JP2008048856A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To reduce the stress of a player by reporting the internal information of a game machine to the player when an error which interrupts a game is generated. <P>SOLUTION: In the game machine, after starting the game by a start lever 6 or the like, a plurality of symbols are variably displayed by reels 3L, 3C and 3R or the like, and an internal winning role is determined on the basis of a game state and a prescribed winning probability. In the case that the result of stopping the variable display of the patterns by stop buttons 7L, 7C and 7R or the like is a prescribed stop form, a game value is imparted. After the error which interrupts the game is sensed, the contents of the error are discriminated, and the contents of the error and the information relating to the game are reported to a player. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2008,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to, for example, a pachislot gaming device, a pachinko gaming device, and other gaming machines.

  Conventionally, this type of gaming machine is disclosed in Patent Document 1, for example. In addition to the original functions of the gaming machine, this gaming machine is provided with error detection devices and display means at a plurality of locations. The error detection device is provided at a predetermined location of the gaming machine, and if an error occurs at that location, the gaming machine administrator turns on the display means corresponding to the error detection device at that location so that the gaming machine administrator Can be immediately known and can be quickly inspected and restored.

JP 2003-159470 A

  However, the gaming machine described in Patent Document 1 provides an effect of increasing the convenience of the gaming machine administrator, and assistance for disadvantages and stress to the player due to the interruption of the game is considered. Absent. For example, in a pachislot, if an error occurs and a game is interrupted when medals are continuously paid out, the player may be very bothersome and feel stressed.

  The object of the present invention is to notify the player of the internal information of the gaming machine when an error that interrupts the game occurs in the gaming machine, thereby reducing the stress of the player due to the interruption of the game. It is to provide a gaming machine that can.

Means and effects for solving the problems

  To achieve the above object, the present invention provides a game start means for starting a game, a symbol display means for variably displaying a plurality of symbols by the start of the game, the start of the game, the game state, and a predetermined winning probability. An internal winning combination determining means for determining an internal winning combination based on the game, a game stop means for stopping the display of variation of the symbol based on the determined internal winning combination, and a variation display of the symbol by the game stopping means. Game value giving means for paying out a game value when the stopped result is a predetermined stop mode, storage means for storing information relating to the game, error detection means for detecting an error that interrupts the game, An error determination means for determining the content of the error, an error content notification means for notifying a player of the content of the error, and when the error detection means detects an error Until the error is eliminated, and a game information informing means for informing information related to the game stored in said storage means to the player.

  According to the above configuration, when an error that interrupts the game occurs, the error sensing means senses the error, the error content notifying means notifies the player of the error, and the game information notifying means relates to the game. Information is notified to the player. Thereby, the player can acquire information on the game instead of the time loss incurred when the game is interrupted, and thus the stress due to the interruption of the game may be reduced. Further, since the error content is notified by the error content notification means, the gaming machine administrator may be able to identify the cause of the error and respond quickly to the error.

  Further, the present invention is characterized in that the error is an error related to payout of the game value by the game value giving means.

  According to the above configuration, when an error relating to payout of game value occurs, the error content and information related to the game are notified. Thereby, even if the game value to be received is not paid out as a result of the game, it becomes possible to grasp information about the game, so that the dissatisfaction of the player may be resolved.

  The present invention further includes a winning probability setting means for setting the winning probability, and the information relating to the game is at least one of the winning probability, the internal winning combination, and the gaming state. And

  According to said structure, the information alert | reported to a player is at least any one among the set winning probability, internal winning combination, and gaming state. That is, the player may be able to grasp information advantageous to the game. For example, the winning probability is one of the factors that determine the internal winning combination, and determines the determination probability of the internal winning combination. Therefore, when the error occurs, the player can play the game by notifying the player of the winning probability. In some cases, it is possible to obtain information on whether or not a gaming machine is advantageous. In addition, in the case of a gaming machine in which the internal winning combination can be carried over after the next game, by notifying the player of the internal winning combination, the player can know the symbols to be stopped. It may be possible to obtain advantageous information. Further, by notifying the player of the game state when an error occurs, it may be possible to accurately recognize the game state even if the player is a beginner.

  An embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to FIGS.

  The gaming machine according to the present embodiment is a so-called “pachi-slot machine”, and the player is configured so that a specific winning mode is established based on the symbols displayed by stopping the variable display of a plurality of symbols on the winning line. The variable display can be stopped by detecting this operation. The gaming machine is a game that uses a game medium such as a card that stores information on game value given to or given to a player in addition to coins, medals, and game balls. In the description, the game medium and the game value will be described using medals.

(Mechanical configuration of the gaming machine 1)
FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an appearance of the gaming machine 1. A liquid crystal display device 5 is installed in front of the cabinet 2 forming the entire gaming machine 1. As will be described later, the liquid crystal display device 5 is configured so that a plurality of symbols of the three reels 3L, 3C, and 3R arranged on the back side of the liquid crystal display device 5 can be visually recognized, and an effect image or the like by a character or the like can be displayed. It is possible to display. In this embodiment, the case where the liquid crystal display device 5 is provided on the front surface of the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R will be described. However, in the present invention, the position where the liquid crystal display device 5 is provided is particularly limited. It is not something. The liquid crystal display device 5 will be described in detail later.

  On the back side of the liquid crystal display device 5, three reels 3L, 3C, and 3R are provided as variable display means. Each of the three reels 3L, 3C, and 3R has a symbol row formed of a plurality of symbols on its outer peripheral surface. Specifically, it consists of the symbols “Red 7”, “Blue 7”, “Lower Chile”, “Bell”, “Watermelon”, “Replay”, and “Upper Chile”. Each reel rotates at a constant speed (for example, 80 rpm). “Red 7” and “Blue 7” in the symbol sequence are set as constituting a specific winning mode. Here, the specific winning mode means a winning mode in which a bonus of BB (big bonus) or RB (regular bonus) described later is established.

  FIG. 2 is a front view showing the inside of the gaming machine 1. As shown in FIG. 2, when the front surface of the cabinet 2 is opened, a hopper 40 described later is installed in the lower center. On the left side of the hopper 40, a storage box 102 for storing a sub-control circuit 72 and the like to be described later is installed. On the front side of the storage box 102, a level setting knob 100 and a return button 101 are provided.

  As will be described later, the level setting knob 100 is electrically connected to a level setting switch 100S that can be switched in six stages. By adjusting the level setting knob 100, the probability of internal winning is set in advance. It can be changed to a value probability. The internal winning means that the CPU 31 draws a winning combination that can be established, and the winning combination that is won internally is called an internal winning combination, which will be described in detail later.

  As will be described later, the return button 101 is electrically connected to a return signal transmission switch 101S that transmits a return signal to the error notification routine. When an error that interrupts the game occurs, the game machine administrator or the like After the error is removed, the game can be returned to by pressing the return button 101.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the symbols of the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R are nine in total in the vertical direction, three symbols of the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R through the liquid crystal display device 5 from the front of the cabinet 2. The design is visible. In addition, five pay lines are set corresponding to the stop positions of the nine symbols that can be visually recognized. That is, a top line 8b, a center line 8c, and a bottom line 8d that horizontally traverse three symbols arranged in the vertical direction are provided, and a cross down line 8a and a cross up line 8e that traverse diagonally.

  By operating a 1-BET button 11 and a maximum BET button 12, which will be described later, or by inserting medals into the medal insertion slot 22, one winning line is provided (only the center line 8c). When two bets are made (the 1-BET button 11 is operated (pressed) twice or two medals are inserted), three (in addition to the center line 8c, the center line 8b, the bottom line 8d), the maximum number (this embodiment) In the case of 3 bets), 5 (3 cross-line 8a and cross-up line 8e) are activated in addition to 3 (2 bets). The winning lines 8a to 8e are related to success or failure of the winning combination. Specifically, the winning combination of the predetermined combination is established by stopping and displaying the symbols constituting the symbol combination corresponding to the predetermined combination in a predetermined position corresponding to any activated winning line. Will be. In the following description, the activated winning line may be referred to as an activated line.

  On the rear side of the left side of the liquid crystal display device 5 are a game start display lamp 25, a hit display lamp (so-called “WIN lamp”) 17, a medal insertion lamp 24, a 1-BET lamp 9a, a 2-BET lamp 9b, and a maximum BET lamp. There are provided various lamps 9c and various display units such as a payout number display unit 18, a credit display unit 19, and an accessory operation (bonus) number display unit 20. These lamps and the display unit can also be visually recognized from the front of the cabinet 2 through the liquid crystal display device 5 in the same manner as the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R.

  The 1-BET lamp 9a, the 2-BET lamp 9b, and the maximum BET lamp 9c are lit according to the number of medals (hereinafter, also referred to as BET number) bet to play one game (unit game). Note that one game ends when all reels are stopped, or when medals are paid out, when medals are paid out.

  The WIN lamp 17 is lit when a BB or RB winning is established. The medal insertion lamp 24 blinks when the medal insertion is acceptable. The game start display lamp 25 is lit when at least one of the pay lines 8a to 8e is activated.

  The payout number display unit 18 displays the number of payout medals at the time the winning is established, the credit display unit 19 displays the number of stored medals, and the bonus number display unit 20 displays the RB. The number of possible games and the number of possible RB game winnings are displayed. These display units consist of a 7-segment display.

  A pedestal portion 10 having a horizontal plane is formed below the liquid crystal display device 5. A medal slot 22 is provided on the right side of the pedestal portion 10, and a 1-BET button 11 is provided on the left side of the pedestal portion 10. And a maximum BET button 12 is provided. The 1-BET button 11 makes one of the credited medals bet on the game by one pressing operation, and two of the credited medals by two pressing operations. The number of bets on the game. The maximum BET button 12 sets the maximum number of bets that can be bet on one game (three in this embodiment) to be bet on the game. By operating the BET buttons 11 and 12, the above-described pay lines 8a to 8e are activated.

  A stored medal settlement button 14 (hereinafter referred to as a C / P button 14) is provided on the left side of the front portion of the pedestal unit 10 to switch credit / payout of medals acquired by the player by a push operation. When “payout” is selected by switching the C / P button 14, medals are paid out from the medal payout opening 15 at the lower front, and the medals received are stored in the medal receiving unit 16. On the other hand, when “credit” is selected, the number of medals is stored as credits in a memory (for example, a RAM 33 described later) provided in the gaming machine 1.

  A start lever 6 for rotating the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R by a player's operation is attached to the right side of the C / P button 14 so as to be rotatable within a predetermined angular range. Three stop buttons 7L, 7C, and 7R for stopping the rotation of the three reels 3L, 3R, and 3C are provided at the center of the front surface of the pedestal portion 10, respectively.

  Speakers 21L and 21R are provided on the left and right above the cabinet 2, and a payout table panel 23 is provided between the two speakers 21L and 21R to display a combination of winning symbols and the number of medals. ing. In addition, an LED lamp 29 is provided above the speakers 21L and 21R and the payout table panel 23, and blinks or the like in accordance with an effect corresponding to the gaming state.

(Liquid crystal display device 5)
As shown in FIG. 4, the liquid crystal display device 5 includes a front panel 51 including a protective glass 52 and a display plate 53, a transparent liquid crystal panel 54, a light guide plate 55, a reflection film 56, and fluorescent lamps 57 a and 57 b which are so-called white light sources. 58a, 58b, lamp holders 59a to 59h, and a table carrier package (TCP) on which an IC for driving the transparent liquid crystal panel is mounted. The TCP is a flexible substrate (not shown) connected to a terminal portion of the transparent liquid crystal panel 54. Etc.). As described above, the liquid crystal display device 5 is provided in front of the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R. Further, the reels 3L, 3C, 3R and the liquid crystal display device 5 are provided with a predetermined interval.

  The protective glass 52 and the display board 53 are comprised with the transparent member. On the display board 53, a pattern or the like is formed at a position corresponding to the above-described BET lamps 9a to 9c. That is, the area where the pattern or the like of the display board 53 is formed is the pattern formation area 51b of the front panel 51, and the area where the pattern or the like of the display board 53 is not formed is the display window 51a of the front panel 51. (See FIG. 3). The entire surface of the front panel 51 may be used as the display window 51a without forming the pattern forming region 51b on the front panel 51. In this case, a pattern is not formed on the display board 53 or the display board 53 may be omitted. Note that various lamps arranged on the back side of the display plate 53, electric circuits for operating various display units, and the like are not shown.

  The transparent liquid crystal panel 54 is formed by sealing liquid crystal in a gap between a transparent substrate such as a glass plate on which a thin film transistor layer is formed and a transparent substrate facing the transparent substrate. The display mode of the transparent liquid crystal panel 54 is set to normally white. The normally white is a configuration in which white display is performed (light transmitted to the display surface side is visible from the outside) in a state where the liquid crystal is not driven. By adopting a normally white transparent liquid crystal panel 54, even if there is a situation where the liquid crystal cannot be driven, the identification information such as symbols displayed on the reels 3L, 3C, 3R The variable display and the stop display can be visually recognized, and the game can be continued. That is, even when such a situation occurs, it is possible to play a game centering on the variable display mode and stop display mode of the identification information (for example, symbols) displayed on the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R.

  The light guide plate 55 is used to guide the light from the fluorescent lamps 57a and 57b to the transparent liquid crystal panel 54 (illuminate the transparent liquid crystal panel 54), and is provided on the back side of the transparent liquid crystal panel 54. It is composed of a transparent member (having a light guiding function) such as an acrylic resin having a thickness.

  The reflective film 56 is, for example, a white polyester film or an aluminum thin film formed with a silver vapor deposition film, and reflects the light introduced into the light guide plate 55 toward the front side of the light guide plate 55. The reflective film 56 includes a reflective area 56A and a non-reflective area (transmissive area) 56B.

  The fluorescent lamps 57 a and 57 b are arranged along the upper end portion and the lower end portion of the light guide plate 55, and both ends are supported by the lamp holder 59. The light emitted from the fluorescent lamps 57 a and 57 b is reflected by the reflection area 56 </ b> A of the reflection film 56 to illuminate the transparent liquid crystal panel 54.

  The fluorescent lamps 58a and 58b are disposed toward the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R at an upper position and a lower position on the back side of the reflection film 56, respectively. The light coming out of the fluorescent lamps 58a and 58b, reflected by the surfaces of the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R and incident on the non-reflective area 56B illuminates the transparent liquid crystal panel 54.

  As described above, in the liquid crystal display device 5, the light irradiated from the fluorescent lamps 57a and 57b and reflected by the reflection area 56A of the reflective film 56 and the light irradiated from the fluorescent lamps 58a and 58b, the surface of the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R. The light reflected and incident on the non-reflective region 56B illuminates the transparent liquid crystal panel 54. Therefore, the region of the liquid crystal display device 5 corresponding to the non-reflective region 56B of the reflective film 56 is a region that switches to a transparent / non-transparent state depending on whether or not the liquid crystal is driven. The reflective region 56A of the reflective film 56 The region of the liquid crystal display device corresponding to is in a non-transparent state regardless of whether or not the liquid crystal is driven.

  In the gaming machine 1, only a part of the area of the liquid crystal display device 5 is an area that switches to a transparent / non-transparent state. However, in the gaming machine of the present invention, the display screen of the liquid crystal display device is entirely transparent. / A region that switches to a non-transparent state may be used. In this case, in the gaming machine 1, when the entire area of the liquid crystal display device 5 is an area that switches to the transmissive state or the non-transmissive state, the reflective film 56 may be all the non-reflective area 56 </ b> B or the reflective film 56 may be omitted. .

  The liquid crystal display device 5 configured as described above will be described in detail later. When an error that interrupts the game occurs, a message indicating the content of the error and a gaming machine that is advantageous to the player A message indicating the internal information of 1 is displayed.

(Electric configuration of gaming machine 1: main control circuit 71)
As shown in FIG. 5, the operation of the gaming machine 1 is controlled by a main control circuit 71 provided on the main board and a sub control circuit 72 provided on the sub board. The main control circuit 71 includes a microcomputer 30 disposed on a circuit board as a main component, and is added with a circuit for random number sampling. The microcomputer 30 includes a CPU 31 that performs a control operation according to a preset program, and a ROM 32 and a RAM 33 that are main board side storage means.

  Connected to the CPU 31 are a clock pulse generation circuit 34 and a frequency divider 35 for generating a reference clock pulse, and a random number generator 36 and a sampling circuit 37 for generating a random number to be sampled. The random number generator 36 generates random numbers belonging to a certain numerical range. The sampling circuit 37 samples one random number at an appropriate timing after the start lever 6 is operated. The CPU 31 determines an internal winning combination based on the random numbers sampled by the random number generator 36 and the sampling circuit 37 and the probability lottery table stored in the ROM 32.

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

  The main actuators whose operation is controlled by the control signal from the microcomputer 30 include various lamps (BET lamps 9a, 9b, 9c, WIN lamp 17, medal insertion lamp 24, game start display lamp 25), The above-mentioned hopper (drive for payout) which stores a display unit (payout number display unit 18, credit display unit 19, bonus number display unit 20) and medal and pays out a predetermined number of medals according to a command from the hopper drive circuit 41. 40) and stepping motors 49L, 49C, and 49R that rotationally drive the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R.

  Furthermore, a motor drive circuit 39 that drives and controls the stepping motors 49L, 49C, and 49R, a hopper drive circuit 41 that drives and controls the hopper 40, a lamp drive circuit 45 that drives and controls various lamps, and a display unit that drives and controls various display units A drive circuit 48 is connected to the output unit of the CPU 31 via the I / O port 38. Each of these drive circuits receives a control signal such as a drive command output from the CPU 31, and controls the operation of each actuator.

  The main control circuit 71 is connected to input signal generating means for generating an input signal necessary for generating a control command. Main input signal generating means include a start switch 6S, 1-BET switch 11S, maximum BET switch 12S, C / P switch 14S, level setting switch 100S, return signal transmission switch 101S, reel stop signal circuit 46, reel position detection. There are a circuit 47 and a payout completion signal circuit 44. These are also connected to the CPU 31 via the I / O port 38.

  The start switch 6S detects the operation of the start lever 6. The reel stop signal circuit 46 generates a stop signal in accordance with the operation of each stop button 7L, 7C, 7R. The reel position detection circuit 47 receives the pulse signal from the reel rotation sensor and supplies a signal for detecting the position of each reel 3L, 3C, 3R to the CPU 31. The payout completion signal circuit 44 generates a signal for detecting completion of the medal payout when the count value of the medal detection unit 40S (the number of medals paid out from the hopper 40) reaches the designated number data.

  The level setting switch 100S detects an operation of the level setting knob 100. The level setting switch 100S can be switched in six steps (1 to 6), and by adjusting the level setting knob 100, the probability of internal winning can be changed to the probability of a predetermined set value. ing. By adjusting the level setting knob 100, a setting value table to be described later is updated.

  The return signal transmission switch 101 </ b> S detects an operation of the return button 101. When an error that interrupts the game occurs, after the error is removed by the gaming machine administrator or the like, the return signal transmission switch 101S sends a return signal to an error notification routine described later by pressing the return button 101. The game will be resumed.

  Various information is temporarily stored in the RAM 33 of the main control circuit 71. For example, the game state being executed, the number of inserted medals, and the like are stored. On the other hand, the ROM 32 of the main control circuit 71 determines the reel stop mode according to the operation of the probability lottery table and stop button used for determination of random number sampling performed every time the start lever 6 is operated (start operation). Various data tables such as a stop table group for the purpose, various control commands (commands) to be transmitted to the sub-control circuit 72, and the like are stored.

(Electric configuration of the gaming machine 1: sub-control circuit 72)
The main control circuit 71 is connected to the sub control circuit 72 so that commands and information can be output in one direction. As shown in FIG. 6, the sub control circuit 72 controls the display of the liquid crystal display device 5 based on the control command (command) from the main control circuit 71, the sound from the speakers 21 </ b> L and 21 </ b> R, and the light from the LED lamp 29. Perform output control. The sub-control circuit 72 is configured on a sub-board different from the main board constituting the main control circuit 71, and includes a microcomputer (hereinafter referred to as “sub-microcomputer”) 73 as a main component, and the liquid crystal display device 5. An image control circuit 81 as display control means, a sound source IC 78 for controlling sound output from the speakers 21L and 21R, a power amplifier 79 as an amplifier, and an LED drive circuit 77 for driving the LED lamp 29 are provided.

  The sub microcomputer 73 includes a sub CPU 74 that performs a control operation in accordance with a control command transmitted from the main control circuit 71, a program ROM 75 serving as a sub board-side storage unit, and a work RAM 76. The sub control circuit 72 does not include a clock pulse generation circuit, a frequency divider, a random number generator, and a sampling circuit, but is configured to execute random number sampling on the operation program of the sub CPU 74. The program ROM 75 stores a control program such as an error notification routine shown in FIG. 13 described later executed by the sub CPU 74, an error message table shown in FIG. 7 described later, an internal information table shown in FIG. 9 described later, and the like. The work RAM 76 is configured as a temporary storage means when the sub CPU 74 executes the control program, and stores a carryover combination storage table shown in FIG. 8 described later, a set value table shown in FIG. 10 described later, and the like.

  The image control circuit 81 includes an image control IC 82, an image control work RAM 83, an image ROM 86, and a video RAM 87. The image control IC 82 determines the display contents on the liquid crystal display device 5 according to the image control program based on the parameters set by the sub microcomputer 73. The image control work RAM 83 is configured as temporary storage means (buffer) when the image control program is executed by the image control IC 82. The image ROM 86 stores dot data for forming an image. The video RAM 87 is configured as a temporary storage unit when the image control IC 82 forms an image. The LED drive circuit 77 controls the LED lamp 29 based on a control command from the sub CPU 74. The sound source IC 78 can control the power amplifier 79 and adjust the volume of the speakers 21L and 21R.

(Game state)
The gaming machine 1 configured as described above causes three types of game states to appear: “general game state”, “RB game state”, and “BB general game state”. Each of these “three types” of game states basically includes the types of roles that may be won internally, the probability of winning internally in replays, the types of bonuses that can be established and the internal winnings. It is distinguished by the relationship with winning a prize.

  The “general gaming state” basically means a gaming state in which an expected value of a so-called “participation rate” (a valuable value given to a player with respect to a unit valuable value bet on a game) is smaller than “1”. This is a gaming state that is most disadvantageous for the player as compared to other gaming states.

  The “BB general gaming state” is generated when the BB is won internally and the BB is won in the “general gaming state”. The BB winning is established by arranging “red 7-red 7-red 7” or “blue 7-blue 7-blue 7” along the active line in the “general gaming state”. The “BB general gaming state” ends when 30 small-games or 3 RBs (regular bonus) are consumed. The “BB general gaming state” may be ended when the payout of a predetermined number of medals is completed.

  The “RB gaming state” has a higher expected value of the payout rate than the “general gaming state”, and is the most advantageous gaming state for the player as compared to other gaming states. The “RB gaming state” is generated when an RB (regular bonus) is won in the “general gaming state” or the “BB general gaming state”. The RB winning is established by arranging “red 7-red 7-blue 7” along the active line in the general gaming state or the BB general gaming state. The establishment of RB winning in the “BB general gaming state” is generally referred to as “JACIN”, and the subsequent game is referred to as “JAC game”. The transition between the game states is performed when a combination of bonus symbols is displayed on the winning line.

(Pattern combination and number of payouts)
Next, a description will be given of the relationship between the gaming state, the symbol combination indicating the winning and the number of medals paid out. In the general gaming state, “BB”, “RB”, “Replay”, “Watermelon Minor”, “Bell Minor”, “Upper Chile Minor” and “Lower Chile Minor” There is a possibility of winning a prize. “BB” is established by arranging “red 7-red 7-red 7” or “blue 7-blue 7-blue 7” along the effective line. “RB” is established by arranging “red 7-red 7-blue 7” along the active line. The payout number of these medals is “0”. Further, “replay” is established by arranging “Replay-Replay-Replay”. When a re-game winning is established, the same number of medals as the number of inserted medals are automatically inserted, so that the player can play the next game without consuming the medals. In the case of watermelon, bell, upper chile and lower chile, six, ten, six and six medals are paid out, respectively.

  In the BB general gaming state, there is a possibility of winning “RB”, “Watermelon Minor”, “Bell Minor”, “Upper Chile Minor” and “Lower Chile Minor”. In the RB gaming state, there is a possibility of winning a small role of “re-game”, “watermelon”, “bell”, and “upper / lower chile”. In the case of watermelons, bells, and upper and lower chiles, six, ten, and six medals are paid out, respectively.

(Error message table)
Next, the error message table will be described with reference to FIG. The error message table is selected in an error notification routine described later every time an error that interrupts the game occurs.

  The error message table has an error type column and an error message column. The error type column stores an error type that interrupts the game. The error message column stores an error message corresponding to the error number stored in the error type column. For example, if the error is “medal jammed at the payout exit”, an error message “The medal is stuck at the payout exit. Sorry to trouble you. It is selected and displayed on the liquid crystal display device 5.

(Carry-over combination table)
Next, the carryover combination storage table will be described with reference to FIG. The carryover combination storage table is updated in a game state transition processing routine described later every time RB or BB is internally won.

  The carryover combination storage table has a carryover combination column and a flag column. The carryover combination field stores “RB” and “BB” in which the internal winning combination is a carryover combination. The flag column stores a flag corresponding to the carryover combination stored in the carryover combination column. For example, when “BB” is won internally, the flag column corresponding to “BB” is updated to “1”.

(Internal information table)
Next, the internal information table will be described with reference to FIG. The internal information table is selected in an error notification routine described later every time an error that interrupts the game occurs.

  The internal information table has a carryover state column and an internal information message column. In the carryover state column, “None” in a state where there is no carryover combination and “RB” and “BB” which are carryover combinations are stored. The internal information message column stores an internal information message corresponding to the carryover state stored in the carryover state column. For example, if a “medal jam at the payout” error occurs, and the error notification routine described below is “BB” for the carryover role, “Thank you for your inconvenience. You can get into the big bonus by aligning 777. The setting level of this slot machine is 4 "is selected and displayed on the LCD 5.

(Setting value table)
Next, the setting value table will be described with reference to FIG. The set value table is updated every time the set value is changed by the level setting knob 101.

  The set value table has a set value column. In the setting value column, the setting level (1 to 6) adjusted by the level setting knob 101 is stored. For example, when an error that interrupts a game occurs, a setting value is acquired in an error notification processing routine that will be described later, and is used when composing an internal information notification message.

(Operation of the main control circuit 71)
With the above configuration, the control operation of the CPU 31 of the main control circuit 71 will be described with reference to the flowchart of the main routine shown in FIG.

  First, the CPU 31 performs initialization at the start of the game (A1). Specifically, initialization of the storage contents of the RAM 33, initialization of communication data, and the like are performed. Subsequently, the predetermined stored contents of the RAM 33 at the end of the game are erased (A2). Specifically, the data in the writable area of the RAM 33 used for the previous game is erased, the parameters necessary for the next game are written in the write area of the RAM 33, the start address of the sequence program for the next game, etc. I do. Next, the CPU 31 stands by until there is an input from the inserted medal sensor 22S or the BET switches 11S and 12S (A3). Thereafter, a medal insertion signal is transmitted to the sub-control circuit 72, and it is determined whether or not the start switch 6S is turned on by operating the start lever 6 (A4).

  When the start switch 6S is not turned on (A4: NO), the process waits for input by repeating A4. When the start switch 6S is turned on (A4: YES), the game start signal is sub-controlled. Along with transmitting to the circuit 72, a random number for lottery is extracted (A5). And the game state in this game is confirmed by performing a game state monitoring process (A6). That is, the game state of the current game is set to any one of the BB general game state, the RB game state, and the general game state.

  Then, a probability lottery process is performed (A7), and an internal winning combination is determined. Subsequently, stop table group selection processing is executed (A8). Specifically, a specific stop table group is selected using the type of internal winning combination. The stop table group is used when the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R are stopped in A10 later. Here, a game information signal including information related to the internal winning combination, gaming state, stop table group, and symbol corresponding to the internal winning combination is transmitted to the sub-control circuit 72. Subsequently, a reel rotation process is performed (A9). Specifically, the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R are rotated, and when a predetermined speed (for example, constant speed rotation) is reached, a reel stop permission signal is transmitted to the sub-control circuit 72. The reel stop permission signal includes a detection signal that is detected when the symbol corresponding to the internal winning combination is positioned on the effective line (specifically, the center line 8c) after the predetermined speed is reached. included.

  Next, a reel rotation stop process is executed (A10). That is, the sliding frame number determination process for determining the number of sliding frames is performed at the timing when any one of the stop buttons 7L, 7C, and 7R is operated or when the value of the automatic stop timer becomes “0”. Specifically, the number of sliding symbols is determined based on the stop table, stop operation position, and stop control position determined (selected) in A9. “The number of sliding symbols” is the number of symbols that move until the reel stops after the stop button is operated (shows the amount of movement (movement distance) of the symbol until the reel stops) . In the present embodiment, the “slip frame number” is “0”. That is, the reels are stopped simultaneously with the operation of the stop buttons 7L, 7C, 7R. Subsequently, the reel corresponding to the stop button for which the stop operation has been performed is rotated by the number of sliding frames and then stopped. Note that a reel stop signal (left, middle, right) is transmitted to the sub-control circuit 72 every time the stop button 7L, 7C, 7R is operated and the corresponding reel stops. Further, when all reels are stopped, an all reel stop signal is transmitted to the sub-control circuit 72.

  Next, the CPU 31 makes a winning determination (A11). In the winning determination, a winning combination (a winning combination) is identified based on a stop pattern of nine symbols of the reel that can be visually recognized through the transmissive liquid crystal panel 54. Specifically, a winning combination is identified based on a code number of symbols arranged along the center line 8c and a winning determination table. Then, the winning signal is transmitted to the sub control circuit 72. Thereafter, the acquired medal is credited or paid out (A12). Specifically, when a medal is acquired by winning, the payout number display unit 18 displays the acquired number of medals. Then, by switching the C / P button 14 by the player, it is possible to select whether to credit the acquired medal into the gaming machine 1 or pay out the medal from the medal payout exit 15. The credited medal can bet by pressing the BET buttons 11 and 12 in the next game. Thereafter, a game state transition process (A13) (detailed later with reference to FIG. 12) is performed, and the process returns to A2.

(Operation of main control circuit 71: gaming state transition process)
Next, the flow of the gaming state transition process in the control operation of the CPU 31 of the main control circuit 71 will be described with reference to the flowchart of the gaming state transition processing routine shown in FIG.

  First, it is determined whether or not the winning combination is BB (B1). When the winning combination is BB (B1: YES), the gaming state is set to “BB general gaming state” (B2). Thereafter, the carryover combination storage table is accessed, the BB flag is turned off (B3), and the gaming state transition processing routine is ended. In B1, if the winning combination is not BB (B1: NO), it is determined whether or not the winning combination is RB (B4). When the winning combination is RB (B4: YES), the gaming state is set to “RB gaming state” (B5). Thereafter, the carryover combination storage table is accessed, the RB flag is turned off (B6), and the gaming state transition processing routine is ended. In B4, if the winning combination is not RB (B4: NO), it is determined whether the internal winning combination is BB or RB (B7). When the internal winning combination is BB or RB (B7: YES), the carryover combination storing table is accessed and the BB flag or the RB flag is turned on (B8). If the internal winning combination is not BB or RB (B7: NO), the process proceeds to B9 described below.

  Next, it is determined whether or not the current gaming state is “BB general gaming state” or “RB gaming state” (B9). If the gaming state is not “BB general gaming state” or “RB gaming state” (B9: NO), the gaming state transition processing routine is terminated. When the game state is “BB general game state” or “RB game state” (B9: YES), “game number check process” of bonus (BB, RB) is performed (B10). In this “game number check process”, the number of times the RB gaming state has occurred, the number of games in the BB general gaming state, the number of winnings in the RB gaming state, and the number of games in the RB gaming state are checked, and the BB general gaming state and RB Transition (set) of gaming state between gaming states is performed.

  Next, it is determined whether or not the bonus is over (B11). Specifically, after the BB winning is established, whether the number of wins is 8 or the number of games is 12 in the third RB gaming state, or is the number of games is 30 in the BB general gaming state Determine whether or not. In addition, after “RB7-Red 7-Blue 7” is arranged along the active line, after the RB winning is established, whether or not the number of winnings is 8 times or the number of games is 12 times in the RB gaming state. Is determined. As a result, when it is determined that it is not the end of the bonus (B11: NO), the process returns to A2. On the other hand, if it is determined that the bonus is over (B11: YES), a bonus end signal is output to the sub-control circuit 72 (B12), and the gaming state transition processing routine is terminated.

(Operation of sub-control circuit 72: error notification)
Next, the error processing operation of the sub control circuit 72 will be described with reference to the flowchart of the error notification routine shown in FIG.

  In the main routine shown in FIG. 11, when an error that interrupts the game occurs, the main control circuit 71 transmits an error signal to the sub-control circuit 72. The sub CPU 74 determines whether an error signal has been received (C1), and detects the occurrence of an error by receiving the error signal (C1: YES). If no error signal is received, the process of C1 is repeated (C1: NO). Thereafter, the type of error that has occurred is determined from the received error signal (C2). An error message is acquired from the determined error type with reference to the error message table (C3). Next, with reference to the carryover combination storage table, it is determined whether the BB flag or the RB flag is on (C4). When the BB flag or the RB flag is on (C4: YES), the carryover combination of the flag that is on is acquired (C5). When the BB flag or the RB flag is not on (C4: NO), the process proceeds to C6 described below. Next, with reference to the internal information table, an internal information message corresponding to the carryover combination acquired in C5 is acquired (if no carryover combination is acquired in C5, an internal information message corresponding to the carryover combination "None") (C6). Further, a set value is acquired from the set value table (C7). Then, an internal information notification message is composed of the acquired internal information message and the set value (C8).

  Next, the sub CPU 74 transmits the error message acquired in C2 and the internal information notification message configured in C8 to the image control IC 82, and the image control IC 82 displays them on the liquid crystal display device 5 (C9). Thereafter, it is determined whether or not a return signal has been received (C10). When the return signal is not received (C10: NO), the process of C10 is repeated. When the return signal is received (C10: YES), the error message and the internal information notification message displayed on the liquid crystal display device 5 are not displayed (C11), and the error notification routine is terminated.

(Outline of this embodiment)
As described above, the gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment has a game start means (start lever 6, start switch 6S, 1-BET button 11, 1-BET switch) for starting a game as shown in FIGS. 11S, maximum BET button 12, maximum BET switch 12S, CPU 31 and the like) and symbol display means (stepping motors 49L / 49C / 49R, reel position detection circuit 50, reels 3L / 3C) for variably displaying a plurality of symbols at the start of the game 3R, etc.), an internal winning combination determining means (main control circuit 71, etc.) for determining an internal winning combination based on the start of the game, the gaming state and a predetermined winning probability, and based on the determined internal winning combination Game stop means (main control circuit 71, stop buttons 7L, 7C, 7R, etc.) for stopping the change display of the game, and the game change means by the game stop means. Game value giving means (main control circuit 71, hopper 40, hopper drive circuit 41, medal detection unit 40S, etc.) for paying out a game value when the display is stopped in a predetermined stop mode, and information relating to the game Storage means (ROM 32, RAM 33, etc.), error detection means (main control circuit 71, sub control circuit 72, etc.) for detecting an error that interrupts the game, and error determination means (main control) for determining the content of the error Circuit 71, sub-control circuit 72, etc.), error content notification means (main control circuit 71, sub-control circuit 72, image control IC 82, liquid crystal display device 5 etc.) for notifying the player of the error content, and error detection means Game information notification means (main control) for notifying the player of information related to the game stored in the storage means until the error is resolved Road 71, the sub-control circuit 72, an image control IC 82, and is a configuration that includes a liquid crystal display device 5, etc.) and.

  According to the above configuration, when an error that interrupts the game occurs, the error sensing means senses the error, the error content notifying means notifies the player of the error, and the game information notifying means relates to the game. Information is notified to the player. Thereby, the player can acquire information on the game instead of the time loss incurred when the game is interrupted, and thus the stress due to the interruption of the game may be reduced. Further, since the error content is notified by the error content notification means, the gaming machine administrator may be able to identify the cause of the error and respond quickly to the error.

  In addition, the gaming machine 1 in the present embodiment is an error relating to payout of game value by game value giving means (main control circuit 71, hopper 40, hopper drive circuit 41, medal detection unit 40S, etc.). Has been.

  According to the above configuration, when an error relating to payout of game value occurs, the error content and information related to the game are notified. Thereby, even if the game value to be received is not paid out as a result of the game, it becomes possible to grasp information about the game, so that the dissatisfaction of the player may be resolved.

  The gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment further includes a winning probability setting means (level setting knob 100, level setting switch 100S, etc.) for setting a winning probability, and information related to the game includes a winning probability, an internal winning combination, a gaming state. It is the structure characterized by being at least any one of these.

  According to said structure, the information alert | reported to a player is at least any one among the set winning probability, internal winning combination, and gaming state. That is, the player may be able to grasp information advantageous to the game. For example, the winning probability is one of the factors that determine the internal winning combination, and determines the determination probability of the internal winning combination. Therefore, when the error occurs, the player can play the game by notifying the player of the winning probability. In some cases, it is possible to obtain information on whether or not a gaming machine is advantageous. In addition, in the case of a gaming machine in which the internal winning combination can be carried over after the next game, by notifying the player of the internal winning combination, the player can know the symbols to be stopped. It may be possible to obtain advantageous information. Further, by notifying the player of the game state when an error occurs, it may be possible to accurately recognize the game state even if the player is a beginner.

(Modification of this embodiment)
In the present embodiment, a pachislot machine is used as the gaming machine 1, but the present invention is not limited to this, and a pachinko machine or an arcade game machine may be used.

  The gaming machine of this embodiment may include the following configuration in addition to or in duplicate with the configuration in the above-described embodiment.

  In the above-described embodiment, the notification method for displaying the error message and the internal information notification message on the liquid crystal display device 5 is used. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, a notification method of outputting an error message and an internal information notification message as sound from a speaker may be used.

  Further, in the above-described embodiment, the type of error that interrupts the game is the clogging of medals at the medal payout exit 15, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the error that interrupts the game may be a clogged medal at the medal slot 22, may be due to a lack of medals in the hopper 40, or various buttons become inoperable. It may be.

  The embodiments of the present invention have been described above, but only specific examples have been illustrated, and the present invention is not particularly limited. Specific configurations and the like can be appropriately changed in design. Further, the actions and effects described in the embodiments of the invention only list the most preferable actions and effects resulting from the present invention, and the actions and effects according to the present invention are described in the embodiments of the present invention. It is not limited to what was done.

The perspective view which shows the game machine of this Embodiment. The front view which shows the inside of the game machine of this Embodiment. The front view of the liquid crystal display device of the game machine of an Example. The perspective view which shows schematic structure of a liquid crystal display device. The block diagram of a main control circuit. The block diagram of a sub-control circuit. Error message table of the embodiment. The carryover combination storing table of the embodiment. The internal information table of an Example. The setting value table of an Example. The flowchart of a main routine. The flowchart of a game state transfer routine. The flowchart of an error alerting | reporting routine.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Game machine 3L * 3C * 3R Reel 5 Liquid crystal display device 6 Start lever 6S Start switch 7L * 7C * 7R Stop button 11 1-BET button 11S 1-BET switch 13 Maximum BET button 13S Maximum BET switch 31 CPU
32 ROM
33 RAM
40 hopper 41 hopper drive circuit 40S medal detection unit 49L / 49C / 49R stepping motor 50 reel position detection circuit 71 main control circuit 72 sub control circuit 82 image control IC
100 level setting knob 100S level setting switch

Claims (3)

Game starting means for starting a game;
A symbol display means for variably displaying a plurality of symbols at the start of the game;
An internal winning combination determining means for determining an internal winning combination based on the start of the game, the gaming state and a predetermined winning probability;
Based on the determined internal winning combination, game stop means for stopping the change display of the symbol,
A game value giving means for paying out a game value when the result of the change display of the symbol being stopped by the game stop means is a predetermined stop mode;
Storage means for storing information relating to the game;
Error sensing means for sensing an error that interrupts the game;
Error determination means for determining the content of the error;
Error content notification means for notifying the player of the content of the error;
Game information notification means for notifying a player of information about the game stored in the storage means until the error is resolved when the error detection means detects an error; A gaming machine characterized by   The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the error is an error relating to a payout of the game value by the game value giving means. A winning probability setting means for setting the winning probability;
Information about the game is:
The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the gaming machine is at least one of the winning probability, the internal winning combination, and the gaming state.

Images