JP2009005934A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine giving a player an advance notice of stepup with watching varying symbols and a game machine which opens/closes patterns on reels by a mechanical shutter. <P>SOLUTION: The game machine variably displays a plurality of symbols on reels 71L, 71C, 71R and executes winning combination lottery. Furthermore, it stops and controls the variation display and selects the control classification by referring to the lottery result. Rotary shutters 75L, 75C, 75R are provided in front of the reels. Corresponding to the selection content of a stop button, a player turns and controls respective rotary shutters 75L, 75C, 75R to a state that the pattern is visually recognizable and a state that the pattern is not visually recognizable. The game machine 1 has a plurality of shield patterns for shielding the reel, and selects one shield pattern among a plurality of shield patterns by referring to the result of the control classification selected by the stop button. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2009,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine. In particular, the present invention relates to a gaming machine having a function of opening and closing a plurality of symbols for variable display with a shutter.

  Generally, slot machines or pachislot machines are known as this type of gaming machine. For example, the slot machine includes a plurality of rotating reels having a plurality of symbols arranged on the outer periphery. A combination of symbols when each reel stops is a predetermined stop mode (symbol combination: for example, a mode in which the same symbols are aligned), and a game medium such as coins or medals is paid out. It has become. Then, when winning a prize, taking into account various contingencies, the player's individual skill has an element that cannot completely control the game result.

  In order to realize the above contingency, for example, a so-called “predetermined determination” control method is employed in which a lottery by software is executed using a microcomputer and the reels are stopped according to the lottery result. Slot machines are known. For example, this type of slot machine samples a random number according to the player's start lever operation, and if the sampled random number value is included in the winning section of the winning probability table, it is determined that the winning combination is won. Thus, the winning (winning) flag of the winning combination is established.

  By the way, the state where the winning flag is established is a so-called “internal winning” state, and in this internal winning state, it is only permitted that the winning combination is arranged on the winning line. Actually, no prize has yet occurred. In order to generate a prize, it is necessary to perform a so-called “line-up” operation at a timing at which the symbols on the reel can be stopped on the prize line. If the operation timing is poor, a so-called “missing” occurs, in which no winning is generated despite the “internal winning” state.

  In order to reduce such “missing out”, that is, in order to facilitate “pushing out”, an image display device or a lamp or the like notifies that an internal winning has been made for a predetermined period, so-called “assist time ( There is a slot machine equipped with a function called "AT)". When it is a period for notifying the internal winning type called AT, it is possible to notify the player of the order of the reels to be stopped, and to correctly execute the order of the reels to be stopped, the symbol corresponding to the winning combination is obtained. It is easily aligned with the winning line, and theoretically, winning can be achieved 100% after internal winning. When entering the AT, a large amount of game media can be acquired.

  However, when the means for notifying the stop order is an image display device or a lamp, the player needs to stop the reel after confirming the suggested content notified by the image display device or the lamp. The line of sight had to be moved from the reel to the reel, and there was a problem of increased fatigue during the AT period. For this reason, a so-called electronic shutter is used so that only the reel (that is, the symbol) that should be stopped can be visually observed among a plurality of reels, and the other reels are shielded by the electronic shutter so that the symbol cannot be seen. A gaming machine is disclosed in which the reel stop order is notified (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

For example, when there are three reels, the stop button can be operated in the pressing order of “middle”, “right”, and “left” after entering the internal winning state (that is, the middle reel, First, the electronic shutters corresponding to the left and right reels are closed so that only the inner reels are visible. As a result, it can be easily determined that the player is pushing moderately. If the middle press is performed, the electronic shutter corresponding to the right reel is subsequently opened.
JP 2005-161096 A

  However, the gaming machine described in Patent Document 1 assists the reel stop order by opening and closing the electronic shutter during the AT period, that is, the state in which the internal winning type is informed. Then, the electronic shutter is used only to notify the stop order of the reels so that the player can easily win a prize.

  On the other hand, if a player gives a step-by-step notice of whether or not there is a high probability (probability) of entering a gaming state in which a large amount of gaming media can be acquired while paying attention to changing symbols, the player can concentrate on the game. As a result, the expectation for winning the prize and the interest in playing games are revealed. In other words, the gaming machine disclosed in Patent Document 1 has a so-called step-up notice using an image display device, so that it is not easy to concentrate on the game and there is a problem that interest in the game is diminished.

  In addition, if the structure of the reel that is rotated by a mechanical shutter is opened and closed without using an electronic shutter, an existing game machine that does not have a liquid crystal display device is notified of a stop order and a step-up notice. It is applicable and convenient. The above can be said to be the subject of the present invention.

  The present invention has been made in view of such a problem, and provides a gaming machine that makes a step-up notice and a gaming machine that opens and closes a reel design with a mechanical shutter while paying attention to a changing design. Objective.

  (1) Fluctuation display means for variably displaying a plurality of symbols, lottery means for executing lottery for winning combination, stop control means for stopping control of the change display, and the stop control means with reference to the result of the lottery Stop control selection means for selecting the control type, shielding means provided in front of the fluctuation display means, and a state in which the player can visually recognize the symbol according to the selection content of the stop control selection means. And a shielding control means for controlling the shielding means to change to a possible state, wherein the shielding control means shields the variation display means in response to the stop control by the stop control means. A gaming machine having a plurality of shielding patterns, wherein one shielding pattern is selected from the plurality of shielding patterns with reference to a result of a control type selected by the stop control selection means.

  The gaming machine according to the invention of (1) includes a fluctuation display means, a lottery means, a stop control means, and a stop control selection means. The fluctuation display means variably displays a plurality of symbols. The lottery means performs lottery for a winning combination. The stop control means controls to stop the fluctuation display. The stop control selection means selects the control type of the stop control means with reference to the lottery result.

  The gaming machine according to the invention of (1) includes a shielding means and a shielding control means. The shielding means is provided in front of the fluctuation display means. The shielding control unit changes and controls the shielding unit between a state in which the player can visually recognize the symbol and a state in which the player cannot visually recognize the symbol according to the selection content of the stop control selection unit.

  In the gaming machine according to the invention of (1), the shielding control means has a plurality of shielding patterns that shield the fluctuation display means in response to the stop control by the stop control means. Further, the shielding control means selects one shielding pattern from the plurality of shielding patterns with reference to the result of the control type selected by the stop control selection means.

  In the gaming machine according to the invention of (1), when lottery is executed by the lottery means, the control type of the stop control means is selected with reference to the result of the lottery. Here, the shielding control means has a plurality of shielding patterns that shield the variation display means in response to the stop control by the stop control means. When the result of the control type selected by the stop control selection means is referred to, the notice mode is set, and the shielding pattern corresponding to the selection result is selected.

  For example, when all the variable display columns are shielded, it may be considered that the expectation is the highest, and when only one variable display column is shielded, it may be considered that the expectation is the lowest, and the variation display means is shielded. By extracting and producing a plurality of shielding patterns to be performed, the establishment that a large amount of game media can be acquired can be notified step by step. For example, when the last stop button is pressed, a shielding pattern in which all the variable display rows are shielded may be considered, which can give the player interest and expectation.

  In the gaming machine according to the invention of (1), when a player performs a stop operation while gazing at a plurality of symbols, the probability of winning the control type is shielded by a stepwise shielding pattern. Since the game medium is shielded by the shielding pattern that can be acquired, there is an effect that the player can concentrate on the game and have a sense of expectation for winning and an interest in the game.

  (2) The gaming machine according to (1), wherein the variable display unit includes a liquid crystal display device, and the shielding unit includes an electronic shutter provided in front of the liquid crystal display device.

  The gaming machine according to the invention of (2) uses an electronic shutter as a shielding means and shields the symbols displayed on the liquid crystal display device with the electronic shutter, so that the symbols can be easily controlled using a microcomputer or the like. it can.

  (3) Provided with a housing that opens and closes a front door, the variation display means includes a reel unit having a plurality of reels housed inside the housing and displaying the plurality of symbols, and the shielding means includes A rotating shutter having an arc-shaped shielding piece that can be opened and closed in front of the reel facing the display window provided on the front door, and a driving means for rotating the rotating shutter, The shielding control means is configured to control the rotation of the rotary shutter by the driving means in an open state in which the player can visually recognize the symbol and a closed state in which the player cannot visually recognize the symbol according to the selection content of the stop control selection means. The gaming machine according to (1), which is characterized.

  In the gaming machine according to the invention of (3), the arc-shaped shielding piece is arranged between the reel and the display window, and the rotary shutter is rotated so that the symbols are selectively shielded (opened / closed). In an existing game machine that does not use a liquid crystal display device, there is an effect that a stop order can be notified and a step-up notice can be made by simply replacing the reel unit.

  (4) The drive means includes a motor disposed inside the reel, a first timing pulley supported on the output shaft of the motor, and a second timing pulley supported on the output shaft of the rotary shutter. The gaming machine according to (3), further comprising a timing belt around which the first timing pulley and the second timing pulley are wound.

  In the gaming machine according to the invention of (4), the rotary shaft of the rotary shutter is arranged coaxially with the reel, and the second timing pulley that is a driven vehicle of the rotary shaft of the rotary shutter is supported. On the other hand, a first timing pulley serving as a driving vehicle is supported on the output shaft of the motor. The first timing pulley and the second timing pulley are wound around an endless timing belt. In the winding transmission device configured as described above, these components may be arranged inside the reel, and a compact mechanical shutter can be realized. Further, the timing belt on which the tooth surface is formed has a characteristic that the remote transmission is reliable.

  According to the present invention, in the advance notice mode, when the player performs a stop operation, the symbol is shielded by the shielding pattern according to the lottery result, so whether or not the player is likely to win. There is an effect that it can be known before entering the AT mode, the player has a sense of expectation that the probability of winning is high, and the interest in the game can be improved.

  The best mode for carrying out the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

  FIG. 1 is a perspective external view showing an embodiment of a gaming machine according to the present invention. FIG. 1 shows a slot machine with a stop button, which is an example of a gaming machine, a so-called pachislot gaming machine. In FIG. 1, a gaming machine 1 has a front door 3 attached to a housing 2 that is a box-shaped cabinet so as to be freely opened and closed. On the upper part of the front door 3, a gaming state display lamp 4 that emits and flashes in different display forms when a bonus game occurs or an error occurs, and a sound effect or an error sound during the game are output. A pair of speakers 5L and 5R, and a payout table 6 on which the number of payouts of each winning combination and simple game description are described are provided. A panel display unit 7 having a substantially vertical surface is provided at the center of the front door 3.

  A 1-BET switch 8, a 2-BET switch 9, and a MAXBET switch 10 are provided at the lower left of the panel display unit 7. The 1-BET switch 8 bets one coin on the game by one pressing operation on the condition that the coin is credited, and the 2-BET switch 9 has two coins by one pressing operation. Is bet on the game, and the MAXBET switch 10 is pressed once, and three coins, which is the maximum number that can be bet on one game, are bet on the game. By operating these BET switches, a predetermined pay line is activated. In addition, a coin insertion slot 11 for inserting coins is provided at the lower right of the panel display unit 7.

  A C / P (credit / payout) switch 12 is provided on the left side of the central portion of the front door 3 to switch whether a player credits a coin acquired in the game or receives a payout by operating a push button. By switching the C / P switch 12, coins are paid out to the coin payout opening 17 at the bottom of the front door 3. Then, the paid-out coins are stored in the coin tray 16. On the right side of the C / P switch 12, a start lever 13 is rotatably provided within a predetermined angle range. When the start lever 13 is operated by the player, the reels arranged inside the panel display unit 7 start to rotate all at once.

  At the center of the front door 3, a stop operation unit 14 is provided for stopping each of the rotating reels. The stop operation unit 14 constitutes stop means. The stop operation unit 14 includes a left stop button 15L, a middle stop button 15C, and a right stop button 15R, and the player can arbitrarily determine the order of stopping these stop buttons 15L, 15C, and 15R.

  Generally, the stop operation performed when all the reels are rotating is the “first stop operation”, the next stop operation is the “second stop operation”, and the last stop operation is the “third stop operation”. " In the present embodiment, operating the left stop button 15L as the first stop operation is referred to as “forward press”, and operating the middle stop button 15C as the first stop operation is referred to as “intermediate press”. Operating the right stop button 15R as a stop operation is referred to as “reverse pressing”.

  Further, in the case of a gaming machine having three stop buttons, the stop operation order is six types in total. Therefore, the left stop button 15L is operated as the first stop operation, the middle stop button 15C is operated as the second stop operation, and the right stop button 15R is operated as the third stop operation. " Operating the middle stop button 15C as the first stop operation, operating the left stop button 15L as the second stop operation, and operating the right stop button 15R as the third stop operation are referred to as “middle left and right press”.

  Further, operating the middle stop button 15C as the first stop operation, operating the right stop button 15R as the second stop operation, and operating the left stop button 15L as the third stop operation are referred to as “middle right and left push”. Operation of the left stop button 15L as the first stop operation, operation of the right stop button 15R as the second stop operation, and operation of the middle stop button 15C as the third stop operation are referred to as “left and right middle press”. Operation of the right stop button 15R as the first stop operation, operation of the left stop button 15L as the second stop operation, and operation of the middle stop button 15C as the third stop operation are referred to as “right / left middle press”. Operation of the right stop button 15R as the first stop operation, operation of the middle stop button 15C as the second stop operation, and operation of the left stop button 15L as the third stop operation are referred to as “right / middle / left press”.

  FIG. 2 is a longitudinal sectional view of a panel display unit provided in the gaming machine according to the embodiment. In FIG. 2, the panel display unit 7 is formed of a transparent acrylic plate. On the inner surface side of the panel display unit 7, a pattern sheet 20 on which various patterns are printed on a transparent film material, an effect display unit 21 including a transparent liquid crystal display device such as ITO, and a liquid crystal film are also included. The electronic shutter unit 22 is stacked. At the upper and lower portions on the inner surface side of the panel display unit 7, there are provided cold cathode tubes 23 that function as a backlight for liquid crystal display and an illumination device that illuminates the symbols on the reel 24.

  In the embodiment shown in FIG. 2, the effect display unit is configured by the panel display unit 7, the image sheet 20, the effect display unit, and the electronic shutter unit 22. The symbol drawn at 20 is a symbol that is always visible to the player regardless of the effect control state of the gaming machine 1. The effect display unit is a display area for image effects such as jackpot effects and various notice effects. The electronic shutter unit 22 switches between transmission / shielding for a predetermined area according to the voltage application state, that is, through the panel display unit 7 to switch between a state in which the symbol of the reel 24 can be visually recognized and a state in which the symbol cannot be visually recognized. The effect executed in (1) can be switched between normal display (the state where the reel 24 is shielded by the electronic shutter and only the effect display is visible) and translucent display (the rear reel symbol is visible through the effect display). Is possible.

  FIG. 3 is a front view of a panel display unit provided in the gaming machine according to the embodiment. In FIG. 3, a left reel 24L, a middle reel 24C, and a right reel 24R, which are variable display means, are provided in the center of the panel display unit 7. On the right side of the front panel, various game status display lamps and a 7-segment display unit are provided.

  In FIG. 3, the REPLAY lamp 30 is lit when a replay is won in the current game. The WAIT lamp 31 is turned on when the operation of the start lever 13 in the current game has not elapsed for 4.1 seconds since the previous game operation, and informs that the WAIT time is being consumed. The WIN lamp 32 lights up with a predetermined probability when the bonus winning combination is internally won, and notifies that the bonus has been internally won 100% reliably.

  In FIG. 3, the start lamp 36 is turned on when a betting operation such as a coin insertion operation or various BET switches is performed and the operation acceptance of the start lever 13 is validated. The bonus information display unit 33 mainly notifies the progress status of the bonus game, such as displaying the remaining number of games that can be played in the general game in the BB.

  In FIG. 3, the credit display unit 34 displays the number of coins credited in the gaming machine. The payout display unit 35 displays the number of coins that have been paid out due to winning, and if the C / P switch 12 is in the credit state, the payout coin is credited, and if it is in the payout state, the coin is paid out. Is done.

  FIG. 4 is a functional block diagram showing a main control circuit of the gaming machine according to the embodiment. FIG. 4 shows an example of a main control circuit for realizing the operation of the gaming machine 1. In FIG. 4, the game control means according to the embodiment of the present invention is mainly composed of two control circuits. The main control circuit 101 controls various peripheral devices that are electrically connected based on input signals from various detection means. On the other hand, the sub-control circuit 201 displays an effect image or a pair of speakers displayed on the effect display unit 21 based on game information transmitted from the main control circuit 101 or an operation input from a touch panel provided on the panel display unit 7. Controls sound effects generated from 5L and 5R.

  The main control circuit 101 includes a microcomputer 102 disposed on a circuit board as a main component, and is added to a circuit for random number sampling. The microcomputer 102 includes a ROM 104 that stores game programs and data in advance, a CPU 103 that controls according to the game program stored in the ROM 104, and a RAM 105 that provides a work area necessary for control processing.

  The CPU 103 samples a random number based on a signal from a clock pulse generation circuit 106 and a frequency divider 107 that generate a reference clock pulse, a random number generator 108 that generates a random number to be sampled, and a start lever 13 described later. A sampling circuit 109 is connected. Note that, as a means for random number sampling, the microcomputer 102 may perform random number sampling by software processing. In that case, the random number generator 108 and the sampling circuit 109 can be omitted.

  In the ROM 104 of the microcomputer 102, in addition to a control program for controlling various operations of the gaming machine, in a probability lottery process to be described later, a prize used for determining whether or not the random number obtained based on the operation of the start lever 13 is determined. A probability table, a stop table for determining stop positions of the reels 24L, 24C, and 24R according to the operation of the stop buttons 15L, 15C, and 15R, various game information commands to the sub control circuit 201, and the like are stored. Various peripheral devices (actuators) are connected to the CPU 103 via the I / O port 110.

  The motor drive circuit 111 drives and controls each of the stepping motors 112L, 112C, and 112R that rotationally drives the 24L, 24C, and 24R in accordance with a drive signal from the CPU 103. The motor driving circuit 111 controls the stepping motors 112L, 112C, and 112R in response to a stop control signal from the CPU 103.

  The hopper drive circuit 113 controls driving of a hopper 114 that is a coin payout device based on a payout command from the CPU 103. The 7-segment drive circuit 121 drives and controls various display units (in-bonus information display unit 33, credit display unit 34, and payout display unit 35) configured by 7-segment LEDs. The lamp driving circuit 116 controls lighting of various display units (REPLAY lamp 30, WAIT lamp 31, WIN lamp 32, and start lamp 36) composed of lamps.

  There are other effect display means such as an effect display unit 21, an electronic shutter unit, and a reel backlight. These are driven and controlled by the sub-control circuit 201.

  The main input signal generating means for generating an input signal necessary for the microcomputer 102 to generate a control signal for each drive circuit includes a start lever 13, a 1-BET switch 8, a 2-BET switch 9, and a MAXBET switch. 10, C / P switch 12, inserted coin sensor 117, reel stop signal circuit 118, reel index detection circuit 115, payout detection circuit 119, and the like. These are also connected to the CPU 103 via the I / O port 110.

  The start lever 13 detects a player's start operation. The inserted coin sensor 117 detects a coin that has passed through a selector for selecting a deformed coin or the like from the coin inserted from the coin insertion slot 11. The reel stop signal circuit 118 detects that each stop button 15L, 15C, 15R has been operated and generates a stop signal. The reel index detection circuit 115 receives a signal from the rotation reference position detection switch in the stepping motor and supplies a symbol position reset signal to the CPU 103. The payout detection circuit 119 receives a signal from the coin detection unit 120 in the hopper 114 and supplies a payout number signal to the CPU 103.

  Next, how each of these driving circuits is controlled in a series of game flows will be described. First, since the power switch of the gaming machine 1 is turned on, the random number generator 108 generates random numbers belonging to a certain numerical range. The inserted coin sensor 117 detects the player's coin insertion, or if the coin has been credited, the number of coins inserted into the effect display unit 21 is operated by operating the 1-BET switch 8, the 2-BET switch 9, and the MAXBET switch 10. Display the effective line according to.

  As shown in the enlarged view of the display windows 43L, 43C, and 43R shown in FIG. 6, the game operation is performed by turning the center line L1 into an effective winning line (hereinafter abbreviated as an effective line) by the 1-bet operation and by the 2-bet operation, In addition to the line L1, the top line L2A and the bottom line L2B become effective lines, and by the 3-bet operation, the cross down line L3A and the cross up line L3B become effective lines in addition to the center line L1, the top line L2A, and the bottom line L2B.

  Next, the random number value is sampled by the sampling circuit 109 at the timing when the start lever 13 detects the game start operation of the player. Then, the sampled random number value is compared with the winning probability table stored in the ROM 104, and if it is a win, a winning flag for the corresponding winning combination is set. This software lottery process is referred to as “probability lottery process”, which will be described in detail later.

  Then, driving pulses are supplied to the stepping motors 112L, 112C, and 112R through the motor driving circuit 111, and the reels 24L, 24C, and 24R start to rotate. The CPU 103 monitors the supplied drive pulse and updates the “pulse counter” secured in the RAM 105. Then, the value of this pulse counter is monitored, and when it reaches a predetermined value, it is determined that the symbol has moved by one symbol (also referred to as one frame), and the “symbol counter” secured in the RAM 105 is counted by one. Up.

  For example, if a stepping motor rotates once with 400 pulses and 21 symbols are arranged on the outer peripheral surface of the reel, the symbol moves by one frame in about 19 pulses. When the value of 19 becomes 19 pulses, it is determined that one symbol has moved, and the “symbol counter” is incremented by one.

  On the other hand, in the reels 24L, 24C, and 24R, an index detection signal is generated every time the symbol reference point passes the center line L1 of the display window 43, and a reset pulse is input to the CPU 103 via the reel index detection circuit 115. The The CPU 103 detecting the input of the reset pulse clears the symbol counter counted up in the RAM 105, and the consistency between the symbol position grasped by software and the symbol position displayed in the actual display window 43 is confirmed. Is secured.

  When the reels 24L, 24C, and 24R start to rotate and a constant time elapses, the operation of the stop buttons 15L, 15C, and 15R is validated. When the player performs a stop operation, a reel stop signal is input to the CPU 103 via the reel stop signal circuit 118, and after software processing such as selection of a stop position is performed, stepping is performed via the motor drive circuit 111. Stop pulses are supplied to the motors 112L, 112C, and 112R, and the reels 24L, 24C, and 24R are controlled to stop.

  In the stop control of the reels 24L, 24C, and 24R, when the CPU 103 receives the stop signal from the reel stop signal circuit 118, the CPU 103 sets the symbol code number on the center line L1 as a stop operation position in a predetermined area of the RAM 105. Remember. Further, the CPU 103 refers to a stop table in which the stop operation position is associated with a symbol to be displayed on the center line L1. Then, the CPU 103 stores the symbol stop position corresponding to the stop operation position in a predetermined area of the RAM 105, and calculates how many pulses (how many frames) should be supplied in order to stop display the target symbol. After the calculated number of pulses is supplied, stop control is performed.

  When all the reels 24L, 24C, and 24R are stopped, a winning search is performed. In the winning search, first, the symbol table stored in the ROM 104 and the symbol stop position stored in the RAM 105 are collated to determine which stop mode of the current game stopped in the display windows 43L, 43C, 43R. Understand what the situation is like. The symbol table is configured to correspond to the symbol sequence drawn on the outer peripheral surface of the reels 24L, 24C, and 24R, and the code number indicating the order of symbols from the reference position and the symbol provided corresponding to the code number. Corresponding to the cord, it plays the role of a soft reel band.

  Next, with respect to each of the effective lines L1, L2A, L2B, L3A, and L3B, the stop mode and the winning symbol combination table stored in the ROM 104 are collated to determine whether or not there is a winning. The winning symbol combination table associates winning symbol combinations with the number of payout coins at the time of winning, and this winning symbol combination is used when different winning symbol combinations or dividends are valid depending on the gaming state. Switch to process.

  When the CPU 103 determines “winning” in the winning search, the CPU 103 supplies a payout signal to the hopper driving circuit 113 and pays out a predetermined number of coins from the hopper 114. At that time, the coin detection unit 123 counts the number of coins to be paid out from the hopper 114, and when the count value reaches a predetermined number, stops the driving signal to the hopper driving circuit and stops the coin payout.

  It is a functional block diagram which shows the sub control circuit of the game machine by the said embodiment. In FIG. 5, the sub-control circuit 201 is based on game information from the main control circuit 101 and input signals from the touch panel, and effects-related peripheral devices such as an effect display unit 21, an electronic shutter unit 22, and a pair of speakers 5L and 5R. To control.

  The sub-control circuit 201 includes a sub-microcomputer 202 as main components, an image control circuit 250 that controls the effect display unit 21, a sound source IC 230 that controls sound output of the speakers 5L and 5R, a power amplifier 231 as an amplifier, The reel back lamp control circuit 240 is configured. These control circuits are configured on a circuit board different from the main control circuit.

  The sub microcomputer 202 includes a sub CPU 203, a sub ROM 204 as storage means, and a sub RAM 205. The sub control circuit 201 shown in FIG. 5 includes a clock pulse generation circuit, a frequency divider, a random number generator, and a sampling circuit, which are not shown, but are provided in the same manner as the main control circuit. The sub ROM 204 stores a communication sequence program with the main control circuit 101, an effect selection table for selecting various effects based on the received game information, a sound sequence program, and the like. The sub RAM 205 is used as a work area for executing these control programs.

  Based on the game information command transmitted from the main control circuit 101, the sub CPU 203 determines what effects are to be performed on various effect control circuits, and transmits the determined contents to each effect control circuit.

  The image control circuit 250 includes an image control CPU 251, an image control ROM 252, an image control RAM 253, an image ROM 255, a video RAM 256, and an image control IC 254. The image control CPU 251 receives the parameters determined by the sub microcomputer 202 through the image control circuit IN port 257 and determines the display contents on the effect display unit 21 according to the image control sequence program stored in the image control ROM 252. To do. The image control ROM 252 stores an image effect command reception sequence program transmitted from the sub microcomputer 202, an image control sequence program for controlling the image control IC 254, and the like. The image control RAM 253 is used as a work area when executing the image control program.

  The image control IC 254 forms an image corresponding to the display content determined by the image control CPU 251 by using graphic data stored in the image ROM 255, temporarily stores it in the video RAM 256, and stores the image at an appropriate timing. A display effect is performed by outputting to the effect display unit 21 via the control circuit OUT port 258. The reel back lamp control circuit 240 is used for effect display control such as a winning effect or a winning flag notice.

  FIG. 7 is an enlarged front view of a reel provided in the gaming machine according to the embodiment. In FIG. 7, reel bands 40L, 40C, and 40R of reels 24L, 24C, and 24R are made of a translucent film material. Each symbol such as a “cherry” symbol and a “7” symbol is printed on the surface of the translucent film material with a light-transmitting colored ink. Further, areas other than those symbols are masked with light-shielding ink. The lamp housings 41L, 41C, and 41R are provided behind the reel bands 40L, 40C, and 40R, and are divided so that the light emission of each lamp does not interfere with other symbol areas.

  Reel back lamps 42L, 42C, and 42R are built in the respective chambers of the lamp housings 41L, 41C, and 41R. The reel back lamp control circuit 240 controls blinking of the reel back lamps 42L, 42C, and 42R based on the parameters determined by the sub microcomputer 202. For example, when the coins are paid out, the reel back lamps 42L, 42C and 42R of the symbols on the winning line are controlled to blink, or different blinking modes are prepared for each internal winning combination, and an effect display is displayed when each winning flag is established. By doing so, it is suggested to the player which winning symbol should be aimed.

  The electronic shutter control circuit 260 controls transmission / shielding control of the electronic shutter unit 22 arranged between the effect display unit 21 and the reels 24L, 24C, and 24R by applying or not applying a voltage. The necessary display area is controlled to be blocked based on the determined content of 202, thereby blocking the area designated so as not to be visually recognized by the player from the inside portion of the effect display unit 21. For example, during an AT game in which an appropriate stop order is notified in accordance with the selected stop table, only the first stop operation reel display window 43 is visible when the start lever 13 is operated, and the other reel display windows 43 are displayed. Is controlled so that the player can accurately recognize which reel should be the first stop operation.

  FIG. 8 is a plan development view of a reel band provided in the gaming machine according to the embodiment. Each reel band 40L, 40C, 40R has 21 symbols, and each symbol is assigned a symbol number of 1 to 21, and is stored in the ROM 104 as a symbol table. The symbol rows 24L ', 24C', and 24R 'are moved and displayed in the order of symbol numbers (from bottom to top) as the reels 24L, 24C, and 24R are driven to rotate.

  FIG. 9 is a diagram showing the number of payouts for a winning symbol combination (winning combination) in each gaming state of the gaming machine according to the embodiment. Here, internal winnings, winnings, and gaming state will be described. The internal winning is a state in which, in the above-described probability lottery process, the sampled random number value is compared with the winning probability table, and as a result, the winning flag is set for the corresponding winning combination.

  In principle, the winning flag exists for all winning combinations, but due to its characteristics, only the established game is valid, and the winning combination is called a small role that does not carry the winning flag to the next game. In addition to the game where the winning flag is established, it is carried over until a winning occurs, and the internal lottery probability of a winning combination called a big bonus (BB) or regular bonus (RB) increases, and a large amount of coins can be paid out. It is roughly divided into a winning combination called a bonus combination.

  Examples of small roles include, for example, the “Cherry” winning combination that only wins on the active line of the left reel, or the “Bell” winning combination that wins when all three symbols stop on the active line. And "Watermelon" prize winning part. There are regular bonus and big bonus as bonus winning combination. The regular bonus (RB) is generated when, for example, “BAR-BAR-BAR” is aligned on the effective pay line, and first, 15 payouts are made when winning. A single bonus game (referred to as a JAC game or an accessory game) can be played 12 times or until 8 wins are generated. The big bonus (BB) is generated when, for example, “red 7-red 7-red 7” are arranged on the active line, and first, 15 payouts are made when winning. And, a small role called a general game during BB or a game with an increased RB winning probability can be played up to 30 times, and RB can be played up to 3 times during that period.

  The RB winning from the general game occurs when, for example, “BAR-BAR-BAR” is arranged, but the RB winning from the general game in the BB occurs when “replay / replay / replay” is arranged. In the replay winning combination, the same number of coins as the number of coins inserted are automatically inserted when winning, so that the next game can be played without inserting coins. The single bonus (SB) is generated when, for example, “7 with sword—7 with sword—7 with sword” is arranged on the active line. First, 15 payouts are made when winning. And a JAC game can be performed once. This SB is named “bonus”, but the winning flag is not carried over, and the winning flag is valid only for the game of that time like the small role.

  Next, the gaming state will be described. The gaming state is roughly divided into three states depending on the presence / absence of a bonus winning combination winning flag, and the bonus winning symbol is still valid even though the bonus winning combination has been won in the general gaming state where the bonus combination is not even won internally. Bonus games that are not on the line and no winnings have been generated (bonus internal winning status, also known as bonus internal winning) Can be roughly divided into bonus game states (also referred to as bonus operations).

  Further, the bonus internal winning is divided into BB internal winning and RB internal winning according to the bonus type. Further, the bonus operation is also classified into the BB operation and the RB operation. In addition to the bonus winning combination, there is a gaming state that is advantageous for a player who can acquire a large amount of coins.

  For example, a high probability table (for example, SB internal winning probability 1/2) and a low probability table (for example, SB internal winning probability 1/20) are prepared for the SB winning probability table called “concentrated machine” in the general game. When a low probability table is used, a lottery to switch to a high probability table (generally called “rush lottery”) is performed. Conversely, when a high probability table is used, a lottery to switch to a low probability table (generally called “punk lottery”). A specific state is known in which coins gradually increase when a high probability table is used.

  Also, it is called “AT (assist time) function”, and a plurality of winning combinations that can never be won at the same time are set (for example, “bell-bell-red 7”, “bell-bell-blue 7”, “bell-bell”). -White 7 ”winning combination, right reel“ Red 7 ”,“ Blue 7 ”,“ White 7 ”, each with an interval of 4 frames or more), in the normal state, the type of the internal winning combination I do not know which "7" should be aimed at, so I can theoretically win only 1/3 after the internal winning, but when it is in the state of reporting the internal winning type called AT period, it should be aimed at "7" Since the type of symbol is known, it is theoretically possible to win a prize 100% after the internal winning if it is accurately performed, and a specific state is known in which coins gradually increase.

  In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 9, even if the winning symbols are the same, the number of payouts varies depending on the gaming state. For example, the watermelon winning combination is 3 payouts during the general game and the bonus internal winning, but 15 payouts during the BB general game. In addition, “Replay-Replay-Replay” is a replay winning symbol during a general game and during a bonus internal winning, but becomes a RB winning symbol in a general game during BB, and a bonus winning symbol of 15 payouts in a JAC game. .

  In the present embodiment, in addition to the bonus winning combination, the above-mentioned “AT” is adopted as an advantageous situation for the player, and the AT game is activated when a predetermined condition is satisfied during the general game. Yes. Specifically, when the SB winning combination or the Bell winning combination is won internally, information on the stop order necessary for aligning the combinations of the respective winning symbols is notified to the player. Therefore, when the SB winning combination or the Bell winning combination is won internally during this AT period, the player must make sure to generate a winning by operating according to the notified stop order without causing any oversight. Can do.

  FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a winning probability table used for the probability lottery process of the gaming machine according to the embodiment. In FIG. 11, random numbers are extracted in the range of “0 to 16383”, and when they belong to the winning range determined for each winning combination, they become internal winnings of the corresponding winning combination. For example, if the random number extracted in the current game is “10000”, it belongs to the winning range “2299” to “11024” of the Bell winning combination, and is an internal winning of the Bell winning combination. If the random number extracted in the current game is “15000”, it belongs to the range “13669-16383” of the loss, so that any winning combination is not internally won and is lost.

  FIG. 12 is a diagram showing a list of commands transmitted to the sub-control circuit of the gaming machine according to the embodiment. In the embodiment of the present invention, the main control circuit 101 that controls the winning determination and the coin payout and the sub control circuit 201 that controls the effect display unit 21 and the speakers 5L and 5R are configured as separate circuit boards. In addition, the stage control processed by the sub-control circuit 201 requires game information on the internal winning state of the winning combination processed by the main control circuit and the reel stop status. It is connected with a cable and transmits necessary information sequentially.

  The command to be transmitted is a “start command” transmitted when the player operates the start lever 13, and when the stop buttons 15L, 15C, and 15R are operated to stop the rotating reels 24L, 24C, and 24R. There is a “reel stop command” that is transmitted to “1”, and a “1 game end command” that is transmitted when one game is completed.

  Each command represents one type of data with 2 bytes, the preceding 1 byte represents the type of the command, and the subsequent 1 byte represents the content thereof. The start command is composed of 6-byte data, and the data type is composed of three types of “internal winning combination”, “game state”, and “selection stop table”. The reel stop command is composed of 4 bytes of data for one stop operation, and is composed of two types of data, “stop order” and “stop reel”. One game end command is composed of 4-byte data, and the data type is composed of two types of “winning type” and “bonus game state”.

  FIG. 13A is a front view of a panel display unit provided in the gaming machine according to the embodiment, FIG. 13A is a front view of the panel display unit, FIG. 13B is a front view of a pattern sheet, and FIG. It is a front view of an electronic shutter part. In FIG. 13A, the panel display unit 7 is made of a single plate formed of a transparent acrylic plate and plays a role of protecting a physical impact from the outside. In FIG. 13B, the pattern sheet 20 is a transparent film material printed with a translucent ink. In this embodiment, a wooden pattern is printed on the left side of the sheet.

  In FIG.13 (c), the electronic shutter part 22 is comprised from a liquid-crystal film, and transparent / opaque switching is performed by the application state of a voltage. In addition, the display area of each lamp section on the right side of the electronic shutter section and the 7-segment display section is maintained in a transparent state regardless of whether or not a voltage is applied, and is configured so that the player can always see it.

  FIG. 14 is an enlarged front view of the panel display unit when the electronic shutter unit provided in the gaming machine according to the embodiment is in a shielded state for all areas. The display state shown in FIG. 14 is a display state when, for example, the gaming machine 1 is not turned on, and the reel 24 is hidden by the electronic shutter unit 22 and is not visible to the player. . However, since the pattern sheet is provided in front of the electronic shutter unit 22 (player side), it is not affected by the control state of the electronic shutter unit and is visible to the player.

  In addition, the various lamp display units and the 7-segment display unit on the right side of the panel display unit are arranged on the inner side of the housing from the electronic shutter unit 22, but the corresponding display area of the electronic shutter unit 22 is always in a transparent state. It is in a state visible from the player.

  FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an effect screen during an AT game of the gaming machine according to the embodiment. FIG. 15 (a) shows an example of effect control during an AT game, in which the bell is won internally in the current game, and No. of the stop table shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows the panel display part 7 displayed before 1st stop operation, when 5 is selected.

  In this embodiment, for the effect control during the AT game, the electronic shutter unit 22 is controlled to be transparent only for the display area of the reel corresponding to the stop button to be stopped, and the other display areas are controlled to be blocked appropriately. Suggest operation. Stop table No. Since 5 is a first stop operation right stop button, the display area other than the right reel 24R is shielded, and only the rotating right reel 24R is visible to the player, and the player stops the right stop button 15R. It suggests that you should operate.

  Here, the transmission control means that the electronic shutter unit is controlled so that the reel symbol behind can be visually recognized. If the reel symbol is visible from the player, it is not completely transparent but translucent. It may be a state or a colored state. Similarly, the shielding state includes not only a state in which light is not completely transmitted but also a certain degree of semi-transparent state as long as the rear reel symbol cannot be visually recognized.

  FIG. 15B is a diagram showing the panel display unit 7 when the player performs a stop operation on the right stop button 15R in the state of FIG. Since the first stop of the right stop button is a legitimate stop operation, in FIG. 15A, only the symbol of the bell that is the internal winning combination is visible in the display area of the right reel 24R in which the entire rotating right reel 24R has been visually recognized. It is possible to notify the player that the stop operation was correct by blocking other display areas. Further, the display area of the left reel 24L that is shielded in FIG. 15A is in a transparent state, and the rotating left reel 24L is visible, and the player operates the left reel 24L. This suggests what should be done.

  FIG.15 (c) is a figure which shows the panel display part 7 when a player operates the left stop button 15L in the state of FIG.15 (b). The second stop of the left stop button is a legitimate stop operation, so in FIG. 15B, only the symbol of the bell that is the internal winning combination is visible in the display area of the left reel 24L where the entire rotating left reel 24L was visible. It is possible to notify the player that the stop operation was correct by blocking other display areas.

  In addition, the display area of the middle reel 24C that is shielded in FIG. 15B is in a transparent state, and the middle reel 24C that is rotating is visible, and the remaining middle reel 24L is attached to the player. It suggests that you should operate.

  FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an effect screen during an AT game of the gaming machine according to the embodiment. FIG. 16A is a diagram showing the panel display unit 7 when a winning is generated by correctly performing all stop operations during an AT game. In FIG. 16A, the electronic shutter portion is controlled to be transmitted only for the portion of the bell symbol which is a winning combination, the bell symbol on the reel 24 is visible, and the character “GET” is displayed on the effect display portion 21. Is displayed, informing the player that Bell has won.

  FIG. 16B is a diagram showing the panel display unit 7 when a stop operation is erroneously performed during an AT game and an oversight occurs. For example, in the state of FIG. 15 (b), the place where the left stop button 15L should be operated correctly is displayed when the middle stop button 15C is operated by mistake, and a large “x” is displayed at the center of the display unit. Is displayed to inform the player that the stop operation was erroneous.

  The effect control executed in FIGS. 16 (a) and 16 (b) is displayed for a certain period of time, and then, as shown in FIG. 16 (c), all the shielding areas are controlled so that the effect control in one game is performed. Ends.

  FIG. 17 is a diagram showing a notice effect screen of the gaming machine according to the embodiment. In the gaming machine 1, after all the reels 24L, 24C, and 24R are stopped, a notice effect screen that appears with a predetermined probability appears. As a specific production flow, first, the rotating reels 24L, 24C, and 24R are displayed through the panel display unit 7 (see FIG. 17A). Thereafter, as will be described later in response to the player's stop operation, the electronic shutter is closed according to the shielding pattern. For example, when three stop buttons are sequentially operated, the reels 24L, 24C, and 24R corresponding to the stop buttons are closed by the electronic shutter. Alternatively, when the three stop buttons are sequentially operated, none of the reels 24L, 24C, and 24R is shielded by the first and second stop button operations, but all the reels 24L are operated by the third stop button operation. -You may make it stop 24C and 24R (refer FIG.17 (b)). The stop button operation and the shielding pattern of the reels 24L, 24C, and 24R are defined by an internal winning and a stop button as described later.

  Next, a notice effect based on the internal winning combination of this game is executed. FIG. 19A shows a notice effect generation table. In the probability lottery process, the notice effect generation table is referred to when a lottery for determining whether or not to execute the notice effect when BB, RB, watermelon, and SB are internally won.

  For example, if the watermelon is won internally in this game and the effect selection random value is 15, an effect will be generated. However, even if the effect selection random value is 15, the internal winning combination is SB. There is no production.

  FIG. 19B shows an effect type selection table. The effect type selection table is referred to when determining the content of the effect when the occurrence of the notice effect is determined in the notice effect generation table. The effect contents are represented by a shielding pattern by the electronic shutters of the reels 24L, 24C, and 24R, and this shielding pattern indicates whether or not the bonus winning combination is highly likely to be won internally. Therefore, the effect type selection table is also called a shielding pattern table.

  In the illustrated example, six patterns for shielding the reels 24L, 24C, and 24R are determined. For example, when the number of shields in the figure is “all”, the reels 24L, 24C, and 24R are all shielded by an electronic shutter. This represents a state, and the “shielding number A” is a pattern that shields the reels 24L and 24C. “Shielding number A” to “shielding number E” have different combinations of shielded reels. In response to the operation of the stop button, that is, when the player operates the stop button, the content of the effect, that is, the internal winning A shielding pattern corresponding to (winning type: control type) is selected. 18 (a) and 18 (b) show a state in which the reels 24L, 24C, and 24R are selectively shielded by an electronic shutter in a shielding pattern defined by internal winning in response to the player's stop button operation, respectively. For example, this indicates that the state shown in FIG. 18A has a higher probability of winning an internal lottery than the state shown in FIG.

  FIG. 20 is a view showing a BR generation and BR continuation number lottery table of the gaming machine according to the embodiment. In the present embodiment, whether or not to generate BR and the number of BR continuations are determined by lottery with a certain probability when a predetermined winning combination is won internally. In the table, BR occurs at a probability of 16/128 when the watermelon is won internally, 11/128 when the two cherries are internally won, and 25/128 when lost.

  In this way, in response to the player's operation of the stop button, one shielding pattern is selected from a plurality of shielding patterns according to the result of the control type that is the type of internal winning, and the reels 24L, 24C, and 24R are selected. Is selectively shielded by the electronic shutter, and the player is informed step by step of the probability of winning, for example, a BB from which a large number of medals can be obtained. In other words, by selectively shielding the reels 24L, 24C, and 24R with the electronic shutter, a step-up notice for notifying the probability of being drawn by the BB and RB is performed. For example, in the gaming machine according to the present embodiment, for example, the probability of winning a BB that can acquire a large number of medals is notified step by step. Here, the step-up notice is mainly for giving a notice of the probability of being drawn by BB and RB.

  For example, when all of the reels 24L, 24C, and 24R are shielded by the electronic shutter, this is the most anticipated notice mode. When any one of the reels 24L, 24C, and 24R is shielded by the electronic shutter, This is the least anticipated notice mode. Since a plurality of shielding patterns that shield the reels 24L, 24C, and 24R are extracted and produced, it is possible to give a step-by-step notice of the establishment that a large amount of game media can be acquired. Further, if all the reels 24L, 24C, and 24R are shielded when the final stop button is pressed, the player can be provided with interest and expectation. Furthermore, since the symbols (that is, the reels 24L, 24C, and 24R) displayed on the liquid crystal display device are shielded by the electronic shutter using the electronic shutter, it is possible to easily control the shielding of the symbols.

  Next, control operations of the main control circuit 101 and the CPU 103 will be described with reference to main flowcharts shown in FIGS.

  First, the CPU 103 performs an initialization process prior to the start of the game (step S1). Specifically, the previous game status and communication data stored in the RAM 105 are cleared, the game parameters necessary for the game are written, the start address of the sequence program is set, and the like.

  Next, the CPU 103 determines whether or not there is an automatic coin insertion request, that is, whether or not a replay prize has been won in the previous game (step S2). When this determination is “YES”, coins for the insertion request are automatically inserted (step S3), and the process proceeds to step S5. If “NO” in step S2, whether there is a new coin inserted, that is, whether there is an input from the inserted coin sensor 117 due to the player inserting a coin into the coin slot 11, various BET switches 8, It is determined whether or not there is an input due to the operation of 9, 10 (step S4). If “YES”, the process proceeds to step S5. If “NO”, monitoring of the input signal is continued until a BET operation is performed.

  Subsequently, the CPU 103 determines whether or not there is an input by operating the start lever 13 (step S5). If "YES", the process proceeds to step S6. If "NO", monitoring of the input signal is continued until the start lever is operated.

  Next, probability lottery processing is performed (step S6). In the probability lottery process, first, random numbers for lottery are extracted in the range of “0 to 16383” using the random number generator 108 and the sampling circuit 109. Then, by using a winning probability table (see FIG. 11) in which a random value range (winning range) is determined according to the game state and the number of inserted medals, it is determined which winning range the extracted random number value belongs to The corresponding internal winning combination (winning flag) is determined.

  Then, when the bonus winning combination is an internal winning, a WIN lamp lighting process for lighting the WIN lamp with a predetermined probability is performed (step S7).

  The game information of the main control circuit 101 at the start of the game is transmitted to the sub control circuit (step S8). As shown in the “start command” of the game information command in FIG. 12, the transmitted command includes a winning flag determined by the probability lottery process, a current gaming state, and a stop table determined according to the winning flag. Number etc. are transmitted.

  It is determined whether or not a one-game monitoring timer set in the previous game has passed a specified time, for example, 4.1 seconds (step S9). If “YES”, one game for the next game is determined. A monitoring timer is set (step S11). If “NO”, the remaining specified time is consumed (step S10), and then step S11 is performed.

  The CPU 103 controls the motor driving circuit 111 to perform processing (reel rotation processing) for rotating the reels 24L, 24C, and 24R (step S12). In the reel rotation processing, acceleration processing is performed from a state where the reels 24L, 24C, and 24R are stopped, and after reaching a certain speed, constant speed rotation processing is performed. The stop buttons 15L, 15C, and 15R are validated on the condition that this constant speed rotation state has been reached, and the stop operation of the 24L, 24C, and 24R becomes possible.

  The CPU 103 determines whether or not any of the stop buttons 15L, 15C, and 15R has been operated (whether the stop button is on), that is, when the stop button 15L, 15C, or 15R is operated by the player, the reel stop signal circuit 118 It is determined whether or not there is a stop signal sent (step S13). If "YES", the process proceeds to step S15. If "NO", the process proceeds to step S14.

  In step S14, it is determined whether or not the value of the automatic stop timer is “0”. Here, the automatic stop means that when a certain period of time has elapsed (for example, 40 seconds) after the reel starts to rotate, the reels 24L, 24C, and 24R rotate without operating the stop buttons 15L, 15C, and 15R. Even if it is, it is the process which performs stop control automatically. When this determination is “YES”, that is, when the automatic stop timer is “0”, step S15 is performed to automatically stop the reel, while when “NO”, it continues. In order to monitor the acceptance of the stop operation, the process proceeds to step S13.

  In step S15, the CPU 103 performs a “sliding frame number determination process”. In the “sliding frame number determination process”, the number of sliding frames on the reel corresponding to the stop button that has been stopped is determined. Here, the “sliding frame number” refers to the symbol position displayed on the display windows 43L, 43C, and 43R when the stop buttons 15L, 15C, and 15R are operated (this is referred to as “stop operation position”). This refers to the number of symbols (number of frames) to be slid by stopping the reel by sliding the symbol (the position where the reel actually stopped is called “stop position”).

  The CPU 103 controls the motor drive circuit 111 so as to stop after rotating the reel corresponding to the stop button for which the stop operation has been performed by the determined number of sliding frames (step S16). The CPU 103 transmits a “reel stop command” indicating that the reel has stopped to the sub-control circuit 201 (step S17). As shown in the “reel stop command” of the game information command, the reel stop command is subordinate to the stop order status (which stop operation is the current stop operation) and the stop reel status (which reel was stopped). Transmit to the control circuit 201.

  The CPU 103 determines whether or not all reels have stopped (step S18). If “YES”, the process proceeds to step S19. If “NO”, it means that the reel being rotated still remains, and the process returns to step S13. Next, the CPU 103 performs a winning search process (step S19). In this winning search process, it is determined whether or not the stop mode of the symbols displayed in the display windows 43L, 43C, and 43R indicates that a winning has been established. The winning flag of the winning combination to be stored is stored in the RAM 105. For example, the determination is performed by comparing the code number of the symbol on the center line L 1 with a winning symbol combination table stored in the ROM 104.

  Subsequently, it is checked whether the winning flag matches the winning flag, and it is determined whether or not the current winning is normal (step S20). If “NO”, an illegal error is displayed (step S21), and the execution of the game program is stopped. On the other hand, if “YES”, coins are paid out in accordance with the type of winning combination and gaming state established (step S22).

  Next, when the game state changes due to the end of the current game, a transition process is performed (step S23). For example, when the bonus game is the final winning, when the bonus is won internally in this game, or when the bonus game starts when the symbol “7-7-7” stops on the active line is there. Subsequently, the type of winning combination that has been established, the gaming state, and the like are transmitted to the sub-control circuit as “1 game end command” shown in the gaming information command table of FIG. 12 (step S24).

  Next, the control operation of the sub CPU 203 of the sub control circuit 201 will be described. FIG. 24 is a flowchart showing “interrupt processing 1”. “Interrupt process 1” is executed by an interrupt process every 3 ms, and performs a process of storing the game information command transmitted from the main control circuit 101 and the input signal from the touch panel in the sub RAM 205.

  First, the sub CPU 203 checks the input buffer (step S25), determines whether there is an input signal in the input buffer (step S26), and if “YES”, turns on the reception flag (step S27). The content of the received command is set in the sub RAM 205 (step S28), and the process is terminated. On the other hand, if “NO” in the step S 26, the process is immediately ended.

  FIG. 25 is a flowchart showing main processing on the sub-control circuit side. First, the sub CPU 203 checks the reception flag of the sub RAM 205 and determines whether or not there is an operation input from the touch panel (step S29). If “YES”, the support menu process is executed (step S30). Control goes to step S31. On the other hand, if “NO” in the step S30, the step S30 is skipped and the process proceeds to a step S31. The support menu process displays and edits the support menu according to the input.

  In step S31, it is determined whether or not a start command has been received. If “NO”, step S32 is skipped and the process proceeds to step S33. If “YES”, effect control processing at the start is performed in step S32. Execute. The effect control process at the start is for performing BR control processing when BR is in progress. In step S33, it is determined whether or not a reel stop command has been received. If “NO”, step S34 is skipped and the process proceeds to step S35. If “YES”, the effect at the time of reel stop is determined in step S34. Execute control processing. The effect control process at the time of reel stop performs an effect corresponding to the BR generation lottery process, the notification of the stop order during BR, and the consistency between the notification contents and the actual stop operation.

  In step S35, it is determined whether or not a one-game end command has been received. If “NO”, step S36 is skipped and the process returns to step S29. On the other hand, if “YES”, an effect control process at the end of one game is executed in step S36. The effect control process at the end of one game executes a notice effect process or an update process of the BR continuation count when the current BR is being performed. And after performing the process of step S36, it returns to step S29. As described above, the main flowchart of the sub-control circuit 201 repeatedly performs the process of branching to the corresponding effect process based on the game information command transmitted from the main control circuit 101.

  FIG. 26 is a flowchart showing the effect control process at the start. First, the sub CPU 203 performs a BR generation lottery process (step S37). The BR generation lottery process is, for example, a process of determining whether or not to generate a battle rush that is a special game. Thereafter, BR execution processing is performed (step S38). This BR execution process performs stop order notification during BR.

  FIG. 27 is a flowchart showing a BR generation lottery process. First, the sub CPU 203 checks the BR flag stored in the sub RAM 205 to determine whether or not the current BR game is being played (step S39). If “YES”, the process returns to the start effect control process. . On the other hand, if “NO”, with reference to the BR occurrence and BR continuation number lottery table shown in FIG. 20, it is determined whether or not any BR continuation number has been won (steps S40 and S41), and step S41. If the determination is “NO” (losing), the process returns to the effect control process at the start. On the other hand, if the determination is “YES”, the BR flag of the sub-RAM 205 is turned on, and the number of continuation wins the BR continuation number is set (step S42). Then, a BR generation effect is performed (step S43), and the process returns to the effect control process at the start.

  FIG. 28 is a flowchart showing the BR execution process. First, the sub CPU 203 checks the BR flag and the BR save flag in the sub RAM 205 to determine whether the current BR is in progress or whether the BR is temporarily interrupted due to the occurrence of a bonus during the BR (step S44). If “NO”, it means that BR is not in progress, and the process directly returns to the effect control process at the start. On the other hand, if “YES”, the reception flag of the sub RAM 205 is checked to determine whether or not the bonus winning combination has been won internally (step S45). If “YES”, the BR is interrupted and the bonus game is digested, so the BR flag of the sub-RAM 205 is turned off, the BR withdrawal flag is turned on (step S46), and the effect control process at the start is restored. To do.

  If “NO” in the step S45, the BR save flag of the sub RAM 205 is turned off and the BR flag is turned on in order to restart the BR when the BR is being saved (step S47). Next, in order to check whether or not all BR continuation times have been consumed, the BR continuation number in the sub RAM 205 is checked to determine whether or not the continuation number has become 0 (step S48). If “YES” in the step S48, it means that the BR is ended, so the BR flag is turned off (step S49), and the process returns to the effect control process at the start.

  On the other hand, if “NO” in step S48, this means that BR has not yet been used up to the specified number of games, so the reception flag in sub-RAM 205 is checked, and Bell or SB has won the game internally this time. Is determined (step S50). If “YES”, an appropriate stop order is notified with reference to the selected stop table type stored in the reception flag of the sub RAM 205 (step S51), and the process returns to the effect control process at the start. If “NO” in the step S50, the process returns to the effect control process at the start.

  Next, an effect control process when the stop buttons 15L, 15C, and 15R are operated during BR will be described. FIG. 29 is a flowchart showing the effect control process when the reels are stopped. First, the sub CPU 203 checks the BR flag in the sub RAM 205 to determine whether or not the current BR is currently being performed (step S52). If the result is “NO”, the sub CPU 203 directly returns to the sub main processing. On the other hand, if “YES” in the step S52, the stop command of the reception flag of the sub RAM 205 is checked, the stop order data and the stop reel data are collated with the use table No data, and the current stop operation is stored in the stop table. It is determined whether or not the push order is valid according to the designated order (step S53). If “YES” in the step S53, it is displayed that the stop operation is performed in a proper pushing order (step S54). On the other hand, if “NO”, it is displayed that the stop operation is performed in the wrong pressing order (step S55), and the process returns to the sub-side main flow.

  Next, an effect control process performed after all reels have stopped will be described. FIG. 30 is a flowchart showing an effect control process at the end of one game. First, the sub CPU 203 executes a notice effect generation process for determining whether or not to generate a notice effect for an internal winning combination (step S56), and updates the related parameters when the current game situation is BR. The parameter update process is executed (step S57). Then, when the occurrence of the notice effect is determined in the notice effect generation process, the aforementioned effect process is executed (step S58), and the process returns to the sub-side main flow.

  FIG. 31 is a flowchart showing the notice effect generation process. First, the sub CPU 203 checks the reception flag of the sub RAM 205 to determine whether or not the current gaming state is a general game (step S59). If “YES”, the notice effect of FIG. Referring to the generation table, the generation lottery of the notice effect is executed (step S60). Then, it is determined whether or not the player has won (step S61), and if “YES”, referring to the shielding pattern table of FIG. (Step S62), the process returns to the effect control process at the end of one game. If “NO” in the step S61, the process returns to the effect control process at the end of one game.

  FIG. 32 is a flowchart illustrating the parameter update process. First, the sub CPU 203 checks one game end command of the reception flag stored in the sub RAM 205 to determine whether or not the current gaming state is in bonus gaming (step S63). Since there is no possibility during BR, the process directly returns to the effect control process at the end of one game. On the other hand, if “NO” in the step S63, the BR flag stored in the sub RAM 205 is checked to determine whether or not the BR is currently being performed (step S64). If “NO” in the step S 64, the process directly returns to the effect control process for ending one game. On the other hand, if “YES” in the step S64, the BR continuation number counter of the sub RAM 205 is subtracted (step S65), and the process returns to the effect control process for finishing one game.

  In the above-described example, the liquid crystal display device is used as the effect display unit 21 and the liquid crystal display device is partially shielded by the electronic shutter. Subsequently, the reel is selectively shielded using the mechanical shutter. An example will be described.

  FIG. 33 is a front view showing another embodiment of the gaming machine according to the present invention. FIG. 34 is a longitudinal section of a reel unit provided in a gaming machine according to another embodiment. FIG. 35 is a longitudinal sectional view of a main part of a gaming machine according to another embodiment. FIG. 36 is a perspective exploded view of a reel unit provided in a gaming machine according to another embodiment. FIG. 33 to FIG. 36 show an example of a gaming machine using a mechanical shutter. Here, the same components as those of the gaming machine shown in FIG. To do.

  33, a display window 70 is provided on the front door 3 in place of the panel display 7 using the liquid crystal display device described in FIG. The display window unit 70 is divided into individual display windows 70L, 70C, and 70R. The reel unit 72 is rotatably provided with three reels 71L, 71C, and 71R each having a plurality of types of symbols drawn on the outer peripheral surface thereof. Each of the reels 71L, 71C, and 71R is disposed so as to be observable through the display window 70.

  34, the reel unit 72 is housed in the housing 2 and has reels 71L, 71C, and 71R. The reels 71L, 71C, and 71R are driven by motors 73L, 73C, and 73R, respectively. The motors 73L, 73C, and 73R are supported at their main body portions by motor support plates 74L, 74C, and 74R, respectively.

  In FIGS. 33 to 35, rotary shutters 75L, 75C, and 75R that open and close the display windows 70L, 70C, and 70R are provided in front of the reels 71L, 71C, and 71R, facing the display windows 70L, 70C, and 70R, respectively. ing. The rotary shutters 75L, 75C, and 75R have arc-shaped shielding pieces 76L, 76C, and 76R, respectively. Then, the shielding pieces 76L, 76C, and 76R are rotated around the reels 71L, 71C, and 71R to open and close the display windows 70L, 70C, and 70R.

  The reel unit 72 includes motors 77L, 77C, and 77R as driving means for driving the rotary shutters 75L, 75C, and 75R. The rotary shutters 75L, 75C, and 75R, that is, the shielding pieces 76L, 76C, and 76R are rotationally driven by the motors 77L, 77C, and 77R.

  The rotations of the motors 77L, 77C, and 77R are transmitted to the rotary shutters 75L, 75C, and 75R, that is, the shielding pieces 76L, 76C, and 76R by the transmission mechanisms 78L, 78C, and 78R, respectively. Although not shown, the motors 77L, 77C, and 77R are driven and controlled by the CPU 103. That is, the CPU 103 controls the rotation of the rotary shutters 75L, 75C, and 75R according to the operation of the stop button, in an open state in which the player can visually recognize the symbol and in a closed state in which the player cannot visually recognize the symbol.

  Here, with reference to FIG. 35 and FIG. 36, the configuration around the reel 71L in the reel unit 72 will be described. The configuration around the reel 71C and the reel 71R is the same as the configuration around the reel 71L.

  The motor 73L that drives the reel 71L, the motor 77L that drives the rotary shutter 75L, and the transmission mechanism 78L are disposed in the internal space of the reel 71L. A shielding piece 76L is arranged along the outer peripheral surface of the reel 71L. The transmission mechanism 78L includes a first timing pulley 82 supported by the output shaft (rotating shaft) of the motor 77L, a second timing pulley 84 supported by the rotating shaft of the rotary shutter 75L, the first timing pulley 82, and the first timing pulley 82. And a timing belt 83 around which the two timing pulleys 84 are wound.

  In FIG. 36, the rotation shaft of the second timing pulley 84 is supported on one side by the motor support plate 74L. The second timing pulley 84 is hollow at the center, and this hollow portion is open. The diameter of the hollow portion is sufficiently larger than the diameter of the motor 73L, and the motor 73L is accommodated in the hollow portion. And the main-body part of the motor 73L is supported by the motor support plate 74L.

  The main body of the motor 77L is fixed to the flange plate 80. On the other hand, the output shaft of the motor 77L is fixed to the center of the first timing pulley 82. The pair of mounting rods 81 and 81 are fixed to the flange plate 80, and the pair of mounting rods 81 and 81 are fixed to the motor support plate 74L. That is, the motor 77L is supported by the motor support plate 74L.

  As shown in FIG. 35, the shielding piece 76L is rotated in the direction indicated by the solid arrow along the outer peripheral surface of the reel 71L, and is selectively positioned between the reel 71L and the display window 70L. When the shielding piece 76L is positioned between the reel 71L and the display window 70L, the player is in a closed state in which the symbol cannot be visually recognized.

  In this way, the shielding piece 76L is arranged between the reel 71L and the display window 70L, and when the rotary shutter 75L rotates, the design is selectively shielded (opened / closed). In an existing gaming machine that is not, simply replacing the reel unit 72 enables notification of the stop order and step-up notice.

  In the above-described example, the rotation shaft of the rotary shutter 75L is arranged coaxially with the reel 71L, supports the second timing pulley 84 that is driven by the rotation shaft of the rotary shutter 75L, and the output shaft of the motor 77L. The first timing pulley 82 serving as the prime mover is supported, and the first timing pulley 82 and the second timing pulley 84 are wound around an endless timing belt. Since these components are arranged inside the reel 71L, not only can a compact mechanical shutter be realized, but the timing belt formed with the tooth surface has an advantage of reliable remote transmission.

1 is a perspective external view showing an embodiment of a gaming machine according to the present invention. It is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the panel display part with which the gaming machine by the said embodiment is equipped. It is a front view of the panel display part with which the game machine by the said embodiment is equipped. It is a functional block diagram which shows the main control circuit of the game machine by the said embodiment. It is a functional block diagram which shows the sub control circuit of the game machine by the said embodiment. It is an enlarged view of the display window provided in the gaming machine according to the embodiment. It is a front enlarged view of the reel with which the game machine by the said embodiment is equipped. FIG. 3 is a plan development view of a reel band provided in the gaming machine according to the embodiment. It is a figure which shows the number of payouts with respect to the winning combination in each game state of the gaming machine according to the embodiment. It is a figure which shows the stop table selected at the time of winning a winning combination bell of the gaming machine according to the embodiment. It is a figure which shows the winning probability table used for the probability lottery process of the game machine by the said embodiment. It is a figure which shows the command list transmitted to the sub control circuit of the game machine by the said embodiment. FIG. 13A is a front view of a panel display unit provided in the gaming machine according to the embodiment, FIG. 13A is a front view of the panel display unit, FIG. 13B is a front view of a pattern sheet, and FIG. It is a front view of an electronic shutter part. It is a front enlarged view of the panel display part when the electronic shutter part with which the game machine by the said embodiment is a shielding state about all the areas. It is a figure which shows the production | presentation screen in AT game of the gaming machine by the said embodiment. It is a figure which shows the production | presentation screen in AT game of the gaming machine by the said embodiment. It is a figure which shows the notification effect screen of the game machine by the said embodiment. It is a figure which shows the notification effect screen of the game machine by the said embodiment. It is a figure which shows the notice effect production | generation table and production type selection table of the gaming machine by the said embodiment. It is a figure which shows BR generation | occurrence | production and BR continuation number lottery table of the gaming machine according to the embodiment. It is a main flowchart which shows the process of the main control circuit of the game machine by the said embodiment. It is a main flowchart which shows the process of the main control circuit of the game machine by the said embodiment. It is a main flowchart which shows the process of the main control circuit of the game machine by the said embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the "interrupt process 1" of the game machine by the said embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the sub side main flow of the game machine by the said embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the presentation control process at the time of the start of the game machine by the said embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the BR generating lottery process of the gaming machine according to the embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows BR execution processing of the game machine by the said embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the presentation control process at the time of the reel stop of the game machine by the said embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the presentation control process at the time of completion | finish of 1 game of the gaming machine by the said embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the notification effect generation process of the gaming machine by the said embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the parameter update process of the game machine by the said embodiment. It is a front view which shows another embodiment of the game machine by this invention. It is a longitudinal section of a reel unit with which a gaming machine according to another embodiment is provided. It is a principal part longitudinal cross-sectional view of the game machine by another embodiment. It is a perspective exploded view of a reel unit provided in a gaming machine according to another embodiment.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Game machine 2 Housing | casing 3 Front door 13 Start lever 15L * 15C * 15R Stop button 20 Picture sheet 21 Production display part 22 Electronic shutter part 24L * 24C * 24R, 71L * 71C * 71R Reel 72 Reel unit 75L * 75C * 75R Rotating shutter 76L / 76C / 76 Shielding piece 101 Main control circuit 201 Sub control circuit

Claims (4)

A variation display means for variably displaying a plurality of symbols;
Lottery means for performing the lottery of the winning combination;
Stop control means for stopping and controlling the fluctuation display;
Stop control selection means for selecting a control type of the stop control means with reference to the result of the lottery;
Shielding means provided in front of the fluctuation display means;
A gaming machine comprising: shielding control means for changing and controlling the shielding means between a state in which the player can visually recognize the symbol and a state in which the player cannot visually recognize the symbol according to the selection content of the stop control selection means,
The shielding control means has a plurality of shielding patterns that shield the variation display means in response to the stop control by the stop control means, and refers to the result of the control type selected by the stop control selection means. A gaming machine, wherein one shielding pattern is selected from the plurality of shielding patterns. The variable display means includes a liquid crystal display device,
The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the shielding means includes an electronic shutter provided in front of the liquid crystal display device. A housing that opens and closes the front door,
The variation display means includes a reel unit having a plurality of reels housed inside the casing and displaying the plurality of symbols.
The shielding means includes a rotary shutter having an arc-shaped shielding piece that can be opened and closed in front of the reel so as to face a display window provided on the front door, and a driving means that rotates the rotary shutter. Including,
The shielding control means is configured to control the rotation of the rotary shutter by the driving means in an open state in which the player can visually recognize the symbol and a closed state in which the player cannot visually recognize the symbol according to the selection content of the stop control selection means. The gaming machine according to claim 1, characterized in that:   The driving means includes a motor disposed inside the reel, a first timing pulley supported on the output shaft of the motor, a second timing pulley supported on the output shaft of the rotary shutter, and the first The gaming machine according to claim 3, further comprising a timing belt around which the one timing pulley and the second timing pulley are wound.

Images