JP2008188034A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine which enables players to enjoy games for a longer period of time and allows the using up of point values up to the end of the bonus game. <P>SOLUTION: The game machine is provided with a mini-game execution means which executes a mini-game awarded with point values during a period in which a special game more advantageous for the players as compared with the normal game, a bonus game execution means which executes bonus games enabling the consumption of point values to be carried out after the end of the mini-game and an announcement means which announces ending conditions for ending the bonus game during the game when the point values are consumed exceeding prescribed counts. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2008,JPO&INPIT

Description

The present invention relates to a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine or a pachislot gaming machine.

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, there are game systems that cumulatively accumulate point values and game value information (for example, information corresponding to medals and coins) acquired by a game on a game card or a server on a network (for example, Patent Documents 1 to 3) ). In such a game system, for example, a player can accumulate point values cumulatively, exchange the point values for desired prizes, or use game value information for later games. .

In recent years, a mini game for acquiring point values during a special game period that is advantageous to the player as compared to a normal game is performed, and the bonus value (for example, There is a gaming machine that can be used in a free game. In such a gaming machine, when the bonus game ends, the acquired point value disappears.

JP 2002-331161 A JP 2002-143374 A Japanese translation of PCT publication No. 2001-506031

However, in the gaming machine described above, when the bonus game ends, the acquired point value disappears, and thus the point value may not be used up until the bonus game ends. In such a case, since the remaining point value disappears, the player feels lost, and there is a problem that the game cannot be fully enjoyed.

The present invention has been made in view of the above-described problems, and an object of the present invention is to make it possible to use up point values by the end of a bonus game and to make a player enjoy a game for a longer time. It is to provide a possible gaming machine.

In order to achieve the above object, the present invention provides the following.
(1) Mini-game execution means for executing a mini-game to which a point value can be given during a period in which a special game that is a game advantageous to the player compared to a normal game is being performed;
Bonus game execution means for executing a bonus game that is performed after the mini-game ends and can consume the point value;
A gaming machine comprising: an informing means for informing an end condition, which is a condition for ending the bonus game, when a predetermined number or more of the point values are consumed in the bonus game.

According to the invention of (1), when a predetermined number or more of point values are consumed in the bonus game executed after the mini game ends, an end condition that is a condition for ending the bonus game is notified. When a predetermined number or more of point values are consumed in the bonus game, the end condition of the bonus game is notified, so that the player can operate so as not to establish the end condition based on the content of the notification. Therefore, the player can enjoy the game for a longer time by using the point value, and can increase the enjoyment of the game, such as acquiring more currency values.

Furthermore, the present invention provides the following.
(2) The gaming machine of (1) above,
Provided with a display means capable of displaying and stopping the identification information in a variable manner,
The notifying means may stop displaying specific identification information after the identification information is displayed in a variable manner on the display means when the point value is consumed more than a predetermined number in the bonus game. It is characterized by notifying.

According to the invention of (2), it is notified that the end condition is that the specific identification information is stopped and displayed after the identification information (for example, the symbol of the slot machine) is variably displayed on the display means. Therefore, the player can perform an operation so that the specific identification information is not stopped and displayed.

Furthermore, the present invention provides the following.
(3) The gaming machine of (1) or (2) above,
Point value adding means for accumulatively storing the above point values in portable storage means carried by the player or in an external management device;
And a reading means for reading the point value stored in the portable storage means or the management device.

According to the invention of (3), the point value is cumulatively stored in a portable storage means (for example, a magnetic card) or an external management device, and the stored point value is read by the reading means. Therefore, the point values that have not been used up can be accumulated. In addition, the point value acquired in the past can be consumed in subsequent games.

According to the present invention, the point value can be used up by the end of the bonus game, and the player can enjoy the game for a longer time.

One embodiment in which a gaming machine of the present invention is applied to a pachislot gaming device will be described with reference to the drawings.
FIG. 1 is a perspective view schematically showing a pachislot gaming device according to the present embodiment. FIG. 2 is a diagram schematically illustrating an example of an image displayed on the liquid crystal display device.

In the pachi-slot gaming device 1 according to the present embodiment, when a predetermined prize (three symbols “7” are stopped and displayed in the present embodiment) is established during normal game, A special game advantageous to the player as compared with the game is executed.

In the special game, a process for determining whether or not to generate a mini game is performed. If it is determined that a mini game is to be generated in this process, the mini game is executed. In the mini game, point values are awarded according to established prizes. When a game card is inserted by the player, data relating to the point value given to the game card is accumulated.

When the mini game ends, a bonus game is executed. In the bonus game, the player can consume the point value acquired in the mini game, and the number of bonus games is determined according to the point value consumed by the player. This bonus game has an end condition, and the bonus game ends when the end condition is satisfied regardless of whether or not the bonus game has been exhausted for the number of times determined according to the point value consumed by the player. Is done. When the player consumes a predetermined number of point values or more in the bonus game, the end condition is notified during the bonus game. For example, when three symbols with an end condition “cherry” are stopped and displayed, and the player has consumed a predetermined number of point values or more, as shown in FIG. And the bonus image is over "is displayed. The player can perform an operation based on the content of the notification so that the end condition is not satisfied.
It should be noted that the data relating to the point value that has not been used up in the bonus game is stored in the player's game card, so that it can be consumed in subsequent games.

Next, the pachislot gaming device 1 according to the present embodiment will be described.
The pachislot gaming device 1 corresponds to the gaming machine of the present invention. The gaming machine of the present invention is not limited to this example, and examples thereof include a pachinko gaming machine and a slot machine. Further, the pachislot gaming device 1 can play a game using a game medium such as a coin, medal, token, or the like, a card that is given to the player or stores information on the game value to be given. In the following description, it is assumed that a medal is used.

As shown in FIG. 1, a liquid crystal display device 5 is installed on the front surface of the housing 2 that forms the entire pachislot gaming device 1. The liquid crystal display device 5 includes a transparent liquid crystal panel 34 (not shown). The transparent liquid crystal panel 34 can be partially or entirely switched to a transparent / non-transparent state, and has an image. Can be displayed.
The liquid crystal display device 5 functions as display means in the present invention.
In the present embodiment, the case where the liquid crystal display device 5 as a display unit is provided on the front surface of the rotating reel 3 will be described. However, in the present invention, the position where the display unit is provided is not particularly limited. Absent.

In addition, three rotary reels 3L, 3C, and 3R are provided on the back side of the liquid crystal display device 5. Each of the three rotating reels 3L, 3C, and 3R has identification information such as a plurality of symbols displayed on the outer peripheral surface thereof, and is provided in a horizontal row so as to be rotatable.

A pedestal portion 10 having a horizontal surface is formed below the liquid crystal display device 5. A medal slot 22 is provided on the right side of the pedestal portion 10, and a 1-BET switch 11 is provided on the left side of the pedestal portion 10. Further, a maximum BET switch 13 and a point value consumption switch 93 for inputting a point value consumed in the bonus game are provided.

A card reader 92 for inserting a game card carried by the player is provided on the left side of the front surface of the pedestal unit 10. The game card stores ID data for identifying the player and point values given in the mini game. The game card corresponds to the portable storage means in the present invention.
Based on a signal from the main CPU 41 (see FIG. 5), the card reader 92 reads ID data and data related to the point value, and writes data related to the point value newly acquired by the player.

On the right side of the card reader 92, there is provided a stored medal settlement switch 14 that switches credit / payout of medals earned by the player in the game by a push operation.
When “payout” is selected by switching the stored medal settlement switch 14, medals are paid out from the medal payout opening 15 at the lower front, and the paid out medals are stored in the medal receiving unit 16. On the other hand, when “credit” is selected, the number of medals is stored as a credit in a memory (for example, a RAM 43 described later) provided in the pachislot gaming apparatus 1.

A start lever 6 for rotating the rotating reels 3L, 3C, and 3R by a player's operation is attached to the right side of the stored medal settlement switch 14 so as to be rotatable within a predetermined angle range. Three stop buttons 7L, 7C, and 7R for stopping the rotation of the three rotary reels 3L, 3R, and 3C are provided at the center of the front surface of the pedestal unit 10.

An enter button 26 and a cancel button 27 are provided on the right side of the front portion of the base 10. By operating the enter button 26 and the cancel button 27, the display screen of the liquid crystal display device 5 can be switched, an instruction can be input, and the like.
On the right side of the front surface of the pedestal 10, there is further provided a door opening / closing and stopping release device 29. The door opening / closing and hitting release device 29 opens and closes the front door by turning it clockwise using a predetermined key, and releases the hitting by turning it counterclockwise.

Speakers 21L and 21R are provided on the left and right above the housing 2. Between the two speakers 21L and 21R, a payout table panel 23 showing a combination of winning symbols, a payout number of medals, and the like is provided. ing.

As shown in FIG. 2, on the back side of the liquid crystal display device 5, three rotating reels 3 (3L, 3C and 3R) each having a plurality of identification information symbols drawn on their outer peripheral surfaces are rotatable. It is provided in a horizontal row.

The liquid crystal display device 5 includes a front panel 31 and a transparent liquid crystal panel 34 (not shown) provided on the back surface of the front panel 31. The front panel 31 includes a transparent display window 31a and a pattern formation region 31b on which a pattern is drawn. An image displayed on the transparent liquid crystal panel 34 provided on the back surface of the front panel 31 is displayed on the front panel 31. Visible through the window 31a.

On the back side of the left side of the liquid crystal display device 5 are a game start display lamp 25, a WIN lamp 17, a medal insertion lamp 24, various BET lamps 9c, 2-BET lamps 9b and 1-BET lamps 9a, and the number of payouts. Various display units such as a display unit 18, a point value display unit 19, and an accessory operation frequency display unit 20 are provided. In addition, in the pattern formation area 31b of the front panel 31, the front portions of the various lamps and the various display units described above are transparent, and the various lamps and the various display units can be visually recognized.

The 1-BET lamp 9a, the 2-BET lamp 9b, and the maximum BET lamp 9c are turned on according to the number of medals betted to play a game (hereinafter also referred to as a BET number).

The WIN lamp 17 is turned on with a predetermined probability when a special game is won internally, and is also turned on when a special game is won. The game medal insertion lamp 24 blinks when the medal insertion is acceptable. The game start display lamp 25 is lit when at least one line is activated.

The payout number display unit 18 displays the number of medals paid out when the winning is established, the point value display unit 19 displays a consumable point value, and the accessory operation number display unit 20 The number of possible RB games and the number of possible RB game winnings are displayed. These display units are composed of a 7-segment display.

FIG. 2 shows that three symbols whose bonus game end condition is “Cherry” are stopped and displayed, and the end condition is notified when the player has consumed a predetermined number of point values or more. 7 shows an example of an image displayed on the liquid crystal display device 5. The symbols are stopped and displayed on the rotating reel 3L, but the symbols are variably displayed on the rotating reels 3C and 3R. In the drawing, the downward arrows indicate that the rotating reels 3C and 3R are rotating.
The end condition of the bonus game in the present embodiment is that three specific identical symbols are stopped and displayed. In the present embodiment, when one rotating reel 3 stops, it can be visually confirmed that three symbols are stopped and displayed vertically through the display window 31a. The symbol that is stopped and displayed is referred to as “the symbol that is stopped and displayed”.
The timing at which the end condition is notified is when the symbol first stopped and displayed among the symbols drawn on the three rotating reels 3 is a specific symbol.
For example, in FIG. 2, the symbol that is first stopped and displayed (the symbol that is stopped and displayed in the middle stage among the three symbols that are visible through the display window 31a of the stopped rotating reel 3L) satisfies the end condition. Since the symbol is “Cherry” which is one of the symbols that need to be stopped and displayed, a notification image 98 “The bonus game will end when the cherries are aligned” is displayed.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view illustrating a schematic configuration of a liquid crystal display device included in the pachislot gaming apparatus illustrated in FIG. 1. 4 is a development view of a part of the configuration of the liquid crystal display device shown in FIG.
The liquid crystal display device 5 includes a front panel 31 composed of a protective glass 32 and a display plate 33, a transparent liquid crystal panel 34, a light guide plate 35, a reflective film 36, fluorescent lamps 37a, 37b, 38a, 38b which are so-called white light sources, The lamp holders 39a to 39h and a table carrier package (TCP) on which an IC for driving a transparent liquid crystal panel is mounted. The TCP is formed by a flexible substrate (not shown) connected to a terminal portion of the transparent liquid crystal panel 34. Composed.

The liquid crystal display device 5 is provided in front of the rotating reels 3L, 3C, and 3R. The rotating reels 3L, 3C, and 3R and the liquid crystal display device 5 are provided with a predetermined interval.

The protective glass 32 and the display board 33 are comprised with the transparent member. On the display board 33, patterns and the like are formed at positions corresponding to the BET lamps 9a to 9c. That is, the area where the pattern or the like of the display board 33 is formed is the pattern formation area 31b of the front panel 31, and the area where the pattern or the like of the display board 33 is not formed is the display window 31a of the front panel 31. (See FIG. 2). The entire surface of the front panel 31 may be used as the display window 31a without forming the pattern forming area 31b on the front panel 31. In this case, a pattern is not formed on the display board 33 or the display board 33 may be omitted.
Note that various lamps arranged on the back side of the display plate 33, electric circuits for operating the various display units, and the like are not shown.

The transparent liquid crystal panel 34 is formed by sealing liquid crystal in a gap between a transparent substrate such as a glass plate on which a thin film transistor layer is formed and a transparent substrate facing the transparent substrate.
The display mode of the transparent liquid crystal panel 34 is set to normally white. The normally white is a configuration in which white display is performed (light transmitted to the display surface side is visible from the outside) in a state where the liquid crystal is not driven. By adopting a normally white transparent liquid crystal panel 34, even if a situation where the liquid crystal cannot be driven occurs, identification information such as symbols displayed on the rotating reels 3L, 3C and 3R The variable display and stop display can be visually recognized, and the game can be continued. That is, even when such a situation occurs, it is possible to play a game centered on the variation display mode and the stop display mode of the identification information displayed on the rotating reels 3L, 3C, and 3R.

The light guide plate 35 is for guiding light from the fluorescent lamps 37a and 37b to the transparent liquid crystal panel 34 (illuminating the transparent liquid crystal panel 34), and is provided on the back side of the transparent liquid crystal panel 34. It is composed of a transparent member (having a light guiding function) such as an acrylic resin having a thickness.

The reflective film 36 is, for example, a white polyester film or an aluminum thin film formed with a silver vapor deposition film, and reflects light introduced into the light guide plate 35 toward the front side of the light guide plate 35. The reflective film 36 includes a reflective area 36A and a non-reflective area (transmissive area) 36B.

The fluorescent lamps 37a and 37b are disposed along the upper end and the lower end of the light guide plate 35, and both ends are supported by a lamp holder 39 (see FIG. 3). The light emitted from the fluorescent lamps 37a and 37b is reflected by the reflection area 36A of the reflection film 36 to illuminate the transparent liquid crystal panel 34.

The fluorescent lamps 38a and 38b are arranged toward the rotary reels 3L, 3C, and 3R at an upper position and a lower position on the back side of the reflection film 36, respectively. The light coming out of the fluorescent lamps 38a and 38b, reflected by the surfaces of the rotating reels 3L, 3C and 3R and incident on the non-reflective region 36B illuminates the transparent liquid crystal panel 34.

As described above, in the liquid crystal display device 5, the light irradiated from the fluorescent lamps 37a and 37b and reflected from the reflection area 36A of the reflective film 36 and the light irradiated from the fluorescent lamps 38a and 38b, the rotation reels 3L, 3C and 3R The light reflected from the surface and incident on the non-reflective region 36B illuminates the transparent liquid crystal panel 34.
Accordingly, the region of the liquid crystal display device 5 corresponding to the non-reflective region 36B of the reflective film 36 is a region that switches to a transparent / non-transparent state depending on whether or not the liquid crystal is driven. The region of the liquid crystal display device corresponding to is in a non-transparent state regardless of whether or not the liquid crystal is driven.

In the pachislot gaming device 1, only a part of the liquid crystal display device is a region that switches to a transparent / non-transparent state. In the gaming machine of the present invention, the display screen of the liquid crystal display device is entirely transparent. / A region that switches to a non-transparent state may be used. In this case, in the pachislot gaming device 1, when the entire area of the liquid crystal display device 5 is an area to be switched to the transmission state or the non-transmission state, the reflection film 36 is all set to the non-reflection area 36 </ b> B or the reflection film 36 is omitted. Good.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing an internal configuration of the pachislot gaming device shown in FIG.
The main control circuit 81 has a microcomputer 40 disposed on a circuit board as a main component. The microcomputer 40 includes a CPU 41 that performs a control operation according to a preset program, a ROM 42, and a RAM 43. Connected to the CPU 41 are a clock pulse generation circuit 144 and a frequency divider 145 for setting a reference clock pulse, and a random number generator 146 and a sampling circuit 147 for generating a random number to be sampled. In addition, as a means for random number sampling, you may comprise so that the sampling of a random number may be performed on the operation | movement program of CPU41.

The ROM 42 stores various control commands (commands) to be transmitted to the sub control circuit 82. As the command, for example, a command related to display control for the liquid crystal display device 5 is stored.

Examples of commands related to display control for the liquid crystal display device 5 include an effect start command, an end effect command, and the like.
The effect start command is a command for causing the liquid crystal display device 5 to display an effect image when the rotation of the three rotary reels 3 is started. The end effect command is a command for causing the liquid crystal display device 5 to display an effect image when all three rotary reels 3 are stopped.
Further, commands relating to the setting or release of special games, mini games, and bonus games are also stored in the ROM 42, and the setting or release of special games, mini games, or bonus games is notified to the sub-control circuit 82 by the commands. Data indicating that a special game, a mini game, or a bonus game is being executed for various commands related to display control for the liquid crystal display device 5 instead of a command for setting or canceling a special game, a mini game, or a bonus game. May be included.

Various commands as described above are called from the ROM 42 by the CPU 41 and set in the RAM 43 when various conditions are met. The command set in the RAM 43 is supplied to the sub control circuit 82 at a predetermined timing. The sub control circuit 82 executes various processes based on the supplied command.

The sub control circuit 82 does not input a command or the like to the main control circuit 81, and communication is performed in one direction from the main control circuit 81 to the sub control circuit 82. The ROM 42 stores a symbol table for associating the rotational positions of the rotary reels 3L, 3C, and 3R with symbols drawn on the outer peripheral surface of the rotary reel, and a combination of symbols for winning. In addition, a winning symbol combination table in which the number of winning medal dividends and a winning determination code representing the winning are associated, a lottery probability table necessary for performing a lottery for determining an internal winning combination, and the like are stored.
In addition to the above-described commands, the RAM 43 stores variables, flags, and the like related to game progress such as the number of credits corresponding to the number of medals.

Major peripheral devices (actuators) whose operations are controlled by control signals from the microcomputer 40 include various lamps (1-BET lamp 9a, 2-BET lamp 9b, maximum BET lamp 9c, WIN lamp 17, and game medal insertion. Lamp 24 and game start display lamp 25), various display units (payout number display unit 18, medal stored number display unit 19, and accessory operation number display unit 20), and medal are housed, according to a command from hopper drive circuit 51. There are a hopper (including a payout driving unit) 50 for paying out a predetermined number of medals, and stepping motors 59L, 59C and 59R for rotating the rotary reels 3L, 3C and 3R.

Further, a motor drive circuit 49 for driving and controlling the stepping motors 59L, 59C and 59R, a hopper drive circuit 51 for driving and controlling the hopper 50, a lamp driving circuit 55 for driving and controlling various lamps, and a display for driving and controlling various display units. The unit drive circuit 58 is connected to the output unit of the CPU 41 via the I / O port 48. Each of these drive circuits receives a control signal such as a drive command output from the CPU 41, and controls the operation of each actuator.

The main input signal generators for generating input signals necessary for the microcomputer 40 to generate control commands include a start switch 6S, a 1-BET switch 11, a maximum BET switch 13, a stored medal settlement switch 14, There are an inserted medal sensor 22S, a reset switch 62, a setting key type switch 63, a reel stop signal circuit 56, a reel position detection circuit 60, a payout completion signal circuit 61, a card reader 92, and a point value consumption switch 93. These are also connected to the CPU 41 via the I / O port 48.

The start switch 6S detects the operation of the start lever 6. The inserted medal sensor 22 </ b> S detects a medal inserted into the medal slot 22. The reel stop signal circuit 56 generates a stop signal in response to the operation of the stop buttons 7L, 7C, and 7R. With these operations, the decision button 26 and the cancel button 27 can switch the display screen of the liquid crystal display device 5 and input an instruction.

The reel position detection circuit 60 receives the pulse signal from the reel rotation sensor and transmits a signal for detecting the position of each of the rotating reels 3L, 3C, and 3R to the CPU 41.
The payout completion signal circuit 61 generates a medal payout completion signal when the count value of the medal detection unit 50S (the number of medals paid out from the hopper 50) reaches a designated number. When the CPU 41 receives this medal payout completion signal, the driving of the hopper 50 is stopped via the hopper drive circuit 51 to complete the payout of medals. The medal detection unit 50S includes a medal sensor including a physical sensor for detecting medals paid out from the hopper 50, and can count the number of medals paid out by the medal sensor.

In the circuit shown in FIG. 5, the random number generator 46 generates random numbers belonging to a certain numerical range, and the sampling circuit 47 samples one random number at an appropriate timing after the start lever 6 is operated. . Based on the random number sampled in this way and the probability lottery table stored in the ROM 42, the internal winning combination is determined. After the internal winning combination is determined, random number sampling is performed again to select the “stop control table”.

After the rotation of the reels 3L, 3C and 3R is started, the number of drive pulses supplied to each of the stepping motors 59L, 59C and 59R is counted, and the counted value is written in a predetermined area of the RAM 43. From the reels 3L, 3C and 3R, reset pulses are obtained every rotation, and these pulses are input to the CPU 41 via the reel position detection circuit 60. The count value of the drive pulse counted in the RAM 43 is cleared to “0” by the reset pulse thus obtained. As a result, the RAM 43 stores the count value corresponding to the rotation position within the range of one rotation for each of the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R.

A symbol table is stored in the ROM 42 in order to associate the rotational positions of the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R with the symbols drawn on the outer peripheral surface of the reel. In this symbol table, the code numbers given sequentially for each fixed rotation pitch of each reel 3L, 3C, and 3R with the rotation position where the reset pulse is generated as a reference are provided corresponding to each code number. A symbol code indicating the displayed symbol is associated with the symbol.

Further, a winning symbol combination table is stored in the ROM 42. In this winning symbol combination table, a winning symbol combination, a winning medal dividend number, and a winning determination code representing the winning are associated with each other. The winning symbol combination table is referred to when the left reel 3L, the center reel 3C, and the right reel 3R are stopped and when a winning confirmation is made after all reels are stopped. The ROM 42 also stores a table indicating the correspondence between prizes and point values in the mini game. This table is referred to when determining the point value to be given in the mini game.

When an internal winning is made by the lottery process (probability lottery process) based on the random number sampling, the CPU 41 sends an operation signal sent from the reel stop signal circuit 56 at the timing when the player operates the stop buttons 7L, 7C and 7R, and Based on the selected “stop control table”, a signal for stopping the reels 3L, 3C and 3R is sent to the motor drive circuit 49.

In the stop mode indicating the winning of the winning combination in the internal winning state, when “payout” is selected by switching the stored medal settlement switch 14, the CPU 41 supplies the hopper drive circuit 51 with a payout command signal. A predetermined number of medals are paid out from 50. At that time, the medal detection unit 50S counts the number of medals to be paid out from the hopper 50, and when the count value reaches a designated number, a medal payout completion signal is input to the CPU 41. As a result, the CPU 41 stops driving the hopper 50 via the hopper drive circuit 51 and ends the “medal payout process”.
On the other hand, when “credit” is selected by switching the stored medal settlement switch 14, the number of medals to be paid out is stored in the RAM 43 as credits.

A sub control circuit 82 is connected to the main control circuit 81 including the CPU 41.
The sub control circuit 82 performs display control of the liquid crystal display device 5 and sound output control from the speakers 21L and 21R based on a control command (command) from the main control circuit 81.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing a configuration of the sub control circuit shown in FIG.
In the present embodiment, the main control circuit 81 is configured to supply a command to the sub control circuit 82 and not to supply a signal from the sub control circuit 82 to the main control circuit 81. Not limited to this, the sub control circuit 82 may be configured to transmit a signal to the main control circuit 81.

The sub control circuit 82 includes a sub CPU 206, a program ROM 208 and a work RAM 210.
The sub-control circuit 82 includes a sound control circuit 230 that performs control related to sound generated from the speaker 21 and a display control circuit 250 that performs display control in the liquid crystal display device 5.

The sub CPU 206 has a function of executing various processes in accordance with programs stored in the program ROM 208, and controls the sub control circuit 82 in accordance with various commands supplied from the CPU 41. In particular, the sub CPU 206 functions as a display control unit that performs display control on the display control circuit 250.

The program ROM 208 stores a program for controlling a game effect in the liquid crystal display device 5 by the sub CPU 206, and also stores various tables such as a table for making a decision regarding the effect. .
The program ROM 208 also includes a plurality of types of effect patterns corresponding to the screen image displayed on the liquid crystal display device 5 and a plurality of types corresponding to images displayed on the liquid crystal display device 5 when all the reels 3 are stopped. Are stored.

In this embodiment, the program ROM 208 is used as a storage medium for storing programs, tables, and the like. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and any other storage medium can be used as long as it is a computer-readable storage medium. For example, it may be recorded on a storage medium such as a hard disk device, a CD-ROM, a DVD-ROM, or a ROM cartridge. Of course, what is stored in the program ROM 208 may be stored in the ROM 42. Further, these programs may not be recorded in advance, but may be downloaded after the power is turned on and recorded in the work RAM 210 or the like. Furthermore, each program may be recorded on a separate storage medium.

In the present embodiment, the main control circuit 81 including the CPU 41 and the ROM 42 and the sub control circuit 82 including the sub CPU 206 and the program ROM 208 are separately configured. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the main control circuit including the CPU 41 and the ROM 42 is provided. In this case, the program stored in the program ROM 208 described above may be stored in the ROM 42 and executed by the CPU 41. Of course, it may be configured only by the sub control circuit 82 including the sub CPU 206 and the program ROM 208. In this case, the program stored in the ROM 42 is stored in the program ROM 208 and executed by the sub CPU 206. You may comprise as follows.

The work RAM 210 has a function of storing various flags and variable values as a temporary storage area of the sub CPU 206.
In the present embodiment, the work RAM 210 is used as a temporary storage area of the sub CPU 206. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and any readable / writable storage medium may be used.

The audio control circuit 230 includes a sound source IC 232 that controls audio, an audio data ROM 234 that stores various audio data, and an amplifier 236 (hereinafter referred to as AMP) for amplifying audio signals.

The sound source IC 232 is connected to the sub CPU 206, the audio data ROM 234, and the AMP 236. The sound source IC 232 controls sound generated from the speaker 21.

The sub CPU 206 selects one audio data from a plurality of audio data stored in the audio data ROM 234 based on the command supplied from the CPU 41. Thereafter, the sub CPU 206 reads the selected audio data from the audio data ROM 234 and supplies it to the sound source IC 232. The sound source IC 232 that has received the sound data converts the sound data into a predetermined sound signal and supplies the sound signal to the AMP 236. The AMP 236 amplifies the audio signal and generates audio from the speakers 21 (21L and 21R).

The display control circuit 250 performs control to display an image on the liquid crystal display device 5 in accordance with a game result determined by the CPU 41 or instructions input by the various buttons 26 and 27, and is an image data processor (hereinafter referred to as an image data processor). VDP.) 212, an image data ROM 216 for storing various image data, and a D / A converter 218 for converting the image data as an image signal. The VDP 212 is connected to a sub CPU 206, an image data ROM 216 in which image data is stored, and a D / A converter 218 that converts the image data into an image signal.

The VDP 212 includes various circuits such as a so-called sprite circuit, a screen circuit, and a pallet circuit, and can perform various processes for displaying an image on the liquid crystal display device 5. That is, the VDP 212 performs display control for the liquid crystal display device 5. Further, the VDP 212 includes a storage medium (for example, a video RAM) as a buffer for displaying an image on the transparent liquid crystal panel 34 of the liquid crystal display device 5. By storing the image data in a predetermined storage area of the storage medium, an image is displayed on the transparent liquid crystal panel 34 of the liquid crystal display device 5 at a predetermined timing.

The image data ROM 216 stores image data indicating a background image, a character image, various effect images, and the like.

The VDP 212 extracts image data from the image data ROM 216 in accordance with an image display command (command) supplied from the sub CPU 206.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing a main routine of a game execution process performed in the main control circuit.

First, the CPU 41 determines whether or not there is a request for automatic insertion of medals (step S120). The case where there is a request for automatic insertion is a case where a winning of replay (replay) is established in the previous game. When there is a request for automatic insertion of medals, medals for the insertion request are automatically inserted (step S122), and a medal insertion command is transmitted to the sub-control circuit 82 (step S123).

On the other hand, when determining in step S120 that there is no request for automatic medal insertion, the CPU 41 determines whether or not a medal has been inserted (step S121). That is, the CPU 41 determines whether or not a detection signal issued by the insertion medal sensor 22S that has detected that a medal has been inserted into the medal insertion slot 22 has been received, or whether the BET switch (1-BET switch 11 or maximum BET switch 13). ) To determine whether or not a medal has been inserted. When it is determined that a detection signal issued by the BET switch (1-BET switch 11 or maximum BET switch 13) is received, the CPU 41 corresponds to the number of medals bet from the number of credits stored in the RAM 43. A process of subtracting the number of credits is performed.

When determining in step S121 that no medal has been inserted, the CPU 41 returns the process to step S120.
If it is determined in step S121 that a medal has been inserted, or if the process in step S123 is executed, the CPU 41 determines whether the start lever 6 has been operated (step S124). That is, the CPU 41 determines whether or not an input signal from the start switch 6S has been received.

When determining in step S124 that the start lever 6 has not been operated, the CPU 41 returns the process to step S120. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S124 that the start lever 6 has been operated, the CPU 41 performs various setting processes relating to the normal game (step S125). In these various setting processes, random numbers are sampled from the random number generator 146 at the timing when the start lever 6 is operated, and the internal winning is based on the sampled random number values and the lottery probability table set in the RAM 43. A lottery process for generating a combination (winning flag) is performed. In the various setting processes, for example, a win lamp lighting lottery process, a process related to selection of a stop control table for stopping the rotating reel, a process for initializing for reel rotation, and the like are performed, and the rotating reel 3 (3L, 3C and 3R) starts to rotate.

After the rotation of the rotating reels 3L, 3C and 3R is started, the number of drive pulses transmitted to each of the stepping motors 59L, 59C and 59R is counted, and the counted value is stored in the RAM 43. A reset pulse is obtained for each rotation from the rotating reels 3L, 3C, and 3R, and these pulses are input to the CPU 41 via the reel position detection circuit 60. The count value is cleared to “0” in the drive pulse counted in the RAM 43 by the reset pulse thus obtained. By doing so, the RAM 43 stores the count value corresponding to the rotational position within the range of one rotation for each of the rotating reels 3L, 3C and 3R.

In addition, in the symbol table stored in the ROM 42 for associating the rotational position of the rotating reels 3L, 3C and 3R with the symbol drawn on the outer peripheral surface of the rotating reel, the rotational position where the reset pulse is generated is used as a reference. A code number that is sequentially given for each of the rotation reels 3L, 3C, and 3R and a symbol code that indicates a symbol that is provided corresponding to each code number are associated with each other. Further, the winning symbol combination table stored in the ROM 42 is referred to at the time of stopping control of each of the rotating reels 3L, 3C and 3R and when confirming winning after the all rotating reels are stopped.
After executing the process of step S125, the CPU 41 shifts the process to step S126.

In step S <b> 126, the CPU 41 sets an effect start command in the RAM 43. This effect start command is a command for starting display of a predetermined effect image on the liquid crystal display device 5 and includes data on the internal winning combination determined by the lottery process. The effect start command is supplied to the sub control circuit 82 at a predetermined timing.
After executing the process of step S126, the CPU 41 shifts the process to step S128.

In step S128, the CPU 41 determines whether or not the stop button 7 (7L, 7C and 7R) is “ON” based on the presence / absence of an input signal from the reel stop signal circuit 56 (step S128). When it is determined that the stop button 7 is not “ON”, the CPU 41 determines whether or not the value of the automatic stop timer is “0” (step S129), and when it is determined that the value is not “0”. The process returns to step S128.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S128 that the stop button 7 is “ON”, or if it is determined in step S129 that the value of the automatic stop timer is “0”, the CPU 41 corresponds to the stop button 7. The rotation of the rotating reel 3 is stopped. At this time, the winning request (internal winning combination), the symbol position (the rotating position of the rotating reel 3 at the time of operation), the selected stop control table, etc. The number of frames is determined (step S130).

Next, the CPU 41 performs a process of rotating and stopping the rotating reel 3 by the number of sliding frames determined in step S130 (step S131), and sets a stop request for one rotating reel 3 (step S132). .

Next, the CPU 41 determines whether or not all of the three rotary reels 3 (3L, 3C, and 3R) are stopped (step S135). If it is determined that all the rotating reels 3 are not stopped, the process returns to step S128. On the other hand, if it is determined that all the rotating reels 3 have stopped, the CPU 41 performs a winning search (step S136). At this time, a winning symbol combination table or the like stored in the ROM 42 is referred to. Further, it is determined whether or not the winning flag is normal. If not, the illegal error may be displayed and the process may be interrupted.

Next, the CPU 41 sets an end effect command in the RAM 43 (step S137). This end effect command is a command for displaying an effect image at the end of the game according to the game result, and includes data related to the result of the winning search in step S136. The end effect command is supplied to the sub control circuit 82 at a predetermined timing.

Next, the CPU 41 determines whether or not a medal has been paid out, that is, whether or not there is a winning number (step S138).
When determining that there is a medal payout, the CPU 41 stores or pays out the number of medals according to the gaming state and the winning combination (step S139). When storing medals, the CPU 41 performs a process of adding the number of credits stored in the RAM 43. On the other hand, when paying out medals, the CPU 41 sends out a payout command signal to the hopper driving circuit 51 and pays out a predetermined number of medals from the hopper 50. At that time, the medal detection unit 50S counts the number of medals to be paid out from the hopper 50, and when the count value reaches a designated number, a medal payout completion signal is input to the CPU 41. As a result, the CPU 41 stops driving the hopper 50 via the hopper drive circuit 51 and ends the medal payout process.

Next, the CPU 41 determines whether or not a special game is won (step S140). If it is determined that no special game has been won, the game execution processing routine is terminated.
On the other hand, when determining that the special game is won, the CPU 41 transmits a special game setting command to the sub-control circuit 82 (step S141). The special game setting command is a command for causing the liquid crystal display device 5 to display a special game effect image.

Next, the CPU 41 executes a mini game determination process (step S142). In this process, the CPU 41 determines whether or not to generate a mini game by performing a random number lottery set to win with a predetermined probability.

Next, the CPU 41 determines whether or not it has been determined to generate a mini game (step S143). If it is determined that the mini game is not determined to be generated, the present game execution processing routine is terminated.
On the other hand, when determining that it is determined to generate the mini game, the CPU 41 transmits a special game release command to the sub-control circuit 82 (step S144). The special game release command is a command for stopping the display of the special game effect image.

Next, the CPU 41 transmits a mini game setting command to the sub control circuit 82 (step S145). The mini game setting command is a command for causing the liquid crystal display device 5 to display a mini game effect image.

Next, the CPU 41 performs a mini game execution process (step S146). In the mini game, when the game card is inserted into the card reader 92, the point values to be given can be stored cumulatively in the game card. The mini game execution process will be described later in detail with reference to FIG. When executing the mini game execution process, the CPU 41 functions as a mini game execution means.

Next, the CPU 41 transmits a mini game release command to the sub control circuit 82 (step S147). The mini game release command is a command for stopping display of the effect image for the mini game.

Next, the CPU 41 transmits a bonus game setting command to the sub control circuit 82 (step S148). The bonus game setting command is a command for causing the liquid crystal display device 5 to display a bonus game effect image.

Next, the CPU 41 performs a bonus game execution process (step S149). This process is a process for executing a bonus game, which will be described in detail later with reference to FIG. When executing the bonus game execution process, the CPU 41 functions as a bonus game execution means.

Next, the CPU 41 transmits a bonus game release command to the sub control circuit 82 (step S150). The bonus game cancel command is a command for stopping display of the effect image for the bonus game.

When a game card is inserted into the card reader 92 in the mini game, the CPU 41 discharges the game card (step S151).
After executing the process of step S151, the game execution process routine is terminated.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing a subroutine of the mini game execution process performed in step S146 of FIG.
First, the CPU 41 performs various setting processes related to the mini game (step S200). In the various setting processes, a random number is sampled from the random number generator 146, and an internal winning combination (winning flag) is generated based on the sampled random number value and a lottery probability table set in the RAM 43. Is done. In the various setting processes, for example, a WIN lamp lighting lottery process, a process related to selection of a stop control table for stopping the rotating reel, a process for initializing for reel rotation, and the like are performed, and the rotating reel 3 (3L, 3C and 3R) starts to rotate.

The subsequent processes in steps S201 to S205 are the same as the processes in steps S128 to S132 in FIG.

Next, the CPU 41 determines whether or not all of the three rotary reels 3 (3L, 3C, and 3R) are stopped (step S206). If it is determined that all the rotating reels 3 are not stopped, the process returns to step S201. On the other hand, when determining that all the rotating reels 3 are stopped, the CPU 41 performs a point value determination process (step S207). In this process, the CPU 41 performs a winning search and determines a point value to be given with reference to a table showing a correspondence relationship between a prize and a point value in the mini game stored in the ROM 42.

Next, the CPU 41 transmits a card insertion instruction command to the sub control circuit 82 (step S208). The card insertion instruction command is a command for causing the liquid crystal display device 5 to display an image instructing to insert the game card carried by the player into the card reader 92.

Next, the CPU 41 determines whether or not a game card has been inserted into the card reader 92 (step S209). If insertion of a game card is not detected after waiting for a predetermined time (in this embodiment, 20 seconds), the point value determined in step S207 is stored in the RAM 43, and this subroutine is terminated.

On the other hand, when insertion of a game card is detected within a predetermined time, the point value determined in step S207 is cumulatively stored in the inserted game card (step S210). When executing the process of step S210, the CPU 41 functions as a point value adding means.
After executing the process of step S210, this subroutine is terminated.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing a bonus game execution process subroutine performed in step S149 of FIG.
First, in step S300, the CPU 41 detects a consumption point value. Specifically, a signal output when the player operates the point value consumption switch 93 is detected, and the point value consumed is determined.
Then, the CPU 41 determines whether or not a game card is inserted. If it is determined that a game card is inserted, the CPU 41 reads the point value stored in the game card and is consumed from the stored point value. Subtract the point value. When executing a process of reading the point value stored in the game card, the CPU 41 functions as a reading unit.
On the other hand, if it is determined that no game card is inserted, the CPU 41 reads the point value stored in the RAM 43 and subtracts the consumed point value from the stored point value.

Next, the CPU 41 determines the number t of bonus games according to the point value detected in step S300 (step S301).
In this embodiment, two bonus games are awarded per consumption point value. For example, when 20 points are consumed, 40 bonus games are awarded. However, if the end condition is satisfied, the bonus game ends even if the number of times given has not been reached.

Next, the CPU 41 performs a process of subtracting 1 from the value of t (step S302).

Next, the CPU 41 performs various setting processes relating to the bonus game (step S303). In these various setting processes, random number sampling is performed from the random number generator 146, the bonus game end condition is determined based on the sampled random number value, and the sampled random number value and the RAM 43 are set. A lottery process for generating an internal winning combination (winning flag) based on the lottery probability table is performed. In the various setting processes, for example, a win lamp lighting lottery process, a process related to selection of a stop control table for stopping the rotating reel, a process for initializing for reel rotation, and the like are performed, and the rotating reel 3 (3L, 3C and 3R) starts to rotate.

In step S304, the CPU 41 determines whether or not the stop button 7 (7L, 7C, and 7R) is “ON” based on the presence / absence of an input signal from the reel stop signal circuit 56. When it is determined that the stop button 7 is not “ON”, the CPU 41 determines whether or not the value of the automatic stop timer is “0” (step S305), and when it is determined that the value is not “0”. The process returns to step S304.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S304 that the stop button 7 is “ON”, or if it is determined in step S305 that the value of the automatic stop timer is “0”, the CPU 41 corresponds to the stop button 7. The rotation of the rotating reel 3 is stopped. At this time, the winning request (internal winning combination), the symbol position (the rotating position of the rotating reel 3 at the time of operation), the selected stop control table, etc. The number of frames is determined (step S306).

Next, the CPU 41 performs a process of rotating and stopping the rotating reel 3 by the number of sliding frames determined in step S306 (step S307), and sets a stop request for one rotating reel 3 (step S308). .

Next, the CPU 41 determines whether or not the consumption point value detected in step S300 is equal to or greater than a predetermined number (20 in the present embodiment) (step S309). Note that the processes in steps S309 to S311 are executed only when the first one of the three rotating reels 3 is stopped.
If it is determined in step S309 that the consumption point value is not equal to or greater than the predetermined number, the process proceeds to step S312.
On the other hand, when determining that the consumption point value is equal to or greater than the predetermined number, the CPU 41 determines whether or not a predetermined symbol is stopped and displayed (step S310). Specifically, it is determined whether or not the symbol that is stopped and displayed when the rotating reel 3 is stopped is a symbol that needs to be stopped and displayed to satisfy the end condition.

If it is determined that the predetermined symbol has not been stopped and displayed, the process proceeds to step S312.
On the other hand, when determining that the predetermined symbol is stopped and displayed, the CPU 41 transmits an end condition notification command to the sub-control circuit 82 (step S311). The end condition notification command is a command for displaying an image for informing the end condition on the liquid crystal display device 5 for a predetermined time (in this embodiment, 10 seconds). When executing the process of step S311, the CPU 41 functions as a notification unit.

Next, the CPU 41 determines whether or not all of the three rotating reels 3 (3L, 3C, and 3R) are stopped (step S312). If it is determined that all the rotating reels 3 are not stopped, the process returns to step S304. On the other hand, if it is determined that all the rotating reels 3 have stopped, the CPU 41 determines whether or not an end condition is satisfied (step S313). Specifically, it is determined whether or not three predetermined symbols are stopped and displayed.

If it is determined that the end condition is satisfied, the process proceeds to step S315.
On the other hand, when determining that the termination condition is not satisfied, the CPU 41 determines whether or not the value of t is 0 (step S314). If it is determined that the value of t is not 0, the process returns to step S302.
On the other hand, when determining that the value of t is 0, the CPU 41 executes payout processing (step S315). In this process, the CPU 41 pays out medals based on a prize established in the bonus game.
After executing the processing of step S315, this subroutine is terminated.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing a subroutine of command reception processing performed in the sub control circuit.
First, in step S400, the sub CPU 206 determines whether or not an effect start command has been received. If it is determined that an effect start command has not been received, the process proceeds to step S410.
On the other hand, if it is determined that an effect start command has been received, in step S401, the sub CPU 206 selects an effect pattern corresponding to the command from a plurality of types of effect patterns stored in the program ROM 208.
When the special game flag is set, the sub CPU 206 selects a special game effect pattern. When the mini game flag is set, the effect pattern for the mini game is selected, and when the bonus game flag is set, the effect pattern for the bonus game is selected. Next, in step S <b> 402, effect pattern data that is data indicating the effect pattern is supplied to the display control circuit 250.
After performing the process of step S402, the process proceeds to step S410.

In step S410, the sub CPU 206 determines whether or not an end effect command has been received. If it is determined that the end effect command has not been received, the process proceeds to step S420.
On the other hand, if it is determined that an end effect command has been received, in step S411, the sub CPU 206 selects an end effect pattern corresponding to the command from among a plurality of types of end effect patterns stored in the program ROM 208.
Next, in step S412, end effect pattern data is supplied to the display control circuit 250. After performing the process of step S412, the process proceeds to step S420.

In step S420, the sub CPU 206 determines whether or not a special game setting command has been received. If it is determined that the special game setting command has not been received, the process proceeds to step S430. On the other hand, when determining that the special game setting command has been received, the sub CPU 206 sets a special game flag in step S421. The special game flag is a flag that is set when the special game starts and cleared when the special game ends.

Next, in step S430, the sub CPU 206 determines whether or not a mini game setting command has been received. If it is determined that the mini game setting command has not been received, the process proceeds to step S440. On the other hand, when determining that the mini game setting command has been received, the sub CPU 206 sets a mini game flag in step S431. The mini game flag is a flag that is set at the start of the mini game and cleared at the end of the mini game.

Next, in step S440, the sub CPU 206 determines whether or not a card insertion instruction command has been received. If it is determined that the card insertion instruction command has not been received, the process proceeds to step S450. On the other hand, if it is determined that the card insertion instruction command has been received, the sub CPU 206 controls display of card insertion instruction data, which is data for causing the liquid crystal display device 5 to display an image instructing insertion of a game card in step S441. Supply to circuit 250. After performing the process of step S441, the process proceeds to step S450.

In step S450, the sub CPU 206 determines whether or not a bonus game setting command has been received. If it is determined that the bonus game setting command has not been received, the process proceeds to step S460. On the other hand, when determining that the bonus game setting command has been received, the sub CPU 206 sets a bonus game flag in step S451. The bonus game flag is a flag that is set at the start of the bonus game and cleared at the end of the bonus game.

Next, in step S460, the sub CPU 206 determines whether or not an end condition notification command has been received. If it is determined that the end condition notification command has not been received, the process proceeds to step S470. On the other hand, if it is determined that the end condition notification command has been received, the sub CPU 206 is data for displaying an image for notifying the end condition on the liquid crystal display device 5 for a predetermined time (10 seconds) in step S461. End condition notification data is supplied to the display control circuit 250. After performing the process of step S461, the process proceeds to step S470.

Next, the sub CPU 206 determines whether or not a special game release command has been received (step S470). If it is determined that the special game release command has been received, the special game flag is cleared (step S471).

If it is determined in step S470 that a special game cancel command has not been received, or if the process of step S471 has been executed, the sub CPU 206 determines whether or not a mini game cancel command has been received (step S480). . If it is determined that the mini game release command has been received, the mini game flag is cleared (step S481).

If it is determined in step S480 that a mini game cancel command has not been received, or if the process of step S481 has been executed, the sub CPU 206 determines whether or not a bonus game cancel command has been received (step S490). . If it is determined that the bonus game cancel command has not been received, this subroutine is terminated.
On the other hand, when determining that the bonus game cancel command has been received, the sub CPU 206 clears the bonus game flag (step S491).
After executing the processing of step S491, this subroutine is terminated.

FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing a subroutine of display control processing performed in the display control circuit.
The VDP 212 generates image data corresponding to various data supplied from the sub CPU 206.
When the VDP 212 does not receive the production pattern data from the sub CPU 206 (step S500: NO), the VDP 212 extracts the demo image data from the image data ROM 216 and stores it in the buffer (step S501).

The VDP 212 receives the effect pattern data from the sub CPU 206 (step S500: YES). When the VDP 212 does not receive the end effect pattern data (step S504: NO), the effect image data is received from the image data ROM 216. Extracted and stored in the buffer (step S505).

When the VDP 212 receives the effect pattern data from the sub CPU 206 (step S500: YES) and receives the end effect pattern data (step S504: YES), the VDP 212 receives the effect image data at the end from the image data ROM 216. Extracted and stored in the buffer (step S506).

After executing the processing of step S501, S505, or S506, the VDP 212 determines whether or not the card insertion instruction data is supplied (step S507). If it is determined that the card insertion instruction data has been supplied, the VDP 212 extracts card insertion instruction image data indicating an image for instructing insertion of a game card from the image data ROM 216 and stores it in the buffer (step S508).

If it is determined in step S507 that the supply of card insertion instruction data has not been received, or after the processing of step S508 has been executed, the VDP 212 determines whether or not supply of termination condition notification data has been received (step S509). . If it is determined that the end condition notification data is supplied, the VDP 212 extracts end condition notification image data indicating an image for notification of the end condition and stores it in the buffer (step S510).

If it is determined in step S509 that the card insertion instruction data has not been supplied, or after executing the process of step S510, the VDP 212 outputs an image to the liquid crystal display device 5 (step S511).

Thereafter, if the effect has not ended (step S512: NO), the process returns to step S500. On the other hand, when the effect is finished (step S512: YES), the pattern data is cleared (step S513), and the process returns to step S500.

As described above, according to the pachislot gaming apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment, when determining whether or not to generate a mini game in a special game that is advantageous to the player as compared to the normal game, and generating the mini game If determined, a mini game is executed. In this mini game, a point value is given according to the result of the game. After the mini game is over, a bonus game is executed. When a point value of a predetermined number or more is consumed in the bonus game, a notification image 98 for notifying the end condition, which is a condition for ending the bonus game, is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 5. Based on the content of the notification, the player can perform an operation so that the end condition is not satisfied. Therefore, the player can enjoy the game for a longer time by using the point value, and can increase the enjoyment of the game, such as acquiring more medals.

Further, according to the pachislot gaming device 1 according to the present embodiment, when a predetermined number or more of point values are consumed in the bonus game, the liquid crystal display device 5 has three specific same symbols as the end condition of the bonus game. A notification image 98 for notifying that the display is stopped is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 5. Therefore, the player can perform an operation so that three specific symbols are not stopped and displayed.

Moreover, according to the pachislot gaming device 1 according to the present embodiment, the point value given in the mini game is cumulatively stored in the game card carried by the player, and the point value stored cumulatively is stored in the card. The reader 92 reads. Therefore, the point values that have not been used up can be accumulated. In addition, the point value acquired in the past can be consumed in subsequent games.

In the present embodiment, a case has been described in which a bonus game end condition is notified when a symbol first stopped and displayed among the symbols drawn on the three rotating reels 3 is a specific symbol. That is, when the notification means of the present invention notifies the end condition when a predetermined number or more of the point values given in the mini game are consumed and the game state of the bonus game is in a state where the end condition can be satisfied. Explained. When configured as in this embodiment, the player can be strongly impressed that the end condition can be satisfied. Also, the player cannot know the end condition until the end condition can be satisfied, so the player must play without knowing what the end condition is, and the player's sense of tension Can be sustained.
Here, the state where the end condition can be satisfied is, for example, when the end condition is “specific identification information (design) is stopped and displayed after the identification information is variably displayed on the display unit”. A state in which at least a condition that must be satisfied to satisfy the end condition is satisfied, such as a state in which one of a plurality of symbols that must be stopped and displayed to satisfy the end condition is initially stopped and displayed. Say.
However, in this invention, the timing which alert | reports completion | finish conditions is not limited to this example.
For example, the end condition may be notified at the start of the bonus game. When configured in this way, the player can know the end condition at the start of the bonus game. Therefore, an operation for preventing the end condition from being satisfied from the start of the bonus game can be considered, and it becomes easy to make a game strategy.
Further, for example, the end condition may be notified when the rotating reel starts to rotate, or the notification timing may be determined using a random number.

Further, in the present embodiment, a case has been described in which the bonus game end condition is that three specific identical symbols are stopped and displayed on the liquid crystal display device 5. However, the termination condition is not limited to this example in the present invention. For example, three different symbols may be stopped and displayed in a specific combination, and can be set as appropriate.

In the present embodiment, the end condition is notified by displaying the notification image 98 on the liquid crystal display device 5, but the notification method is not limited to this example in the present invention. For example, the end condition may be notified by voice.

In the present embodiment, the acquired point value is cumulatively stored in the game card carried by the player. In the present invention, the storage medium for storing the point value cumulatively is, It is not limited to this example. For example, the point values may be stored cumulatively in an external management device that can communicate with the pachislot gaming device via a network.

In the present embodiment, the point value stored in the game card is directly read without temporarily storing it in the RAM, or the newly acquired point value is directly written in the game card. The present invention is not limited to this example. For example, when a game card is inserted, the point value stored in the game card is stored in the RAM, the point value stored in the RAM is subtracted, or the acquired point value is stored in the RAM. Or may be configured to be added to.

Further, in the present embodiment, the case where the bonus game is performed in the special game has been described. However, the bonus game may be performed in the normal game executed after the special game is finished.

Moreover, although this embodiment demonstrated the case where a pachislot game was performed as a game, the game in this invention is not limited to this example, For example, a pachinko game may be sufficient.

Further, the mini game in the present invention is not particularly limited as long as it is a game to which a point value can be given, but it is desirable that the game is a game in which the point value cannot be consumed. The kind of mini game is not particularly limited, and may be, for example, a card game or a video roulette game.

In addition, the bonus game in the present invention is not particularly limited as long as it is a game that is played after the mini game is finished and can consume the point value, but is preferably a game in which no point value is given. The type of bonus game is not particularly limited, and may be, for example, a card game or a video roulette game.

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

It is a perspective view showing typically a pachislot gaming device according to the present embodiment. It is a figure which shows typically an example of the image displayed on a liquid crystal display device. It is a perspective view which shows schematic structure of the liquid crystal display device with which the pachislot gaming machine shown in FIG. 1 is provided. FIG. 4 is a development view of a part of the configuration of the liquid crystal display device shown in FIG. 3. It is a block diagram which shows the internal structure of the pachislot gaming device shown in FIG. FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a sub control circuit shown in FIG. 5. It is a flowchart which shows the main routine of the game execution process performed in a main control circuit. It is a flowchart which shows the subroutine of a mini game execution process. It is a flowchart which shows the subroutine of a bonus game execution process. It is a flowchart which shows the subroutine of the command reception process performed in a subcontrol circuit. It is a flowchart which shows the subroutine of the display control process performed in a display control circuit.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Pachislot gaming device 2 Case 3 (3L, 3C, and 3R) Rotating reel 5 Liquid crystal display device 34 Transparent liquid crystal panel 41 CPU
42 ROM
43 RAM
81 Main control circuit 82 Sub control circuit 92 Card reader 93 Point value consumption switch 98 Notification image 206 CPU
210 RAM
212 VDP
216 Image data ROM

Claims (3)

Mini game execution means for executing a mini game to which a point value can be given during a period in which a special game, which is a game advantageous to the player as compared with a normal game, is performed;
Bonus game execution means for executing a bonus game that is performed after the mini-game is finished and can consume the point value;
A gaming machine, comprising: an informing means for informing an end condition, which is a condition for ending the bonus game, when a predetermined number or more of the point values are consumed in the bonus game. Provided with a display means capable of displaying and stopping the identification information in a variable manner,
When the point value is consumed more than a predetermined number in the bonus game, the notification means displays the end condition, and the specific identification information is stopped and displayed after the identification information is variably displayed on the display means. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the gaming machine is notified. Point value adding means for cumulatively storing the point value in a portable storage means carried by the player or in an external management device;
The gaming machine according to claim 1, further comprising a reading unit that reads the point value stored in the portable storage unit or the management device.

Images