JP2008253354A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To maintain player's interest in a game while considering the profit of a game hall even when shifting to a state advantageous to a player such as a high probability replay state under a prescribed condition. <P>SOLUTION: During the operation of RT, the winning probability of replay is higher than that when the RT is not operated. The operation of the RT is started together with the end of a bonus game and continues for 1,000 games but is ended even in the middle of 1,000 games when a cherry is won. When the cherry is internally won during the operation of the RT, a performance of reporting that the cherry is internally won is executed. The number of times of executing the performance of reporting that the cherry is internally won is varied according to the value of a cherry reporting number-of-times counter updated by the result of a stop position game of competing which position is the stop control position of a reel in the first stop operation of three successive games while the RT is not operated. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2009,JPO&INPIT

Description

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

  Conventionally, a plurality of reels in which a plurality of symbols are arranged on the respective circumferential surfaces, and a plurality of reels corresponding to each of the reels, a part of the plurality of symbols arranged on the circumferential surface of each reel. Requests to start reel rotation based on player's operation (hereinafter referred to as “start operation”) on condition that a display window for displaying the symbol so that the player can see and a medal is inserted A start switch that outputs a signal to perform, a stop switch that outputs a signal requesting the stop of rotation of the reel according to the type of the reel, based on an operation by the player (hereinafter referred to as “stop operation”), and these start 2. Description of the Related Art A gaming machine (so-called pachislot machine) including a control unit that controls the operation of a motor based on signals output from a switch and a stop switch, and rotates and stops each reel is known. There. In such a pachi-slot, it is determined whether or not a winning is made based on a combination of symbols displayed by the plurality of display windows, and medals are paid out when it is determined that a winning is achieved.

  Currently, the mainstream pachislot machine performs an internal lottery when it detects a start operation by a player, and stops the reel rotation based on the result of the lottery and the timing of the stop operation by the player. For example, when the result related to winning is determined by the internal lottery described above (hereinafter, the result of the internal lottery is referred to as “internal winning combination”), the player performs a stop operation so that the winning is established. Even after the operation is performed, the rotation of the reel continues within a predetermined period (for example, 190 ms), and then stops. Further, if the internal winning combination relating to winning is not determined, the rotation of the reel is stopped so that winning is not established. In other words, in such a game machine, a stop operation (so-called “eye push”) at an appropriate timing is required in many situations, and what combination of symbols is displayed on the display window when the rotation of the reel is stopped. Is related to the timing of the stop operation, that is, the skill of the player.

In Patent Document 1, a plurality of lottery tables for determining a winning combination are prepared, and when a predetermined condition, for example, after a bonus game operation ends or when a predetermined symbol combination is displayed (Patent Document) 1) and the lottery table to be used is determined by the lottery table having a high probability of winning the winning combination (replay) related to the so-called replay operation (high probability replaying). State) or a winning combination is determined by a lottery table with a low probability of winning a replay (low probability replaying state), thereby suppressing the number of medals inserted by the player under a predetermined condition. A possible slot machine is disclosed.
JP 2005-143931 A

  According to such a slot machine, for example, if the high probability re-playing state is activated at the end of the operation of the bonus game, the bonus game can be performed by continuing the high-probability re-playing state for a predetermined number of games. The state advantageous to the advantage continues from the operation of the time until the end of the high probability replay state.

  However, if such a high-probability re-playing state is continued for a long period of time, it is not necessary to lend gaming value such as medals from the game hall to the player during that period, so it is not possible to make a profit for the game hall Business willingness will decline.

  On the other hand, if the high-probability re-gaming state ends in a short period of time, the player must immediately receive a gaming value loan such as a medal, so the interest in the game will decline.

  Therefore, even when transitioning to the high probability replaying state when the bonus game is finished, etc., there is a need for a means capable of maintaining the interest of the game while taking into account the benefits of the game room. In the technique disclosed in No. 1, there is a problem that such consideration is not made.

  The object of the present invention is to maintain the interest of the player in the game while taking into account the benefits of the game hall even when shifting to a state advantageous to the player, such as a high probability re-playing state under a predetermined condition. It is to be.

The present invention provides a symbol display means having a plurality of symbol display areas each displaying a plurality of symbols, a winning combination defining means for defining a plurality of winning combinations including a first combination, and the winning combination defining means. A symbol combination defining means for defining a combination of symbols displayed in each of the symbol display areas corresponding to each of the plurality of defined winning combinations; a start operation detecting means for detecting a start operation; In response to detection of the start operation performed by the start operation detecting means, a winning combination lottery means for selecting a winning combination from among the winning combinations defined by the winning combination defining means by lottery, and a lottery by the winning combination lottery means The winning combination determining means for determining the winning combination based on the figure, and the change of the symbol displayed by the symbol display means triggered by detection of the starting operation performed by the starting operation detecting means The symbol variation means performs detection based on a variation means, a stop operation detection means for detecting a stop operation, a winning combination determined by the winning combination determination means, and detection of a stop operation performed by the stop operation detection means. Stop control means for stopping and controlling the change of the displayed symbols, advantageous state transition means for shifting to a relatively advantageous advantageous state by a predetermined condition, and when the advantageous state continues for a predetermined number of unit games, or In the advantageous state, the first combination is determined as a winning combination by the winning combination determining means, and a combination of symbols defined in the symbol combination defining means corresponding to the first combination is displayed in each symbol display area. When displayed, an unfavorable state transition means for shifting to an unfavorable state that is relatively unfavorable compared to the advantageous state, a numerical value storing means for storing a numerical value, and the numerical value storage during the advantageous state When a numerical value greater than 0 is stored in the stage, the first effect that informs that the first combination is a winning combination when the first combination is determined as a winning combination by the winning combination determining means. A first effect executing means for executing the subtracting means, and a subtracting means for subtracting a numerical value stored in the numerical value storing means every time the first effect is executed by the first effect executing means, Further, stop control position combination defining means for defining a plurality of combinations of stop control positions in a predetermined symbol display area of the plurality of symbol display areas for each of a plurality of consecutive unit games, and satisfying a predetermined condition The stop control position combination selecting means for selecting one of the combinations of stop control positions defined by the stop control position combination defining means, and the predetermined condition. A stop control position storage means for storing a stop control position in the predetermined symbol display area when no winning combination is determined by the winning combination determination means for any of the winning combinations that are satisfied A comparison means for comparing the difference between the combination of the stop control positions selected by the stop control position combination selecting means and the stop control position stored by the stop control position storage means for each of the plurality of unit games, and the comparison A numerical value adding means for adding a numerical value larger than 0 to the numerical value storing means in accordance with a result of comparison by the means;
It is a gaming machine characterized by comprising.

  In this case, when the predetermined condition is satisfied, the apparatus further includes second effect executing means for executing a second effect in the plurality of unit games, and the second effect executing means is based on the comparison means. The content of the second effect is selected according to the comparison result, and the combination of the stop operation order selected by the stop operation order combination selection means based on the result of the comparison by the comparison means and the stop operation order storage means When the stop operation order stored in the above is different, the second effect may be terminated in the unit game.

  Further, the stop operation detecting means has a plurality of buttons corresponding to the respective symbol display areas, and individually operates the respective symbol display areas by operating the respective buttons. The order combination defining means defines which one of the plurality of unit games is the stop operation for the symbol display area that is first performed among the stop operations by the plurality of buttons. Also good.

  The winning combination defining means defines a second combination relating to the operation of the bonus game, and the symbol combination defining unit defines combinations of symbols displayed in the respective symbol display areas for the second combination. When the second combination is determined by the winning combination determining means and the combination of symbols defined by the symbol combination defining means for the second combination is displayed on the symbol display means, Bonus game operating means for operating a bonus game is further provided, and the advantageous state transition means shifts to the advantageous state on condition that the operation of the bonus game by the bonus game operating means is completed. Good.

  The winning combination defining means defines a third combination related to the re-game operation, and the symbol combination defining unit defines combinations of symbols displayed in the respective symbol display areas for the third combination. When the third combination is determined by the winning combination determining means and the combination of symbols defined by the symbol combination defining means for the third combination is displayed on the symbol display means, Replay operation means for performing replay operation is further provided, wherein the winning combination lottery means is in the disadvantaged state when the probability of selecting the third combination by lottery by the winning combination lottery means is in the advantageous state. The advantageous state may be relatively advantageous over the disadvantaged state by setting it higher than a certain time.

  According to the present invention, the state shifts to an advantageous state under a predetermined condition, and shifts to a disadvantageous state when the advantageous state continues for a predetermined number of unit games. When the winning combination is determined and the symbol combination corresponding to the first combination is displayed in each symbol display area, the game is shifted to a disadvantaged state, so that the profit of the game hall and the player's profit are balanced. be able to.

  In addition, when the first combination is won during the advantageous state, a first effect is provided to notify that the first combination is won, so that a player who has at least a skill wins the first combination. This makes it possible to continue the advantageous state advantageous to the self for a long time. The number of executions of the first effect for notifying that the player has won the first combination increases as the numerical value stored in the numerical value storing means increases, and the player can avoid winning the first combination during the advantageous state. Opportunities increase and there is a high possibility that an advantageous state can be continued for a long time. Whether the numerical value stored in the numerical value storage means coincides with the pre-stored stop control position as to which of the symbol display areas the subsequent stop operation is performed when a loss occurs under a predetermined condition Since the player concentrates on the game to which the stop control position is applied and tries to increase his skill so that the stop control can be performed at the desired stop control position, the interest of the game is enhanced. be able to.

  Hereinafter, a gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[External configuration]
FIG. 1 is an external perspective view of a gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment. The gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment is a so-called pachislot machine. The gaming machine 1 is a gaming machine that uses a game medium such as a card that stores information on game value given to or given to a player in addition to coins, medals, game balls, tokens, and the like. However, in the following description, medals are used as game media.

  On the front surface of the front door 2 of the gaming machine 1, a panel display unit 2a, a liquid crystal display unit 2b, and a fixed display unit 2c having substantially vertical surfaces are provided. Further, behind the front door 2, three reels 3L, 3C, 3R on which a plurality of types of symbols are displayed on the outer peripheral surfaces are arranged in a horizontal row so as to be freely rotatable. Each of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R rotates at a constant speed (for example, 80 rotations / minute). The liquid crystal display unit 2b is provided with a transmissive liquid crystal display device 5 (see FIGS. 3 and 4) that serves as a display device. The liquid crystal display device 5 can also display an image on the front surface of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R.

  A substantially horizontal plane pedestal 4 is provided below the panel display 2a, the liquid crystal display 2b, and the fixed display 2c. On the right side and the center of the pedestal portion 4, there are provided medal slot 10 for inserting medals. The inserted medals are credited or bet on the game. Further, on the left side of the pedestal unit 4, a 1-BET switch 11, a 2-BET switch 12, and a maximum BET switch 13 for betting credited medals by a pressing operation are provided.

  The 1-BET switch 11 bets one of the credited medals on the game by a single pressing operation, and the 2-BET switch 12 displays the credited medals by a single pressing operation. Two of them are bet on the game, and the maximum BET switch 13 bets the maximum number of medals (three in this embodiment) that can be bet on one game. In the following description, an example in which three medals are bet basically will be described.

  By operating these BET switches 11 to 13, a display line described later is validated. The operation of the BET switches 11 to 13 and the operation of inserting a medal into the medal insertion slot 10 (the operation of inserting a medal for playing a game) are hereinafter referred to as “BET operation”.

  A C / P switch 14 is provided in the lower left direction of the pedestal portion 4 to switch the credit / payout of medals acquired by the player in the game by a push button operation. By switching the C / P switch 14, medals are paid out from the medal payout 15 at the lower front, and the medals are stored in the medal receiving portion 5. Speakers 21 </ b> L and 21 </ b> R that output sound effects relating to game effects are provided on the left and right of the upper part of the gaming machine 1.

  On the right side of the C / P switch 14, the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R are rotated by the player's operation to start the symbol variation display in the symbol display areas 21L, 21C, and 21R (FIG. 2). A start lever 6 is attached.

  Three stop buttons 7L, 7C, and 7R for stopping the rotation of the three reels 3L, 3C, and 3R, respectively, are provided on the right side of the start lever 6 at the center of the front surface of the pedestal portion 4. In the present embodiment, one game (unit game) basically starts when the start lever 6 is operated, and ends when all the reels 3L, 3C, 3R are stopped.

  In the present embodiment, the reel stop operation (stop button operation) performed when all the reels 3L, 3C, 3R are rotating is performed after the first stop operation and the first stop operation. The stop operation is referred to as a second stop operation, and the stop operation performed after the second stop operation is referred to as a third stop operation. Further, stop switches (not shown) are arranged on the back side of the stop buttons 7L, 7C, 7R, respectively. Each of these stop switches detects the operation (stop operation) of the corresponding stop button.

  The operation unit 17 receives various operations from the player.

[Display section]
Next, the panel display unit 2a, the liquid crystal display unit 2b, and the fixed display unit 2c will be described with reference to FIG.

  The panel display unit 2a includes a bonus game information display unit 16, BET lamps 9a to 9c, a payout display unit 18a, and a credit display unit 18b (also an information display unit 18). The bonus game information display unit 16 includes a 7-segment LED, and displays game information in the bonus. The 1-BET lamp 9a, the 2-BET lamp 9b, and the maximum BET lamp 9c are turned on in accordance with the number of medals bet to play one game (hereinafter referred to as “BET number”).

  The 1-BET lamp 9a is turned on when the number of BETs is one. The 2-BET lamp 9b is lit when the BET number is two. The maximum BET lamp 9c is lit when the number of BETs is three. The payout display unit 18a and the credit display unit 18b (also information display unit 18) are each composed of a 7-segment LED, and display the number of medals paid out and the number of credited medals when a winning is achieved.

  The liquid crystal display unit 2b includes symbol display areas 21L, 21C, and 21R, window frame display areas 22L, 22C, and 22R, and an effect display area 23. The display content of the liquid crystal display unit 2b varies depending on the rotation and stop modes of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R and the operation of the liquid crystal display device 5 (see FIGS. 3 and 4).

  The symbol display areas 21L, 21C, and 21R are provided corresponding to the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R, and display symbols arranged on the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R and various effects.

  In the symbol display areas 21L, 21C, and 21R, a top line 8a, a center line 8b, and a bottom line 8c are provided as display lines in the horizontal direction, and a cross-up line 8e and a cross-down line 8d are provided in an oblique direction. As for these five display lines, when the player depresses the BET switches 11 to 13 or inserts medals into the medal insertion slot 10, the number corresponding to the number of BETs is activated ( "Effective line"). Whether or not the display line is validated is displayed by turning on / off the BET lamps 9a, 9b, and 9c. These display lines 8a to 8e are related to the success or failure of the winning.

  Here, each symbol display area 21L, 21C, 21R is provided with three symbol stop positions (upper, middle, lower) in the vertical direction (vertical direction). When the symbol variation display (moving display) in each symbol display area 21L, 21C, 21R is stopped, the symbol is stopped and displayed at each of the symbol stop positions provided in each symbol display area 21L, 21C, 21R. . Each display line connects a symbol stop position in each symbol display area 21L, 21C, 21R.

  The symbol display areas 21L, 21C, and 21R are at least when the corresponding reels 3L, 3C, and 3R are rotating, and when the corresponding stop buttons 7L, 7C, and 7R can be pressed down, the player can use the reels 3L, 3C. , 3R becomes transparent so that the symbols on 3R can be visually recognized.

  The window frame display areas 22L, 22C, and 22R are provided so as to surround the symbol display areas 21L, 21C, and 21R, and the window frames of the symbol display areas 21L, 21C, and 21R disposed in front of the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R. It represents.

  The effect display area 23 is an area other than the symbol display areas 21L, 21C, 21R and the window frame display areas 22L, 22C, 22R among the areas of the liquid crystal display unit 2b. The fixed display portion 2c is an area where a predetermined figure or picture is drawn. A single still image or moving image may be displayed by connecting a figure or a picture drawn on the fixed display unit 2c with an image displayed in the effect display area 23.

  A liquid crystal display device 5 (see FIGS. 3 and 4), which will be described later, is provided on the front side (front side with respect to the display surface) of the gaming machine 1 from the display area of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R. Further, the reels 3L, 3C, 3R and the liquid crystal display device 5 are provided separately (for example, at a predetermined interval).

[Hardware configuration]
Next, with reference to FIG. 3, the circuit configuration of the gaming machine 1 including a main control circuit 71, a sub control circuit 72, a main control circuit 71, and a peripheral device (actuator) electrically connected to the sub control circuit 72 will be described. To do.

  The main control circuit 71 includes a microcomputer 30 disposed on a circuit board as a main component, and is added to a circuit for random number sampling. The microcomputer 30 includes a CPU 31 and ROM 32 and RAM 33 which are storage means. The ROM 32 stores a control program executed by the CPU 31 and various tables such as a symbol combination table described later. The RAM 33 is provided with various storage areas such as a carryover combination storage area, which will be described later, and stores various data.

  A clock pulse generation circuit 34, a frequency divider 35, a random number generator 36 and a sampling circuit 37 are connected to the CPU 31. The clock pulse generation circuit 34 and the frequency divider 35 generate a reference clock pulse. Based on the generated reference clock pulse, an interrupt process described later is performed. The random number generator 36 generates a certain range of random numbers (for example, 0 to 65535). The sampling circuit 37 extracts (samples) one random number value from the random number generated by the random number generator 36.

  In the circuit of FIG. 3, as the main actuators whose operation is controlled by the control signal from the microcomputer 30, the bet lamps 9a, 9b, 9c, the information display unit 18, the hopper 40, the stepping motors 49L, 49C, 49R, etc. is there. Each output port of the microcomputer 30 is connected to each circuit for receiving the control signal output from the CPU 31 and controlling the operation of each actuator. Each circuit includes a motor drive circuit 39, a lamp drive circuit 45, a display unit drive circuit 48, and a hopper drive circuit 41.

  The lamp driving circuit 45 controls turning on and off of the bed lamps 9a, 9b, and 9c. The display unit drive circuit 48 controls display of various types of information (payout number, credit number, etc.) by the information display unit 18. The hopper drive circuit 41 controls the payout of medals by the hopper 40. The moder drive circuit 39 outputs the pulses from the main control circuit 71 to the stepping motors 49L, 49C, 49R, thereby controlling the driving of the stepping motors 49L, 49C, 49R and rotating the reels 3L, 3C, 3R. And stop control thereof.

  Here, in the present embodiment, the number of times a pulse is output to the stepping motors 49L, 49C, 49R after the reel index indicating that the reel has made one rotation is detected by the reel position detection circuit 50 described later is counted. Thus, the rotation angle of the reel is detected with reference to the position where the reel index is detected. Further, gears (not shown) for transmitting the rotations of the stepping motors 49L, 49C, 49R to the reels 3L, 3C, 3R with a predetermined reduction ratio are provided, and 16 times with respect to the stepping motors 49L, 49C, 49R. By outputting this pulse, the reel corresponding to one symbol arranged around the reel is rotated.

  Specifically, the number of pulses output to the aforementioned stepping motors 49L, 49C, 49R is counted by the pulse counter of the RAM 33, and every time 16 pulse outputs are counted by the pulse counter, the RAM 33 The symbol counter is incremented by one. The symbol counter is cleared each time a reel index is detected.

  Here, symbol positions “0” to “20” for identifying each of the symbols arranged on the peripheral surface of the reel in order from the rotation direction of the reel are defined. A reel described later is positioned so that the symbol corresponding to the symbol position “0” is positioned at the center line 8b (more precisely, the center of the middle region in the vertical direction in each of the display windows 4L, 4C, and 4R). The position detection circuit 50 detects the reel index. That is, when the value of the symbol counter becomes “0” by detecting the reel index, the symbol corresponding to the symbol position “0” is located in the center line 8b. As a result, the symbol counter corresponds to the symbol position. Attached. Therefore, by referring to the symbol counter, it is possible to specify the symbol located on the center line 8b.

  In the present embodiment, the reel index is detected so that the symbol at symbol position “0” is positioned on the center line 8b, and the symbol on the center line 8b is specified by the symbol counter. However, the center line 8b is applied as the predetermined position. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the position where the symbol is specified can be arbitrarily changed. For example, the top line 8a or the bottom line 8c can be applied as the predetermined position. At this time, the top line 8a (more precisely, the center of the upper region in the vertical direction of each display window 4L, 4C, 4R) or the bottom line 8c (more precisely, each display window 4L, 4C, 4R). It is possible to apply a configuration in which the reel index is detected so that the symbol at the symbol position “0” is positioned in the center of the lower region in the vertical direction).

  Each input port of the microcomputer 30 is connected to switches and the like, and inputs a predetermined signal that triggers the control of the actuator and the like. Specifically, start switch 6S, stop switch 7S, 1-bet switch 11S, 2-bet switch 12S, maximum bet switch 13S, C / P switch 14S, setting change switch 19S, reset switch 20S, medal sensor 22S, reel A position detection circuit 50 and a payout completion signal circuit 51 are connected. Although not shown, a power switch for supplying and shutting off the power to the gaming machine 1 is also provided based on the operation of the administrator with respect to the power button.

  The start switch 6 </ b> S detects the player's tilting operation (i.e., start operation) with respect to the start lever 6, and outputs the detected signal to the microcomputer 30. The stop switch 7S detects a player's pressing operation (ie, a stop operation) on each of the stop buttons 7L, 7C, and 7R, and outputs the detected signal to the microcomputer 30. The 1-bet switch 11S, the 2-bet switch 12S, and the maximum bet switch 13S detect the player's pressing operation (ie, the insertion operation) on the 1-bet button 11, the 2-bet button 12, and the maximum bet button 13, respectively. The detected signal is output to the microcomputer 30. The medal sensor 22 </ b> S detects a medal that is an official at the medal insertion slot 22 by the player's operation, and outputs the detected signal to the microcomputer evening 30.

  The C / P switch 14 </ b> S detects the player's pressing operation on the C / P button 14 and outputs the detected signal to the microcomputer 30. The reel position detection circuit 50 detects, for example, a reel index indicating that the reel has rotated once for each of the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R by an optical sensor having a light emitting portion and a light receiving portion, and sends the detected signal to the microcomputer 30. Output. The payout completion signal circuit 51 detects whether or not the payout number has reached a predetermined number by the operation of the medal detection unit 40S, and outputs the detected signal to the microcomputer 30.

  The setting change switch 19 </ b> S detects the operation of the administrator with respect to the setting change button, and outputs the detected signal to the microcomputer 30. The reset switch 20 </ b> S detects an administrator's operation on the reset button and outputs a detected signal to the microcomputer 30. The set value is data serving as an index for distinguishing the degree of advantage for the player. That is, the data relates to the profits of the player and the game store in relation to the winning probability of the internal winning combination described later. The higher the internal winning / throwing probability associated with the granting of a privilege, the more likely it is that more medals can be obtained, which is advantageous for the player. In the present embodiment, six stages of “1” to “6” are provided as set values, and any one of these is set in the RAM 33 based on the inputs of the start switch 6S, the setting change switch 19S, and the reset switch 20S. Is stored (stored) in the set value storage area.

  Next, the circuit configuration of the sub control circuit 72 will be described. The main control circuit 71 controls the entire game such as the progress of the game, while the sub control circuit 72 controls the effects related to the game by displaying images and outputting sounds and lamps. The main control circuit 71 and the sub-control circuit 72 are electrically connected by a harness or the like, and the sub-control circuit 72 produces effects based on various commands (such as a start command described later) transmitted from the main control circuit 71. Various processes such as determination and execution are performed.

  Although the details will be described later, the sub control circuit 72 determines the production data and outputs it according to the control program stored in the sub ROM based on the command transmitted from the main control circuit 71 via the serial port. Perform various processes.

  The main actuators whose operations are controlled by the sub control circuit 72 include the liquid crystal display device 5, the speakers 21L and 21R, the LED 101, and the lamp 102. The sub-control circuit 72 causes the liquid crystal display device 5 to display an image based on the determined effect data, causes the LED 101 and the lamp 102 to output a lighting pattern, and causes the speakers 21L and 21R to output effect sounds and sound effects. Cause output to occur. In addition, the operation unit 17 and the volume control unit 103 are connected to the sub-control circuit 72, and an image and sound are output based on signals output from them.

  FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing the electrical connection of the sub control circuit 72. The sub control circuit 72 includes an image control circuit 201 and a sound / lamp control circuit 202.

  In the image control circuit 201, the command transmitted from the main control circuit 71 is received by the image control microcomputer 212 via the serial port 211. The image control microcomputer 212 includes a CPU and controls the image display of the liquid crystal display device 5. The program ROM 213 stores various control programs executed by the image control microcomputer 212, and the work RAM 214 serves as a work area for the image control microcomputer 212. The calendar IC 215 is a circuit having a calendar function.

  The image control IC 221 is a drive circuit that controls the image display of the liquid crystal display device 5 under the control of the image control microcomputer 212. The image ROM 222 stores moving image data such as effects displayed on the liquid crystal display device 5. The image control IC 221 uses the control RAM 223 and the video RAM 224 as work areas, and displays various moving image data stored in the image ROM 222 on the liquid crystal display device 5.

  Various operations performed by the operation unit 17 are transmitted to the image control microcomputer 212.

  The command transmitted from the main control circuit 71 is also received by the sound / lamp control microcomputer 232 of the sound / lamp control circuit 202 via the serial port 231. The sound / lamp control microcomputer 232 includes a CPU and controls the LEDs 232, the lamps 233, and the speakers 21L and 21R. The program ROM 233 stores various control programs executed by the sound / lamp control microcomputer 232. The work RAM 234 serves as a work area for the sound / lamp control microcomputer 232.

  The sound source ROM 235 stores various audio data output from the speakers 21L and 21R. The sound source IC 236 is a drive circuit for the power amplifier 237 that outputs sound from the speakers 21L and 21R. Various operations performed by the volume control unit 103 are transmitted to the sound / lamp control microcomputer 232, and the volume of the speakers 21L and 21R can be adjusted.

[Main tables and storage areas]
Next, main various tables and various storage areas used in the main control circuit 71 will be described.

  The symbol arrangement table of the main control circuit 71 will be described with reference to FIG. As described above, the gaming machine 1 includes the 1-bet button 11, the 2-bet button 12, the maximum bet button 13, the 1-bet lamp 9a, the 2-bet lamp 9b, and the maximum bet lamp 9c. Although a description has been given of a model in which a player can select one bet, two bets, and three bets for a certain medal, three bets will be described below.

  The symbol arrangement table represents the configuration of symbols arranged around each reel 3L, 3C, 3R as data. In the symbol arrangement table, when the reel index is detected, the symbol located at the middle stage of each display window 4L, 4C, 4R is defined as symbol position “0”, and symbol positions “0” to “0” corresponding to the symbol counter described above are used. “20” and the symbol type corresponding to each symbol position are defined. The type of each symbol is represented by 1-byte data, for example, “00000001” for cherry. Therefore, based on the symbol arrangement table and the symbol counter, the symbol positioned in the middle stage of the display windows 4L, 4C, and 4R of the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R, the symbol adjacent thereto, and the like can be specified.

  Next, the internal lottery table determination table of the main control circuit 71 will be described with reference to FIG.

  In the internal lottery table determination table, the type of the internal lottery table and the number of lotteries determined in accordance with the type of gaming state stored in the gaming state storage area of the RAM 33 are defined. In the general gaming state, the internal lottery table for the general gaming state is determined, and basically the number of lotteries is determined to be 5. In the regular bonus (hereinafter abbreviated as “RB”) gaming state, the internal lottery table for the RB gaming state is determined, and the number of lotteries is determined to be 3.

  Next, an internal lottery table of the main control circuit 71 will be described with reference to FIGS.

  In the internal lottery table, a lower limit value and an upper limit value of random numbers assigned according to each winning number (that is, a range of numerical values that are greater than or equal to the lower limit value and less than or equal to the upper limit value) are defined. The winning number is data for identifying a plurality of numerical ranges defined in the internal lottery table, and is data used when determining an internal winning combination described later.

  In the internal lottery table, it is determined whether or not the random number value extracted from the range of “0 to 65535” and stored in the random value storage area of the RAM 33 belongs to the numerical range of each winning number. The aforementioned number of lotteries indicates the number of times this determination is performed. As a result of the determination for the number of times of lottery, if the random number stored in the random value storage area belongs to any numerical range, the corresponding winning number is determined. If the random value stored in the random value storage area does not belong to any numerical value range, the winning number is determined to be 0. In addition, the winning probability of each winning number is “the number obtained by adding 1 to the difference between the upper limit value and the lower limit value specified for each winning number (that is, the size of the numerical range, the width in the figure) / occurrence The number of all random numbers to be performed (that is, 65536) ”can be calculated.

  FIG. 7 shows an internal lottery table for a general gaming state. FIG. 8 shows an internal lottery table for during replay time (hereinafter abbreviated as “RT”) operation. In the internal lottery table for general gaming state and the internal lottery table for RT operation, when the number of inserted medals is 3, the lower limit value and the upper limit value corresponding to the winning numbers 1 to 5 are defined (medal This may also be stipulated when the number of inserted sheets is 1 or 2). In addition, in the internal lottery table for the general gaming state and the internal lottery table for RT operation, basically, the winning probability of the winning number (that is, winning number 4 (replay to be described later)) related to the operation of the replay described later is determined. Differently, other winning numbers (that is, winning numbers 1 to 3 and 5) have the same winning probability. In the internal lottery table for RT operation, the winning probability of replay is considerably higher than that of the internal lottery table for general gaming state.

  FIG. 9 shows an internal lottery table for the RB gaming state. In the RB gaming state internal lottery table, when the number of inserted medals is 3, the lower limit value and the upper limit value corresponding to the winning numbers 1 to 3 are defined (the number of inserted medal is 1, 2 The case of sheets may also be specified). In the internal lottery table for RB gaming state, the winning probability of winning number 2 (a bell described later) is extremely high.

  Next, the internal winning combination determination table of the main control circuit 71 will be described with reference to FIG.

  In the internal winning combination determination table, an internal winning combination corresponding to the aforementioned winning number is defined. Specifically, cherry, bell, watermelon, replay, and BB are defined according to the winning numbers 1 to 5, respectively. When the winning number is determined by the internal lottery table described above, the internal winning combination corresponding to the winning number is determined. Therefore, it can be said that the determination of the winning number and the determination of the internal winning combination are equivalent.

  Next, the symbol combination table of the main control circuit 71 will be described with reference to FIG.

  In the symbol combination table, a symbol combination relating to the provision of a privilege, a display combination corresponding to this, and a payout number are defined. The display combination is data for identifying the type of combination of symbols displayed by the symbol display means.

  When cherry is displayed on the left reel 3L (the symbols of the middle reel 3C and the right reel 3R are irrelevant (indicated as “ANY” in FIG. 11)), the display combination is determined to be cherry. The number of payouts corresponding to cherry is one. When a bell is displayed on each reel 3L, 3C, 3R, the display combination is determined to be a bell. The number of payouts corresponding to the bell is 15. When a watermelon is displayed on each of the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R, the display combination is determined as a watermelon. The number of payouts corresponding to a watermelon is 6.

  When a replay is displayed on each of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R, the display combination is determined as a replay. When replay is determined, replay is performed in the next unit game. That is, the same number of medals as the number inserted in the unit game determined as the display combination are automatically inserted in the next unit game without being based on the player's insertion operation. Thereby, the player can perform the next unit game without consuming medals.

  Here, when the RT operation is started, the above-described internal lottery table for RT operation is used during a predetermined number of unit games. Therefore, the internal winning combination (replay of the winning number 4) related to the re-game operation is determined with a high probability, and as a result, the chances for re-playing increase, so that the RT is not operating (general Compared to the case where the same number of unit games are played in the game state internal lottery table), the consumption of medals can be suppressed. In addition, as described above, during RT operation, as in the case of RT non-operation, the winning probability after the internal winning related to payout or the internal winning related to the bonus game operation is specified, The player can be expected to pay out medals and operate a bonus game while minimizing the number of medals to be played.

  When three reds 7 of each reel 3L, 3C, 3R are displayed side by side along one effective line, the display combination is determined as BB. When BB is determined, the operation of BB is started.

  Here, cherry, bell, and watermelon relate to payout of game media (that is, medals). Replay relates to the operation of replay. BB relates to the operation of a bonus game that is advantageous to the player.

  Further, as shown as a remark in FIG. 11, winning a cherry is a condition for terminating the RT described above.

  Next, the bonus operation time table will be described with reference to FIG.

  In the bonus operation time table, data stored in a predetermined area of the RAM 33 at the start of operation of the bonus game is defined. When the RB is operated, an RB operating flag in an operating flag storage area of the RAM 33 described later is turned on, 12 is stored in the game possible number counter, and 8 is stored in the winning possible number counter. The game possible number counter is data for counting the number of unit games performed during the RB operation. The winning possible number counter is data for counting the number of times that a winning is determined during the RB operation (for example, a display combination related to a medal payout is determined).

  When BB is operated, a BB operating flag in an operating flag storage area of RAM 33 described later is turned on, and 350 is stored in the bonus end number counter. The bonus end number counter is data for counting the total number of payouts during the operation of the BB.

  Next, the configuration of the internal winning combination storing area of the RAM 33 of the main control circuit 71 will be described with reference to FIG.

  When the internal winning combination is determined, it is stored (stored) in the internal winning combination storing area (display combination storing area). Bits 0 to 7 in the internal winning combination storing area shown in FIG. 13 correspond to cherry, bell, watermelon, replay, and BB, respectively. The configuration of the display combination storage area is the same as the configuration of the internal winning combination storage area.

  Next, the configuration of the carryover combination storage area of the RAM 33 of the main control circuit 71 will be described with reference to FIG.

  When the internal winning combination relating to the operation of the bonus game is determined by the internal winning combination determining table, an identifier (that is, a flag) indicating the internal winning combination is stored in the carryover combination storing area. Specifically, bit 4 corresponds to BB. The identifier stored in the carryover combination storage area is cleared when the bonus game is started. In other words, when an internal winning combination related to the operation of the bonus game is determined, the identifier is stored until the operation of the bonus game is started (so-called “carryover”). The stored identifier is called “carryover combination”). While the identifier is stored in the carryover combination storage area, the stored identifier is determined as the internal winning combination regardless of the extracted random value. Moreover, since the carryover investment is determined based on the internal winning combination, it can be said to be a subordinate concept of the internal winning combination.

  Next, the configuration of the operating flag storage area of the RAM 33 of the main control circuit 71 will be described with reference to FIG.

  When the operation of the bonus game and the RT is started, an identifier indicating the type of the bonus game and the RT for which the operation is started is stored in the operating flag storage area. Specifically, bit 0 corresponds to the RB operating flag, bit 1 corresponds to the BB operating flag, and bit 2 corresponds to the RT operating flag.

  Next, the configuration of the game state storage area of the RAM 33 of the main control circuit 71 will be described with reference to FIG.

  When the gaming state is updated based on the data stored in the operating flag storage area, an identifier indicating the type of gaming state is stored in the gaming state storage area. Specifically, each of bit 0 and bit 1 corresponds to a general gaming state and an RB gaming state, respectively.

[Control operation of main control circuit]
Next, control performed by the CPU 31 of the main control circuit 71 will be described with reference to flowcharts shown in FIGS.

  First, a reset interrupt process performed by the CPU 31 of the main control circuit 71 will be described with reference to FIGS. The CPU 31 turns on the power and applies a voltage to the reset terminal to generate a reset interrupt, and sequentially performs the reset interrupt processing stored in the ROM 32 based on the occurrence of the reset interrupt. It is configured.

  When the power is turned on, first, the CPU 31 performs an initialization process (step S1). In this process, the register data and execution address stored in the RAM 33 are restored when the power is shut off. In this initialization process, the input of the setting switch 19S is checked, and if it is determined that the setting switch 19S is on, the setting value is changed. Specifically, any one of the set values “1” to “6” is stored in the set value storage area of the RAM 33 based on the inputs of the reset switch 20S and the start switch 6S. Next, the CPU 31 clears the designated storage area in the RAM 33 (step S2). In this process, data stored in various storage areas of the RAM 33 is cleared.

  Next, the CPU 31 performs a bonus operation monitoring process which will be described later with reference to FIG. 19 (step S3). In this process, when the BB operating flag is on, it is checked whether or not to operate the RB. Next, the CPU 31 performs medal acceptance / start check processing (step S4). In this process, the insertion number counter or the like is updated based on input checks of the insertion medal sensor 22S and the bet switches 11S, 12S, and 13S, and input of the start switch 6S is checked. Next, the CPU 31 extracts a random value and stores it in the random value storage area (step S5). In this process, random number values are extracted by the random number generator 36 and the sampling circuit 37 and stored in the random value storage area of the RAM 33.

  Next, the CPU 31 performs a gaming state monitoring process (step S6). In this process, if the RB operating flag is on, an identifier (so-called flag) indicating the RB gaming state is stored in the RAM 33, and if the RB operating flag is off, an identifier indicating the general gaming state is stored in the RAM 33. . Next, the CPU 31 performs an internal lottery process which will be described later with reference to FIG. 20 (step S7). In this process, it is determined which random number value stored in the random value storage area belongs to a plurality of numerical ranges defined in the internal lottery table, and the internal winning combination is determined based on the determination result. It is determined.

  Next, the CPU 31 performs RT game number counter update processing (step S8). The RT game number counter is a counter for counting the number of unit games performed during RT operation. In this process, it is determined whether or not the RT game number counter is 0. When it is determined that the RT game number counter is not 0, the RT game number counter is decremented by 1. As a result of this subtraction, it is determined whether or not the RT game number counter has become 0, and when it is determined that the RT game number counter has become 0, the RT operating flag is cleared. Next, the CPU 31 transmits a start command to the sub control circuit 72 (step S9). The start command includes data such as an internal winning combination and a gaming state. Next, the CPU 31 performs a rotating cylinder stop initial setting process (step S10). In this process, a stop table determination table (not shown) is referred to, and a stop table is determined based on each internal winning combination storing area.

  When 4.1 seconds have elapsed from the start of rotation of the previous reels 3L, 3C, and 3R (steps S11 and S12), the CPU 31 requests rotation start of all reels (step S13). When the start of rotation of all reels is requested, processing for starting rotation of the reels is performed in an interrupt process (see FIG. 25) described later. When the rotation of all the reels 3L, 3C, 3R reaches a constant speed, an identifier indicating that the pressing operation of each stop button 7L, 7C, 7R is effective is stored in the RAM 33, and the pressing operation is validated. Done. Next, the CPU 31 performs a reel stop control process which will be described later with reference to FIG. 22 (step S14). In this process, a process for stopping the rotation of all the reels 3L, 3C, 3R is performed.

  Next, the CPU 31 refers to the symbol combination table and performs a process of determining a display combination or the like based on the symbol combination displayed along the active line (step S15). In this process, a combination of symbols specified in the symbol combination table and a symbol displayed by the display windows 4L, 4C, 4R (more precisely, three symbols arranged along the effective lines 8a to 8e). The combination) is compared to determine whether or not they match. When they match, the corresponding display combination and the number of payouts are determined, and the display combination storage area and the payout number counter are updated. If they do not match, the data stored in each display combination storage area is “0”, and the display combination is lost. In this way, when the rotation of all the reels is stopped by the stop control means, it is determined whether or not a prize is won based on the combination of symbols displayed by the symbol display means, and a privilege is given to the player. Is done.

  Next, the CPU 31 transmits a display combination command to the sub control circuit 72 (step S16). The display combination command includes data such as the determined display combination. Next, the CPU 31 performs medal payout processing (step S17). In this process, the hopper 40 is controlled and the credit counter is updated based on the payout number counter. Next, the CPU 31 updates the bonus end number counter based on the payout number (step S18). In this process, on the condition that the bonus end number counter is 1 or more, a value corresponding to the payout number is subtracted from the counter.

  Next, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the BB operating flag is on (step S19). When determining that the BB operating flag is on, the CPU 31 performs a bonus end check process described later with reference to FIG. 24 (step S20). In this process, a process for terminating the operation of the bonus game is performed on the basis of whether or not various counters stored in the RAM 33 are updated to 0 when the bonus game is operated. The CPU 31 performs a bonus operation check process which will be described later with reference to FIG. 23 after step S18 or when it is determined in step S17 that none of the BB operating flags is on (step S21). . In this process, based on the determined type of display combination, a process for starting the operation of the bonus is performed, and the process returns to step S2.

  In this reel stop control process, every time an effective stop button is pressed, a reel stop command that is a command for notifying that the reel stop control is performed together with the type of the stop button is transmitted to the sub-control circuit 72. Is done.

  Next, the bonus operation monitoring process will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the BB operating flag is on (step S31). When the CPU 31 determines that the BB operating flag is not on, the CPU 31 ends the bonus operation monitoring process. When determining that the BB operating flag is on, the CPU 31 determines whether the RB operating flag is on (step S32). When the CPU 31 determines that the RB operating flag is on, it ends the bonus operation monitoring process.

  When the CPU 31 determines in step S32 that the RB operating flag is not ON, the CPU 31 performs RB operating processing based on the bonus operating table (step S33). Thus, in this embodiment, if the BB operating flag is on, the RB operation is immediately started in the next unit game even if the RB operation ends, and if the BB is operating, the RB operation is started. Is configured to be performed continuously. When this process ends, the bonus operation monitoring process ends.

  Next, an internal lottery process will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, the CPU 31 determines the type of the internal lottery table and the number of lotteries based on the internal lottery table determination table (step S91). Next, the CPU 31 performs an internal lottery table changing process which will be described later with reference to FIG. 21 (step S92). Next, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the carryover combination storage area is 0 (step S93). When CPU 31 determines that the carryover combination storage area is not 0, that is, BB is stored, it changes the number of lotteries to 4 (step S94). As a result, when there is a carryover combination, the BB is not determined redundantly.

  After step S94 or when the carryover combination storage area is 0 in step S93, that is, when BB is not stored, the CPU 31 sets the same value as the number of lotteries as the winning number (step S95). Next, the CPU 31 stores the random number value stored in the random value storage area, the lower limit value and the upper limit value corresponding to the setting value stored in the setting value storage area and the winning number defined in the internal lottery table. Are compared (step S96). Next, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the random number value is not less than the lower limit value and not more than the upper limit value (step S97). If the CPU 31 determines in step S97 that the random number value is greater than or equal to the lower limit value and greater than or equal to the upper limit value, it stores the winning number in the winning number storage area (step S98).

  Next, the CPU 31 subtracts 1 from the number of lotteries (step S99). Then, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the number of lotteries is 0 (step S100). When the CPU 31 determines that the number of lotteries is not 0, the CPU 31 proceeds to step S95. When determining that the number of lotteries is 0, the CPU 31 refers to the internal winning combination determination table and determines an internal winning combination based on the winning number (step S101). Then, a logical product of the internal winning combination and bonus check data is calculated, and the logical sum of the carryover combination storage area (FIG. 14) is stored in the carryover combination storage area (step S102). Then, the logical sum of the internal winning combination storage area (FIG. 13) and the carryover combination storage area is stored in the carryover combination storage area (step S103).

  Next, an internal lottery table change process will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the RT operating flag is on (step S111). When the CPU 31 determines that the RT operating flag is on, that is, the RT is operating, the CPU 31 changes the general gaming state internal lottery table to the RT operating internal lottery table (step S112). When this process ends, the internal lottery table change process ends.

  Next, the reel stop control process will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, the CPU 31 determines whether or not a valid stop button 7L, 7C, or 7R has been pressed (step S131). When determining that the effective stop button 7L, 7C, or 7R is not pressed, the CPU 31 repeats the process of step S131. When so-called automatic stop is performed, it may be determined whether or not a predetermined time (for example, 30 seconds) has elapsed since the start switch 6S was turned on. When the CPU 31 determines in step S131 that the effective stop button 7L, 7C, or 7R has been pressed, the CPU 31 specifies the type of the stop button 7L, 7C, or 7R that has been pressed, and the corresponding stop button 7L, 7C. Alternatively, the 7R pressing operation is invalidated (step S132). That is, an identifier indicating that the pressing operation of the corresponding stop button 7L, 7C or 7R is invalid is stored in the RAM 33.

  Next, the CPU 31 determines the number of sliding symbols based on a predetermined symbol counter, the type of the stop button 7L, 7C or 7R, and the stop table (step S133). That is, the amount of movement of the symbol position is the number of sliding symbols (including 0).

  Next, the CPU 31 shifts to a stop control position waiting (step S134). For example, if the determined number of sliding pieces is “2” and the stop start position is “20”, the stop control position is determined to be “1”. When the stop control position is determined, a process for stopping the rotation of the reel is performed based on the stop control position in an interrupt process (see FIG. 25) described later. It should be noted that the number of sliding pieces and the stop control position are in an equivalent relationship because when one is determined, the other is also determined.

  Next, the CPU 31 determines whether or not there is a stop button 7L, 7C or 7R for which the pressing operation is valid (step S135). If the CPU 31 determines that there is a stop button 7L, 7C or 7R for which the pressing operation is valid, the CPU 31 proceeds to step S131. If the CPU 31 determines that there is no stop button 7L, 7C, or 7R for which the pressing operation is valid, the reel stop control process is terminated.

  Next, the bonus operation check process will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the display combination is BB (step S151). When it is determined that the display combination is BB, the CPU 31 performs a bonus operation time process based on the bonus operation time table (step S152). The carryover combination storage area is cleared (step S153). Next, the CPU 31 transmits a bonus start command to the sub-control circuit 72 to notify the start of the bonus game (step S154), and determines whether or not the RT operating flag is on (step S155). When the RT operating flag is on and the RT is operating, the RT operating flag is turned off and the RT game number counter is cleared (step S156). That is, winning a BB is a condition for canceling the RT operation.

  Further, when the display combination is not BB (N in step S151), the CPU 31 determines whether or not the display combination is cherry (step S157). When the display combination is cherry, it is determined whether or not the RT operating flag is on (step S158). When the RT operating flag is on and the RT is operating, the RT operating flag is turned off and the RT game number counter is cleared (step S159). That is, the winning of the cherry is a condition for canceling the RT operation.

  Next, the bonus end check process will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, the CPU 31 determines whether or not a winning is established (step S161). When determining that a winning has been established, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the bonus end number counter for managing the number of medals required for the end of the bonus is 0 (step S162). When the CPU 31 determines that the bonus end number counter is 0, the bonus game has ended, so the RT operation flag is turned on, 1000 is stored in the RT game number counter (step S163), and the RT operation is performed. Start. Then, processing at the end of BB is performed (step S164). Specifically, the BB operating flag in the operating flag storage area is turned off, and the bonus end number counter is cleared. Then, a bonus end command is transmitted (step S165).

  If the bonus end number counter is not 0 in step S172, the winning possible number counter for managing the number of winnings in the bonus is decremented by 1 (step S166). Then, it is determined whether or not the winning possible number counter is 0 (step S167). If the winning count counter is not 0, 1 is subtracted from the possible gaming count counter for managing the number of games in the bonus (step S168). Then, it is determined whether or not the possible game number counter is 0 (step S169). When the possible game number counter is 0 or the possible winning number counter is 0, processing at the end of RB is performed (step S170). Specifically, the RB operating flag in the operating flag storage area is turned off, and the winning possible number counter and the possible gaming number counter are cleared.

  Next, with reference to FIG. 25, a description will be given of an interrupt process with a period of 1.1173 ms, which is performed under the control of the CPU 31 of the main control circuit 71.

  First, the CPU 31 saves the register (step S191). Next, the CPU 31 performs an input port check process (step S192). Specifically, the CPU 31 checks the input of signals from each switch. Next, the CPU 31 performs a reel control process (step S193). Specifically, if a reel rotation start request is made, the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R start to rotate and rotate at a constant speed. If the stop control position is determined, when the symbol counter of the reel is updated to the same value as the stop control position, the rotation is decelerated and stopped. For example, if the symbol counter is “0” and the stop control position is “4”, the reel rotation is stopped when the symbol counter is updated to “4”.

  Next, the CPU 31 performs a lamp / 7SEG drive process (step S194). Specifically, the CPU 31 performs processing such as lighting of the bet lamps 9a, 9b, and 9c based on the insertion number counter and display of the number of payouts on the information display unit 18. Next, the CPU 31 restores the register (step S195). When this process ends, the interrupt process with a cycle of 1.1173 ms ends.

[Control operation of sub-control circuit]
Next, the control operation by the sub control circuit 72 will be described.

  First, various tables used in the control operation by the sub control circuit 72 will be described.

  FIG. 26 is an explanatory diagram of a grant point determination table.

  The grant point determination table is used for determining an updated value of the cherry notification number counter by lottery according to an effect identifier for specifying effect data (animation data, LED data, sound data described later) in a special effect determination table described later. It is a table. The cherry notification frequency counter is a counter that is prepared in a predetermined area of the work RAM 214 and manages the number of times that the player is informed of the internal winning of the cherry by the effect. For example, in the case of production 201, 2 is determined as the update value of the cherry notification number counter with a lottery probability of 116/128, and 4 is determined as the update value of the cherry notification number counter with a lottery probability of 5/128.

  FIG. 27 is an explanatory diagram of an effect determination table for BB.

  The effect determination table for BB is a table in which lottery probabilities for determining effect identifiers for specifying effect data (animation data, LED data, sound data described later) by lottery according to the internal winning combination during the bonus game are registered. is there. For example, if the internal winning combination is cherry, the effect identifier of the effect 301 is determined with a lottery probability of 64/128, and the effect identifier of the effect 302 is determined with a lottery probability of 64/128.

  FIG. 28 is an explanatory diagram of a general gaming state effect content determination table.

  The general game state effect content determination table is a table in which a lottery probability for determining an effect content identifier specifying the effect content (effect determination table) by lottery according to the internal winning combination is registered. For example, if the internal winning combination is cherry, the normal effect is determined as an effect content identifier with a lottery probability of 96/128. The effect content identifier of special effect is determined with a lottery probability of 4/128 only in the case of “losing” that does not win any combination. The normal effect corresponds to a later-described normal effect determination table A, and the special effect corresponds to a later-described special effect determination table.

  FIG. 29 is an explanatory diagram of the normal performance determination table A.

  The normal effect determination table A is a table for determining the effect identifier by lottery according to the internal winning combination. For example, if the internal winning combination is cherry, the production identifier 102 is determined with a lottery probability of 32/128, the production identifier 103 is determined with a lottery probability of 64/128, and the production identifier 104 is determined with a lottery probability of 32/128. It is determined. “No production” indicates that no production is performed. The normal effect determination table A corresponds to the normal effect of the effect content identifier.

  FIG. 30 is an explanatory diagram of the normal performance determination table B.

  The normal effect determination table B is also a table for determining the effect identifier by lottery according to the internal winning combination. The contents are the same as those in the normal performance determination table A except when the internal winning combination is cherry. In the normal effect determination table B, “no effect” is always determined when the internal winning combination is cherry.

  FIG. 31 is an explanatory diagram of the normal performance determination table C.

  The normal effect determination table C is also a table for determining the effect identifier by lottery according to the internal winning combination. The contents are the same as those in the normal performance determination table A except when the internal winning combination is cherry. In the normal effect determination table B, the effect 105 is always determined when the internal winning combination is cherry.

  FIG. 32 is an explanatory diagram of a special effect determination table.

  The special effect determination table is a table for determining the effect identifier of the special effect by lottery. For example, the production 201 is determined with a lottery probability of 16/128. The production 202 is determined with a lottery probability of 16/128. Each production identifier of the special production is stored in association with which one of the stop control positions of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R is to be stopped by the first stop operation in the three consecutive games. ing. For example, for the production 201, “red 7”, “red 7”, and “red 7” are registered as the first stop operations of the first game, the second game, and the third game of three consecutive games, respectively. As for the effect 202, “red 7”, “red 7”, and “blue 7” are registered as the first stop operations of the first game, the second game, and the third game of the three consecutive games, respectively. An effect management counter is prepared in a predetermined area of the work RAM 214. The effect management counter is a counter that manages effects executed in the three consecutive games. Then, even if any effect identifier is selected in the special effect determination table, 3 is set as the value of the effect management counter. The symbols of the stop control positions registered in the special effect determination table are “red 7” or “blue 7”, but “blue 7” is prepared only for the left reel (reel 3L). Generally, the player usually stops the left reel (reel 3L) for the first time. In this case, “blue 7” can be stopped for the first time.

  Next, the specific content of the control operation by the sub control circuit 72 will be described with reference to a flowchart.

  First, the main board communication task will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, the image control microcomputer 212 receives a command from the main control circuit 71 (step S301). Then, the command type is extracted (step S302). Next, it is determined whether or not this command is different from that received last time (step S303). If the received command is different from the previous command, a message such as information on the command is stored in the message queue of the work RAM 214 (step S304), and the process returns to step S301. Even when the received command is the same as the previous command (N in step S303), the process returns to step S301.

  Next, the effect registration task will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, the image control microcomputer 212 takes out a message stored in the message queue (step S321). When this message is present (Y in step S322), various game information is copied from the message (step S323), and an effect content determination process described later with reference to FIG. 35 is performed (step S324). In the effect content determination process, the content of the effect to be executed is determined.

  Then, the image control microcomputer 212 registers animation data (step S325). The animation data is image data related to the image effect displayed on the liquid crystal display device 5 among the effect data for performing the effect, and is stored in the image ROM 222. Here, the animation data determined in the effect content determination process is registered, and thereby the image control IC 221 performs an image effect based on the registered animation data. Further, the image control microcomputer 212 registers LED data and sound data (step S326). The LED data is light emission pattern data related to a lamp effect that causes the LED 101 to emit light among effect data for performing an effect, and is stored in the program ROM 233. By registering the LED data determined in the effect content determination process, the sound / lamp control microcomputer 232 causes the LED 101 to emit light according to the light emission pattern of the LED data. Also, the sound data is audio data related to the audio production output from the speakers 21R and 21L among the production data for performing the production, and is stored in the sound source ROM 235. By registering the sound data determined in the effect content determination process, the sound / lamp control microcomputer 232 outputs sound from the speakers 21R and 21L by the sound source IC 236.

  Next, the effect content determination process will be described with reference to FIG. The effect content determination process is a process for determining the content of the effect to be executed based on the game information copied from the message.

  First, when a start command is received from the main control circuit 71 (Y in step S341), an effect lottery process described later with reference to FIGS. 36 and 37 is performed (step S342). When the reel stop command is received from the main control circuit 71 (Y in step S343), a point addition process described later with reference to FIGS. 38 to 40 is performed (step S344).

  When a display command is received from the main control circuit 71 (Y in step S345), effect data is set according to the type such as a display combination (step S346). When a bonus start command is received from the main control circuit 71 (Y in step S347), the sub control circuit 72 sets the BB gaming state (sub) (step S348), and starts a bonus game that produces the start of the bonus game. Production data is set (step S349).

  When the bonus end command is received from the main control circuit 71 (Y in step S350), the general control state (sub) is also set in the sub control circuit 72 (step S351), and the bonus game end that produces the end of the bonus game is produced. Effect data is set (step S352). Then, an effect is executed based on the effect data (animation data, LED data, sound data) set in this way (step S353).

  Next, the effect lottery process will be described with reference to FIGS.

  First, when the BB gaming state (sub) is set in the sub control circuit 72 (Y in step S371), the effect identifier is determined based on the internal winning combination with reference to the BB effect determination table (step S371). S372).

  When the BB gaming state (sub) is not set (N in step S371), that is, in the general gaming state, it is determined whether the RT operating flag is on, that is, whether RT is operating ( Step S373) When the RT operating flag is on and the RT is operating, it is determined whether or not the value of the cherry notification number counter is 0 (Step S374). With reference to, an effect identifier is determined based on the internal winning combination (step S375). Then, when the determined effect identifier is the effect 105 (Y in step S376), 1 is subtracted from the value of the cherry notification number counter (step S377). The effect 105 is an effect identifier of an effect that informs the player that the internal winning combination is cherry, and a value of a cherry notification number counter that manages the number of executions of the effect as the effect is executed once. 1 is subtracted.

  When the value of the cherry notification frequency counter is 0 (Y in step S374), the effect identifier is determined based on the internal winning combination with reference to the effect determination table B (step S375). That is, in this case, the effect of notifying the player that the internal winning combination is cherry is not performed.

  On the other hand, when the RT operating flag is OFF in the general gaming state (N in Step S373), that is, when the RT is not operating, it is determined whether or not the internal winning combination is lost (Step S379). . Then, when the internal winning combination is lost, it is determined whether or not the production management counter is 0 (step S379). When the internal winning combination is lost and the production management counter is 0, or when the internal winning combination is not lost, it is determined whether or not the special production flag is on (step S381). When the special effect flag is OFF, the effect content identifier is determined based on the internal winning combination with reference to the general game state effect content determination table (step S382). If the determined effect content identifier is a special effect (Y in step S383), the effect identifier is determined by lottery with reference to the special effect determination table (step S386), and a later-described stop position game is in progress. The special effect flag, which is a flag indicating this, is turned on, and 3 is set in the effect management counter (step S387).

  Here, the special effect whose effect identifier is determined by the special effect determination table is as shown in FIG. That is, when RT is not operating in the general gaming state (steps S371, S373), a special effect may be executed (steps S383, S386), and when this special effect is executed, the game will be described as described later. The player is given points according to which of the symbols (the symbol of the center line 8b) of the stop control position of the reels 3L, 3C, or 3R stopped first during three consecutive games including A stop position game can be played. This stop position game competes which symbol is displayed at the stop control position (center line 8b) at the first stop in each of the three consecutive games. , "Which path (reel) do you want to pass?"

  When the special effect flag is on (Y in step S381), or when the determined effect content identifier is a normal effect (N in step S383), the effect identifier is determined by lottery with reference to the effect determination table A. Determination is made (step S384).

  Then, the effect data is set based on the effect identifier determined as described above (step S385).

  Next, the point addition process will be described with reference to FIGS.

  The point addition process is performed when the special effect flag is on (step S401) and the effect identifier of the special effect is determined. The point addition process is a process of performing a stop position game that continues for three consecutive games including the game when the special effect in FIG. 43 is executed. As described above, the stop position game is played when the special effect is performed. Such a special effect is executed when the internal winning combination is lost (see FIG. 28). In other words, the stop position game is played when the internal winning combination is lost. This is because the stop position game competes for which symbol the stop control position is in the first stop, and the internal winning combination is lost. This is because the symbols “red 7” and “blue 7” may not be used as the stop control position even when the timing of the stationary operation is appropriate.

  That is, the stop control position (design) of the reel 3L, 3C or 3R where the first stop operation has been performed is stored in the work RAM 214 (step S402). If the value of the effect management counter is 3 (Y in step S403), the reel stop control position of the first game corresponding to the effect identifier determined as described above in the special effect determination table, and the step The stop control position of the reel that has been operated for the first stop stored in S402 is collated (step S404). If the matching results match (Y in step S405), the player has correctly determined the type of the reel stop control position of the first game, and the subsequent stop position game is continued, so the effect data for continuation is set. (Step S406), the effect for continuation shown in FIG. 43 is performed. In the effect for continuation, since the player has correctly answered the type of the stop control position of the first game, the message “Correct! Proceed to next” is displayed. Then, the effect management counter is decremented by 1 (step S407).

  If the collation results do not match (N in step S405), the player is incorrect in the type of stop control position of the first game and ends the subsequent stop position game, so the effect data for termination is set ( Step S408), an end effect shown in FIG. 44 is performed. Then, the special effect flag is turned off, and the effect management counter is cleared (step S409).

  If the value of the effect management counter is 2 (Y in step S410), the reel stop control position of the second game held by the effect identifier determined as described above in the special effect determination table and the first stop operation are performed. The type of the reel stop control position is collated (step S411). If the matching results match (Y in step S412), the effect data for continuation is set (step S413), and the effect for continuation shown in FIG. 43 is performed. In the effect for continuation, since the player corrects the type of the stop control position of the reel of the second game, the message “Correct! Proceed to next” is displayed. Then, the effect management counter is decremented by 1 (step S414).

  If the collation results do not match (N in step S412), the player is inaccurate in the type of the stop control position of the reel of the second game, and the subsequent stop position game is ended. (Step S415), the effect for ending shown in FIG. 44 is performed. Then, the special effect flag is turned off, and the effect management counter is cleared (step S416).

  If the value of the effect management counter is 1 (N in step S410), the type of the stop control position of the reel of the third game held by the effect identifier determined as described above in the special effect determination table and the first stop The type of the stop control position of the operated reel is collated (step S417). If the matching results match (Y in step S418), success effect data is set (step S419), and the success effect shown in FIG. 42 is performed. In the stop position game, when all the first to third games are correctly answered, the answer is finally correct, and points are given to the player, and the game ends. Since the effect data for success is finally correct in the stop position game and is executed when points are awarded, a message “Get points!” Is displayed. Then, the effect management counter is decremented by 1 (step S420). As a result, the value of the production management counter becomes zero.

  Then, with reference to the grant point determination table, the update value of the cherry notification count counter is determined by lottery, and the value of the cherry notification count counter is updated with this updated value (the updated value is added to the existing value of the cherry notification count counter). (Step S421).

  If the collation results do not match (N in step S418), the player is inaccurate in the type of the stop control position of the reel of the third game and ends the stop position game. In step S422), an end effect shown in FIG. 44 is performed. Then, the special effect flag is turned off, and the effect management counter is cleared (step S423).

  As described above, in the gaming machine 1, in the general gaming state, the probability of replay is higher when the RT is operating than when the RT is not operating (see FIGS. 7 and 8). It can be said that it is relatively advantageous for the player compared to when the player is not operating. This RT operation starts with the end of the bonus game and continues for 1000 games (steps S162 and S163), but when winning a cherry, it ends even during the 1000 games (steps S157 to S159), so the profit of the game hall And the player's profit can be balanced.

  In addition, when an internal winning is given to the cherry during the operation of the RT, an effect of notifying the player that the internal winning is given to the cherry is performed based on the production data of the production 105, so that a player who has at least a skill must win the cherry. Thus, the RT operation which is advantageous to the self can be continued for a long time.

  The number of executions of the effect for informing that the cherry is internally won varies depending on the value of the cherry notification number counter updated by the result of the stop position game in the general gaming state where RT is not operating (step S374). ~ S377), the greater the value of the cherry notification count counter, the greater the chance that the player can avoid winning a cherry while the RT is operating, and the higher the possibility that the RT can be continued for a longer time.

  In the stop position game, as the gaming experience is accumulated, the reel set as the first stop operation of the first game, the second game, and the third game for each of the special effects of the effects 201 to 208 appearing in the special effects. You can learn the type of stop control position, and if you increase your skill so that you can stop control of "Red 7" and "Blue 7" at the desired stop control position, you will correctly answer the stop position game and notify the cherry Since the value of the number counter can be increased, the player can concentrate on the stop position game and increase the interest of the game.

  In the above example, one stop position game is played for three consecutive games. However, four or more games may be continued, or one game or two games may be used.

  Furthermore, in the above-described stop position game, as the order of the stop operation, the player hits which reel stop control position the first stop operation of the first game, the second game, and the third game is, The second stop operation or the third stop operation may be applied, or all of the first stop operation, the second stop operation, and the third stop operation for each of the first game, the second game, and the third game. You may make it hit.

1 is a perspective view showing an overview of a gaming machine that is an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. It is a top view of each display part of a gaming machine. It is a block diagram which shows the whole structure of the control circuit of a game machine. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the sub control circuit of a game machine. It is a block diagram which shows the symbol arrangement | positioning table of a gaming machine. It is a figure which shows the internal lottery table determination table of a gaming machine. It is a figure which shows the internal lottery table of the game machine for general game states. It is a figure which shows the internal lottery table of the gaming machine for RT operation. It is a figure which shows the internal lottery table of the game machine for RB operation | movement. It is a figure which shows the internal winning kill determination table of a gaming machine. It is a figure which shows the symbol combination table of a gaming machine. It is a figure which shows the bonus operation time table of a gaming machine. It is a figure which shows an internal winning combination storing area. It is a figure which shows a carryover combination storage area. It is a figure which shows the operating flag storage area. It is a figure which shows a game state storage area. It is a figure which shows the flowchart of the reset interruption process by main CPU. It is a figure which shows the flowchart of the reset interruption process by main CPU. It is a figure which shows the flowchart of a bonus action | operation monitoring process. It is a figure which shows the flowchart of an internal lottery process. It is a figure which shows the flowchart of an internal lottery table change process. It is a figure which shows the flowchart of a reel stop control process. It is a figure which shows the flowchart of a bonus action check process. It is a figure which shows the flowchart of a bonus completion | finish check process. It is a figure which shows the flowchart of the interruption process of a 1.1173 msec period. It is explanatory drawing of a provision point determination table. It is explanatory drawing of the production determination table for BB. It is explanatory drawing of the production content determination table for general gaming states. It is explanatory drawing of production determination table A. FIG. It is explanatory drawing of production determination table B. FIG. It is an explanatory view of the effect determination table C. It is explanatory drawing of a special production | presentation determination table. It is a figure which shows the flowchart of a main board | substrate communication task. It is a figure which shows the flowchart of an effect registration task. It is explanatory drawing of effect content determination processing. It is explanatory drawing of effect lottery processing. It is explanatory drawing of effect lottery processing. It is explanatory drawing of a point addition process. It is explanatory drawing of a point addition process. It is explanatory drawing of a point addition process. It is explanatory drawing of the image of special production. It is explanatory drawing of the image of the effect data for success. It is explanatory drawing of the image of effect data for continuation. It is explanatory drawing of the image of the effect data for completion | finish.

Explanation of symbols

1 gaming machine 3L, 3C, 3R reel 21L, 21C, 21R

Claims (5)

A symbol display means having a plurality of symbol display areas each displaying a plurality of symbols;
A winning combination defining means for defining a plurality of winning combinations including the first combination;
A symbol combination defining unit that defines a combination of symbols displayed in each symbol display area corresponding to each of the plurality of winning combinations defined by the winning combination defining unit;
Start operation detecting means for detecting the start operation;
A winning combination lottery means for selecting a winning combination by lottery from among the winning combinations defined by the winning combination defining means triggered by detection of the start operation performed by the start operation detecting means;
A winning combination determining means for determining a winning combination based on the lottery by the winning combination lottery means;
A symbol change means for changing a symbol displayed by the symbol display means triggered by detection of a start operation performed by the start operation detection means;
Stop operation detecting means for detecting the stop operation;
Stop control means for stopping and controlling the variation of the symbol performed by the symbol variation means based on the winning combination determined by the winning combination determination means and the detection of the stop operation performed by the stop operation detection means;
Advantageous state transition means for transitioning to a relatively advantageous advantageous state according to a predetermined condition;
When the advantageous state continues for a predetermined number of unit games, or during the advantageous state, the first combination is determined as a winning combination by the winning combination determining means, and the symbol combination defining unit corresponding to the first combination When a combination of symbols defined in the above is displayed in each of the symbol display areas, a disadvantageous state transition means for transitioning to a disadvantageous state that is relatively disadvantageous compared to the advantageous state;
Numerical value storage means for storing numerical values;
When a numerical value greater than 0 is stored in the numerical value storage means during the advantageous state, when the first combination is determined as a winning combination by the winning combination determining means, the first combination is a winning combination. First effect executing means for executing a first effect to notify that there is,
Subtracting means for subtracting a numerical value stored in the numerical value storing means each time the first effect is executed by the first effect executing means;
Stop control position combination defining means for defining a plurality of types of combinations of stop control positions in a predetermined symbol display area of the plurality of symbol display areas for each of a plurality of predetermined unit games;
When a predetermined condition is satisfied, stop control position combination selecting means for selecting one of the combinations of stop control positions defined by the stop control position combination defining means;
A stop that stores the stop control position in the predetermined symbol display area when the predetermined condition is satisfied and no winning combination defined by the winning combination defining means is determined by the winning combination determining means Control position storage means;
Contrast means for comparing the difference between the combination of stop control positions selected by the stop control position combination selecting means and the stop control position stored by the stop control position storage means for each of the plurality of unit games;
Numerical value adding means for adding a numerical value larger than 0 to the numerical value storing means according to the result of the comparison by the comparing means;
A gaming machine characterized by comprising: When the predetermined condition is satisfied, the apparatus further comprises a second effect executing means for executing a second effect in the plurality of unit games,
The second effect execution means selects the content of the second effect according to the result of the comparison by the comparison means, and is selected by the stop operation order combination selection means according to the result of the comparison by the comparison means. When the combination of the stop operation order is different from the stop operation order stored by the stop operation order storage means, the second effect is ended in the unit game.
The gaming machine according to claim 1. The stop operation detecting means has a plurality of buttons corresponding to the symbol display areas, and individually operates the symbol display areas by operating the buttons.
The stop operation order combination defining means defines which one of the symbol display areas is the first stop operation performed by the plurality of buttons for each of the plurality of unit games.
The gaming machine according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that. The winning combination defining means defines a second combination relating to the operation of the bonus game,
The symbol combination defining means defines a symbol combination displayed in each symbol display area for the second combination,
The bonus game is activated when the second combination is determined by the winning combination determination means and the combination of symbols defined by the symbol combination defining means for the second combination is displayed on the symbol display means. Further comprising a bonus game operating means for
The advantageous state transition means shifts to the advantageous state on condition that the operation of the bonus game by the bonus game operation means is completed.
The gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein The winning combination defining means defines a third combination relating to the operation of the replay,
The symbol combination defining means defines combinations of symbols displayed in the symbol display areas for the third role,
When the third combination is determined by the winning combination determining means, and the combination of symbols defined by the symbol combination defining means for the third combination is displayed on the symbol display means, the replay operation is performed. Re-playing operation means for performing
When the probability that the winning combination lottery means selects the third combination by lottery is in the advantageous state, the winning combination lottery means is set higher than in the disadvantaged state, and thus the advantageous state is Relatively advantageous over the disadvantageous state,
The gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the gaming machine is characterized by that.