JP2009285267A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine capable of changing control contents in a main CPU corresponding to control contents in a sub CPU, in the game machine which is provided with the main CPU for determining a winning and the sub CPU for executing various performances, and for which the transmission direction of information is limited to one direction from the main CPU to the sub CPU. <P>SOLUTION: In the main CPU (31) of a Pachinko slot machine (1) determines whether or not to allow the execution of locking, and when allowing it, determines one stop operation order from two or more of stop operation orders. Then, when the determined one stop operation order and an actual stop operation order match, the main CPU (31) invalidates the operation of an operation part such as a start lever (6) until prescribed time elapses after the stop of the rotation of reels (3L, 3C and 3R). At that time, in the sub CPU (81), a video image urging the stop operation by the one stop operation order determined in the main CPU (31) is displayed on a display screen (5a) before the stop operation by a player. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2010,JPO&INPIT

Description

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

  Conventionally, it is detected that a plurality of reels having a plurality of symbols arranged on each surface, a game medal, a coin, etc. (hereinafter referred to as a “medal, etc.”) and a start lever is operated by a player, A start switch that requests the start of rotation of a plurality of reels and a stop button provided corresponding to each of the plurality of reels are detected by the player, and the stop of rotation of the corresponding reel is requested. A stop switch that outputs a signal, a stepping motor that is provided corresponding to each of the plurality of reels, and that transmits each driving force to each reel, and a stepping motor based on the signals output by the start switch and the stop switch A reel control unit that controls the operation of each reel and rotates and stops each reel, and the start lever is operated. Is detected, the lottery is performed based on the random number value, and the reel rotation is stopped based on the result of the lottery (hereinafter referred to as “internal winning combination”) and the timing at which the stop button is detected. A game machine called pachislot is known.

Such a gaming machine is known to include a main control means for making a winning determination and a sub control means for executing various effects based on control signals from the main control means ( For example, see Patent Document 1). According to this gaming machine, the information transmission direction is limited to one direction from the main control means to the sub-control means. Inconveniences such as malfunction of the means can be prevented. In addition, if security for the main control means is increased, malfunctions such as winning determination can be avoided, so that a game that prevents the main control means from malfunctioning compared to the case where security measures are required for both the main control means and the sub-control means. The machine can be provided at low cost.
JP 2002-224283 A

  However, in such a gaming machine, the content of the effect in the sub-control means is determined based on the information such as the internal winning combination determined in the main control means, and the sub-control means in accordance with the control content in the main control means Although it is possible to change the control contents, conversely, the control contents in the main control means cannot be changed in accordance with the control contents in the sub-control means. Therefore, there is a need to provide a gaming machine with enhanced interest by making it possible to change the control contents in the main control means according to the control contents in the sub-control means, but it is equivalent to conventional gaming machines In order to maintain security, it is necessary to limit the information transmission direction to one direction from the main control means to the sub-control means.

  The present invention comprises main control means for making a winning determination, and sub-control means for executing various effects based on control signals from the main control means, and the information transmission direction is changed to the main control means. An object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine capable of changing the control content of the main control means in accordance with the control content of the sub control means in a game machine limited to one direction from the sub-control means.

  The present invention provides the following gaming machines.

  (1) Operation detection means (for example, stop buttons 7L, 7C, 7R described later) for detecting an operation by the player, and main control means (for example, control for a game based on detection of an operation by the operation detection means) , A main CPU 31 to be described later), a sub-control unit (for example, a sub-CPU 81 to be described later) for performing control based on the control by the main control unit, and a one-way from the main control unit to the sub-control unit. Information transmission means (for example, a command, which will be described later), and the main control means determines whether to allow execution of specific control (for example, a lock, which will be described later). Execution of the specific control is permitted by means (for example, a main CPU 31 that performs lock lottery processing described later) and the specific control determination means The specific control execution means for executing the specific control based on whether or not a specific operation has been performed on the operation detection means (for example, when a lock flag described later is on, A main CPU 31 that continues to rotate reels 3L, 3C, and 3R, which will be described later even when the stop buttons 7L, 7C, and 7R are operated, and the sub-control unit is configured to perform the specific control by the specific control determination unit. When it is determined that the execution of the operation is permitted, a specific operation notification means for notifying the player of the specific operation (for example, a sub CPU 81 for displaying a video for informing the stop operation order on the display screen 5a) is provided. A gaming machine characterized by

  According to the gaming machine described in (1), the main control means determines whether or not to allow execution of specific control, and if execution of the specific control is permitted, When an operation is performed, specific control is executed. Here, when the execution of the specific control is permitted, the sub-control means uses the specific operation notification means to perform the specific operation before the player operates the operation detection means. Encourage people. As a result, by satisfying the restriction that information is transmitted in one direction from the main control means to the sub control means, the security equivalent to that of the conventional gaming machine is maintained and the control contents of the sub control means are determined. A gaming machine capable of changing the control content of the main control means can be provided.

  (2) In the gaming machine described in (1), a symbol display means (for example, a reel 3L, which will be described later) having a display unit (for example, display windows 21L, 21C, 21R which will be described later) that displays a plurality of types of symbols in a plurality of rows. 3C, 3R, display windows 21L, 21C, 21R, etc. described later) and a plurality of stop operation means (for example, stop buttons 7L, 7C described later) provided corresponding to each of the plurality of rows and operable by the player. , 7R, etc.), and the operation detection means is provided corresponding to each of the plurality of stop operation means, and a stop operation detection means (for example, described later) that detects an operation of the stop operation means by a player Stop switch 7S, etc.), and the main control means determines a plurality of predetermined numbers according to a game start command signal (for example, a start switch 6S described later) for instructing the start of a unit game. An internal lottery means for determining at least one winning combination as a winning combination (for example, a main CPU 31 that performs an internal lottery process described later) and a variable display of symbols in the plurality of columns are started in response to the game start command signal The operation of the stop operation means is detected by a start control means (for example, a motor drive circuit 39 described later, stepping motors 49L, 49C, 49R described later, a main control circuit 71 described later) and the stop operation detection means. And a stop control means (for example, a main CPU 31 for performing a reel stop control process to be described later) for stopping the variable display of symbols in the row corresponding to the operated stop operation means. The control is carried out after satisfying a predetermined start condition (for example, the reels 3L, 3C, The progress of the game is stopped until the predetermined time elapses after the rotation of 3R stops (for example, the operation of the operation unit related to the progress of the game such as the start lever 6 and the stop button 7 is invalidated). The main control means further includes order determination means for determining the predetermined order in accordance with the game start command signal (for example, a main CPU 31 that performs lock lottery processing described later), and the specific control The execution means determines whether or not a specific operation has been performed on the operation detection means based on whether or not the order in which the stop operation means is operated matches a predetermined order determined by the order determination means. The specific control is executed based on the determination result, and the specific operation notifying unit is determined to allow the specific control to be executed by the specific control determining unit. , In response to said game start command signal, the gaming machine, characterized in that for informing the player of the predetermined order determined by the order determining unit as the specific operation.

  (2) According to the gaming machine described in (2), in the main control means, when the operation order of the stop operation means is a predetermined order, the game is performed until a predetermined time elapses after a predetermined start condition is satisfied. Decide whether to allow execution for stopping progress. Then, if permitted, the player operates the stop operation means until the predetermined time has elapsed after the stop control means stops the variable display of symbols on the condition that the stop operation means is operated in a predetermined order. Disable the operation of possible operating means.

  Here, when permitted by the main control means, the sub-control means operates the stop operation means in a predetermined order using the specific operation notification means before the player operates the operation detection means. Encourage the player to As a result, by satisfying the restriction that information is transmitted in one direction from the main control means to the sub control means, the security equivalent to that of the conventional gaming machine is maintained and the control contents of the sub control means are determined. A gaming machine capable of changing the control content of the main control means can be provided.

  (3) In the gaming machine according to (2), the sub-control unit is configured to execute the unit game a predetermined number of times on condition that the specific control is executed by the specific control execution unit. A gaming machine comprising: a winning combination notifying means for notifying the winning combination determined by the internal lottery means (for example, a sub CPU 81 for displaying a video notifying the type of the internal winning combination on the display screen 5a).

  According to the gaming machine described in (3), it is possible to change the control content in the main control means according to the control content in the sub-control means while maintaining the same security as the conventional gaming machine, and then Depending on the player's stop operation, the type of winning combination determined by the internal lottery means can be grasped. Therefore, it is possible to provide a gaming machine that is even more interesting while maintaining the same security as that of a conventional gaming machine.

  According to the gaming machine of the present invention, there is provided a gaming machine capable of changing the control content in the main control means in accordance with the control content in the sub-control means while maintaining the same security as the conventional gaming machine. it can.

[Functional flow of pachislot]
Embodiments according to the gaming machine of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. First, with reference to FIG. 1, the functional flow of the gaming machine (hereinafter, pachislot) 1 in the present embodiment will be described.

  When a medal is inserted by the player and the start lever 6 is operated, one value (hereinafter referred to as a random value) is extracted from random numbers in a predetermined numerical range (for example, 0 to 65535).

  The internal lottery means (main CPU 31 described later) performs lottery based on the extracted random number value and determines an internal winning combination. By determining the internal winning combination, a combination of symbols that permits display along a winning determination line described later is determined. The types of symbol combinations include those related to “winning” in which merits such as paying out medals, re-games, bonuses, etc. are given to players, and other so-called “loses”. Is provided.

  Subsequently, after the plurality of reels 3L, 3C, 3R are rotated, when the player presses the stop buttons 7L, 7C, 7R, reel stop control means (a motor drive circuit 39 described later, a stepping described later) The motors 49L, 49C, and 49R perform control to stop the rotation of the corresponding reel based on the internal winning combination and the timing when the stop button is pressed.

  Here, in the pachi-slot 1, basically, control for stopping the rotation of the corresponding reel is performed within a specified time (190 msec) from when the stop button is pressed. In the present embodiment, the number of symbols that move with the rotation of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R within the specified time is referred to as “the number of sliding symbols”, and the maximum number is defined as four symbols.

  The reel stop control means displays the symbol combination as much as possible along the winning determination line using the specified time when an internal winning combination permitting display of the symbol combination related to winning is determined. Then, the rotation of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R is stopped. On the other hand, combinations of symbols that are not permitted to be displayed by the internal winning combination are displayed on the reels 3L, 3C, 3R so that they are not displayed along the winning determination line using the specified time. Stop rotation.

  In the present embodiment, the reel stop operation (stop button operation) performed when all the reels are rotating is the “first stop operation” and the stop operation performed after the “first stop operation”. The stop operation performed after “second stop operation” and “second stop operation” is referred to as “third stop operation”.

  When the rotation of the plurality of reels 3L, 3C, 3R is all stopped, the winning determination means (main CPU 31 described later) determines whether or not the combination of symbols displayed along the winning determination line is related to winning. Judgment is made. When it is determined that the prize is related to a prize, a bonus such as a medal payout is given to the player. A series of flows as described above is performed as one game in the pachislot 1.

  Further, in the pachislot 1, the video display performed by the liquid crystal display device 5, the light output performed by the lamp 14, the sound output performed by the speakers 9L and 9R, or a combination thereof is used in the above-described series of flows. Various productions are performed.

  When the start lever 6 is operated by the player, an effect random number value (hereinafter referred to as effect random number value) is extracted separately from the random number value used for determining the internal winning combination. When the effect random number is extracted, the effect content determining means (sub-CPU 81 described later) determines, by lottery, what is to be executed this time among a plurality of types of effect contents associated with the internal winning combination.

  When the effect content is determined, the effect execution means (the liquid crystal display device 5 described later, the speakers 9L and 9R described later, and the lamp 14 described later), when the reels 3L, 3C and 3R start to rotate, each reel 3L. , 3C, 3R, the execution of the performance is advanced in conjunction with each opportunity, such as when the determination of the presence or absence of a prize is made. As described above, in the pachislot 1, the player has an opportunity to know or predict the determined internal winning combination (in other words, the combination of symbols to be aimed at) by executing the production contents associated with the internal winning combination. It is provided and the player's interest is improved.

[Pachislot structure]
The functional flow of the pachislot 1 has been described above. Next, the structure of the pachislot machine 1 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS.

<External structure of pachislot>
FIG. 2 shows an external structure of the pachi-slot 1 in the present embodiment.

(Reel and display window)
The pachi-slot 1 includes a cabinet 1a that houses reels 3L, 3C, 3R, a circuit board, and the like, and a front door 2 that is attached to the cabinet 1a so as to be openable and closable. Inside the cabinet 1a, three reels 3L, 3C, 3R are provided side by side. Each of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R is configured by attaching a belt-like sheet in which a plurality of symbols (for example, 21 pieces) are continuously arranged along the rotation direction to the peripheral surface of a cylindrical frame.

  A liquid crystal display device 5 is provided at the center of the front door 2. The liquid crystal display device 5 includes a display screen 5a including display windows 21L, 21C, and 21R, and is provided so as to be positioned on the near side superimposed on the three reels 3L, 3C, and 3R when viewed from the front. The display windows 21L, 21C, and 21R are provided corresponding to the three reels 3L, 3C, and 3R, respectively, and have a configuration capable of transmitting through the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R provided behind them. ing.

  In other words, the display windows 21L, 21C, and 21R serve as display windows, and the player can visually recognize the rotation and stop operation of the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R provided behind the display windows. . In the present embodiment, video is displayed using the entire display screen 5a including the display windows 21L, 21C, and 21R, and an effect is executed.

  The symbol display areas (hereinafter referred to as display windows) 21L, 21C, 21R have a plurality of types arranged on the surfaces of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R when the rotation of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R provided behind them is stopped. Among the symbols, one symbol (three in total) is displayed in each of the upper, middle, and lower regions within the frame. In addition, a target for determining whether or not to win a pseudo line formed by combining any one of predetermined areas among the three areas of the upper, middle, and lower stages of the display windows 21L, 21C, and 21R. Is defined as a line (winning determination line).

  In the present embodiment, a top line 8b formed by combining the upper stages of the display windows 21L, 21C, 21R, a center line 8c formed by combining the middle stages of the display windows 21L, 21C, 21R, and the display windows 21L, 21C, 21R. The bottom line 8d formed by combining the lower stage, the upper stage of the left display window 21L, the middle stage of the middle display window 21C, and the lower stage of the right display window 21R, the cross-down line 8e, the lower stage of the left display window 21L, and the middle display window 21C Five cross-up lines 8a formed by combining the middle stage and the upper stage of the right display window 21R are provided as winning determination lines.

(Operating device)
The front door 2 is provided with various devices to be operated by the player. The medal slot 10 is provided for receiving a medal dropped from the outside by the player. The medals received in the medal slot 10 are inserted into one game with a predetermined number (for example, three) as an upper limit, and the amount exceeding the predetermined number can be deposited in the pachislot 1 ( So-called credit function).

  The bet button 11 is provided to determine the number of coins to be inserted into one game from medals deposited inside the pachislot 1. The checkout button 12 is provided to pull out medals deposited inside the pachislot 1 to the outside.

  The start lever 6 is provided to start the rotation of all the reels 3L, 3C, 3R. The stop buttons 7L, 7C, 7R are associated with the three reels 3L, 3C, 3R, respectively, and are provided to stop the rotation of the corresponding reels 3L, 3C, 3R.

(Other equipment)
The 7-segment display 13 is made up of 7-segment LEDs. The number of medals inserted in the current game (hereinafter referred to as the inserted number), the number of medals to be paid out to the player as a privilege (hereinafter referred to as the number of payouts), pachislot 1 Information such as the number of medals deposited in the inside (hereinafter referred to as the number of credits) is digitally displayed to the player.

  The lamp (LED or the like) 14 outputs light in a turn-on / off pattern according to the content of the effect. The speakers 9L and 9R output sound such as sound effects and music according to the contents of the production. The medal payout opening 15 guides medals discharged by driving a medal payout device 40 (see FIG. 3 described later) to the outside. The medals discharged from the medal payout opening 15 are stored in the medal tray 16.

<Internal structure of pachislot>
FIG. 3 shows the internal structure of the pachi-slot 1 in the present embodiment. The state where the front door 2 is opened and the structure on the back surface side of the front door 2 and the structure inside the cabinet 1a appear is shown.

  A substrate (hereinafter referred to as a main substrate 71A) on which a main control circuit 71 (see FIG. 4 described later) is formed is provided above the cabinet 1a. The main control circuit 71 is a circuit that controls the main flow of the game in the pachislot 1 such as determination of an internal winning combination, rotation and stop of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R, and determination of the presence or absence of winning. A specific configuration of the main control circuit 71 will be described later.

  Three reels 3L, 3C, 3R are provided in the center of the cabinet 1a. Stepping motors 49L, 49C, and 49R (see FIG. 4 described later) are connected to the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R through gears having a predetermined reduction ratio.

  On the left side of the three reels 3L, 3C, 3R, a substrate (hereinafter referred to as sub-substrate 72A) on which a sub-control circuit 72 (see FIG. 4 described later) is formed is provided. The sub-control circuit 72 is a circuit that controls the execution of effects by displaying images. A specific configuration of the sub control circuit 72 will be described later.

  Below the inside of the cabinet 1a, a medal payout device (hereinafter referred to as a hopper) 40 having a structure capable of storing a large amount of medals and discharging them one by one is provided. On the left side of the hopper 40, a power supply device 43 for supplying necessary power to each device included in the pachislot 1 is provided.

  A selector 42 is provided at the center of the back side of the front door 2 and below the display windows 21L, 21C, 21R. The selector 42 is a device for selecting whether or not a medal is appropriate in material, shape, and the like, and guides an appropriate medal received in the medal insertion slot 10 to the hopper 40. Note that a medal sensor 42S (see FIG. 4 to be described later) is provided on the path through which the medal passes in the selector 42, and detects that an appropriate medal has passed.

[Circuit configuration of pachislot]
This completes the description of the structure of the pachislot 1. Next, with reference to FIG.4 and FIG.5, the structure of the circuit with which the pachislot 1 in this Embodiment is provided is demonstrated. The pachi-slot 1 in the present embodiment includes a main control circuit 71, a sub-control circuit 72, and peripheral devices (actuators) that are electrically connected thereto.

<Main control circuit>
FIG. 4 shows a configuration of the main control circuit 71 of the pachi-slot 1 in the present embodiment.

(Microcomputer)
The main control circuit 71 includes a microcomputer 30 installed on a circuit board as a main component. The microcomputer 30 includes a CPU (hereinafter, main CPU) 31, a ROM (hereinafter, main ROM) 32, and a RAM (hereinafter, main RAM) 33.

  The main ROM 32 has a data table (see FIGS. 6 to 14 to be described later) such as a control program (see FIGS. 21 to 28 to be described later) executed by the main CPU 31 and an internal lottery table (see FIGS. 9 and 10 to be described later). ), Data for transmitting various control commands (commands) to the sub control circuit 72 are stored. The main RAM 33 is provided with a storage area (see FIGS. 15 to 17 described later) for storing various data such as an internal winning combination determined by execution of the control program.

(Random number generator etc.)
The main CPU 31 is connected to a clock pulse generation circuit 34, a frequency divider 35, a random number generator 36, and a sampling circuit 37. The clock pulse generation circuit 34 and the frequency divider 35 generate clock pulses. The main CPU 31 executes a control program based on the generated clock pulse. The random number generator 36 generates a random number within a predetermined range (for example, 0 to 65535). The sampling circuit 37 extracts one value from the generated random numbers.

(Switch etc.)
A switch or the like is connected to the input port of the microcomputer 30. The main CPU 31 receives input from a switch or the like and controls the operation of peripheral devices such as stepping motors 49L, 49C, and 49R. The stop switch 7S detects that each of the three stop buttons 7L, 7C, 7R has been pressed (stop operation) by the player. The start switch 6S detects that the start lever 6 has been operated by the player (start operation).

  The medal sensor 42S detects that the medal received in the medal slot 10 has passed through the selector 42 described above. The bet switch 11S detects that the bet button 11 has been pressed by the player. Further, the settlement switch 12S detects that the settlement button 12 has been pressed by the player.

(Peripheral devices and circuits)
Peripheral devices whose operations are controlled by the microcomputer 30 include stepping motors 49L, 49C, 49R, a 7-segment display 13 and a hopper 40. A circuit for controlling the operation of each peripheral device is connected to the output port of the microcomputer 30.

  The motor drive circuit 39 controls driving of stepping motors 49L, 49C, 49R provided corresponding to the reels 3L, 3C, 3R. The reel position detection circuit 50 detects a reel index indicating that the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R have made one rotation by an optical sensor having a light emitting portion and a light receiving portion in accordance with each reel 3L, 3C, and 3R.

  The stepping motors 49L, 49C, and 49R have a configuration in which the momentum is proportional to the number of output pulses and the rotation axis can be stopped at a specified angle. The driving force of the stepping motors 49L, 49C, 49R is transmitted to the reels 3L, 3C, 3R via a gear having a predetermined reduction ratio. Each time one pulse is output to the stepping motors 49L, 49C, 49R, the reels 3L, 3C, 3R rotate at a constant angle.

  The main CPU 31 counts the number of times the pulses are output to the stepping motors 49L, 49C, 49R after detecting the reel index, thereby rotating the rotation angles of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R (mainly the reels 3L, 3C, The number of symbols 3R has rotated) is managed, and the positions of the symbols arranged on the surfaces of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R are managed.

  The display unit drive circuit 48 controls the operation of the 7-segment display 13. The hopper drive circuit 41 controls the operation of the hopper 40. The payout completion signal circuit 51 manages the detection of medals performed by the medal detection unit 40S provided in the hopper 40, and checks whether or not the medals discharged from the hopper 40 have reached the payout number.

<Sub control circuit>
FIG. 5 shows a configuration of the sub-control circuit 72 of the pachislot 1 in the present embodiment.

  The sub control circuit 72 is electrically connected to the main control circuit 71 and performs processing such as determination and execution of effect contents based on a command transmitted from the main control circuit 71. The sub control circuit 72 basically includes a CPU (hereinafter referred to as sub CPU) 81, a ROM (hereinafter referred to as sub ROM) 82, a RAM (hereinafter referred to as sub RAM) 83, a rendering processor 84, a drawing RAM 85, a driver 87, a DSP (DSP). A digital signal processor) 88, an audio RAM 89, an A / D converter 90, and an amplifier 91.

  The sub CPU 81 controls the output of video, sound, and light in accordance with a control program (see FIGS. 29 to 33 described later) stored in the sub ROM 82 in accordance with a command transmitted from the main control circuit 71. The sub-RAM 83 is provided with a storage area for registering the determined contents and effects data, and a storage area for storing various data such as an internal winning combination transmitted from the main control circuit 71. The sub ROM 82 basically includes a program storage area and a data storage area.

  A control program executed by the sub CPU 81 is stored in the program storage area. For example, in the control program, a main board communication task (see FIG. 29 described later) for controlling communication with the main control circuit 71 and a random number for production are extracted, and the contents of production (production data) are determined and registered. An effect registration task (see FIG. 30 to be described later), a drawing control task for controlling display of an image by the liquid crystal display device 5 based on the determined effect content, a lamp control task for controlling the output of light by the lamp 14, An audio control task for controlling sound output from the speakers 9L and 9R is included.

  The data storage area stores a storage area for storing various data tables, a storage area for storing effect data constituting each effect content, a storage area for storing animation data related to creation of video, and a sound data related to BGM and sound effects. A storage area, a storage area for storing lamp data related to the light on / off pattern, and the like are included.

  The sub-control circuit 72 is connected to the liquid crystal display device 5, the speakers 9L and 9R, and the lamp 14 as peripheral devices whose operation is controlled.

  The sub CPU 81, the rendering processor 84, the drawing RAM 85 (including the frame buffer 86), and the driver 87 create a video according to the animation data designated by the contents of the presentation, and display the created video on the liquid crystal display device 5.

  Further, the sub CPU 81, DSP 88, audio RAM 89, A / D converter 90, and amplifier 91 output sounds such as BGM from the speakers 9L and 9R according to the sound data specified by the production contents. Further, the sub CPU 81 turns on and off the lamp 14 according to the lamp data designated by the contents of the effect.

[Configuration of data table stored in main ROM]
This completes the description of the circuit configuration of the pachislot machine 1. Next, the configuration of various data tables stored in the main ROM 32 will be described with reference to FIGS.

[Design arrangement table]
The symbol arrangement table will be described with reference to FIG. The symbol arrangement table defines the position of each symbol in the rotation direction of each reel 3L, 3C, 3R and data (hereinafter, symbol code) specifying the type of symbol arranged at each position.

  In the symbol arrangement table, when the reel index is detected, the symbol positions existing in the middle stages of the display windows 21L, 21C, and 21R are set to “0”, and the symbols are arranged in the order of advance in the rotation direction of the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R. “0” to “20” are respectively assigned to the positions. Therefore, by managing how many symbols have been rotated since the reel index was detected, by referring to the symbol arrangement table, the positions of symbols existing mainly in the middle stages of the display windows 21L, 21C, and 21R and It is possible to always manage the type of the symbol.

[Design combination table]
The symbol combination table will be described with reference to FIG. In the present embodiment, when the symbol combination displayed by the reels 3L, 3C, 3R along the winning determination line matches the symbol combination defined by the symbol combination table, it is determined to be a prize, Benefits such as paying out medals, re-game operations, and bonus game operations are given to the player.

  The symbol combination table defines a symbol combination, a display combination, and a payout number that are predetermined according to the type of privilege. The display combination is data for identifying a combination of symbols displayed along the winning determination line.

  The display combination is represented as 1-byte data in which a unique symbol combination is assigned to each bit. For example, when the symbol “bell” of each reel 3L, 3C, 3R is displayed along the winning determination line, “bell (00001000)” is determined as the display combination.

  Further, when a numerical value of 1 or more is determined as the payout number, medals are paid out. In the present embodiment, when a cherry (red cherry, blue cherry, green cherry), bell or watermelon is determined as a display combination, medals are paid out. In the following, the generic name for cherry, bell, and watermelon is referred to as “small role”. The number of payouts is defined according to the number of inserted sheets. Basically, a larger number of paid-out sheets is determined when the number of inserted sheets is small.

  In addition, when replay is determined as the display combination, replaying is performed. When BB is determined as the display combination, the bonus is activated. If the symbol combination displayed along the winning determination line does not match any of the symbol combinations defined by the symbol combination table, it is a so-called “losing”.

[Bonus operating table]
With reference to FIG. 8, the bonus operation time table will be described. The bonus operation time table defines data to be stored in various storage areas provided in the main RAM 33 when the bonus operation is performed.

  The in-operation flag is data for identifying the type of bonus that is activated. In the present embodiment, BB (a combination continuous action device related to a first type special combination) and RB (a first type special combination) are provided as bonus types. The operation of RB is continuously performed while the operation of BB is performed.

  The operation of BB is ended when the medals are paid out to reach the prescribed number (346 in the present embodiment). The RB is activated when a game that reaches the specified number of times (8 times in the present embodiment) is performed, when there is a winning that reaches the specified number of times (8 times in the present embodiment), or BB The operation ends when either of the operations ends. The bonus end number counter, the possible game number counter, and the possible winning number counter are data for managing whether or not the specified number of times or the specified number of times as a trigger end timing of the bonus has been reached.

  More specifically, numerical values defined by the bonus operation time table are stored in the respective counters, and the subtraction is performed through the operation of the bonus. As a result, the operation of the corresponding bonus is completed on condition that the value of each counter is updated to “0”.

[Internal lottery table]
The internal lottery table will be described with reference to FIGS. The internal lottery table defines a data pointer and a lottery value according to the winning number. The data pointer is data acquired as a result of lottery performed with reference to the internal lottery table, and is data for designating an internal winning combination defined by an internal winning combination determination table described later. The data pointer is provided with a small role / replay data pointer and a bonus data pointer.

  In the present embodiment, random numbers extracted from a predetermined numerical range “0 to 65535” are sequentially subtracted by lottery values corresponding to each winning number, and whether or not the result of the subtraction is negative ( An internal lottery is performed by determining whether or not a so-called “digit” has occurred.

  Therefore, the larger the numerical value defined as the lottery value, the higher the probability that the data (that is, the data pointer) to which it is assigned will be determined. The winning probability of each winning number can be represented by “the lottery value corresponding to each winning number / the number of all random numbers that may be extracted (65536)”.

  FIG. 9 shows an internal lottery table for a general gaming state. FIG. 10 shows an internal lottery table for RB operation. In the present embodiment, depending on the situation such as whether or not the bonus is activated, the type of internal winning combination and the winning probability that are determined are varied by using different types of internal lottery tables. , The expectation that the player holds is undulating.

[Internal winning combination determination table]
The internal winning combination determination table will be described with reference to FIGS. The internal winning combination determination table defines an internal winning combination in accordance with the data pointer. When the data pointer is determined, the internal winning combination is uniquely acquired.

  The internal winning combination is data for identifying a combination of symbols of each reel 3L, 3C, 3L that is permitted to be displayed along the winning determination line. Like the display combination, the internal winning combination is represented as 1-byte data in which a unique symbol combination is assigned to each bit. When the data pointer is “0”, the content of the internal winning combination is “lost”, which indicates that any display of symbol combinations defined by the symbol combination table described above is not permitted.

  FIG. 11 shows an internal winning combination determination table for a small combination / replay. The small winning combination / replay internal winning combination determination table defines an internal winning combination relating to the payout of medals or an internal winning combination relating to the operation of replay. FIG. 12 shows a bonus internal winning combination determination table. The bonus internal winning combination determination table defines internal winning combinations related to the operation of the bonus.

[Lock lottery table]
The lock lottery table will be described with reference to FIG. This table is referred to when the bonus is not activated, and includes information on lottery values for determining the lock number based on the internal winning combination. “Lock” means to stop the progress of a game until a predetermined time elapses after all the reels 3L, 3C, 3R are stopped. It is performed by invalidating the operation of the operation unit related to the progress of the game such as 7L, 7C, 7R.

  For example, when the lock number determined with reference to the lock lottery table is “1”, the stop order is “left-middle-right”. At this time, in accordance with the third stop operation, it is determined whether or not the order of operating the stop buttons 7L, 7C, and 7R is “left-middle-right”, and is determined to be “left-middle-right”. When the right reel 3R related to the third stop operation is stopped until a predetermined time elapses (more specifically, until the time determined with reference to the lock time determination table shown in FIG. 14 elapses). In the meantime, the operation of the operation unit such as the start lever 6 and the stop buttons 7L, 7C, 7R is invalidated.

[Lock time determination table]
The lock time determination table will be described with reference to FIG. This table is used to uniquely determine the lock time based on the lock number determined with reference to the lock lottery table. The “lock time” refers to the predetermined time, that is, the time for invalidating the operation of the operation unit such as the start lever 6 and the stop buttons 7L, 7C, and 7R.

  For example, when the lock number determined with reference to the lock lottery table is “1”, the lock time is “5000 ms” according to the lock time determination table. At this time, in accordance with the third stop operation, it is determined whether or not the order of operating the stop buttons 7L, 7C, and 7R is “left-middle-right”, and is determined to be “left-middle-right”. In this case, the operation of the operation unit such as the start lever 6 and the stop buttons 7L, 7C, and 7R is invalidated for 5000 ms after the right reel 3R related to the third stop operation is stopped.

[Configuration of storage area provided in main RAM]
This completes the description of the contents of the data table stored in the main ROM 32. Next, the configuration of various storage areas provided in the main RAM 33 will be described with reference to FIGS.

[Internal winning combination storage area]
The configuration of the internal winning combination storing area will be described with reference to FIG. The internal winning combination storing area stores the internal winning combination represented by the above-mentioned 1-byte data. When the bit is set to “1”, display of the corresponding symbol combination is permitted. When all bits are “0”, the content is lost.

  The main RAM 33 is provided with a display combination storage area in which the display combination is stored. The configuration of the display combination storing area is the same as the configuration of the internal winning combination storing area. When “1” is set in the bit, the corresponding symbol combination is displayed along the winning determination line.

[Coverage storage area]
With reference to FIG. 16, the structure of the carryover combination storage area will be described.

  As a result of the aforementioned lottery, when an internal winning combination relating to the operation of the bonus is determined, this is stored in the carryover combination storage area. The internal winning combination (hereinafter referred to as the carryover combination) related to the operation of the bonus stored in the carryover combination storage area is retained without being cleared until the corresponding symbol combination is displayed on the winning determination line. It has become. And while the carryover combination is stored in the carryover combination storage area, it is stored in the internal winning combination storage area regardless of the result of the lottery described above.

[Operation flag storage area]
The configuration of the operating flag storage area will be described with reference to FIG.

  The operating flag storage area stores an operating flag consisting of 1 byte. The operating flag has a unique bonus assigned to each bit. When “1” is set in the bit, the corresponding bonus is activated. The state when all bits are “0” is defined as a general gaming state.

[Configuration of data table stored in sub-ROM]
This completes the description of the configuration of the various storage areas provided in the main RAM 33. Next, the configuration of various data tables stored in the sub ROM 82 of the sub control circuit 72 will be described with reference to FIGS.

[Lock notification lottery table]
The lock notification lottery table will be described with reference to FIGS.

  FIG. 18 is a high-probability state lock notification lottery table. The “high probability state” refers to a notification state between the end of the bonus and 100 unit games. FIG. 19 is a low-probability state lock notification lottery table. The “low probability state” refers to a notification state excluding the “high probability state”. In the present embodiment, on the condition that the lock number determined by the main CPU 31 is “1” to “18”, the lock notification lottery table corresponding to the notification state is referred to, and the effect number is determined based on the lock number. .

  When the lock number is “1” to “3”, “1” may be determined as the production number. The production number “1” corresponds to the stop operation order of “left-middle-right”, and when “1” is selected as the production number, the display screen 5a stops in the order of “left-middle-right”. An image prompting to operate the buttons 7L, 7C, 7R is displayed.

  Similarly, when the lock numbers are “4” to “6”, “2” may be determined as the production number, and this production number “2” is the “left-right-middle” stop operation sequence. Corresponding to When the lock numbers are “7” to “9”, “3” may be determined as the production number, and this production number “3” corresponds to the “middle-left-right” stop operation sequence. .

  When the lock numbers are “10” to “12”, “4” may be determined as the production number, and this production number “4” corresponds to the stop operation sequence of “middle-right-left”. . When the lock numbers are “13” to “15”, “5” may be determined as the production number, and this production number “5” corresponds to the stop operation sequence of “right-left-middle”. .

  When the lock numbers are “16” to “18”, “6” may be determined as the production number, and this production number “4” corresponds to the stop operation sequence of “right-middle-left”. . Note that “0” may be determined as the production number regardless of the value of the lock number. When “0” is selected as the production number, the display screen 5a does not display a video prompting the user to operate in a specific stop operation order.

[AT period lottery table]
The AT period lottery table will be described with reference to FIG. This table is referred to when the stop buttons 7L, 7C, 7R are operated in the order as displayed on the display screen 5a, and includes information on lottery values for determining the AT period based on the lock number at that time. ing. “AT” is a so-called assist time, and in this embodiment, the operation order of the stop buttons 7L, 7C, and 7R for locking is notified. When the internal winning combination is red cherry, blue cherry, or green cherry, the type of internal winning combination is notified. The “AT period” is the number of unit games in which the assist time is performed.

  In this embodiment, when the lock number is “1, 4, 7, 10, 13, 16”, a relatively small AT period is easily selected, and the lock number is “2, 5, 8, 11, 14, 17”. ", It is easy to select a longer AT period. When the lock number is “3, 6, 9, 12, 15, 18”, a longer AT period is easily selected. According to the lock time determination table shown in FIG. 14, when the lock number is “1, 4, 7, 10, 13, 16”, the lock time is short (5000 ms), and the lock number is “2, 5, 8, The lock time becomes longer as “11, 14, 17”, “3, 6, 9, 12, 15, 18”. That is, there is a correspondence between the lock time and the AT period, and the player can estimate the actual AT period based on the length of the lock time.

[Program flow executed in pachislot]
This completes the description of the configuration of the various storage areas provided in the main RAM 33. Next, the contents of the program executed by the main CPU 31 of the main control circuit 71 will be described with reference to FIGS.

[Main flowchart by control of main CPU of main control circuit]
First, with reference to FIG. 21, the main flowchart by control of the main CPU31 is demonstrated. When power is turned on to the pachi-slot 1, first, the main CPU 31 performs an initialization process (S1). Next, the main CPU 31 clears the designated storage area in the main RAM 33 (S2). In this process, for example, data stored in a storage area that needs to be erased for each game, such as an internal winning combination storage area (see FIG. 15) or a display combination storage area (see FIG. 15), is cleared. .

  Next, the main CPU 31 performs a medal acceptance / start check process which will be described later with reference to FIG. 22 (S3). In this processing, input checks of the medal sensor 42S and the start switch 6S are performed.

  Next, the main CPU 31 extracts a random value and stores it in a random value storage area provided in the main RAM 33 (S4). Next, the main CPU 31 performs an internal lottery process which will be described later with reference to FIG. 23 (S5). In this process, the internal winning combination is determined by lottery based on a random value.

  Next, the main CPU 31 performs a lock lottery process which will be described later with reference to FIG. 24 (S6). In this process, the lock number is determined by lottery based on the internal winning combination. Next, the main CPU 31 transmits a start command to the sub-control circuit 72 (S7). The start command includes a parameter for specifying an internal winning combination.

  Next, the main CPU 31 requests the start of rotation of all the reels 3L, 3C, 3R (S8). When the start of rotation of all the reels 3L, 3C, 3R is requested, the stepping motors 49L, 49C, 49R are driven by an interrupt process (see FIG. 28 described later) executed at a constant cycle (1.1173 msec). Is controlled, and the reels 3L, 3C, 3R start to rotate.

  Next, the main CPU 31 performs a reel stop control process which will be described later with reference to FIG. 25 (S9). In this process, the input of the stop switch 7S is checked, and the rotation of the corresponding reel is stopped based on the timing when the stop button is pressed and the internal winning combination.

  Next, the main CPU 31 determines whether or not the lock flag is on (S10). The “lock flag” refers to information for identifying whether or not the operation of the operation unit such as the start lever 6 and the stop buttons 7L, 7C, and 7R is invalidated. When determining that the lock flag is on, the main CPU 31 performs the process of S10 again. The process of S10 continues until a predetermined time has elapsed and the lock flag is turned off.

  When determining that the lock flag is not on, the main CPU 31 searches for a combination of symbols displayed along the winning determination line, and determines a payout number and the like based on the result (S11). As a result of the search, when the symbol combination displayed along the winning determination line matches the symbol combination defined by the symbol combination table (see FIG. 7), the corresponding display combination and the number of payouts are determined. Next, the main CPU 31 transmits a display command to the sub-control circuit 72 (S12). The display command includes parameters that specify the display combination, the number of payouts, and the like.

  Next, the main CPU 31 performs medal payout processing (S13). In this process, the hopper 40 is driven and the number of credits is updated based on the determined payout number. Next, the main CPU 31 updates the bonus end number counter based on the payout number (S14). In this process, the numerical value determined as the payout number is subtracted from the bonus end number counter.

  Next, the main CPU 31 determines whether or not the bonus operating flag is on (S15). When determining that the bonus operating flag is on, the main CPU 31 performs a bonus end check process described later with reference to FIG. 27 (S16). In this process, it is checked whether or not to end the operation of the bonus with reference to various counters for managing the end timing of the bonus.

  The main CPU 31 performs a bonus operation check process described later with reference to FIG. 26 after S14 or when it is determined in S13 that the bonus operating flag is not on (S17). In this process, it is checked whether or not the bonus operation is started. When this process ends, the process proceeds to S2.

[Medal reception / start check processing]
Next, the medal acceptance / start check process will be described with reference to FIG. First, the main CPU 31 determines whether or not the automatic insertion number counter is 0 (S31). When it is determined that the automatic insertion number counter is 0, the medal passage permission is performed (S32). In this process, the solenoid of the selector 42 is driven, and the passage of medals in the selector 42 is prompted.

  When determining that the automatic insertion number counter is not 0, the main CPU 31 copies the automatic insertion number counter to the insertion number counter (S33). Next, the main CPU 31 clears the automatic insertion number counter (S34). S33 and S34 are processes for replaying.

  After S32 or S34, the main CPU 31 sets 3 as the maximum value of the insertion number counter (S35). Next, the main CPU 31 determines whether or not the bonus operating flag is on (S36). When determining that the bonus operating flag is on, the main CPU 31 changes the maximum value of the insertion number counter (S37). In this process, for example, the maximum value is changed to 2.

  The main CPU 31 determines whether or not the passage of medals has been detected after S37 or when it is determined in S36 that the bonus operating flag is not on (S38). When determining that the passage of medals has been detected, the main CPU 31 determines whether or not the inserted number counter has reached the maximum value (S39). When determining that the inserted number counter has not reached the maximum value, the main CPU 31 adds 1 to the inserted number counter (S40). Next, the main CPU 31 transmits a medal insertion command to the sub control circuit 72 (S41). The medal insertion command includes a parameter for specifying the number of inserted coins.

  When the main CPU 31 determines in S39 that the inserted number counter is the maximum value, the main CPU 31 adds 1 to the credit counter (S42). The main CPU 31 checks the bet switch 11S after S42, after S41, or when it is determined that the passage of medals is not detected in S38 (S43). In this process, a numerical value corresponding to the bet button 11 is added to the inserted number counter while being subtracted from the credit counter.

  Next, the main CPU 31 determines whether or not the insertion number counter has reached the maximum value (S44). When it is determined that the insertion number counter has not reached the maximum value, the process proceeds to S38, whereas when it is determined that the insertion number counter has reached the maximum value, it is determined whether or not the start switch 6S is on (S45). ).

  When determining that the start switch 6S is not on, the main CPU 31 proceeds to S38, whereas when determining that the start switch 6S is on, the main CPU 31 prohibits medal passage (S46). In this process, the solenoid of the selector 42 is not driven, and medals are expelled. When this process ends, the medal acceptance / start check process ends.

[Internal lottery processing]
Next, the internal lottery process will be described with reference to FIG. First, the main CPU 31 determines an internal lottery table (see FIGS. 9 and 10) and the number of lotteries (S61). The operating flag storage area (see FIG. 17) is referred to, and the internal lottery table and the number of lotteries are determined according to whether or not the bonus is activated. The number of lotteries indicates the number of times that a lottery value is subtracted and a determination is made as to whether a digit has occurred for each winning number defined by the internal lottery table.

  Next, the main CPU 31 obtains a random value stored in the random value storage area and sets it as a determination random value (S62). Next, the main CPU 31 sets 1 as the initial value of the winning number (S63).

  Next, the main CPU 31 refers to the internal lottery table and acquires a lottery value corresponding to the winning number (S64). Next, the main CPU 31 subtracts the lottery value from the determination random number value (S65). Next, the main CPU 31 determines whether or not a digit has been made (S66). When the main CPU 31 determines that the digit is not performed, the main CPU 31 subtracts 1 from the number of lotteries and adds 1 to the winning number (S67).

  Next, the main CPU 31 determines whether or not the number of lotteries is 0 (S68). When the main CPU 31 determines that the number of lotteries is not 0, the process proceeds to S64. On the other hand, when the number of lotteries is determined to be 0, the main CPU 31 sets 0 as the small role / replay data pointer and serves as the bonus data pointer. 0 is set (S69).

  When the main CPU 31 determines in S66 that a digit has been made, the main CPU 31 obtains a small role / replay data pointer and a bonus data pointer according to the current winning number (S70). After S70 or S69, the main CPU 31 refers to the small winning combination / replay internal winning combination determination table (see FIG. 11), and acquires the internal winning combination based on the small winning combination / replay data pointer (S71).

  Next, the main CPU 31 stores the acquired internal winning combination in the internal winning combination storing area (see FIG. 15) (S72). Next, the main CPU 31 determines whether or not the data stored in the carryover combination storage area (see FIG. 16) is 0 (S73). When the main CPU 31 determines that the data stored in the carryover combination storage area is 0, the main CPU 31 refers to the bonus internal winning combination determination table (see FIG. 12), and determines the internal winning combination based on the bonus data pointer. Is acquired (S74). Next, the main CPU 31 stores the acquired internal winning combination in the carryover combination storing area (S75).

  When the main CPU 31 determines that the data stored in the carryover combination storage area (see FIG. 16) is not 0 after S75 or in S73, the carryover combination storage area and the internal winning combination storage area (see FIG. 15). And the result is stored in the internal winning combination storing area (S76). That is, the internal winning combination relating to the bonus operation is carried over. When this process ends, the internal lottery process ends.

[Lock lottery processing]
Next, the lock lottery process will be described with reference to FIG. First, the main CPU 31 determines whether or not the RB operation flag is on (S81). The “RB operating flag” refers to information for identifying whether or not the RB is operating. When the flag is on, the RB is operating. When the RB is off, the RB is When not working. When it is determined that the RB operating flag is not on, the lock lottery table (see FIG. 13) is referred to, and the lock number is determined based on the internal winning combination. When this process ends or when it is determined that the RB operating flag is on, the lock lottery process is ended.

[Reel stop control process]
Next, the reel stop control process will be described with reference to FIG. First, the main CPU 31 determines whether or not a valid stop button has been pressed (S101). When the main CPU 31 determines that a valid stop button has not been pressed, it waits until it is pressed.

  When determining that a valid stop button has been pressed, the main CPU 31 invalidates the operation of the corresponding stop button (S102). The valid and invalid states of the stop buttons 7L, 7C, and 7R are managed in a predetermined storage area provided in the main RAM 33.

  Next, the main CPU 31 sets 5 as the number of checks (S103). In the present embodiment, since the maximum number of sliding symbols is “4”, when the stop button is pressed, including the symbol position in the middle of the corresponding display window, Up to the position is subject to check. That is, any of the five numerical values “0”, “1”, “2”, “3”, and “4” is determined as the number of sliding frames.

  Next, based on the internal winning combination, the main CPU 31 includes each position within the range of the number of checks including the position of the symbol in the middle of the corresponding display window (hereinafter referred to as the stop start position) when the stop button is pressed. Among the symbol positions, the symbol position with the highest priority is searched (S104). In this process, the position of the symbol that can display the combination of symbols permitted to be displayed by the internal winning combination along the winning determination line is determined as the position of the symbol with the highest priority.

  Next, the main CPU 31 determines the number of sliding symbols based on the search result (S105). The number of symbols from the stop start position to the symbol position with the highest priority is determined as the number of sliding symbols. Next, the main CPU 31 shifts to waiting for a scheduled stop position (S106). When a transition is made to waiting for the planned stop position, the driving of the stepping motors 49L, 49C, 49R is controlled by an interrupt process described later (see FIG. 28 described later), and the position of the symbol with the highest priority reaches the middle stage of the corresponding display window. The reels are stopped from rotating after waiting.

  Next, the main CPU 31 transmits a reel stop command to the sub-control circuit 72 (S107). The reel stop command includes a parameter for specifying the type of the stopped reel.

  Next, the main CPU 31 determines whether or not there is a stop button whose operation is valid (S108). That is, it is determined whether there is a reel that is still rotating. When the main CPU 31 determines that there is a stop button whose operation is valid, the main CPU 31 proceeds to S101.

  When determining that there is no valid stop button, the main CPU 31 determines the operation order of the stop buttons 7L, 7C, 7R performed by the player and the lock number determined with reference to the lock lottery table (FIG. 13). It is determined whether or not the stop order corresponding to is coincident (S109). When determining that they match, the main CPU 31 sets the lock flag to ON (S110).

  Next, the main CPU 31 determines the lock time with reference to the lock time determination table (FIG. 14), and sets the determined time in the timer (S111). Next, the main CPU 31 transmits a lock command to the sub control circuit 72 (S112). The lock command includes a parameter for specifying a lock number and the like. When this process ends, the reel stop control process ends. Also, when it is determined that the operation order of the stop buttons 7L, 7C, and 7R by the player does not match the stop order corresponding to the predetermined lock number (even when NO is determined in S109), the reel stop control is performed. The process ends.

[Bonus activation check process]
Next, the bonus operation check process will be described with reference to FIG. First, the main CPU 31 determines whether or not the display combination is BB (S121). When the main CPU 31 determines that the display combination is BB, the main CPU 31 refers to the bonus operation time table (see FIG. 8) and performs the BB operation processing (S122). In this process, the BB operating flag is turned on, and a predetermined value is set in the bonus end number counter.

  Next, the main CPU 31 clears the carryover combination storage area (see FIG. 16) (S123). Next, the main CPU 31 transmits a bonus start command to the sub-control circuit 72 (S124). When this process ends, the bonus operation check process ends.

  When determining that the display combination is not BB in S121, the main CPU 31 determines whether or not the display combination is replay (S125). When determining that the display combination is replay, the main CPU 31 copies the value of the insertion number counter to the automatic insertion number counter (S126).

  When determining that the display combination is not replay in S125, the main CPU 31 determines whether or not the BB operating flag is on (S127). When the main CPU 31 determines that the BB operating flag is not on, it finishes the bonus operation check process, whereas when it determines that the BB operating flag is on, whether or not the RB operating flag is on. Is determined (S128).

  When the main CPU 31 determines that the RB operating flag is on, the main CPU 31 ends the bonus operation check process. On the other hand, when the main CPU 31 determines that the RB operating flag is not on, the main CPU 31 reads the bonus operating table (see FIG. 8). Referring to FIG. 4, the RB operation process is performed (S129). In this process, the RB operating flag is turned on, and predetermined values are set in the winning possible number counter and the possible gaming number counter. When this process ends, the bonus operation check process ends.

[Bonus end check process]
Next, the bonus end check process will be described with reference to FIG. First, the main CPU 31 determines whether or not the bonus end number counter is 0 (S141). When determining that the bonus end number counter is 0, the main CPU 31 performs BB end time processing (S142). In this process, the BB operating flag and the RB operating flag are turned off, and various counters for managing the end timing of the bonus are cleared. Next, the main CPU 31 transmits a bonus end command to the sub-control circuit 72 (S143). When this process ends, the bonus end check process ends.

  When the main CPU 31 determines that the bonus end number counter is not 0 in S141, the main CPU 31 updates the winning possible number counter or the possible gaming number counter (S144). In this process, the possible game number counter is decremented by one, and if there is a win, the possible pay number counter is decremented by one. Next, the main CPU 31 determines whether or not the winning possible number counter or the possible gaming number counter is 0 (S145).

  When the main CPU 31 determines that the winning possible number counter or the possible gaming number counter is not 0, the main CPU 31 ends the bonus end check process, while determining that the possible winning number counter or the possible game number counter is 0, Processing at the end of RB is performed (S146). In this process, the RB operating flag is turned off, and the winning possible number counter and the possible gaming number counter are cleared. When this process ends, the bonus end check process ends.

[Interrupt processing under the control of the main CPU (1.1173 msec)]
Next, an interrupt process (1.1173 msec) controlled by the main CPU 31 will be described with reference to FIG. First, the main CPU 31 saves a register (S161). Next, the main CPU 31 performs input port check processing (S162). In this process, signals input from various switches such as the stop switch 7S are checked.

  Next, the main CPU 31 performs a reel control process (S163). In this process, when the start of rotation of all reels 3L, 3C, 3R is requested, the rotation of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R is started, and then the stepping motors 49L, 49C, The drive of 49R is controlled. Further, when the number of sliding pieces is determined, the driving of the stepping motors 49L, 49C, 49R is controlled so that the rotation of the corresponding reel is continued for the number of sliding pieces and the rotation is decelerated and stopped. .

  Next, the main CPU 31 performs a lamp and 7-segment drive process (S164). Next, the main CPU 31 determines whether or not the lock flag is on (S165). When determining that the lock flag is on, the main CPU 31 performs a timer subtraction process (S166).

  Next, the main CPU 31 determines whether or not the value of the timer is “0” (S167). When determining that the value of the timer is “0”, the main CPU 31 updates the lock flag to OFF (S168). After this process, when determining that the lock flag is not on, or when determining that the value of the timer is not “0”, the main CPU 31 restores the register (S169). When this process ends, the interrupt process ends.

[Program flow executed by sub CPU of sub control circuit]
This completes the description of the contents of the program executed by the main CPU 31 of the main control circuit 71. Next, contents of a program executed by the sub CPU 81 of the sub control circuit 72 will be described with reference to FIGS.

[Main board communication task]
With reference to FIG. 29, the main board | substrate communication task performed by sub CPU81 is demonstrated. First, the sub CPU 81 performs reception check of the command transmitted from the main control circuit 71 (S301). Next, when receiving a command, the sub CPU 81 extracts the type of the command (S302).

  Next, the sub CPU 81 determines whether or not a command different from the previous one has been received (S303). If the sub CPU 81 determines that a command different from the previous command has not been received, the process proceeds to S301. On the other hand, if the sub CPU 81 determines that a command different from the previous command has been received, the sub CPU 81 stores the command in the message queue (S304).

[Direction registration task]
Next, an effect registration task performed by the sub CPU 81 will be described with reference to FIG. First, the sub CPU 81 extracts a message from the message queue (S311). Next, the sub CPU 81 determines whether there is a message (S312). When the sub CPU 81 determines that there is a message, it copies the game information from the message (S313). For example, various data such as an internal winning combination, a type of reel that has stopped rotating, a display combination, an operating flag, and the like specified by parameters are copied to a storage area provided in the sub-RAM 83.

  Next, the sub CPU 81 performs an effect content determination process which will be described later with reference to FIG. 31 (S314). In this process, depending on the type of the received command, the contents of the effect are determined and the effect data is registered.

  The sub CPU 81 registers animation data after S314 or when it is determined that there is no message in S312 (S315). Next, the sub CPU 81 registers sound data (S316). Next, the sub CPU 81 registers lamp data (S317). The registration of animation data, the registration of sound data, and the registration of ramp data are performed based on the effect data registered in the effect content determination process (see FIG. 31 described later). When this process ends, the process proceeds to S311.

[Production content decision processing]
Next, with reference to FIG. 31, the flowchart of the effect content determination process performed by sub CPU81 is demonstrated. First, the sub CPU 81 determines whether or not it is a start command reception time (S321). When the sub CPU 81 determines that the start command is received, the sub CPU 81 performs a start command reception process which will be described later with reference to FIG. 32 (S322). When this process ends, the effect content determination process ends.

  Next, when determining that the start command is not received, the sub CPU 81 determines whether or not the reel stop command is received (S323). If the sub CPU 81 determines that the reel stop command is received, the sub CPU 81 registers the stop effect data based on the registered effect number and the type of the operation stop button (S324). The operation stop button is a button that is pressed out of the effective stop buttons. When this process ends, the effect content determination process ends.

  Next, when determining that the reel stop command is not received, the sub CPU 81 determines whether or not the display command is received (S325). When determining that the display command is being received, the sub CPU 81 registers the display effect data based on the registered effect number (S326). When this process ends, the effect content determination process ends.

  Next, when determining that the display command is not received, the sub CPU 81 determines whether or not the bonus start command is received (S327). If the sub CPU 81 determines that the bonus start command is received, it registers the bonus start effect data (S328). When this process ends, the effect content determination process ends.

  Next, when determining that the bonus start command is not received, the sub CPU 81 determines whether or not the bonus end command is received (S329). When the sub CPU 81 determines that the bonus end command is received, the sub CPU 81 registers the bonus end effect data (S330).

  Next, the sub CPU 81 sets the value of the game number counter to “100” (S331). The “game number counter” is a counter for counting the number of unit games after the bonus ends, and “1” is subtracted every time a unit game is played. Next, the sub CPU 81 sets the notification state to the “high probability state” (S332), and ends the effect content determination process.

  Next, when determining that the bonus end command is not received, the sub CPU 81 determines whether or not it is a lock command reception (S333). If the sub CPU 81 determines that the lock command is not received, the effect content determination process ends (S334).

  On the other hand, when determining that the lock command is received, the sub CPU 81 refers to the AT period lottery table (FIG. 20), determines the AT period based on the lock number, and adds the determined AT period to the AT period counter. (S335). The “AT period counter” is a counter indicating the remaining number of times of so-called assist time. When this counter is 1 or more, the internal winning combination is one of red cherry, blue cherry, and green cherry. Next, the type of the internal winning combination is notified.

  Next, the sub CPU 81 determines and registers an effect number based on the lock number (S335). Next, the sub CPU 81 registers the effect data at the time of locking based on the registered effect number (S336), and ends the effect content determination process.

[Start command reception processing]
Next, with reference to FIG. 32, a flowchart of start command reception processing executed by the sub CPU 81 will be described. First, the sub CPU 81 determines whether or not the RB operating flag is on (S341). If the sub CPU 81 determines that the RB operating flag is on, the sub CPU 81 proceeds to the process of S352.

  On the other hand, when determining that the RB operation flag is not on, the sub CPU 81 determines whether or not the lock number is any of “1” to “18” (S342). If the sub CPU 81 determines that the lock number is not one of “1” to “18”, it proceeds to the processing of S344. When determining that the lock number is any of “1” to “18”, the sub CPU 81 refers to the lock notification lottery table (see FIGS. 18 and 19) corresponding to the current notification state, and sets the lock number. A production number is determined and registered based on this (S343).

  Next, the sub CPU 81 determines whether or not it is during the AT period (S344). When the sub CPU 81 determines that it is during the AT period, it subtracts “1” from the AT period counter (S345). Next, the sub CPU 81 determines whether or not the internal winning combination is red cherry (S346). When determining that the internal winning combination is red cherry, the sub CPU 81 registers “15” as the effect number (S347), and proceeds to the process of S352. The production number “15” corresponds to production data for notifying that the internal winning combination is red cherry.

  Next, the sub CPU 81 determines whether or not the internal winning combination is blue cherry (S348). When determining that the internal winning combination is blue cherry, the sub CPU 81 registers “16” as the effect number (S349), and proceeds to the process of S352. The production number “16” corresponds to production data for notifying that the internal winning combination is blue cherry.

  Next, the sub CPU 81 determines whether or not the internal winning combination is green cherry (S350). When determining that the internal winning combination is green cherry, the sub CPU 81 registers “17” as the effect number (S351), and proceeds to the processing of S352. The production number “17” corresponds to production data for notifying that the internal winning combination is green cherry.

  Next, the sub CPU 81 determines and registers an effect number based on the internal winning combination or the like (S352). Next, the sub CPU 81 registers the production data at the start based on the registered production number (S353). Next, the sub CPU 81 performs a game number update process which will be described later with reference to FIG. 33 (S354), and ends the start command reception process.

[Game number update processing]
Next, with reference to FIG. 33, the flowchart of the game number update process executed by the sub CPU 81 will be described. First, the sub CPU 81 determines whether or not the value of the game number counter is “0” (S361). When the value of the game number counter is “0”, the sub CPU 81 ends the game number update process. On the other hand, when the value of the game number counter is not “0”, the sub CPU 81 subtracts “1” from the value of the game number counter (S362).

  Next, the sub CPU 81 determines whether or not the value of the game number counter is “0” (S361). When the value of the game number counter is “0”, the sub CPU 81 sets the notification state to the “low probability state” (S364) and ends the game number update process. On the other hand, when the value of the game number counter is not “0”, the sub CPU 81 ends the game number update process.

[Display example on the display screen]
This completes the description of the contents of the program executed by the sub CPU 81 of the sub control circuit 72. Next, display examples on the display screen 5a will be described with reference to FIGS.

  34 to 36 show display examples of images displayed on the display screen 5a when performing lock notification.

  FIG. 34 (1) shows a display example when the start lever 6 is operated. In this display example, the display windows 21L, 21C, and 21R show how the symbols drawn on the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R are variably displayed. In addition, stop order display areas 201L, 201C, and 201R are provided below the display screen 5a. In the stop order display areas 201L, 201C, and 201R, “1” is displayed in the left stop order display area 201L, and “2” is displayed in the center stop order display area 201C. Also, “3” is displayed in the stop order display area 201C on the right. According to the display examples of the stop order display areas 201L, 201C, 201R, it is only necessary to first operate the left stop button 7L, then operate the center stop button 7C, and finally operate the right stop button 7R. Can be grasped.

  (2) of FIG. 34 shows a display example when the left stop button 7L is operated as the first stop operation. In this display example, in the left display window 21L, the rotation of the left reel 3L is stopped, and the pattern drawn on the reel 3L is stopped and displayed.

  FIG. 35 (3) shows a display example when the center stop button 7C is operated as the second stop operation. In this display example, in the middle display window 21C, the rotation of the central reel 3C is stopped, and the pattern drawn on the reel 3C is stopped and displayed.

  (4) of FIG. 35 shows a display example when the right stop button 7C is operated as the third stop operation. In this display example, it is shown that the right reel 3R stops rotating in the right display window 21R, and the symbols drawn on the reel 3R are stopped and displayed.

  FIG. 36 (5) shows a display example when the start lever 6 is operated during the period from when the rotation of the right reel 3R stops until 5000 ms elapses. In this case, the lock is applied, and the operation of the operation unit such as the start lever 6 and the stop buttons 7L, 7C, 7R is invalid. Accordingly, similarly to the display example of (4) in FIG. 35, the rotation of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R is stopped in the three display windows 21L, 21C, 21R, and the symbols drawn on these reels 3L, 3C, 3R are displayed. The state of stopping display is shown.

  FIG. 36 (6) shows a display example when the start lever 6 is operated after 5000 ms has elapsed since the rotation of the right reel 3R stopped. In this case, since the lock is released, the display windows 21L, 21C, and 21R show how the symbols drawn on the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R are variably displayed. Note that since the lock number is newly drawn, when the newly drawn lock number is “0”, the display in the stop order display areas 201L, 201C, and 201R is not performed.

  As described above, according to the pachi-slot 1, the main CPU 31 determines whether or not to allow the lock. Then, when allowing, it is determined whether or not the stop operation order determined in advance with reference to the lock lottery table (see FIG. 13) and the order in which the stop buttons 7L, 7C, and 7R are actually operated match. In the case of coincidence, the start lever 6 and the stop buttons 7L, 7C, and 7B, until the time determined with reference to the lock time table (see FIG. 14) elapses after the rotation of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R is stopped. The operation of the operation unit such as 7R is invalidated.

  Here, when the main CPU 31 is allowed to lock, the sub CPU 81 uses the display screen 5a to determine in advance with reference to the lock lottery table (see FIG. 13) before the player performs a stop operation. The player is prompted to operate the stop buttons 7L, 7C, and 7R in the order of the stop operations performed. Thus, by satisfying the restriction that information is transmitted in one direction from the main CPU 31 to the sub CPU 81, the control in the main CPU 31 is performed according to the control contents in the sub CPU 81 while maintaining the same security as the conventional pachislot. A gaming machine capable of changing contents can be provided.

  FIG. 37 shows a display example of the video displayed on the display screen 5a during the AT period.

  When the lock after the third stop operation is performed, the sub CPU 81 refers to the AT period lottery table (FIG. 20) and determines the AT period based on the lock number at that time. In FIG. 37, after that, “4” is selected as the lock number, the internal winning combination is “red cherry”, the production numbers are “2” and “15”, and when the start lever 6 is operated, the display screen 5a is displayed. The example of a display of the image | video displayed is shown.

  In this display example, the display windows 21L, 21C, and 21R show how the symbols drawn on the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R are variably displayed. In addition, stop order display areas 201L, 201C, and 201R are provided below the display screen 5a. In the stop order display areas 201L, 201C, 201R, “1” is displayed in the left stop order display area 201L, and “3” is displayed in the center stop order display area 201C. Also, “2” is displayed in the stop order display area 201C on the right. According to the display examples of the stop order display areas 201L, 201C, 201R, it is only necessary to first operate the left stop button 7L, then operate the right stop button 7R, and finally operate the center stop button 7C. Can be grasped.

  A red cherry 202 pattern is displayed above the left stop order display area 201L. From this display, it can be understood that the left stop button 7L may be operated in the left display window 21L so that the red cherry pattern stops on the active line.

  As described above, according to the pachislot 1, if the left stop button 7L is operated in accordance with the notification content on the display screen 5a, the payout number of medals corresponding to the red cherry can be obtained. Further, by operating the stop buttons 7L, 7C, and 7R in the order according to the notification content on the display screen 5a, the lock is applied again, and the number of times of performing the AT period can be further increased. Therefore, it is possible to provide a gaming machine that is even more interesting while maintaining the same security as that of a conventional gaming machine.

  Although the embodiment has been described above, the present invention is not limited to this.

  In the present embodiment, with reference to the lock lottery table shown in FIG. 13, the stop operation order for locking is determined for one unit game, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, as shown in FIG. 35, the stop operation order for locking may be determined for a plurality of unit games. By doing in this way, the number of times of performing the assist time can be continuously determined over a plurality of unit games, so that it is possible to provide a gaming machine that is even more interesting.

  In this embodiment, as a mode of locking, the progress of the game is stopped until a predetermined time elapses after the rotation of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R is stopped, but is not limited to this. For example, the progress of the game may be stopped until a predetermined time elapses after the start lever 6 is operated.

  In the present embodiment, the number of assist times is determined according to the fact that the lock is performed, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the gaming state may be changed in accordance with the locking, or the type of the internal lottery table may be changed.

  In the present embodiment, the number of times the assist time is performed can be predicted based on the length of time to lock, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the presence / absence of bonus internal winning may be predicted, or the number of types of internal winning combinations to be notified may be notified.

It is a figure which shows the function flow of a pachislot. It is a figure which shows the external structure of a pachislot. It is a figure which shows the internal structure of a pachislot. It is a figure which shows the structure of a main control circuit. It is a figure which shows the structure of a sub control circuit. It is a figure which shows a symbol arrangement | positioning table. It is a figure which shows a symbol combination table. It is a figure which shows a table at the time of a bonus action | operation. It is a figure which shows the internal lottery table for general game states. It is a figure which shows the internal lottery table for RB operation | movement. It is a figure which shows the internal winning combination determination table for a small combination and replay. It is a figure which shows the internal winning combination determination table for bonuses. It is a figure which shows a lock lottery table. It is a figure which shows a lock time determination table. It is a figure for demonstrating the structure of an internal winning combination storing area. It is a figure for demonstrating the structure of the carryover combination storage area. It is a figure for demonstrating the structure of the operating flag storage area. It is a figure which shows the lock notification lottery table for high probability states. It is a figure which shows the lock notification lottery table for low probability states. It is a figure which shows an AT period determination table. It is a main flowchart by control of main CPU. It is a flowchart which shows a medal reception / start check process. It is a flowchart which shows an internal lottery process. It is a flowchart which shows a lock lottery process. It is a flowchart which shows a reel stop control process. It is a flowchart which shows a bonus action check process. It is a flowchart which shows a bonus completion | finish check process. It is a flowchart which shows an interruption process. It is a flowchart which shows the main board | substrate communication task performed by sub CPU. It is a flowchart which shows the production registration task performed by sub CPU. It is a flowchart which shows the production content determination process performed by sub CPU. It is a flowchart which shows the process at the time of the start command reception performed by sub CPU. It is a flowchart which shows the game frequency update process performed by sub CPU. It is a figure which shows the example of a display when performing lock alerting | reporting. It is a figure which shows the example of a display following FIG. It is a figure which shows the example of a display following FIG. It is a figure which shows the example of a display during AT period. It is a figure which shows the lock time determination table which concerns on a modification.

Explanation of symbols

1 Pachislot 3L, 3C, 3R Reel 5 Liquid crystal display device 6 Start lever 7L, 7C, 7R Stop button 21L, 21C, 21R Display window 71 Main control circuit 72 Sub control circuit

Claims (3)

Operation detecting means for detecting an operation by a player;
Main control means for controlling a game based on detection of an operation by the operation detection means;
Sub-control means for controlling the production based on the control by the main control means;
An information transmission means for transmitting information in one direction from the main control means to the sub-control means,
The main control means includes
Specific control determining means for determining whether or not to allow execution for specific control;
A specific control execution unit configured to execute the specific control based on whether or not a specific operation has been performed on the operation detection unit when the specific control determination unit permits execution of the specific control; Have
The sub-control means includes
A gaming machine comprising: a specific operation notifying means for notifying a player of the specific operation when it is determined by the specific control determining means to allow the execution of the specific control. In the gaming machine according to claim 1,
A symbol display means having a display unit for displaying a plurality of types of symbols in a plurality of columns;
A plurality of stop operation means provided corresponding to each of the plurality of rows and operable by a player;
The operation detection means is provided corresponding to each of the plurality of stop operation means, and has a stop operation detection means for detecting an operation of the stop operation means by a player,
The main control means includes
An internal lottery means for determining at least one of a plurality of predetermined combinations as a winning combination in response to a game start command signal for instructing the start of a unit game;
In response to the game start command signal, start control means for starting the variable display of symbols in the plurality of columns,
A stop control means for stopping the change display of the symbols in the row corresponding to the operated stop operation means in response to the operation of the stop operation means being detected by the stop operation detecting means,
The specific control is to stop the progress of the game until a predetermined time elapses after the predetermined start condition is satisfied, provided that the operation order of the stop operation means is a predetermined order. ,
The main control means further includes order determining means for determining the predetermined order in response to the game start command signal,
The specific control execution means determines whether or not a specific operation has been performed on the operation detection means depending on whether or not the order in which the stop operation means is operated matches the predetermined order determined by the order determination means. And performing the specific control based on the result of the determination,
When the specific control determining unit determines to allow the execution of the specific control, the specific operation notifying unit determines the predetermined order determined by the order determining unit in response to the game start command signal. To the player as the specific operation. The gaming machine according to claim 2,
The sub-control means notifies the winning combination determined by the internal lottery means until a predetermined number of the unit games are executed on the condition that the specific control is executed by the specific control execution means. A gaming machine comprising a winning combination notifying means.

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