JP2008005962A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine capable of appropriately controlling the number of start storages. <P>SOLUTION: The execution of a main game for limiting the number of times of the execution of a game per unit time is controlled, the execution of a subordinate game is instructed corresponding to the result of the main game, the execution of the subordinate game for limiting the generation probability of a special game state based on the execution of the main game is controlled, and the number of the execution instructions of the instructed subordinate game can be stored with a prescribed number as an upper limit. In the case that the number of the stored subordinate game execution instructions is large, the execution of the subordinate game is controlled so as to shorten the average execution time of the subordinate game. The number of the stored execution instructions of the subordinate game capable of instructing the execution of the subordinate is estimated and stored, and the execution of the subordinate game is instructed when the number of the stored execution instructions of the subordinate game is smaller than a predetermined value to be a reference for determining whether or not to instruct the execution of the subordinate game and also the number of stored subordinate game execution instruction possibilities is not 0. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2008,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine, and more particularly to a gaming machine that performs a variable display game.

  Conventionally, the number of start winning balls won in the start winning area provided in the game area is added and stored, and the variable display device is variably displayed for the number of times corresponding to the stored value, and then stop control is performed to identify when stopping In the gaming machine in which a predetermined game value can be given to the player if the identification information derivation control for deriving information is performed and the identification information at the time of the stop becomes specific identification information (for example, 777), A gaming machine that efficiently and variably displays by reducing the time during which identification information derivation control of the special variable display device is performed when the stored value of the number of winning prizes for which derivation control has not yet been performed exceeds a predetermined value Is known (for example, see Patent Document 1).

As a result, when a lot of hitting balls may win in the start winning area in a relatively short time, the identification information derivation control of the variable display device based on the winning balls is not in time for an increase in winning balls. Is prevented from occurring.
Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 5-115594

  In such a gaming machine, there is an upper limit on the number of start prizes to be stored, which often causes an overflow of the start prizes, and due to variations in the start prizes, there is a time when the start prize memory becomes 0 and variable display is not performed. Cannot be solved completely.

  Due to such variations in start winnings, when there are a lot of winnings, the operation is reduced by the player stopping the game. In addition, when the number of winnings is small, the time during which the variable display is not performed increases, and the interest of the game decreases, which leads to separation of customers.

  Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine that can more appropriately control the starting memory number.

  According to a representative embodiment of the present invention, a game that accepts a valuable value that is a value capable of executing a game, executes a game while consuming the received valuable value, and grants a prize based on the result of the game A main game control device that controls the progress of the game and the execution of the main game, and a sub game control device that controls the execution of the sub game based on the result of the main game controlled by the main game control device; The main game control device comprises: main game control means for controlling execution of a main game that limits the number of executions of the game per unit time; and execution of the sub game in accordance with the result of the main game A sub game execution instruction means for instructing the sub game control device, and the sub game control device controls the execution of the sub game to control the special game based on the execution of the main game. Slave game control means for limiting the occurrence probability of the game, and the slave game control means can store the number of instructions to execute the slave game instructed by the slave game execution instruction means up to a predetermined number. When the number of slave game execution instructions stored in the slave game execution instruction number storage means is large, the execution of the slave game is controlled so that the average execution time of the slave game is shortened. The slave game execution instructing means stores slave game execution instruction possible number capable of instructing execution of a game according to the slave game control device, and stores the slave game execution instruction number. Subsidiary game execution instruction number estimation storage means for estimating the number of sub game execution instructions stored in the means and storing the estimated number of sub game execution instructions as a sub game execution instruction estimation number The sub game execution instruction estimated number stored in the sub game execution instruction number estimation storage means is a predetermined value that serves as a reference for determining whether or not to instruct execution of the sub game. When the sub game execution instruction possible number stored in the sub game execution instruction possible number storage means is not 0 when the value is smaller than the starting memory number reference value, the sub game is executed. Instruct the game control device.

  According to one aspect of the present invention, when the number of instructions for executing the secondary game is less than the starting memory number reference value and the number of possible instructions for executing the secondary game is not 0, execution of the secondary game is instructed. By appropriately controlling the game machine, it contributes to the enhancement of the player's interest in the secondary game and the improvement of the operation of the gaming machine in the game store.

  Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

(First embodiment)
FIG. 1 is a front view showing the configuration of the gaming machine 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

  The gaming machine 1 includes a hinge on the left side, and a front panel 3 that can be opened and closed in a single-opening manner with the hinge as an axis. A rectangular opening 31 is formed in the approximate center of the front panel 3. Below the opening 31, a bill accepting machine 2 and a prize dispenser 4 are provided.

  A light source unit (not shown) having substantially the same shape and area as the opening 31 is disposed on the back side of the front panel 3. On the front surface of the light source unit, a thin image display device 5 for displaying a game image such as a variable display image and a transmission plate 6 made of glass or transparent resin for protecting the image display device 5 are arranged. The light source unit includes a backlight (light source) (not shown) that irradiates the image display device 5 from the back side. The image display device 5 is composed of, for example, a 21-inch LCD (liquid crystal display).

  The display screen displayed by the LCD is provided with a plurality of display screens (windows) such as a main screen 51 and a sub screen 71. The gaming machine 1 changes (changes display) the symbols (identification information) displayed on each display screen, stops (stops display) changes in the symbols displayed on each display screen, and produces a variable display game. Or the like to be displayed on each display screen.

  On the main screen 51, an effect of the main game started by the player operating the game start button 24 is displayed. The main game is a game that gives an opportunity to start a sub-game to be described later. By limiting the number of executions per unit time of the main game, the consumption of valuable value can be controlled. That is, it can be said that the restriction on the number of executions of the main game per unit time limits the consumption of valuable value per unit time. With this function, it is possible to prevent the player from being excessively involved in the game.

  Here, on the main screen 51 of the image display device 5, a target second character 55 in the upper right, which is an image relating to the main game, and a first character 53 of a cannonball flying aiming at the target second character 55. Is displayed. Further, the sub screen 71 displays an image relating to the sub game, and a variable display area 73 (eg, “7”, “7”, “7”, etc.) including three symbols.

  Above the opening 31, there is provided a decoration 8 for displaying effects and information related to the variable display game. When an abnormality occurs in the gaming machine 1, a pilot lamp (not shown) provided in the decoration unit 8 is turned on and a message to that effect is displayed. The decoration unit 8 is controlled by the main game control device 100 (see FIG. 2), and the display content changes.

  A decorative light emitting device (not shown) made up of a lamp, an LED, or the like is provided at a key point of the front panel 3. The decorative light emitting device emits light corresponding to the gaming state of the gaming machine 1 when a big hit state or abnormality occurs.

  A speaker (sound output device) (not shown) is provided above the decoration portion 8. The speaker is controlled by the sub display control device 250 (see FIG. 2) and outputs a sound effect in the big hit state to improve the fun of the game.

  The banknote accepting machine 2 includes a slot 21, a game start button 24, and a banknote determination device (not shown). The bill accepting machine 2 is a device that accepts a bill inserted by the player into the insertion slot 21.

  The insertion slot 21 receives bills inserted by the player. When the banknote accepting machine 2 accepts the banknote, a banknote acceptance signal is transmitted to the main game control device 100 via the I / O port 110.

  The game start button 24 is a button for instructing the start of the game when operated by the player. When the game start switch 24A detects an operation of the game start button 24 by the player, a detection signal is output. A banknote determination apparatus is an apparatus which determines the authenticity and money amount of a banknote.

  The prize payer 4 includes a payout exit 41 for paying a prize to a player. The prize dispenser 4 is an apparatus that dispenses prizes to the player according to the game result. When the payout machine 4 detects a payout command signal output from the main game control device 100, the payout machine 4 pays out a predetermined prize (for example, a gift certificate) stored in the prize hangar from the payout exit 41. A prize is paid out when a specific prize (specific valuable value) is obtained or when a given prize reaches a predetermined amount.

  FIG. 2 shows a main part of the control system centering on the main game control device 100, the LCD control device 150, the sub game control device 200, and the sub display control device 250 of the gaming machine 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. The LCD controller 150 will be described in detail with reference to FIG.

  The control system of the gaming machine 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention includes a main game control device 100, an LCD control device 150, a sub game control device 200, and a sub display control device 250.

  The main game control device 100 is a control device that performs overall control of the game (control processing of the progress of the entire game, control processing of the progress of the main game, and control of other control devices and each controlled device). RAM 113, communication port 114, and I / O port 110. The main game control device 100 functions as main game control means.

  The CPU 111 is an arithmetic processing unit that controls the game control of the main game and the control of the entire gaming machine. The ROM 112 is a memory that stores invariant information for game control of the main game and control of the entire gaming machine. The RAM 113 is a memory that stores a program and control data for executing control processing and is used as a work area in processing executed by the CPU. The communication port 114 and the I / O port 110 are input / output ports for the main game control apparatus 100 to transmit / receive signals to / from other devices.

  These CPU 111, ROM 112, RAM 113, communication port 114, and I / O port 110 are connected by a bus. The bus is configured by an address bus and a data bus used by the CPU 111 for reading and writing data.

  The CPU 111 includes a calculation unit and performs various calculation processes for game control. The ROM 112 stores a program for executing control processing and control data (for example, a determination value for lottery).

  The RAM 113 stores a lottery random number storage area generated by the CPU 111, and other various data (for example, the number of credits (value value) received by the gaming machine 1 when the player inserts banknotes, and the prize (special value) acquired by the player A storage area for temporarily storing a valuable value) and the like, and a work area for temporarily storing data necessary for the operation of the CPU 111.

  The I / O port 110 includes a low-pass filter and a buffer gate, and functions as an input / output interface for transmitting and receiving signals from the game start switch 24A, the bill acceptor 2 and the prize dispenser 4. Further, the I / O port 110 is an input / output for transmitting / receiving various signals such as a start signal (SPIN signal), a count signal, a discharge command signal, and a special prize signal to / from the sub game control device 200 via the relay board 300. Functions as an interface.

  The communication port 114 is connected to the LCD control device 150. The communication port 114 transmits a main display control command signal related to the display of the main game from the CPU 111 to the LCD control device 150 and receives a response signal.

  The main game control device 100 is connected to the game start switch 24 </ b> A, the bill accepting machine 2, and the prize dispenser 4 via the I / O port 110. The game start switch 24A is a switch that detects that the game start button 24 has been operated.

  The main game control device 100 displays, on the LCD control device 150, a main game effect pattern command that designates an effect pattern of the main game and a standby screen display in the customer waiting state as a main display control command signal by the CPU 111 and the communication port 114. Demo display command for instructing, main game result command for instructing the result mode of the main game, jackpot command for instructing display during jackpot, credit number display command for instructing display of the remaining amount of received value, An award display command for instructing the display of the amount, a settlement display command for instructing display of the settlement state, an error command for instructing display of an error content in error, a recovery method from the error, and the like are transmitted.

  The sub game control device 200 is a control device for controlling a sub game, and includes a game microcomputer 201, an input interface 202, an output interface 203, and an external communication terminal 204. The sub game control device 200 functions as a slave game control means. The gaming microcomputer 201 includes a CPU that controls the game control of the subgame, a ROM that stores invariant information for the game control of the subgame, and a RAM that is used as a work area during the game control of the subgame. Further, the gaming microcomputer 201 is a one-chip microcomputer in which a CPU, a ROM, and a RAM are housed in one IC package.

  An identification number uniquely set in the gaming microcomputer 201 can be output from the external communication terminal 204, and an inspection device or a management computer (so-called hall computer) is connected to the external communication terminal 204. be able to.

  The inspection apparatus can detect an illegal act such as replacement or modification of the gaming microcomputer 201 based on the identification number of the gaming microcomputer 201. The management computer can identify the gaming machine by the identification number of the gaming microcomputer 201.

  The gaming microcomputer 201 receives a start signal and a count signal via the input interface 202 and performs various processes such as a big hit lottery.

  In addition, the gaming microcomputer 201 transmits a display control command signal according to the sub display control device 250 via the output interface 203 to cause the sub display control device 250 to generate a display image related to the sub game.

  Receiving the start signal, the sub game control device 200 extracts the sub-game random number counter value at the timing of receiving the start signal. The extracted random number counter value is stored in the sub game start storage area of the RAM 113 in the sub game control device 200 with a predetermined number (for example, 4) as an upper limit. The sub game control device 200 executes the sub game based on the random number counter value. Further, the sub game control device 200 outputs a symbol determination signal to be described later to the main game control device 100 at the end of the sub game.

  Further, when the result of the sub game is to generate a special prize, the sub game control apparatus 200 changes the gaming state to the special prize state (big hit state), and the main game control apparatus 100 via the output interface 203 is awarded a special prize. In addition to outputting a signal, a sub display control command signal for causing the sub display control device 250 to start displaying the big hit effect of the sub game is output.

  In addition, the sub game control device 200 receives either a predetermined number of count signals transmitted from the main game control device 100 (for example, 15 × 9 = 135) or an elapse of a predetermined time. ) Is completed, the special prize state is terminated, the output of the special prize signal to the main game control device 110 is stopped, and a sub display control command signal for terminating the sub game big hit effect display is given to the sub display control device 250. Output.

  Specifically, when the sub game control device 200 receives the start signal, the image display device 5 starts a sub game (variable display game) in which the symbols displayed on the sub screen 71 change, and images related to the sub game are displayed. Is displayed.

  When the start signal is received at a predetermined timing (specifically, when the sub game random number counter value extracted at the start signal reception timing is a winning value), the sub game has a predetermined symbol combination ( For example, the game stops when three symbols displayed on the sub-screen 71 are aligned, that is, a jackpot symbol), and the result of the subgame is a jackpot.

  Further, the game microcomputer 201 transmits a special prize signal to the main game control device 100 via the relay board 300 to notify the main game control device 100 of the big hit of the sub game.

  When the main game control device 100 receives the special prize signal transmitted from the sub game control device 200, the main game control device 100 outputs a prize payout signal to the prize payout device 4. That is, a predetermined prize is given to the player by the big hit of the sub game.

  The sub game control device 200 is connected to the sub display control device 250 by the game microcomputer 201 and the output interface 203 as a sub display control command signal as a variation pattern command, a symbol command, a symbol stop command, a start memory display command, a demonstration display command. The jackpot command and the error command are transmitted. Further, the sub game control device 200 transmits a command signal for changing the display mode depending on the game state such as the normal game state, the probability variation state, and the variation time reduction state.

  Communication from the sub game control device 200 to the sub display control device 250 is a unidirectional connection, and a response from the sub display control device 250 to the sub game control device 200 is not communicated. This is to eliminate illegal signal input to the sub game control device 200.

  The sub display control device 250 functions as a display control unit together with the main game control device 100 and the sub game control device 200. The sub display control device 250 includes a gaming microcomputer 251, an input interface 252, an output interface 253, a GDP (Graphic Display Processor) 256, and an image ROM 257.

  The gaming microcomputer 251 includes a CPU that controls display control of the subgame, a ROM that stores invariant information (for example, control data for the image data) for display control of the subgame, and display control of the subgame. It is equipped with a RAM in which a work area is provided. Further, the gaming microcomputer 251 is a one-chip microcomputer in which a CPU, a ROM, and a RAM are housed in one IC package.

  The image ROM 257 is a memory that stores image data (symbol data, background image data, moving image character data, texture data, etc.).

  The CPU provided in the gaming microcomputer 251 is an arithmetic processing unit for display control. The CPU executes the program stored in the ROM included in the gaming microcomputer 251 and thereby performs image control information for the variable display game according to the gaming state based on the signal transmitted from the main gaming control device 100. (Symbol display information composed of sprite data, polygon data, etc., background screen information, video object screen information, etc.) is calculated. Then, the CPU instructs the GDP 256 to generate an image signal to be displayed on the image display device 5.

  The GDP 256 draws an image (polygon image or normal bitmap image) based on the image data stored in the image ROM 257 and the contents calculated by the game microcomputer 251. For example, when a polygon image is drawn, the polygon image is drawn and a predetermined texture is pasted on each polygon and stored in a frame buffer included in the GDP 256. In the frame buffer, image data to be displayed on the image display device 5 is temporarily stored.

  The GDP 256 also performs drawing processing such as point drawing, line drawing, triangle drawing, texture mapping, alpha blending, shading processing (such as glow shading), and hidden surface removal (such as Z buffer processing). The image signal subjected to these drawing processes is stored in a frame buffer provided in the GDP 256.

  Then, the GDP 256 transmits the image stored in the frame buffer to the LCD control device 150 via the relay substrate 300 at a predetermined timing (a timing based on the vertical synchronization signal V_SYNC and the horizontal synchronization signal H_SYNC).

  Here, a plurality of frame buffers are set, and the GDP 256 can be superimposed on an arbitrary image and output.

  An oscillator (not shown) that supplies a clock signal is connected to the GDP 256. The clock signal generated by the oscillator defines the operating period of GDP 256. Further, based on the clock signal output from the oscillator, a vertical synchronization signal (V_SYNC) and a horizontal synchronization signal (H_SYNC) are generated and output as timing signals to the LCD control device 150 via the relay substrate 300.

  The output interface 253 outputs a video signal of an image related to the sub game generated by the sub display control device 250 to the LCD control device 150.

  The sub display control device 250 is connected to an LED and a lamp (not shown) provided in the gaming machine 1. The sub display control device 250 controls these LEDs and lamps to display decorations according to the gaming state of the sub game.

  The sub display control device 250 is connected to a speaker that outputs sound effects based on a control signal transmitted from the sub display control device 250.

  The LCD control device 150 functions as a display control device together with the main game control device 100 and the sub display control device 250, and specifically controls the generation of a display image of the main game and the display of the LCD (image display device) 5.

  The LCD control device 150 is connected to the image display device 5 as described in detail in FIG. The image display device 5 functions as a display device.

  The LCD control device 150 is connected to the main game control device 100 and receives a control signal from the main game control device 100. The LCD control device 150 is connected to the sub display control device 250 via the relay substrate 300. The connection is a unidirectional connection from the sub display control device 250 to the LCD control device 150. Therefore, the connection from the sub game control device 200 to the sub display control device 250 and the LCD control device 150 is unidirectional.

  The relay board 300 relays transmission / reception of signals between the main game control device 100 or the LCD control device 150 and the sub game control device 200 or the sub display control device 250.

  Specifically, the relay board 300 has various information related to the execution of the subgame game and the image display in the gaming machine 1, for example, a start signal for instructing the execution start of the subgame, a count signal for proceeding the display display of the subgame, A special signal for instructing that the sub-game has won a big prize as a result of the internal lottery, a discharge command signal output based on the start signal from the sub-game control device 200, a video signal for displaying a display image of the sub-game, etc. Relay signals for transmission and reception. Note that the relay substrate 300 may be provided with a photocoupler that removes noise from each signal and shapes the waveform of the signal.

  A power supply device (not shown) of the gaming machine includes a backup power supply unit and a power failure monitoring circuit in addition to the power supply circuit. When detecting the voltage drop of the power supply device, the power failure monitoring circuit sequentially outputs a power failure detection signal and a reset signal to the main game control device 100, the sub game control device 200, and the like.

  When the main game control device 100 or the like receives a power failure detection signal, the main game control device 100 or the like performs a predetermined power failure process, and when receiving a reset signal, stops the operation of the CPU. The backup power supply unit supplies backup power to the RAM of the main game control device 100 and the like, so that the number of credits, specific value and game data (game state information indicating a game state such as jackpot, start signal, special prize signal and count signal) Etc.), etc.

  In the present embodiment, the main game control device 100 and the LCD control device 150 are connected via the communication port 114 and a communication port 164 described later, but not limited to this, the communication port 114 and the communication port 164 are connected. You may comprise so that it may connect directly by a bus | bath, without going through. In this case, the bus is constituted by an address bus and a data bus used for reading and writing data.

  Further, in this embodiment, the sub display control device 250 is provided separately from the main game control device 100 and the sub game control device 200, but the sub display control device 250 is provided as the main game control device 100 or the game control device 200. And may be configured integrally.

  In this embodiment, the LCD control device 150 is provided separately from the main game control device 100 and the sub display control device 250. However, the LCD control device 150 is provided in the main game control device 100 or the sub display control device 250. You may comprise integrally.

  FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of the LCD control device 150 according to the first embodiment of this invention.

  As described above, the LCD control device 150 controls the generation of the display image of the main game and the display of the image display device (LCD) 5.

  The LCD control device 150 includes a CPU 161, ROM 162, RAM 163, communication port 164, video input circuit 165, GDP 166, VRAM 168, and video controller 169.

  The CPU 161, ROM 162, RAM 163, communication port 164, video input circuit 165, GDP 166, VRAM 168 and video controller 169 are connected by a bus. The bus is configured by an address bus and a data bus used by the CPU 161, the GDP 166, and the video controller 169 for reading and writing data.

  The communication port 164 is a data input / output unit for performing data communication according to a predetermined communication protocol. The LCD control device 150 is connected to the main game control device 100 via the communication port 164 and receives a control signal transmitted from the main game control device 100 via the communication port 164.

  The LCD control device 150 is connected to the sub display control device 250 via the relay substrate 300. The video signal transmitted from the sub display control device 250 is received by the video input circuit 165.

  The ROM 162 is a memory that stores data such as image data (for example, symbol data, background image data, moving image character data, texture data) related to the program and the main game, and control data for the image data.

  The RAM 163 is a memory provided with a work area when the CPU 161 operates. The VRAM 168 is a memory provided with a frame buffer for temporarily storing image data displayed on the image display device 5.

  The CPU 161 is an arithmetic processing device for display control. The CPU 161 executes a display control program stored in the ROM 162.

  That is, based on the main display control command signal transmitted from the main game control device 100, the CPU 161 displays image data (for example, sprite data, polygon data, etc.) related to the main game stored in the ROM 162. Information, background screen information, video object screen information) is calculated according to the image control information for the main game, and the GDP 166 is instructed to generate an image signal to be displayed on the main screen 51 of the image display device 5.

  Further, the CPU 161 receives the video signal transmitted from the sub display control device 250 and uses the main game image and the received sub game image generated by the GDP 166 to use the main game image and the sub game image. To the GDP 166 to generate an image signal to be displayed on the image display device 5.

  The GDP 166 performs, for example, polygon drawing (or normal bitmap drawing) of the image based on the contents calculated by the CPU 161, and pastes a predetermined texture on each polygon and stores it in the frame buffer of the VRAM 168. To do.

  The GDP 166 also performs drawing processing such as point drawing, line drawing, triangle drawing, texture mapping, alpha blending, shading processing, and hidden surface removal. The image signal subjected to these drawing processes is stored in the frame buffer of the VRAM 168.

  Then, the GDP 166 transmits the image stored in the frame buffer of the VRAM 168 to the image display device 5 at a predetermined timing (a timing based on the vertical synchronization signal V_SYNC and the horizontal synchronization signal H_SYNC).

  Here, the frame buffer sets a plurality of frame buffers in respective predetermined storage areas of the VRAM 168, and the GDP 166 superimposes and outputs the main game image and the sub game image, thereby outputting the main game image and the sub game image. An image signal to be displayed on the image display device 5 is generated in a state where the game image is synthesized so that the sub game image is displayed on the sub screen 71.

  Based on the generated image signal, the main screen 51 on which the main game image is displayed and the sub screen 71 on which the sub game image is displayed are displayed. The main game image is displayed on the main screen 51, and the sub game image is displayed on the main screen 51. It is displayed superimposed on the image display device 5 so as to be displayed on the sub screen 71 (see FIG. 1).

  The GDP 166 is connected to an oscillator that supplies a clock signal. The clock signal generated by the oscillator defines the operating period of the GDP 166. Further, based on the clock signal output from the oscillator, a vertical synchronization signal (V_SYNC) and a horizontal synchronization signal (H_SYNC) are generated and output to the image display device 5 as timing signals.

  The VRAM 168 is provided with a frame buffer for temporarily storing image data displayed on the image display device 5. The GDP 166 draws an image based on the image control information calculated by the CPU 161 as described above, and stores the image signal in the frame buffer of the VRAM 168.

  The video input circuit 165 is a circuit for receiving a video signal related to the sub game transmitted from the sub game display control device 250. The video signal is an RGB signal (digital RGB or analog RGB), but other video signals may be used.

  When the CPU 161 takes in the video signal of the sub game from the video input circuit 165, the CPU 161 instructs the GDP 166 to generate an image signal to be displayed on the image display device 5 by combining with the image of the main game as described above.

  Based on an instruction to generate an image signal by the CPU 161, the GDP 166 outputs an image obtained by superimposing the main game image and the sub game image so that the sub game image is displayed on the sub screen 71. Thus, an image signal to be displayed on the image display device 5 is generated in a state where the main game image and the sub game image are combined so that the sub game image is displayed on the sub screen 71 (sub window). Is done.

  The video controller 169 converts the image data generated by the GDP 166 into a video signal and transmits it to the image display device 5.

  Here, the operation of the gaming machine 1 will be described.

  FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining the operation of the main game control apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment of this invention.

  The main game control device 100 that controls the progress of the game and the execution of the main game includes a credit number storage means 100e that stores the number of credits according to the amount of banknotes received by the gaming machine 1, and the number of times the game is executed per unit time. Main game control means 100a for controlling the execution of the main game that restricts the game, start signal output means 100d for instructing the sub game control apparatus 200 to execute the sub game in response to the result of the main game, and the success or failure of the main game The SPIN winning determination means 100b for determining the lottery result, the SPIN number storage means 100f for storing the SPIN number given to the player due to the success of the main game, and the sub game control device 200 according to the end of the effect of the sub game. A symbol determination signal input means 100h for detecting a symbol determination signal output from the The starting memory number in the sub game control device 200 is estimated from the SPIN number stored in the number storage means 100f and the symbol determination signal detected by the symbol determination signal input means 100h, and the start signal output is output based on the estimated starting memory number. Start signal output control means 100c for controlling, start memory number storage means 100g for storing the start memory number estimated by the start signal output control means 100c, and a start signal for outputting a start signal according to the control result of the start signal output control means Output means 100d is provided.

  The main game control means 100a, the SPIN winning determination means 100b, the start signal output control means 100c, the start signal output means 100d, and the symbol determination signal input means 100h are stored in the ROM 112 by the CPU 111 provided in the main game control device 100. This is realized by executing the program. The credit number storage unit 100e, the SPIN number storage unit 100f, and the starting storage number storage unit 100g are such that the CPU 111 provided in the main game control device 100 executes a program stored in the ROM 112 and inputs / outputs data to / from the RAM 113. It is realized by.

  When a player inserts a banknote into the insertion slot 21, the banknote determination device provided in communication with the insertion slot 21 determines the authenticity and amount of the banknote, and the inserted banknote is a regular banknote. Will accept this bill. When the banknote accepting machine 2 accepts the banknote, a banknote acceptance signal is transmitted to the main game control device 100 via the I / O port 110.

  When receiving the banknote acceptance signal transmitted from the banknote accepting machine 2, the CPU 111 adds the number of credits corresponding to the amount of the accepted banknote and stores it in the RAM 113 functioning as a credit number storage unit. Further, the CPU 111 outputs a display control signal for adding the display of the balance of the number of credits displayed on the image display device 5 to the LCD control device 150.

  The banknote accepted by the banknote accepting machine 2 is stored in a banknote storage (not shown). Further, the current credit amount is displayed at a predetermined position (for example, upper left) of the main screen 51. A balance display unit composed of a 7-segment LED or a liquid crystal display may be provided, and the current credit number may be displayed on the balance display unit.

  Note that the gaming machine 1 provides a game by accepting a bill, but is not limited to this, and is not limited to a coin, a valuable medium such as a predetermined coin or medal that is given a value capable of executing the game, or a prepaid card. The game may be provided based on the recorded valuable data having a value capable of executing the game.

  Here, the prepaid card is a card on which valuable data is recorded using magnetism, IC (integrated circuit) or the like. In this case, a card unit that communicates with the insertion slot 21 and reads / writes information stored in a prepaid card or the like is provided. The gaming machine 1 may accept the value possessed by the valuable data as a credit by reading out the valuable data stored in the prepaid card by the card unit.

  Further, a game may be provided by using an ID card having a uniquely defined ID number and a server that manages valuable data. In this case, the ID number of the ID card possessed by the player is associated with the valuable data possessed by the player. And the gaming machine 1 has the valuable data by reading the ID number of the ID card inserted into the gaming machine 1 by the player by the card unit and subtracting the valuable value stored in the server corresponding to the ID number. Value may be accepted as credit.

  The player can execute the game by operating the game start button 24 and consuming a predetermined number of credits (for example, 100 yen) corresponding to one game. When the number of remaining credits is less than a predetermined unit, the player cannot execute the game.

  Then, when the game start switch 24A detects the operation of the game start button 24 by the player, a detection signal is output. When the CPU 111 receives the detection signal output from the game start switch 24A via the I / O port 110, the CPU 111 subtracts the number of credits stored in the RAM 113 functioning as a credit number storage unit, corresponding to one game, Run the main game. The CPU 111 functions as main game control means.

  Further, the CPU 111 outputs a display control signal for instructing subtraction of the display of the balance of the credit amount displayed on the image display device 5 to the LCD control device 150.

  In the main game, as shown in FIG. 1, a first character 53 simulating a bullet of a cannon displayed on the upper right portion of the display screen on the main screen 51 is the first simulating a target displayed on the upper left portion of the display screen. A state of flying toward the second character 55 is displayed.

  In the present embodiment, as the main game, a game is executed in which whether or not the first character 53 hits the second character 55 is determined by lottery. When the first character 53 hits the second character 55, the sub game is executed on the sub screen 71.

  The CPU 111 determines whether the game is successful, points are given, or the game is unsuccessful when the player operates the game start button 24 to start execution of the main game, that is, the first character 53 of the cannon bullet. A random number for lottery that determines whether or not the target second character 55 is hit is extracted.

  Next, the CPU 111 acquires the extracted random number. Then, the CPU 111 functioning as the SPIN winning determination unit 100b compares the acquired random number value with the winning value, and the random value is a winning value at which the main game is a game success or a point grant value. The result of the main game is determined by determining whether the value is any of these values. Here, most of the random number values used in the main game lottery are constituted by winning values of the main game success, and the point grant value and the outlier value are extracted with a low probability (for example, 1/40 each). Good.

  Instead of generating internal lottery random numbers by software processing executed by the CPU 111, a random number generator for generating random numbers is provided in the main game control device 100, and lottery random numbers output from the random number generator are used. The result of the main game may be determined.

  Further, a predetermined number of points awarded to the player can be exchanged for prizes. Also, points can be used for the main game in the same way as credits.

  Based on the extracted random number result, the CPU 111 controls the execution of the main game displayed on the main screen 51.

  When the result of the main game is a game success, first, the CPU 111 functioning as the start signal output control unit 100c stores the RAM 113 functioning as the SPIN number storage unit 100f in accordance with the success of the main game (SPIN winning). The stored SPIN memory is incremented by 1 (see step S303 in FIG. 7).

  Next, the CPU 111 functioning as the start signal output control means 100c subtracts 1 from the SPIN memory stored in the RAM 113 functioning as the SPIN signal storage means 100f when outputting the start signal instructing the start of the sub game. (Refer to step S603 in FIG. 9), 1 is added to the start memory number stored in the RAM 113 functioning as the start memory number storage means 100g (see step S604 in FIG. 9).

  Thereafter, the CPU 111 functioning as the start signal output means 100d transmits a start signal from the I / O port 110 to the sub game control device 200 via the relay board 300 (see step S104 in FIG. 5 and step S605 in FIG. 9). .

  When the result of the main game is a game success, a main display control command signal for instructing an image for producing the main game for displaying an image corresponding to the game success on the image display device 5 is displayed on the LCD control device 150. Via the communication port 114.

  When the result of the main game is a game failure, a main display control command signal for instructing an image for producing the main game for displaying an image corresponding to the game failure on the image display device 5 is transmitted to the LCD control device 150. Is done.

  When the result of the main game is point grant, the main display control command signal for instructing an image for producing the main game for displaying the image corresponding to the point grant on the image display device 5 is the LCD control device 150. And points are awarded to the player.

  The image display device 5 displays an image corresponding to the result of the main game lottery based on the main display control command signal.

  When the sub game control device 200 receives the start signal transmitted from the main game control device 100, the sub game control device 200 executes the sub game.

  In the sub game, as shown in FIG. 1, an effect of the sub game executed according to the result of the main game is displayed on the sub screen 71. The sub game is a game for determining whether to give a prize to a player.

  In the display areas provided on the left, middle, and right of the variable display area 73 displayed in the sub-screen 71 at the lower center of the display screen of the image display device 5, symbols (for example, “0” to “9”) are displayed. The display of the 12 numbers of symbols by the numbers up to and the English letters “A” and “B”) is changed, and a variable display game as a sub game is performed.

  The gaming machine 1 is output from the main game control device 100 by the sub game control device 200 to be described later (specifically, when the sub game start determination is made at a predetermined timing due to the success of the main game). If the lottery result of the sub game extracted when the start signal is detected is a win value, the sub game is displayed in a predetermined symbol combination (for example, the variable display area 73 of the sub screen 71). The game is stopped in a state where three symbols are aligned, that is, a jackpot symbol), and the result of the sub game is a jackpot state.

  On the other hand, when the sub game start decision is made at a timing other than the predetermined timing (when the sub game lottery result extracted when the start signal is detected is an outlier), the sub game result is , And it stops, and stops in a mode other than a predetermined symbol combination.

  When the symbol of the sub game is stopped due to either big hit or loss, the sub game control device 200 outputs a symbol determination signal to the main game control device 200. When the CPU 111 functioning as the symbol determination signal input unit 100h detects the symbol determination signal, the CPU 111 functioning as the start signal output control unit 100c decrements the starting memory number stored in the RAM 113 functioning as the starting memory number storage unit 100g by one. Subtract (see step S404 in FIG. 8A).

  As described above, when the start signal is output, the start memory number stored in the RAM 113 functioning as the start memory number storage unit 100g is incremented by 1, and the CPU 111 functioning as the symbol determination signal input unit 100h detects the symbol determination signal. Each time, the sub game start memory number is estimated in the main game control device 100 by subtracting 1 from the start memory number stored in the RAM 113 functioning as the start memory number storage means 100g.

  Then, the sub game control device 200 outputs a special prize signal to the main game control device 100 when the result of the sub game is a big hit. When the CPU 111 functioning as the main game control means 100a detects the special prize signal, it stores the SPIN number clear command in the RAM 113 (see step S401 in FIG. 8A), and the CPU 111 functioning as the start signal output control means 100c that has acquired this command The SPIN storage stored in the RAM 113 functioning as the SPIN number storage unit 100f is cleared (see step S501 in FIG. 8B).

  In addition, on the sub screen 71, an image based on the progress of the game (for example, a big hit display which is a display for notifying that the result of the sub game is a big hit, a fanfare display or a sub game which is a display for producing a big hit of the sub game) Ending display or the like indicating that the big hit effect is finished and the next sub game is displayed is displayed.

  When the result of the sub game is a big hit state, a prize is awarded to the player. Specifically, prizes such as gift certificates stored in the prize storage are automatically paid out from the payout exit 41 by the prize dispenser 4 that has received the payout command signal from the main game control device 100.

  In the present embodiment, the gaming machine 1 is configured to automatically give out a prize based on the big hit of the sub game. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and is connected to a prize payout button (not shown) and a prize payout button. A prize payout switch (not shown) is provided in the prize payer 4, and the player waits for detection of a detection signal output from the prize payout switch to detect an operation of the prize payout button. The prize stored in the prize hangar may be paid out from the payout exit according to the acquired specific value.

  In this case, the prize dispenser 4 transmits a prize dispense signal to the main game control apparatus 100 via the I / O port 110, and the CPU 111 receives the prize dispense signal transmitted from the prize dispenser 4 in the RAM 113. A specific valuable value storage area may be provided, and the number of specific valuable values corresponding to the paid out prize may be subtracted from the specific valuable value stored in the specific valuable value storage area. Further, the CPU 111 may output a display control signal for subtracting the display of the balance of the specific value displayed on the image display device 5 to the LCD control device 150.

  In this case, the current specific value may be displayed at a predetermined position (for example, upper right) of the main screen 51. In addition to the image display device 5, a balance display unit composed of a 7-segment LED or a liquid crystal display may be provided, and the current specific value may be displayed on the balance display unit.

  FIG. 5 is a flowchart of main processing according to the first embodiment of this invention. This main process is executed by the CPU 111 provided in the main game control apparatus 100.

  When the power to the gaming machine 1 is turned on, the CPU 111 first executes an initialization process for setting initial values for various control parameters (S101).

  After that, the CPU 111 performs processing such as waveform shaping on the operation signal of the game start button 24 output from the game start switch 24A input via the I / O port 110, the bill acceptance signal from the bill acceptor 2, and the like. The input information is confirmed (S102).

  Thereafter, the CPU 111 outputs data related to the control of the gaming machine to the predetermined output destination via the I / O port 110 (S103).

  For example, the CPU 111 outputs board external information for outputting the state of the gaming machine 1 to the management computer connected via the I / O port 110. The board external information is edited by a main game process (see step S213 in FIG. 6) described later.

  The board external information includes information related to the progress state of the main game, such as whether a game is being executed by the player or whether the main game is successful.

  Thereafter, the CPU 111 performs a command transmission process for outputting a control signal described later to the LCD control device 150 and the sub game control device 200 (S104).

  Thereafter, the CPU 111 executes main game processing (S105). The main game process will be described later with reference to FIG.

  Thereafter, the CPU 111 performs error monitoring processing for monitoring abnormalities of various switches and sensors (S106).

  Thereafter, the CPU 111 performs a valuable value acceptance process for adding a valuable value for executing a game in accordance with the insertion of a bill by the player (S107). When a player inserts a banknote from the insertion slot 21 of the banknote receiving machine 2, a banknote determination device (not shown) provided in the banknote receiving machine 2 determines the authenticity and the amount of the inserted banknote. If the bill is authentic, the CPU 111 adds the number of credits stored in the RAM 113 according to the amount of the bill.

  Thereafter, when the special game signal output from the sub game control device 200 is no longer detected based on the sub game jackpot executed in the sub game process (see step 707 in FIG. 10), the CPU 111 hits the sub game jackpot. After determining that the production has ended and giving a specific prize, a prize payout process for paying out a predetermined prize (for example, a gift certificate) within the range of the awarded prize is executed (S108).

  Thereafter, the CPU 111 repeats the main process. However, the processes of S101 to S108 are not necessarily executed every time the main process is executed.

  For example, the initialization process (S101) is executed only once immediately after the power is turned on.

  Further, the input process (S102) monitors the input signal every time, but the output process (S103) may be executed every other occurrence of an interrupt. That is, instead of completing all the processes in one interrupt process, the main process may be repeatedly executed a plurality of times to complete a series of game control processes.

  FIG. 6 is a flowchart of the main game process according to the first embodiment of this invention. This main game process is executed by the CPU 111 provided in the main game control device 100.

  First, the CPU 111 determines whether or not the main game is being executed (S201). If the main game is being executed, the process proceeds to step S210. On the other hand, if the main game is not being executed, the process proceeds to step S202.

  When the main game is not being executed in step S201, the CPU 111 performs a game start operation by the player depending on whether or not a detection signal output from the game start switch 24A that detects an operation of the game start button 24 by the player is detected. It is determined whether or not (S202).

  If a game start operation has been performed, the CPU 111 advances the process to step S203. On the other hand, if the game start operation has not been performed, the CPU 111 advances the process to step S212. At this time, the gaming machine 1 enters a demonstration display state in which an image indicating that the gaming machine 1 is waiting in a state where a game start operation can be accepted is displayed.

  Thereafter, the CPU 111 determines whether or not the number of credits stored in the RAM 113 is greater than or equal to a predetermined number corresponding to one game (S203). If the credit balance is equal to or greater than a predetermined unit (for example, 100 yen) necessary for executing one game, the process proceeds to step S204. On the other hand, if the balance of the number of credits is less than the predetermined unit, the CPU 111 advances the process to step S212.

  Thereafter, the CPU 111 updates the time limit timer and determines whether or not the time limit timer has expired (S204).

  The time limit timer is provided to limit the number of games executed within a predetermined time, and is set in step S205 described later. If the time limit timer has expired, the CPU 111 advances the process to step S205. On the other hand, if the time limit timer has not expired, the CPU 111 advances the process to step S212.

  Thereby, the execution of the main game is not started until the time limit timer expires.

  For example, when the set time is set to 4 seconds, it takes 4 seconds or more from the execution of a lottery process for a main game (see step S206) to the execution of a lottery process for the next main game. Thereby, the number of executions of the main game can be limited to, for example, 15 times or less per minute.

  Therefore, an interval of a certain time or more is ensured from the start of execution of a certain main game to the start of execution of the next main game, and the number of main game executions per unit time is limited.

  Note that the limit on the number of times of execution of the main game per unit time by the time limit timer is not limited to just before the execution of the main game, but may be performed immediately after the execution of the main game or at other timing.

  If the time limit timer has expired, the CPU 111 sets the time limit timer (S205). Thereafter, a lottery process for extracting the main game random number counter value is performed (S206).

  In this lottery process, the CPU 111 extracts the value of the main game random number counter and determines the result of the main game (game success, point grant or game failure) based on the extracted random value.

  If the extracted value of the main game random number counter is a value indicating that the game is successful (winning value), the CPU 111 stores main game winning information in the RAM 113 and will be described later in the start signal output editing process in step S212. In addition, a start signal is output from the main game control device 100 to the sub game control device 200 based on the main game winning information.

  When the extracted value of the main game random number counter is a point grant value, the CPU 111 stores point grant information corresponding to a predetermined number of points (specific value) in the RAM 113. Thereby, in step S305 of FIG. 7 described later, a predetermined number of points are added to the RAM 113, and a predetermined number of points are given to the player.

  Here, the main game random number counter is a counter for generating a random number for determining the result of the main game. The gaming machine 1 includes random number counters such as a main game random number counter and random number counters for imparting randomness to effects or decorations (variable display patterns, stop symbols, etc.) when the main game is advanced. The CPU 111 always performs a process of incrementing the value of each random number counter by one.

  Explaining this process, the process executed by the CPU 111 includes several random number processes. For example, a process of extracting a random number for a lottery to derive a result mode of the main game is included. In addition, a process of extracting a random number may be included in order to give randomness to the effect or decoration when the main game is advanced based on the lottery result.

  In this way, the value of the main game random number counter is extracted based on the detection of the signal from the game start switch 24A. The value of the main game random number counter is incremented by 1 in a predetermined range (for example, between 0 and 249) at a predetermined time period (for example, 1 millisecond period), and becomes 0 again when the value exceeds 249. Return processing (random number update processing) is performed.

  Here, the value of the main game random number counter is also agitated when the random number extraction timing is agitated by the detection timing of the signal output from the game start switch 24A.

  As another example of the lottery, the counter value latched at the extraction timing from the high-speed counter by hardware or software may be used as the extracted random number. Further, instead of the high-speed counter, a pseudo random number may be generated by a multiplication congruential method or a mixed congruential method, and the generated pseudo random number may be used as an extracted random number.

  Then, the CPU 111 is executed depending on whether the random number value of the main game random number counter value extracted in the lottery process in step S206 is a winning value, a point grant value, or a deviation value. The mode of production of the main game is determined (S207).

  Specifically, the CPU 111 confirms the presence / absence of main game winning information stored in the RAM 113, and the result of the main game (game success) prepared in advance in the ROM provided in the gaming microcomputer 301 of the LCD control device 150. , An effect pattern corresponding to point grant or game failure) is selected.

  Thereafter, the CPU 111 sets a main game time timer (S208). The main game time timer is a timer for checking whether or not the time required for producing the main game has elapsed. With the main game time timer, the timing at which the main game effect ends can be known.

  Thereafter, the CPU 111 sets a main display control command signal for effect display of the main game on the image display device 5 (S209).

  Specifically, CPU 111 transmits a control signal edited corresponding to the effect pattern selected in step S207 to LCD control device 150. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S212.

  If the result of determination in step S201 is that the main game is being executed, the CPU 111 determines whether or not the main game time timer has expired (S210). If the main game time timer has not expired, the process proceeds to step S212. On the other hand, if the main game time timer has expired, the CPU 111 determines the end of the execution of the main game and executes award giving processing (see FIG. 7) (S211).

  In this awarding process, the CPU 111 gives points to the player when the point giving information is stored with reference to the RAM 113. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S212.

  In step S212, when the main game winning information is stored with reference to the RAM 113, the CPU 111 executes a start signal output editing process (see FIG. 8A) (S212), and the process proceeds to step S213. Proceed.

  In step S213, the CPU 111 executes a process of editing external information related to the main game including information such as whether a game is being executed by the player and whether the main game is successful. Thereafter, the main game process is terminated.

  FIG. 7 is a flowchart of the prize awarding process (step S211 in FIG. 6) according to the first embodiment of this invention. This awarding process is executed by the CPU 111 provided in the main game control device 100.

  First, the CPU 111 determines whether or not the lottery result of the main game is a SPIN winning (game success) in the lottery process in step S206 of FIG. 6 (S301). If the SPIN is not won, the process proceeds to step S304. On the other hand, if the SPIN is won, the CPU 111 advances the process to step S302.

  Next, the CPU 111 acquires the delay time of the output of the start signal from the delay time random number counter that generates a numerical sequence for extracting the random number of the delay time, and sets the acquired delay time in the delay time timer ( S302).

  In step S302, the start signal is delayed by a delay time generated by a random number counter. Accordingly, the timing at which the sub game control device 200 detects the start signal can be randomly changed, so that the fairness of the sub game lottery can be further increased.

  This delay time is stored in association with the stored SPIN signal, and is set when a start signal is output based on the SPIN signal. The storage associated with the delay time SPIN signal can be realized by providing a FIFO (first-in first-out) buffer as a delay time storage means. The FIFO buffer may be provided together with the SPIN number storage means.

  In addition, the detection timing of the rising edge in the start signal that determines the extraction timing of the sub game determination random number is changed according to a variable delay time whose length is randomly determined. That is, the detection timing of the rising edge in the start signal is made variable by providing a variable delay time between the start signal transmission start timing and the start signal detection trigger timing. A plurality of types of start signals having different delay times are prepared in advance, and one start signal is randomly selected from the prepared start signals (steps S212 in FIG. 6 and FIG. 9). Step S605) and output (step S103 in FIG. 5).

  Next, the CPU 111 adds 1 to the SPIN storage that stores the number of SPINs stored in the RAM 113 (S303). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S304.

  The SPIN is given to the player by the success of the main game. Based on this SPIN, a start signal which is an instruction to execute the sub game is output. The RAM 113 that stores the SPIN memory functions as a secondary game execution instructionable number storage unit.

  In step S304, the CPU 111 determines whether or not the result of the main game is point grant in the lottery process in step S206 of FIG. If the points are not awarded, the CPU 111 ends the award giving process and returns to the main game process. On the other hand, in the case of point grant, the CPU 111 adds a predetermined number of points (specific value) to the RAM 113 (S305). This gives a predetermined number of points to the player. Thereafter, the award giving process is terminated and the process returns to the main game process.

  FIG. 8A is a flowchart of the start signal output editing process (step S212 in FIG. 6) according to the first embodiment of this invention. This start signal output editing process is executed by the CPU 111 provided in the main game control apparatus 100.

  First, the CPU 111 determines whether or not a SPIN number clear command (FIG. 4) is stored in the RAM 113 (S401). If the SPIN number clear command is not stored, the process proceeds to step S403. On the other hand, if the SPIN number clear command is stored, the CPU 111 deletes the stored SPIN number clear command, and then executes the SPIN number storage clear process (see FIG. 8B) (S402). The process proceeds to S403.

  In step S403, it is determined whether or not a symbol determination signal output from the sub game control device 200 at the end of the sub game big hit effect is detected. If no symbol determination signal is detected, the process proceeds to step S405. On the other hand, when the symbol determination signal is detected, the CPU 111 subtracts 1 from the starting storage number stored in the RAM 111 (S404), and then proceeds to step S405.

  In step S405, the CPU 111 executes a start signal output determination process (see FIG. 9). Thereafter, the start signal output editing process is terminated and the process returns to the main game process.

  FIG. 8B is a flowchart of the SPIN number storage clear process 1 (step S402 in FIG. 8A) according to the first embodiment of this invention. This SPIN number storage clear process 1 is executed by the CPU 111 provided in the main game control apparatus 100.

  In the SPIN number storage clear process 1, the CPU 111 clears the SPIN number stored in the RAM 113 to 0 (S501).

  In other words, when a big hit of the sub game occurs, the current number of SPINs that have not been consumed out of the number of SPINs acquired by the player due to the success of the main game becomes zero.

  Thereafter, the SPIN number storage clear process 1 is terminated and the process returns to the start signal output editing process.

  FIG. 9 is a flowchart of the start signal output determination process 1 (step S405 in FIG. 8A) according to the first embodiment of this invention. This start signal output determination process 1 is executed by the CPU 111 provided in the main game control apparatus 100.

  First, the CPU 111 determines whether or not the number of SPINs stored in the RAM 113 is 0 or more (S601). If the SPIN number is not greater than or equal to 0, the start signal output determination process 1 is terminated and the process returns to the start signal output editing process. On the other hand, if the number of SPINs is 0 or more, the process proceeds to step S602.

  In step S602, the CPU 111 determines whether or not the start memory number stored in the RAM 113 is less than a predetermined start memory number reference value (for example, 4). If the start memory number is equal to or greater than the start memory number reference value, the start signal output determination process 1 is performed without transmitting the start signal to the sub game control device 200 in order not to increase the start memory number of the sub game control device 200. End and return to the start signal output editing process. On the other hand, if the starting memory number is less than the starting memory number reference value, the CPU 111 stores the SPIN number memory in order to transmit a start signal to the sub gaming control device 200 in order to increase the starting memory number of the sub gaming control device 200. 1 is subtracted (S603), the start memory number is incremented by 1 (S604), and a start signal is set in the RAM 113 (S605). Thereafter, the start signal output determination process 1 is terminated and the process returns to the start signal output editing process.

  Here, the RAM 113 that stores the start memory number in the main game control device 100 functions as a slave game execution instruction number estimation storage means.

  Thus, the starting memory number reference value equal to the upper limit value of the starting memory number of the sub game control device 200 is provided, the starting memory number of the sub game control device 200 is estimated, and the starting memory number is equal to or greater than the starting memory number reference value. If there is, the start signal is not output, so that it is possible to prevent the player's interest from deteriorating by preventing the player's unfair disadvantage that SPIN is wasted due to overflow of the start memory of the subgame. .

  In this embodiment, the starting memory number reference value is set equal to the upper limit value of the starting memory number of the sub game control device 200. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the starting memory number reference value of the sub game control device 200 is A value lower than the upper limit value of the start memory number (for example, when the upper limit value of the start memory number is 4, the start memory number reference value may be 3).

  In the present embodiment, the number of start memories stored in the RAM 113 is increased each time the CPU 111 detects the start signal, and the number of start memories stored in the RAM 113 is decreased every time the symbol determination signal is detected. As a result, in the main game control device 100, the start memory number in the sub game control device 200 is estimated. For this reason, when a signal detection error occurs, an error may occur in the estimation of the start memory number.

  Since it is very unlikely that this signal detection error will occur, the possibility that an error will occur in the estimated number of starting memories is very low. Therefore, it is very rare that the game is usually hindered.

  However, in order to improve the fairness of the game and improve the interest, and to prevent the occurrence of errors and increase the operation rate, in order to prevent the occurrence of an error in the estimated number of starting memories, for example, sub games Data including the current start memory number is output from the control device 200 at a predetermined timing, and the start memory number included in the data output from the sub game control device 200 is stored in the RAM 113 functioning as a start memory number estimating means. For example, the start memory number estimating means may be configured to perform storage number management that does not cause an error in the estimated start memory number.

  FIG. 10 is a flowchart of the sub-game control process for game control according to the first embodiment of this invention. This sub game control process is executed by the game microcomputer 201 provided in the sub game control device 200.

  After power is turned on to the gaming machine 1, this sub game control process is repeatedly executed at a predetermined time period (for example, every 1 millisecond). The processes in S701 to S707 are not necessarily performed every time the sub game control process is executed.

  For example, the input process (S701) monitors the input signal every time, but the output process (S702) may be executed every other execution of the sub game control process. That is, instead of completing all the processes in one execution of the sub game control process, the sub game control process may be repeatedly executed a plurality of times to complete a series of processes.

  First, the gaming microcomputer 201 performs processing such as waveform shaping on the start signal, count signal, etc. output from the main game control apparatus 100 input via the input interface 202, and determines the input information (S701). .

  Thereafter, the gaming microcomputer 201 outputs data relating to game control such as a special prize signal to a predetermined output destination (main game control device 100, management computer, etc.) via the output interface 203 (S702).

  For example, the gaming microcomputer 201 outputs board external information for outputting the state of the gaming machine 1 to the management computer connected via the external communication terminal 204. The board external information is edited in the sub game process (see S707).

  Thereafter, the gaming microcomputer 201 performs a command transmission process for outputting a control signal to be described later to the sub-display control device 250 (S703).

  After that, the gaming microcomputer 201 uses each random number counter such as a subgame random number counter for determining whether or not the subgame (variable display game) is won, and effects or decorations when the subgame is advanced (variable display pattern). And random number update processing for incrementing the value of each random number counter for imparting randomness to each other (S704).

  After that, the gaming microcomputer 201 performs an error monitoring process for monitoring whether there is no fraud, whether the sub game is being executed normally, etc. regarding the execution of the sub game (S705).

  Thereafter, the gaming microcomputer 201 detects the presence or absence of input of a start signal, a count signal, and the like output from the main game control device 100, and updates the count number of the sub game start memory according to the result. Processing is performed (S706).

  When the start signal is detected in the input determination process, when the sub game start memory is not stored up to the maximum number (for example, 4), the gaming microcomputer 201 determines that the sub game random number counter is based on the start signal. With reference to the value, one sub game random number counter value is newly added and stored as a sub game start memory, and 1 is added to the current sub game start memory number.

  On the other hand, when the sub game start memory is stored up to the maximum number, the gaming microcomputer 201 does not store the sub game random number counter value based on the start signal and does not update the sub game start memory number.

  When the count signal is detected in the input determination process, the gaming microcomputer 201 adds 1 to the count storage number that is the cumulative value of the detected number of count signals in the current big hit state based on the count signal. To do.

  Thereafter, a sub game process (S707) for controlling the progress of the sub game is executed.

  As described above, in the sub game process, when the execution result of the main game is a game success, the gaming microcomputer 201 starts the sub game based on the detection of the start signal transmitted from the main game control device 100. It is determined whether or not the sub game random number counter value (the random number related to the result of the sub game extracted and stored in step S707) stored as memory is hit, and a process of changing the display of symbols displayed on the LCD 5 is performed.

  If the sub-game random number counter value stored in the sub-game start memory is a winning value, the symbol that is changed and displayed (variably displayed) in the sub-game stops at the winning symbol, and a big hit state related to the sub-game is entered. Further, when the big hit state is reached, a special prize signal is transmitted to the main game control device 100, and a predetermined prize is given to the player. Thereafter, the sub game control process is terminated and the process returns to the main process.

  Note that the start signal is subjected to chattering removal in the input processing (S701), the input signal level is determined, the input signal level change is monitored, and if a rising edge is detected, rising edge detection information is obtained. Stored together with input signal level information. Therefore, the delay time becomes a time lag, and the rising edge is stored in the input process (S701).

  Then, in the input determination process (S706), it is determined whether or not the rising edge of the start signal is stored. If there is a rising edge stored, the start storing process is executed at this timing, and the rising edge storage is erased. Therefore, the sub game random number counter value is extracted and stored at a timing reflecting the time lag based on the delay time.

  FIG. 11 is a flowchart of start signal input determination processing according to the first embodiment of this invention. This start signal input determination process is one of the input determination processes (S706) of the sub game control process of FIG. 10, and is executed by the gaming microcomputer 201 provided in the sub game control apparatus 200.

  First, the gaming microcomputer 201 determines whether or not a start signal output from the main gaming control device 100 has been detected (S801). If no start signal is input, the start signal input determination process is terminated and the process returns to the sub game control process. On the other hand, if there is a start signal input, the process proceeds to step S802.

  In step S802, the gaming microcomputer 201 determines whether or not the start memory number stored in the RAM included in the gaming microcomputer 201 is less than a predetermined upper limit value (for example, 4). If the start memory number is equal to or greater than the upper limit value, the start memory number cannot be increased any more, so the start signal input determination process is terminated and the process returns to the sub game control process. On the other hand, if the starting memory number is less than the upper limit value, the starting memory number can be increased. Therefore, the gaming microcomputer 201 adds 1 to the starting memory number (S803), and subtracts the determination random number value. From the game random number counter, the special prize value determination random number value is extracted from the special prize value random number counter (S804), and the extracted determination random number value and special prize value determination random number value are stored in the RAM provided in the gaming microcomputer 201. (S805). Thereafter, the start signal input determination process is terminated and the process returns to the sub game control process.

  Here, the sub game random number counter is a counter for generating a random number for determining the result of the sub game. The special prize value random number counter is a counter for generating a random number for determining the value of a prize given by the big hit of the sub game (for example, the amount of a gift certificate given as a prize based on the big hit). is there. The gaming microcomputer 201 has each random number counter such as a sub game random number counter and a special prize value random number counter, and each for imparting randomness to effects or decorations (variable display patterns, stop symbols, etc.) when the sub game is advanced. A random number counter is provided. The gaming microcomputer 201 always performs a process of incrementing the value of each random number counter by one.

  The lottery for determining the sub game will be described. The processing executed by the gaming microcomputer 201 includes some random number processing. For example, a process of extracting a random number for a lottery for deriving an aspect of the result of the sub game is included. In addition, a process of extracting a random number may be included in order to impart randomness to the effect or decoration when the sub game is advanced based on the lottery result.

  As an example of these lottery processes, the value of the counter is incremented by 1 in a predetermined time period (for example, 1 millisecond period) between 0 and 249, and is returned to 0 again when the value exceeds 249. There is.

  This counter value is extracted when the gaming microcomputer 201 determines that the start signal output by the main game control device 100 is detected.

  Similar to the value of the main game random number counter, the value of the sub game random number counter is incremented by 1 within a predetermined range (for example, between 0 and 249) at a predetermined time period (for example, 1 millisecond period). When the value exceeds 249, a process of returning to 0 again (random number update process) is performed.

  However, random numbers depend on the randomness of the random number extraction timing, and if the above processing is repeated, the random number values extracted at a cycle of 250 milliseconds will be the same value, reducing the randomness. To do. The result of the sub-game lottery is required to be fairer in order to determine the result of the sub-game to which the prize is given. Therefore, updating of the counter game random number counter value is provided separately. The first random number update process is executed using the first random number counter, and the counter value of the second random number update process using the sub game random number counter is calculated based on the random number value extracted from the first random number counter. Further randomness is imparted by stirring.

  Instead of starting the update of the counter value of the sub-game random number counter of the second random number update process in the above-described example from 0 every time, the value obtained in the first random number update process is used as the counter of the second random number update process. The value is updated as the initial value of the value, and when the counter of the second random number update process makes one round and the update is completed, the new value obtained by the first random number update process is updated to the next second random number update process. Set as the initial value of the counter.

  In this way, the initial value when the counter value is changed in the second random number update process is updated one after another. Note that the random number update period in the first random number update process is different from the random number update period in the second random number update process, so the randomness of the counter described above can be increased.

  As another example of the lottery, a counter value latched at the extraction timing from a high-speed counter by hardware or software may be used as the extracted random number. Further, instead of the high-speed counter, a pseudo random number generated by a multiplication congruential method or a mixed congruential method may be used as the extracted random number.

  In the lottery process (FIG. 6) in step S206, when the result of the main game is a game success and the start signal output by the main game control device 100 is detected, the sub game start memory is up to the maximum number (for example, 4). When not stored, the gaming microcomputer 201 refers to a subgame random number counter value to be described later based on detection of the start signal, and newly sets the subgame random number counter value as a subgame start storage. Add and store, and add 1 to the current number of stored subgame starts.

  On the other hand, when the sub game start memory is stored up to the maximum number, the gaming microcomputer 201 does not store the sub game random number counter value based on the start signal and does not update the sub game start memory number.

  FIG. 12 is a flowchart of the change start condition monitoring process according to the first embodiment of this invention. This variation start condition monitoring process is one of the sub game processes (S707) of the sub game control process of FIG. 10, and is executed by the game microcomputer 201 provided in the sub game control apparatus 200.

  First, the gaming microcomputer 201 determines whether or not the sub-game variation start condition is satisfied, specifically, whether or not the previous sub-game effect display has ended. ) Is checked and determined (S901). If the change start condition is not satisfied, the change start condition monitoring process is terminated and the process returns to the sub game control process. On the other hand, if the change start condition is satisfied, the process proceeds to step S902.

  Here, the sub control game sequence is a game number of the sub game, and a specific sub game process is executed with reference to the game number. Specific game numbers correspond to various states such as a standby state, a variable display start state, a variable display in-progress state, a variable display end state, a fanfare state, an interval state, a jackpot state, and an ending state.

  Note that the determination of S901 may be made by monitoring the time-up of the sub game time timer without using the sub game control sequence.

  Here, the sub game time timer is a timer for checking whether or not the time required for the production of the sub game has passed since the production time corresponding to the production display selected at the start of the execution of the sub game is set. By the sub game time timer, the gaming microcomputer 201 can know the timing when the effect of the sub game ends.

  In step S902, the gaming microcomputer 201 determines whether or not the start memory number stored in the RAM included in the gaming microcomputer 201 is greater than zero. If the start memory number is 0 (no start memory), the sub game cannot be executed, so the variation start condition monitoring process is terminated and the process returns to the sub game control process. On the other hand, if the start memory number is larger than 0 (with start memory), the start memory is digested and the sub-game can be executed, and the process proceeds to step 903.

  In step S903, the gaming microcomputer 201 subtracts 1 from the start memory number (S903). Next, the gaming microcomputer 201 obtains the determination random number value and the prize value determination random number value stored in the RAM included in the gaming microcomputer 201 in step S805 of FIG. 11 (S904).

  Next, the gaming microcomputer 201 determines the aspect of the effect of the sub game to be executed, depending on whether the value of the sub game start storage acquired in step S904 is a jackpot value or a loss value. (S905).

  Specifically, if the lottery result of the sub game is a big hit, the gaming microcomputer 201 stores the sub game big hit information in a RAM included in the gaming microcomputer 201. Then, the gaming microcomputer 201 confirms the presence or absence of the subgame jackpot information stored in the RAM provided in the gaming microcomputer 201, and stores the subgame prepared in advance in the image ROM 257 provided in the sub display control device 250. An effect pattern of variable display of the sub game according to the result (big hit or miss) is randomly selected using a random number counter.

  Next, in step S906, the gaming microcomputer 201 sets a secondary display control command signal for effect display of the subgame on the image display device 5.

  Specifically, the gaming microcomputer 201 transmits a control signal edited corresponding to the selected effect pattern to the sub-display control device 250.

  Thereafter, the variation start condition monitoring process is terminated and the process returns to the sub game control process.

  FIG. 13 is a chart 1300 showing the relationship between the starting memory number of the sub game and the average variation time of the sub game according to the first embodiment of this invention. The sub game control device 200 determines the sub game variation display pattern based on the sub game start memory number 1301 shown in the chart 1300 so as to satisfy the average sub time variation time 1302 of the sub game to be executed.

  The starting memory number 1301 is the starting memory number of the subgame stored in the RAM provided in the gaming microcomputer 201. The average fluctuation time 1302 is an average fluctuation time of a sub game executed when the start memory numbers 1301 are the respective numbers.

  The sub-game control device 200 uses the random counter to display the sub-game variation display effect pattern so that the average variation time 1302 becomes shorter as the starting memory number 1301 increases in the effect mode determination process in step S905 of FIG. Use to select at random.

  Specifically, a plurality of effect pattern tables (for example, effect pattern table 0 to effect pattern table 4) (not shown) corresponding to the start memory number (for example, 0 to 4) are stored in the ROM included in the gaming microcomputer 201. Has been. The gaming microcomputer 201 randomly selects an effect pattern using a random number counter according to an effect pattern table corresponding to the current start memory number. Here, each effect pattern table is configured such that the expected value of the variation time of the sub game when an effect pattern is randomly selected using each effect pattern table is the average change time 1302 of the chart 1300.

  Here, the variation time of each effect pattern is a predetermined time value, but is determined as a different value for each effect pattern. Each effect pattern table stores a plurality of effect patterns and the probability that each effect pattern is selected. Each effect pattern table is an expected value of the change time when the CPU 111 selects one effect pattern from a plurality of effect patterns based on the table according to the probability that each effect pattern is selected and the change time of each effect pattern. Is set to a predetermined value.

  For example, when the starting memory number is 2, the gaming microcomputer 201 uses the effect pattern table (for example, the effect pattern table 2 (not shown)) corresponding to the case where the starting memory number is 2. Is determined at random. This effect pattern table 2 is configured such that the expected value of the variation time of the sub game is 6000 ms when the CPU 111 uses the effect pattern table 2 to determine the effect pattern using a random number counter.

  In this way, the sub-game control device 200 increases the probability that an effect pattern with a long variation time such as a reach effect that causes the player to have a big jackpot expectation will be selected when the number of starting memories is small. When the number of starting memories is large, the selection is performed with a low probability that an effect pattern with a long variation time is selected.

  As a result, when the number of starting memories of the subgame is large, the operating time of the gaming machine 1 is improved by shortening the variation time of the subgame and increasing the speed of digesting the starting memory, thereby contributing to the business results of the game hall. At the same time, the player is prevented from getting bored by digesting the staying subgame and outputting the result quickly, thereby improving the interest. In addition, when the number of subgame start memories is small, it is possible to improve the interest of the player and increase the speed of digestion of the start memory by increasing the frequency of reach production that lengthens the fluctuation time of the subgame and excites the game. By lowering the time, the time during which the sub-game is not executed is reduced to prevent the player from being bored.

  As described above, according to the first embodiment of the present invention, the estimated number of subgame start memories stored in the RAM 113 (the number of sub game execution instructions) is the start memory number reference value (for example, 4) When the number of SPINs (the number of sub-game execution instructions possible) is not 0, the execution of the secondary game is instructed. Therefore, the start memory number of the secondary game is appropriately controlled, so that the game for the secondary game is performed. Contribute to improving the interest of players and improving the operation of gaming machines at amusement stores.

(Second Embodiment)
In the second embodiment, the SPIN number storage clear process 2 shown in FIG. 14 is used instead of the SPIN signal clear process 1 shown in FIG. 8B in the first embodiment in the SPIN number storage clear process of step S402 in FIG. 8A. The point to execute is different.

  In addition, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected to the structure same as 1st Embodiment, and the description is abbreviate | omitted.

  FIG. 14 is a flowchart of the SPIN number storage clear process 2 (step S402 in FIG. 8A) according to the second embodiment of this invention. This SPIN number storage clear process 2 is executed by the CPU 111 provided in the main game control apparatus 100.

  First, the CPU 111 determines whether or not the number of SPINs stored in the RAM 113 is 0 or more (S1501). If the number of SPINs is not greater than 0, the SPIN number storage clear process 2 is terminated and the process returns to the start signal output editing process. On the other hand, if the number of SPINs is 0 or more, the process proceeds to step S1502.

  In step S1502, the CPU 111 subtracts 1 from the SPIN number storage (S1502), adds 1 to the start storage number (S1503), and sets the start signal in the RAM 113 to output it to the sub game control device 200 (S1504). However, since the upper limit value is corrected by 1 addition of the starting memory number in S1503, the upper limit value of 4 is not exceeded.

  Thereafter, the SPIN number storage clear process 2 is terminated and the process returns to the start signal output editing process.

  This process is repeated until the SPIN number becomes zero regardless of the overflow of the sub game start memory number (a start signal is set each time the process is executed), so the SPIN number is cleared relatively quickly. Can be processed in the same way.

  As described above, according to the second embodiment of the present invention, in addition to the effects of the first embodiment described above, the result of the sub game is a big hit and the SPIN number clear command is stored in the RAM 113. Since the SPIN memory is not erased and all the SPINs are consumed and the start signal is output, the start memory number of the sub game is stored to the maximum within the range of the SPIN memory and the SPIN number is cleared. . Therefore, it is possible to avoid the player having the impression that the SPIN is simply discarded.

(Third embodiment)
The third embodiment replaces the start signal output determination process 1 of FIG. 9 of the first embodiment with the start signal output determination process of FIG. 9 in the start signal output determination process of step S405 of FIG. 8A. 2 is different.

  In the present embodiment, the main game control device 100 starts based on the start memory number reference value corresponding to the number of SPINs according to the start signal output determination process 2 shown in FIG. 15 and the start memory number reference value table shown in FIG. Output a signal. The variation time of the sub game executed by the sub game control device 200 based on the detection of the start signal is determined based on the relationship with the start memory number stored as the start signal storage number shown in FIG. . Thereby, the variation time of the sub game can be increased or decreased according to the number of SPINs.

  In addition, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected to the structure same as 1st Embodiment, and the description is abbreviate | omitted.

  FIG. 15 is a flowchart of the start signal output determination process 2 (step S405 in FIG. 8A) according to the third embodiment of this invention. This start signal output determination process 2 is executed by the CPU 111 provided in the main game control apparatus 100.

  First, the CPU 111 determines whether or not the number of SPINs stored in the RAM 113 is 0 or more (S2601). If the SPIN number is less than 0, the start signal output determination process 2 is terminated and the process returns to the start signal output editing process. On the other hand, if the SPIN number is 0 or more, the CPU 111 refers to the start memory number reference value determination table 1600 (see FIG. 16) stored in the ROM 112 and acquires the start memory number reference value corresponding to the SPIN number. (S2602), the process proceeds to step S2603.

  In step S2603, the CPU 111 determines whether or not the start memory number stored in the RAM 113 is less than the start memory number reference value acquired in step S2602. If the starting memory number is equal to or greater than the starting memory number reference value, the start signal is not transmitted to the sub game control device 200 in order to suppress the digestion of SPIN and not increase the starting memory number of the sub game control device 200. The start signal output determination process 1 is terminated and the process returns to the start signal output editing process. On the other hand, if the starting memory number is less than the starting memory number reference value, the CPU 111 decrements the SPIN number memory by 1 to transmit the start signal to the sub game control device 200 in order to promote the digestion of the SPIN (S2604). The start memory number is incremented by 1 (S2605), and the start signal is set in the RAM 113 for output to the sub game control apparatus 200 (S2606). Thereafter, the start signal output determination process 1 is terminated and the process returns to the start signal output editing process.

  Here, the RAM 113 that stores the start memory number in the main game control device 100 functions as a slave game execution instruction number estimation storage means.

  FIG. 16 is an explanatory diagram of a start memory number reference value determination table 1600 showing the relationship between the SPIN number and the start memory number reference value according to the third embodiment of this invention.

  The starting memory number reference value determination table 1600 is a table for determining the starting memory number reference value based on the SPIN number, and is stored in the ROM 112 provided in the main game control device 100.

  In the starting memory number reference value determination table 1600, the SPIN number 1601 and the starting memory number reference value 1602 are stored in association with each other.

  The SPIN number 1601 is the number of SPINs currently stored in the RAM 113. The starting memory number reference value 1602 is the starting memory number acquired when the SPIN number 1601 is the respective number. In the start memory number reference value determination table 1600, the start memory number reference value is associated with the number so that the start memory number reference value increases as the number of SPINs increases.

  In step S2603 of FIG. 15, the main game control apparatus 100 determines the starting memory number reference value 1602 based on the SPIN number 1601 shown in the starting memory number reference value determination table 1600. At this time, the larger the number of SPINs, the larger the acquired starting memory number reference value.

  As a result, when the SPIN number is large, the starting memory number reference value is increased to increase the speed of digestion of the starting memory, thereby improving the operating rate of the gaming machine 1 and contributing to the business results of the game hall. By making the player know the result of the subgame that is staying fast, the player's boredom is prevented and the interest is improved. Furthermore, when the starting memory number of the sub game is small, the starting memory number reference value is decreased, and the speed of digesting the starting memory is reduced, thereby reducing the time during which the sub game is not executed and reducing the boredom of the player. Prevent it.

  As described above, according to the third embodiment of the present invention, in addition to the effects of the first embodiment described above, the start memory number reference value changes in accordance with the change in the number of SPINs. When there is a bias in the success or failure of the result, the cancellation of this bias can be promoted.

  The embodiments disclosed herein are illustrative and non-restrictive in every respect. The scope of the present invention is defined by the terms of the claims, rather than the description of the invention described above, and is intended to include any modifications within the scope and meaning equivalent to the terms of the claims.

It is a front view of the gaming machine of the first embodiment of the present invention. It is a block diagram of the control system of the gaming machine of the first embodiment of the present invention. It is a block diagram of the LCD control apparatus of the 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure explaining operation | movement of the main game control apparatus of the 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart of the main process of the 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart of the main game process of the 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart of the prize grant process of the 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart of the start signal output edit process of the 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart of the SPIN number storage clear process 1 of the first embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart of the start signal output determination process of the 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart of the sub game control processing of the 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart of the start signal output determination process 1 of the 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart of the change start condition monitoring process of the 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a graph which shows the relationship between the starting memory | storage number of 1st Embodiment of this invention, and the average fluctuation time of a subgame. It is a flowchart of the SPIN number storage clear process 2 of the 2nd Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart of the start signal output determination process 2 of the 3rd Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing of the starting memory | storage number reference value determination table which shows the relationship between the SPIN number of 3rd Embodiment of this invention, and a starting memory | storage reference value.

Explanation of symbols

1 gaming machine 5 image display device (LCD)
51 Main screen 71 Sub screen 100 Main game control device 110 I / O port 111 CPU
112 ROM
113 RAM
114 Communication port 150 LCD controller 161 CPU
162 ROM
163 RAM
164 Communication port 165 Video input circuit 166 GDP
168 VRAM
169 Video controller 200 Sub game control device 201 Game microcomputer 202 Input interface 203 Output interface 204 External communication terminal 250 Sub display control device 251 Game microcomputer 252 Input interface 253 Output interface 256 GDP
257 Image ROM

Claims (2)

In a gaming machine that accepts a valuable value that is a value capable of executing a game, executes a game while consuming the received valuable value, and grants a prize based on the result of the game,
A main game control device for controlling the progress of the game and the execution of the main game;
A secondary game control device that controls the execution of the secondary game based on the result of the primary game controlled by the primary game control device,
The main game control device
Main game control means for controlling the execution of the main game for limiting the number of times the game is executed per unit time;
Subordinate game execution instruction means for instructing the subordinate game control device to execute the subordinate game in response to the result of the main game,
The slave game control device comprises slave game control means for limiting the occurrence probability of a special game state based on the execution of the master game by controlling the execution of the slave game,
The slave game control means includes
Subordinate game execution instruction number storage means capable of storing the number of execution instructions of the subgame instructed by the subgame execution instruction means up to a predetermined number;
When the number of sub game execution instructions stored in the sub game execution instruction number storage means is large, the execution of the sub game is controlled so that the average execution time of the sub game is shortened.
The slave game execution instruction means includes
A secondary game execution instructionable number storage means for storing a secondary game execution instructionable number capable of instructing execution of a game according to the secondary game control device;
The number of sub game execution instructions stored in the sub game execution instruction number storage means is estimated, and the number of sub game execution instructions estimated is stored as a sub game execution instruction estimated number An estimation storage means,
The start memory number reference that is a predetermined value used as a reference for determining whether or not the sub game execution instruction estimated number stored in the sub game execution instruction number estimation storage means is to instruct execution of the sub game. And when the sub game execution instruction possible number stored in the sub game execution instruction possible number storage means is not 0, execution of the sub game is sent to the sub game control device. A gaming machine characterized by directing.   The slave game execution instructing means stores a plurality of start memory number reference values, and the slave game execution instructable number is in accordance with the number of slave game execution instructable numbers stored in the slave game execution instructable number storage means. 2. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein a starting memory number reference value to be compared with can be changed.

Images