JP2010142503A - Performance method of game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To make players feel expectations even for the latent varied probability game states. <P>SOLUTION: The game machine indicates the degree of expectation for the latent varied probability game states by switching performance modes. Specifically, the game machine carries out a lottery for destinations of shifting in the switching of the performance modes at a prescribed timing using a lottery table having the probabilities determined for shifting to respective performance modes on a display screen and switches the performance modes from the result of the shift destination lottery. In a high probability state such as the latent varied probability game state, the shift probability is higher to the specified performance modes (those likely with a higher degree of expectation) while in a low probability state such as the normal game state, it is higher to other performance modes (those likely with a lower degree of expectation). <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2010,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to an effect method for a pachinko gaming machine and the like, and more particularly, to an effect method for a gaming machine in which a plurality of effect modes for effects performed on a display screen are provided and an effect is performed using these effect modes.

  Conventionally, when a game ball launched into the game area of the game board enters a specific start winning opening, three rows of symbols (for example, symbols of numbers 1 to 12) displayed on the display unit move from top to bottom. A game machine is widely used in which, when the same or related symbols are displayed on a certain line (active line), a big win is opened and a big win game is made.

  In such a gaming machine, for example, there are those that can take two gaming states, a normal gaming state and a high probability state (probability gaming state) in which the probability of winning a jackpot than the normal gaming state is increased. is there. In recent years, even in the probability variation gaming state, in order to eliminate the rubbing in the probability variation gaming state, gaming machines that have been hidden without notifying the player that the probability variation gaming state has been widely used (for example, (See Patent Document 1 below.)

JP 2004-65388 A

  However, in the above prior art, even if it is in the probability variation gaming state, it is not notified, so even if the probability variation gaming state at the corner is in the corner, the player may not be able to determine that it is in the probability variation gaming state. there were. In such a case, the player's sense of expectation for the jackpot cannot be maintained despite being in a probabilistic gaming state, and a player who has been bored due to lack of performance may quit the game.

  In order to solve the above-described problems caused by the prior art, the present invention provides an effect method for a gaming machine that can enhance the player's expectation while concealing without clearly indicating that the game state is probabilistic. For the purpose.

  In addition, the game machine production method according to the present invention uses a lottery table that determines the probability of transition to each production mode on the display screen when the symbol is changed a specified number of times since the last production mode was switched. , Including a lottery processing step for performing lottery for switching the production mode, and the lottery processing step has a different probability of transition to each effect mode in the latent probability changing gaming state and in the normal gaming state. A lottery is performed using a lottery table.

  In the above-described invention, the effect mode is composed of at least three effect modes, the first effect mode is shifted to the second effect mode, and the second effect mode is changed to the first effect mode. The third production mode is shifted to the third production mode, and the third production mode is shifted to the second production mode.

  Further, in the above-described invention, in the lottery table, when the game is in the latent probability changing game state, the transition from the second effect mode to the first effect mode is more than the transition from the second effect mode to the first effect mode. While increasing the probability of shifting to the third effect mode, and in the normal gaming state, the first effect mode is changed from the second effect mode to the first effect mode rather than the transition to the third effect mode. It is characterized by increasing the probability of shifting to the production mode.

  In the invention described above, in the lottery table, the probability of transition from the second effect mode to the first effect mode is higher in the normal game state than in the latent probability game state. And the probability of transition from the second effect mode to the third effect mode is set so that the latent probability game state is higher than the normal game state.

  In the invention described above, in the lottery table, the probability of transition from the first effect mode to the second effect mode is set to be higher in the latent probability game state than in the normal game state. It is characterized by doing.

  In the invention described above, in the lottery table, the probability of transition from the third effect mode to the second effect mode is set so that the normal game state is higher than the latent probability game state. It is characterized by doing.

  Further, in the above-described invention, when a big hit occurs during the production in the first production mode or the second production mode, the process shifts to the third production mode without performing the lottery process. It is characterized by that.

  According to the above configuration, it is suggested to the player whether the game is a latent probability change game state in which the probability change game state is hidden by an indirect effect using the change of the effect mode instead of the content of the effect mode. Therefore, it is possible to increase the player's sense of expectation for the latent probability changing game state while suppressing the occurrence of rut in the probability changing game state.

  Furthermore, according to the above configuration, since the effect mode can be switched at a predetermined frequency (for example, every time the symbol is changed a predetermined number of times), the same effect mode is prevented from continuing for a long time, and the effect is monotonized. Can be prevented.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to increase the player's expectation for the latent probability changing gaming state even in the latent probability changing gaming state without notifying whether or not it is in the probability changing gaming state while suppressing the occurrence of rut in the probability changing gaming state. Therefore, it is possible to entertain the game without boring the player who plays for a long time.

  Furthermore, according to the present invention, the effect mode can be switched at a predetermined frequency, so that the effect can be prevented from being monotonous and the game can be enjoyed without boring the player who plays for a long time. .

  Exemplary embodiments of a game machine presentation method according to the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

(Basic configuration of gaming machine)
1 and 2 are explanatory views showing the basic configuration of the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 1, the state which looked at an example of the game machine of embodiment concerning this invention from the front is shown. FIG. 2 shows a state in which a part of the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention is disassembled and viewed from an oblique direction.

  1 and 2, the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention includes a game board 101. At a lower position of the game board 101, a launching unit (see reference numeral 392 in FIG. 3) for launching a game ball is arranged in the game area 103. The game ball launched by driving the launching unit rises between the rails 102a and 102b and reaches the upper position of the game board 101, and then falls within the game area 103 by its own weight. The game area 103 is provided with a plurality of nails, windmills, etc., and the game balls launched into the game area 103 change the falling direction in various directions by colliding with the plurality of nails, windmills, etc. Fall.

  In the game area 103, a start winning port 105, a winning gate 106, a plurality of normal winning ports 107, and the like are arranged. Each of the start winning holes 105, the winning gates 106, and the plurality of ordinary winning holes 107 has detection units (indicated by reference numerals 321 to 324 in FIG. 3) whose outputs change depending on whether or not the game balls are won at the winning holes 105 to 107. Reference) is provided. The start winning opening 105 is provided with an electric tulip (hereinafter referred to as “electric chew”), which is not shown in the figure, and is a tulip-shaped accessory that is electrically opened and closed. The electric Chu operates to open the start winning opening 105 larger than usual for a predetermined time at a predetermined timing when the winning gate 106 is won.

  Below the game area 103, a special winning opening 109 is provided. The big prize opening 109 is provided with a big prize door 109a that closes the big prize opening 109 so that it can be opened. The big prize opening 109 is closed by a big prize door 109a in a state other than the big hit state. The big prize opening 109 is opened and closed by the big prize door 109a by a special prize opening opening / closing section (see reference numeral 331 in FIG. 3). At the bottom of the game area 103, there is provided a collection port 108 for collecting game balls that have not won any winning ports.

  A frame member 110 is provided on the outer peripheral portion of the game area 103 of the game board 101. The frame member 110 has a shape that surrounds the periphery of the game area 103 on the four sides of the game board 101 in the vertical and horizontal directions. The frame member 110 is provided with an operation handle 113 at a lower right portion toward the gaming machine. The operation handle 113 includes a firing instruction member 114 that drives the above-described launching unit to launch a game ball.

  The firing instruction member 114 is provided on the outer peripheral portion of the operation handle 113 so as to rotate clockwise as viewed from the player. The firing unit launches a game ball in a state where the firing instruction member 114 is directly operated by the player and rotated in a predetermined direction (for example, clockwise). The operation handle 113 is provided with a sensor for detecting that the player is directly operating the firing instruction member 114. Since a sensor that detects that the player directly operates the firing instruction member 114 is a known technique, a description thereof will be omitted.

  In the frame member 110, a chance button 117 that accepts an operation by the player is provided on the lower side of the game area 103. In this embodiment, the chance button 117 has a convex button shape. The chance button 117 may be an input pad that employs a touch panel system in addition to the convex button.

  In the frame member 110, a cross key 118 is provided next to the chance button 117. The cross key 118 includes a cursor key for selecting an operation content and the like, and an “ENTER” key (not shown) for confirming the operation content selected by operating the cursor key.

  In the game board 101, a display unit 104 is arranged at the center of the game area 103. The display unit 104 can be realized by, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD). The display unit 104 realized by a liquid crystal display includes a liquid crystal display panel 201 capable of displaying various images in color, and a liquid crystal shutter 202 provided on the back surface of the liquid crystal display panel 201.

  A light source (not shown) that illuminates the display unit 104 is provided on the back side of the display unit 104. The liquid crystal shutter 202 operates so as to transmit or block illumination light emitted from the light source to the front side of the gaming machine over the entire display area or in a partial display area based on the applied voltage.

  A reel 203 is disposed on the back side of the display unit 104. The reel 203 is configured by arranging a total of nine (9 frames) small reels 203a to 203i of 3 vertical × 3 horizontal, arranged in a matrix. The small reels 203 a to 203 i are arranged on the back side of the display unit 104 so as to form a plane parallel to the display screen formed by the display unit 104.

  Each of the small reels 203a to 203i has a cylindrical shape, and a plurality of types of symbols are written on the outer peripheral surface. Specifically, a symbol for jackpot (for example, “7”) and a symbol for losing (for example, an asterisk) are written on the outer peripheral surfaces of the small reels 203a to 203i, respectively. Each of the small reels 203a to 203i is provided so as to be rotatable about a cylindrical axis.

  A motor that rotates each reel independently is connected to each of the small reels 203a to 203i. By driving the motors and individually rotating the small reels 203a to 203i, the symbols directed to the display unit 104 by the small reels 203a to 203i can be changed. Each of the small reels 203a to 203i shows a predetermined outcome in a state where one symbol is stopped toward the display unit 104 side. The reel 203 shows a predetermined outcome when all the small reels 203a to 203i are stopped.

  The light source is provided between the display unit 104 and the reel 203. The light source can be constituted by a plurality of LEDs, for example. The light source functions as a backlight of the display unit 104 and also functions as illumination that illuminates the symbols indicated by the small reels 203 a to 203 i in the reel 203.

(Internal configuration of control unit)
FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the internal configuration of the control unit of the gaming machine. The control unit 300 includes a plurality of control units including a main control unit 301, an effect control unit 302, and a prize ball control unit 303. Each control unit 301 to 303 is provided on an independent substrate. Each of the control units 301 to 303 may be partly or wholly provided on the same substrate, for example, the main control unit 301 and the prize ball control unit 303 are provided on the same printed circuit board.

  The main control unit 301 controls basic operations related to gaming of the gaming machine. The main control unit 301 includes a CPU 311, a ROM 312, a RAM 313, and the like. The CPU 311 executes basic processing according to the progress of game content based on the program stored in the ROM 312. The ROM 312 stores various programs for executing basic processing associated with the progress of game content, a jackpot value used for jackpot determination, and the like. The RAM 313 functions as a data work area when the CPU 311 performs arithmetic processing.

  The CPU 311 counts, for example, a jackpot determination random number as a basic process associated with the progress of game contents. Specifically, for example, in the case of a gaming machine whose jackpot probability is set to 1/280, the CPU 311 counts up by +1 with a numerical value from 0 to 279 while the gaming machine is activated. . The CPU 311 starts counting up from the time of supplying power to the main control unit 301, and after counting for one loop, counts for the next one loop. The RAM 313 functions as a counter for counting such jackpot determination random numbers.

  Then, when the game ball launched by the launching unit 392 wins the start winning opening 105 (hereinafter referred to as “start winning”), the CPU 311 acquires the count value at the time of starting winning as a jackpot determination random number. The jackpot determination random number to be acquired differs depending on the timing of starting winning. Specifically, for example, in the case of a gaming machine in which the jackpot probability 1/280 is set, the CPU 311 calculates a numerical value counted at the time of starting winning from a numerical value group including integers from 0 to 279, Obtained as a jackpot determination random number. If it is said example, the numerical value in the numerical group comprised by the integer from 0 to 279 will be acquired as a random number for jackpot determination.

  Whenever the CPU 311 acquires the jackpot determination random number, the CPU 311 compares the acquired jackpot determination random number with the jackpot value stored in the ROM 312 and performs a jackpot determination. Specifically, the CPU 311 determines, for example, whether or not the jackpot determination random number matches the jackpot value, and determines that the match is a jackpot. In the jackpot determination, when the jackpot determination random number for performing the jackpot determination is acquired, that is, when the effect corresponding to the previous start winning is being performed at the time of starting winning, the effect being performed is ended Then do it.

  Although the details will be described later, the above jackpot value varies depending on the game state being executed. For example, in the gaming state having the jackpot probability of 1/280 (hereinafter referred to as “low probability state”), the jackpot value is set to “0”. In a gaming state with a jackpot probability of 1/28 (hereinafter referred to as “high probability state”), the jackpot value is set to “0” to “9”. Therefore, in the high probability state, the jackpot probability is 10 times that in the low probability state, and the gaming state is such that the player can expect a jackpot as compared to the low probability state.

  Further, the CPU 311 performs, for example, a reach random number count, a variation pattern random number count, a design random number count, and the like as a basic process as the game content progresses. The reach random number is acquired when there is a start winning, and determines whether or not to perform a reach effect in the effect performed according to the start winning. The reach random number is effective when the result of the jackpot determination is a loss, and the gaming machine performs a loss effect with a reach effect when the result of the jackpot determination is a loss and the CPU 311 acquires a specific reach random number.

  The variation pattern random number is acquired immediately before starting the production every time the production is performed according to the start winning prize, and determines the variation pattern (for example, the variation time) of the symbol displayed on the reel 203 or the display unit 104 at the time of the production. The symbol random number is acquired when it is determined that the jackpot is determined to be a jackpot, and determines the jackpot type (the jackpot type will be described later). Reach random number counting, variation pattern random number counting, and design random number counting are performed using separate counters. Since the counting of each random number is the same as the counting of the jackpot determination random number described above, the description thereof is omitted.

  On the input side of the main control unit 301, a start winning port detecting unit 321, a gate detecting unit 322, a normal winning port detecting unit 323, a big winning port detecting unit 324, and the like are connected. The start winning opening detection unit 321 detects a winning ball that has won the start winning opening 105. The gate detection unit 322 detects a game ball that has passed through the winning gate 106. The normal winning opening detecting unit 323 detects a game ball won in the normal winning opening 107. The special winning opening detection unit 324 detects a winning ball that has won the special winning opening 109. Each of the detection units 321 to 324 can be realized by a proximity sensor, for example. In this case, each sensor realizing the detection units 321 to 324 outputs a signal indicating an ON state at a timing when the game ball approaches each sensor.

  The CPU 311 monitors the output from each of the detection units 321 to 324 every predetermined time (for example, 4 msec). When a game ball wins the start winning port 105, the winning gate 106, the normal winning port 107, or the big winning port 109, the outputs from the corresponding detection units 321 to 324 are continuously turned on twice or more. Based on the output from each of the detection units 321 to 324, the CPU 311 determines that there has been a prize at a location corresponding to the detection units 321 to 324 that have been turned on continuously twice or more.

  A large winning opening / closing unit 331 is connected to the output side of the main control unit 301, and when the CPU 311 detects that a game ball has won the large winning port 109, the large winning opening / closing unit 331 has a large value. An opening / closing signal of the winning door 109a is output. The special winning opening / closing unit 331 controls the opening / closing of the special winning opening 109 by the special winning door 109 a based on the open / close signal output from the main control unit 301. The big prize opening / closing part 331 can be realized by, for example, a solenoid coupled to the big prize door 109a.

  The CPU 311 controls the big prize opening / closing unit 331 so that the big prize opening 109 is opened only for a certain period when a big hit occurs. The big winning opening 109 is opened after a predetermined time after the big hit is determined by the big hit determination, for example. In addition, when a big hit occurs, the CPU 311 controls the big prize opening / closing part 331 so that the opening / closing operation of closing the big prize opening 109 and then closing it again is repeated a predetermined round (for example, 15 rounds). The period of one round is, for example, a period during which ten game balls are won in the big winning opening 109 or a predetermined period (for example, 30 seconds). The jackpot is programmed in advance to occur with a predetermined probability (for example, 1/280) based on the generated random number.

  In addition, when the CPU 311 detects that a game ball has won a place where there is a payout, such as the start winning hole 105, the normal winning hole 107, and the big winning hole 109, the winning ball control connected to the output side of the main control unit 301 is performed. A prize ball control signal is output to the unit 303. Based on the output signal from the main control unit 301, the prize ball control unit 303 pays out a prize connected to the output side of the prize ball control unit 303 so as to pay out the number of prize balls according to the place where the gaming machine has won a prize. The unit 391 is driven and controlled.

  The prize ball control unit 303 includes a CPU 381, a ROM 382, a RAM 383, and the like. Based on the control signal from the main control unit 301 and the program stored in the ROM 382, the CPU 381 drives and controls the payout unit 391 connected to the output side of the prize ball control unit 303, and the number corresponding to the place where the prize is won. The prize ball is paid out.

  During the opening / closing operation of the big prize opening 109, the prize ball control unit 303 pays out 15 prize balls, for example, every time one game ball wins the big prize opening 109. The RAM 383 functions as a data work area when the CPU 381 performs arithmetic processing. The payout unit 391 is connected to a game ball storage unit, and includes a motor for paying out game balls, a sensor for counting the number of game balls paid out, and the like. The payout unit 391 pays out the number of prize balls corresponding to the winning location according to the output signal from the prize ball control unit 303.

  The award ball control unit 303 detects an operation of launching a game ball with respect to the launch unit 392 and controls the launch of the game ball. The launching unit 392 launches a game ball for gaming, and includes a sensor that detects a game operation by the player, a solenoid that launches the game ball, and the like (all of which are not shown). When the award ball control unit 303 detects a game operation by the sensor of the launch unit 392, the game ball 103 is intermittently fired by driving a solenoid or the like in response to the detected game operation, thereby playing the game area 103 of the game board 101. A game ball is sent out.

  The effect control unit 302 controls various effects during the game. The display unit 104 and the reel 203 are connected to the output side of the effect control unit 302. The effect control unit 302 controls the operation of the display unit 104 and the reel 203 to control the effect operation during the game. The effect control unit 302 includes a CPU 341, a ROM 342, a RAM 343, and the like.

  Based on the control signal from the main control unit 301 and the program stored in the ROM 342, the CPU 341 executes effect processing that produces game content. The ROM 342 stores various programs related to execution of the effect processing, various image data (background image, design image, character image, etc.) displayed on the display unit 104, and rotation control data for the reel 203. The RAM 343 functions as a data work area when the CPU 341 performs arithmetic processing.

  The CPU 341 reads a program and various image data stored in the ROM 342, and performs various image processing such as background image display processing, symbol image display / variation processing, and character image display processing. When executing various image processes, the CPU 341 reads out necessary image data from the ROM 342 and writes the read image data into the VRAM 344 provided in the effect control unit 302 or the like. When writing image data to the VRAM 344 provided in the effect control unit 302, the CPU 341 processes the image data so that the design image and the character image can be seen in front of the background image.

  Specifically, for example, when the display position of the background image and the design image displayed on the display unit 104 overlaps the same position in the display screen, the Z value of the Z buffer of each image data by a known hidden surface removal method such as the Z buffer method , The symbol image is preferentially stored in the VRAM 344 or the like. Based on the image data written in the VRAM 344, the display unit 104 displays an image in which the design image and the character image can be seen in front of the background image. Specifically, the display unit 104 displays, for example, a design that produces a game content until winning a prize, a reach (a state in which two of the three symbols are arranged), a design that produces a game content at the time of a big hit. Output the image data.

  In addition, the CPU 341 reads a program and rotation control data stored in the ROM 342 and performs rotation control processing of the reel 203. In the rotation control processing of the reel 203, the CPU 341 reads out necessary rotation control data from the ROM 342, and the rotation direction, rotation speed, and rotation speed of the motors connected to the small reels 203a to 203i based on the read rotation control data. Control etc.

  “Rotation” in this embodiment indicates an operation state in which an arbitrary reference position on each of the small reels 203a to 203i moves 360 degrees on the circumference around each axis. In addition, in this embodiment, “rotation” means that an arbitrary reference position on each of the small reels 203a to 203i moves on the circumference around each axis at a rotation angle of less than 360 degrees or greater than 360 degrees. , Including a so-called “turning” operating state.

  Specifically, the CPU 341 shows a state where, for example, a predetermined number (for example, three) of symbols are aligned on one line by controlling the rotation of the reel 203. Further, the CPU 341 controls the rotation of the reel 203, and specifically shows a state in which, for example, the number of symbols indicating the reach (two of the three symbols) are aligned on one line.

  The CPU 341 assists the design of the reel 203 in accordance with the design state of the plurality of small reels 203a to 203i so that the effect image displayed on the display unit 104 and the design state of the reel 203 are linked to each other. Generate and output various image data. Specifically, the CPU 341 assists the design of the reel 203 when, for example, the design of the reel 203 indicates a reach state or a jackpot state, and the image data of the effect image that enhances the player's expectation and excitement. Is generated and output.

  Further, the CPU 341 generates and outputs image data of an effect image representing the effect mode being executed. For example, the CPU 341 reads the image data of the background image associated with the effect mode being executed and writes it in the VRAM 344. As described above, if the CPU 341 also displays a symbol image or a character image at this time, the CPU 341 processes the image data so that they can be seen in front of the background image.

  Further, the CPU 341 generates and outputs different image data according to the presence / absence of the effect button operation or the operation timing of the effect button so that the effect image displayed on the display unit 104 changes according to the operation of the effect button. Further, the CPU 341 varies the rotation control of the reel 203 according to the presence / absence of the effect button operation or the operation timing of the effect button so that the symbol formed by the reel 203 changes according to the operation of the effect button.

  An audio control unit 355 is connected to the output side of the effect control unit 302. The CPU 341 outputs data (audio output control data) for controlling the energization state of the coil included in the speaker 377 to the audio control unit 355. The audio control unit 355 changes various energization states for the coil based on the audio output control data output from the effect control unit 302, so that various sounds such as BGM, effect sound effects, character dialogue, and the like are output from the speaker 377. Output from.

(Basic operation of gaming machines)
Next, an example of the basic operation of the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described. When the gaming machine detects a player's operation, the gaming unit launches a game ball by the launching unit 392. The launched game ball falls downward in the game area 103 by its own weight while colliding with a nail or a windmill. A part of the launched game balls wins a winning prize opening 105, a normal winning opening 107, a grand prize winning opening 109, and the like.

  The main control unit 301 outputs the winning status of the game balls at the place where there is a payout, such as the start winning port 105, the normal winning port 107, and the big winning port 109, to the winning ball control unit 303. The winning ball control unit 303 pays out the number of winning balls corresponding to the winning situation in accordance with the output signal from the main control unit 301. Further, when the game ball wins the winning gate 106, the main control unit 301 opens the start winning opening 105 larger than usual for a predetermined time.

  Further, when the game ball wins the start winning opening 105 (start winning prize), the main control unit 301 performs the jackpot determination described above, and performs a lose effect or a jackpot effect according to the jackpot determination result. Specifically, when the gaming machine determines that the acquired jackpot determination random number and the jackpot value do not match, the effect control unit 302 executes a lose effect. In addition, when the main control unit 301 determines that the acquired jackpot determination random number matches the jackpot value, the effect control unit 302 executes the jackpot effect. Further, when the main control unit 301 determines that the acquired jackpot determination random number and the jackpot value match, the main control unit 301 opens the jackpot 109 for a predetermined number of rounds.

  Further, the main control unit 301 outputs a signal corresponding to the place where the winning is made to the winning ball control unit 303, and the winning ball control unit 303 controls driving of the payout unit 391 according to the output signal from the main control unit 301. , Pay out the number of prize balls according to the place where the prize was won. And the main control part 301 complete | finishes a jackpot state after completion | finish of jackpot presentation, and returns to another game state. The gaming state that shifts after the big hit state will be described later with reference to FIG.

  When there is another start winning during the execution of the production corresponding to the previous start winning, the main control unit 301 acquires the big hit determining random number at the time of the start winning and holds the acquired big hit determining random number To do. Then, after the effect that is being executed is finished, the jackpot determination using the reserved jackpot determination random number is performed, and a signal indicating the jackpot determination result is output to the effect control unit 302. The effect control unit 302 performs various effects according to the output signal from the main control unit 301.

  Further, when the main control unit 301 obtains and holds the jackpot determination random number, the main control unit 301 may determine whether the held jackpot determination random number matches the jackpot value (so-called “look ahead”). (Hereinafter referred to as “look ahead”). Then, a signal indicating the prefetch result is output to the effect control unit 302. As a result, the effect control unit 302 can perform an effect that gradually increases the player's expectation before the start of the big change.

  The effect control unit 302 uses the display unit 104 and the reel 203 to perform various effects such as a loss effect and a jackpot effect. Specifically, the effect control unit 302, for example, rotates all the small reels 203a to 203i, and then sequentially stops the small reels 203a to 203i to indicate a predetermined outcome using the reel 203. An image in accordance with the rotation and stop operation of the reel 203 is displayed on the display unit 104.

  The display unit 104 displays an image that is linked to the operation of the reel 203 and the roll made by the reel 203. In this manner, by interlinking the image display operation on the display unit 104 and the operation of the reel 203, it is possible to enhance the effect of the effect produced by the gaming machine. Further, the display unit 104 displays an image corresponding to the effect mode being executed.

  Since the display unit 104 and the reel 203 are arranged so as to overlap each other in the depth direction of the gaming machine, the player visually recognizes the entire reel 203 or some of the small reels 203a to 203i in accordance with an image displayed on the display unit 104. can do. The player sees the reel 203 on the rear side (back side) of the display unit 104 through the display unit 104, and simultaneously produces the effect by the display unit 104 and the effect by the reel 203 without shifting the line of sight. Can see.

  In addition, since the display unit 104 and the reel 203 are arranged so as to overlap in the depth direction of the gaming machine, in a region where the display unit 104 and the reel 203 overlap with each other, The player can see the entire reel 203 or show the player only a part of the reel 203 (for example, only one of the small reels 203a to 203i is cut off). Specifically, for example, when the display unit 104 is realized by a liquid crystal display, the entire reel 203 is shown to the player or only a part of the reel 203 is shown to the player by adjusting the opening / closing degree of the shutter. Directing can be performed.

(Game state that the gaming machine of this embodiment can take)
Next, gaming states that can be taken by the gaming machine of the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing gaming states that can be taken by the gaming machine of the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 4, the gaming machine according to the present embodiment has a “hit state”, “probability change game state”, “latent probability change game state”, “normal game state”, and “short-time game state”. Any of the gaming states can be taken. The contents of each game state will be described below.

  When the jackpot is won in other gaming states except the jackpot state, the gaming machine shifts to the jackpot state. The jackpot state is continued until a predetermined jackpot end condition is satisfied. The jackpot ending condition is, for example, to open the big winning holes 109 for the number of specified rounds. When the jackpot ending condition is satisfied, the game state set for each winning jackpot type is entered.

  For example, when the winning jackpot type is a 15-round probability variation jackpot (so-called probability variation jackpot; hereinafter referred to as “probability variation jackpot”), the gaming machine shifts to a probability variation gaming state. In the case of 15 rounds of a normal jackpot (a so-called normal jackpot; hereinafter referred to as a “normal jackpot”), the gaming machine shifts to a short-time gaming state. In the case of two rounds of probability variation jackpots (so-called latent probability variation jackpots, hereinafter referred to as “latent probability jackpots”), the gaming machine shifts to a latent probability variation gaming state. Further, after the jackpot, two rounds of probability variation jackpots (so-called sudden probability variation jackpots, hereinafter referred to as “surprise probability jackpots”) for shifting to the probability variation gaming state may be provided.

  The number of rounds per jackpot is not limited to the number of rounds described above, and may be any number of rounds. Further, each jackpot may be a jackpot of the same number of rounds (for example, seven rounds). In this case, the opening times for opening the special winning opening 109 per round are set to be different. For example, the opening time per round is 30 seconds for the above probability variation jackpot and normal jackpot. On the other hand, the opening time per round is about 0.1 seconds for the latent hit or the sudden hit big hit.

  The probability variation gaming state is a gaming state in which the tulip gaming support (hereinafter referred to as “electric chew support”) provided in the start winning opening 105 is added to the above high probability state (big hit probability 1/28). Here, the electric chew support is, for example, by opening the start winning opening 105 larger than usual for a certain time or increasing the frequency of opening the start winning opening 105, so that the electric chew support is not provided. This is a function for increasing the chances of winning the winning prize opening 105. The probability variation gaming state is continued until a predetermined probability variation termination condition is satisfied. For example, in the present embodiment, winning the jackpot (that is, shifting to the jackpot state) is a probability change termination condition.

  The latent probability changing gaming state is a gaming state in which no electric chew support is given to the above high probability state (big hit probability 1/28). The latent probability changing game state is continued until a predetermined latent probability changing end condition is satisfied. For example, in the present embodiment, winning the jackpot (that is, shifting to the jackpot state) is the latent probability change end condition.

  The short-time gaming state is a gaming state in which electric chew support is added to the low probability state (big hit probability 1/280). The short-time gaming state is continued until a predetermined short-time end condition is satisfied. For example, in the present embodiment, a predetermined number of times (for example, 100 times) symbol variation is a short-time end condition. When the short-time end condition is satisfied, the gaming machine shifts to the normal gaming state. If the jackpot is won before the short-time end condition is satisfied, the gaming machine shifts to the jackpot state.

  The normal gaming state is a gaming state in which no electric chew support is given to the low probability state (big hit probability 1/280). That is, the normal gaming state is not provided with electric chew support like the latent probability changing gaming state, and the only difference is the jackpot probability of 1/280. Since the jackpot probability is an internal probability of the gaming machine, the player cannot visually recognize it. Therefore, the gaming machine according to the present embodiment performs the same effects in the normal gaming state and the latent probability changing gaming state (aligns the appearance), so that the player cannot determine which gaming state is that. ing.

(Functional configuration of gaming machine)
Next, a functional configuration of the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described. FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention. 5, the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention includes a receiving unit 501, a detecting unit 502, an interlock control unit 503, a display control unit 504, and a reel control unit 505. The functions of the units 501 to 505 can be realized by the effect control unit 302.

  The receiving unit 501 receives a command transmitted from the main control unit (main control board) 301. The receiving unit 501 receives various commands transmitted from the main control unit (main control board) 301 such as a jackpot command, a reach command, and a gaming state command. The jackpot command can be a command indicating whether it is a jackpot or lose, and the contents of the instruction can be determined by a jackpot determination random number acquired at the time of starting winning. The reach command can be a command indicating the presence or absence of reach production, and the contents of the instruction can be determined by the reach random number acquired at the time of starting winning. The gaming state command can be a command indicating a gaming state, and the content of the instruction can be determined by the gaming state being executed.

  The detection unit 502 detects whether the reception unit 501 has received a command and outputs the detection result to the interlock control unit 503. When detecting that the receiving unit 501 has received a command, the detecting unit 502 determines the type of the detected command, and outputs a signal corresponding to the determined type of command to the interlock control unit 503.

  Specifically, for example, if the detection unit 502 determines that the jackpot command received by the reception unit 501 is a command indicating a jackpot, the detection unit 502 outputs a command instructing execution of the jackpot effect to the interlock control unit 503. In addition, for example, when the detection unit 502 determines that the reach command received by the receiving unit 501 is a reach command indicating the presence of the reach effect, for example, the command for instructing execution of the effect including the reach effect is controlled in conjunction with the detection command. Output to the unit 503.

  The interlock control unit 503 receives the detection result from the detection unit 502, that is, the command output from the detection unit 502, and outputs a drive control signal according to the received command to the display control unit 504 and the reel control unit 505, respectively. For example, when the interlock control unit 503 receives a command for instructing execution of the jackpot effect, the display control unit 504 outputs a signal for instructing display of the effect image in accordance with the position of the reel 203 and the stop timing of each of the small reels 203a to 203i. And a signal for instructing the reel 203 to stop at the outcome indicating the big hit.

  In addition, when the interlock control unit 503 receives a command instructing execution of a loss effect (that is, a loss without reach effect), for example, using a lottery table that defines the transition probability to each effect mode on the display screen, A lottery process (lottery process) for performing a lottery for switching the production mode is performed. In this lottery process, the interlock control unit 503 moves to each effect mode in the case of a high probability state such as a latent probability changing game state and the case of a low probability state such as a normal game state based on the game state command. The lottery is performed using lottery tables having different transition probabilities.

  In this lottery process, the interlock control unit 503 may also use information on the current effect mode. For example, based on the gaming state command and the current performance mode, the interlocking control unit 503 determines whether or not a high probability state such as a latent probability changing gaming state and a low probability state such as a normal gaming state. A lottery is performed using a lottery table with different probabilities of transition to the production mode.

  Then, the interlock control unit 503 switches the effect mode based on the lottery result of the lottery process, and outputs a signal instructing display of the effect image corresponding to the effect mode to be switched to the display control unit 504. . As a result, in the gaming machine, the easy-to-shift performance mode differs between a high probability state such as a latent probability changing gaming state and a low probability state such as a normal gaming state. By switching the effect mode, it is possible to suggest a degree of expectation that is a high probability state such as a latent probability changing game state.

  The display control unit 504 receives the signal output from the interlock control unit 503, and controls the display unit 104 so that the effect image according to the received signal is displayed on the display unit 104. The display control unit 504 controls the display unit 104 so that an effect image in accordance with the rotation state and stop timing of each of the small reels 203a to 203i is displayed on the display unit 104. The display unit 104 operates according to the control of the display control unit 504.

  The display control unit 504 of this embodiment controls the transmittance of the display unit 104 so that all or a part of the reel 203 can be viewed through the display unit 104, and all of the reels 203 that can be viewed through the display unit 104. Alternatively, an image that seems to stop or suppress a part of the rotation is displayed on the reel 203 on the display unit 104. Alternatively, the display control unit 504 may display an image that appears to stop or suppress the rotation of all or part of the reel 203 that can be seen through in the vicinity of the reel 203.

  The reel control unit 505 receives the signal output from the interlock control unit 503, and controls the rotation operation of the small reels 203a to 203i in the reel 203 according to the received signal. Specifically, the reel control unit 505 controls the rotation operation of each of the small reels 203a to 203i by giving a pulse signal to a motor provided for each of the small reels 203a to 203i, for example.

  The reel control unit 505 controls the rotation operation of each of the small reels 203a to 203i so that the small reels 203a to 203i stop in a predetermined order after all the small reels 203a to 203i are simultaneously rotated. . The symbol shown on the reel 203 when all the small reels 203a to 203i are stopped is a symbol determined by the above-described random number of the variation pattern. In addition, the reel control unit 505 controls the rotation operation of each of the small reels 203a to 203i so that the small reels 203a to 203i rotate in a predetermined rotation direction at a predetermined rotation speed. The reel 203 operates according to the control of the reel control unit 505.

  Control of the display control unit 504 and the reel control unit 505 is not limited to that performed via the interlock control unit 503. For example, when the presentation only is performed, the display control unit 504 may control the display unit 104 alone. Further, for example, when the production is performed only by the fluctuation of the reel 203, the reel control unit 505 may control the rotation operation of the reel 203 independently.

  In the present embodiment, the symbol indicating the determination result of the jackpot determination is expressed using the physical reel 203, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the display control unit 504 displays the three rows of symbol images so as to move from the top to the bottom of the display unit 104, and then stops and displays these symbol images in a combination indicating the determination result of the jackpot determination. May be. In this case, the reel control unit 505 and the reel 203 are not necessary.

(Contents of game machines)
Next, the contents of the effects of the gaming machine will be described. The effect of the gaming machine according to the present embodiment is based on, for example, a story in which the main character (player) subjugates the evil demon king. This game machine departs on a journey where the hero defeats the Demon King from the dwarf country (dwarf stage). After that, the hero passes through the gate of the Demon World (Gate Stage) to enter the Demon World where the Demon King lives. The hero who entered the Devil world defeats the Demon Lord's hero (Dragon Stage), and proceeds with the game aiming to reach the castle of the Demon King (Devil King Stage). Then, at the end of a long journey, the confrontation with the Demon King will be a big hit if the Demon King is successfully defeated.

  FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing an outline of the effect mode of the gaming machine of the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 6, the gaming machine of the present embodiment is specifically a “dwarf stage” that assumes a dwarf country in accordance with the above story, and a “gate” that assumes a gate of a demon world. The stage will be performed using multiple production modes (stages): “Dragon Stage”, which assumes a battle with the Demon Lord ’s hero, and “Devil Stage”, which assumes a battle with the Demon King.

  These production modes have, for example, a hierarchical structure, and the degree of expectation increases stepwise as the production mode is closer to the “Maou Stage” in FIG. 6. Here, the degree of expectation refers to the degree to which a player can be expected to be in a high probability state (probability variation game state or latent probability variation game state).

  Specifically, “Devil King Stage” is a production mode in which it is determined that the state is in a high probability state (probability game state or latent probability variation game state) (transition only in the high probability state). “Dragon Stage”> “Gate Stage”> “Dwarf Stage”. The gaming machine selects one effect mode from the plurality of effect modes and performs an effect corresponding to the effect mode. The gaming machine displays, for example, an effect image including a background image (for example, a dragon background image for a dragon stage) corresponding to the selected effect mode on the display unit 104.

  The gaming machine can be switched to an effect mode adjacent to the current effect mode. The gaming machine switches to “gate stage” when the current production mode is “dwarf stage”, for example (arrow 601 in FIG. 6). Further, the gaming machine switches to the “dwarf stage” (arrow 602 in FIG. 6) or “dragon stage” when the current production mode is “gate stage”, for example (603 in FIG. 6). Arrow). Further, the gaming machine switches to the “gatekeeper stage” (arrow 604 in FIG. 6) or “devil stage” (arrow 605 in FIG. 6) when the current production mode is “Dragon Stage”, for example. ). When switching to the “Demon King Stage”, the gaming machine does not switch the production mode until the next big hit. In this manner, the effect of switching the effect mode is hereinafter referred to as “stage transition effect”.

  The gaming machine performs the stage transition effect (that is, the effect mode switching) at an arbitrary timing. Here, the arbitrary timing can be, for example, a stage transition effect execution lottery for determining whether or not to perform a stage transition effect every time the symbol is changed once, and a time when the lottery is won.

  Further, the gaming machine performs stage transition effects even when the specified number of symbols has changed from the previous stage transition effects. Specifically, the gaming machine counts the number of times the symbols have changed since the stage transition effect is performed, and when this number reaches a specified number (for example, 50 times), it is defined from the previous stage transition effect. Stage transition effect is performed at the timing when the number of symbols is changed. Here, the manufacturer of the gaming machine can arbitrarily set the specified number of times, for example. In addition to this, the gaming machine may perform stage transition effects at the end of the jackpot state or at the end of the short-time gaming state, for example.

(Game machine processing procedure)
Next, the processing procedure of the gaming machine when producing the above contents will be described. FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure of the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention. The processing shown in FIG. 7 is executed by the effect control unit (effect control board) 302 in a state where the power of the gaming machine is turned on, predetermined start-up processing and the like are completed, and a normal game can be performed.

  In the flowchart shown in FIG. 7, first, the effect control unit 302 stands by until there is a start winning based on the output signal from the main control unit 301 (step S701: No). When there is a start winning (step S701: Yes), the effect control unit 302 determines whether to execute a reach effect (step S702). In step S702, the effect control unit 302 determines that the reach effect is to be executed, for example, when the jackpot determination random number acquired at the time of starting winning matches the jackpot value or when the reach random number indicating the presence of the reach effect is acquired.

  When it is determined in step S702 that the reach effect is not executed (step S702: No), the effect control unit 302 performs a stage transition effect execution lottery (step S703). In step S703, the effect control unit 302 performs stage transition effect execution lottery based on, for example, a predetermined random number for execution lottery acquired immediately before the stage shift effect execution lottery and the execution lottery table. At this time, if the value of the random number for execution lottery is a predetermined value, the stage transition effect is executed.

  Thereafter, based on the lottery result of the stage transition effect execution lottery, it is determined whether to execute the stage transition effect (whether the stage transition effect execution lottery has been won) (step S704). When it is determined in step S704 that the stage transition effect is to be executed (step S704: Yes), the effect control unit 302 uses the transition destination lottery table in which the probability of transition to each effect mode is set to change the effect mode. A lottery process for switching (hereinafter referred to as “transfer destination lottery”) is performed (step S705).

  In step S705, the effect control unit 302 determines a game state (for example, latent probability changing game state) based on, for example, a game state command from the main control unit 301, and this game state and the current effect mode (for example, “dwarf stage”). Based on the above, the transfer destination lottery is performed using the lottery table set for each combination of the gaming state and the production mode.

  The transfer destination lottery table will be described later with reference to FIGS. 8-1, 8-2, and 8-3. For example, the current production mode is “gate stage” in a high probability state such as a latent probability changing game state. The lottery table used in this case has a higher probability of transition to the “Dragon Stage” than the lottery table used when the current performance mode is “Gate Stage” in a low probability state such as a normal gaming state.

  For example, the lottery table used when the current performance mode is “gate stage” in the high probability state, and the lottery table used when the current performance mode is “gate stage” in the low probability state such as the normal gaming state. The probability of transition to the “dwarf stage” is set lower. As a result, when the current production mode is “Gate Stage”, it is easy to shift to “Dragon Stage” if it is a high probability state, and to “Dwarf Stage” if it is a low probability state. Yes.

  Then, based on the lottery result of the transfer destination lottery, the effect control unit 302 determines the transfer destination effect mode (step S706), and executes the stage transition effect that switches to the transfer destination effect mode (step S707). When executing the stage transition effect, the effect control unit 302 causes the display unit 104 to display an effect image representing the stage transition effect, rotates the reel 203, and stops at a predetermined loss (FIGS. 9-1 to 9-). 4). Thereafter, the effect control unit 302 resets the number of times the symbols have been changed from the stage transition effect execution time to 0 (step S708), and ends the series of processes.

  If it is determined in step S704 that the stage transition effect is not to be executed (step S704: No), the effect control unit 302 determines that the number of times the symbol has been changed from the previous stage transition effect is the specified number of times ( It is determined whether or not (for example, 50 times) (step S709). Here, the manufacturer of the gaming machine can arbitrarily set the specified number of times, for example.

  When it is determined in step S709 that the specified number of times has been reached (step S709: Yes), the production control unit 302 proceeds to step S705 and performs a transfer destination lottery. If it is determined in step S709 that the specified number of times has not been reached (step S709: No), the effect control unit 302 increments the number of times the symbol has been changed from the previous stage transition effect execution by +1 ( Step S710), a predetermined loss effect is executed (Step S711), and the series of processes is terminated.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S702 that the reach effect is to be executed (step S702: Yes), the effect control unit 302 increments the number of times the symbol has been changed from the previous stage transition effect execution by +1 ( Step S712), for example, the content of the reach effect is determined based on the fluctuation pattern random number, and this reach effect is executed (step S713). Then, after this reach production, it is determined whether or not a big hit has been made (step S714).

  In step S714, for example, when the jackpot determination random number obtained at the time of starting winning matches the jackpot value is determined to be a jackpot. Alternatively, for example, it can be determined that a big hit is made by determining whether or not the outcome indicated by the stopped reel 203 is a big hit.

  If it is a big hit in step S714 (step S714: Yes), a big hit round effect is executed (step S715), and a series of processes is terminated. If it is not a big hit (step S714: No), a series of processing is ended as it is.

  In this way, the gaming machine performs the stage transition effect based on the lottery result of the stage transition effect execution lottery, but when the number of times the symbols have changed since the previous stage transition effect execution becomes the specified number of times, the stage transition effect Regardless of the lottery result of the execution lottery, stage transition effects will be performed. Therefore, even if the stage transition effect execution lottery continues, the stage effect is executed at a predetermined frequency, so that the same effect mode does not last for a long time.

(An example of sorting the lottery results of the destination lottery)
Next, the contents of the migration destination lottery table will be described. FIG. 8A is an explanatory diagram (part 1) of the contents of the transfer destination lottery table. FIG. 8-2 is an explanatory diagram (part 2) of the contents of the transfer destination lottery table. FIG. 8C is an explanatory diagram (part 3) of the contents of the transfer destination lottery table.

  A plurality of transfer destination lottery tables are provided, and the effect control unit 302 selects a transfer destination lottery table corresponding to the gaming state and the current effect mode, and uses this transfer destination lottery table to select the transfer destination lottery table. Do it. For example, in the present embodiment, (1) a table for a high probability state “dwarf stage”, (2) a table for a low probability state “dwarf stage”, (3) a table for a high probability state “gate stage”, ( There are six destination lottery tables: 4) a table for low probability state “gate stage”, (5) a table for high probability state “dragon stage”, and (6) a table for low probability state “dragon stage”. .

  FIG. 8A shows the contents of the transfer destination lottery table when the current production mode is “dwarf stage”. A column denoted by reference numeral 810 in FIG. 8A indicates the contents of (1) the table for the high probability state “dwarf stage”, and a column denoted by reference numeral 820 in FIG. The contents of the “person stage” table are shown.

  As shown in the column of reference numeral 810, in the “dwarf stage”, in the case of a high probability state, the transfer destination allocation is 60% for the “gate stage” and 40% for the “dwarf stage”. On the other hand, as shown in the column of reference numeral 820, in the case of the low-probability state, the “destination stage” is 40% for “gate stage” and 60% for “dwarf stage”. That is, when the transfer destination lottery is performed in the “child stage”, the probability of shifting to the “gate stage” is set higher in the high probability state than in the low probability state.

  FIG. 8-2 shows the contents of the transfer destination lottery table when the current effect mode is “gate stage”. The column indicated by reference numeral 830 in FIG. 8-2 indicates the contents of the table for (3) high probability state “gate stage”, and the column indicated by reference numeral 840 in FIG. 8-2 indicates (4) low probability state “gate stage”. "Shows the contents of the table.

  As shown in the row of reference numeral 830, in the “gate stage”, the transfer destinations in the case of a high probability state are “dragon stage” 30%, “gate stage” 50%, “dwarf stage” 20%. On the other hand, as shown in the row of reference numeral 840, the transfer destination distribution in the low probability state is 10% for the “Dragon Stage”, 40% for the “Gate Stage”, and 50% for the “Child Stage”. ing. That is, when the transfer destination lottery is performed in the “gate stage”, the probability of shifting to the “dragon stage” is set higher in the high probability state than in the low probability state.

  FIG. 8-3 shows the contents of the transfer destination lottery table when the current production mode is “Dragon Stage”. The column indicated by reference numeral 850 in FIG. 8-3 shows the contents of the table for (5) high probability state “dragon stage”, and the column indicated by reference numeral 860 in FIG. 8-3 is (6) low probability state “dragon stage”. "Shows the contents of the table.

  As shown in the row of reference numeral 850, in the “Dragon Stage”, the transfer destinations in the high probability state are 20% for the “Demon King Stage”, 60% for the “Dragon Stage”, and 20 for the “Gate Stage”. %. On the other hand, as shown in the row of reference numeral 860, in the case of the low probability state, the transition destination is 0% for the “Devil Stage”, 20% for the “Dragon Stage”, and 80% for the “Gate Stage”. Yes. That is, when the destination lottery is performed at “Dragon Stage”, the probability of transitioning to “Dragon Stage” (ie, the probability of staying at “Dragon Stage”) is lower when the probability is higher. It is set higher than when. In addition, the transition to the “Devil King Stage” is made only in a high probability state.

  In this way, in the gaming machine of the present embodiment, when the transition destination lottery is performed, if the gaming state is a high probability state, it shifts to the “Dragon Stage” or “Gate Stage” rather than the low probability state. It is easy to do. In addition, it is easier to stay on those stages after the transition. Therefore, the player's expectation level for the high probability state is high in these stages, and when the player moves or stays in these stages, the player can have a sense of expectation that “it may be a high probability state”.

  In addition, when the transition destination lottery is performed in the “gate stage” in the gaming machine, if it is in the high probability state, the transition is made from the “gate stage” to the “dwarf stage” (effect mode with low expectation). The probability of transition from “Gate Stage” to “Dragon Stage” (highly expected production mode) is higher. On the other hand, in the case of a low probability state such as a normal gaming state, the “gate stage” to the “dwarf stage” (rather than the transition from the “gate stage” to the “dragon stage” (highly expected production mode) ( There is a high probability of switching to a production mode with low expectation.

  For this reason, the “gate stage” is a so-called gateway mode for transitioning to a highly expected performance mode. For this reason, the gaming machine can give a sense of accomplishment and a sense of expectation to a player who has passed the “gate stage” and transitioned to the “dragon stage”.

  In addition, in the above description, the stage transition effect performed when winning the stage transition effect execution lottery has been described as an example. However, the stage transition effect is a big hit (when a big hit command is detected, or a pre-read is held on hold) This may be done when a big hit is detected. For example, when a big win is won in the “dwarf stage”, a stage transition effect that shifts to the “dragon stage” is executed to switch the effect mode. Then, after switching the production mode, it develops to reach production and makes a big hit.

  Thus, in the stage transition effect when a big hit occurs, for example, the player can dare to switch to a predetermined effect mode or to an effect mode that contradicts a predetermined rule (adjacent effect mode). It gives a sense of incongruity and can attract players' interest.

(Specific examples of stage transition effects)
Next, specific examples of stage transition effects will be described. FIG. 9A is an explanatory diagram (part 1) illustrating a specific effect example of the stage transition effect. FIG. 9-2 is an explanatory diagram (part 2) of a specific effect example of the stage transition effect. FIG. 9C is an explanatory diagram (part 3) of a specific effect example of the stage transition effect. 9-4 is explanatory drawing (the 4) which shows the specific effect example of a stage transition effect. FIG. 9A, FIG. 9B, FIG. 9C, and FIG. 9D show the display unit 104 at the stage transition stage.

  9A, in the stage transition effect, the gaming machine first rotates all the small reels 203a to 203i in the reel 203, and the display unit 104 separates the small reels 203a to 203i. Display an image (background image). This frame-like image is an image corresponding to the effect mode being executed. In the example illustrated in FIG. 9A, since the effect mode being executed is “dwarf stage”, an image of “dwarf” is displayed.

  Subsequently, the gaming machine lowers the brightness of the entire display unit 104 (lowers the transmittance), shields the reels 203 (all small reels 203a to 203i), and displays an image indicating that the stage shift is performed. It is displayed on the whole part 104 (FIG. 9-2). In FIG. 9-2, an image of the gate is displayed as an image indicating that the stage shift is performed. Thus, the player is informed that the stage transition effect is to be performed.

  Thereafter, an image is displayed such that the gate is gradually opened. At this time, the reel 203 and the frame-shaped image corresponding to the effect mode of the switching destination are gradually displayed as the gate opens. In the example illustrated in FIG. 9C, since the effect mode being executed has shifted to “gate stage”, an image of “gate” is displayed. This guides the player to the effect mode (the transition destination stage) of the switching destination, and the stage transition effect is completed.

  When the stage transition effect is completed, the reels 203 (small reels 203a to 203i) are sequentially stopped in a predetermined order (FIGS. 9-4). Also, at this time, for example, an image that makes the stopped small reels 203a to 203i stand out by increasing the lightness (increasing the transmittance) of the portion overlapping the stopped (or stopped) small reels 203a to 203i. It may be displayed.

  Further, for example, the lightness of the portion overlapping with the reel 203 (small reels 203a to 203i) for which the losing symbol has already been determined is lowered (ie, the transmittance is lowered), so that the small reels 203a to 203i for which the losing symbol has been determined are not conspicuous. Such an image may be displayed.

  Furthermore, an image may be displayed on the display unit 104 to make it easier for the player to understand what effect mode switching (stage transition) has occurred in the stage transition effect. FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram (part 5) illustrating a specific effect example of the stage transition effect. As shown in FIG. 10, in the present embodiment, a map image is displayed on the display unit 104 in order to make it easier for the player to know what effect mode switching (stage transition) has occurred.

  On the map represented by this map image, points (or areas) corresponding to each effect mode are plotted. These points (or regions) are connected by line images (for example, reference numerals 1001 and 1002) representing roads. The effect modes connected by this line image indicate that they can be shifted to each other (adjacent effect modes).

  For example, in FIG. 10, “dwarf stage” and “gate stage” are connected by a line image 1001. For this reason, it shows that a transition is possible between the “dwarf stage” and the “gate stage”. On the other hand, the “dwarf stage” and the “demon king stage” are not connected by a line image. For this reason, it shows that the transition between “dwarf stage” and “gate stage” is not possible.

  When the effect mode is switched, a line image that connects the effect mode before switching (for example, “dwarf stage”) and the effect mode after switching (for example, “gate stage”) is replaced with another line image. Compare and highlight. For example, in FIG. 10, the line image 1001 connecting the “dwarf stage” and the “gate stage” is displayed thicker than the other line image 1002 connecting the “dragon stage” and the “devil stage”. This indicates that there has been a transition from a “dwarf stage” to a “gate stage” or a transition from a “gate stage” to a “dwarf stage”.

  By referring to the map image of FIG. 10, the player can know what effect modes have been switched and what other effect modes are available.

  Further, in the above example, each layer having a hierarchical structure is configured by one effect mode, but a plurality of effect modes (a plurality of effect modes having the same expectation degree) may be provided in each layer. FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram (part 6) illustrating a specific effect example of the stage transition effect.

  In FIG. 11, in the effect mode at the bottom layer, in addition to the above “dwarf stage”, “mermaid stage” and “giant stage” are provided. In addition, in the effect mode that is one level above the effect mode in the lowermost layer, a “first gate stage” and a “second gate stage” are provided instead of the “gate stage” described above. These “dwarf stage”, “mermaid stage” and “giant stage” have the same degree of expectation, and have the same degree of expectation as “first gate stage” and “second gate stage”.

  In this way, a plurality of effect modes can be provided in each layer, and the effect modes in each layer can be switched. This makes it possible to combine the production mode switching (vertical direction) that represents the degree of expectation with the production mode switching (horizontal direction) within the hierarchy to improve the gaming machine's preference. A variety of patterns can be provided to further enhance the fun of the gaming machine.

  As described above, the gaming machine according to this embodiment can indicate to the player the degree of expectation for the latent probability changing state by switching the effect mode. As a result, the player can guess the gaming state by paying attention to the change of the production mode, so that the gaming machine increases the player's expectation and does not bore the player who plays for a long time. Can be entertained.

  In addition, the gaming machine of this embodiment can take a production mode other than “Devil King Stage” even in a high probability state (probability variation game state, latent probability variation game state). Thereby, it can prevent that the game at the time of a high-probability state turns into a rut. Specifically, if the player is convinced that he has transitioned to a high probability state, he will feel joy in this transition, but it will be like a digestive game until the subsequent game wins. . For this reason, even if the gaming machine is in a high probability state, by making it possible to take a production mode other than the “Demon King Stage”, the gaming machine does not confident that the player is in a high probability state. By staying within the speculation range of “There is a possibility of a low probability state”, it is possible to prevent the game in the high probability state from becoming rutted, and the game without boring the player who plays for a long time Can be entertained.

  Furthermore, the gaming machine of this embodiment is configured to perform a transfer destination lottery using a lottery table that determines the probability of transition to each production mode at a predetermined timing. Here, the transition probability to each effect mode is set to be different depending on the gaming state. For example, in the case of a high probability state such as a latent probability changing game state, a transfer destination lottery is performed using a lottery table set with a high transfer probability to “Dragon Stage”. On the other hand, in the case of a low probability state such as a normal gaming state, a transfer destination lottery is performed using a lottery table in which the transfer probability to the “dwarf stage” is set high.

  For this reason, in the transfer destination lottery, it is possible to make a difference between the production mode that easily shifts in the high probability state and the production mode that easily shifts in the low probability state. As a result, the production mode that is likely to shift in the high probability state can be changed to the production mode that has a high expectation level, and the production mode that is likely to transition in the low probability state can be designated as a production mode with a low expectation level When the mode is switched to the production mode, it is possible to increase the player's expectation and entertain the game without boring the player who plays for a long time.

  Further, the gaming machine of this embodiment is configured to execute the stage transition effect when the specified number of symbols has changed from the previous stage transition effect. Thereby, it is possible to prevent the effect from becoming unsatisfactory due to the same effect mode lasting for a long time, and to enjoy the game without boring the player who plays for a long time.

  In the gaming machine of this embodiment, the plurality of effect modes have a hierarchical structure, and the effect modes are switched between adjacent effect modes. Thereby, since it can switch to the production mode with high expectation level step by step, the player's expectation can be increased step by step, and the game can be enjoyed without boring the player.

  Further, in the gaming machine of this embodiment, when a big hit occurs, the game machine is switched to a specific production mode (for example, “Dragon Stage”) without performing the transfer destination lottery. For example, at this time, the effect mode is switched that contradicts the above rule (switching to the adjacent effect mode). This makes it possible to show the player how to change the production mode different from the usual, giving the player a sense of incongruity, attracting the player's interest, increasing the player's expectation, and playing for a long time The game can be entertained without boring the player.

  As described above, according to the presentation method of the gaming machine according to the present invention, even in the latent probability changing game state in which it is not clearly indicated whether or not the probability changing gaming state is specified while suppressing the mannerism in the probability changing gaming state. Since the player's expectation for the probable gaming state can be increased, the game can be enjoyed without boring the player who plays for a long time.

  Furthermore, according to the game machine production method according to the present invention, the production mode can be switched at a predetermined frequency, so that the production can be prevented from being monotonous and the game can be enjoyed without boring the player who plays for a long time. be able to.

  Note that the game machine presentation method described in the present embodiment can be realized by executing a program prepared in advance on a computer such as an effect control board. This program is recorded on a computer-readable recording medium such as a hard disk, a flexible disk, a CD-ROM, an MO, and a DVD, and is executed by being read from the recording medium by the computer. The program may be a medium that can be distributed via a network such as the Internet.

It is explanatory drawing (the 1) which shows the basic composition of the game machine of embodiment concerning this invention. It is explanatory drawing (the 2) which shows the basic composition of the game machine of embodiment concerning this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the internal structure of the control part of a game machine. It is explanatory drawing which shows the game state which the game machine of this Embodiment can take. It is a block diagram which shows the functional structure of the game machine of embodiment concerning this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the outline | summary of the production mode of the gaming machine of this embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the process sequence of the game machine of embodiment concerning this invention. It is explanatory drawing (the 1) which shows the content of the transfer destination lottery table. It is explanatory drawing (the 2) which shows the content of the transfer destination lottery table. It is explanatory drawing (the 3) which shows the content of the transfer destination lottery table. It is explanatory drawing (the 1) which shows the specific example of a stage transition effect. It is explanatory drawing (the 2) which shows the specific example of a stage transition effect. It is explanatory drawing (the 3) which shows the specific example of a stage transition effect. It is explanatory drawing (the 4) which shows the specific example of a stage transition effect. It is explanatory drawing (the 5) which shows the specific example of a stage transition effect. It is explanatory drawing (the 6) which shows the specific example of a stage transition effect.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 104 Display part 201 Liquid crystal display panel 202 Liquid crystal shutter 203 Reel 301 Main control part 302 Effect control part 303 Prize ball control part 501 Reception part 502 Detection part 503 Interlocking control part 504 Display control part 505 Reel control part

Claims (7)

A lottery process for performing a lottery for switching the production mode using a lottery table that determines the probability of transition to each production mode on the display screen when the symbol is changed a specified number of times since the last production mode was changed. Including
The lottery processing step performs a lottery using a lottery table having different transition probabilities to each effect mode in the latent probability changing game state and in the normal game state, respectively. Direction method.   The production mode is composed of at least three types of production modes, the first production mode is shifted to the second production mode, and the first production mode and the third production mode are switched from the second production mode. The game machine effect method according to claim 1, further comprising: shifting to the second effect mode from the third effect mode.   In the lottery table, when the game mode is a latent probability changing game state, the probability of shifting from the second effect mode to the third effect mode rather than shifting from the second effect mode to the first effect mode. And in the normal gaming state, the probability of shifting from the second effect mode to the first effect mode is increased rather than shifting from the second effect mode to the third effect mode. The game machine presentation method according to claim 2, wherein:   In the lottery table, the probability of transition from the second performance mode to the first performance mode is set to be higher in the normal gaming state than in the latent probability changing gaming state, and the first 4. The gaming machine according to claim 2, wherein the probability of transition from the second effect mode to the third effect mode is set so that the latent probability changing game state is higher than the normal game state. Directing method.   3. The lottery table, wherein the probability of transition from the first effect mode to the second effect mode is set to be higher in the latent probability changing game state than in the normal game state. The production method of the gaming machine according to any one of?   3. The lottery table, wherein the probability of transition from the third effect mode to the second effect mode is set so that the normal game state is higher than the latent probability changing game state. The production method of the gaming machine according to any one of?   3. When a big hit occurs during the production in the first production mode or the second production mode, the system shifts to the third production mode without performing the lottery process. 6. The game machine production method according to any one of 6 above.

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