JP2008093424A - Slot machine and its play method - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a slot machine with new entertainment potentialities and its play method. <P>SOLUTION: When a sub game in which specified symbols are selected by an outside input out of a plurality of symbols is executed, the slot machine works to execute a special game at a prescribed frequency as unit game after the sub game to change the amount of the payout of the credit according to the frequency of appearance of the specified symbols on the main display during the special game. The frequency of the appearance of the specified symbols on the main display and the amount of the payout of the credit corresponding to the frequency of appearance are displayed on a sub display. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2008,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a slot machine for playing a game using game media such as coins and bills, and a playing method thereof.

  A conventional slot machine is disclosed in US Pat. No. 6,960,133 B1 or US Pat. No. 6,012,983. In these slot machines, when a player inserts a game medium such as a medal, a coin, or a bill into the slot machine slot and inputs a spin button, a plurality of symbols are scroll-displayed on a display unit provided in front of the housing. Thereafter, each symbol is automatically stopped. At this time, triggered by the input of the spin button, a random number is generated when scroll display of each symbol is started, thereby randomly determining a symbol to be stopped. When you decide to move to a bonus game such as a mystery bonus or a second game through the process of determining the symbols to be stopped, you will receive a payout of coins and credits associated with awards such as a mystery bonus, Then, the bonus game is executed. The slot machine is configured to pay out a predetermined payout when a winning combination is generated as the game progresses.

  US Pat. No. 6,093,102 (Patent Document 1) discloses a slot machine that pays out a payout when symbols are arranged on a specific line called a payline. Further, US Pat. No. 6,604,999 B2 (Patent Document 2) and US Pat. No. US20020605124A1 (Patent Document 3) disclose a payout determined by a combination of symbols stopped on a payline and a symbol called a scatter that is not affected by the payline (hereinafter, scatter). There is disclosed a slot machine that performs two types of payouts determined by the number of displayed symbols).

The scatter symbol in such a slot machine is a trigger for payout according to the number of sheets.
US patent US6093102 US Pat. No. 6,604,999 B2 US Patent No. US2002065124A1

  In the conventional slot machine, the scatter symbol is only a trigger for payout by the number of sheets, and an application for a slot machine with new entertainment properties is desired.

  In the first aspect of the present invention, in a unit game, a main display on which a plurality of arranged symbols are rearranged, an appearance frequency of a specific symbol, and a payout amount of a credit corresponding to the appearance frequency are displayed. And when a sub-game for selecting a specific symbol from the plurality of symbols by external input is executed, a special game as a unit game is executed a predetermined number of times after the sub-game. A credit payout amount according to the appearance frequency of the specific symbol on the main display, and an appearance frequency of the specific symbol on the main display, and a credit payout amount according to the appearance frequency, And a controller for displaying on the sub-display It is a slot machine which is characterized in Rukoto.

  In the slot machine according to the first aspect of the present invention, when a specific symbol is selected by the player's operation, the credit is determined according to the frequency of appearance of the specific symbol on the main display in the special game that is a unit game. The controller controls the amount of payout to change. Further, the controller controls the sub-display to display the appearance frequency of the specific symbol and the payout amount of the credit according to the appearance frequency.

  According to a second aspect of the present invention, a main display in which a plurality of arranged symbols are rearranged in a unit game, an appearance frequency of a specific symbol, and a payout amount of a credit corresponding to the appearance frequency are displayed. And when a sub-game for selecting a specific symbol from the plurality of symbols by external input is executed, a special game as a unit game is executed a predetermined number of times after the sub-game. The amount of payout of credit is changed according to the appearance frequency of the specific symbol on the main display, and when the specific symbol is a symbol with a small expected payout value, the symbol with a larger expected payout value is used. The payout of the credit according to the appearance frequency of the symbol When the specific symbol is a symbol having a large payout expectation value, the credit payout amount corresponding to the appearance frequency of the symbol is reduced as compared with a symbol having a small payout expectation value, and A slot machine comprising: a controller that displays an appearance frequency of the specific symbol on the main display and a payout amount of a credit corresponding to the appearance frequency on the sub display.

  In the slot machine according to the second aspect of the present invention, when a specific symbol is a symbol with a small expected payout value, a credit payout according to the appearance frequency of the symbol is higher than a symbol with a large expected payout value. When the amount is increased and the specific symbol is a symbol having a large expected payout value, the controller is configured to reduce a credit payout amount corresponding to the appearance frequency of the symbol, compared to a symbol having a small expected payout value. Control. Therefore, when the player selects a symbol with a small expected value, the payout probability is low, but the payout amount increases depending on the number of symbols rearranged. In addition, when the player selects a symbol with a large expected value, the payout probability increases, although the payout amount decreases.

  According to a third aspect of the present invention, in a unit game, a main display on which a plurality of arranged symbols are rearranged, an appearance frequency of a specific symbol, and a payout amount of a credit corresponding to the appearance frequency are displayed. And when a sub-game for selecting a specific symbol from the plurality of symbols by external input is executed, a special game as a unit game is executed a predetermined number of times after the sub-game. The amount of payout of credit is changed according to the appearance frequency of the specific symbol on the main display, and when the specific symbol is a symbol with a small expected payout value, the symbol with a larger expected payout value is used. The payout of the credit according to the appearance frequency of the symbol When the specific symbol is a symbol having a large payout expectation value, the credit payout amount corresponding to the appearance frequency of the symbol is less than a symbol having a small payout expectation value. Each time the special game ends or each time the specific symbol is rearranged on the main display, the appearance frequency of the specific symbol on the main display and the payout amount of the credit corresponding to the appearance frequency are updated. And a controller for displaying on the sub-display.

  In the slot machine according to the third aspect of the present invention, every time a special game ends or each time a specific symbol is rearranged on the main display, the frequency of appearance of the specific symbol on the main display and the frequency of appearance are determined. The controller controls to update the credit payout amount and display it on the sub-display.

  According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, the controller rearranges a plurality of arranged symbols on a main display in a unit game, and a sub-selection of a specific symbol from the plurality of symbols by external input. When the game is executed, a special game as a unit game is executed a predetermined number of times after the sub game, and the payout amount of credit is changed according to the appearance frequency of the specific symbol on the main display in the special game And a step of displaying, on a sub-display, an appearance frequency of the specific symbol on the main display and a credit payout amount corresponding to the appearance frequency. It is.

  In the playing method of the slot machine according to the fourth aspect of the present invention, when a specific symbol is selected by the operation of the player, the specific symbol is displayed on the main display in the special game which is a unit game. The credit payout amount is controlled to change. In addition, the appearance frequency of the specific symbol and the payout amount of the credit corresponding to the appearance frequency are displayed on the sub-display.

  According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, a controller rearranges a plurality of arranged symbols on a main display in a unit game, and a sub-selection of a specific symbol from the plurality of symbols by external input. When the game is executed, a special game as a unit game is executed a predetermined number of times after the sub game, and the payout amount of credit is changed according to the appearance frequency of the specific symbol on the main display in the special game And when the specific symbol is a symbol with a small expected payout value, the amount of credit payout according to the appearance frequency of the symbol is increased more than the symbol with a large expected payout value, and the specific symbol Is a symbol with a high expected payout value In some cases, the step of reducing the amount of credit payout according to the appearance frequency of the symbol than the symbol having a small expected payout value, the appearance frequency of the specific symbol on the main display, and the appearance frequency And displaying a credit payout amount on a sub-display.

  In the playing method of the slot machine according to the fifth aspect of the present invention, when a specific symbol is a symbol with a small expected payout value, the symbol is more in accordance with the appearance frequency of the symbol than a symbol with a large expected payout value. When the amount of credit payout increases and the specific symbol is a symbol with a large expected payout value, the amount of credit payout according to the appearance frequency of the symbol is smaller than a symbol with a small expected payout value. To be controlled. Therefore, when the player selects a symbol with a small expected value, the payout probability is low, but the payout amount increases depending on the number of symbols rearranged. In addition, when the player selects a symbol with a large expected value, the payout probability increases, although the payout amount decreases.

  According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, a controller rearranges a plurality of arranged symbols on a main display in a unit game, and a sub for selecting a specific symbol from the plurality of symbols by external input. When the game is executed, a special game as a unit game is executed a predetermined number of times after the sub game, and the payout amount of credit is changed according to the appearance frequency of the specific symbol on the main display in the special game And when the specific symbol is a symbol with a small expected payout value, the amount of credit payout according to the appearance frequency of the symbol is increased more than the symbol with a large expected payout value, and the specific symbol Is a symbol with a high expected payout value In some cases, the step of reducing the amount of credit payout according to the appearance frequency of the symbol is smaller than the symbol having a small expected payout value, and the special symbol is rearranged on the main display at the end of each special game. And a step of updating an appearance frequency of the specific symbol on the main display and a credit payout amount corresponding to the appearance frequency and displaying the updated amount on a sub-display. How to play.

  In the playing method of the slot machine according to the sixth aspect of the present invention, the frequency of appearance of a specific symbol on the main display and the appearance of the specific symbol at the end of each special game or each time a specific symbol is rearranged on the main display. The credit payout amount according to the frequency is updated and displayed on the sub-display.

  ADVANTAGE OF THE INVENTION According to this invention, the slot machine provided with new entertainment property and its playing method can be provided.

  FIG. 1 is a flowchart schematically showing a playing method of a slot machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. Hereinafter, with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. 1 and the perspective view shown in FIG. 2, a schematic operation of the slot machine and the playing method according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described.

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

  Next, a basic game is executed (step S200). In this basic game, a coin is inserted into the coin accepting slot 21 by the player, and is executed with the player pressing the spin button 23 in a state where a desired number of credits is bet.

  A lower image display panel 16 is provided on the front surface of the cabinet 11. The lower image display panel 16 is provided with a display window 15 and a liquid crystal display 17 is provided inside thereof. The liquid crystal display 17 includes display areas 28 (28a to 28e) for displaying symbols in five columns and three rows. In each display area 28, symbols are arranged. In the basic game, scrolling of the symbols arranged in each display area 28 is started with the press of the spin button 23 by the player as a trigger. Then, the scrolling is automatically stopped after the predetermined time has elapsed, and the symbols are stopped (rearranged) in the respective display areas 28. That is, in the basic game, unit games for five columns are executed. In the slot machine according to the present embodiment, processing for determining symbols to be stopped in the display areas 28 (28a to 28e) is performed in the basic game.

  Next, all symbols that can be displayed in each display area 28 (28a to 28e), that is, "JACKPOT 7," "BLUE 7," "BELL," "CHERRY," "STRAWBERRY," "PLUM," "ORANGE" , “APPLE”, “LOBSTER”, “CRAB”, it is determined whether or not to execute a sub game for selecting a specific symbol (step S300).

  If it is determined that the sub game is to be executed (YES in step S300), the sub game is executed (step S400).

  The selection of a specific symbol in this subgame can be performed by, for example, the symbol selection display unit 14 provided below the display window 15. The symbol display areas 14a to 14j of the symbol selection display unit 14 include "JACKPOT 7," "BLUE 7," "BELL," "CHERRY," "STRAWBERRY," "PLUM," "ORANGE," "APPLE," Symbols “LOBSTER” and “CRAB” are displayed. When the player selectively touches one of the symbol display areas 14a to 14j on which the symbol is displayed, an input signal corresponding to the symbol display area 14a to 14j subjected to the touch operation is displayed on the lower image display panel 16. It is output from a touch panel 69 (see FIG. 8) provided on the front surface.

  In the present embodiment, the symbol display areas 14a to 14j are lit and displayed in a color-coded state according to the expected value for each symbol. Therefore, the player can determine the magnitude of the expected value of each symbol based on the color. The expected value of the symbol will be described later.

  In the slot machine according to the present embodiment, an input signal from the touch panel 69 is handled as an external input. Then, by identifying the symbol display areas 14a to 14j touched by the player, the selected specific symbol can be recognized.

  Moreover, you may comprise each symbol display area 14a-14j of the symbol selection display part 14 by a pushbutton switch. In this case, the symbol display areas 14a to 14j pressed by the player can be determined by detecting the input signal from the push button switch. In this case, the input signal from the push button switch corresponds to an external input.

  If the sub game is executed, the slot machine according to the present embodiment executes the special game a predetermined number of times (step S500).

  In each special game, the slot machine according to the present embodiment starts scrolling symbols in the display areas 28 (28a to 28e), and then stops scrolling, triggered by the spin button 23 being pressed by the player. The symbols are stopped in each display area 28.

  Then, the slot machine according to the present embodiment counts the appearance frequency in the special game for the specific symbol selected in the sub game (step S600).

  In this special game, the appearance frequency of a specific symbol is specifically counted as follows.

  That is, in the slot machine according to the present embodiment, the number of the “PLUM” symbols selected in the sub game rearranged in each display area 28 is counted as the appearance frequency of a specific symbol in the special game. In the slot machine according to the present embodiment, the number of times the “PLUM” symbol selected in the sub game is rearranged (number of games) is counted as the appearance frequency of a specific symbol in the special game. Also good.

  For example, assume that the symbol “PLUM” is selected as a specific symbol. In this case, a prize accompanied with a payout of credit is generated according to the number of symbols “PLUM” rearranged as shown in FIG. However, a prize with payout may be generated by a combination with other symbols. In other words, when a combination including a predetermined number or more of “PLUM” symbols is established, or when a winning combination using “PLUM” symbols is established, a prize with a payout may be generated. Specifically, as a combination for establishing a prize accompanied by paying out credits using the “PLUM” symbols selected in the sub game, a predetermined number (“PLUM” symbols as shown in FIG. For example, a combination including six or more), or a combination in which the winning combination by the symbol “PLUM” is stopped on the payline L as shown in FIG. 16B can be given. Such a special game may be executed simultaneously with the basic game or may be executed alone.

  After the predetermined number of special games are completed, the slot machine according to the present embodiment pays out credits with a payout amount corresponding to the appearance frequency of a specific symbol counted during the special game (step S700), and step S200. Return to and run the basic game.

  In the slot machine according to the present embodiment, the payout amount of credit increases as the number of rearranged specific symbols selected in the sub game and the number of times the specific symbols are rearranged increase. By making the player expect to do so, the player's interest in the game can be improved.

  In the above example, the example in which symbols are stopped and displayed in the display area 28 (28a to 28e) of 5 columns and 3 rows has been described, but the present invention is limited to the display area 28 of 5 columns and 3 rows. It is not a thing.

  In the above example, the liquid crystal display 17 is used to display symbols in each display area 28. As another example, a mechanical rotary reel having a cylindrical shape and a plurality of symbols displayed on the side surface is used, and after rotating the rotary reel, the symbol is stopped inside the display window 15 by stopping. You can also

  In the above example, in the basic game, symbols are scrolled and displayed in the vertical direction with respect to the display areas 28 (28a to 28e), and then the symbols are stopped (rearranged). As another example, the symbols may be changed and displayed (rearranged) in each display area 28 (28a to 28e).

  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 a unit 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.

  Inside the cabinet 11, a liquid crystal display 17 for scrolling symbols in five columns and three rows is provided. The liquid crystal display 17 includes display areas 28 (28a to 28e) for displaying symbols in five columns and three rows. A display window 15 through which the symbols displayed in the display area 28 can be viewed is disposed in front of the display area 28. When the basic game is executed, the symbols are scrolled in the display areas 28 (28a to 28e) in five columns and three rows. The player can visually recognize the scrolled symbol through the display window 15.

  In this embodiment, the display area 28 (28a-28e) of 5 columns and 3 rows of the liquid crystal display 17 is mentioned as an example as a main display. As another example, the symbols may be displayed through the display window 15 by rotating and stopping a mechanical reel displaying the symbols on the side surface. The display area 28 is not limited to 5 columns and 3 rows.

  A lower image display panel 16 is provided above the main door 13 and in front of the liquid crystal display 17. 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 number display unit 31, a payout number display unit 32, and a count value / payout amount display unit 71. The credit amount display unit 31 displays the number of credited coins as an image. In the payout number display section 32, there are a number of coins to be paid out when a combination of symbols stopped on the payline L, which will be described later, is a winning combination, or a combination including a predetermined number (for example, six) or more of predetermined symbols. The number of coins to be paid out when stopped in the display area 28 is displayed as an image. In the count value / payout amount display portion 71, symbols selected in the sub game, their appearance frequency, that is, the number of rearrangements (or the number of rearrangements), and the credit payout according to the appearance frequency. The amount (number) is displayed.

  One payline L is set in the middle of the display window 15 provided in the lower image display panel 16. The payline L defines a symbol combination. When the combination of symbols stopped on the payline L is a winning combination, coins corresponding to the winning combination and the number of coins inserted (BET number) are paid out. The payline L is virtually set and is not actually visually recognized. However, it may be actually drawn on the lower image display panel 16.

  In this embodiment, an example in which one payline L is set will be described. However, for example, three paylines that horizontally cross the upper, middle, and lower stages of the display window 15 may be used. As another example, a payline passing diagonally (V-shaped, inverted V-shaped, etc.) may be formed, and the number of paylines corresponding to the number of coins inserted may be activated. In this case, if the combination of symbols stopped on the activated payline is a winning combination with a payout, the number of coins corresponding to the combination is paid out.

  A symbol selection display unit 14 is provided below the display area 28 of the lower image display panel 16.

  The symbol selection display unit 14 displays all symbols that can be displayed on the display area 28 (28a to 28e) by the liquid crystal display 17, that is, “JACKPOT 7,” “BLUE 7,” “BELL,” “CHERRY”. , “STRAWBERRY”, “PLUM”, “ORANGE”, “APPLE”, “LOBSTER”, and “CRAB” are individually provided with a plurality of symbol display areas 14a to 14j.

  Each of the symbol display areas 14a to 14j can be lit and displayed individually for each of the symbol display areas 14a to 14j by a backlight 14L (see FIG. 8) disposed behind the symbol display areas 14a to 14j.

  Further, a touch panel 69 (see FIG. 8) is provided on the front surface of the lower image display panel 16, and the player can input various instructions by operating the touch panel 69.

  Below the lower image display panel 16, a control panel 20, a coin receiving port 21 for receiving coins into the cabinet 11, and a bill validator 22 are 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 the symbols displayed in the display area 28. 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 the 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, 50) 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 includes a liquid crystal panel, and displays, for example, an effect image, an introduction of game contents, and an explanation of game rules.

  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 symbol rows scrolled in the display areas 28 (28a to 28e) of the liquid crystal display 17. As shown in FIG. 3, in each display area 28 (28a to 28e), a total of 22 symbol columns each having code numbers "00" to "21" are scrolled. The arrangement of the symbols is different for each display area 28 (28a to 28e).

  Symbols displayed in the display areas 28 (28a to 28e) are "JACKPOT 7," "BLUE 7," "BELL," "CHERRY," "STRAWBERRY," "PLUM," "ORANGE," "APPLE," The symbols “LOBSTER” and “CRAB” are combined. A combination with a payout is set by the combination of symbols.

  This combination with payout includes a combination that stops the winning combination on the payline L of the display window 15 and a combination that includes a predetermined number (for example, six) or more of “BELL” symbols.

  The slot machine 10 is set with a payout table for determining a payout amount (payout rate) when a combination with payout is established.

  FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a basic game payout table. This basic game payout table is selected when the basic game is executed alone. When the special game is being executed, a special game payout table to be described later is selected.

  As shown in FIG. 4, when the “APPLE” symbol is stopped on the payline L in the five display areas 28 (28a to 28e), a bonus trigger occurs, and the gaming state shifts from the basic game to the bonus game. .

  Further, when the combination of the symbols “LOBSTER” and “BELL” is stopped on the payline L, 25 coins are paid out. When the “CHERRY” symbol stops on the payline L, 20 coins are paid out. When the “PLUM” symbol stops on the payline L, five coins are paid out. When six “BELL” symbols are stopped in the five display areas 28 (28a to 28e), payout of three coins is performed.

  A bonus game that is played when the combination of the symbols “APPLE” is stopped on the payline L is a gaming state that is more advantageous than the basic game. In this embodiment, the bonus game is a free game (a game that can be played a predetermined number of times without betting coins). In the present invention, the form of the bonus game is not particularly limited as long as it is a game state advantageous to the player. A bonus game advantageous to the player is not particularly limited as long as it is more advantageous than the basic game. For example, a state where more game media can be acquired than the basic game, a state where game media can be acquired with a higher probability than the basic game, a state where the number of game media consumed is lower than the basic game, and the like. Specifically, examples of the bonus game include a free game and a second game.

  The symbols displayed (arranged) in the display areas 28 (28a to 28e) start scrolling when the 1-BET button 26 or the maximum BET button 27 is pressed and then the spin button 23 is pressed. When the scrolling of each symbol is started, the scrolling of each symbol is automatically stopped (rearranged) after a predetermined time has elapsed. At this time, any symbol in the symbol row shown in FIG. 3 stops in each display area 28 (28a to 28e).

  Further, various winning combinations (see FIG. 4) are predetermined for each symbol. When a symbol that becomes a winning combination stops on the payline L, the number of coins paid out according to the winning combination is added to the credits owned by the player. Further, when the bonus game trigger is established, that is, in the present embodiment, when the combination of five “APPLE” symbols is stopped on the payline L, the gaming state shifts from the basic game state to the bonus game gaming state. .

  FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram showing the relationship between symbols selected in the special game and their expected values. In FIG. 5, the number of arrangements indicates the total number of symbols, that is, the total number of symbols set in each symbol row (see FIG. 3). In FIG. 5, the expected payout value is set to “medium” for symbols from “BULE 7” with 7 arrangements to “CHERRY” with 11 arrangements. For symbols with less placement than “medium”, the payout expectation value is set to “small”, and for symbols with more placement than “medium”, the payout expectation value is set to “large”. ing. The expected value of payout indicates the degree of possibility that an award accompanied with a payout of credit will be generated by rearranging the symbols. Therefore, the expected payout value is small for symbols with a small number of arrangements, and the expected payout value is large for symbols with a large number of arrangements. In FIG. 5, for ease of explanation, the expected value is represented by “large”, “medium”, and “small”, but the expected value can be quantified for each symbol. For example, when the expected value of “APPLE” with 10 arrangements is “100”, the expected value of “JACKPOT 7” with 5 arrangements is “50”, and the expected value of “PLUM” with 24 arrangements is “ 240 ".

  As described above, the symbol display areas 14a to 14j are lit and displayed in a color-coded state according to the expected value for each symbol. At this time, the same color is assigned to symbols having the same expected value. For example, the symbol of the expected value “small” is color-coded such as “red”, the symbol of the expected value “medium” is “yellow”, and the symbol of the expected value “large” is “blue”. This color coding is a guide when a player selects a symbol. Therefore, although the probability of payout is low, a player who expects more payout may select the symbol displayed in “red”. Further, although a large amount of payout cannot be obtained, a player who expects a more reliable payout may select the “blue” symbol. In this example, three types of color coding of “red”, “yellow”, and “blue” have been described, but the color may be further finely divided for each expected value.

  In the slot machine of the present invention, the relationship between the symbol selected in the special game and its expected value is not limited to the example of FIG. For example, if the liquid crystal display 17 is used to display symbols in each display area 28, a special symbol having only one arrangement may be set only when a special game is executed. Good.

  FIG. 6A to FIG. 6C are diagrams showing payout tables (special game payout tables) set for each symbol in the special game. This special game payout table is selected when the special game is being executed, and is not selected while the basic game is being executed alone. In the special game payout table, the “count value” is an accumulation of the number of symbols rearranged by the player (the number of symbols) in each display area 28 (28a to 28e). For example, if three symbols selected in the sub game are rearranged in the first special game, the number of symbols is “3”. If two symbols are rearranged in the second special game, the number of symbols is “2”. Therefore, the count value at that time is “5”.

  In the description of the present embodiment, the payout table of “JACKPOT 7” with the expected value “small” (FIG. 6A) and the payout table of “APPLE” with the expected value “medium” (FIG. 6B). And a payout table (FIG. 6C) of “PLUM” with the expected value “large”. Payout tables are also set for symbols not shown in FIG.

  As shown in FIGS. 6 (A) to 6 (C), in “JACKPOT 7” with an expected value “small”, there is a low possibility that an award accompanied with a credit payout will occur. The payout is set to be larger than that of “APPLE” or “PLUM” of the expected value “large”. In addition, “PULM” with an expected value of “large” is more likely to generate a prize with a credit payout. The payout is set to be small.

  Therefore, when the player selects a symbol with a small expected value, the payout probability is low, but more payouts can be expected. In addition, if a symbol with a large expectation value is selected, a lot of payout cannot be obtained, but the probability of payout increases, so that a more reliable payout can be expected. In the slot machine of the present invention, the structure of the payout table set for each symbol is not limited to the examples of FIGS. 6 (A) to 6 (C).

  FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a display example of the count value / payout amount display unit 71. Here, a case where “JACKPOT 7” is selected by the player in the sub game is taken as an example. As shown in FIG. 7, the count value / payout amount display unit 71 displays the “symbol name” selected in the sub game, the “count value” at that time, and the “payout amount” of the credit corresponding to the count value. Is displayed. However, the display contents in the count value / payout amount display unit 71 may include at least “count value” and “payout amount”.

  The payout of the credits by the special game is performed when all the special games are finished. For example, when the special game is played ten times continuously, credits corresponding to the count value at the time when the tenth special game is completed are paid out. Therefore, the player can always recognize the current count value and payout amount during the execution of the special game, and can check the final count value and payout amount when the special game ends. it can. The credit payout by the special game may be performed at the time when each special game is finished.

  For example, when “JACKPOT 7” is selected by the player in the sub game, the special game payout table shown in FIG. 6A is selected. If three symbols selected in the sub game are rearranged in the first special game and two symbols are rearranged in the second special game, the count value is “5” at that time. At this time, the count value / payout display portion 71 displays the count value “5” at the time when the second special game is completed and the credit payout amount “20”. Among these display contents, “count value” and “payout amount” are updated every time one special game is completed. Thus, by updating and displaying the contents every time one special game is completed, the player can accurately grasp the current “count value” and “payout amount”. As a result, the player is expected to require more payouts, and the player's willingness to play can be continued.

  Further, the display of the “count value” and the “payout amount” by the count value / payout amount display unit 71 may be displayed every time the symbols selected by the player are rearranged. In this case, in each special game, if the symbols selected by the player are not rearranged, the “count value” and the “payout amount” are not displayed. Therefore, the player can recognize whether or not the selected symbol has been rearranged, that is, whether or not a payout has occurred due to the selected symbol, based on the presence or absence of display. In addition, when even one selected symbol is rearranged, the count value / payout amount display unit 71 performs display, so that the player is expected to be interested in what numerical value is displayed. The player's willingness to play the game can be continued.

  FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing a control circuit of the slot machine 10 shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 8, the control circuit includes a mother board 40, a main body PCB (Printed Circuit Board) 60, a gaming board 50, a sub CPU 61, a door PCB 80, and various switches, sensors, and other components. ing. The motherboard 40 and the gaming board 50 constitute a controller 48.

  The gaming board 50 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 51, a ROM 55 and a boot ROM 52, a card slot 53S corresponding to a memory card 53, and an IC socket corresponding to a GAL (Generic Array Logic) 54 connected to each other via an internal bus. 54S.

  The memory card 53 stores a game program and a game system program. The game program includes a stop symbol determination program. The stop symbol determination program is a program for determining a symbol (a code number corresponding to a symbol) to be stopped on the payline L of each display area 28 (28a to 28e). This stop symbol determination program includes symbol weighting data corresponding to each of a plurality of types of payout rates (for example, 80%, 84%, 88%). The symbol weighting data includes, for each of the five columns of display areas 28 (28a to 28e), a code number (see FIG. 3) of each symbol and one or a plurality of random values belonging to a predetermined numerical range (0 to 256). It is the data which shows the corresponding relationship.

  The payout rate is determined based on the payout rate setting data output from the GAL 54, and the stop symbol is determined based on the symbol weighting data corresponding to the payout rate.

  The card slot 53S is configured such 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 and game system program into the memory card 53, and inserting the memory card 53 into the card slot 53S, the types of games performed in the slot machine 10 And can change the contents.

  The game program includes a program related to game progress and a program for shifting to a bonus game. The game program includes image data and sound data output during the game.

  The GAL 54 includes a plurality of input ports and output ports. When data is input to the input port, the data corresponding to the data is output from the output port. The data output from this output port is the aforementioned payout rate setting data.

  The IC socket 54S is configured so that the GAL 54 can be attached and detached, and is connected to the mother board 40 by a PCI bus. Therefore, the payout rate setting data output from the GAL 54 can be changed by removing the GAL 54 from the IC socket 54S, rewriting the program stored in the GAL 54, and attaching the GAL 54 to the IC socket 54S.

  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 ROM 55 stores country identification information and an authentication program. The boot ROM 52 stores a preliminary authentication program and a program (boot code) for the CPU 51 to start the preliminary authentication program.

  The authentication program is a program (tamper check program) for authenticating the game program and the game system program. The authentication program is a program for confirming and verifying that the game program and the game system program have not been tampered with. That is, the authentication program is described in accordance with the procedure for authenticating the game program and the game system program. The preliminary authentication program is a program for authenticating the above-described authentication program. The preliminary authentication program is described in accordance with a proof that the authentication program to be authenticated is not falsified, that is, a procedure for authenticating the authentication program.

  The motherboard 40 includes a main CPU 41, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 42, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 43, and a communication interface 44.

  The main CPU 41 has a function of controlling the entire slot machine 10. In particular, when the credit is betted by the player and the spin button 23 is pressed, the main CPU 41 causes the sub CPU 61 to scroll the symbols arranged in the display areas 28 (28a to 28e) of the liquid crystal display 17. Control for outputting a command signal, control for determining a symbol to be stopped at the middle position (on the payline L) after the symbols in the display areas 28 (28a to 28e) are scrolled, and the determined symbol on the payline L Control to display the symbol to stop. Hereinafter, functions of the controller 48 including the main CPU 41 will be described.

  The controller 48 controls execution of a basic game in which a plurality of symbols arranged on the main display (liquid crystal display device 17) is scrolled and rearranged as a new symbol matrix. For this purpose, the controller 48 selects and determines an array symbol in the symbol matrix from among a plurality of types of symbols, and executes rearrangement control that stops at the determined symbol from the scroll state.

  Further, the controller 48 executes control for generating a payout when a basic game is executed and a combination to be paid out is rearranged in each display area 28 (28a to 28e) of the liquid crystal display 17. .

  In addition, the controller 48 controls the execution of a subgame in which a specific symbol with a credit payout is selected by external input. In other words, in order to allow the player to select a specific symbol by a touch operation on the symbol display areas 14a to 14j of the symbol selection display section 14, a backlight that can be divided and flashed for each portion corresponding to each of the symbol display areas 14a to 14j. The lighting control is executed to turn on all 14Ls once at the start of the special game.

  Further, the controller 48 displays one symbol display area touched by the player, for example, a portion corresponding to the “PLUM” symbol display area 14f of the backlight 14L in order to display a specific symbol selected by the player. The lighting control is performed to turn off all portions of the backlight 14L corresponding to the other symbol display areas 14a to 14e and 14g to 14j while the lights are turned on. When the player selects one symbol by a touch operation, the code number (see FIG. 3) of the symbol is stored in the RAM 43.

  Further, the controller 48 scrolls a plurality of symbols arranged on the main display (liquid crystal display 17) after a specific symbol is selected by executing the sub game, and rearranges it as a new symbol matrix. Control execution. For this purpose, rearrangement control is performed in which symbols arranged in the symbol matrix are selected and determined from a plurality of types of symbols, and stopped at the determined symbols from the scroll state.

  Further, the controller 48 executes control for changing the amount of credit payout according to the appearance frequency of a specific symbol selected by the player on the main display (liquid crystal display 17) during a predetermined number of special games. . That is, control is performed so that the amount of credit payout increases as the number of specific symbols rearranged on the main display increases. Alternatively, in a predetermined number of special games, control is performed to increase the amount of credit payout as the number of times that a specific symbol is rearranged on the main display increases.

  In addition, the controller 48, during a predetermined number of special games, the specific symbol selected by the player, the number of rearranged symbols (or the number of rearrangements) on the main display, and the rearranged number. Control for displaying the payout amount of the credit according to (or the number of rearrangements) on the count value / payout amount display unit 71 is executed. Furthermore, these display contents are controlled to be updated and displayed every time each special game is finished or every time a specific symbol is rearranged on the main display.

  In addition, when a specific symbol is a symbol with a small expected payout value in a predetermined number of special games, the controller 48 pays out a credit according to the appearance frequency of the symbol rather than a symbol with a large expected payout value. When a certain symbol is a symbol having a large payout expectation value, the amount of credit payout according to the appearance frequency of the symbol is made smaller than a symbol having a small payout expectation value. To control.

  The ROM 42 stores a program such as a BIOS (Basic Input / Output System) executed by the main CPU 41 and data used permanently. When the BIOS is executed by the main CPU 41, initialization processing of each peripheral device is performed, and reading processing of the game program and game system program stored in the memory card 53 via the gaming board 50 is started. The ROM 42 stores data of the basic game payout table shown in FIG. 4 and data of the special game payout table shown in FIGS. 6 (A) to 6 (C). These data are read according to the game being executed and the symbols selected by the player in the sub game.

  The RAM 43 stores data and programs used when the main CPU 41 performs processing.

  The communication interface 44 is for performing communication with a host computer or the like provided in the gaming facility via a communication line.

  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 (Universal Serial Bus), respectively. Further, a power supply unit 45 is connected to the mother board 40. When power is supplied from the power supply unit 45 to the mother board 40, the main CPU 41 of the mother board 40 is activated, and power is supplied to the gaming board 50 via the PCI bus to activate the CPU 51.

  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 arithmetic processing by executing the game program and game system program stored in the RAM 43 based on the input signal input to the main CPU 41 and stores the result in the RAM 43. As a control process for the device or apparatus, a process for transmitting a control signal to each device or apparatus is performed.

  The main body PCB 60 includes a sub CPU 61, a hopper 66, a coin detector 67, a graphic board 68, a speaker 29, a touch panel 69, a bill validator 22, a ticket printer 35, a card reader 36, and a key switch. 38S, the data display 37, and the backlight 14L are connected.

  The sub CPU 61 controls the scrolling of symbols in the five columns of display areas 28 (28 a to 28 e) set in the liquid crystal display 17, and 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 a scroll image to be displayed on the liquid crystal display 17, and outputs the scroll image to the liquid crystal display 17.

  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 exit 19 and outputs an input signal to the main CPU 41 when it is detected that a predetermined number of coins have been paid out from the coin payout exit 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. That is, on the lower image display panel 16, the symbols displayed in the display areas 28 (28a to 28e), the color-coded display of the symbols in the symbol display areas 14a to 14j of the symbol selection display unit 14, and the backlight. Other image display is controlled except for blinking for each part corresponding to each of the 14L symbol display areas 14a to 14j.

  The number of credits stored in the RAM 43 is displayed on the number-of-credit display unit 31 (not shown in FIG. 8) of the lower image display panel 16. Further, the number of coins to be paid out is displayed on the payout amount display section 32 (not shown in FIG. 8) of the lower image display panel 16. Further, the count value / payout amount display portion 71 (not shown in FIG. 8) of the lower image display panel 16 has a symbol selected in the sub game and the number of rearranged symbols (or the number of rearranged times). ) And the credit payout amount corresponding to this is displayed. The graphic board 68 includes a VDP 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.

  The bill validator 22 reads an image of a bill and accepts a regular bill into the cabinet 11. Moreover, 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 an 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 via the keypad 38 by the player 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 21C 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 genuine. 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 distribute 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, specific processing performed in the slot machine 10 will be described. After performing the authentication process shown in FIG. 1, the slot machine 10 sequentially reads out the game program and the game system program and executes the following basic game. Prior to the execution of the basic game, the controller 48 performs initial settings. In this initial setting, the controller 48 resets the counter M indicating the number of stops in the special game of the specific symbol selected by the player, that is, the count value M of the symbol stop number counter in the RAM 43 to zero. Further, the count value N of the execution number counter of the RAM 43 indicating the number of executions of the special game is reset to zero.

  9 and 10 are flowcharts showing a specific processing procedure of the basic game execution processing shown in step S200 of FIG.

  In the basic game execution process, first, the controller 48 determines whether or not a coin is bet (step S11). In this processing, the controller 48 receives the input signal output from the 1-BET switch 26S when the 1-BET button 26 is pressed by the player or the maximum BET switch 27S when the maximum BET button 27 is pressed by the player. It is determined whether or not an input signal output from is received. If it is determined that no coin is bet by the player, the process returns to step S11.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S11 that a coin has been bet by the player, the controller 48 performs a process of subtracting the number of credits stored in the RAM 43 according to the number of coins bet (step 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. Further, when the number of coins bet exceeds the upper limit value (50 in this embodiment) that can be bet on one game, a process of subtracting the number of credits stored in the RAM 43 is performed. Without proceeding to step S13. In this state, the symbols can be scroll-displayed in the display area 28 (28a to 28e).

  Next, the controller 48 determines whether or not the spin button 23 is turned on by the player (step S13). In this process, the controller 48 determines whether or not an input signal output from the spin switch 23S is received when the spin button 23 is turned on by the player.

  If it is determined that the spin button 23 is not turned on by the player, the process returns to step S11. If the spin button 23 is not turned on by the player (for example, if the player inputs an instruction to end the game without turning on the spin button 23), the controller 48 performs subtraction in step S12. Cancel the result.

  In the present embodiment, after a coin is betted by the player (step S11), the credit number is subtracted (step S12) before determining whether or not the spin button 23 is turned on by the player (step S13). The case of performing will be described. However, the present invention is not limited to this example. For example, after a coin is bet by the player (step S11), it is determined whether or not the spin button 23 is turned on by the player (step S13), and when it is determined that the spin button 23 is turned on by the player (step S13). And YES), a process of subtracting the number of credits (step S12) may be performed.

  If it is determined in step S13 in FIG. 9 that the spin button 23 has been turned on by the player, the controller 48 performs a stop symbol determination process (step S14). In this stop symbol determination process, the controller 48 executes a stop symbol determination program stored in the RAM 43 to display the display window 15 through the display window 15 when the symbols are stopped in the display areas 28 (28a to 28e). Determine the symbol to be played. As a result, a combination of symbols to be stopped on the payline L is determined.

  Next, the controller 48 performs a symbol scroll display process (step S15). In this process, in each display area 28 (28a to 28e), for example, after the symbol scroll as shown in FIG. 17A is started, the symbol determined in step S14 is stopped on the payline L. In this process, symbols are stopped in each display area 28 (28a to 28e).

  Next, the controller 48 determines whether or not a bonus trigger has been established, for example, whether or not a combination of “APPLE” symbols as shown in FIG. Step S16). If it is determined that the bonus trigger has been established, bonus game processing described later is executed (step S17).

  If the bonus trigger is not established, the controller 48 determines whether or not the combination of symbols stopped in each display area 28 is a combination to be paid out as shown in the flowchart of FIG. Judgment is made (step S18).

  Note that the combination of symbols stopped in each display area 28 is a combination to be paid out, for example, as shown in FIGS. 17C and 16B, “BELL” and “ Combinations that stop all “PLUM” symbols and combinations that include a predetermined number of “BELL” symbols (six in FIG. 17D) stop in each display area 28, as shown in FIG. Can be recognized.

  If the combination of symbols stopped in each display area 28 is a combination to be paid out (YES in step S18), the payout amount defined in the basic game payout table in FIG. 4 is applied, Payout processing is executed for the combination of symbols stopped in each display area 28 (step S19).

  Thereafter, the controller 48 determines whether or not a special game start condition is satisfied (step S20).

  The special game start condition is, for example, that the controller 48 generates a random number signal in accordance with the timing when the spin button 23 is turned on by the player by executing a random number generation program included in the basic game execution program. When the random number value defined by the random number signal matches the random number programmed in advance, it can be determined that it has been established.

  If the special game start condition is not satisfied (NO in step S20), the controller 48 ends one basic game execution process and proceeds to the next basic game execution process. On the other hand, if the special game start condition is satisfied (YES in step S20), the controller 48 executes a special game execution process (step S21).

  11 and 12 are flowcharts showing a specific processing procedure of the special game execution processing shown in step S21 of FIG.

  In the special game execution process, first, the controller 48 executes a symbol selection process (step S31). This symbol selection process corresponds to the sub game described in step S400 of FIG. In the symbol selection process, first, as shown in FIG. 18A, the controller 48 turns on all the portions of the backlight 14L and turns on the symbol display areas 14a to 14j of the symbol selection display unit 14. And At this time, each symbol is lit and displayed in a color-coded state according to the expected value. FIG. 18A shows an example in which colors are classified into, for example, “red”, “yellow”, and “blue” in accordance with the expected values “large”, “medium”, and “small” shown in FIG. By lighting and displaying in such a color-coded state, the player can easily identify the expected value of each symbol.

  Next, when the touch operation of the touch panel 69 is performed by the player, the touch position is detected, and the symbol selected by the player is recognized.

  Subsequently, as shown in FIG. 18B, the controller 48 turns off the other part of the backlight 14L except for the part corresponding to the symbol selected by the player. Only the symbol display area 14a (14b to 14j) corresponding to the symbol selected by the player is turned on. In the following description of the present embodiment, it is assumed that the player has selected the “PLUM” symbol.

  Subsequent processing of step S32 to step S36 is the same as step S11 to step S15 of the basic game execution processing shown in FIG.

  In step S <b> 36, after scrolling the symbols and executing processing for stopping the symbols in the display areas 28 (28 a to 28 e), the controller 48 includes the touch panel 69 in the symbols stopped in the display areas 28. It is determined whether or not the “PLUM” symbol selected by the player by the touch operation is included (step S37).

  Then, as shown in FIG. 16C, when the symbol “PLUM” selected by the player is included in the symbols stopped in each display area 28 (YES in step S37), the player selects “ The number of symbols “PLUM” (three in the case of FIG. 16C) is added (integrated) to the count value M of the symbol stop number counter in the RAM 43 (step S38).

  Subsequently, the controller 48 refers to the special game payout table (see FIG. 6C) corresponding to the symbol “PLUM” selected by the player, and the current count value and the payout corresponding to the count value. The amount is acquired and displayed on the count value / payout amount display unit 71 in association with the symbol selected by the player (step S39). The count value / payout amount display process in the present embodiment is performed every time one special game ends. Accordingly, the contents displayed on the count value / payout amount display unit 71 are updated every time one special game is completed.

  Next, the controller 48 increments the count value N of the execution number counter of the RAM 43 indicating the number of executions of the special game by “1” (step S40), and then the count value N of the execution number counter is a predetermined value (in this embodiment). 10), that is, whether or not the special game has been executed a predetermined number of times (in this embodiment, 10 times) is determined (step S41).

  When the count value N of the execution number counter reaches 10 times (YES in step S41), the controller 48 determines that the number of executions of the special game has reached 10 times, and the controller 48 It is determined whether or not a payout has occurred for the selected specific symbol (step S42). If a payout has occurred, a special game payout table (see FIG. 6C) corresponding to the symbol “PLUM” selected by the player is applied, and the count value M of the symbol stop number counter in the RAM 43 is applied. The payout process corresponding to is executed (step S43).

  Then, the controller 48 resets the count value M of the symbol stop count counter in the RAM 43 and the count value N of the execution count counter to zero. Further, as shown in FIG. 18C, all the portions of the backlight 14L are turned off, the symbol display areas 14a to 14j of the symbol selection display unit 14 are turned off (step S44), and the special game is ended. Then, the process again shifts to the basic game execution process.

  When storing the coins to be paid out, the controller 48 adds a predetermined number of credits to the number of credits stored in the RAM 43. When paying out coins, the controller 48 sends a control signal to the hopper 66 to pay out a predetermined number of coins. At this time, the coin detection unit 67 counts the number of coins to be paid out from the hopper 66, and transmits a payout completion signal to the controller 48 when the counted value reaches a designated number. As a result, the controller 48 stops driving the hopper 66 and ends the coin payout process.

  Therefore, in the slot machine 10 of the present embodiment, while the special game start condition is satisfied and a specific symbol (for example, “PLUM”) is selected by the player, the special game is executed 10 times. As the number of the specific symbols rearranged in the display area 28 increases, the amount of credit payout by the symbols increases.

  Next, the stop symbol determination process shown in step S14 of FIG. 9 will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG.

  FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing the procedure of the stop symbol determination process shown in step S14 of FIG. This processing is performed by the controller 48 executing the stop symbol determination program stored in the RAM 43.

  First, the controller 48 executes a random number generation program included in the stop symbol determination program. Then, a random value corresponding to each of the display areas 28 (28a to 28e) of each column is selected from a numerical range of 0 to 255 (step S51).

  Next, the controller 48 refers to the symbol weighting data corresponding to the payout rate setting data output from the GAL 54 and stored in the RAM 43. Based on the selected five random numbers, the code number (see FIG. 3) of each display area 28 (28a to 28e) is determined (step S52).

  The code numbers of the display areas 28 (28a to 28e) correspond to the code numbers of symbols to be stopped and displayed on the payline L. The controller 48 determines the winning combination by determining the code number of each display area 28. For example, when the code number of each display area 28 (28a to 28e) is determined to be “00”, “00”, “00”, “00”, “00”, the controller 48 sets the winning combination to “JACKPOT 7 It will be decided.

  FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing the symbol scroll display process shown in step S15 of FIG. This process is a process performed between the controller 48 and the sub CPU 61.

  First, the controller 48 transmits to the sub CPU 61 a start signal for starting scroll display of symbols in the display area 28 of the liquid crystal display 17 (step S61). Upon receiving the start signal from the controller 48, the sub CPU 61 outputs a symbol scroll display command to the VDP 46. The VDP 46 reads the symbol image data stored in the image data ROM 47 and scrolls the symbols in the five columns of display areas 28 (28a to 28e) of the liquid crystal display 17 (step S71). Thus, symbol scrolling is started in each of the five columns of display areas 28 (28a to 28e).

  In step S61 shown in FIG. 14, the controller 48 transmits a start signal to the sub CPU 61, and then performs an effect at the time of symbol scrolling (step S62). This process is performed for a period of time (for example, 3 seconds) determined according to the result of the stop symbol determination process (step S14 in FIG. 9) or the like. This is a process for performing output and the like.

  Next, the controller 48 determines whether or not it is a timing to instruct to stop scrolling (step S63 in FIG. 13).

  If it is determined in step S63 that it is not time to instruct to stop scrolling, the process returns to step S63, and the effect at the time of scrolling is continuously performed. If it is determined in step S63 that it is time to instruct to stop scrolling, the controller 48 transmits the code number of the symbol stored in the RAM 43 to the sub CPU 61 (step S64). When the sub CPU 61 receives the code number of the symbol from the controller 48, the sub CPU 61 determines the stop position of the scroll so as to correspond to the code number (step S72).

  Thereafter, scroll stop processing is performed, and the symbols are stopped and displayed in the display areas 28 (28a to 28e) (step S73). Moreover, the display process of the effect image by the controller 48 is completed (step S65).

  FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing the bonus game process shown in step S17 of FIG. In the bonus game process, first, the controller 48 sets the number of executions T of the bonus game to 10 to 10 based on the random number value obtained by executing the random number generation program included in the stop symbol determination program stored in the RAM 43. A determination is made from 25 games (step S81). The controller 48 stores the data of the determined bonus game number T in the RAM 43.

  Next, the controller 48 performs a stop symbol determination process (step S82) and a symbol scroll display process (step S83). The process in step S82 is substantially the same as the process described with reference to FIG. Further, the process in step S83 is substantially the same process as described with reference to FIG. Since these processes have already been described, description thereof will be omitted.

  Next, in FIG. 15, the controller 48 determines whether or not a bonus game trigger has been established, that is, whether or not the combination of “APPLE” has stopped on the payline L formed in the display area 28 (28a to 28e). Is determined (step S84). If it is determined that a bonus game trigger has been established (YES in step S84), a bonus game repeat count t is newly determined (step S85). Then, the determined number of repetitions t is added to the current bonus game number T (step S86). As a result, if the bonus game is won again during the bonus game, the remaining number of bonus games increases.

  If the bonus game trigger is not established, the controller 48 determines whether or not the combination to be paid out has stopped in each display area 28 (step S87).

  The combination of payout targets stopped in each display area 28 is that the winning combinations “BELL”, “CHERRY”, and “PLUM” defined in the basic game payout table in FIG. This can be determined by the fact that it has been established or the combination including a predetermined number (for example, six) or more of “BELL” symbols has stopped in each display area 28.

  If it is determined that the combination subject to payout has stopped in each display area 28 (YES in step S87), the controller 48 pays out coins according to the number of coins inserted and the winning combination (step S88). . At this time, payout is performed based on the basic game payout table shown in FIG.

  When the process of step S86 or S88 is executed, or when it is determined in step S87 that the combination to be paid out is not stopped in each display area 28 (when it is determined that it is lost), the controller 48 reads the number T of bonus games stored in the RAM 43 and subtracts “1” from the value of the read number T of games. Then, the subtracted game number T is stored again in the RAM 43 (step S89).

  Next, the controller 48 determines whether or not the number T of bonus games has reached the number determined in step S81 (step S90). Specifically, the determination is made based on whether or not the number of games T stored in the RAM 43 has become zero. If the number of games T is not zero, that is, the number of times the bonus game has been executed has reached the number determined in step S81. If it is determined that the process has not been performed, the process returns to step S82 to repeat the above-described process.

  On the other hand, if the number of games T is 0, that is, if it is determined that the number of executions of the bonus game has reached the number of games T determined in step S81, the process ends. In this way, a bonus game is played.

  As described above, in the slot machine 10 according to the present embodiment, as the number of rearranged specific symbols selected by the player in 10 special games increases, the amount of credit payout by the specific symbols increases. It will be. Accordingly, the player's interest in the game can be improved by expecting the player to receive more credit payout depending on the number of the specific symbols selected by the player.

  Further, in the slot machine 10 according to the present embodiment, when a specific symbol selected by the player is a symbol with a small expected payout value, the number of symbols rearranged is larger than a symbol with a large expected payout value. If the specific symbol selected by the player is a symbol with a large expected payout value, the symbols are rearranged rather than a symbol with a small expected payout value. Control is made to reduce the amount of credit payout according to the number. According to this, when the player selects a symbol with a small expected value, the probability of payout is low, but depending on the number of symbols rearranged, more credit payout can be received. In this way, a player who likes a game with higher gambling characteristics can be expected to receive more credit payouts, so that the player's interest in the game can be improved. In addition, when the player selects a symbol with a large expected value, the payout probability increases, so that credit payout can be received more reliably. Thus, a player who does not like a highly gambling game can be expected to have a more reliable payout, so that the player's interest in the game can be improved.

  Further, in the slot machine 10 according to the present embodiment, the display content on the count value / payout amount display unit 71 is updated every time one special game is finished, so that the player can count the current “count” It is possible to accurately grasp the “value” and the “payout amount”. As a result, the player is expected to require more payouts, and the player's willingness to play can be continued.

  Further, when the display contents in the count value / payout amount display unit 71 are updated every time the symbol selected by the player is rearranged, the player determines whether the selected symbol is rearranged, In other words, whether or not a payout has occurred due to the selected symbol can be recognized by the presence or absence of display. In addition, since the display is performed when even one selected symbol is rearranged, the player is expected to be interested in what numerical value is displayed, and the player's motivation for the game is continued. You can give it away.

  In the present embodiment, the case where the specified number of special games is 10 has been described. In this case, every time the special game is executed 10 times, the symbol selected by the player, the count value so far, and the like are automatically reset. Therefore, if the previous player leaves the game in the middle of 10 special games, the next player continues the remaining special games with the symbols and count values selected by the previous player. Now, if the previous player is selecting symbols with the expectation of more payouts, and the next player is expecting more certain payouts, the next player will have the remaining You will have to continue the game. In addition, even the same player may want to select symbols with different expected values during the special game. In this case, the player must continue the remaining game under conditions that do not meet his / her wishes. Therefore, a reset button is provided on the control panel 20, and when the reset button is pressed, the count value M of the symbol stop count counter and the count value N of the execution count counter stored in the RAM 43 are erased. You can also With this configuration, the player can execute the special game under the conditions desired by the player regardless of the specified number of special games.

  Further, in the slot machine 10 according to the present embodiment, an example of controlling to increase the credit payout amount as the number of specific symbols selected by the player rearranged in the display area 28 increases. explained. As another embodiment, the credit payout amount may be controlled to increase as the number of times the specific symbol selected by the player is rearranged in the display area 28 increases. In this case, since the appearance frequency of the symbols is counted by the number of games, the count value is “1” no matter how many symbols selected by the player are rearranged in one special game. Therefore, even when 10 special games are executed, the maximum count value is “10”. In this case, even if the symbol has a small expected value, the count value is “1” if the number of rearranged symbols is one. For this reason, if the count value is the same, the payout amount of the symbol with a small expected value is larger. Therefore, by selecting a symbol with a small expected value, the probability of receiving more credit payout increases. The player's interest in can be further improved.

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

  For example, the controller 48 of the present invention can be configured by a CPU that performs processing according to a program, such as the controller 48 of the motherboard 40 and the CPU 51 of the gaming board 50 in the slot machine 10 of the present embodiment. Alternatively, a part of the controller 48 may be configured by a custom IC (Integrated Circuit) such as an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) or a DSP (Digital Signal Processor).

4 is a flowchart schematically showing a playing method of the slot machine according to the embodiment of the present invention. It is a perspective view showing the appearance of the slot machine according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 26 is an explanatory diagram showing a symbol row and a code number of each symbol displayed in each display region of the slot machine according to the embodiment of the present invention; It is explanatory drawing which shows the payout table for basic games. It is explanatory drawing which shows the relationship between the symbol selected in a special game, and its expected value. (A) thru | or (C) is explanatory drawing which shows the payout table for special games. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of a display of a count value / payout amount display part. FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a control circuit of the slot machine according to the embodiment of the present invention. 21 is a flowchart showing a part of a procedure of basic game execution processing executed in the slot machine according to the embodiment of the present invention. It is a flowchart which shows a part of other procedure of the basic game execution process performed with the slot machine which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. 21 is a flowchart showing a part of a procedure of special game execution processing executed in the slot machine according to the embodiment of the present invention. It is a flowchart which shows a part of other procedure of the special game execution process performed with the slot machine concerning one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the stop symbol determination process performed with the slot machine which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. 21 is a flowchart showing a procedure of symbol scroll display processing executed in the slot machine according to the embodiment of the present invention. 21 is a flowchart showing a procedure of bonus game processing executed in the slot machine according to the embodiment of the present invention. (A) is an explanatory view showing a display example when a combination including a predetermined number or more of specific symbols is rearranged, and (B) is an explanation showing a display example when a winning combination by a specific symbol is stopped on the payline. FIG. 4C is an explanatory diagram showing a display example when a specific symbol is included in symbols stopped in the display area. (A) is an explanatory view showing a display example when symbols are scrolled, (B) is an explanatory view showing a display example when a winning combination by a specific symbol is stopped on the payline, and (C) is a specific view on the payline. FIG. 6D is an explanatory diagram illustrating a display example when a winning combination by symbols is stopped, and FIG. 8D is an explanatory diagram illustrating a display example when a combination including a predetermined number of specific symbols is stopped in each display area. (A) is explanatory drawing which shows the example of a display when each symbol display area is made into a lighting state in a symbol selection display part, (B) is explanatory drawing which shows the example of a display after the symbol selection by a player in a symbol selection display part, (C) is explanatory drawing which shows the example of a display of the symbol selection display part at the time of completion | finish of a special game.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 ... Slot machine 14 ... Symbol selection display part 14a-14j ... Symbol display area 17 ... Liquid crystal display 20 ... Control panel 28 ... Display area 40 ... Motherboard 41 ... Main CPU
42 ... ROM
43 ... RAM
48 ... Controller 50 ... Gaming board 60 ... Main body PCB
61 ... Sub CPU

Claims (18)

In the unit game, a main display on which a plurality of arranged symbols are rearranged,
A sub-display that displays the appearance frequency of a specific symbol and the payout amount of credit according to the appearance frequency;
When a sub game for selecting a specific symbol from the plurality of symbols by external input is executed, a special game as a unit game is executed a predetermined number of times after the sub game, and the specific game in the special game is executed. The amount of credit payout is changed according to the appearance frequency of the symbol on the main display, and the appearance frequency of the specific symbol on the main display and the credit payout amount according to the appearance frequency are displayed on the sub-display. A controller to display,
A slot machine comprising:   2. The slot according to claim 1, wherein the controller increases a credit payout amount in response to an increase in the number of the specific symbols rearranged on the main display during the special game. Machine.   2. The slot according to claim 1, wherein the controller increases a credit payout amount in response to an increase in the number of times the specific symbol is rearranged on the main display during the special game. Machine. In the unit game, a main display on which a plurality of arranged symbols are rearranged,
A sub-display that displays the appearance frequency of a specific symbol and the payout amount of credit according to the appearance frequency;
When a sub game for selecting a specific symbol from the plurality of symbols by external input is executed, a special game as a unit game is executed a predetermined number of times after the sub game, and the specific game in the special game is executed. When the payout amount of credit is changed according to the appearance frequency of the symbol on the main display, and the specific symbol is a symbol having a small expected payout value, the appearance of the symbol is higher than a symbol having a large expected payout value. When the amount of credit payout is increased according to the frequency and the specific symbol is a symbol with a large expected value of payout, the amount of credit payout according to the appearance frequency of the symbol than the symbol with a small expected value of payout And the specific symbol And frequency to the main display, and a controller for displaying a payout amount of the credit in accordance with the frequency of occurrence in the sub display,
A slot machine comprising:   5. The slot according to claim 4, wherein the controller increases a credit payout amount in accordance with an increase in the number of the specific symbols rearranged on the main display during the special game. Machine.   5. The slot according to claim 4, wherein the controller increases a credit payout amount in response to an increase in the number of times the specific symbol is rearranged on the main display during the special game. Machine. In the unit game, a main display on which a plurality of arranged symbols are rearranged,
A sub-display that displays the appearance frequency of a specific symbol and the payout amount of credit according to the appearance frequency;
When a sub game for selecting a specific symbol from the plurality of symbols by external input is executed, a special game as a unit game is executed a predetermined number of times after the sub game, and the specific game in the special game is executed. When the payout amount of credit is changed according to the appearance frequency of the symbol on the main display, and the specific symbol is a symbol having a small expected payout value, the appearance of the symbol is higher than a symbol having a large expected payout value. When the amount of credit payout is increased according to the frequency and the specific symbol is a symbol with a large expected value of payout, the amount of credit payout according to the appearance frequency of the symbol than the symbol with a small expected value of payout In addition, the end of each special game Every time or each time the specific symbol is rearranged on the main display, the appearance frequency of the specific symbol on the main display and the credit payout amount corresponding to the appearance frequency are updated, A controller to be displayed on the display;
A slot machine comprising:   The slot according to claim 7, wherein the controller increases a credit payout amount in accordance with an increase in the number of the specific symbols rearranged on the main display during the special game. Machine.   8. The slot according to claim 7, wherein the controller increases a credit payout amount in accordance with an increase in the number of times the specific symbol is rearranged on the main display during the special game. Machine. Rearranging a plurality of arranged symbols on a main display based on control of a controller in a unit game;
When a sub-game for selecting a specific symbol from the plurality of symbols by external input is executed, a special game as a unit game is executed a predetermined number of times after the sub-game based on the control of the controller, Changing the payout amount of the credit based on the control of the controller according to the appearance frequency of the specific symbol on the main display in the special game;
Displaying an appearance frequency of the specific symbol on the main display and a payout amount of credit according to the appearance frequency on a sub-display based on the control of the controller;
A method for playing a slot machine, comprising:   11. The slot according to claim 10, wherein the controller increases a credit payout amount in accordance with an increase in the number of the specific symbols rearranged on the main display during the special game. How to play the machine.   11. The slot according to claim 10, wherein the controller increases a credit payout amount in response to an increase in the number of times the specific symbol is rearranged on the main display during the special game. How to play the machine. Rearranging a plurality of arranged symbols on a main display based on control of a controller in a unit game;
When a sub-game for selecting a specific symbol from the plurality of symbols by external input is executed, a special game as a unit game is executed a predetermined number of times after the sub-game based on the control of the controller, Changing the payout amount of the credit based on the control of the controller according to the appearance frequency of the specific symbol on the main display in the special game;
When the specific symbol is a symbol with a small expected payout value, based on the control of the controller, the amount of credit payout according to the appearance frequency of the symbol is increased more than a symbol with a large expected payout value, When the specific symbol is a symbol having a large payout expectation value, the credit payout amount corresponding to the appearance frequency of the symbol is less than a symbol having a small payout expectation value based on the control of the controller. When,
Displaying an appearance frequency of the specific symbol on the main display and a payout amount of credit according to the appearance frequency on a sub-display based on the control of the controller;
A method for playing a slot machine, comprising:   14. The slot according to claim 13, wherein the controller increases a credit payout amount in response to an increase in the number of the specific symbols rearranged on the main display during the special game. How to play the machine.   14. The slot according to claim 13, wherein the controller increases a credit payout amount in response to an increase in the number of times the specific symbol is rearranged on the main display during the special game. How to play the machine. Rearranging a plurality of arranged symbols on a main display based on control of a controller in a unit game;
When a sub-game for selecting a specific symbol from the plurality of symbols by external input is executed, a special game as a unit game is executed a predetermined number of times after the sub-game based on the control of the controller, Changing the payout amount of the credit based on the control of the controller according to the appearance frequency of the specific symbol on the main display in the special game;
When the specific symbol is a symbol with a small expected payout value, based on the control of the controller, the amount of credit payout according to the appearance frequency of the symbol is increased more than a symbol with a large expected payout value, When the specific symbol is a symbol having a large payout expectation value, the credit payout amount corresponding to the appearance frequency of the symbol is made smaller than a symbol having a small payout expectation value based on the control of the controller. When,
Each time the special game ends or each time the specific symbol is rearranged on the main display, the frequency of appearance of the specific symbol on the main display and the frequency of appearance are determined based on the control of the controller. Updating the credit payout amount and displaying it on the sub-display;
A method for playing a slot machine, comprising:   The slot according to claim 16, wherein the controller increases a credit payout amount in response to an increase in the number of the specific symbols rearranged on the main display during the special game. How to play the machine.   The slot according to claim 16, wherein the controller increases a credit payout amount in response to an increase in the number of times the specific symbol is rearranged on the main display during the special game. How to play the machine.

Images