JP2008086640A - Slot machine and play method of slot machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a slot machine and a play method of the slot machine, which are capable of arousing a player's expectation and executing a performance display with superior entertainment property. <P>SOLUTION: A liquid crystal display 17 has a plurality of sectional areas 28 formed into a matrix shape of 3 lines and 5 rows, scrolls symbols and stops them in each sectional area. When "APPLE"s are stopped in inner sectional areas 28b2-28d2 out of the plurality of sectional areas, a bonus game is provided. In the bonus game, a main CPU 41 disposes win marks H in prescribed positions of outer circumferential sectional areas 28a1-28e1, 28a2, 28e2 and 28a3-28e3, moves them and stops them. The main CPU 41 is paid out according to the symbols of stopped parts of the win marks H. <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 and a playing method of the slot machine.

  Conventionally, in a facility where a slot machine is installed, it is possible to play a game by inserting various game media such as coins and cash into the slot machine. Each slot machine pays out according to a prize generated by the progress of the game (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

  In addition, as a conventional slot machine, for example, in Patent Document 2, as a subsidiary game that shifts during execution of a basic game, an effect of overlapping a symbol displayed on a display area of a video reel and a character image is provided. It has been proposed to run free games to do.

However, in the above-described Patent Documents 1 and 2, it has been desired to propose a slot machine with poor entertainment properties and higher entertainment properties.
US Pat. No. 6,960,133 Australian Patent PQ6296

  An object of the present invention is to provide a slot machine and a playing method of the slot machine that can enhance the player's expectation and can perform an effect display with excellent entertainment properties.

  In order to achieve the above object, the first invention of the present application has a plurality of partition areas provided in a matrix of at least 3 columns and 3 rows, and a display for rearranging symbols arranged in each partition area; When a specific symbol is rearranged in an internal partition area in which four sides of the plurality of partition areas are in contact with other partition areas, the basic game is shifted to the bonus game. Alternatively, a winning mark is arranged at a specific position of the outer peripheral partition area where the three sides are in contact with the other divided areas, and the movement is performed after sequentially moving the winning mark placed at the specific position of the outer peripheral partition area within the outer peripheral partition area. The payout amount is determined according to the symbols rearranged in the partition area where the winning mark is stopped, and the payout is performed according to the payout amount. Characterized by comprising a controller.

  In the first invention, when a specific symbol is rearranged in the internal partition area, the game shifts to a bonus game. When the bonus game is executed, a winning mark is arranged at a specific location in the outer peripheral partition area. Furthermore, the winning marks placed at specific locations in the outer partition area are sequentially moved within the outer partition area, and then the movement is terminated and stopped, and the payout amount corresponding to the symbol of the partition area where the winning mark is stopped is determined. Then, payout according to the payout amount is performed.

  Therefore, it is possible to give the player a sense of expectation that a specific symbol is rearranged in the internal partition area, and it is possible to improve entertainment characteristics.

  A second invention of the present application has a plurality of partition areas provided in a matrix of at least three columns and three rows, a display for rearranging symbols arranged in each partition area, and a plurality of partition areas When a specific symbol is rearranged in an internal partition area where four sides touch another partition area, the basic game is shifted to the bonus game, and two or three of the plurality of partition areas are other partition areas when the bonus game is executed. A winning mark is placed at a specific location in the outer peripheral partition area, and the winning mark placed at the specific location in the outer peripheral partition area is moved sequentially within the outer peripheral partition area, and then the movement is stopped and stopped. The payout amount is determined according to the number of symbols in the partitioned area where the winning mark is stopped and the number of specific symbols rearranged in the internal partitioned area. A controller for payout, further comprising a characterized.

  In the second invention, when a specific symbol is rearranged in the internal partition area, the game shifts to the bonus game. When the bonus game is executed, a winning mark is arranged at a specific location in the outer peripheral partition area. Furthermore, the winning marks placed at specific locations in the outer partition area are sequentially moved within the outer partition area, and then the movement is terminated and stopped, and the payout amount corresponding to the symbol of the partition area where the winning mark is stopped is determined. Then, payout according to the payout amount is performed. Further, the payout amount is varied according to the number of specific symbols rearranged in the internal partition area.

  Therefore, the player can be interested in stopping more specific symbols in the internal partition area, and entertainment can be improved.

  A third invention of the present application has a plurality of partitioned areas provided in a matrix of at least 3 columns and 3 rows, a display for rearranging symbols arranged in each partitioned area, and a plurality of partitioned areas When a specific symbol is rearranged in an internal partition area where four sides touch another partition area, the basic game is shifted to the bonus game, and two or three of the plurality of partition areas are other partition areas when the bonus game is executed. A winning mark is placed at a specific location in the outer peripheral partition area, and the winning mark placed at the specific location in the outer peripheral partition area is moved sequentially within the outer peripheral partition area, and then the movement is stopped and stopped. Whether or not a specific symbol is rearranged in a specific area composed of at least one of the internal divided areas and the symbols of the divided areas where the winning mark is stopped The payout amount determined according to, characterized in that and a controller for payout in accordance with the payout amount.

  In the third invention, when a specific symbol is rearranged in the internal partition area, the game shifts to a bonus game. When the bonus game is executed, a winning mark is arranged at a specific location in the outer peripheral partition area. Furthermore, the winning marks placed at specific locations in the outer partition area are sequentially moved within the outer partition area, and then the movement is terminated and stopped, and the payout amount corresponding to the symbol of the partition area where the winning mark is stopped is determined. Then, payout according to the payout amount is performed. Further, the payout amount is varied depending on whether or not a specific symbol is rearranged in a specific area including at least one of the internal divided areas.

  Therefore, the player can be interested in the rearrangement of a specific symbol in a specific area, and entertainment can be improved.

  With the slot machine and the playing method of the slot machine according to the present invention, it is possible to improve the ability to attract customers and add new entertainment properties.

  Preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

  FIG. 1 is a flowchart schematically showing a playing method of the slot machine according to the first embodiment of the present invention. The schematic operation of the slot machine and the playing method according to the present invention will be described below with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. 1 and the perspective view shown in FIG.

  In the slot machine according to the present invention, when the power is turned on and the slot machine is activated, authentication processing is first performed (step S100). In this authentication process, an initial confirmation process is performed before the start of the basic game, such as whether the program for operating the system operates normally or whether the program has been tampered with.

  Next, a basic game is executed (step S200). In this basic game, when the spin button 23 is pressed in a state where a desired number of credits is bet, for example, by inserting coins into the coin receiving slot 21, it is provided inside the display window 15 provided on the front surface of the cabinet 11. In a total of 15 partitioned areas (28a1 to 28e3) (partition areas) of 5 columns and 3 rows, a basic game is executed in which symbol scrolling is started and then the symbols are stopped (rearranged). The suffixes “a” to “e” added to the partition area 28 indicate columns of the partition areas 28 provided in a matrix, and the suffixes “1” to “3” indicate rows (FIG. 9). reference).

  Next, it is determined whether or not a bonus game has been won (step S300). The bonus game is executed when a specific symbol stops in an internal partition area where four of the plurality of partition areas 28 are in contact with the other partition areas 28. Here, “contacting” does not have to be a state in which the partitioned areas 28 are completely in contact with each other, and may be in a state in which a gap is slightly opened. For example, the internal partition region corresponds to the partition region 28b2 in the second row and the second column shown in FIG. 9, the partition region 28c2 in the second row and the third column, and the partition region 28d2 in the second row and the fourth column. The bonus game is executed when, for example, an “APPLE” symbol serving as a bonus trigger is stopped in any one of these internal division regions 28b2 to 28d2 in the second row to the fourth column (see FIG. 10).

  When the bonus trigger is not established (step S300: NO), the process proceeds to step S100. On the other hand, when a bonus trigger is established (step S300: YES), a bonus game is executed. In the bonus game, first, a winning mark is arranged (step S400). The winning mark is arranged at a specific location in the outer peripheral partition area. The outer partition areas correspond to the partition areas 28a1 to 28e in the first row shown in FIG. 9, the partition area 28a2 in the first row and the first column, the partition area 28e2 in the second row and the fifth column, and the partition areas 28a3 to 28e3 in the third row. To do. As the winning mark H, for example, a horse mark is used as shown in FIG. However, the winning mark H is not limited to the horse mark, and may be a frame surrounding one partition area 28 or a background color changed, for example.

  Thereafter, the winning mark H is sequentially moved and displayed in the outer peripheral partition areas 28a to 28e1, 28a2, 28e2, 28a3 to 28e3 (step S500). Here, the winning mark H may be sequentially rearranged so as to proceed clockwise (or counterclockwise) through the outer peripheral partition regions 28a to 28e1, 28a2, 28e2, 28a3 to 28e3, or may be sequentially rearranged at random. May be. When the winning mark H is a horse mark, when the horse mark is sequentially rearranged clockwise (or counterclockwise) (that is, rearranged so as to move clockwise or counterclockwise). Reminiscent of horse racing, etc., further enhances entertainment.

  Thereafter, the rearrangement of the winning mark H is completed (step S600). Next, a payout amount is determined according to the symbol of the partition area 28 where the winning mark H is located, and a payout according to the payout amount is performed (step S800). For example, 10 coins are paid out when the symbol of the partition area 28 where the winning mark H is located is “APPLE”, 5 coins are paid out when “CRAB”, and 100 coins when “JOKER”. Will be paid out.

  Next, the configuration of the slot machine 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the perspective view shown in FIG. The slot machine 10 is installed in a game facility.

  In the slot machine 10, coins, bills, or electronic valuable information corresponding to these are used as game media for executing the basic game. 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.

  As shown in FIG. 2, 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.

  An upper image display panel 33 is provided in the upper stage of the cabinet 11, and a lower image display panel 16 is provided in the middle stage of the cabinet 11. A rectangular display window 15 is provided in the approximate center of the lower image display panel 16, and a liquid crystal display (display) 17 is provided inside the display window 15. The liquid crystal display 17 is divided into a total of 15 partition regions 28 (28a1 to 28e3) of 5 columns and 3 rows (see FIG. 9). Therefore, when the basic game is executed, the symbols are scroll-displayed in the partitioned areas 28 (28a1 to 28e3) of the liquid crystal display 17, and the player can visually recognize the scroll-displayed symbols through the display window 15. It is like that.

  In addition, although this embodiment demonstrates the example which uses the liquid crystal display 17 which has the partition area 28 of 5 columns and 3 rows as a display, a partition area is not limited to 5 columns and 3 rows, At least 3 columns, What is necessary is just three or more lines. In other words, any arrangement may be used as long as there is at least one internal partition region that is in contact with other partition regions in the four directions (up and down, left and right directions).

  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 is provided with a credit amount display unit 31 and a payout number display unit 32. The credit amount display unit 31 displays the number of credited coins as an image. In the payout number display section 32, the relationship between the number of symbols shown in FIG. 4 and the number of coins paid out is displayed as an image.

  Below the lower image display panel 16, a control panel 20 including a plurality of buttons 23 to 27 for inputting instructions relating to game progress by the player, a coin receiving slot 21 for receiving coins into the cabinet 11, and bill recognition A container 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 a button for inputting an instruction to start scrolling of each partition area 28 (28a1 to 28e3). The change button 24 is a button used when requesting exchange of money from a game facility staff. The cashout button 25 is a button for inputting an instruction to pay out credited coins to the coin tray 18.

  The 1-BET button 26 is a button for inputting an instruction to bet one coin among the credited coins on the game. The maximum BET button 27 is a button for inputting an instruction to bet a maximum number of coins (for example, 3) that can be bet on one game among credited coins.

  The banknote discriminator 22 recognizes whether or not the banknote is a regular one and accepts the regular banknote into 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. A berry glass 34 on which a character of the slot machine 10 is drawn is provided on the lower front surface of the main door 13, that is, below the control panel 20.

  An upper image display panel 33 is provided on the front surface of the top box 12. The upper image display panel 33 has a graphic board 68 and displays, for example, an effect image, an introduction of game content, and an image representing a game rule.

  The top box 12 is provided with a speaker 29 for outputting sound. 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. The player can play a game with another slot machine using the bar code-added ticket 39, or exchange the bar code-added ticket 39 with bills or the like using a cashier or the like of a game facility.

  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 data display 37 includes 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 inputs instructions and data related to ticket issuance and the like.

  FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram showing symbols that are scroll-displayed in the partitioned areas 28 (28a1 to 28e3) of the liquid crystal display 17 and then stopped. As shown in FIG. 3, the symbols “PLUM”, “ORANGE”, “STRAWBERRY”, “APPLE”, “LOBSTER”, “CRAB”, and “JOKER” are scroll-displayed.

  FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing a payout table in which symbols stopped in the respective divided areas 28 (28a1 to 28e3) and the number of coins to be paid out to the player are set when the basic game is being executed. As shown in the figure, when at least one “APPLE” symbol is stopped in the three partitioned areas 28b2 to 28d2, a bonus trigger is executed and a bonus game is executed.

  Further, when four “ORANGE” symbols are stopped, five coins are paid out, and when five symbols are stopped, ten coins are paid out. In addition, when 3 “PLUM” symbols are stopped, 5 coins are paid out. When 4 symbols are stopped, 10 coins are paid out. When 5 symbols are stopped, 15 coins are paid out. Coins are paid out.

  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 (Read Only Memory) 55 and a boot ROM 52, a card slot 53S corresponding to the memory card 53, and a GAL (Generic Array Logic) 54 connected to each other via an internal bus. IC socket 54S corresponding to the above.

  The memory card 53 includes a nonvolatile memory and stores a game program. The game program includes a symbol determination program. The symbol determination program is a program for determining a symbol (a code number corresponding to a symbol) to be stopped and displayed in each partition area 28.

  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 and the gaming board 50 constitute a controller 48.

  The motherboard 40 is configured using a commercially available general-purpose motherboard (printed wiring board on which basic components of a personal computer are mounted), and includes a main CPU 41, a ROM 42, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 43, and a communication interface 44. ing.

  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.

  Connected to the main body PCB 60 are a lamp 30, a sub CPU 61, a hopper 66, a coin detection unit 67, a graphic board 68, a speaker 29, a bill validator 22, a ticket printer 35, a card reader 36, a key switch 38S, and a data display 37. ing. The lamp 30 is lit in a predetermined pattern based on a control signal output from the main CPU 41.

  The sub CPU 61 is connected to a VDP (Video Display Processor) 46. The VDP 46 reads the symbol image data stored in the image data ROM 47, generates an image to be displayed on each partition area 28 (28 a 1 to 28 e 3) of the liquid crystal display 17, and outputs this image data to the liquid crystal display 17. To do.

  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. The credit amount display unit 31 of the lower image display panel 16 displays the credit amount stored in the RAM 43. Further, the payout number display section 32 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 spin 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, and a 1-BET switch corresponding to the 1-BET button 26. 26S and 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.

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

  FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing game execution processing. In the game execution process, first, the main CPU 41 determines whether or not a coin has been bet (step S11). 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 (step S11: NO), the process returns to step S11.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S11 that a coin has been bet (step S11: YES), the main CPU 41 performs a process of subtracting the number of credits stored in the RAM 43 according to the number of coins bet (step S11). S12). If the number of coins bet is larger than the number of credits stored in the RAM 43, the process returns to step S11 without performing the process of subtracting the number of credits stored in the RAM 43. In addition, when the number of coins bet exceeds the upper limit value (for example, 3) that can be bet on one game, the process of subtracting the number of credits stored in the RAM 43 is not performed. The process proceeds to step S13.

  In step S13, the main CPU 41 determines whether or not the spin button 23 is turned on. In this process, the main CPU 41 determines whether or not an input signal output from the spin switch 23S when the spin button 23 is pressed is received.

  If it is determined that the spin button 23 is not turned on (step S13: NO), the process returns to step S11. 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 displays the subtraction result in step S12. Cancel.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S13 that the spin button 23 has been turned on (step S13: YES), the main CPU 41 performs symbol determination processing (step S14). In this symbol determination process, the main CPU 41 determines a code number when the symbol is stopped by executing a symbol determination program stored in the RAM 43. This process will be described in detail later with reference to FIG. In the present embodiment, a case where one or more prizes are determined from among a plurality of types of prizes by determining symbols to be stopped and displayed will be described. One or a plurality of awards selected from among awards may be determined, and then a combination of symbols to be stopped and displayed may be determined based on the awards.

  Next, the main CPU 41 performs a scroll display control process for each partition area 28 (28a1 to 28e3) of the liquid crystal display 17 (step S15). This process is a process of controlling the display so that the symbols determined in step S14 are stopped and displayed after the scrolling of the symbols is started.

  Next, the main CPU 41 determines whether or not a bonus game trigger has been established, that is, an “APPLE” symbol serving as a bonus trigger is displayed in the internal partition areas 28b2 to 28d2 of the 15 partition areas 28 (28a1 to 28e3). It is determined whether at least one has been stopped (step S16). If it is determined that a bonus trigger has been established (step S16: YES), the main CPU 41 reads a program for playing a bonus game from the RAM 43, executes bonus game processing (step S17), and ends this subroutine. . The bonus game process will be described later in detail with reference to FIG.

  When determining that the bonus game trigger has not been established (step S16: NO), the main CPU 41 determines whether or not a prize has been established (step S18). The establishment of the prize is determined by the number of scatter symbols stopped in each of the 15 divided areas 28 (28a1 to 28e3) or a combination of specific symbols stopped on the payline. For example, as shown in FIG. 4, when four “ORANGE” symbols are stopped as scatter symbols, five payouts are generated.

  Then, the main CPU 41 performs a coin payout process (step S19), and ends this subroutine. If no prize is established (step S18: NO), this subroutine is terminated.

  FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing a subroutine of stop symbol determination processing executed in step S14 of 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 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 a symbol to be stopped in each partition area 28 (28a1 to 28e3) based on the selected random number value (step S32).

  FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing a bonus game process subroutine executed in step S17 shown in FIG. In the bonus game process, first, the main CPU 41 places, for example, a horse winning mark H at a specific place (for example, the divided area 28e1) in the outer divided areas 28a to 28e1, 28a2, 28e2, 28a3 to 28e3 (step S61). Next, the main CPU 41 determines whether or not the spin button 23 has been turned on (step S62). When the spin button 23 is not turned on (step S62: NO), the main CPU 41 repeats this process until it is determined that the spin button 23 is turned on.

  On the other hand, when the spin button 23 is turned on (step S62: YES), the main CPU 41 sequentially rearranges the winning marks H (step S63). Then, it is determined whether or not the rearrangement is finished (step S64). When it is determined that the rearrangement has not ended (step S64: NO), the main CPU 41 shifts the process to step S63.

  On the other hand, when it is determined that the rearrangement is completed (step S64: YES), that is, when the winning mark H is stopped, the main CPU 41 determines the payout amount according to the symbol of the partition area 28 where the winning mark H is located. To do. Here, the rearrangement of the winning mark H is performed by random number processing, for example. The payout amount according to the symbol is, for example, 10 for “APPLE”, 5 for “CRAB”, 100 for “JOKER”, and the like.

  Then, a payout process for the payout amount is performed (step S66). Thereafter, the main CPU 41 erases the winning mark H (step S67). Thus, the bonus game is executed.

  Although only one winning mark is shown in FIG. 10, a plurality of winning marks H may be provided. In this case, the main CPU 41 adds the payout amount according to the symbol of the partition area 28 where each of the plurality of winning marks H is located at the end of the rearrangement of the plurality of winning marks H, and according to the added payout amount. Make a payout. Further, the main CPU 41 may perform payout for the maximum payout amount according to the symbol of the partition area 28 where each of the plurality of winning marks H is located at the end of rearrangement of the plurality of winning marks H.

  In this manner, in the slot machine according to the present embodiment, the main CPU 41 shifts the basic game to the bonus game when “APPLE” is rearranged in the internal partition areas 28b2 to 28d2. At the time of executing the bonus game, the main CPU 41 places a winning mark H at a specific place (for example, the partition area 28e1) in the outer peripheral partition areas 28a1 to 28e1, 28a2, 28e2, 28a3 to 28e3. Further, the main CPU 41 sequentially repeats the winning marks H arranged at specific locations in the outer peripheral partition areas 28a1 to 28e1, 28a2, 28e2, 28a3 to 28e3 in the outer peripheral partition areas 28a1 to 28e1, 28a2, 28e2, 28a3 to 28e3. After the placement, the rearrangement is terminated. Then, the main CPU 41 performs payout according to the symbol of the partition area 28 where the winning mark H is located at the end of the rearrangement of the winning mark H.

  Therefore, it is possible to give the player a sense of expectation that “APPLE” will be rearranged in the internal partition areas 28b2 to 28d2, and to improve entertainment.

  Further, the main CPU 41 arranges a plurality of winning marks H (for example, arranged in the partition area 28e1 and the partition area 28a3). Then, the main CPU 41 adds the payout amount according to the symbol of the partition area 28 where each of the plurality of winning marks H is located at the end of rearrangement of the plurality of winning marks H, and pays out according to the added payout amount. Do.

  For this reason, it is possible to give a sense of expectation to the place where each winning mark H is located at the end of the rearrangement, and furthermore, since each payout amount is added, a high payout can be expected, further improving entertainment properties. Can be made.

  Further, the main CPU 41 arranges a plurality of winning marks H. Then, the main CPU 41 pays out the maximum payout amount according to the symbol of the partition area 28 where each of the plurality of winning marks H is located at the end of rearrangement of the plurality of winning marks H.

  For this reason, it is possible to give a sense of expectation to the place where each winning mark H is located at the end of the rearrangement, and furthermore, since the maximum value of each payout amount is paid out, a high payout is given to one winning mark H. Even if it is not obtained, the entertainment property can be further improved without reducing the player's expectation.

  Next, a slot machine and a playing method of the slot machine according to the second embodiment of the present invention will be described. The slot machine and the playing method of the slot machine in the second embodiment are the same as those in the first embodiment, but the processing contents are different. Hereinafter, differences from the first embodiment will be described.

  FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing bonus game processing executed in the slot machine according to the second embodiment of the present invention. Note that steps S71 to S74, S76, and S77 shown in FIG. 11 are the same processes as steps S61 to S64, S66, and S67 shown in FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 11, after the rearrangement of the winning mark H is completed (after step S74), the main CPU 41 not only displays the symbols of the partition area 28 where the winning mark H is located at the end of the rearrangement of the winning mark H. In addition, the payout amount corresponding to the number of “APPLE” rearranged in the internal partition regions 28b2 to 28d2 is determined (step S75).

  Specifically, when the payout amount corresponding to the symbol is 10, the main CPU 41 determines the payout amount as 10 coins if “APPLE” rearranged in the internal partition areas 28b2 to 28d2 is one. If there are two “APPLE” rearranged in the internal partition areas 28b2 to 28d2, the payout amount is determined to be 20 coins, and “APPLE” rearranged in the internal partition areas 28b2 to 28d2 is 3 If it is a piece, the payout amount is determined to be 30 coins. Thereafter, the main CPU 41 executes payout processing (step S76) and erasure of the winning mark H (step S77), and this subroutine ends.

  In this manner, in the slot machine according to the present embodiment, the main CPU 41 shifts the basic game to the bonus game when “APPLE” is rearranged in the internal partition areas 28b2 to 28d2. At the time of executing the bonus game, the main CPU 41 places a winning mark H at a specific place (for example, the partition area 28e1) in the outer peripheral partition areas 28a1 to 28e1, 28a2, 28e2, 28a3 to 28e3. Further, the main CPU 41 sequentially repeats the winning marks H arranged at specific locations in the outer peripheral partition areas 28a1 to 28e1, 28a2, 28e2, 28a3 to 28e3 in the outer peripheral partition areas 28a1 to 28e1, 28a2, 28e2, 28a3 to 28e3. After the placement, the rearrangement is terminated. Then, the main CPU 41 performs payout according to the symbol of the partition area 28 where the winning mark H is located at the end of the rearrangement of the winning mark H. Further, the main CPU 41 varies the payout amount according to the number of “APPLE” rearranged in the internal partition areas 28b2 to 28d2.

  Accordingly, it is possible to give the player a sense of expectation that more “APPLE” will be rearranged in the internal partition regions 28b2 to 28d2, and to improve entertainment.

  Further, as in the first embodiment, it is possible to give a sense of expectation to the place where each winning mark H is located at the end of the rearrangement, and furthermore, since each payout amount is added, a high payout is expected. It is possible to further improve entertainment. In addition, it is possible to give a sense of expectation to the place where each winning mark H is located at the end of the rearrangement, and furthermore, since the highest payout amount is paid out, a high payout can be obtained for each winning mark H. Even if it is not possible, entertainment can be further improved without reducing the player's expectation.

  Next, a slot machine and a playing method of the slot machine according to the third embodiment of the present invention will be described. The slot machine and the playing method of the slot machine in the third embodiment are the same as those in the first embodiment, but the processing contents are different. Hereinafter, differences from the first embodiment will be described.

  FIG. 12 is an explanatory view showing a display example of the slot machine according to the third embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 12, in the slot machine according to the third embodiment, after the spin button 23 is turned on, the main CPU 41 blinks any one of the internal partition areas 28b2 to 28d2 at random. This blinking partition area 28d2 becomes a specific area.

  FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing the bonus game process executed in the slot machine according to the third embodiment of the present invention. Note that steps S81 to S84, S86, and S87 shown in FIG. 13 are the same processes as steps S61 to S64, S66, and S67 shown in FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 13, after the rearrangement of the winning mark H is completed (after step S84), the main CPU 41 not only displays the symbol of the partition area 28 where the winning mark H is located when the rearrangement of the winning mark H ends. In addition, the payout amount is determined according to whether or not “APPLE” is rearranged in the specific area 28d2 (step S85).

  Specifically, when the payout amount corresponding to the symbol is 10 and the “APPLE” is not rearranged in the specific area, the main CPU 41 determines the payout amount as 10 coins, and the “APPLE” is set in the specific area. "Is rearranged, the payout amount is determined to be 30 coins. Thereafter, the main CPU 41 executes payout processing (step S86) and erasure of the winning mark H (step S87), and this subroutine ends.

  In the third embodiment, the main CPU 41 is not limited to the case where only one of the internal partition areas 28b2 to 28d2 is set as the specific area, and may be set as two or more specific areas. Further, the main CPU 41 is not limited to causing the player to recognize the specific area by blinking, and may use various methods such as changing the background color.

  In this manner, in the slot machine according to the present embodiment, the main CPU 41 shifts to the bonus game when “APPLE” is rearranged in the internal partition areas 28b2 to 28d2. At the time of executing the bonus game, the main CPU 41 places a winning mark H at a specific place (for example, the partition area 28e1) in the outer peripheral partition areas 28a1 to 28e1, 28a2, 28e2, 28a3 to 28e3. Further, the main CPU 41 sequentially repeats the winning marks H arranged at specific locations in the outer peripheral partition areas 28a1 to 28e1, 28a2, 28e2, 28a3 to 28e3 in the outer peripheral partition areas 28a1 to 28e1, 28a2, 28e2, 28a3 to 28e3. After the placement, the rearrangement is terminated. Then, the main CPU 41 performs payout according to the symbol of the partition area 28 where the winning mark H is located at the end of the rearrangement of the winning mark H. Further, the main CPU 41 varies the above-mentioned payout amount depending on whether or not “APPLE” is rearranged in a specific area composed of at least one of the internal partitioned areas 28b2 to 28d2.

  Therefore, the player can be interested in the rearrangement of “APPLE” in the specific area, and the entertainment characteristics can be improved.

  Further, as in the first embodiment, it is possible to give a sense of expectation to the place where each winning mark H is located at the end of the rearrangement, and furthermore, since each payout amount is added, a high payout is expected. It is possible to further improve entertainment.

  In addition, it is possible to give a sense of expectation to the place where each winning mark H is located at the end of the rearrangement, and furthermore, since the highest payout amount is paid out, a high payout can be obtained for each winning mark H. Even if it is not possible, entertainment can be further improved without reducing the player's expectation.

  The slot machine and the playing method of the slot machine of the present invention have been described based on the illustrated embodiment. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the configuration of each unit is an arbitrary configuration having the same function. Can be replaced.

  For example, in the above-described embodiment, an example of shifting to the bonus game when the symbol “APPLE”, which is a specific symbol, is rearranged in the internal partition areas 28b2 to 28d2, has been described. Other than “APPLE” may be used.

  In the above embodiment, the bonus game is described to return to the basic game once. However, the bonus game is not limited to once and may be continuously executed a plurality of times. In this case, the payout amount may be determined for each bonus game, or payout may be performed at the end of a plurality of bonus games.

  Moreover, in the said embodiment, although a display is the liquid crystal display device 17, it may replace with the liquid crystal display device 17 and may use other displays, such as CRT and a plasma display.

  It is extremely useful in providing a slot machine that improves the ability to attract customers and enhances entertainment.

21 is a flowchart showing a schematic processing procedure of the playing method of the slot machine according to the present invention. FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing an appearance of the slot machine according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing symbols displayed on the rotating reels of the slot machine according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is an explanatory view showing a payout table for determining the payout amount of the slot machine according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an internal configuration of the slot machine according to the first embodiment of the present invention. It is a flowchart which shows the game execution process performed with the slot machine which concerns on 1st Embodiment of this invention. 4 is a flowchart showing a symbol determination process executed in the slot machine according to the first embodiment of the present invention. 4 is a flowchart showing a bonus game process executed in the slot machine according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram showing partition areas of the slot machine according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a display example of the slot machine according to the first embodiment of the present invention. It is a flowchart which shows the bonus game process performed with the slot machine which concerns on 2nd Embodiment of this invention. It is an explanatory view showing a display example of the slot machine according to the third embodiment of the present invention. It is a flowchart which shows the bonus game process performed with the slot machine which concerns on 3rd Embodiment of this invention.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 Slot machine 11 Cabinet 12 Top box 13 Main door 16 Lower image display panel 17 Liquid crystal display 18 Coin tray 19 Coin payout 20 Control panel 21 Coin entrance 22 Bill identifier 23 Spin button 24 Change button 25 Cash out button 26 1-BET button 27 Maximum BET button 28 Partition area 29 Speaker 30 Lamp 31 Credit number display part 32 Payout number display part 33 Upper image display panel 34 Belly glass 35 Ticket printer 36 Card entry 37 Data display 38 Keypad 39 Bar code Ticket with 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 80 Door PCB
81 Cold cathode tube 92 Count display

Claims (10)

A display having a plurality of partition areas arranged in a matrix of at least three columns and three rows, and rearranging symbols arranged in each partition area;
When a specific symbol is rearranged in an internal partition area in which four of the plurality of partition areas are in contact with other partition areas, the game shifts from the basic game to the bonus game. Place a winning mark at a specific location in the outer peripheral partition area where the three sides touch another partition area, and move the winning mark placed at the specific location in the outer peripheral partition area sequentially within the outer peripheral partition region, and then the movement ends And a controller for determining a payout amount according to the symbols rearranged in the partition area where the winning mark is stopped, and paying out according to the payout amount;
A slot machine characterized by comprising: A display having a plurality of partition areas arranged in a matrix of at least three columns and three rows, and rearranging symbols arranged in each partition area;
When a specific symbol is rearranged in an internal partition area in which four of the plurality of partition areas are in contact with other partition areas, the game shifts from the basic game to the bonus game. Place a winning mark at a specific location in the outer peripheral partition area where the three sides touch another partition area, and move the winning mark placed at the specific location in the outer peripheral partition area sequentially within the outer peripheral partition region, and then the movement ends The payout amount is determined according to the number of symbols in the partitioned area where the winning mark is stopped and the number of specific symbols rearranged in the internal partitioned area, and payout is performed according to the payout amount. When,
A slot machine characterized by comprising: A display having a plurality of partition areas arranged in a matrix of at least three columns and three rows, and rearranging symbols arranged in each partition area;
When a specific symbol is rearranged in an internal partition area in which four of the plurality of partition areas are in contact with other partition areas, the game shifts from the basic game to the bonus game. Place a winning mark at a specific location in the outer peripheral partition area where the three sides touch another partition area, and move the winning mark placed at the specific location in the outer peripheral partition area sequentially within the outer peripheral partition region, and then the movement ends The payout amount is determined depending on whether or not a specific symbol is rearranged in a specific area consisting of at least one of the internal division areas and the symbols of the division areas where the winning mark is stopped And a controller that pays out according to the payout amount,
A slot machine characterized by comprising:   The controller arranges a plurality of the winning marks, adds a payout amount according to the symbol of the partition area stopped after the plurality of winning marks move, and pays out according to the added payout amount. The slot machine according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that:   2. The controller according to claim 1, wherein the controller arranges a plurality of winning marks, and pays out a maximum payout amount according to a symbol of a partition area stopped after moving the plurality of winning marks. Item 4. The slot machine according to any one of Items3. When rearranging symbols arranged on a display having a plurality of partition areas arranged in a matrix of three columns and three rows, four of the plurality of partition areas are set as internal partition areas in contact with other partition areas. Transition from a basic game to a bonus game when certain symbols are rearranged,
When the bonus game is executed, a stage in which a winning mark is arranged at a specific portion of the outer peripheral partition area where two or three of the plurality of partition areas are in contact with the other partition areas;
A step of stopping and stopping the movement after sequentially moving the winning marks placed at specific locations in the outer peripheral partition area within the outer peripheral partition area;
Determining a payout amount according to the symbol of the partition area where the winning mark is stopped, and paying out according to the payout amount;
A method for playing a slot machine, comprising: When rearranging symbols arranged on a display having a plurality of partition areas arranged in a matrix of three columns and three rows, four of the plurality of partition areas are set as internal partition areas in contact with other partition areas. Transition from a basic game to a bonus game when certain symbols are rearranged,
When the bonus game is executed, a stage in which a winning mark is arranged at a specific portion of the outer peripheral partition area where two or three of the plurality of partition areas are in contact with the other partition areas;
A step of stopping and stopping the movement after sequentially moving the winning marks placed at specific locations in the outer peripheral partition area within the outer peripheral partition area;
Determining a payout amount according to the number of symbols in the partition area where the winning mark is stopped and the number of specific symbols rearranged in the internal partition area, and paying out according to the payout amount;
A method for playing a slot machine, comprising: When rearranging symbols arranged on a display having a plurality of partition areas arranged in a matrix of three columns and three rows, four of the plurality of partition areas are set as internal partition areas in contact with other partition areas. Transition from a basic game to a bonus game when certain symbols are rearranged,
When the bonus game is executed, a stage in which a winning mark is arranged at a specific portion of the outer peripheral partition area where two or three of the plurality of partition areas are in contact with the other partition areas;
A step of stopping and stopping the movement after sequentially moving the winning marks placed at specific locations in the outer peripheral partition area within the outer peripheral partition area;
The payout amount is determined according to whether or not a specific symbol is rearranged in a specific area composed of at least one of the internal partitioned areas and the symbol of the partitioned area where the winning mark is stopped. Payout according to the amount,
A method for playing a slot machine, comprising: When the bonus game is executed, a plurality of the winning marks are arranged, and after the plurality of winning marks are moved, the amount of payout corresponding to the symbols of the respective divided areas stopped after moving is added,
Payout according to the amount of payout added,
The play method of the slot machine according to claim 6, further comprising:   At the time of execution of the bonus game, a plurality of the winning marks are arranged, and after paying out the maximum payout amount according to the symbols of the respective divided areas after the movement of the plurality of winning marks and stopping the movement. The method of playing a slot machine according to claim 6, further comprising a step.

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