JP2009028300A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine which can strengthen players' will to play games by permitting the players to take part in the decision of details of a performance to some extent. <P>SOLUTION: A variety of performances are put on in the liquid crystal display section (5a) of the game machine (1) on the basis of a performance condition identifier and an internal winning combination. The internal winning combination is internally decided by the processing of a main control circuit (71). The performance condition identifier is chosen by a subsidiary control circuit (72) on the basis of the direction of a main character (300) displayed on the liquid crystal display section (5a) when a player operates a start lever 6. Consequently, the player can choose an arbitrary performance condition identifier from the direction of the main character (300). <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2009,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine.

  For example, a slot machine equipped with a stop button, a so-called pachislot machine, has a variable display device configured by arranging a plurality of mechanical rotating reels that display a plurality of symbols in the front display window, or a symbol on the reel on the screen. It has an electrical fluctuation display device for displaying. In response to the player's start operation, the control means drives the variable display device to rotate the reels to display the symbols in a variable manner. After a certain period of time, either automatically or by the player's stop operation, Stop rotation sequentially. At this time, when the symbols of the reels appearing in the display window are in a specific combination (winning symbol), a profit is given to the player by paying out game media such as coins and medals.

  Currently, the mainstream models have a plurality of types of winning modes. In particular, when a winning combination of a predetermined combination is established, the gaming state is not better than the normal state for a predetermined period of time without completing one coin payout. As such a combination, a combination that can play a game that gives a relatively large profit to the player a predetermined number of times (referred to as “Big Bonus”, hereinafter abbreviated as “BB”) and a relatively small profit to the player There is a role that can play a predetermined number of games (referred to as “regular bonus”, hereinafter abbreviated as “RB”).

  In addition, in current mainstream models, a combination of predetermined symbols is arranged along an activated formation line (hereinafter referred to as an “effective line”), and a winning in which coins, medals, etc. are paid out is A combination of symbols indicating that the winning combination of the winning combination (hereinafter referred to as “internal winning combination”) and the winning combination of the internal winning combination (hereinafter referred to as “internal winning combination”) is achieved by a standard lottery process (hereinafter referred to as “internal winning combination”) The player is required to perform a stop operation at a timing at which the player can stop at the active line. In other words, no matter how much internal winning is made, if the timing of the stop operation of the player is bad, a winning cannot be established. That is, gaming machines that require skill in the timing of the stop operation (the high importance of technical intervention called “to push”) are currently mainstream.

In such a gaming machine, the internal winning combination determining means for determining the internal winning combination, the effect determining means for determining the effect content based on the determined internal winning combination, and the effect based on the determined effect content There has been proposed a gaming machine provided with a production means (see, for example, Patent Document 1). According to this gaming machine, an effect is performed based on the internal winning combination, so that the player can predict or grasp the internal winning combination from the effect.
JP 2006-238948 A

  However, in the gaming machine as described above, the player cannot be involved in the content of the effect determined based on the internal winning combination, and the content of the effect is automatically determined by processing inside the game machine. As a result, the player feels that the game is controlled by the gaming machine, and his motivation for the game may be diminished.

  An object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine that can increase a player's willingness to play a game by allowing the player to be involved to some extent in determining the contents of the production.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and the present invention provides the following.

  (1) Symbol display means (for example, a reel 3L described later) having a plurality of display sections (for example, display windows 4L, 4C, 4R described later) capable of variably displaying and stopping a plurality of types of symbols. , 3C, 3R, display windows 4L, 4C, 4R described later) and a winning combination determining means for determining a winning combination (for example, an internal winning combination described later, a carryover combination described below) from a plurality of predetermined combinations. For example, a means for performing an internal lottery process, which will be described later, a main control circuit 71, which will be described later, and a start control means (for example, a motor drive circuit 39, which will be described later, a stepping motor, which will be described later) for starting the variable display of the symbols 49L, 49C, 49R, a main control circuit 71 (to be described later), and a stop control means (for example, to be described later) for stopping the change display of symbols based on the winning combination determined by the winning combination determining means. 15 means for performing the processing of step S15 to step S17, a main control circuit 71 described later) and operation means for operation by the player (for example, a start lever 6, stop buttons 7L, 7C, 7R described later) And an operation means (for example, a liquid crystal display unit 5a to be described later), an effect control means (for example, a sub-control circuit 72 to be described later) for controlling the effect means, and the operation means are operated. Thus, effect state determining means (for example, an effect state determination table described later, a sub-control circuit 72 described later) that determines an effect state (for example, an effect state identifier described later) for determining an effect performed by the effect means. And an effect performed by the effect means is determined based on the effect state determined by the effect state determination means and the winning combination determined by the winning combination determination means. Effect determining means (for example, an effect determination table described later, a sub-control circuit 72 described later), and the effect control means controls the effect means so as to perform the effect determined by the effect determining means. A gaming machine characterized by that.

  According to the gaming machine described in (1), the effect performed by the effect means is determined based on the effect state and the winning combination determined by operating the operation means. Therefore, the player can be involved to some extent with the effect performed by the effect means. As a result, the player can select an effect desired by the player, and the player's willingness to play can be enhanced.

  (2) In the gaming machine described in (1), the operation means is start operation means (for example, a start lever 6 described later) for a player to operate to start variable display by the symbol display means. A gaming machine characterized by being.

  According to the gaming machine described in (2), it is possible to determine an effect performed by the effect means using the start operation means for starting the variable display. As a result, the player can select an effect desired by the player, and the player's willingness to play can be enhanced.

  (3) In the gaming machine described in (1), the operation means is a stop operation means (for example, stop buttons 7L, 7C, which will be described later) for the player to operate in order to stop the variable display by the symbol display means. 7R, etc.).

  According to the gaming machine described in (3), it is possible to determine the effect performed by the effect means using the stop operation means for stopping the variable display. As a result, the player can select an effect desired by the player, and the player's willingness to play can be enhanced.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a gaming machine that can increase a player's willingness to play a game by allowing the player to be involved to some extent in determining the contents of the production.

  FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an appearance of a gaming machine 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The gaming machine 1 is a so-called “pachislot machine”. This gaming machine 1 is a gaming machine that uses a gaming medium such as a card that stores information on gaming value given to or given to a player in addition to coins, medals, gaming balls, tokens, and the like. However, in the following description, medals are used.

  The casing 4 forming the entire gaming machine 1 includes a box-shaped cabinet 60 and a front door 2 that opens and closes the cabinet 60. Vertical rectangular display windows 4L, 4C, and 4R are provided in the approximate center of the front face of the front door 2. The display windows 4L, 4C and 4R are provided with a top line 8b, a center line 8c and a bottom line 8d in the horizontal direction as display lines, and a cross-up line 8a and a cross-down line 8e in an oblique direction.

  These display lines are activated by operating BET switches 11, 12, and 13, which will be described later (hereinafter referred to as “BET operation”), or by inserting medals into the medal insertion slot 22. The fact that the display line has been validated is indicated by lighting of BET lamps 9a, 9b, 9c, which will be described later.

  Here, the display lines 8a to 8e are related to the success or failure of the combination. Specifically, the symbols constituting the symbol combination corresponding to the predetermined combination are stopped and displayed side by side at a predetermined position corresponding to one of the active lines (the activated display lines), thereby the predetermined combination. Will be established.

  A plurality of reels 3L, 3C, 3R are rotatably provided in a row on the back surface of the front door 2. Each reel 3L, 3C, 3R has a symbol sequence as identification information composed of a plurality of types of symbols necessary for the game on the outer peripheral surface. The symbols of each reel 3L, 3C, 3R are It can be visually recognized from the outside of the gaming machine 1 through the display windows 4L, 4C, 4R. Further, each of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R rotates at a constant speed (for example, 80 rotations / minute), and the symbol row is variably displayed.

  Above the display windows 4L, 4C, 4R, a liquid crystal display unit 5a as an image display means and speakers 9L, 9R are provided. The liquid crystal display unit 5a has a larger display surface than the display windows 4L, 4C, and 4R, and produces an effect by image display. The speakers 9L and 9R perform effects such as sound effects and sounds.

  BET lamps 9a, 9b, and 9c are provided on the left side of the display windows 4L, 4C, and 4R. The 1-BET lamp 9a is turned on when one medal is bet to play one game, and the 2-BET lamp 9b is turned on when two medals are bet to play one game. To do. The 3-BET lamp 9c is turned on when three medals are bet to play one game.

  A substantially horizontal plane pedestal 10 is formed below the display windows 4L, 4C, 4R. In the horizontal plane of the pedestal 10, a medal slot 22 is provided on the right side, and a 1-BET switch 11, a 2-BET switch 12, and a maximum BET switch 13 are provided on the left side. When a medal is inserted into the medal slot 22, the inserted medal is bet on the game. If three or more medals are inserted, the medals are stored (credited) in the gaming machine 1.

  With the 1-BET switch 11, one of the credited medals is bet on the game by one pressing operation, and the center line 8c among the five display lines 8a to 8e is activated. When the 2-BET switch 12 is pressed once, two of the credited medals are bet on the game, and the top line 8b, the center line 8c, and the bottom line among the five display lines 8a to 8e. 8d is activated. By pressing the maximum BET switch 13 once, three of the credited medals are bet on the game, and all the display lines 8a to 8e are activated.

  A C / P switch 14 is provided on the left side of the front portion of the pedestal 10 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 opening 15 at the lower front, and the paid-out medals are stored in the medal receiving portion 16. On the right side of the C / P switch 14, the reel is rotated by a player's turning operation, and a start lever 6 serving as a start operation means for starting display of symbols in the display windows 4L, 4C, 4R. Is rotatably attached within a predetermined angle range.

  Stop buttons 7L, 7C, and 7R as stop operation means for stopping the rotations of the three reels 3L, 3C, and 3R by a player's pressing operation are provided at substantially the center of the front surface portion of the base portion 10, respectively. ing. In the 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 embodiment, the reel stop operation (stop button operation) performed when all the reels are rotating is “first stop operation”, and the stop operation performed after “first stop operation” is “ The stop operation performed after “second stop operation” and “second stop operation” is referred to as “third stop operation”.

  In front of the lower portion of the front door 2, a medal payout opening 15 for paying out medals and a medal receiving portion 16 for storing the payout medals are provided. A waist panel 20 with a design corresponding to the motif of the model is attached to the front surface of the lower part of the front door 2 between the stop buttons 7L, 7C, 7R and the medal receiving part 16. It has been.

  FIG. 2 shows a symbol row in which 21 types of symbols represented on each reel 3L, 3C, 3R are arranged. Each symbol is assigned a code number “00” to “20”, and is stored (stored) in a ROM 32 (FIG. 3) described later as a data table. On each of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R, “red 7 (design 91)”, “blue 7 (design 92)”, “cherry (design 93)”, “bell (design 94)”, “watermelon (design 95) ) "," Replay (symbol 96) ", and" Blank (symbol 97) ". Each reel 3L, 3C, 3R is rotationally driven so that the symbol row moves in the direction of the arrow in FIG.

  Here, BB1 (Big Bonus 1), BB2 (Big Bonus 2), Cherry, Bell, Watermelon, and Replay are provided in the role of the embodiment. BB1 and BB2 are accessory continuous action devices according to the first type special accessory.

  “Type 1 special character” is a character that increases the number of symbol combinations related to winnings per prescribed number, or increases the probability that the conditional device related to winnings per prescribed number operates. It means that it can be operated until it has been played and the game result is not exceeded 12 times.

  The “special feature continuous operating device related to the first type special feature” is a device capable of continuously operating the first type special feature, which is activated when a specific symbol combination is displayed in advance. This means that the operation is terminated when specified.

  In the following, BB1 and BB2 are collectively referred to as “BB”, and cherry, bell, and watermelon are collectively referred to as “small role”.

  The combination (combination data) is basically control information in which a profit given to a player is associated with a symbol combination, stop control of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R, switching (transition) of the game state, It is used for giving game value.

  In addition, the gaming state of the embodiment includes a general gaming state and an RB gaming state. The gaming state can be basically distinguished by the type of the internal lottery table used for determining the internal winning combination. Specifically, the gaming state can be distinguished by the type of a role that may be won internally, the probability of internal winning, and the like.

  The general gaming state is a gaming state in which an expected value of a so-called “play rate” (the number of medals to be paid out to the player with respect to the number of medals inserted to play a game) is smaller than one. This general gaming state is composed of a flag between BB and a non-flag that does not carry over. The “carryover combination” means a combination in which a corresponding symbol combination is allowed along one or more games along the active line, and between the flags, a symbol combination corresponding to BB is aligned along the active line. Is allowed across one or more games. In addition, there is no internal winning for BB between flags, and internal winning for BB may occur between non-flags, so even in the same general gaming state, different games are different between flags and non-flags. State.

  The RB gaming state is a gaming state constituted by a game in which the first type special character is operating.

  The RB gaming state can be identified by turning on or off the RB operating flag. The RB operating flag is information for identifying whether or not the gaming state is the RB gaming state. The condition for updating the RB operating flag to ON is that either a BB1 operating flag or a BB2 operating flag, which will be described later, is ON.

  The condition that the RB operating flag is updated to OFF is that the number of possible games is 0, the number of possible winnings is 0, or either the BB1 operating flag or the BB2 operating flag is updated to OFF. It is to be done. “Number of possible games” refers to the number of unit games that can be played in the RB gaming state, and is defined as 12 in the embodiment. The “number of wins possible” refers to the number of times that a prize can be won in the RB gaming state, and is defined as eight in the embodiment.

  The BB1 operating flag is information for identifying whether or not the BB1 operating flag is an advantageous state generated by establishment of BB1, and the same applies to the BB2 operating flag. These BB1 operating flag and BB2 operating flag are collectively referred to as “BB operating flag” hereinafter. The condition for updating the BB operating flag to ON is that BB is satisfied. The condition for updating the BB operating flag to OFF is that the number of medals paid out exceeds the payable number. “Payable number” refers to the number of medals that can be paid out in a game (game) from when the BB operating flag is updated to on until the BB operating flag is updated to off. Then, it is 350 sheets.

  Here, the relationship between the BB operating flag and the RB operating flag from when the BB operating flag is updated to on until it is updated to off will be described. When BB is established, the BB operating flag is updated to ON. When this BB operating flag is updated to ON, the RB operating flag is updated to ON. Then, when either the number of possible games or the number of possible winnings becomes 0, the RB operating flag is updated to OFF. If the BB operating flag is ON, the RB operating flag is updated to ON again.

  When the condition that the BB operating flag is updated to OFF is satisfied, the BB operating flag is updated to OFF. However, when the BB operating flag is updated to OFF, the RB operating flag is OFF. Updated to Therefore, when the BB operating flag is on, the RB operating flag is updated to on. That is, after BB is established, the RB gaming state is maintained until the BB operating flag is updated to OFF.

  3 is based on a main control circuit 71 that controls game processing operations in the gaming machine 1, peripheral devices (actuators) that are electrically connected to the main control circuit 71, and control commands transmitted from the main control circuit 71. A circuit configuration including a liquid crystal display unit 5a, speakers 9L and 9R, LEDs 101 and a sub-control circuit 72 for controlling lamps 102 is shown. Note that the states of the liquid crystal display unit 5 a, the LEDs 101, and the lamps 102 can be adjusted by operating the operation unit 17, and the volumes of the speakers 9 </ b> L and 9 </ b> R can be adjusted by operating the volume adjusting unit 103.

  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 that performs a control operation according to a preset program (FIGS. 14 to 19 described later), and a ROM 32 and a RAM 33 that are storage means.

  Connected to the CPU 31 are a clock pulse generator 34 and a frequency divider 35 for generating a reference clock pulse, and a random number generator 36 and a sampling circuit 37 for generating a random number to be sampled. As a means for random number sampling, random number sampling may be executed in the microcomputer 30, that is, on the operation program of the CPU 31. In that case, the random number generator 36 and the sampling circuit 37 can be omitted, or can be left as a backup for the random number sampling operation.

  The ROM 32 of the microcomputer 30 has an internal lottery table (FIG. 6 to be described later) used for determination of random number sampling performed every time the start lever 6 is operated (start operation), and a reel stop mode according to the operation of the stop button. A stop table group and the like for determining are stored. In addition, various control commands (commands) to be transmitted to the sub control circuit 72 are stored. The sub control circuit 72 does not input commands and information to the main control circuit 71, and communication is performed in one direction from the main control circuit 71 to the sub control circuit 72. Various information is stored in the RAM 33, and a storage area shown in FIG. In the RAM 33, for example, information such as an internal winning combination and a carryover combination is stored.

  In the circuit of FIG. 3, as the main actuators whose operation is controlled by a control signal from the microcomputer 30, BET lamps 9a, 9b, 9c and medals are housed, and a predetermined number of medals are in accordance with a command from the hopper drive circuit 41. And a stepping motor 49L, 49C, 49R that rotationally drives the reels 3L, 3C, 3R.

  Further, a motor driving circuit 39 for driving and controlling the stepping motors 49L, 49C and 49R, a hopper driving circuit 41 for driving and controlling the hopper 40, and a lamp driving circuit 45 for driving and controlling the BET lamps 9a, 9b and 9c are output portions of the CPU 31. It is connected to the. Each of these drive circuits receives a control signal such as a drive command output from the CPU 31 and controls the operation of each actuator.

  The main input signal generating means for generating an input signal necessary for the microcomputer 30 to generate a control command includes a start switch 6S, a stop switch 7LS, 7CS, 7RS, a 1-BET switch 11, and a 2-BET. There are a switch 12, a maximum BET switch 13, a C / P switch 14, a medal sensor 22S, a reel position detection circuit 50, and a payout completion signal circuit 51.

  The start switch 6S detects the operation of the start lever 6 and outputs a game start command signal (a signal for instructing the start of the game). The medal sensor 22S detects medals inserted into the medal insertion slot 22. The stop switches 7LS, 7CS, and 7RS generate a stop command signal (a signal for instructing to stop the change of the symbol) in accordance with the operation of the corresponding stop buttons 7L, 7C, and 7R. The reel position detection circuit 50 receives the pulse signal from the reel rotation sensor and supplies a signal for detecting the position of each reel 3L, 3C, 3R to the CPU 31. The payout completion signal circuit 51 generates a signal for detecting completion of the medal payout when the count value of the medal detection unit 40S (the number of medals paid out from the hopper 40) reaches the designated number data.

  In the circuit of FIG. 3, the random number generator 36 generates a random number belonging to a certain numerical range (random number range), and the sampling circuit 37 generates one random number at an appropriate timing after the start lever 6 is operated. Sampling. By using the random numbers sampled in this way, an internal winning combination is determined based on an internal lottery table stored in the ROM 32, for example. The internal symbol combination (internal symbol combination data) is indirectly associated with the corresponding symbol combination and the profit given to the player through the stop control mode or display combination corresponding to the internal symbol combination. It can be said that.

  After the rotation of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R is started, the number of drive pulses supplied to each of the stepping motors 49L, 49C, 49R is counted, and the counted value is written in a predetermined area of the RAM 33. From the reels 3L, 3C, 3R, reset pulses are obtained for each rotation, and these pulses are input to the CPU 31 via the reel position detection circuit 50. The count value of the drive pulse counted in the RAM 33 is cleared to “0” by the reset pulse thus obtained. As a result, the RAM 33 stores the count value corresponding to the rotational position within the range of one rotation for each of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R.

  A symbol table (not shown) is stored in the ROM 32 in order to associate the rotational positions of the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R with the symbols drawn on the outer peripheral surface of the reel. In this symbol table, the code number sequentially given for each fixed rotation pitch of each reel 3L, 3C, 3R with reference to the rotation position where the reset pulse is generated as described above is provided corresponding to each code number. A symbol code indicating the displayed symbol is associated with the symbol.

  Further, a symbol combination table (FIG. 8) is stored in the ROM 32. In this symbol combination table, a symbol combination that is a winning combination (winning or the like) is associated with the number of medals to be paid out when winning this symbol combination. The above symbol combination table is used when the left reel 3L, the central reel 3C, and the right reel 3R are controlled to stop, and when the winning is confirmed after the all reels 3L, 3C, 3R are stopped (display combination confirmation). Referenced. The display combination (display combination data) is basically a combination (established combination) corresponding to the symbol combination arranged along the effective line. The player is given a profit corresponding to the display combination.

  When an internal winning combination or a stop winning combination is determined by lottery processing (such as internal lottery processing) based on the random number sampling, the CPU 31 stops the stop switch 7LS at the timing when the player operates the stop buttons 7L, 7C, 7R. , 7CS, 7RS, and a signal for controlling the stop of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R to the motor drive circuit 39 based on the stop command signal and the determined stop table.

  If it becomes a stop mode (that is, a winning mode) indicating a winning combination, the CPU 31 supplies a payout command signal to the hopper driving circuit 41 and pays out a predetermined number of medals from the hopper 40. At that time, the medal detection unit 40S counts the number of medals to be paid out from the hopper 40, and inputs a medal payout completion signal to the CPU 31 when the counted value reaches a designated number. Thereby, CPU31 stops the drive of the hopper 40 via the hopper drive circuit 41, and complete | finishes a medal payout process.

  The configuration of the sub control circuit 72 will be described with reference to the block diagram of the sub control circuit 72 shown in FIG.

  The sub control circuit 72 includes an image control circuit (gSub) 72a and a sound / lamp control circuit (mSub) 72b. The image control circuit (gSub) 72 a or the sound / lamp control circuit (mSub) 72 b is configured on a circuit board different from the circuit board constituting the main control circuit 71.

  Communication between the main control circuit 71 and the image control circuit (gSub) 72a is performed in one direction from the main control circuit 71 to the image control circuit (gSub) 72a, and the image control circuit (gSub) 72a is connected to the main control circuit. No command or information is input to 71. Communication between the image control circuit (gSub) 72a and the sound / lamp control circuit (mSub) 72b is performed in one direction from the image control circuit (gSub) 72a to the sound / lamp control circuit (mSub) 72b. The sound / lamp control circuit (mSub) 72b does not input commands or information to the image control circuit (gSub) 72a.

  The image control circuit (gSub) 72a includes an image control microcomputer 81, a serial port 82, a program ROM 83, a work RAM 84, a calendar IC 85, an image control IC 86, a control RAM 87, an image ROM (CROM (character ROM)) 88, and a video RAM 89. The

  The image control microcomputer 81 includes a CPU, an interrupt controller, and an input / output port (a serial port is shown). The CPU provided in the image control microcomputer 81 performs various processes according to the control program stored in the program ROM 83 based on the command transmitted from the main control circuit 71. The image control circuit (gSub) 72a does not include a clock pulse generation circuit, a frequency divider, a random number generator, and a sampling circuit, but is configured to execute random number sampling on the operation program of the image control microcomputer 81. ing.

  The serial port 82 receives a command transmitted from the main control circuit 71. The program ROM 83 stores a control program (FIGS. 20 to 26 described later) executed by the image control microcomputer 81, various tables described later (FIGS. 11 to 13 described later), and the like.

  The work RAM 84 is configured as a temporary storage unit for work when the image control microcomputer 81 executes the control program described above. Various information is stored in the work RAM 84. For example, information on effect data determined with reference to an effect determination table (FIG. 13) described later is stored.

  The calendar IC 85 stores date data. An operation unit 17 is connected to the image control microcomputer 81. In the embodiment, the date etc. are set by operating the operation unit 17 by an employee of a game hall. The image control microcomputer 81 stores the date information set based on the input signal transmitted from the operation unit 17 in the calendar IC 85. The date information stored in the calendar IC 85 is backed up.

  The work RAM 84 and calendar IC 85 described above are backup targets. That is, even when the power supplied to the image control microcomputer 81 is interrupted, the power is continuously supplied, and the stored information is prevented from being erased.

  The image control IC 86 generates an image corresponding to the content of the effect determined by the image control microcomputer 81 and outputs it to the liquid crystal display unit 5a.

  The control RAM 87 is included in the image control IC 86. The image control microcomputer 81 writes and reads information and the like with respect to the control RAM 87. In the control RAM 87, a register of the image control IC 86, a sprite attribute table, and a color palette table are developed. The image control microcomputer 81 updates the register of the image control IC 86 and the sprite attribute table at every predetermined timing.

  The image control IC 86 is connected to the liquid crystal display unit 5a, the image ROM 88, and the video RAM 89. The image ROM 88 may be connected to the image control microcomputer 81. In this case, the configuration may be effective when processing a large amount of image data such as three-dimensional image data. The image ROM 88 stores image data, dot data, and the like for generating an image. The video RAM 89 is configured as a temporary storage unit when an image is generated by the image control IC 86. The image control IC 86 transmits a signal to the image control microcomputer 81 every time data in the video RAM 89 is transferred to the liquid crystal display unit 5a.

  In the image control circuit (gSub) 72a, the image control microcomputer 81 also controls the effects of sound and lamps. The image control microcomputer 81 determines the type of sound / lamp and the output timing based on the determined effect. The image control microcomputer 81 transmits a command to the sound / lamp control circuit (mSub) 72b via the serial port 82 at every predetermined timing. In the sound / lamp control circuit (mSub) 72b, only the sound / lamp output is performed mainly in accordance with the command transmitted from the image control circuit (gSub) 72a (excluding the volume adjustment control described later). .

  The sound / lamp control circuit (mSub) 72b includes a sound / lamp control microcomputer 111, a serial port 112, a program ROM 113, a work RAM 114, a sound source IC 115, a power amplifier 116, and a sound source ROM 117.

  The sound / lamp control microcomputer 111 includes a CPU, an interrupt controller, and an input / output port (a serial port is shown). The CPU provided in the sound / lamp control microcomputer 111 performs sound / lamp output processing according to the control program stored in the program ROM 113 based on the command transmitted from the image control circuit (gSub) 72a. The sound / lamp control microcomputer 111 is connected to LEDs 101 and lamps 102. The sound / lamp control microcomputer 111 transmits an output signal to the LEDs 101 and the lamps 102 in response to a command transmitted from the image control circuit (gSub) 72a at a predetermined timing. As a result, the LEDs 101 and the lamps 102 emit light in a predetermined manner according to the effect.

  The serial port 112 receives a command transmitted from the image control circuit (gSub) 72a. The program ROM 113 stores a control program executed by the sound / lamp control microcomputer 111 and the like. The work RAM 114 is configured as temporary storage means for work when the sound / lamp control microcomputer 111 executes the control program described above.

  The sound source IC 115 generates a sound source based on the command transmitted from the image control circuit (gSub) 72 a and outputs the sound source to the power amplifier 116. The power amplifier 116 is an amplifier, and speakers 9L and 9R are connected to the power amplifier 116. The power amplifier 116 amplifies the sound source output from the sound source IC 115 and outputs the amplified sound source from the speakers 9L and 9R. The sound source ROM 117 stores sound source data (phrase etc.) for generating a sound source.

  The sound / lamp control microcomputer 111 is connected to a volume control unit 103. The volume control unit 103 can be operated by employees of the game hall and the like, and the volume output from the speakers 9L and 9R is adjusted. The sound / lamp control microcomputer 111 performs volume adjustment control for adjusting the sound output from the speakers 9L and 9R to the input volume based on the input signal transmitted from the volume adjustment unit 103.

  The internal lottery table determination table will be described with reference to FIG. The internal lottery table determination table includes information on the type of the internal lottery table corresponding to the gaming state and information on the number of lotteries.

  Here, when the gaming state is the general gaming state, an internal lottery table for general gaming state ((1) in FIG. 6 described later) is selected, and 6 is determined as the number of lotteries (described later in FIG. 17). Step S41). The number of lotteries is the number of times required for determining the internal winning combination. However, even if the gaming state is the general gaming state, if it is between the flags, the number of lotteries determined to be 6 is updated to 4 (step S43 in FIG. 17 described later). When the gaming state is the RB gaming state, an internal lottery table for RB gaming state ((2) in FIG. 6 described later) is selected, and 3 is determined as the number of lotteries (described later in FIG. 20). Step S41).

  The internal lottery table will be described with reference to (1) and (2) of FIG.

  The internal lottery table is basically provided for each gaming state and includes information on the lower limit value and the upper limit value of the numerical value range corresponding to the winning number. As will be described later with reference to FIG. 7, since the winning number corresponds to the winning combination, the internal lottery table stores the upper limit value and the lower limit value of the numerical range corresponding to each of a plurality of predetermined winning combinations. Have information.

  (1) in FIG. 6 shows an internal lottery table for a general gaming state, which is referred to when in the general gaming state. (2) in FIG. 6 shows an internal lottery table for RB gaming state with a higher probability of determining a small combination as a winning combination than when referring to the internal lottery table for general gaming state. Referenced.

  In the determination of the winning number (lottery) based on the internal lottery table, the random number is a lower limit value corresponding to the winning number until the winning number becomes 0 in descending order from the same winning number as the number of lotteries determined for each gaming state. It is determined whether it is within the range indicated by the upper limit value. If the random number value is within the range indicated by the lower limit value and the upper limit value, the corresponding winning number is won. In addition, the number of times of determining whether or not it is within the range indicated by the lower limit value and the upper limit value corresponding to the winning number is the same as the number of lotteries determined in the internal lottery table determination table of FIG.

  If the random number is not within the range indicated by the lower limit value and the upper limit value until the winning number becomes 0, the winning number is 0 (lost). The internal winning combination lose indicates that the internal lottery did not win the combination associated with the player's profit. Further, the loss in the embodiment is not a combination associated with the game value. In addition, the symbol combination corresponding to the loss as the internal winning combination can be considered as an arbitrary symbol combination different from the symbol combination corresponding to the plurality of predetermined combinations. The corresponding symbol combination is not provided.

  The internal winning combination is determined based on the winning number won, the gaming state, the number of inserted games, and an internal winning combination determination table (FIG. 7 described later).

  For example, a case will be described in which the general gaming state internal lottery table shown in (1) of FIG. When the random value R extracted from the range of 0 to 65535 is 12000, the numerical range information corresponding to the winning number 6 is the numerical range where the lower limit L is “15580” and the upper limit U is “15679”. Since it is information, first, a random number value R (12000) −lower limit value L (15580) is calculated for the winning number 6. The result of this calculation is negative. Therefore, since the random value is not in the numerical range corresponding to the winning number (L ≦ R ≦ U), if the random value extracted in the general gaming state is 12000, the winning number 6 is unfair.

  As described above, when the calculation of the random number value R (12000) −the lower limit value L and the calculation of the random number value R (12000) −the upper limit value U are repeated until the winning number becomes 0, the winning number 4 is won, The winning number is illegal. Therefore, when the random number value extracted in the general gaming state is 12000, winning by the winning number 4 and referring to the internal winning combination determination table (FIG. 7) described later, the replay becomes the internal winning combination.

  In addition, in the case of between flags, the number of lotteries is changed to 4. Thereby, there is no case where the winning numbers 5 and 6 are won between the flags. Therefore, according to the internal winning combination determination table (FIG. 7) described later, between the flags, BB1 and BB2 are not determined as internal winning combinations.

  Further, referring to the internal lottery table for RB gaming state shown in (2) of FIG. 6, this table is configured so that the numerical range corresponding to the winning numbers 1 to 3 is wider than the other internal lottery tables. ing. In other words, the RB gaming state internal lottery table is configured such that cherries, bells, and watermelons are determined as winning combinations with higher probability than other internal lottery tables. In the internal lottery table for the RB gaming state, the winning numbers corresponding to the winning numbers 4 to 6 in the internal lottery table for the general gaming state are not provided. Therefore, in the RB gaming state, replay, BB1, and BB2 are not determined as winning combinations.

  The internal winning combination determination table will be described with reference to FIG.

  The internal winning combination determination table includes information (data) of an internal winning combination corresponding to the winning number. The internal winning combination data is represented in binary. The data of the internal winning combination shown corresponding to the winning number is information for identifying the internal winning combination and is 1-byte data.

  For example, when the winning number is “0”, “00000000” (internal winning combination) is determined as the data of the internal winning combination. The internal winning combination corresponding to this data is losing. When the winning number is “1”, “00000001” is determined as the data of the internal winning combination. The internal winning combination corresponding to this data is cherry. Similarly, for the winning numbers “2” to “6”, data corresponding to the winning number is determined, and the internal winning combination is determined.

  The symbol combination table will be described with reference to FIG.

  The symbol combination table includes a display combination corresponding to a combination of symbols stopped and displayed at each of the three symbol stop positions connected by one effective line, and information on the number of payouts for each inserted number corresponding to the display combination. ing. This symbol combination table is referred to when the payout number is determined according to the symbol combination displayed along the active line after all reels 3L, 3C, 3R are stopped.

  When the aforementioned winning number is 1 (cherry), the display combination may be cherry. In the case where the display combination is cherry, among the five active lines, the middle cherry in which “cherry (medium) -ANY-ANY” is arranged along the center line 8c, and along the effective lines excluding the center line “ There is a corner cherry with “cherry (corner) -ANY-ANY” lined up. “Cherry (Middle)” indicates “Cherry” stopped and displayed in the middle of the left display window 4L, and “Cherry (Corner)” indicates “Cherry” stopped and displayed in the upper or lower stage of the left display window 4L. ". “ANY” indicates an arbitrary symbol. When the display combination is medium cherry, according to the symbol combination table, when the number of inserted coins is 1 or 2, 15 medals are paid out, and when the number of inserted coins is 3, four medals are displayed. Paid out. On the other hand, when the display combination is a square cherry and the inserted number is 1 or 2, 15 medals are paid out according to the symbol combination table, but when the inserted number is 3 for the square cherry. Is a symbol combination of “cherry (corner) -ANY-ANY” on two effective lines (top line 8b and cross-down line 8e, or bottom line 8d and cross-up line 8a). Medals are paid out.

  When “Bell-Bell-Bell” is arranged along the effective line, the display combination becomes a bell. When the number of inserted coins is 1 or 2, 15 medals are paid out. When the number of inserted coins is 3, Ten medals are paid out. When “watermelon-watermelon-watermelon” are arranged along the active line, the display combination becomes a watermelon, and eight medals are paid out regardless of the number of inserted coins. When “Replay-Replay-Replay” is arranged along the active line, the display combination is replayed and medals are automatically inserted.

  When “red 7-red 7-red 7” are arranged along the active line, the display combination is BB1, and the big bonus is activated by turning on the BB1 operating flag. At this time, the gaming state shifts from the general gaming state to the RB gaming state. When “blue 7-blue 7-blue 7” is arranged along the active line, the display combination is BB2, and the big bonus is activated by turning on the BB2 operating flag. At this time, the gaming state shifts to the RB gaming state.

  With reference to FIG. 9, the bonus operation time table will be described.

  The bonus operating time table includes information on an operating flag, which will be described later, a bonus end number counter, which will be described later, a possible number of games, and a possible number of winnings, for each display combination. This bonus operating time table is referred to in the processing in step S33 in FIG. 16 described later and the processing in step S82 in FIG. 19 described later.

  The “in-operation flag” refers to information for identifying an operating game state (current game state). In the working flag of the embodiment, a BB working flag for identifying whether or not a BB (actual accessory continuous actuating device) is working and an RB gaming state for working or not are identified. There are a plurality of operating flags including an RB operating flag. The BB operating flag identifies the BB1 operating flag for identifying that BB has been activated when BB1 is established as a display combination, and identifies that the BB has been activated by establishing BB2 as a display combination. It is a general term for the BB2 operating flag for the purpose.

  The “bonus end number counter” is provided for counting the number of medals paid out in the game from when the BB operating flag is updated to on until the BB operating flag is updated to off. It is provided in the area. In the embodiment, the counter is set to “350” on condition that the BB operating flag is updated to ON, and is subtracted according to the number of medals paid out during the operation of BB. When the value of the bonus end number counter becomes “0” or less, the BB operating flag is updated to OFF. As described above, in the embodiment, the number of medals to be paid out is counted by the count-down method of subtracting from the initial value, but this is not substantially different from the case of counting by the count-up method of integrating from 0.

  With reference to (1) to (4) of FIG. 10, the storage area (storage area) of the internal winning combination, carryover combination, gaming state, and operating flag will be described. These storage areas are provided in both the main control circuit 71 and the sub-control circuit 72.

  (1) of FIG. 10 shows an internal winning combination storing area. Bit 0 is a storage area corresponding to cherry. Bit 1 is a storage area corresponding to the bell. Bit 2 is a storage area corresponding to a watermelon. Bit 3 is a storage area corresponding to replay. Bit 4 is a storage area corresponding to BB1. Bit 5 is a storage area corresponding to BB2. Bits 6 and 7 are unused storage areas.

  Although the illustration of the display combination storage area where the display combination data is stored is omitted, it has the same data structure as the internal winning combination storage area (internal winning combination 1 storage area, internal winning combination 2 storage area). ing.

  (2) of FIG. 10 shows a carryover combination storage area. Bit 4 is a storage area corresponding to BB1. Bit 5 is a storage area corresponding to BB2. Bit 0 to bit 3, bit 6, and bit 7 are unused storage areas. In the embodiment, when there is a carryover combination (between flags), “1” is stored in the storage area corresponding to the carryover combination. For example, when the carryover combination is BB1, “1” is stored in bit 0 of the carryover combination storage area.

  (3) of FIG. 10 shows a game state storage area. Bit 0 is a storage area corresponding to the general gaming state. Bit 1 is a storage area corresponding to the RB gaming state. Bits 2 to 7 are unused storage areas.

  (4) of FIG. 10 shows the operating flag storage area. Bit 0 is a storage area corresponding to the BB1 operating flag. Bit 1 is a storage area corresponding to the BB2 operating flag. Bit 2 is a storage area corresponding to the RB operating flag. Bits 3 to 7 are unused storage areas.

  The jump table of the sub control circuit 72 will be described with reference to FIG.

  The jump table includes information on processing to be performed according to the type of the received command when the command (information or command) transmitted from the main control circuit 71 is received. Specifically, information on a plurality of types of processing to be executed corresponding to the “identifier” of the command transmitted by the main control circuit 71 is stored. The main control circuit 71 transmits data (information) composed of “4 bytes” to “8 bytes” to the sub control circuit 72 as one command, but the “first data” is the “first byte”. Data is shown.

  For example, when a medal insertion command is received, the image control microcomputer 81 performs medal insertion command processing. The medal insertion command process is a process performed when a medal is inserted into the medal insertion slot 22. When the game start command is received, the image control microcomputer 81 performs a game start command process. The game start command processing is processing that is triggered by the internal lottery processing or the like being performed according to the operation of the start lever 6. When the reel stop command is received, the image control microcomputer 81 performs a reel stop command process. The reel stop command process is a process performed when any one of the stop buttons 7L, 7C, 7R is operated.

  When the all-reel stop command is received, the image control microcomputer 81 performs all-reel stop command processing. The all reel stop command process is a process that is performed when the third stop operation is performed. When the display combination establishment command is received, the image control microcomputer 81 performs display combination establishment command processing. The display combination establishment command process is a process performed based on the success or failure of the display combination.

  When a bonus start command is received, the image control microcomputer 81 performs a bonus start command process. The bonus start command process is a process for executing notification of the timing at which the BB operates. When the BB end game operation command is received, the image control microcomputer 81 performs a BB end game operation command process. The BB end game operation command process is a process for executing notification of the timing at which the BB ends.

  The effect state determination table will be described with reference to FIG.

  The effect state determination table includes information on the contents of effect data corresponding to the effect state identifier for each effect state counter. The performance state counter is a counter that is updated every 2 seconds after the end of one game and until the start lever 6 is operated (step S132 in FIG. 23), and is stored in a predetermined area of the work RAM 84. Is done. The effect state identifier is used to roughly determine the contents of the effect performed on the liquid crystal display unit 5 a and is stored in a predetermined area of the work RAM 84.

  For example, when the production state counter is 1, the production state identifier is 1, and a state in which the main character is facing upward is displayed on the liquid crystal display unit 5a (see (1) in FIG. 27). When the production state counter is 2, the production state identifier is 2, and the liquid crystal display unit 5a displays a state in which the main character turns to the right (see (2) in FIG. 27). When the production state counter is 3, the production state identifier is 3, and the liquid crystal display unit 5a displays a state in which the main character faces left (see (3) in FIG. 27). When the effect state counter is 4, the effect state identifier is 4, and the liquid crystal display unit 5a displays a state in which the main character faces downward (see (4) in FIG. 27).

  In the embodiment, the main character is displayed on the liquid crystal display unit 5a until the start lever 6 is operated after the end of one game, and the direction of the main character changes every 2 seconds. In the liquid crystal display unit 5a, an effect corresponding to the direction of the main character (effect state identifier) when the player operates the start lever 6 is performed.

  The effect determination table will be described with reference to FIG.

  The effect determination table is provided for each effect state identifier. (1) in FIG. 13 is an effect determination table that is referred to when the effect state identifier is 1, and (4) in FIG. 13 is an effect determination table that is referred to when the effect state identifier is 4. is there. In addition, illustration is abbreviate | omitted about the effect determination table referred when an effect state identifier is 2 or 3. FIG. The effect determination table is referred to when the start lever 6 is operated by the player (when the effect state identifier is determined).

  This effect determination table includes information on the effect number corresponding to the lottery value for each internal winning combination. The “lottery value” is a value to be subtracted from the extracted random number value. When the lottery value is subtracted from the random number value and the subtracted value is negative, an effect number corresponding to the lottery value is selected. The “production number” is used to determine the content of a specific production performed on the liquid crystal display unit 5 a and is stored in a predetermined storage area of the work RAM 84.

  For example, referring to (1) of FIG. 13, when the internal winning combination is watermelon and the extracted random number value is “21000”, first, from “21000”, the production number “1-1” is handled. Subtract the lottery value “1000”. The subtracted value is “20000” (a positive value). Next, the lottery value “25000” corresponding to the production number “1-2” is subtracted from this “20000”. The subtracted value is negative. Therefore, “1-2” is selected as the production number.

  Reference is made to (1) of FIG. When the production number is “1-2”, a shooting star effect is announced to notify the internal winning combination by a star flowing in the sky. When the production number is “1-3”, the fireworks that are launched A fireworks effect is provided to notify the winning combination (see (1) in FIG. 28). Here, (1) in FIG. 13 is referred to when the performance state identifier is 1, and referring to FIG. 12, when the protagonist character is facing upward, the player starts the start lever 6. When is operated. These shooting star effects and fireworks effects are effects related to the sky (upward direction).

  Similarly, reference is made to (4) of FIG. When the production number is “4-2”, a mole production that informs the internal winning combination is performed by an object held by the mole that appears by digging the ground (see (2) in FIG. 28). In the case of “4-3”, a flower effect for notifying the internal winning combination is performed by a flower blooming on the ground. Here, (4) in FIG. 13 is referred to when the performance state identifier is 4, and referring to FIG. 12, when the protagonist character faces downward, the player starts the start lever 6. When is operated. These mole effects and flower effects are effects related to the ground (downward).

  From the viewpoint of the player, the contents of the production can be involved to some extent based on the direction of the main character when the start lever 6 is operated. That is, for example, when the player desires an effect related to the sky, the effect related to the sky is performed on the liquid crystal display unit 5a by operating the start lever 6 when the main character is facing up. Can do. As a result, the player is given a room for selecting an effect desired by the player, and the player's willingness to play can be enhanced.

  The control operation of the main control circuit 71 will be described with reference to the main flowcharts shown in FIGS.

  First, the CPU 31 performs initialization at the start of the game (step S1). In step S1, initialization of storage contents of the RAM 33, initialization of communication data, and the like are performed. Subsequently, the predetermined stored contents of the RAM 33 at the end of the game are erased (step S2), and the process proceeds to step S3. In this step S2, the data in the writable area of the RAM 33 used in the previous game is erased, the parameters necessary for the next game are written in the write area of the RAM 33, the start address of the sequence program of the next game is designated, etc. Is done.

  In step S3, a bonus operation monitoring process described with reference to FIG. 16 described later is performed, and the process proceeds to step S4. In this process, when the BB operating flag is on, processing is performed to update the RB operating flag to on so that the RB gaming state continues even after the RB gaming state ends. In step S4, medal insertion / start check processing is performed, and the process proceeds to step S5. In this processing, processing such as updating the number of BETs is performed based on inputs from the start switch 6S, the medal sensor 22S, or the BET switches 11 to 13, and a medal insertion command is also transmitted to the sub-control circuit 72. To do.

  In step S5, a random number for lottery is extracted, and the process proceeds to step S6. The random numbers extracted in this process are used in an internal lottery process described later. In step S6, a game state monitoring process is performed, and the process proceeds to step S7. In this process, it is determined whether or not the gaming state transition condition is satisfied. If it is determined that the gaming state transition condition is satisfied, the gaming state is shifted and the gaming state transition condition is satisfied. If it is not discriminated, processing for maintaining the current gaming state is performed.

  In step S7, an internal lottery process which will be described later with reference to FIG. 17 is performed, and the process proceeds to step S8. In step S8, a game start command is transmitted to the sub-control circuit 72, and the process proceeds to step S9. This game start command includes information such as a game state, an internal winning combination, and the number of credits.

  In step S9, it is determined whether 4.1 seconds have elapsed since the previous game started. When this determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S11, and when NO, the process proceeds to step S10. In step S10, a game start waiting time digest process (wait process) is performed, and the process proceeds to step S11. In this process, a process of invalidating an input based on an operation for starting a game by the player is performed until 4.1 seconds elapse from the start of the previous game.

  In step S121, a game monitoring timer is set, and the process proceeds to step S12. This game monitoring timer includes an automatic stop timer for automatically stopping the reels 3L, 3C, 3R regardless of the stop operation of the player's stop buttons 7L, 7C, 7R. In step S12, the start of rotation of all reels is requested, and the process proceeds to step S13 in FIG.

  In step S13 of FIG. 15, it is determined whether or not the stop switch (stop switch) is “ON”, that is, whether any one of the stop buttons 7L, 7C, and 7R has been operated. When this determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S15, and when 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”. When this determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S15, and when NO, the process proceeds to step S13.

  In step S15, the number of sliding symbols is determined, and the process proceeds to step S16. In this process, the number of sliding pieces is determined and set from the stop control position corresponding to the stop start position with reference to a stop table (not shown) corresponding to the internal winning combination. In step S16, the process waits for the reels 3L, 3C, 3R corresponding to the stop buttons 7L, 7C, 7R, which have been stopped, to rotate by the number of sliding pieces determined in step S15, and then proceeds to step S17.

  In step S17, the rotation stop of the reel is requested, and the process proceeds to step S18. In step S18, a reel stop command is transmitted to the sub-control circuit 72, and the process proceeds to step S19. The reel stop command includes information on the stop start positions of the stopped reels 3L, 3C, 3R and information on stop control positions corresponding to the stop start positions. In step S19, it is determined whether or not all reels have stopped. When this determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S20, and when NO, the process proceeds to step S13.

  In step S20, an all reel stop command is transmitted to the sub-control circuit 72, and the process proceeds to step S21. In step S21, a display combination search process is performed, and the process proceeds to step S22. In the display combination search process, a process for setting a flag for identifying a display combination (a winning combination) based on a symbol stop mode in the display windows 4L, 4C, and 4R is performed.

  In step S22, a display combination establishment command is transmitted to the sub-control circuit 72, and the process proceeds to step S23. The display combination establishment command includes information on the established display combination. In step S23, a medal payout process is performed, and the process proceeds to step S24. In this process, based on the flag set in the display combination search process, referring to the symbol combination table (FIG. 8), the corresponding payout number of medals is stored (credit) or paid out.

  In step S24, the bonus end number counter is updated based on the payout number, and the process proceeds to step S25. In this process, when the bonus end number counter is 1 or more, the counter is subtracted according to the number of medals paid out.

  In step S25, it is determined whether or not the RB operating flag or the BB operating flag is on. When this determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S26, and when it is NO, the process proceeds to step S27. In step S26, a bonus end check process described later with reference to FIG. 18 is performed, and the process proceeds to step S27. In step S27, a bonus operation check process described later with reference to FIG. 19 is performed, and the process proceeds to step S2 in FIG.

  With reference to FIG. 16, the bonus operation monitoring process will be described.

  First, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the BB operating flag is on (step S31). When this determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S32, and when this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S4 in FIG. In step S32, it is determined whether or not the RB operating flag is ON. When this determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S4 in FIG. 14, and when NO, the process proceeds to step S33.

  In step S33, RB operation processing is performed based on the bonus operation table (FIG. 9), and the process proceeds to step S4 in FIG. In this process, a process for updating the RB operating flag to ON is performed. Then, a process for setting the possible number of games to 12 and setting the possible number of winnings to 8 is performed.

  By performing the processing of step S31 to step S33, even if the condition for updating the RB operation flag to OFF is satisfied and the RB operation flag is updated to OFF, the BB operation flag is ON. In this case, the RB operating flag can be updated to ON again, and the RB gaming state can be operated continuously.

  The internal lottery process will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, the CPU 31 refers to the internal lottery table determination table (FIG. 5), determines the type and number of lotteries in the internal lottery table (FIG. 6) according to the gaming state (step S41), and proceeds to step S42. In step S42, it is determined whether or not the data (information) stored in the carryover combination storage area is 0 (presence of carryover combination). When this determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S44, and when this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S43.

  In step S43, the number of lotteries is changed (updated) to 4, and the process proceeds to step S44. In step S44, the same value as the number of lotteries is set as the winning number, and the process proceeds to step S45. As a result, “6” is set as the winning number in the general gaming state (between non-flags), “4” in the general gaming state (between flags), and “3” in the RB gaming state.

  In step S45, referring to the internal lottery table determined in step S41, the stored random number value is compared with the winning number and the lower limit value (L) and upper limit value (U) corresponding to the stored setting. The process proceeds to step S46. In step S46, it is determined whether or not the stored random number value is not less than the lower limit value and not more than the upper limit value. When this determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S47, and when NO, the process proceeds to step S49.

  In step S47, with reference to the internal winning combination determination table (FIG. 7), the internal winning combination and storage area type are determined based on the winning number, and the process proceeds to step S48. In step S48, the address of the internal winning combination storage area is set based on the storage area type, the set address is stored in a predetermined area of the RAM 33, and the process proceeds to step S49.

  In step S49, the number of lotteries is decremented by 1, and the process proceeds to step S50. In step S50, it is determined whether the number of lotteries is zero. When this determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S51, and when this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S44.

  In step S51, the logical sum of the internal winning combination storage area and the carryover combination storage area is stored in the carryover combination storage area, and the process proceeds to step S52. With this process, the carryover combination can be stored in the carryover combination storage area. In step S52, the logical sum of the internal symbol combination storage area and the carryover combination storage area is stored in the internal symbol combination storage area, and the process proceeds to step S8 in FIG.

  The bonus end check process will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, the CPU 31 determines whether or not a winning is achieved (step S61). When this determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S62, and when it is NO, the process proceeds to step S69. In step S62, it is determined whether or not the BB operating flag is ON. Specifically, it is determined whether or not the data of bit 0 or bit 1 in the operating flag storage area ((4) in FIG. 10) is “1”. When this determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S63, and when this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S67.

  In step S63, it is determined whether or not the bonus end number counter is “0” or less. When this determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S64, and when it is NO, the process proceeds to step S67.

  In step S64, processing at the end of RB is performed, and the process proceeds to step S65. In this RB end time process, an RB operating flag is updated to OFF, and a process of updating the number of possible winnings and the number of possible games to “0” is performed. In step S65, processing at the end of BB is performed, and the process proceeds to step S66. In this BB end time process, the BB operating flag (BB1 operating flag and BB2 operating flag) is updated to OFF, and the bonus end number counter is updated to “0”. In step S66, a bonus end command is transmitted to the sub-control circuit 72, and the process proceeds to step S27 in FIG.

  In step S67, "1" is subtracted from the number of possible winnings, and the process proceeds to step S68. In step S68, it is determined whether or not the possible number of winnings is “0”. When this determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S71, and when this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S69. In step S69, “1” is subtracted from the possible number of games, and the process proceeds to step S70. In step S70, it is determined whether or not the possible number of games is “0”. When this determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S71, and when it is NO, the process proceeds to step S27 in FIG. In step S71, processing at the end of RB is performed, and the process proceeds to step S27 in FIG.

  The bonus operation check process will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the display combination is BB1 or BB2 (step S81). When this determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S82, and when it is NO, the process proceeds to step S85. In step S82, bonus operation time processing is performed based on the bonus operation time table (FIG. 9), and the process proceeds to step S83. In this bonus activation process, the BB activation flag is updated to ON, and the bonus end number counter is set to “350”.

  In step S83, a process of clearing the carryover combination storage area, that is, a process of updating the data stored in the carryover combination storage area to “00000000” is performed, and the process proceeds to step S84. In step S84, a bonus start command is transmitted to the sub-control circuit 72, and the process proceeds to step S2 in FIG.

  In step S85, it is determined whether or not the display combination is replay. When this determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S86, and when NO, the process proceeds to step S2 in FIG. In step S86, the process of copying the insertion number counter to the automatic insertion counter, that is, the process of setting the same value as the number of insertions inserted for the current game in the automatic insertion counter is performed, and the process proceeds to step S2 in FIG. .

  The control operation of the image control circuit (gSub) 72a will be described with reference to the flowcharts shown in FIGS.

  The reset interrupt process of the image control circuit 72a will be described with reference to FIG.

  When the power is turned on and a voltage is applied to the reset terminal, the image control microcomputer 81 generates a reset interrupt. The reset interrupt process is sequentially executed based on the occurrence of this interrupt.

  First, the image control microcomputer 81 initializes the work RAM 84, the control RAM 87, the video RAM 89, and the like (step S101), and proceeds to step S102. In step S102, input monitoring processing is performed, and the process proceeds to step S103. In this process, a process for determining whether or not a command has been received is performed by determining whether or not there is data in the command buffer (storage area for storing the command transmitted from the main control circuit 71).

  In step S103, command input processing described later with reference to FIG. 21 is performed, and the process proceeds to step S104. In step S104, a command output process for outputting a command to the sound / lamp control circuit (mSub) 72b is performed, and the process proceeds to step S105. In step S105, an image control process described later with reference to FIG. 23 is performed, and the process proceeds to step S101.

  The command input process will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, the image control microcomputer 81 determines whether there is data in the command buffer, that is, whether a command has been received (step S111). When this determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S112, and when NO, the process proceeds to step S104 in FIG.

  In step S112, it is determined whether or not the received command is a game start command. When this determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S113, and when this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S114. In step S113, a game start command process described later with reference to FIG. 22 is performed, and the process proceeds to step S115.

  In step S114, a process corresponding to the received command is performed, and the process proceeds to step S115. In step S115, the data stored in the command buffer is deleted, and the process proceeds to step S104 in FIG.

  With reference to FIG. 22, the game start command processing will be described.

  First, the image control microcomputer 81 determines whether or not the BB operating flag is on (step S121). When this determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S115 in FIG. 21, and when this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S122. In step S122, an effect state identifier is determined based on the value of the effect state counter, and the process proceeds to step S123.

  In step S123, an effect number is determined based on the effect state identifier and the internal winning combination with reference to the effect determination table (FIG. 13), and the process proceeds to step S124. In step S124, effect data corresponding to the effect number is set, and the process proceeds to step S115 in FIG.

  With reference to FIG. 23, the effect state determination process will be described. This effect state determination process is performed from the end of one game until the game start command is transmitted in the next game.

  First, the image control microcomputer 81 determines whether 2 seconds have elapsed. When this determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S132, and when this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S131. In step S132, effect state counter update processing is performed, and the process proceeds to step S132. In this process, 1 is added to the effect state counter (see FIG. 12) (if the effect state counter is 4, it is updated to 1). In step S133, effect data is set based on the effect state identifier corresponding to the effect state counter, and the process proceeds to step S131.

  By performing such processing, the presentation state identifier can be updated each time a predetermined time (2 seconds) elapses, and at the same time, the image displayed on the liquid crystal display unit 5a can be updated. (See FIG. 27 described later). Then, by transmitting the game start command, an effect state identifier is determined, and an effect number (effect data) is determined based on the effect state identifier (steps S122 to S124 in FIG. 22).

  The image control process will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, the image control microcomputer 81 determines whether or not the image buffer flag is on (step S141). The “image buffer flag” is used to determine whether image data is ready to be written in the control RAM 87 of the image control IC 86. This image buffer flag is set on when ready to write, and off when not ready to write. When this determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S144, and when NO, the process proceeds to step S142.

  In step S142, an image data update process is performed, and the process proceeds to step S143. In this image data update process, the content of data to be applied to the sprite attribute table developed in the control RAM 87 is specified, and the specified data is transferred to the image buffer. The specified data includes, for example, effect data corresponding to the effect identifier. In step S143, the image buffer flag is updated to ON, and the process proceeds to step S144.

  In step S144, it is determined whether or not the value of the image control IC counter is “2”. When this determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S145, and when NO, the process proceeds to step S101 in FIG. The value that the image control IC counter can take is any one of “0”, “1”, and “2”, and this value is updated by image control IC / int processing that will be described later with reference to FIG. Is called. In the image control IC / int process, a process of adding 1 to the value of the image control IC counter is performed in response to reception of a signal transmitted from the image control IC 86 every 1000/60 ms.

  In step S145, "0" is set in the image control IC counter, and the process proceeds to step S146. According to the processing of step S144 and step S145, the value of the image control IC counter becomes “2” every time 1000/30 ms elapses. Therefore, it is possible to determine whether or not 1000/30 ms has elapsed by the processing in step S144. When 1000/30 ms has elapsed, image data is transmitted to the image control IC 86 when the image buffer flag is on. The timing can be.

  In step S146, a bank switching command is transmitted to the image control IC 86, and the process proceeds to step S147. In step S147, the image data is transferred from the image buffer to the control RAM 87, and the process proceeds to step S148. By this processing, the image data transferred to the image buffer in step S142 described above can be transferred to the sprite attribute table developed in the control RAM 87.

  In step S148, the image buffer is cleared, and the process proceeds to step S149. In step S149, the image buffer flag is updated to OFF, and the process proceeds to step S101 in FIG.

  The image control IC / int process will be described with reference to FIG.

  This image control IC / int process starts in response to reception of a signal transmitted from the image control IC 86 every 1000/60 ms. As the process starts, “1” is added to the value of the image control IC counter (step S151). The image control IC counter is a counter used to determine whether or not 1000/30 ms has elapsed since the previous transmission of the bank switching command from the image control microcomputer 81 to the image control IC 86.

  The 2 ms interrupt process will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, the image control microcomputer 81 determines whether 2 ms has passed (step S161). When this determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S162, and when NO, step S161 is repeated.

  In step S162, the random number counter is updated, and the process proceeds to step S163. The updated value of the random number counter is referred to when determining the production number or the like. In this process, a plurality of random number counters are updated. In step S163, effect data update processing is performed, and the process proceeds to step S161. By this effect data update process, a video (image) corresponding to the effect data set in the process of step S124 of FIG. 22 and the like can be displayed on the liquid crystal display unit 5a.

  A display example of the liquid crystal display unit 5a will be described with reference to FIGS.

  First, FIG. 27 will be described. (1) in FIG. 27 is a display example of the liquid crystal display unit 5a when the effect state identifier is 1. FIG. 27 (2) is a liquid crystal display unit 5a when the effect state identifier is 2. Is a display example. 27 is a display example of the liquid crystal display unit 5a when the effect state identifier is 3, and FIG. 27 (4) is a liquid crystal display when the effect state identifier is 4. It is a display example of the part 5a. The performance state identifier is updated every time a predetermined time (2 seconds) elapses. That is, (1) to (4) in FIG. 27 show display examples updated every 2 seconds.

  In (1) of FIG. 27, an image in which the main character 300 faces upward is displayed. When two seconds have passed, an image in which the main character 300 is facing right is displayed as shown in (2) of FIG. When 2 seconds have passed, an image in which the main character 300 is facing left is displayed as shown in (3) of FIG. Then, when 2 seconds elapse, an image in which the main character 300 faces downward is displayed as shown in (4) of FIG.

  Here, the direction of the hero character 300 corresponds to the effect state identifier, and the effect state identifier roughly determines the contents of the effect. Then, the effect state identifier is determined by transmitting a game start command (by operating the start lever 6) (step S122 in FIG. 22). Therefore, the player can roughly select the contents of the effect by operating the start lever 6 when the direction of the main character 300 displayed on the liquid crystal display unit 5a is an arbitrary direction.

  Next, FIG. 28 will be described. An effect state identifier is determined based on the orientation of the main character displayed on the liquid crystal display unit 5a when the player operates the start lever 6, and a specific effect is determined based on the effect state identifier and the internal winning combination. The content (production number) is determined. (1) of FIG. 28 is a display example of the liquid crystal display unit 5a when the production state identifier is 1, the internal winning combination is BB1, and the production number is 1-3 (fireworks production). ) Is a display example of the liquid crystal display unit 5a when the effect state identifier is 4, the internal winning combination is watermelon, and the effect number is 4-2 (mole effect).

  Referring to (1) of FIG. 28, a firework 310 in the shape of “BONUS” is launched. Referring to (2) of FIG. 28, an image in which the mole character 320 has “watermelon” is displayed. For the player, the internal winning combination can be grasped based on the fireworks 310 and the “watermelon” possessed by the mole character 320.

  Here, referring to FIG. 13, the fireworks effect is performed when the effect state identifier is 1 (not performed when the effect state identifier is other than 1), and the mole effect is performed when the effect state identifier is 4. Performed (not performed when the production state identifier is other than 4). The effect state identifier is determined based on the timing at which the player operates the start lever 6. Therefore, the player can be involved to some extent with the effect performed by the effect means. As a result, the player can select an effect desired by the player, and the player's willingness to play can be enhanced.

  As mentioned above, although the Example was described, this invention is not limited to this.

  In the embodiment, the presentation state identifier is determined by operating the start lever 6 (by transmitting a game start command), but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the presentation state identifier may be determined by operating the stop buttons 7L, 7C, and 7R (by transmitting a stop command).

  Further, in the embodiment, the effect state counter is updated every 2 seconds, and the contents of the effect are determined based on the effect state identifier corresponding to the effect state counter at the time when the player operates the start lever 6. However, it is not limited to this. For example, instead of being automatically updated every 2 seconds, the player may select an effect state identifier and then determine the position by operating the start lever 6. That is, a selection unit for selecting the direction of the main character displayed on the liquid crystal display unit 5a is provided, and the player operates the selection unit to select the direction of the main character (effect state identifier). Thereafter, the player May operate the start lever 6 to determine the selected performance state identifier.

  In the embodiment, an internal lottery table is provided in which the numerical range corresponding to the winning combination is a continuous value. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, you may make it provide the internal lottery table which shall contain the several value which does not continue the numerical value range corresponding to a combination.

  Further, in the embodiment, the gaming machine 1 is set to have the first type special accessory (RB) and the accessory continuous operation device for continuously operating the first type special accessory. It is also possible to provide a special accessory and a special accessory continuous actuating device for continuously operating the second type special accessory. “Type 2 special combination” is a combination that activates the condition device related to winning regardless of the result of the internal lottery. It operates when determined in advance, and the result of one game is obtained. The one that ends the operation when it is The so-called challenge game (CG) and / or single challenge game (SCG) can be mentioned as the second type special combination. Moreover, what is called a challenge bonus (CB) can be mentioned in the accessory continuous operation apparatus which operates a 2nd type special accessory continuously.

  In addition to the gaming machine 1 as in the present embodiment, the present invention can also be applied to other gaming machines such as pachilot. Furthermore, the present invention is also applied to a game program in which the above-described operation on the gaming machine 1 is executed in a simulated manner for a home game machine or a portable terminal (for a mobile phone, a portable game machine, etc.). Can run the game. In that case, a DVD-ROM, CD-ROM, FD (flexible disk), or any other recording medium can be used as a recording medium for recording the game program.

The perspective view which shows the external appearance of a gaming machine. The figure which shows the example of the pattern arranged on the reel. The block diagram which shows the structure of an electric circuit. The figure which shows the structure of a subcontrol circuit. The figure which shows an internal lottery table determination table. The figure which shows an internal lottery table. The figure which shows an internal winning combination determination table. The figure which shows a symbol combination table. The figure which shows a table at the time of a bonus action | operation. The figure which shows various storage areas. The figure which shows a jump table. The figure which shows an effect state determination table. The figure which shows an effect determination table. The main flowchart of a main control circuit. The flowchart following FIG. The flowchart which shows a bonus operation | movement monitoring process. The flowchart which shows an internal lottery process. The flowchart which shows a bonus completion | finish check process. The flowchart which shows a bonus action check process. The flowchart which shows the reset interruption process of a subcontrol circuit. The flowchart which shows the command input process of a subcontrol circuit. The flowchart which shows the game start command process of a subcontrol circuit. The flowchart which shows the production | presentation state determination process of a subcontrol circuit. The flowchart which shows the image control process of a subcontrol circuit. The flowchart which shows the image control IC / int process of a sub control circuit. The flowchart which shows 2ms interruption processing. The figure which shows the example of a display in a liquid crystal display part. The figure which shows the example of a display in a liquid crystal display part.

Explanation of symbols

1 gaming machine 3L, 3C, 3R reel 6 start lever 7L, 7C, 7R stop button 30 microcomputer 31 CPU
32 ROM
33 RAM
71 Main control circuit 72 Sub control circuit

Claims (3)

A symbol display means having a plurality of display units capable of variably displaying and stopping and displaying a plurality of types of symbols;
A winning combination determining means for determining a winning combination from a plurality of predetermined combinations;
A start control means for starting a variable display of symbols by the symbol display means;
Based on the winning combination determined by the winning combination determining means, stop control means for stopping the change display of the symbol,
Operation means for the player to operate;
Directing means for performing,
Production control means for controlling the production means;
An effect state determining means for determining an effect state for determining an effect performed by the effect means by operating the operation means,
An effect determining means for determining an effect performed by the effect means based on the effect state determined by the effect state determining means and the winning combination determined by the winning combination determining means,
With
The gaming machine characterized in that the effect control means controls the effect means to perform the effect determined by the effect determining means. The gaming machine according to claim 1,
The game machine according to claim 1, wherein the operation means is a start operation means for a player to operate to start variable display by the symbol display means. The gaming machine according to claim 1,
The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the operating means is a stop operating means for a player to operate in order to stop the variable display by the symbol display means.

Images