for reading the second game program and executing the bonus game Means (CPU 106). A slot machine comprising:

According to the configuration of (1), when the bonus game executed by the second game control means (CPU 106) is completed, the slot machine displays the display surface of the image display means (liquid crystal display device 30). The predetermined area functions as a touch switch that prompts the player to select,
An internal lottery for determining whether or not to enter the free game in the bonus high probability mode when the selection operation by the touch switch is performed is executed,
Allowing entry into the free game in the bonus high probability mode executed by the third game control means (CPU 106) on condition that the internal lottery by the second lottery means (CPU 106) is won;
When a bonus is obtained in the bonus high probability mode free game executed by the third game control means (CPU 106), the bonus game can be executed by reading the second game program. Has an effect.

  Thereby, the slot machine determines whether or not to enter the free game in the bonus high probability mode by the internal lottery by the second lottery means (CPU 106), and the selection operation by the touch switch. The bonus high probability mode free game executed by the third game control means (CPU 106) on the condition that the internal lottery by the second lottery means (CPU 106) is won upon the occurrence of When a bonus is acquired in the bonus high probability mode free game executed by the third game control means (CPU 106), the second game program is read and the bonus game is executed. Can be executed.

  As a result, the slot machine determines whether or not to enter the free game in the bonus high probability mode through an internal lottery while accepting the selection operation of the player as if the slot machine is in the bonus high probability mode. It is possible to make the player feel as if the entry to the free game has been decided.

  In this way, according to the configuration of the present invention, the effect display as if the player's intention is involved in the lottery for determining whether or not to enter the free game in the bonus high probability mode. By performing the above, it is possible to provide a slot machine that can dispel the distrust of the player.

  (2) After the bonus game executed by the fourth game control means (CPU 106) is completed, the bonus amount is increased by the remaining number of executions of the free game determined by the second lottery means (CPU 106). (5) The slot machine according to (1), further including fifth game control means (CPU 106) for resuming and executing the free game in the probability mode.

  According to the configuration of (2), the slot machine has the bonus height determined by the second lottery means (CPU 106) after the bonus game executed by the fourth game control means (CPU 106) ends. There is an effect that the free game can be resumed and executed for the remaining number of times of execution of the free game in the probability mode.

  Thus, the slot machine continues the bonus high probability mode free game for the number of times of execution of the free game determined by the second lottery means (CPU 106), so to speak, the bonus game is in a continuous state. be able to.

  As a result, the player may be able to enjoy the selection operation with a sense of expectation for the continuous state of the bonus game.

  (3) The free game entry permitting means (CPU 106) causes the image display means (liquid crystal display device 30) to display a simulated dart game image imitating a dart game, and the touch switch operating means (touch panel 32) is optional. In response to accepting the selection operation at the timing, the internal lottery for determining whether or not the second lottery means (CPU 106) enters the free game in the bonus high probability mode, According to the number of times of entering the high probability mode determined by the internal lottery by the second lottery means (CPU 106) after the image displaying means (the liquid crystal display device 30) displays an image releasing the pseudo dart toward the mat. (1) or (2), characterized in that an image of hitting a number displayed is displayed. Slot machine.

  According to the configuration of (3), the slot machine displays an image of a simulated dart game imitating a dart game on the image display means (liquid crystal display device 30), and the touch switch operating means (touch panel 32) is optional. In response to accepting the selection operation at the timing, the internal lottery for determining whether or not the second lottery means (CPU 106) enters the free game in the bonus high probability mode, According to the number of times of entering the high probability mode determined by the internal lottery by the second lottery means (CPU 106) after the image displaying means (the liquid crystal display device 30) displays an image releasing the pseudo dart toward the mat. It is possible to display an image that hits the mat with the numbers displayed, and there is an effect that it can be characterized. .

  Thus, the player may be able to enjoy the pseudo dart game selection operation with a sense of expectation for the continuous state of the bonus game.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to dispel the distrust of the player by performing an effect display as if the player's intention is involved in the lottery for determining the number of times of transition to the high probability mode. Can be provided.

  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 FIGS. 2 and 3) each having a plurality of types of symbols drawn on their outer peripheral surfaces are laterally rotatable. 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 45, 45B, 45C, 45D, and 45E (see FIG. 7) to be described later, and the outer peripheral surface thereof is necessary for a basic game. In addition, a plurality of types of symbols including a bonus trigger symbol 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, to be activated, and the activated winning line. 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 outlet 29 is provided for propagating to the sound source.

  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 pay 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 fourth 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 display unit 20 is for displaying the number of BETs, which is the number of coins bet 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 bonus game. Therefore, the liquid crystal display device 30 includes a front panel 31 including a touch panel 32 and a display plate 33, a transparent liquid crystal panel 34, a light guide plate 35, a reflection film 36, and fluorescent lamps 37a and 37b and 38a and 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 row in which 21 symbols represented on the mechanical reels 3A to 3E are arranged. 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” trigger symbol (symbol 61) (hereinafter abbreviated as “bonus”), a “wild” symbol (symbol 62) (hereinafter abbreviated as “wild”), “ “Treasure chest” symbol (symbol 63) (hereinafter abbreviated as “treasure chest”), “Golden mask” symbol (symbol 64) (hereinafter abbreviated as “golden mask”), “Holy Grail” symbol (symbol 65) ( Hereinafter, 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”), “QUEE” "Symbol (symbol 70) (hereinafter abbreviated as" queen ")," jack "symbol (symbol 71) (hereinafter abbreviated as" jack ") and" 10 "symbol (symbol 72) (hereinafter" 10 ") A symbol string composed of (abbreviated as) is represented. 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.

  In addition, 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 bonus 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 the drive of each of the mechanical reels 3A to 3E is stopped and the rotation of all the mechanical reels 3A to 3E is started to stop the variable display of the symbols on the reels 3A to 3E, and the combination of the stop 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, the CPU 106 reads the second game program and executes the bonus game when a bonus trigger symbol or a combination of the symbols appears when all the symbols on the mechanical reels 3A to 3E are stopped and displayed. The second game program is programmed so that a character appears and the character performs a predetermined action. The specific action contents of the character in the bonus game will be described in detail later.

  The ROM 108 has a control program for controlling the slot machine 10 in a centralized manner, a program for executing the routines shown in FIGS. 9 and 13 (hereinafter referred to as “routine execution program”), and a program for executing the control program. Initial data 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. 10 to 12 and FIGS. 15 and 18.

  FIG. 10 shows a probability lottery table used in the basic game. In the basic game probability lottery table, a random number range and a winning probability are registered in association with each winning combination. Therefore, in the basic game lottery process to be described later, for example, when random numbers in the range of “0” to “299” are extracted from the random numbers of “0” to “65535”, the final basic game As a result, it is determined within the machine 10 that a bonus is generated. In other words, the probability that the combination of stop symbols is determined as a combination indicating a bonus winning is “300/65536”. 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. 11 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. 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. 12 shows a payout table used in the basic game. In this basic game winning mode table, the number of coins to be paid out is registered in association with each winning combination for each credit amount bet in one game. Therefore, at the time of winning determination, for example, when “wild” occurs, 50 coins are paid out when the BET credit number is “1”, and 100 coins when the BET credit number is “2”. If the number of BET credits is “3”, 150 coins are paid out.

  FIG. 15 shows a probability lottery table used in the bonus game. In the bonus game probability lottery table, a random number range and a winning probability are registered in association with each item appearing in the game image in response to a player's selection operation in the bonus game. Therefore, in the bonus game lottery process described later, the first payout is made when a random number in the range of “0” to “16383” is extracted from the random numbers of “0” to “65535”. It is determined inside the slot machine 10 that “treasure” as one payout item appears. In other words, the probability that the above-mentioned “treasure” (first payout item) appears and the first payout is made is “16384/65536”. On the other hand, when random numbers in the range of “16384” to “65535” are extracted from the random numbers of “0” to “65535”, the second payout that is lower than the first payout is made. It is determined in the machine 10 that “scorpion” as a payout item appears. In other words, the probability that the “scorpion” (second payout item) appears and the second payout is made is “49152/65536”.

  FIG. 18 shows a payout table used in the bonus game. In the bonus game payout table, as will be described later, the coin payout number and the character POWER count subtraction value are registered in association with each item taken out by the character. Therefore, when the “treasure” as the first payout item is taken out by the character, the first payout is made and 100 coins are paid out. At this time, the POWER count value of the character does not decrease. On the other hand, when the “scorpion” as the second payout item is taken out by the character, 10 coins are paid out as the second payout. At this time, the POWER count value of the character is decreased by “3”.

  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 and 13.

  9 and 13 show a routine for controlling the slot machine 10 executed by the control device 100 described above. The series of routines shown in FIG. 9 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 FIG.

  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 S12. 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 S12, 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. If it is determined that the value of the credit number C is less than the total bet number in the previous game (when NO is determined in the process of step S12), the CPU 106 cannot start the game, so 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 S12), 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 basic game lottery process for determining a winning combination by electronic lottery inside the slot machine 10. Specific processing contents of the 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 the basic game probability lottery table (see FIG. 10) and the winning mode table (not shown) stored in the ROM 108, and stores the read probability lottery table and winning mode table in a predetermined memory area of the RAM 110. Store. The basic game probability lottery table is prepared for each reel. The CPU 106 reads the probability lottery table and the winning mode table stored in the predetermined memory area of the RAM 110, refers to the probability lottery table using the random number value written in the predetermined memory area of the RAM 110 as a parameter, and thereby A combination of stop symbols for the active line is determined. 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. 11) 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 S6, 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 rotation of the mechanical reels 3A to 3E is started, the CPU 106 waits for a predetermined time to elapse (step S7). When the predetermined time has elapsed (when it is determined YES in step S7), the CPU 106 automatically stops the rotation of the mechanical reels 3A to 3E (step S8). Specifically, the CPU 106 displays that the stop symbol corresponding to the winning combination determined in step S5 has a visually interactive relationship 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 area. Thereafter, the CPU 106 moves the process to step S9.

  In step S9, the CPU 106 determines whether or not a winning combination has been established (step S9). 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. If the winning flag has not been validated (when NO is determined in the process of step S9), the CPU 106 determines that no winning combination has 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 S9), the CPU 106 determines that a winning combination has been established, and moves the process to step S10.

  In step S10, the CPU 106 determines whether or not the established winning combination is a combination that allows a transition to a bonus game, that is, a “bonus”. Specifically, the CPU 106 makes a determination based on the type of winning flag stored in the RAM 110. When the activated winning flag is a flag indicating a “bonus” winning (when it is determined YES in the process of step S10), the CPU 106 determines that the game state should be shifted to the bonus game, and the process To step S11. On the other hand, when the activated winning flag is a flag indicating a winning other than “bonus” (when it is determined NO in the process of step S10), the CPU 106 pays out coins according to the winning combination. It is determined that it should be performed, and the process proceeds to step S13.

  In step S11, the CPU 106 performs a bonus game process described later with reference to FIG. When the bonus game process ends, the CPU 106 ends this routine.

  On the other hand, when proceeding to step S13, the CPU 106 pays out the number of coins corresponding to the winning combination other than the “bonus” in a predetermined manner. Specifically, the CPU 106 refers to a basic game winning / dispensing table (see FIG. 12) to calculate 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. When the process in step S13 ends, the CPU 106 ends this routine.

  Next, the flow of the bonus game processing operation will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, the CPU 106 of the control device 100 issues a bonus game execution start command to the display / input control device 200, and a bonus game image is displayed on the display surface 31 a of the liquid crystal display device 30 by the display / input control device 200. Display. In the bonus game image, as shown in FIG. 14 (1), a power meter 85 indicating the power of the character 81 appears together with the character 81. At this time, the POWER count N of the power meter 85 displayed together with the character 81 on the display surface 31a of the liquid crystal display device 30 is set to “15” (step S21).

  Referring to FIG. 13 again, when the POWER count N is set to “15”, the CPU 106 issues a take-out port display command to the display / input control device 200, and the liquid crystal display device 30 is displayed by the display / input control device 200. The image of three sun reliefs is displayed on the display surface 31a together with the character as the extraction port (step S22). This state is shown in (1) of FIG. The image display areas of the three sun reliefs 82, 83, and 84 on the display surface 31a of the liquid crystal display device 30 function as touch switches as described later. Thereafter, the CPU 106 moves the process to step S23.

  In step S23, the CPU 106 waits for any one sun relief to be selected by an operation through the player's touch panel. When one sun relief is selected by operating the touch switch, the CPU 106 moves the process to step S24. At this time, if it is selected that the payout item is taken out from the central sun relief 83 by operating the touch switch, the selected central sun relief 83 is zoomed up together with the character 81 as shown in FIG. Then, a state in which the character 81 puts his hand into the hole 83 </ b> A of the central sun relief 83 is displayed on the display surface 31 a of the liquid crystal display device 30.

  Returning to FIG. 13, when the process proceeds to step S <b> 24, the CPU 106 takes out any payout item of the first payout item and the second payout item from the sun relief selected by the touch switch selection method by the character. A bonus game lottery process for determining whether or not by electronic lottery inside the machine 10 is performed. The specific processing contents of this bonus game lottery processing are as follows.

  In the bonus game lottery process, when a sun relief from which a payout item is to be extracted 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 Random numbers within a predetermined range generated by 112 (“0” to “65535” in the present embodiment) are 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 bonus game probability lottery table (see FIG. 15) stored in the ROM 108 and stores the read probability lottery table in a predetermined memory area of the RAM 110. The CPU 106 reads out the probability lottery table stored in the predetermined memory area of the RAM 110, refers to the probability lottery table using the random number value written in the predetermined memory area of the RAM 110 as a parameter, and thereby selects the selected sun relief. The type of payout item to be taken out by the character is determined. Thus, when the type of payout item to be taken out by the character from the selected sun relief is determined, the CPU 106 stores the determined payout item 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.

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

  In step S25, the CPU 106 issues a payout item display command to the display / input control apparatus 200, and displays an image of the payout item corresponding to the type determined by the bonus game lottery process by the display / input control apparatus 200. The image is displayed on the display surface 31 a of the display device 30. Specifically, when it is determined in the bonus game lottery process that the second payout item will appear, the character 81 moves through the hole 83A in the center sun relief 83 as shown in FIG. A state where “scorpion” is taken out as the second payout item is displayed on the display surface 31 a of the liquid crystal display device 30. On the other hand, when it is determined in the bonus game lottery process that the first payout item will appear, the character 81 moves from the hole 83A of the central sun relief 83 to the first as shown in (3) of FIG. A state where “treasure” is taken out as a payout item is displayed on the display surface 31 a of the liquid crystal display device 30.

  Referring to FIG. 13 again, when the process proceeds to step S26, the CPU 106 makes a payout according to the type of payout item displayed on the display surface 31a of the liquid crystal display device 30 in the above-described step S25 in a predetermined manner. Specifically, the CPU 106 reads out data indicating the type of payout item written in a predetermined memory area of the RAM 110 and a bonus game payout table (see FIG. 18) stored in the ROM 108. Then, the CPU 106 refers to the basic game payout / payout table (see FIG. 12) using the payout item data as a parameter, and calculates the payout number of coins corresponding to the type of payout item extracted by the character. 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 moves the process to step S29. In the present embodiment, when “treasure” (first payout item) is taken out, 100 coins are paid out as the first payout. On the other hand, when the “scorpion” (second payout item) is taken out, 10 coins are paid out as the second payout.

  In the process of step S26 described above, the number of coins to be paid out is stored as credits. You may make it pay out.

  In step S27, the CPU 106 determines whether or not the payout made in step S26 is the second payout. When the payout made is the second payout (in the case of YES), the CPU 106 subtracts “3” from the POWER count value N of the power meter 85 indicating the power of the character (step S28). Thereafter, the CPU 106 moves the process to step S29. On the other hand, if the payout made is the first payout (in the case of NO), the CPU 106 moves the process to step S29 without performing the POWER count subtraction process.

  In step S29, the CPU 106 determines whether or not the value of the POWER count N exceeds “0”. When the value of the POWER count N exceeds “0” (when it is determined YES in the process of step S29), the CPU 106 shifts the process to step S31. On the other hand, when the value of POWER count N is “0” (when NO is determined in the process of step S29), CPU 106 advances the process to step S30.

  In step S30, the CPU 106 issues a bonus game end command to the display / input control device 200, and the display / input control device 200 displays an image corresponding to the end of the bonus game on the display surface 31a of the liquid crystal display device 30. To end this routine.

  In step S31, the CPU 106 determines whether or not the POWER count value N exceeds “3”. When the POWER count value N does not exceed “3” (in the case of NO), the CPU 106 issues a take-out port display command to the display / input control device 200, and the display / input control device 200 displays a liquid crystal display. Three sun-relief images are displayed on the display surface 31a of the device 30 together with the character as the extraction port (step S32). Then, the CPU 106 issues a warning notification command to the display / input control device 200, and the display / input control device 200 causes three suns on the display surface 31a of the liquid crystal display device 30 as shown in FIG. The images of the reliefs 82 to 84 are displayed together with a warning (step S33). Thereafter, the CPU 106 returns the process to step S23 again. On the other hand, when the POWER count N is “3” or more (in the case of YES), the CPU 106 returns the process to step S22 again without performing the warning process.

  Here, (1) of FIG. 14 is a display example when the value of the POWER count N is “15”. On the other hand, (2) of FIG. 14 is a display example when the value of the POWER count N is “3”. The POWER count is an index that suggests the power of the character 81 displayed on the display surface 31 a of the liquid crystal display device 30, and indicates that the power remains as the numerical value increases.

  In the above display example, a state in which the character 81 finds three sun reliefs 82 to 84 (extraction openings) is shown. The sun reliefs 82 to 84 are provided with holes 82 </ b> A to 84 </ b> A, respectively, and a voice saying “There seems to be something in that hole” flows from the speaker 41 described above. For the player, it is understood that the area where the sun reliefs 82 to 84 are displayed on the display surface 31a of the liquid crystal display device 30 functions as the touch switch for selecting one option from a plurality of options. be able to.

  A power meter 85 indicating the physical strength of the main character is provided below the display surface 31a. “MIN” is displayed on the left side of the power meter 85, “MAX” is displayed on the right side, and a five-step scale is displayed on the center. In the display example of (1) in FIG. 14, since all the five scales are lit and displayed, the player can recognize that the physical strength of the character 81 is maximum.

  On the other hand, in the display example of (2) in FIG. 14, the power meter 85 is lit and displayed with only one scale among the five scales. Further, the word “WARNING” is displayed above the power meter 85, and a warning sound flows from the speaker 41 described above. The player can grasp that the bonus game may end depending on the game result.

  Here, one division of the scale corresponds to three POWER counts. Specifically, when the value of the POWER count N is “1” to “3”, the left one of the five scales is lit and displayed. When the value of the POWER count N is “4” to “6”, two scales on the left of the five scales are lit. When the value of the POWER count N is “7” to “9”, the left three scales of the five levels are lit up. When the value of the POWER count N is “10” to “12”, the four scales on the left of the five scales are lit. When the value of the POWER count N is “13” to “15”, all the five scales are lit and displayed.

  Here, referring to FIG. 16, when the value of POWER count N is “15”, a display example when the player touches any of the sun reliefs 82 to 84 via the touch switch. explain.

  (1) of FIG. 16 shows a display example when the hand touches the central sun relief 83 through the touch switch among the three sun reliefs 82 to 84. In this display example, a state in which the character 81 puts his arm in the hole 83A of the central sun relief 83 is shown. In addition, the above-mentioned speaker 41 emits a voice “Let's do this”.

  (2) of FIG. 16 shows a display example when the item in the hole 83A of the central sun relief 83 selected by the touch switch selection method is “scorpion”. In this display example, the character 81 grabs the “scorpion” (second payout item) and is in pain. Further, the above-mentioned speaker 41 emits a voice “Wow!”.

  Below the “scorpion” as the second payout item, characters “−3 POWER” are displayed, and the power meter 85 is lit and displayed with up to four scales out of the five scales. By this display, the player can grasp that the character 81 has been bitten by the “scorpion” (second item) and has been damaged.

  In this display example, the character “10” is displayed on the front side of the character 81. By this display, the player can grasp that 10 coins have been obtained as the second payout.

  (3) of FIG. 16 shows a display example when the item in the hole 83A of the central sun relief 83 selected by the touch switch selection method is “treasure”. In this display example, the character 81 grabs the “treasure” (first item) and is pleased. In addition, the above-mentioned speaker 41 emits a voice “Iohoo!”.

  Further, in this display example, the character “100” is displayed on the front side of the character 81. With this display, the player can grasp that 100 coins have been acquired as the first payout.

  When the value of the POWER count N is decreased to “3”, the warning display is performed until the bonus game is ended as shown in FIG.

  FIG. 19 shows a display example when the value of the POWER count N becomes “0”, that is, a display example 4 of a display image in the bonus game. In this display example, a state in which the character 81 escapes from the sun reliefs 82 to 84 is displayed. At this time, a disappointing sound flows from the speaker 41 described above. The player can grasp that the bonus game is ended and the game state shifts from the bonus game to the basic game.

  In addition, whether the power of the character is reduced is determined by the first item (treasure) and the second item (scorpion) from the take-out port (sun relief) selected by the touch panel selection method based on the intention of the player. Since it depends on which item the character takes out, it is possible to give the player an impression that the player's will is involved in determining the number of bonus games.

In the present embodiment, as an aspect related to the above-described warning notification, an aspect in which the bonus game end is visually recognized by displaying a warning on the bonus game screen is employed. It is possible to adopt a mode in which the end of the bonus game is audibly recognized by issuing a sound, or a mode in which the end of the bonus game is recognized from both the visual and auditory sides by a combination thereof.
[Bonus High Probability Mode Lottery / Direction Processing]

  Next, a bonus high probability mode lottery / effect process for determining whether or not to enter a free game in the bonus high probability mode executed by the slot machine 10 after the above-described bonus game is completed will be described.

  FIG. 20 is a diagram for explaining the game state transition process including the bonus high probability mode lottery / effect process described above.

  As shown in FIG. 20, the slot machine 10 enters a bonus game in which the game state is relatively advantageous over the basic game due to the appearance of bonus trigger symbols or combinations thereof on the active line in the basic game as described above. Decide and run the bonus game. In the example of FIG. 20, two types of bonus games having different effects of “first bonus game (SUN BONUS)” and “second bonus game (CONDOR BONUS)” are executed.

  In the first bonus game, as described above with reference to FIG. 13, the main character finds a sun relief, the player selects one of the three options using a touch panel, takes out an item from the relief, An effect of obtaining a (dividend) may be performed. In the second bonus game, the hero character discovers an emerald that shines in the Condor Palace, and when he tries to take the emerald, the floor falls out and falls to the basement of the ruins. An effect may be performed in which the player selects one of them from the touch panel and obtains a payout.

  After the bonus game ends, the slot machine 10 executes a lottery / effect process for determining whether or not to shift the game state to a free game in the bonus high probability mode with a high probability of entering the bonus game.

  As a result of the lottery / effect process, if the game state is to be shifted to the free game in the bonus high probability mode, the slot machine 10 executes the free game in the bonus high probability mode. Otherwise, the game state is shifted to the normal mode and the basic game is executed.

  In the above-described free game with a high probability of bonus, the bonus game is entered with a high probability. Therefore, when actually entering the bonus game, it is possible to make a state of continuous bonus firing.

  Therefore, there is a possibility that the player can enjoy the lottery / effect process with such a sense of expectation for bonus consecutive firing.

  FIG. 21 is a diagram for explaining the details of the lottery / effect process for determining whether or not to shift the game state to the free game in the bonus high probability mode in which the game state described in FIG. 20 has a high probability of entering the bonus game. is there.

  First, the free game entry permitting means (CPU 106) uses the second lottery means (CPU 106) to determine whether or not to shift to the bonus high probability mode by lottery (internal lottery) (step S31).

  Next, the free game entry permitting means (CPU 106) displays an initial screen of a dart game as a pseudo lottery on the display surface 31a of the liquid crystal display device 30. (Step S32)

  FIG. 22 is a diagram illustrating an example of an initial screen of the dart game as the pseudo lottery.

  In this example, the free game entry permission means (CPU 106) displays an image of a mato in which the title character “FREE GAME CHANCE” is displayed as the title of the initial screen and a number indicating the number of times the free game is executed in the bonus high probability mode. Is displayed on the display surface 31a to suggest a free game in the bonus high probability mode to the player, thereby producing an effect that improves the sense of expectation for the dart game.

  Next, the free game entry permitting means (CPU 106) starts a timer (step S33) and displays a screen prompting the player to perform a dart game throwing operation on the display surface 31a (step S34).

  FIG. 23 is a diagram illustrating an example of a screen that prompts the player to perform a dart game throwing operation.

  In this example, the free game entry permitting means (CPU 106) blinks or highlights a circular mark on the portion of the knife (like a pseudo dart) that the character displayed on the display surface 31a holds. And prompting the player to throw.

  Here, the free game entry permitting means (CPU 106) causes a predetermined area of the display surface 31a of the liquid crystal display device 30 to function as a touch panel 32 that can accept a direct touch operation by the player by means of the touch switch operating means. .

  In this example, for example, the above-described circular mark area is an area that can accept a throwing operation by a touch operation.

  Next, when the lottery result by the second lottery means (CPU 106) determines the shift to the bonus high probability mode (step S35), the free game entry permitting means (CPU 106) performs the process at step S36. If not, move to step S37.

  In step S36, the free game entry permitting means (CPU 106) displays an image suggesting the timing of the throwing for winning the dart game on the display surface 31a.

  The display of “Now !!!!” shown in FIG. 23 is an example of an image that suggests the timing of throwing for winning the dart game.

  In this example, the free game entry permitting means (CPU 106) rotates the dart mat displayed on the display surface 31a, and further displays the image of “Now!” On the display surface 31a in a dart game. This suggests the timing of the touch operation on the touch panel 32 by the player for winning (to hit a mat that describes the number of times of execution of a free game other than zero).

  In this example, the display of the image for making the suggestion is performed when the lottery result by the second lottery means (CPU 106) determines the transition to the bonus high probability mode. Therefore, the case where the display of such an image for suggestion is performed and the case where it is not so may be interwoven.

  In that case, the player may actually win the free game even if there is no such suggestion, and the player will also have fun to devise and practice how to measure timing, and enjoy more immersing in the game Could be possible.

  Next, the free game entry permitting means (CPU 106) determines whether or not the dart game throwing operation by the player has been received by the touch panel 32 (step S37), and if it is determined that it has been received, the process proceeds to step S39. . If not, the process proceeds to step S38.

  Next, in step S38, the free game entry permitting means (CPU 106) determines whether or not the timer has exceeded a predetermined period. If it is determined that the timer has exceeded, the process proceeds to step S39. If it is determined that this is not the case, the process returns to S35 and a series of processes are executed again.

  As described above, the free game entry permitting means (CPU 106) accepts a dart game throwing operation by the player or displays a dart throwing image on the display surface 31a when it is determined that the timer has exceeded a predetermined period. (Step S39).

  Next, the free game entry permitting means (CPU 106) displays a result image of the dart game corresponding to the lottery result by the second lottery means (CPU 106) on the display surface 31a (step S40).

  24 and 25 are diagrams showing an example of the result image of the dart game displayed on the display surface 31a in accordance with the lottery result by the second lottery means (CPU 106).

  FIG. 24 shows an image in which a knife that looks like a pseudo dart hit the dart mat on which “20” is displayed on the display surface 31a of the liquid crystal display device 30. The second lottery means (CPU 106 ) Is displayed when it is determined that the lottery result by 20 is to execute the free game 20 times. In addition, the character “FREE GAME 20” is displayed together with the image that the character who threw the knife is proud of, so that the player can be surely notified that the free game has been executed 20 times.

  On the other hand, FIG. 25 shows an image in which a knife that looks like a pseudo dart hit a dart mat with “0” displayed on the display surface 31 a of the liquid crystal display device 30, and the second lottery means The lottery result by (CPU 106) is displayed when it is determined that the free game is not to be executed (lost). In addition, the character “FREE GAME 0” is displayed together with the image of the character who threw the knife mourns, so that the player can be surely notified that the player has lost the free game.

  According to this embodiment, the following operational effects are obtained.

  When the bonus game is over, the slot machine 10 causes the predetermined area of the display surface 31a of the liquid crystal display device 30 to function as a touch switch (touch panel 32) that prompts the player to select, and the selection operation using the touch switch has been performed. Then, an internal lottery for determining whether or not to enter the free game in the bonus high probability mode is executed. Furthermore, the slot machine 10 allows entry into the free game in the bonus high probability mode on condition that the internal lottery is won. Furthermore, the slot machine 10 has an effect that the bonus game can be executed when a bonus is acquired in the free game in the bonus high probability mode.

  As a result, the slot machine 10 determines whether or not to enter the free game in the bonus high probability mode by the internal lottery while the selection operation by the touch panel 32 is performed. On the condition that it is won, the bonus game is allowed to enter the free game in the bonus high probability mode, and when the bonus is acquired in the free game in the bonus high probability mode, the bonus game can be executed.

  The present invention is not limited to the above embodiment.

  In the above-described example, a pseudo dart game is executed, but various games that can be used to notify the number of executions of a roulette game, a janken game, a lottery game, and other free games are displayed on the display surface 31a. It may be displayed.

  At this time, like the above-described dart game, the game that progresses and displays the result upon receipt of an operation on the touch panel 32 that accepts a direct touch operation from the player exhibits the effects of the present invention. This is more preferable.

  In other words, by executing a game that displays progress and results by accepting an operation by the player, the number of free games to be executed is actually determined by internal lottery. There is a possibility that the player can feel as if the player's intention is intervening.

  Although the so-called slot machine has been described in the above-described embodiments, the present invention can be similarly applied to a so-called pachislot machine provided with individual stop control means (for example, a stop button) for each reel. It is.

  In the above-described embodiment, the slot machine having a so-called mechanical reel has been described. However, the present invention can be similarly applied to a slot machine having a so-called visual muting reel by a liquid crystal display device or the like. .

  In the present invention, since it is possible to dispel the distrust of the player with respect to the lottery result of the transition to the high probability mode, the player's intention is involved in the lottery for determining the number of times of transition to the high probability mode. This is useful as a slot machine that displays an effect as if an opportunity has been given.

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. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of processing operation in the basic game of the slot machine. 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 the bonus game of the slot machine. It is a figure which shows the example 1 of a display in a liquid crystal display device. It is a figure which shows the probability lottery table for bonus games. It is a figure which shows the example 2 of a display in a liquid crystal display device. It is a figure which shows the example 3 of a display in a liquid crystal display device. It is a figure which shows the structure of the payout table for bonus games. It is a figure which shows the example 4 of a display in a liquid crystal display device. It is a figure explaining the transition process of the game state including a bonus high probability mode lottery / effect process. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the lottery / production | presentation process of whether to transfer a game state to the free game of a high bonus high probability mode with a high probability of rushing into the said bonus game. It is a figure which shows an example of the initial screen of the darts game as the said pseudo lottery. It is a figure which shows an example of the screen which urges | hangs the throwing operation of the darts game by a player. It is a figure which shows an example of the result image of the dart game displayed on the display surface 31a according to the lottery result by the 2nd lottery means (CPU106). It is a figure which shows an example of the result image of the dart game displayed on the display surface 31a according to the lottery result by the 2nd lottery means (CPU106).

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 Slot machine 3A-3E Mechanical reel 30 Liquid crystal display device 32 Touch panel 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 (3)

A plurality of symbol display means for performing change display and stop display of a plurality of types of symbols necessary for the basic game and including a bonus trigger symbol for each column;
Game start accepting means for accepting a start operation of the basic game by the player for each game;
First lottery means for executing an internal lottery for determining the appearance mode of the final stop symbol, on condition that the start operation of the basic game is accepted by the game start accepting means;
When the game start accepting unit accepts the basic game start operation, the final appearance of the stop symbol is determined by executing an internal lottery for determining the stop symbol by the first lottery unit. And a plurality of symbol display means based on the result of an internal lottery for starting the variable display of symbols belonging to all columns by the plurality of symbol display means and then determining the appearance of the final stop symbol. When the symbols belonging to all the columns by means are initially displayed, and the combination of the stop symbols at that time indicates a winning combination of a combination, it is programmed to give a game medium corresponding to the winning combination, First game control means for reading a first game program and executing the basic game;
When the symbols belonging to all the columns are stopped and displayed by the plurality of symbol display means and the bonus trigger symbol or the combination of the bonus trigger symbols appears, the second game program is read and the bonus game is executed. Two game control means;
Third game control means for reading a third game program and executing a bonus high probability mode free game having a high probability of entering the bonus game after the bonus game executed by the second game control means ends. When,
An image display means for displaying an image relating to the basic game, the bonus game, and the free game,
Touch switch operating means for causing a predetermined area of the display surface of the image display means to function as a touch switch for prompting a player to select when the bonus game executed by the second game control means is completed;
Second lottery means for executing an internal lottery for determining whether or not to enter the free game in the bonus high probability mode when the selection operation by the touch switch is performed;
Free game entry permitting means for allowing entry into the free game in the bonus high probability mode executed by the third game control means on condition that the internal lottery by the second lottery means is won;
A fourth game control means for reading the second game program and executing the bonus game when a bonus is acquired in the bonus high probability mode free game executed by the third game control means; A slot machine characterized by including.   After the bonus game executed by the fourth game control means is completed, the bonus high probability mode free game is resumed by the remaining number of executions of the free game determined by the second lottery means. The slot machine according to claim 1, further comprising fifth game control means for executing.   The free game entry permission means causes the image display means to display an image of a simulated dart game imitating a dart game, and the touch switch operating means accepts the selection operation at an arbitrary timing. The internal lottery for determining whether or not to enter the free game in the bonus high probability mode is executed by the lottery means No. 2 and the image display means displays an image releasing the pseudo dart toward the mat, 3. The image for hitting a mat displayed with a number corresponding to the number of times of entering the high probability mode determined by the internal lottery by the second lottery means is displayed. 4. Slot machine.

Images