JP2008036290A - Slot machine, play method executed by slot machine, management server and play method executed by management server - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a slot machine which has improved ability to pull in more customers and to which a new entertainment property can be added, a management server and a play method therefor. <P>SOLUTION: A controller provided in the slot machine executes the following processing of: permitting the input of a desired rate when a prescribed condition is satisfied when numerical data are stored in a memory; storing desired rate data indicating the input desired rate in the memory; receiving conversion rate data indicating a conversion rate from the outside; comparing the conversion rate data with the desired rate data stored in the memory and determining whether or not the desired rate has reached the conversion rate every time of receiving the conversion rate data from the outside; and converting the numerical data stored in the memory to credit data when determining that the desired rate has reached the conversion rate. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2008,JPO&INPIT

Description

The present invention relates to a slot machine for playing a game using a game medium such as a coin, a management server for managing a game in the slot machine, a playing method executed by the slot machine, and a playing method executed by the management server.

Conventionally, in a facility where a slot machine is installed, a game can be played by inserting various game media such as coins and cash into the slot machine. Each slot machine pays out a payout according to a winning state (game result) generated by the progress of the game (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

On the other hand, in order to improve the ability to attract customers, on the other hand, there is a technology that gives points according to the frequency of visiting a game facility or the number of times a game is played, and provides free meal invitations, accommodations, etc. according to these points. It is disclosed (for example, see Patent Document 2).
Conventionally, a slot machine incorporating a stock market game has been disclosed (see, for example, Patent Document 3). When the player operates the “sell” button, the slot machine provides an award of an amount obtained by multiplying the stock price at the time of pressing the button by the number of shares owned by the player.

US Pat. No. 6,960,133 International Publication No. 2004/013820 Pamphlet Australian Patent No. 784767

An object of the present invention is to provide a slot machine, a management server, and a playing method thereof that can improve the ability to attract customers and add new entertainment properties.

In order to solve the above-described problems, the present invention provides the following.
The slot machine of the present invention includes a desired rate input switch capable of inputting a desired rate indicating a conversion rate desired by the player, and a controller. The controller is capable of converting into credit data that can be used for gaming, and when numerical data that changes the conversion rate for conversion into credit data is stored in the memory, the predetermined condition is When it is satisfied, a process for allowing input of a desired rate, a process for storing desired rate data indicating the input desired rate in the memory, a process for receiving conversion rate data indicating a conversion rate from the outside, and a conversion from the outside Each time the rate data is received, it is compared with the desired rate data stored in the memory to determine whether or not the desired rate has reached the conversion rate, and it is determined that the desired rate has reached the conversion rate In such a case, processing for converting the numerical data stored in the memory into credit data is executed.

According to the slot machine of the present invention, the value can be changed using numerical data separately from the credit data whose value per unit does not change. Therefore, even in a slot machine that uses credit data whose value does not fluctuate, elements such as securities transactions can be incorporated into the game, and further entertainment can be added to the game by the slot machine.
Further, when a predetermined condition (for example, a bonus game is generated) is satisfied, the player can input a desired rate. When the conversion rate data indicating the conversion rate for converting the numerical data into the credit data reaches the desired rate, the numerical data can be converted into credit data based on the desired rate. Become. By adopting such a configuration, it becomes possible for the player to concentrate on the play without worrying about the change in the conversion rate, and the player's willingness to play can be increased, so the rate of attracting customers can be improved. It becomes.

The present invention also provides the following.
The slot machine of the present invention includes a desired rate input switch capable of inputting a desired rate indicating a conversion rate desired by a player, a game medium counter for detecting a game medium to be inserted, and a controller. The controller is capable of converting into credit data that can be used in a game, and when the numerical data whose conversion rate for conversion into credit data varies is stored in a memory, the game medium When the counter detects the insertion of a predetermined number of game media, processing for allowing input of a desired rate, processing for storing desired rate data indicating the input desired rate in the memory, and conversion rate data indicating a conversion rate A process for receiving from the outside, a process for determining whether or not the desired rate has reached the conversion rate by comparing with the desired rate data stored in the memory each time the conversion rate data is received from the outside, and the desired When it is determined that the rate has reached the conversion rate, the numerical data stored in the memory is converted to credit data. The processing to be executed.

According to the slot machine of the present invention, the value can be changed using numerical data separately from the credit data whose value per unit does not change. Therefore, even in a slot machine that uses credit data whose value does not fluctuate, elements such as securities transactions can be incorporated into the game, and further entertainment can be added to the game by the slot machine.
Further, when a predetermined condition (for example, a bonus game is generated) is satisfied, the player can input a desired rate. When the conversion rate data indicating the conversion rate for converting the numerical data into the credit data reaches the desired rate, the numerical data can be converted into credit data based on the desired rate. Become. By adopting such a configuration, it becomes possible for the player to concentrate on the play without worrying about the change in the conversion rate, and the player's willingness to play can be increased, so the rate of attracting customers can be improved. It becomes.

The present invention also provides the following.
The slot machine of the present invention includes a display for displaying a plurality of symbols, a desired rate input switch capable of inputting a desired rate indicating a conversion rate desired by the player, and a controller. The controller is capable of converting the plurality of symbols to be displayed in a scrolling manner into credit data that can be used for a process or game, and numerical data that changes the conversion rate for conversion to credit data. When the plurality of symbols that have been stopped and displayed are in a predetermined combination when stored in the memory, processing for permitting input of a desired rate, and desired rate data indicating the input desired rate are stored in the memory. Each time, the conversion rate data indicating the conversion rate is received from the outside, and every time conversion rate data is received from the outside, the desired rate is converted into the conversion rate by comparison with the desired rate data stored in the memory. When determining whether or not the desired rate has reached the conversion rate, The numerical data stored in the memory, executes a process of converting the credit data.

According to the slot machine of the present invention, the value can be changed using numerical data separately from the credit data whose value per unit does not change. Therefore, even in a slot machine that uses credit data whose value does not fluctuate, elements such as securities transactions can be incorporated into the game, and further entertainment can be added to the game by the slot machine.
Further, when a predetermined condition (for example, a bonus game is generated) is satisfied, the player can input a desired rate. When the conversion rate data indicating the conversion rate for converting the numerical data into the credit data reaches the desired rate, the numerical data can be converted into credit data based on the desired rate. Become. By adopting such a configuration, it becomes possible for the player to concentrate on the play without worrying about the change in the conversion rate, and the player's willingness to play can be increased, so the rate of attracting customers can be improved. It becomes.

The present invention also provides the following.
The management server of the present invention is connected to a plurality of slot machines via a communication line and includes a controller. The controller can be used for a game that is stored in a process of receiving desired rate data indicating a conversion rate desired by a player from each slot machine connected via the communication line, and stored in a memory. Processing to update conversion rate data indicating conversion rate for converting credit data and convertible numerical data into credit data, comparing the updated conversion rate data with the received desired rate data, A process for determining whether the desired rate has reached the conversion rate, and a process for converting the numerical data stored in the memory into credit data when it is determined that the desired rate has reached the conversion rate. Execute.

According to the slot machine of the present invention, the value can be changed using numerical data separately from the credit data whose value per unit does not change. Therefore, even in a slot machine that uses credit data whose value does not fluctuate, elements such as securities transactions can be incorporated into the game, and further entertainment can be added to the game by the slot machine.
Further, when a predetermined condition (for example, a bonus game is generated) is satisfied, the player can input a desired rate. When the conversion rate data indicating the conversion rate for converting the numerical data into the credit data reaches the desired rate, the numerical data can be converted into credit data based on the desired rate. Become. By adopting such a configuration, it becomes possible for the player to concentrate on the play without worrying about the change in the conversion rate, and the player's willingness to play can be increased, so the rate of attracting customers can be improved. It becomes.

The present invention also provides the following.
The playing method of the present invention is a playing method in which a slot machine having a desired rate input switch capable of inputting a desired rate indicating a conversion rate desired by a player executes the following processing. When a predetermined condition is satisfied when numerical data that can be converted into credit data that can be used for a game and that has a variable conversion rate for conversion into credit data is stored in the memory The input of the desired rate is allowed. Desired rate data indicating the inputted desired rate is stored in the memory. Conversion rate data indicating the conversion rate is received from the outside. Each time conversion rate data is received from the outside, it is compared with the desired rate data stored in the memory to determine whether or not the desired rate has reached the conversion rate. When it is determined that the desired rate has reached the conversion rate, the numerical data stored in the memory is converted into credit data.

According to the playing method of the present invention, the value can be changed using numerical data separately from the credit data whose value per unit does not change. Therefore, even in a slot machine that uses credit data whose value does not fluctuate, elements such as securities transactions can be incorporated into the game, and further entertainment can be added to the game by the slot machine.
Further, when a predetermined condition (for example, a bonus game is generated) is satisfied, the player can input a desired rate. When the conversion rate data indicating the conversion rate for converting the numerical data into the credit data reaches the desired rate, the numerical data can be converted into credit data based on the desired rate. Become. By adopting such a configuration, it becomes possible for the player to concentrate on the play without worrying about the change in the conversion rate, and the player's willingness to play can be increased, so the rate of attracting customers can be improved. It becomes.

The present invention also provides the following.
According to the playing method of the present invention, a slot machine having a desired rate input switch capable of inputting a desired rate indicating a conversion rate desired by the player and a game medium counter for detecting the inserted game medium performs the following processing. It is a play method to be executed. When numerical data that can be converted into credit data that can be used for a game and whose conversion rate for conversion into credit data varies is stored in the memory, the game medium counter has a predetermined number. The input of the desired rate is permitted when the insertion of the game media is detected. Desired rate data indicating the inputted desired rate is stored in the memory. Conversion rate data indicating the conversion rate is received from the outside. Each time conversion rate data is received from the outside, it is compared with the desired rate data stored in the memory to determine whether or not the desired rate has reached the conversion rate. When it is determined that the desired rate has reached the conversion rate, the numerical data stored in the memory is converted into credit data.

According to the playing method of the present invention, the value can be changed using numerical data separately from the credit data whose value per unit does not change. Therefore, even in a slot machine that uses credit data whose value does not fluctuate, elements such as securities transactions can be incorporated into the game, and further entertainment can be added to the game by the slot machine.
Further, when a predetermined condition (for example, a bonus game is generated) is satisfied, the player can input a desired rate. When the conversion rate data indicating the conversion rate for converting the numerical data into the credit data reaches the desired rate, the numerical data can be converted into credit data based on the desired rate. Become. By adopting such a configuration, it becomes possible for the player to concentrate on the play without worrying about the change in the conversion rate, and the player's willingness to play can be increased, so the rate of attracting customers can be improved. It becomes.

The present invention also provides the following.
A playing method according to the present invention is a playing method in which a slot machine having a display for displaying a plurality of symbols and a desired rate input switch capable of inputting a desired rate indicating a conversion rate desired by a player executes the following processing. It is. The plurality of symbols to be scrolled are stopped and displayed. When the numerical data that can be converted into credit data that can be used for a game and the conversion rate for conversion into credit data varies is stored in the memory, the plurality of the stop data are displayed in a stopped state. When symbols are in a predetermined combination, input of a desired rate is permitted. Desired rate data indicating the inputted desired rate is stored in the memory. Conversion rate data indicating the conversion rate is received from the outside. Each time conversion rate data is received from the outside, it is compared with the desired rate data stored in the memory to determine whether or not the desired rate has reached the conversion rate. When it is determined that the desired rate has reached the conversion rate, the numerical data stored in the memory is converted into credit data.

According to the playing method of the present invention, the value can be changed using numerical data separately from the credit data whose value per unit does not change. Therefore, even in a slot machine that uses credit data whose value does not fluctuate, elements such as securities transactions can be incorporated into the game, and further entertainment can be added to the game by the slot machine.
Further, when a predetermined condition (for example, a bonus game is generated) is satisfied, the player can input a desired rate. When the conversion rate data indicating the conversion rate for converting the numerical data into the credit data reaches the desired rate, the numerical data can be converted into credit data based on the desired rate. Become. By adopting such a configuration, it becomes possible for the player to concentrate on the play without worrying about the change in the conversion rate, and the player's willingness to play can be increased, so the rate of attracting customers can be improved. It becomes.

The present invention also provides the following.
The playing method of the present invention is a playing method in which the management server executes the following processing. Desired rate data indicating the conversion rate desired by the player is received from each slot machine connected via the communication line. The conversion rate data indicating the conversion rate for converting the credit data that can be used for the game stored in the memory and the numerical data that can be converted into credit data is updated at a predetermined timing. The updated conversion rate data is compared with the received desired rate data to determine whether or not the desired rate has reached the conversion rate. When it is determined that the desired rate has reached the conversion rate, the numerical data stored in the memory is converted into credit data.

According to the playing method of the present invention, the value can be changed using numerical data separately from the credit data whose value per unit does not change. Therefore, even in a slot machine that uses credit data whose value does not fluctuate, elements such as securities transactions can be incorporated into the game, and further entertainment can be added to the game by the slot machine.
Further, when a predetermined condition (for example, a bonus game is generated) is satisfied, the player can input a desired rate. When the conversion rate data indicating the conversion rate for converting the numerical data into the credit data reaches the desired rate, the numerical data can be converted into credit data based on the desired rate. Become. By adopting such a configuration, it becomes possible for the player to concentrate on the play without worrying about the change in the conversion rate, and the player's willingness to play can be increased, so the rate of attracting customers can be improved. It becomes.

Furthermore, the slot machine and the playing method of the present invention provide the following.
A game medium counter for detecting a game medium to be inserted is provided, and the controller executes a process for allowing an input of a desired rate when the game medium counter detects the input of a predetermined number of game media.

According to the slot machine and the playing method of the present invention, a player who has inserted a predetermined number of game media can input a desired rate. Therefore, a player who has played many games can concentrate on the play without worrying about the change in the conversion rate.

Furthermore, the slot machine and the playing method of the present invention provide the following.
The controller includes a display for displaying a plurality of symbols. Execute processing that allows input.

According to the slot machine and the playing method of the present invention, the player can input a desired rate when a plurality of symbols to be scrolled are stopped in a predetermined combination. Therefore, the player can concentrate on the play without worrying about the change in the conversion rate by stopping the plurality of symbols in a predetermined combination.

[Definition of terms]
“Credit data” refers to data that can be used in games. In the slot machine, when a coin, bill, or the like is inserted, it is converted into a predetermined amount of credit data. For example, when one coin is inserted, the data is converted into data of 1 credit, and when 2 coins are inserted, it is converted into data of 2 credits. For example, when a bill is inserted, the number of coins corresponding to the monetary value of the bill is calculated and converted to data indicating the number. Using the credit data thus converted, the player can play a game. Specifically, for example, when used for a game in a slot machine, a predetermined game can be performed by using (consuming) a predetermined amount of credits by performing a predetermined operation.
“Numerical data” refers to data that can be converted into credit data and is different from credit data.

“Conversion rate” refers to a rate at which credit data and numerical data are mutually converted. “The conversion rate fluctuates” means that the exchange ratio between credit data and numerical data fluctuates. For example, it means that the credit 10 and the numerical value 8 can be exchanged at a conversion rate at a certain time, and the credit 10 and the numerical value 7 can be exchanged at a conversion rate at a certain time.

According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a slot machine, a management server, and a playing method thereof capable of improving the ability to attract customers and adding new entertainment properties.

Embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
Hereinafter, the numerical data in the present invention is referred to as stock data, and the number indicated by the stock data is referred to as the number of shares.

FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of an image displayed on the lower image display panel when inputting a desired rate for executing automatic conversion from stock data to credit.
The lower image display panel 16 executes an image indicating “input desired rate”, an image indicating “conversion rate 1.1”, an image indicating a numeric keypad, an image indicating “decision”, and automatic conversion from stock data to credits. An image showing a text box for entering the desired rate, a text box for selecting one of "more" and "less", and a text box for entering the number of credits to exchange with stock data is displayed ing. This image is displayed after the bonus game ends.

The image indicating “input desired rate” indicates that stock data is automatically converted into credits based on the contents input when the conversion rate satisfies the condition of the desired rate. The image indicating “conversion rate 1.1” indicates that the conversion rate between credit data and stock data is currently 1.1. The player can input a numerical value in the text box by touching a predetermined portion of the touch panel 69 corresponding to the image display area indicating the numeric keypad. Further, by touching a predetermined part of the touch panel 69 corresponding to the display area of the image indicating the text box displayed as “below”, it is possible to switch the display between “more” and “less”. Then, the player can determine the numerical value input in the text box by touching a predetermined portion of the touch panel 69 corresponding to the display area of the image indicating “determination”. The touch panel 69 has a function as a desired rate input switch in the present invention. For example, as shown in FIG. 1, when the input content is confirmed in a state where “Replace 500 when the exchange rate becomes 1.0 or less” is displayed, the conversion rate value becomes 1.0 or less. At this point, the stock data value stored in the RAM 43 (see FIG. 5) included in the slot machine 10 is subtracted by 100, and the credit value increases in accordance with the conversion rate.
By adopting such a configuration, it becomes possible for the player to concentrate on the play without worrying about the change in the conversion rate, and the player's willingness to play can be increased, so the rate of attracting customers can be improved. It becomes.

In the present embodiment, the case where the desired rate can be input after the bonus game has been described has been described. However, in the present invention, the condition for enabling the input of the desired rate is not particularly limited. During the game, the symbol stop mode in the display block 28 may satisfy a predetermined condition, or the number of games or the number of inserted game media may satisfy a predetermined condition.

Next, the gaming system according to the present invention will be described.
FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing the overall configuration of the gaming system according to one embodiment of the present invention.
The gaming system 100 includes a plurality of slot machines 10 and a management server 200 connected to these slot machines 10 via a predetermined communication line 101. Such a gaming system 100 may be constructed within one gaming facility capable of performing various games such as bars and casinos, or may be constructed among a plurality of gaming facilities. Further, when the game system 100 is constructed within one game facility, the game system 100 may be constructed for each floor or section of the game facility. The communication line 101 is not particularly limited, and may be wired or wireless, and a dedicated line, an exchange line, or the like can be employed.

In the slot machine 10, when coins, bills or the like are inserted, it is stored as credit data. The player can play a game using this credit data. Further, the slot machine 10 can convert credit data and numerical data. In this embodiment, the conversion from credit data to numerical data is possible after the bonus game is finished, and the case where conversion from numerical data to credit data is always possible will be described. Conversion to numerical data may be possible at all times, and may be allowed only when a predetermined condition is satisfied. Examples of the predetermined condition include that the symbols rearranged in the game have a predetermined combination, a predetermined time, and the like. Further, as the predetermined condition, a stop switch may be provided in the slot machine 10 and a plurality of symbols that are stopped and displayed based on the operation of the stop switch may be a predetermined combination.

The management server 200 transmits conversion rate data indicating the calculated conversion rate to each slot machine 10. The timing for transmitting the conversion rate data to each slot machine 10 is not particularly limited. For example, when conversion result data is received or when conversion rate data is calculated, each slot machine is requested to transmit conversion rate data. And so on. The conversion rate calculation method will be described later in detail with reference to FIG.

When receiving the conversion rate data, the slot machine 10 stores it in the RAM 43 (see FIG. 5). In the present invention, it is preferable to display the conversion rate. The display method of the conversion rate is not particularly limited. For example, the current conversion rate may be displayed, or the transition of the conversion rate from the past to the present may be displayed in a graph. In the slot machine 10, when there is a conversion input between credit data and numerical data, and when the conversion rate satisfies the condition of the desired rate that has already been input, the credit data and stock are converted based on the conversion rate data. Conversion to data is performed.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view schematically showing a slot machine according to an embodiment of the present invention.
In the present embodiment, the slot machine 10 is a video slot machine. However, in the present invention, the slot machine is not limited to a video slot machine, and may be a so-called single game machine such as a rotary reel type slot machine or a video card game machine, and is a horse racing game, a bingo game, or a lottery. A so-called mass game machine (multi-terminal gaming machine) that plays a game that requires a predetermined time until the result is displayed may be used.

In the slot machine 10, coins, bills, or electronic valuable information corresponding to these are used as game media. However, in the present invention, the game medium is not particularly limited, and examples thereof include medals, tokens, electronic money, and tickets. The ticket is not particularly limited, and examples thereof include a ticket with a barcode as described later.

The slot machine 10 includes a cabinet 11, a top box 12 installed on the upper side of the cabinet 11, and a main door 13 provided on the front surface of the cabinet 11.

A lower image display panel 16 is provided in front of the main door 13. The lower image display panel 16 includes a transparent liquid crystal panel, and various information related to the game, effect images, and the like are displayed during the game. The lower image display panel 16 provided in the slot machine 10 of the present invention is configured by a transparent liquid crystal panel, and displays 15 display blocks 28 in 5 columns and 3 rows. Each display block 28 displays one symbol. That is, three symbols are displayed in each symbol row. The lower image display panel 16 is provided with one winning line L that horizontally crosses the five display blocks 28 displayed in the center row. The winning line L defines a combination of symbols. When the combination of symbols stopped and displayed on the winning line L is a predetermined combination, the number of coins corresponding to the combination and the number of coins inserted (BET number) is paid out. The lower image display panel 16 functions as a display in the present invention.

In the lower image display panel 16, a credit number display unit 31 and a payout number display unit 32 are set. The credit amount display unit 31 displays the number of credited coins as an image. In the payout display section 32, the number of coins paid out when the combination of symbols stopped and displayed on the winning line L is a predetermined combination is displayed as an image.

In the present invention, for example, a plurality of winning lines L that horizontally or diagonally cross 15 display blocks 28 are formed, and the number of winning lines L corresponding to the number of coins inserted is activated. When the combination of symbols stopped and displayed on the activated winning line L is a predetermined combination, the number of coins corresponding to the combination may be paid out.

Further, although not shown, a touch panel 69 is provided on the front surface of the lower image display panel 16, and the player can input various instructions by operating the touch panel 69.

Below the lower image display panel 16, a control panel 20 including a plurality of buttons 23 to 27 into which instructions relating to game progress are input by a player, a coin receiving slot 21 for receiving coins into the cabinet 11, and banknotes A discriminator 22 is provided.

The control panel 20 is provided with a spin button 23, a change button 24, a cashout button 25, a 1-BET button 26, and a maximum BET button 27. The spin button 23 is used to input an instruction to start scroll display of the 15 display blocks 28. The change button 24 is used when requesting a change of money from an attendant of the game facility. The cashout button 25 is used to input an instruction to pay out the credited coins to the coin tray 18.

The 1-BET button 26 is used to input an instruction to bet one coin among the credited coins on the game. The maximum BET button 27 is used to input an instruction for betting a maximum number of coins that can be bet on one game (50 coins in the present embodiment) among the credited coins.

In the present invention, the insertion of the game medium means that the game medium is bet on the game. For example, when a coin inserted into the coin acceptance slot 21 is directly bet on a game, the insertion of the coin into the coin acceptance slot 21 corresponds to the insertion of a game medium. However, as in the present embodiment, once a coin is inserted into the coin receiving slot 21, the credit is once credited, and when the 1-BET button 26 or the maximum BET button 27 is operated, the credited coin is bet on the game. In this case, betting a credited coin on a game is equivalent to inserting a game medium.

The banknote discriminator 22 recognizes the suitability of banknotes and accepts regular banknotes in the cabinet 11. Note that the bill validator 22 may be configured to be able to read a barcode-added ticket 39 to be described later. On the lower front surface of the main door 13, that is, below the control panel 20, a berry glass 34 on which a character of the slot machine 10 is drawn is provided.

An upper image display panel 33 is provided on the front surface of the top box 12. The upper image display panel 33 includes a liquid crystal panel and displays, for example, an image representing introduction of game contents and explanation of game rules.

The top box 12 is provided with a speaker 29. Below the upper image display panel 33, a ticket printer 35, a card reader 36, a data display 37, and a keypad 38 are provided. The ticket printer 35 prints on a ticket a bar code in which data such as the number of credits, date and time, and an identification number of the slot machine 10 is encoded, and outputs it as a ticket 39 with bar code. A player reads a ticket 39 with a barcode into another slot machine and plays a game with the slot machine, or exchanges the ticket 39 with a barcode with a bill or the like at a predetermined place in a gaming facility (for example, a cashier in a casino). You can do it.

The card reader 36 reads data from a smart card and writes data to the smart card. The smart card is a card possessed by the player, and stores, for example, data for identifying the player and data relating to a history of games played by the player. The smart card may store data corresponding to coins, bills, or credits. Further, a magnetic stripe card may be adopted instead of the smart card. The data display 37 is composed of a fluorescent display or the like and displays, for example, data read by the card reader 36 or data input by the player through the keypad 38. The keypad 38 is used for inputting instructions and data related to ticket issuance and the like.

FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing a column of symbols displayed in each display block.
As described above, the lower image display panel 16 displays 15 display blocks 28 in 5 columns and 3 rows, and each display block 28 displays one symbol.
As shown in FIG. 4, a total of 22 symbol columns consisting of code numbers “00” to “21” are scrolled in the five symbol columns of each display block 28. Each symbol column is configured by combining symbols “JACKPOT 7”, “BLUE 7”, “BELL”, “STRAWBERRY”, “PLUM”, “CHERRY”, “ORANGE”, and “APPLE”.

“JACKPOT 7”, “BLUE 7”, “BELL”, “STRAWBERRY”, “PLUM”, “CHERRY”, “ORANGE” are predetermined when five are displayed on the winning line L. A number of coins are paid out (see FIG. 11).

“APPLE” is a bonus game trigger (a symbol for shifting to a bonus game). When five “APPLE” are stopped and displayed on the winning line L, it is possible to shift to the bonus game. In this embodiment, the bonus game is a free game (a game that can be played a predetermined number of times without betting coins).

When the spin button 23 is pressed after the 1-BET button 26 or the maximum BET button 27 is pressed and the game is started, the symbols displayed on the display blocks 28 are scrolled from the upper direction to the lower direction. . Then, after a predetermined time has elapsed, the symbols are stopped and displayed. Furthermore, when various prizes (see FIG. 11) are determined in advance based on the combination of symbols, and the symbol combination corresponding to the prize stops on the winning line L, the number of coins paid out according to the prize Is added to the credits owned by the player. When a bonus game trigger is established, a bonus game is generated.

In the present embodiment, a case has been described in which symbols displayed on the display block 28 are automatically stopped and displayed after a predetermined time has elapsed since the scroll display of the symbols. For example, the slot machine 10 may be provided with a stop button, and the symbol may be stopped and displayed when the stop button is pressed.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing an internal configuration of the slot machine shown in FIG.
The gaming board 50 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 51, a ROM 55 and a boot ROM 52, a card slot 53S corresponding to the memory card 53, and an IC socket 54S corresponding to a GAL (Generic Array Logic) 54 connected to each other via an internal bus. And.

The memory card 53 includes a non-volatile memory such as a compact flash (registered trademark) and stores a game program. The game program includes a symbol determination program. The symbol determination program is a program for determining a symbol (code No. corresponding to a symbol) of each reel 14 that is stopped and displayed on the winning line L.

The card slot 53S is configured so that the memory card 53 can be inserted and removed, and is connected to the mother board 40 by an IDE bus. Therefore, by removing the memory card 53 from the card slot 53S, writing another game program in the memory card 53, and inserting the memory card 53 into the card slot 53S, the type and contents of the game played in the slot machine 10 are changed. be able to. The game program includes a program related to game progress. The game program includes image data and sound data output during the game.

The CPU 51, the ROM 55, and the boot ROM 52 connected to each other by an internal bus are connected to the motherboard 40 by a PCI bus. The PCI bus transmits signals between the motherboard 40 and the gaming board 50 and supplies power from the motherboard 40 to the gaming board 50.

The motherboard 40 is configured by using a commercially available general-purpose motherboard (printed wiring board on which basic components of a personal computer are mounted), a main CPU 41, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 42, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 43, and a communication. Interface 44. The motherboard 40 corresponds to a controller. The RAM 43 corresponds to a memory. That is, the controller of the present invention includes a memory.

The ROM 42 includes a memory device such as a flash memory, and stores a program such as a basic input / output system (BIOS) executed by the main CPU 41 and permanent data. When the BIOS is executed by the main CPU 41, initialization processing of predetermined peripheral devices is performed, and acquisition processing of the game program stored in the memory card 53 via the gaming board 50 is started. In the present invention, the ROM 42 may be rewritable or impossible.

The RAM 43 stores data and programs used when the main CPU 41 operates. The RAM 43 can store a game program.

Further, the RAM 43 stores data such as the number of credits, the number of insertions and the number of payouts in one game.

Further, a main body PCB (Printed Circuit Board) 60 and a door PCB 80, which will be described later, are connected to the mother board 40 by USB. Further, a power supply unit 45 is connected to the mother board 40.

The main body PCB 60 and the door PCB 80 are connected to devices and devices that generate input signals input to the main CPU 41 and devices and devices whose operations are controlled by control signals output from the main CPU 41. The main CPU 41 executes a predetermined arithmetic process by executing a game program stored in the RAM 43 based on an input signal input to the main CPU 41 and stores the result in the RAM 43, or for each device or apparatus. As a control process, a control signal is transmitted to each device or apparatus.

The main body PCB 60 includes a lamp 30, a hopper 66, a coin detection unit 67 as a game medium counter, a graphic board 68, a speaker 29, a touch panel 69, a bill validator 22, a ticket printer 35, a card reader 36, a key switch 38S, and a data display. A device 37 is connected. The lamp 30 is lit in a predetermined pattern based on a control signal output from the main CPU 41.

The hopper 66 is installed in the cabinet 11 and pays out a predetermined number of coins from the coin payout opening 19 to the coin tray 18 based on a control signal output from the main CPU 41. The coin detection unit 67 is provided inside the coin payout opening 19 and outputs an input signal to the main CPU 41 when it detects that a predetermined number of coins have been paid out from the coin payout opening 19. .

The graphic board 68 controls image display on the upper image display panel 33 and the lower image display panel 16 based on a control signal output from the main CPU 41. Each display block 28 of the lower image display panel 16 displays a background color determined by selection of a random number and a symbol that scrolls or stops. The credit amount display unit 31 of the lower image display panel 16 displays the credit amount stored in the RAM 43. In addition, the payout number display section 31 of the lower image display panel 16 displays the number of coins paid out.
The graphic board 68 includes a VDP (Video Display Processor) that generates image data based on a control signal output from the main CPU 41, a video RAM that temporarily stores image data generated by the VDP, and the like. Note that the image data used when generating the image data by VDP is included in the game program read from the memory card 53 and stored in the RAM 43.

The bill validator 22 recognizes whether or not a bill is appropriate and accepts a regular bill into the cabinet 11. When the bill validator 22 accepts a regular bill, it outputs an input signal to the main CPU 41 based on the amount of the bill. The main CPU 41 stores the number of credits corresponding to the amount of bills transmitted by the input signal in the RAM 43.

Based on the control signal output from the main CPU 41, the ticket printer 35 prints on the ticket a barcode in which data such as the number of credits, date and time, and identification number of the slot machine 10 stored in the RAM 43 is encoded. Output as a ticket 39 with code.
The card reader 36 reads data from the smart card and transmits it to the main CPU 41, or writes data to the smart card based on a control signal from the main CPU 41. The key switch 38S is provided on the keypad 38, and outputs a predetermined input signal to the main CPU 41 when the keypad 38 is operated by the player. The data display 37 displays data read by the card reader 36 or data input by the player via the keypad 38 based on a control signal output from the main CPU 41.

A control panel 20, a reverter 21S, a coin counter 21C, and a cold cathode tube 81 are connected to the door PCB 80. The control panel 20 includes a start switch 23S corresponding to the spin button 23, a change switch 24S corresponding to the change button 24, a CASHOUT switch 25S corresponding to the CASHOUT button 25, a 1-BET switch 26S corresponding to the 1-BET button 26, A maximum BET switch 27S corresponding to the maximum BET button 27 is provided. Each of the switches 23S to 27S outputs an input signal to the main CPU 41 when the corresponding button 23 to 27 is operated by the player.

The coin counter 21 </ b> C is provided inside the coin receiving slot 21 and identifies whether or not the coin inserted into the coin receiving slot 21 by the player is appropriate. Items other than regular coins are discharged from the coin payout exit 19. The coin counter 21 </ b> C outputs an input signal to the main CPU 41 when a regular coin is detected.

The reverter 21S operates based on a control signal output from the main CPU 41, and a coin (not shown) installed in the slot machine 10 is a coin recognized as a regular coin by the coin counter 21C. Or, it is distributed to the hopper 66. That is, when the hopper 66 is filled with coins, regular coins are distributed to the cash box by the reverter 21S. On the other hand, when the hopper 66 is not filled with coins, regular coins are distributed to the hopper 66. The cold cathode tube 81 functions as a backlight installed on the back side of the lower image display panel 16 and the upper image display panel 33, and lights up based on a control signal output from the main CPU 41.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing the internal configuration of the management server according to the embodiment of the present invention.
The management server 200 includes a CPU 201 as an arithmetic processing device, a ROM 202, a RAM 203, a communication interface 204, and a hard disk drive 205 as a memory. The communication interface 204 is connected to the communication interface 44 of each slot machine 10 via the communication line 101. The ROM 202 stores a system program for controlling the operation of the controller, permanent data, and the like. The RAM 203 temporarily stores data received from each slot machine 10 and data such as calculation results.

The CPU 201 receives operation data indicating whether or not each slot machine 10 is operating every predetermined period (10 minutes in the present embodiment), and calculates an operation rate based on the operation data. Then, a new conversion rate is calculated based on the operation rate, and is transmitted to each slot machine 10 as conversion rate data.

Next, processing performed in the slot machine 10 will be described.
The main CPU 41 reads and executes the game program to advance the game.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing a subroutine of game execution processing.
In the game execution process, first, the main CPU 41 determines whether or not a coin is bet (step S10). In this process, the main CPU 41 outputs an input signal output from the 1-BET switch 26S when the 1-BET button 26 is operated, or is output from the maximum BET switch 27S when the maximum BET button 27 is operated. It is determined whether an input signal is received. If it is determined that no coin is bet, the process returns to step S10.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S10 that a coin has been bet, the main CPU 41 performs a process of subtracting the number of credits stored in the RAM 43 in accordance with the number of coins bet (step S11). If the number of coins bet is greater than the number of credits stored in the RAM 43, the process returns to step S10 without performing the process of subtracting the number of credits stored in the RAM 43. Further, when the number of coins bet exceeds the upper limit value (50 in this embodiment) that can be bet on one game, a process of subtracting the number of credits stored in the RAM 43 is performed. Without proceeding, the process proceeds to step S12.

Next, the main CPU 41 determines whether or not the spin button 23 is turned on (step S12). In this process, the main CPU 41 determines whether or not a game start signal output from the start switch 23S is received when the spin button 23 is pressed.
If it is determined that the spin button 23 is not turned on, the process returns to step S10. When the spin button 23 is not turned on (for example, when an instruction to end the game is input without the spin button 23 being turned on), the main CPU 41 cancels the subtraction result in step S11. .

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S12 that the spin button 23 has been turned ON, the main CPU 41 performs symbol determination processing (step S13). In this symbol determination process, the main CPU 41 executes the symbol determination program stored in the RAM 43 to thereby execute the code No. when the symbol is stopped. To decide. Thereby, a combination of symbols to be stopped and displayed is determined. This process will be described in detail later with reference to FIGS. In the present embodiment, a case will be described in which one award is determined from among a plurality of types of prizes by determining a combination of symbols to be stopped and displayed. One award selected from among awards may be determined, and then a combination of symbols to be stopped and displayed may be determined based on the award.

Next, the main CPU 41 performs scroll display control processing (step S14). In this process, after the scroll display of the symbols is started, the scroll display of each display block 28 is stopped so that the combination of symbols corresponding to the prize determined in step S14 is stopped and displayed on the winning line L. It is.

Next, the main CPU 41 determines whether or not a bonus game trigger is established, that is, whether or not five “APPLE” are stopped and displayed on the winning line L (step S15). If it is determined that a bonus game trigger has been established, the main CPU 41 reads a program for playing a bonus game from the RAM 43 and executes a bonus game process (step S16). The bonus game process will be described in detail later with reference to FIG.

On the other hand, when determining that the bonus game trigger has not been established, the main CPU 41 determines whether or not a prize has been established (step S17). When determining that a prize has been established, the main CPU 41 pays out coins according to the number of coins inserted and the prize (step S18).
When storing coins, the main CPU 41 performs a process of adding the number of credits stored in the RAM 43. On the other hand, when paying out coins, the main CPU 41 sends a control signal to the hopper 66 to pay out a predetermined number of coins.

When the process of step S18 is executed, the main CPU 41 allows conversion of credit data into stock data (step S19). Next, in step S20, the main CPU 41 receives an input of the number of credits to be converted into stock data. In step S21, the CPU 41 performs conversion based on the input content.
If there is an instruction input not to convert into stock data, the process proceeds to step S22 without performing the process in step S21. Thus, in this embodiment, in order to allow the credit data to be converted into stock data in a state where more credit exists after the bonus game process, the credit data is sent to the player as stock data. It becomes possible to further promote the conversion to.

In the present embodiment, the case where the stock data value is stored in the RAM 43 provided in the slot machine 10 has been described. However, in the present invention, the stock data value may be stored in the management server.

FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of an image displayed on the lower image display panel when there is an input for converting credit data into stock data.
The lower image display panel 16 is used to input an image indicating “conversion time”, an image indicating “conversion rate 1.1”, an image indicating a numeric keypad, an image indicating “decision”, and the number of credits exchanged for stock data. An image showing the text box is displayed. This image is displayed when accepting conversion from credit to stock data in step S20. An image indicating “conversion rate 1.1” indicates that the conversion rate between credit data and stock data is currently 1.1. In the present embodiment, the image shown in FIG. 8 is displayed on the lower image display panel 16, but in the present invention, it may be displayed on the upper image display panel 33 and is separately provided in the slot machine 10. It may be displayed on the display. The player can input a numerical value in the text box by touching a predetermined portion of the touch panel 69 corresponding to the image display area indicating the numeric keypad. In addition, the player can determine the numerical value input in the text box by touching a predetermined portion of the touch panel 69 corresponding to the image display area indicating “determine”.

After completing the process of step S21, the main CPU 41 performs a desired rate input acceptance process (step S22). The desired rate input acceptance process will be described later in detail with reference to FIG.

When the process of step S18 or S22 is executed, or when it is determined in step S17 that no prize has been established (when it is determined that the game has been lost), the main CPU 41 converts the stock data into credit data. It is determined whether or not an instruction input has been made (step S23). When determining that there is an instruction input for converting stock data into credit data, the main CPU 41 refers to the conversion rate data stored in the RAM 43 and, if changed at the present time, lowers the number of credits to be acquired. Processing to display on the image display panel 16 is performed (step S24). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S25. On the other hand, if it is determined that there is no instruction input for converting stock data into credit data, this subroutine is terminated.

In step S25, the main CPU 41 determines whether or not there is an instruction input for confirming the conversion. When determining that there is an instruction input for confirming the conversion, the main CPU 41 converts the stock data into credit data (step S26). In this process, the main CPU 41 subtracts stock data stored in the RAM 43 based on the conversion rate and adds credit data stored in the RAM 43. On the other hand, when it is determined that there is no instruction input for confirming the conversion, that is, when there is an instruction input for canceling the conversion, this subroutine is terminated.

FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of an image displayed on the lower image display panel when there is an input for converting stock data into credit data.
The lower image display panel 16 has an image indicating “stock data 85 → credit 100”, an image indicating “conversion rate 0.85”, an image indicating “Do you really want to exchange?”, “YES”, “NO” An image showing is displayed. This image is displayed when there is an instruction input for converting stock data into credit data in step S23.
The image indicating “stock data 85 → credit 100” currently has 85 as stock data, and indicates that it becomes 100 if converted to credit data. An image indicating “conversion rate 0.85” indicates that the conversion rate between credit data and stock data is currently 0.85. An image indicating “Do you really want to replace?” Indicates that it is in a state of waiting for a definite input as to whether or not to convert. The player can determine whether or not to convert by touching a predetermined portion of the touch panel 69 corresponding to the image display area indicating “YES” or “NO”.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing a subroutine of symbol determination processing that is called and executed in step S13 of the subroutine shown in FIG. This processing is performed by the main CPU 41 executing the symbol determination program stored in the RAM 43.
First, the main CPU 41 executes a random number generation program included in the symbol determination program, thereby selecting a random value corresponding to each symbol string from a numerical range of 0 to 255 (step S31). In the present embodiment, a case where random numbers are generated on a program (a case where so-called software random numbers are used) will be described. However, in the present invention, a random number generator may be provided and a random number may be extracted from the random number generator (a so-called hardware random number is used).

Next, the main CPU 41 determines the code No. of each symbol string based on the five selected random numbers. (See FIG. 4) is determined (step S32). Code number of symbol string Is the code number of the symbol that is stopped and displayed on the winning line L. It corresponds to. The main CPU 41 sets the code number of each symbol column. Determine the award. For example, the code number of each symbol. When “00”, “00”, “00”, “00”, “00” are determined, the main CPU 41 has determined that the prize is “JACKPOT 7”.

Here, a prize in the present embodiment will be described.
FIG. 11 is a diagram for explaining the relationship between a plurality of types of prizes, the possibility of establishment of each prize, and the number of payouts in the present embodiment.
When five “APPLE” symbols are stopped and displayed on the winning line L and a bonus game trigger is won, a bonus game is generated. In the bonus game, a predetermined number of free games are executed based on the random number value obtained by executing the random number generation program included in the symbol determination program.
When five “JACKPOT 7” symbols are stopped and displayed on the winning line L, 30 coins are paid out per coin inserted. Similarly, if 5 symbols “BLUE 7”, “BELL”, “STRAWBERRY”, “PLUM”, “CHERRY”, “ORANGE” are stopped on the winning line L, each combination award is supported. The number of coins to be paid out.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing a bonus game process subroutine that is called and executed in step S16 of the subroutine shown in FIG. In the bonus game process, first, the main CPU 41 determines one of 10 to 25 games based on a random number value obtained by executing a random number generation program included in the symbol determination program stored in the RAM 43. (Step S60). The main CPU 41 stores the determined number of bonus games in the RAM 43 as data.

Subsequently, the main CPU 41 performs symbol determination processing (step S61) and scroll display control control processing (step S63). The process in step S61 is substantially the same as the process described using FIG. Since this process has already been described, a description thereof is omitted here.

Next, the main CPU 41 determines whether or not a bonus game trigger is established, that is, whether or not five “APPLE” are stopped and displayed on the winning line L (step S64). If it is determined that a bonus game trigger has been established, a bonus game repeat count t is newly determined (step S65), and the determined repeat count t is added to the current bonus game count T. (Step S66). As a result, if the bonus game is won during the bonus game, the remaining number of bonus games increases. Specifically, for example, when the game is first transferred to 20 bonus games, if the bonus game is won for the 17th bonus game at the 12th time, then 25 times (20-12 times + 17 times) A bonus game is held.

When the bonus game trigger is not established, the main CPU 41 determines whether or not a prize is established (step S67). When determining that a prize has been established, the main CPU 41 pays out coins according to the number of coins inserted and the prize (step S68). Since this process is the same as the process of step S19 and has already been described, the description thereof is omitted here.

When the process of step S66 or S68 is executed, or when it is determined in step S67 that no prize has been established (when it is determined that the game has been lost), the main CPU 61 stores the bonus game stored in the RAM 43. The game number T is read out, and 1 is subtracted from the read game number T. Then, the subtracted game number T is stored again in the RAM 43 (step S69).

Next, the main CPU 41 determines whether or not the number T of bonus games has reached the number determined in step S60 (step S70). Specifically, the determination is made based on whether or not the number of games T stored in the RAM 43 has become zero. If the number of games T is not zero, that is, the number of executions of the bonus game has reached the number determined in step S60. If it is determined that it is not, the process returns to step S61, and the above-described process is repeated. On the other hand, if the number of games T is 0, that is, if it is determined that the number of times determined in step S60 has been reached, this subroutine is terminated.

FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing a subroutine of desired rate input acceptance processing that is called and executed in step S22 of the subroutine shown in FIG. In the desired rate input acceptance process, first, the image shown in FIG. 1 is displayed on the lower image display panel 16, and the desired rate and exchange number input from the player are accepted (step S41). Then, the input content is stored in the RAM 43 (step S42).
After the process of step S42 is completed, this subroutine is terminated.

FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing a subroutine of stock data automatic conversion processing.
The stock data automatic conversion process is a process executed by the CPU 41 of the slot machine 10 at a predetermined timing.
First, the main CPU 41 determines whether or not the current conversion rate satisfies the condition of the desired rate stored in the RAM 43 (step S41). If the current conversion rate does not satisfy the desired rate condition, this subroutine is terminated. Even when the desired rate is not input, this subroutine is terminated in the same manner.

On the other hand, when the current conversion rate satisfies the condition of the desired rate, the main CPU 41 subtracts the stock data of the exchange number stored in the RAM 43, and increases the credit value based on the conversion rate at that time.
For example, when the desired rate is 0.8 or less and the exchange number is 200 and stored in the RAM 43, and the conversion rate value is 0.8, the main CPU 41 sets the stock data value stored in the RAM 43. Subtract 200 and increase the credit value by 250.
By adopting such a configuration, it becomes possible for the player to concentrate on the play without worrying about the change in the conversion rate, and the player's willingness to play can be increased, so the rate of attracting customers can be improved. It becomes.

FIG. 15 is a diagram for explaining the conversion rate.
The conversion rate is a rate at which credit data and numerical data are mutually converted. The value of the conversion rate is the amount of stock data that can be mutually converted with the credit data 1. For example, when the conversion rate is 1.2, the stock data 12 can be converted into the credit data 10, and the credit data 10 can be converted into the stock data 12. The conversion rate is determined by the operating rate of the plurality of slot machines 10 constituting the gaming system 100. Specifically, the value of the conversion rate is determined by the following calculation formula.
Conversion rate = (150−operation rate) ÷ 100

The management server 200 calculates an operation rate based on operation data indicating whether each slot machine 10 received from a plurality of slot machines 10 connected via a predetermined communication line 101 is operating. The management server 200 calculates a conversion rate based on the operating rate of the slot machine 10. The timing for calculating the conversion rate is not particularly limited. For example, the conversion rate may be calculated every time a predetermined period elapses.

For example, in the column of 10:00, since the operation rate calculated from the operation status of each slot machine 10 at 10:00 is 0%, the exchange rate is (150-0) ÷ 100 = 1.5. Become. In the present embodiment, a case where a conversion rate is newly set at 10:00 every day will be described, but the conversion rate of the previous day may be used as it is.

For example, in the column of 10:10, since the operation rate calculated from the operation status of each slot machine 10 at 10:10 is 10%, the exchange rate is (150−10) ÷ 100 = 1. 4. Similarly, in the column of 10:20, since the operation rate calculated from the operation status of each slot machine 10 at 10:20 is 25%, the exchange rate is (150−25) ÷ 100 = 1.25. It becomes.

The conversion rate calculated in this way is transmitted to each slot machine 10 as conversion rate data. As a result, for example, at 10:10 to 10:20, each slot machine 10 performs conversion between credit data and stock data at a conversion rate of 1.4, and at 10:20 to 10:30, In each slot machine 10, conversion between credit data and stock data is executed at a conversion rate of 1.25. In this way, the conversion rate increases as the operating rate is lower, and credit data with the same value can be converted into more stock data, while the conversion rate increases as the operating rate is higher. The stock data having the same value can be converted into more credit data. For example, at 10:20 to 10:30 where the operating rate is 25%, the credit 100 and the stock data 125 can be converted to each other, while the operating rate is 10:00 to 10%. : 10 can convert the credit 100 and the stock data 150 into each other. Therefore, the player can obtain more profits by converting the credit data into stock data in a time zone with a low operating rate and converting the stock data into credit data in a time zone with a high operating rate.

FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing conversion rate-related processing executed between the slot machine and the management server.
First, the CPU 41 of the slot machine 10 transmits operating data indicating whether or not the slot machine is operating to the management server every 10 minutes (step S90). The main CPU 41 lastly performs the game. When the elapsed time is less than 300 seconds, it is determined that the slot machine 10 is in operation, and when the elapsed time since the last game is 300 seconds or more, it is determined that the slot machine 10 is not in operation. To do.

Next, when receiving the operation data from each slot machine 10, the CPU 201 of the management server 200 calculates an operation rate based on the operation data and stores it in the hard disk drive 205 as the operation rate data (step S101).

Next, in step S103, the CPU 201 calculates a conversion rate based on the operation rate data. In the present embodiment, the operating rate is calculated every 10 minutes based on the operating rate data (see step S101), and the conversion rate is calculated using the predetermined calculation formula described above.

Next, in step S <b> 104, the CPU 201 transmits conversion rate data indicating the calculated conversion rate to each slot machine 10.

When receiving the conversion rate data, the main CPU 41 of the slot machine 10 updates and stores it in the RAM 43. As a result, when there is a conversion input (steps S21 and S26 in FIG. 7) or when the conversion rate satisfies a desired rate condition (see step S42 in FIG. 14), credit data and Exchange with stock data will be executed.

As described above, the slot machine 10 according to the present embodiment is credit data that can be used for games, and stock data (numerical values) that can be converted into credit data and whose conversion rate for conversion into credit data varies. Data), a touch panel 69 capable of inputting a desired rate indicating a conversion rate desired by the player, and a CPU 41. When the stock data (numerical data) is stored in the RAM 43, the CPU 41 allows the input of a desired rate when a predetermined condition is satisfied, and the desired rate data indicating the inputted desired rate. Is stored in the RAM 43, the conversion rate data indicating the conversion rate is received from the outside, and every time conversion rate data is received from the outside, the desired rate is compared with the desired rate data stored in the RAM 43. Processing for determining whether or not the conversion rate has been reached, and processing for converting stock data (numerical data) stored in the RAM 43 into credit data when it is determined that the desired rate has reached the conversion rate Execute.

In addition, the playing method according to the present embodiment includes credit data that can be used for games, and stock data (numerical data) that can be converted into credit data and that has a variable conversion rate for conversion into credit data. ) And a touch panel 69 capable of inputting a desired rate indicating a conversion rate desired by the player is a play method in which the following processing is executed. When stock data (numerical data) is stored in the RAM 43, the input of a desired rate is permitted when a predetermined condition is satisfied. The desired rate data indicating the inputted desired rate is stored in the RAM 43. Conversion rate data indicating the conversion rate is received from the outside. Each time conversion rate data is received from the outside, it is compared with the desired rate data stored in the RAM 43 to determine whether or not the desired rate has reached the conversion rate. When it is determined that the desired rate has reached the conversion rate, the stock data (numerical data) stored in the RAM 43 is converted into credit data.

As described above, according to the slot machine 10, the management server 200, and the playing method according to the present embodiment, the value is obtained using stock data (numerical data) separately from the credit data whose value per unit does not change. Can be varied. Therefore, even in a slot machine that uses credit data whose value does not fluctuate, elements such as securities transactions can be incorporated into the game, and further entertainment can be added to the game by the slot machine.
Also, when a bonus game occurs, the player can input a desired rate. When the conversion rate data indicating the conversion rate for converting the numerical data into the credit data reaches the desired rate, the numerical data can be converted into credit data based on the desired rate. Become. By adopting such a configuration, it becomes possible for the player to concentrate on the play without worrying about the change in the conversion rate, and the player's willingness to play can be increased, so the rate of attracting customers can be improved. It becomes.

Further, the slot machine 10 and the playing method may be as follows. A game medium counter that detects a game medium to be inserted is provided, and the main CPU 41 executes a process of allowing input of a desired rate when the game medium counter detects the input of a predetermined number of game media.

With such a slot machine 10 and a play method, a player who has inserted a predetermined number of game media can input a desired rate. Therefore, a player who has played many games can concentrate on the play without worrying about the change in the conversion rate.

Further, the slot machine 10 and the playing method may be as follows. The main CPU 41 includes a lower image display panel 16 that displays a plurality of symbols, and a start switch 23S that outputs a stop command signal for stopping and displaying the plurality of symbols to be scroll-displayed according to an operation by the player. In response to the detection of the stop command signal from the start switch 23S, the process of stopping and displaying the plurality of symbols to be scroll-displayed, and when the plurality of symbols to be stopped and displayed are a predetermined combination, A process that allows the input of the desired rate is executed.

With such a slot machine 10 and a playing method, the player can input a desired rate when a plurality of symbols to be scrolled are stopped in a predetermined combination. Therefore, the player can concentrate on the play without worrying about the change in the conversion rate by stopping the plurality of symbols in a predetermined combination.

The embodiment of the present invention has been described above, but only specific examples are illustrated, and the present invention is not particularly limited. The specific configuration of each unit and the like can be appropriately changed. The effects described in the embodiments of the present invention are only the most preferable effects resulting from the present invention, and the effects of the present invention are limited to those described in the embodiments of the present invention. is not.

Further, in the above detailed description, the characteristic portions have been mainly described so that the present invention can be understood more easily. The present invention is not limited to the embodiments described in the detailed description above, but can be applied to other embodiments, and the scope of application is various. The terms and terminology used in the present specification are used to accurately describe the present invention, and are not used to limit the interpretation of the present invention. Moreover, it would be easy for those skilled in the art to infer other configurations, systems, methods, and the like included in the concept of the present invention from the concept of the invention described in this specification. Accordingly, the description of the claims should be regarded as including an equivalent configuration without departing from the scope of the technical idea of the present invention. The purpose of the abstract is to simplify the technical contents and essence of this application by patent offices and general public institutions, and engineers belonging to this technical field who are not familiar with patents, legal terms or technical terms. It is intended to be able to make a quick judgment through a simple survey. Accordingly, the abstract is not intended to limit the scope of the invention to be evaluated by the claims. Moreover, in order to fully understand the object of the present invention and the specific effects of the present invention, it is desirable that the interpretation should be made with sufficient consideration of the literatures already disclosed.

The above detailed description includes processing executed by a computer. The above explanations and expressions are given for the purpose of enabling those skilled in the art to understand the most efficiently. In this specification, each step used to derive one result should be understood as a self-consistent process. In each step, transmission / reception, recording, and the like of electrical or magnetic signals are performed. In the processing in each step, such a signal is expressed by bits, values, symbols, characters, terms, numbers, etc., but these are used only for convenience of explanation. There is a need. In addition, the processing in each step may be described in an expression common to human behavior, but the processing described in this specification is executed by various devices in principle. Further, other configurations required for performing each step will be apparent from the above description.

It is a figure which shows an example of the image displayed on a lower image display panel. 1 is a schematic diagram showing an overall configuration of a gaming system according to an embodiment of the present invention. It is a perspective view which shows typically the slot machine which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. It is the schematic diagram which showed the row | line | column of the symbol displayed on each display block. FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing an internal configuration of the slot machine shown in FIG. 3. It is a block diagram which shows the internal structure of the management server which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the subroutine of a game execution process. It is a figure which shows an example of the image displayed on a lower image display panel. It is a figure which shows an example of the image displayed on a lower image display panel. It is a flowchart which shows the subroutine of a symbol determination process. It is a figure for demonstrating the relationship between multiple types of prize in this embodiment, establishment possibility of each prize, and the number of payout. It is a flowchart which shows the subroutine of a bonus game process. It is a flowchart which shows the subroutine of a desired rate input reception process. It is a flowchart which shows the subroutine of stock data automatic conversion processing. It is a figure for demonstrating a conversion rate. It is a flowchart which shows the conversion rate related process performed between a slot machine and a management server.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 Slot machine 11 Cabinet 12 Top box 13 Main door 16 Lower image display panel 18 Coin tray 19 Coin payout opening 20 Control panel 21 Coin receiving slot 22 Bill identifier 23 Spin button 24 Change button 25 Cash out button 26 1-BET button 27 Maximum BET Button 28 Display Block 29 Speaker 30 Lamp 31 Credit Number Display Unit 32 Payout Number Display Unit 33 Upper Image Display Panel 34 Berry Glass 35 Ticket Printer 36 Card Entrance 37 Data Display 38 Keypad 39 Barcode Ticket 40 Motherboard 41 Main CPU
42 ROM
43 RAM
44 Communication Interface 45 Power Supply Unit 50 Gaming Board 51 CPU
52 Boot ROM
53 Memory Card 54 GAL
60 Main body PCB
61 Sub CPU
66 Hopper 67 Coin detector 68 Graphic board 69 Touch panel 80 Door PCB
81 Cold Cathode Tube 100 Game System 200 Management Server

Claims (12)

A desired rate input switch capable of inputting a desired rate indicating a conversion rate desired by the player;
When a predetermined condition is satisfied when numerical data that can be converted into credit data that can be used for a game and that has a variable conversion rate for conversion into credit data is stored in the memory To allow the input of the desired rate,
Processing for storing desired rate data indicating the inputted desired rate in the memory;
Processing to receive conversion rate data indicating the conversion rate from the outside,
Each time conversion rate data is received from outside, a process for determining whether or not the desired rate has reached the conversion rate compared to the desired rate data stored in the memory; and
A slot machine comprising: a controller that executes processing for converting numerical data stored in the memory into credit data when it is determined that a desired rate has reached a conversion rate. A game media counter for detecting the game media to be inserted;
2. The slot machine according to claim 1, wherein the controller executes a process of permitting an input of a desired rate when the game medium counter detects the input of a predetermined number of game media. It has a display that displays multiple symbols,
The controller is
A process of stopping and displaying the plurality of symbols to be scroll-displayed; and
2. The slot machine according to claim 1, wherein when the plurality of symbols that are stopped and displayed are in a predetermined combination, a process that allows an input of a desired rate is executed. A desired rate input switch capable of inputting a desired rate indicating a conversion rate desired by the player;
A game media counter for detecting the game media to be inserted;
When numerical data that can be converted into credit data that can be used for a game and whose conversion rate for conversion into credit data varies is stored in the memory, the game medium counter has a predetermined number. Processing that allows the input of the desired rate when detecting the insertion of game media
Processing for storing desired rate data indicating the inputted desired rate in the memory;
Processing to receive conversion rate data indicating the conversion rate from the outside,
Each time conversion rate data is received from outside, a process for determining whether or not the desired rate has reached the conversion rate compared to the desired rate data stored in the memory; and
A slot machine comprising: a controller that executes processing for converting numerical data stored in the memory into credit data when it is determined that a desired rate has reached a conversion rate. A display that displays multiple symbols;
A desired rate input switch capable of inputting a desired rate indicating a conversion rate desired by the player;
A process for stopping and displaying the plurality of symbols to be scrolled;
When the numerical data that can be converted into credit data that can be used for a game and the conversion rate for conversion into credit data varies is stored in the memory, the plurality of the stopped data are displayed. Processing that allows the input of the desired rate when the symbols are in a predetermined combination;
Processing for storing desired rate data indicating the inputted desired rate in the memory;
Processing to receive conversion rate data indicating the conversion rate from the outside,
Each time conversion rate data is received from outside, a process for determining whether or not the desired rate has reached the conversion rate compared to the desired rate data stored in the memory; and
A slot machine comprising: a controller that executes processing for converting numerical data stored in the memory into credit data when it is determined that a desired rate has reached a conversion rate. A management server connected to a plurality of slot machines via a communication line,
A process of receiving desired rate data indicating a conversion rate desired by the player from each slot machine connected via the communication line;
A process of updating conversion rate data indicating conversion rate for converting credit data that can be used for a game and numeric data that can be converted into credit data, stored in a memory, at a predetermined timing;
A process of comparing the updated conversion rate data with the received desired rate data to determine whether the desired rate has reached the conversion rate; and
A management server comprising a controller that executes processing for converting numerical data stored in the memory into credit data when it is determined that a desired rate has reached a conversion rate. A playing method executed by a slot machine having a desired rate input switch capable of inputting a desired rate indicating a conversion rate desired by a player,
When a predetermined condition is satisfied when numerical data that can be converted into credit data that can be used for a game and that has a variable conversion rate for conversion into credit data is stored in the memory And allowing the input of the desired rate,
Storing desired rate data indicating the inputted desired rate in the memory;
Receiving conversion rate data indicating the conversion rate from the outside;
Each time receiving conversion rate data from the outside, comparing the desired rate data stored in the memory to determine whether the desired rate has reached the conversion rate; and
And a step of converting the numerical data stored in the memory into credit data when it is determined that the desired rate has reached the conversion rate. The slot machine includes a game medium counter that detects a game medium to be inserted,
8. The playing method according to claim 7, wherein in the allowing step, an input of a desired rate is permitted when the gaming medium counter detects the input of a predetermined number of gaming media. The slot machine includes a display for displaying a plurality of symbols,
Including stopping the plurality of symbols to be scroll-displayed,
8. The playing method according to claim 7, wherein in the allowing step, an input of a desired rate is allowed when the plurality of symbols that are stopped and displayed are in a predetermined combination. A desired rate input switch capable of inputting a desired rate indicating a conversion rate desired by the player;
A playing method executed by a slot machine having a game medium counter for detecting a game medium to be inserted,
When numerical data that can be converted into credit data that can be used for a game and whose conversion rate for conversion into credit data varies is stored in the memory, the game medium counter has a predetermined number. Allowing the input of the desired rate when detecting the insertion of the game media;
Storing desired rate data indicating the inputted desired rate in the memory;
Receiving conversion rate data indicating the conversion rate from the outside;
Each time receiving conversion rate data from the outside, comparing the desired rate data stored in the memory to determine whether the desired rate has reached the conversion rate; and
And a step of converting the numerical data stored in the memory into credit data when it is determined that the desired rate has reached the conversion rate. A display that displays multiple symbols;
A playing method executed by a slot machine having a desired rate input switch capable of inputting a desired rate indicating a conversion rate desired by a player,
Stopping and displaying the plurality of symbols to be scrolled;
When the numerical data that can be converted into credit data that can be used for a game and the conversion rate for conversion into credit data varies is stored in the memory, the plurality of the stopped data are displayed. Allowing the input of the desired rate when the symbols are in a predetermined combination;
Storing desired rate data indicating the inputted desired rate in the memory;
Receiving conversion rate data indicating the conversion rate from the outside;
Each time receiving conversion rate data from the outside, comparing the desired rate data stored in the memory to determine whether the desired rate has reached the conversion rate; and
And a step of converting the numerical data stored in the memory into credit data when it is determined that the desired rate has reached the conversion rate. A play method executed by the management server,
A stage for receiving a desired rate data indicating a conversion rate desired by a player from each slot machine connected via a communication line and a credit data stored in a memory that can be used for a game can be converted. Updating conversion rate data indicating a conversion rate for converting numeric data into credit data at a predetermined timing;
Comparing the updated conversion rate data with the received desired rate data to determine whether the desired rate has reached the conversion rate;
And a step of converting the numerical data stored in the memory into credit data when it is determined that the desired rate has reached the conversion rate.

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