JP2011004825A - Gaming machine implementing free game and control method for the same - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a gaming machine for enhancing interest of a player in a game and to provide a control method for the same.SOLUTION: In the gaming machine, a free game is implemented when prescribed conditions are met in a normal game. The prescribed conditions can also be met in the free game. The probability that the prescribed conditions are met during the free game is one according to a stop mode (for example, the number of trigger symbols stop-displayed in an official display mode) of a trigger symbol stop-displayed in the normal game which triggers start of the free game. For example, the larger the number of trigger symbols stop-displayed in the official display mode is, the higher the probability that retrigger is met becomes.

Description

The present invention relates to a gaming machine that executes a free game and a control method thereof.

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, a slot machine is known in which a plurality of types of symbols are scroll-displayed, stopped and displayed, and a game medium (for example, coins) is given based on the combination of the stopped-displayed symbols. Such a slot machine is disclosed in Patent Documents 1 to 3, for example.

Among such slot machines, there is a slot machine that executes a free game when a predetermined condition is satisfied during the game (for example, a specific symbol is stopped and displayed in the slot machine game) (for example, And Patent Documents 4 to 6). A free game is a game that is played even if the game medium is not bet. For example, Patent Document 4 discloses a slot machine that plays a free game as a secondary game when a predetermined condition (symbols are in a specific arrangement) is established in a basic game.

US Pat. No. 6,960,133 US Pat. No. 6012983 US Pat. No. 6,093,102 Australian Patent Application Publication No. 1972901 US Pat. No. 6,913,532 US Pat. No. 6,491,584

Since a game can be played without consuming game media during the free game, the player generally plays the game with a strong expectation for the occurrence of the free game.
Therefore, the present inventor has come up with the idea that the player's interest and interest in the game can be increased by adding a new feature to the free game.

The present invention has been made in view of the above-described problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine capable of increasing the interest and interest of a player in a game, and a control method thereof.

The present invention provides a gaming machine having the following configuration.
(1) That is, the gaming machine can variably display a plurality of symbols including a trigger symbol that triggers the generation of a free game, which is a game that is played even if the game medium is not bet, and a normal symbol. A symbol display device.
The gaming machine includes a controller programmed to execute the following processes (A) to (C).
(A) After the game medium is betted, the symbol display device performs variable display of the plurality of symbols, and then performs stop display, and pays an amount of game medium corresponding to the stop-displayed symbols or a combination thereof. The process of running a normal game,
(B) In the normal game executed by the process (A), when a predetermined condition that the stop mode of the trigger symbol stopped and displayed is a predetermined stop mode is satisfied, A process of executing a free game in which the predetermined condition is established with a probability according to a stop mode; and
(C) When the predetermined condition is satisfied in the free game before the execution of the process (B) is completed, the process (B) is further executed, and then the free game is further executed.

According to the invention of (1), when a predetermined condition is satisfied in the normal game (for example, when three or more trigger symbols are stopped and displayed), the free game is executed. The predetermined condition can be established even in a free game. The establishment of a predetermined condition in the free game is also referred to as “retrigger is established” in this specification. The probability that a retrigger will be established during the free game is based on the stop mode of the trigger symbol that is stopped and displayed in the normal game that triggered the free game (for example, the number of trigger symbols that are stopped and displayed in the face-up display mode). Probability according to. For example, a case where the probability that a retrigger is established during a free game increases as the number of trigger symbols that are stopped and displayed in a face-up display mode increases.
When the retrigger is established, the game can be continued for a long period of time without betting the game medium. Therefore, the player normally expects the retrigger to be established during the free game. According to the invention of (1), since the probability that such retrigger is established is a probability according to the stop mode of the trigger symbol, not only the predetermined condition is established for the player, but also the trigger symbol It is also possible to have interest and interest in what kind of stop mode is displayed. And a big expectation can be given to the fact that the trigger symbol is stopped and displayed in such a stop mode that the probability that retrigger is established becomes high. This makes it possible to increase the player's interest and interest in the free game, and improve the fun of the game.

The present invention also provides a gaming machine having the following configuration.
(2) In other words, the gaming machine can variably display a plurality of symbols including a trigger symbol that triggers the generation of a free game, which is a game that is played even if the game medium is not bet, and a normal symbol. And a symbol display device capable of variably displaying the trigger symbol while changing the display mode.
The gaming machine includes a controller programmed to execute the following processes (A) to (D).
(A) After the game medium is betted, the symbol display device performs variable display of the plurality of symbols, and then performs stop display, and pays an amount of game medium corresponding to the stop-displayed symbols or a combination thereof. The process of running a normal game,
(B) In the base game executed by the process (A), when a predetermined condition that the stop mode of the trigger symbol stopped and displayed is a predetermined stop mode is satisfied, the display mode is changed while the display mode is changed. A process of stopping and displaying the trigger symbol in a specific display mode or other display mode after performing a change display of the trigger symbol,
(C) a process of executing a free game in which the predetermined condition is established with a probability corresponding to the number of trigger symbols stopped and displayed in the specific display mode by the process (B); and
(D) A process of further executing the free game after executing the process (C) if the predetermined condition is satisfied in the free game before the execution of the process (C) is completed.

According to the invention of (2), when a predetermined condition is satisfied in the normal game (for example, when three or more trigger symbols are stopped and displayed), the free game is executed. The predetermined condition can be established even in a free game. The establishment of a predetermined condition in the free game is also referred to as “retrigger is established” in this specification. The probability that a retrigger will be established during the free game is based on the stop mode of the trigger symbol that is stopped and displayed in the normal game that triggered the free game (for example, the number of trigger symbols that are stopped and displayed in the face-up display mode). Probability according to. For example, a case where the probability that a retrigger is established during a free game increases as the number of trigger symbols that are stopped and displayed in a face-up display mode increases.
When the retrigger is established, the game can be continued for a long period of time without betting the game medium. Therefore, the player normally expects the retrigger to be established during the free game. According to the invention of (2), since the probability that such retrigger is established is a probability corresponding to the stop mode of the trigger symbol, not only the predetermined condition is satisfied for the player, but also the trigger symbol It is also possible to have interest and interest in what kind of stop mode is displayed. And a big expectation can be given to the fact that the trigger symbol is stopped and displayed in such a stop mode that the probability that retrigger is established becomes high. This makes it possible to increase the player's interest and interest in the free game, and improve the fun of the game.

According to the invention of (2), when a predetermined condition is satisfied in the base game, the display mode is changed while changing the display mode (for example, the display mode is changed between the front display mode and the reverse display mode). The trigger symbol is displayed in a variable manner, and then the trigger symbol is stopped and displayed in a specific display mode (for example, a front-side display mode) or other display mode (for example, a reverse-side display mode). . The probability that the retrigger is established is a probability corresponding to the number of trigger symbols that are stopped and displayed in a specific display mode (for example, the display mode facing up). Therefore, the player can be greatly interested in how many trigger symbols are stopped and displayed in a specific display mode (for example, a display mode facing up).
According to the invention of (2), first, as a first stage, the occurrence of a free game is determined by establishing a predetermined condition in the stop display of a plurality of symbols. Subsequently, as a second stage, the probability that a retrigger will be established during the free game (hereinafter also referred to as a retrigger establishment probability) is determined based on the display mode of the stopped-displayed trigger symbol. In other words, during the normal game, the player can be expected to satisfy a predetermined condition first. After that, when a predetermined condition is satisfied, the number of trigger symbols that are stopped and displayed in a specific display mode becomes a number that increases the probability of retrigger establishment (for example, many trigger symbols are displayed face up. It can be expected to be stopped and displayed in a manner. In this way, the player's expectation can be increased step by step. The expectation that gradually increases makes it possible to promote the degree of excitement of the player with respect to the game, and the player can be immersed in the game.
Even if a predetermined condition is satisfied and the occurrence of a free game is determined, the probability of retrigger formation is low, and it is unfortunate for the player. Therefore, even after the predetermined condition is satisfied, the player can watch with a sense of tension as the trigger symbol stops and is displayed. Depending on whether the number of trigger symbols stopped and displayed in a specific display mode is such that the retrigger establishment probability is high or the retrigger establishment probability is low, the player may be pleased. , You can regret it. In this way, the player can experience various emotions through the game, so that the game can be fully enjoyed.

The gaming machine (1) preferably has the following configuration.
(3) That is, the symbol display device can scroll and display a symbol string composed of the plurality of symbols.
In addition, the processing (A) includes an amount corresponding to the stopped symbol or a combination thereof, after the game medium is bet, after the symbol display device performs scroll display of the symbol string, and then stops display. This is a process of executing a normal game that pays the game medium.
Further, the controller further includes (D) when the predetermined condition is satisfied in the normal game executed by the process (A), the trigger symbol that is stopped and displayed among the normal symbols constituting the symbol row. A process for replacing the number of normal symbols corresponding to the stop mode with the trigger symbol, or, among the trigger symbols constituting the symbol string, the number of trigger symbols corresponding to the stop mode of the trigger symbol stopped and displayed, This is a process of replacing with the normal symbol.
In the process (B), after the symbol string after the replacement in the process (D) is scrolled and displayed, the stop display is performed, and an amount of game media corresponding to the stopped display symbols or a combination thereof is paid. This is a process for executing a free game.

According to the invention of (3), when a predetermined condition is satisfied in the normal game, the normal symbol in the symbol string is replaced with the trigger symbol based on the stop mode of the trigger symbol,
The trigger symbol is replaced with a normal symbol. This increases or decreases the number of trigger symbols in the symbol string. In the free game, the symbol row after replacement is scrolled and the symbols are stopped and displayed, so if the number of trigger symbols is large, the retrigger establishment probability is high, and if the number of trigger symbols is small, The retrigger establishment probability is low. That is, as a result, the predetermined condition is established with a probability corresponding to the stop mode of the trigger symbol.
In this way, since the number of trigger symbols in the symbol sequence and the retrigger establishment probability correspond, the frequency of the trigger symbol appearing while scrolling is displayed. It is possible to have the player recognize the level of retrigger establishment probability in the game. In the free game, while watching the repeated scroll display, it is possible to strongly impress the player as to whether the retrigger establishment probability in the free game is high or low. As a result, in accordance with the player's impression regarding the level of the retrigger establishment probability, the player's expectation for the establishment of the retrigger can be varied. As a result, it is possible to make the player's emotions undulate and provide a game in which the player is less likely to get bored.

The present invention also provides a gaming machine control method having the following configuration.
(4) That is, the gaming machine control method includes the following steps (A) to (C).
(A) After a game medium is bet, a plurality of symbols including a trigger symbol that triggers the generation of a free game, which is a game that is played even if the game medium is not bet, and a normal symbol may be displayed variably. Performing a normal game in which a variable display of the plurality of symbols is performed by a possible symbol display device, a stop display is performed, and an amount of game media corresponding to the stopped display symbols or a combination thereof is paid;
(B) In the normal game executed in the step (A), when a predetermined condition that the stop mode of the trigger symbol stopped and displayed is a predetermined stop mode is satisfied, Executing a free game in which the predetermined condition is satisfied with a probability according to the stop mode; and
(C) A step of further executing the free game after executing the step (B) if the predetermined condition is satisfied in the free game before the execution of the step (B) is completed.

According to the invention of (4), when a predetermined condition is satisfied in the normal game (for example, when three or more trigger symbols are stopped and displayed), the free game is executed. The predetermined condition can be established even in a free game. The establishment of a predetermined condition in the free game is also referred to as “retrigger is established” in this specification. The probability that a retrigger will be established during the free game is based on the stop mode of the trigger symbol that is stopped and displayed in the normal game that triggered the free game (for example, the number of trigger symbols that are stopped and displayed in the face-up display mode). Probability according to. For example, a case where the probability that a retrigger is established during a free game increases as the number of trigger symbols that are stopped and displayed in a face-up display mode increases.
When the retrigger is established, the game can be continued for a long period of time without betting the game medium. Therefore, the player normally expects the retrigger to be established during the free game. According to the invention of (4), since the probability that such retrigger is established is a probability according to the stop mode of the trigger symbol, not only the predetermined condition is established for the player, but also the trigger symbol It is also possible to have interest and interest in what kind of stop mode is displayed. And a big expectation can be given to the fact that the trigger symbol is stopped and displayed in such a stop mode that the probability that retrigger is established becomes high. This makes it possible to increase the player's interest and interest in the free game, and improve the fun of the game.

According to the present invention, the player's interest in the game can be increased.

FIG. 20 is a view illustrating an exemplary image displayed on an upper image display panel provided in the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 18 is a view illustrating an exemplary image displayed on a lower image display panel included in the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 18 is a view illustrating an exemplary image displayed on a lower image display panel included in the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 18 is a view illustrating an exemplary image displayed on a lower image display panel included in the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 18 is a view illustrating an exemplary image displayed on a lower image display panel included in the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 18 is a view illustrating an exemplary image displayed on a lower image display panel included in the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 18 is a view illustrating an exemplary image displayed on a lower image display panel included in the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention. It is a figure which shows the trigger symbol increase number determination table. FIG. 18 is a view illustrating an exemplary image displayed on a lower image display panel included in the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4 is a view illustrating a function flow of the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention. 1 is a view illustrating a game system including a gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. 1 is a view illustrating an overall configuration of a gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. It is a figure which shows a symbol table. FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating an internal configuration of the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention. It is a figure which shows a symbol combination table. FIG. 10 is a view illustrating a flowchart of main control processing of the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a view illustrating a flowchart of coin insertion / start check processing of the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a view illustrating a flowchart of jackpot-related processing for the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a view illustrating a flowchart of insurance-related processing for the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a view illustrating a flowchart of symbol lottery processing for the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a view illustrating a flowchart of symbol display control processing of the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a view illustrating a flowchart of a payout amount determination process of the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a view illustrating a flowchart of insurance check processing for the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a view illustrating a flowchart of free game execution processing of the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a view illustrating a flowchart of retrigger establishment probability determination processing for the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention. It is a figure which shows a surface-oriented trigger symbol determination table. FIG. 10 is a view illustrating a flowchart of symbol table update processing of the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the symbol table after a symbol table update process. It is a figure which shows an example of the symbol table after a symbol table update process. FIG. 10 is a view illustrating a flowchart of insurance selection processing for the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention; It is a figure which shows the trigger symbol increase number determination table.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described.

First, the outline of the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 1 (FIGS. 1A to 1I).
FIG. 1A is a view illustrating an exemplary image displayed on the upper image display panel provided in the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention.
1B to 1G and FIG. 1I are diagrams illustrating examples of images displayed on the lower image display panel provided in the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 1H is a diagram illustrating a trigger symbol increase number determination table.

In the gaming machine 1 (see FIG. 4) according to the present embodiment, a slot machine game is played. In the slot machine game, on the video reels 3 (3a, 3b, 3c, 3d, and 3e) displayed on the lower image display panel 141 (see FIG. 4), a symbol row composed of a plurality of symbols is scroll-displayed. Thereafter, the game is displayed in a stopped state (see FIG. 1B), and coins corresponding to the symbols displayed in the stopped state are paid out. The plurality of symbols includes a trigger symbol 100 (see FIG. 1B) and a normal symbol. A normal symbol refers to a symbol other than the trigger symbol 100. The lower image display panel 141 corresponds to the symbol display device in the present invention.

In the present embodiment, a free game is generated when three or more trigger symbols are stopped and displayed (see message display area 201 in FIG. 1B). A free game is a game that is played even if a coin is not bet. Of the games played in the gaming machine 1, games other than free games are referred to as normal games in this specification.
“Stopping and displaying three or more trigger symbols” corresponds to a predetermined condition in the present invention.

As shown in the game explanation image 500 of FIG. 1A, in this embodiment, when three or more trigger symbols are stopped and displayed, the stopped and displayed trigger symbols are rotated (hereinafter also referred to as auto-rotation display). FIGS. 1C to 1D show this state.

FIG. 1C shows a state in which a total of four trigger symbols 100 are stopped and displayed on the respective video reels of the second video reel 3b to the fifth video reel 3e by the base game. That is, in the example shown in FIG. 1C, three or more trigger symbols 100 are stopped and displayed, and the predetermined condition in the present invention is satisfied. In the message display area 201, an image indicating that the start of the free game is determined is displayed.

FIG. 1D shows a state in which the trigger symbol 100 is rotated and displayed on the second video reel 3b to the fifth video reel 3e. Thus, in the gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment, the trigger symbol 100 is rotated and displayed when three or more trigger symbols 100 are stopped and displayed.
The rotation display of the trigger symbol 100 corresponds to the change display of the trigger symbol in the present invention.

Thereafter, the trigger symbol is stopped and displayed in the front display mode or the reverse display mode. This is shown in FIGS.
FIG. 1E shows a state in which the trigger symbol 100 that has been rotated and displayed on the second video reel 3b is stopped and displayed in a face-up display mode among the trigger symbols 100 that have been rotated and displayed.
FIG. 1F shows a state in which, among the trigger symbols 100 displayed in rotation, the trigger symbols 100 that have been displayed in rotation on the third video reel 3c are stopped and displayed in a face-up display mode.
Thus, in the gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment, the rotation display of the trigger symbol 100 is stopped and displayed one by one.

As shown in the game explanation image 500 of FIG. 1A and the message display areas 201 of FIGS. 1D to F, according to the present embodiment, the probability that a predetermined condition is established in the free game (retrigger establishment probability) The probability depends on the number of trigger symbols stopped and displayed in the manner (see the message display area 201 in FIGS. 1D to F). The establishment of a predetermined condition in the free game is also referred to as “retrigger is established” in this specification.
The face-up display mode corresponds to a specific display mode in the present invention.

FIG. 1G shows a state in which all the trigger symbols 100 that have been rotated on the second video reel 3b to the fifth video reel 3e are stopped and displayed in a face-up display mode.
In the message display area 201, an image indicating that a free game in which retrigger is established is executed with a relatively high probability is displayed in response to four trigger symbols being stopped and displayed in a face-up display mode. Yes.

In the present embodiment, the following processing is performed so that the retrigger establishment probability is a probability corresponding to the number of trigger symbols stopped and displayed in the face-up display mode.
That is, the number of trigger symbols present in the symbol string increases or decreases according to the number of trigger symbols stopped and displayed in the face-up display mode (hereinafter also referred to as face-up trigger symbols). As a result, free games with different retrigger establishment probabilities occur.

FIG. 1H is a diagram illustrating a trigger symbol increase number determination table.
In the trigger symbol increase count determination table, the trigger symbol increase count is set according to the number of face-up trigger symbols. For example, in the example shown in FIG. 1G, twelve trigger symbols increase due to the fact that four face-up trigger symbols are stopped and displayed. In the present embodiment, 12 trigger symbols are increased by replacing 12 normal symbols with trigger symbols in the symbol sequence (see FIG. 5) displayed on the fifth video reel 3e. (See FIG. 20A).

FIGS. 1B to 1G and I also show a state in which the free game number display unit 390 is displayed on the lower image display panel 141.
The number of free games that have occurred (hereinafter also referred to as the total number of free games) and the number of free games that have been executed (hereinafter also referred to as the number of executed free games) are displayed on the free game number display section 390. Is done.

FIG. 1I shows a state in which a plurality of symbols are scrolled and then stopped in a free game. In the present embodiment, in the free game, as in the normal game, a plurality of symbols including the trigger symbol 100 and the normal symbol are scroll-displayed on each video reel 3. In the example of FIG. 1I, three trigger symbols 100 are stopped and displayed, and retrigger is established. As shown in the message display area 201, when a retrigger is established during the free game, the remaining number of free games is added. Due to this, the total number of free games, which was 5 in FIG. 1G, is 10 in FIG. 1I.
In the present embodiment, the probability that such retrigger is established is determined based on the number of trigger symbols stopped and displayed in the face-up display mode.

The outline of the present embodiment has been described above with reference to FIGS. 1A to 1I.
1B to 1G and I also show that the credit amount display unit 400 is displayed on the lower image display panel 141. The credit number display unit 400 indicates the number of coins credited, the number of coins bet, and the number of coins to be paid out.
Hereinafter, this embodiment will be described in detail.

[Explanation of function flow diagram]
With reference to FIG. 2, a basic function of the gaming machine according to the present embodiment will be described.
FIG. 2 is a view illustrating a function flow of the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention.

<Coin insertion / start check>
First, the gaming machine checks whether or not the BET button has been pressed by the player, and subsequently checks whether or not the spin button has been pressed by the player.

<Symbol decision>
Next, when the spin button is pressed by the player, the gaming machine extracts a random number value for symbol determination and stops scrolling the symbol row in accordance with each of the plurality of video reels displayed on the display. The symbol to be displayed on the player is determined.

<Symbol display>
Next, the gaming machine starts scrolling the symbol column of each video reel, and stops scrolling so that the determined symbol is displayed on the player.

<Winning determination>
Next, when the scrolling of the symbol column of each video reel is stopped, the gaming machine determines whether or not the combination of symbols displayed on the player is related to winning.

<Payout>
Next, when the combination of symbols displayed on the player is a winning combination, the gaming machine gives the player a privilege according to the type of combination of symbols.
For example, when a combination of symbols related to coin payout is displayed, the gaming machine pays out to the player a number of coins corresponding to the symbol combination.

In the gaming machine, when three or more trigger symbols 100 are stopped and displayed in the normal game, the stopped and displayed trigger symbols are rotated (see FIG. 1D). Thereafter, after the trigger symbols are stopped and displayed face up or face down, the number of trigger symbols scrolled on the video reel 3 is increased or decreased according to the number of face up trigger symbols. As a result, free games having different probabilities of retriggering occur.
(See FIGS. 1E-1G). A free game is a game that is played even if a game medium such as coins is not bet.

Further, the gaming machine pays out a jackpot amount coin to the player when a combination of symbols related to the jackpot trigger is displayed. The jackpot accumulates a portion of the coins consumed by the player in each gaming machine as a jackpot amount, and when there is a gaming machine for which a jackpot trigger is established, the accumulated jackpot for that gaming machine A function that pays out coins.
The gaming machine calculates an amount (accumulated amount) to be accumulated in the jackpot amount for each game and transmits it to the external control device. The external control device accumulates the accumulated amount transmitted from each gaming machine into the jackpot amount.

In addition to the above benefits, the gaming machine is provided with benefits such as a mystery bonus and insurance.
In the mystery bonus, a predetermined amount of coins is paid out by winning a special lottery. When the spin button is pressed, the gaming machine extracts a random value for the mystery bonus and determines by lottery whether or not to establish the mystery bonus trigger.

Insurance is a function provided for the purpose of relieving the player from a situation where a free game has not been played for a long time. In the present embodiment, the player can arbitrarily select whether or not the insurance is valid. When insurance is activated, it is exchanged for a predetermined amount of insurance.
When insurance is validated, the gaming machine starts counting the number of games. Then, the gaming machine pays out coins of an amount set for insurance when the counted number of games reaches a predetermined number without paying out a large amount due to a free game or the like.

<Determination of production>
The gaming machine produces effects by displaying an image on a display, outputting light from a lamp, and outputting sound from a speaker. The gaming machine extracts a random number for production, and determines the content of the production based on the symbol determined by lottery.

[Overall game system]
This completes the description of the basic functions of the gaming machine. Next, a game system including a gaming machine will be described with reference to FIG.
FIG. 3 is a view illustrating a game system including the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention.

The game system 300 includes a plurality of gaming machines 1 and an external control device 200 connected to each gaming machine 1 via a communication line 301.

The external control device 200 controls a plurality of gaming machines 1. In the present embodiment, the external control device 200 is a so-called hall server installed in a gaming facility having a plurality of gaming machines 1. Each gaming machine 1 is assigned a unique identification number, and the external control device 200 determines the origin of data sent from each gaming machine 1 based on the identification number. In addition, when transmitting data from the external control device 200 to the gaming machine 1, the transmission destination is specified using the identification number.

Note that the game system 300 may be constructed in one gaming facility capable of performing various games, such as a casino, or may be constructed among a plurality of gaming facilities. Further, when the game system 300 is constructed within one game facility, the game system 300 may be constructed for each floor or section of the game facility. The communication line 301 may be wired or wireless, and a dedicated line or an exchange line can be employed.

[Overall structure of gaming machine]
This completes the description of the game system according to the present embodiment. Next, the overall structure of the gaming machine 1 will be described with reference to FIG.
FIG. 4 is a view illustrating the overall configuration of the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention.

In the gaming machine 1, coins, bills, or electronic valuable information corresponding to these are used as game media. In the present embodiment, a ticket with a barcode, which will be described later, is also used. Note that game media is not limited to these, and for example, medals, tokens, electronic money, and the like can be employed.

The gaming machine 1 includes a cabinet 11, a top box 12 installed on the upper side of the cabinet 11, and a main door 13 provided on the front surface of the cabinet 11.

A lower image display panel 141 is provided at the center of the main door 13. The lower image display panel 141 includes a liquid crystal panel and constitutes a display. The lower image display panel 141 has a symbol display area 4. In the symbol display area 4, five video reels 3 (3a, 3b, 3c, 3d, 3e) are displayed.
In the present embodiment, the video reel is a video representing a rotation and stop operation of a mechanical reel having a plurality of symbols drawn on its peripheral surface. Each video reel 3 is assigned a symbol string composed of a plurality of predetermined symbols (22 symbols in this embodiment) (see FIG. 5 described later).

In the symbol display area 4, the symbol strings assigned to the respective video reels 3 are scrolled and stopped after a predetermined time. As a result, a part of each symbol row (four consecutive symbols in this embodiment) is displayed on the player.
In the symbol display area 4, one symbol is displayed in each of the four areas of the upper stage, the upper center stage, the lower center stage, and the lower stage according to each video reel 3. That is, 20 symbols of 5 columns × 4 are displayed in the symbol display area 4.

In the present embodiment, any one of the above four areas is selected according to each video reel 3, and a line formed by connecting the respective areas is used as a winning line.
Although the specific mode of the winning line can be arbitrarily adopted, for example, in addition to the straight line connecting the upper central regions corresponding to the respective video reels 3, a V-shaped or bent shape is used. Lines can be used. Also, the number of winning lines can be arbitrarily adopted, for example, 30.

The lower image display panel 141 corresponds to the symbol display device in the present invention.
In this embodiment, the case where the gaming machine 1 is a so-called video slot machine has been described. However, the gaming machine of the present invention is configured to stop and display symbols using a so-called mechanical reel. Also good.

The lower image display panel 141 includes a touch panel 114. The player can input various instructions by touching the lower image display panel 141.

Below the lower image display panel 141, various buttons are arranged, including various buttons arranged on the control panel 30, and various devices to be operated by the player.

The spin button 31 is used when starting to scroll the symbol column of each video reel 3. The change button 32 is used when requesting a change of money from an attendant of the game facility. The CASHOUT button 33 is used when paying out coins deposited in the gaming machine 1 to the coin tray 15.

The 1-BET button 34 and the maximum BET button 35 are for determining the number of coins (hereinafter referred to as “BET number”) used in the game from the coins deposited in the gaming machine 1. The 1-BET button 34 is used when determining the BET number in units of one sheet. The maximum BET button 35 is used when the BET number is set to the specified upper limit number.

The coin receiving slot 36 is provided for receiving coins. The bill validator 115 is provided for receiving bills. The banknote discriminator 115 sorts whether or not the banknote is appropriate, and accepts the appropriate banknote into the cabinet 11. Note that the bill validator 115 may be configured to be able to read a barcoded ticket 175 described later.

An upper image display panel 131 is provided on the front surface of the top box 12. The upper image display panel 131 is a liquid crystal panel and constitutes a display. The upper image display panel 131 displays an image related to the effect, an introduction of game contents, and an image showing a rule. Further, the top box 12 is provided with a speaker 112 and a lamp 111. In the gaming machine 1, an effect is executed by displaying an image, outputting sound, and outputting light.

Below the upper image display panel 131, a ticket printer 171, a card slot 176, a data display 174, and a keypad 173 are provided.

The ticket printer 171 prints on a ticket a bar code in which data such as the number of credits, date and time, and an identification number of the gaming machine 1 are encoded, and outputs it as a ticket 175 with a bar code. The player can cause the gaming machine to read the barcode-added ticket 175 to play a game, or exchange the barcode-added ticket 175 for a bill or the like at a predetermined location in a gaming facility (for example, a cashier in a casino).

The card slot 176 is for inserting a card storing predetermined data. For example, the card stores data for identifying the player and data regarding the history of games played by the player.
The card inserted into the card slot 176 is read and written by a card reader 172 described later. The card may store data corresponding to coins, bills or credits.

The data display unit 174 includes a fluorescent display, an LED, and the like, and displays data read by the card reader 172 or data input by the player via the keypad 173, for example. The keypad 173 is for inputting instructions and data related to ticket issuance and the like.

[Video reel symbol column]
This completes the description of the overall structure of the gaming machine 1. Next, with reference to FIG. 5, a configuration of symbol columns displayed on the video reel 3 of the gaming machine 1 will be described.
FIG. 5 is a view illustrating a symbol arrangement (hereinafter also referred to as a symbol table) displayed on each video reel 3 of the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention. Data indicating the symbol table is stored in the memory card 54.
In the symbol table shown in FIG. And a random value are associated with each other.

In the symbol table shown in FIG. 5, according to each video reel 3, each of the 22 symbols (code numbers “00” to “21”) constituting the symbol row has an equal probability (ie 1/22). Random values are assigned as determined. Further, the first video reel 3a, the second video reel 3b, the third video reel 3c, the fourth video reel 3d, and the fifth video reel 3e are respectively provided with 22 codes corresponding to the code numbers “00” to “21”. A symbol string composed of symbols is assigned.

“JACKPOT 7”, “BLUE 7”, “BELL”, “CHERRY”, “STRAWBERRY”, “PLUM”, “ORANGE”, and “TRIGGER” are provided as symbol types.

[Circuit configuration of the gaming machine]
This completes the description of the configuration of the symbol columns included in the video reel 3 of the gaming machine 1. Next, a configuration of a circuit included in the gaming machine 1 will be described with reference to FIG.
FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating an internal configuration of the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention.

The gaming board 50 includes a CPU 51, a ROM 52 and a boot ROM 53, which are connected to each other via an internal bus, a card slot 55 corresponding to the memory card 54, and an IC socket 57 corresponding to a GAL (Generic Array Logic) 56.

The memory card 54 is composed of a nonvolatile memory and stores a game program and a game system program. The game program includes a program related to the game progress, a lottery program, and a program for executing effects by images and sounds (see, for example, FIGS. 8 to 17 described later). Further, the game program includes data (data indicating a symbol table) (see FIG. 5) that defines the configuration of the symbol sequence assigned to each video reel 3. Further, the game program includes data indicating a face-up trigger symbol determination table (see FIG. 18) and data indicating a trigger symbol increase number determination table (see FIG. 1H or FIG. 22).

The lottery program is a program for determining a stop scheduled symbol of each video reel 3 by lottery. The scheduled stop symbol is data for determining four symbols to be displayed by the symbol display area 4 among the 22 symbols constituting the symbol row. The gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment determines a symbol to be displayed in a predetermined area (for example, an upper area) among four areas corresponding to each video reel 3 in the symbol display area 4 as a scheduled stop symbol.

The lottery program includes symbol determination data. According to each video reel 3, the symbol determination data is determined with an equal probability (that is, 1/22) for each of the 22 symbols (code numbers “00” to “21”) constituting the symbol row. In this way, it is data defining a random value.
The probability that each of the 22 symbols is determined is basically equal. However, since the number of various symbols included in the 22 symbols is different, the probability that various symbols are determined is different (that is, a weight is generated). For example, referring to FIG. 5, the symbol sequence of the first video reel 3a includes one symbol “JACKPOT7”, but includes seven symbols “ORANGE”. Therefore, the former is determined with a probability of “1/22”, while the latter is determined with a probability of “7/22”.

In the present embodiment, the data is defined so that the number of symbols constituting the symbol column of each video reel 3 is the same. However, according to each video reel 3, the number of symbols constituting the symbol column is determined. The number may be different. For example, the symbol sequence of the first video reel 3a may be composed of 22 symbols, while the symbol sequence of the second video reel 3b may be composed of 30 symbols. This increases the degree of freedom in setting the probability that various symbols are determined for each video reel 3.

The card slot 55 is configured so that the memory card 54 can be inserted and removed, and is connected to the motherboard 70 via an IDE bus.

The GAL 56 is a kind of PLD (Programmable Logic Device) having an OR fixed type array structure. The GAL 56 includes a plurality of input ports and output ports. When a predetermined input is input to the input port, the corresponding data is output from the output port.

The IC socket 57 is configured so that the GAL 56 can be attached and detached, and is connected to the mother board 70 by a PCI bus. The content of the game played in the gaming machine 1 can be changed by replacing the memory card 54 with another program written therein or rewriting the program written in the memory card 54 with another one. .

The CPU 51, ROM 52, and boot ROM 53 connected to each other via an internal bus are connected to the motherboard 70 via a PCI bus. The PCI bus transmits signals between the motherboard 70 and the gaming board 50 and supplies power from the motherboard 70 to the gaming board 50.

The ROM 52 stores an authentication program. The boot ROM 53 stores a preliminary authentication program and a program (boot code) for the CPU 51 to start the preliminary authentication program.
The authentication program is a program (tamper check program) for authenticating the game program and the game system program. The preliminary authentication program is a program for authenticating the authentication program. The authentication program and the preliminary authentication program are described in accordance with a procedure (authentication procedure) for authenticating that the target program has not been tampered with.

The motherboard 70 includes a main CPU 71, a ROM 72, a RAM 73, and a communication interface 82. The motherboard 70 corresponds to the controller in the present invention. In the present embodiment, the controller is constituted by one CPU called the main CPU 71, but the controller in the present invention may be constituted by a plurality of CPUs.

The ROM 72 includes a memory device such as a flash memory, and stores a program such as a BIOS executed by the main CPU 71 and permanent data. When the BIOS is executed by the main CPU 71, initialization processing of predetermined peripheral devices is performed. In addition, the game program and the game system program fetching process stored in the memory card 54 is started via the gaming board 50.

The RAM 73 stores data and programs used when the main CPU 71 operates. For example, when the above-described game program, game system program, and authentication program are loaded, these can be stored. The RAM 73 is provided with a work area for executing the program. For example, an area for storing the number of games, the number of BETs, the number of payouts, the number of credits, an area for storing symbols (code numbers) determined by lottery, and the like are provided.

In addition, the RAM 73 is provided with a free game number storage area and an updated symbol table storage area for storing an updated symbol table (see FIG. 20A or 20B).
In the free game number storage area, remaining number of times data indicating the remaining number of free games is stored.

The communication interface 82 is for communicating with the external control device 200 such as a server via the communication line 301. The motherboard 70 is connected to a later-described door PCB (Printed Circuit Board) 90 and a main body PCB 110 by USB. Further, a power supply unit 81 is connected to the motherboard 70.
When power is supplied from the power supply unit 81 to the motherboard 70, the main CPU 71 of the motherboard 70 is activated, and power is supplied to the gaming board 50 via the PCI bus to activate the CPU 51.

Input devices such as switches and sensors and peripheral devices whose operations are controlled by the main CPU 71 are connected to the door PCB 90 and the main body PCB 110.
A control panel 30, a reverter 91, a coin counter 92C, and a cold cathode tube 93 are connected to the door PCB 90.

The control panel 30 is provided with a spin switch 31S, a change switch 32S, a CASHOUT switch 33S, a 1-BET switch 34S, and a maximum BET switch 35S corresponding to the above-described buttons. Each switch detects that the corresponding button has been pressed by the player, and outputs a signal to the main CPU 71.

The coin counter 92C determines whether or not the coins inserted into the coin receiving slot 36 are appropriate in material and shape, and outputs a signal to the main CPU 71 when an appropriate coin is detected. Inappropriate coins are discharged from the coin payout exit 15A.

The reverter 91 operates based on a control signal output from the main CPU 71, and distributes appropriate coins selected by the coin counter 92C to a hopper 113 or a cash box (not shown). When the hopper 113 is not filled with coins, it is sorted into the hopper 113, and when the hopper 113 is filled with coins, it is sorted into the cash box.

The cold cathode tube 93 functions as a backlight installed on the back side of the upper image display panel 131 and the lower image display panel 141, and lights up based on a control signal output from the main CPU 71.

Connected to the main body PCB 110 are a lamp 111, a speaker 112, a hopper 113, a coin detection unit 113S, a touch panel 114, a bill validator 115, a graphic board 130, a ticket printer 171, a card reader 172, a key switch 173S, and a data display 174. ing.

The lamp 111 is lit based on a control signal output from the main CPU 71. The speaker 112 outputs a sound such as BGM based on a control signal output from the main CPU 71.

The hopper 113 operates based on a control signal output from the main CPU 71, and pays out a designated payout number of coins from the coin payout exit 15 </ b> A to the coin tray 15. The coin detection unit 113 </ b> S detects coins paid out by the hopper 113 and outputs a signal to the main CPU 71.

The touch panel 114 detects a position touched by a player's finger or the like on the lower image display panel, and outputs a signal corresponding to the detected position to the main CPU 71. When the banknote discriminator 115 receives an appropriate banknote, it outputs a signal corresponding to the amount of the banknote to the main CPU 71.

The graphic board 130 controls display of images performed by each of the upper image display panel 131 and the lower image display panel 141 based on a control signal output from the main CPU 71. In the symbol display area 4 of the lower image display panel 141, five video reels 3 are displayed, and the operation of scrolling and stopping the symbol columns of each video reel 3 is displayed. The graphic board 130 includes a VDP that generates image data, a video RAM that stores image data generated by the VDP, and the like. In the credit amount display area 142 of the lower image display panel 141, the credit amount stored in the RAM 73 is displayed. In the payout number display area 143 of the lower image display panel 141, the number of coins paid out is displayed.

The graphic board 130 includes a VDP (Video Display Processor) that generates image data based on a control signal output from the main CPU 71, a video RAM that temporarily stores image data generated by the VDP, and the like. ing. Note that the image data used when generating image data by VDP is included in the game program read from the memory card 54 and stored in the RAM 73.

Based on the control signal output from the main CPU 71, the ticket printer 171 prints on the ticket a bar code in which data such as the number of credits, date and time, and identification number of the gaming machine 1 stored in the RAM 73 is encoded. Output as a ticket 175 with code.

The card reader 172 reads the data stored in the card inserted in the card slot 176 and transmits it to the main CPU 71 or writes data based on a control signal from the main CPU 71.

The key switch 173S is provided on the keypad 173, and outputs a predetermined signal to the main CPU 71 when the keypad 173 is operated by the player.

The data display 174 displays data read by the card reader 172 or data input by the player via the keypad 173 based on a control signal output from the main CPU 71.

[Configuration of symbol combination table]
This completes the description of the circuit configuration of the gaming machine 1. Next, the symbol combination table will be described with reference to FIG.
FIG. 7 is a view illustrating a symbol combination table of the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention.

The symbol combination table defines combinations of symbols related to winning and the number of payouts. In the gaming machine 1, the scrolling of the symbol column of each video reel 3 is stopped, and the winning combination is established when the symbol combination displayed on the winning line matches the symbol combination defined by the symbol combination table. To do. Then, according to the winning combination, a privilege such as paying out coins or starting a free game is given to the player. If the combination of symbols displayed on the winning line does not match any of the symbol combinations defined by the symbol combination table, the winning is not established (so-called “losing”).

Basically, all the symbols displayed on the winning line by each video reel 3 are “JACKPOT 7”, “TRIGGER”, “BLUE 7”, “BELL”, “CHERRY”, “STRAWBERRY”, “PLUM”. And “ORANGE”, a winning combination is established. However, for each type of symbol “CHERRY” and “ORANGE”, one or three symbols of one type are displayed on the winning line by the video reel 3, and a winning is established. For the “TRIGGER” symbol that is a trigger symbol, a winning is established when three or more symbols are stopped and displayed on the video reel 3 regardless of the winning line.
For example, when the symbols “BLUE 7” are displayed on the winning line by all the video reels 3, the winning combination is “BLUE”, and “10” is determined as the number of payouts. Then, coins are paid out based on the determined payout number. The coin is paid out by actually discharging the coin from the coin payout exit 15A, adding to the number of credits, or issuing a bar code ticket.

“JACKPOT 7” is a symbol related to the jackpot trigger. When the symbols “JACKPOT 7” are displayed on the winning line by all the video reels 3, the winning combination is “Jackpot”, and the jackpot amount is determined as the number of payouts.
“TRIGGER” is a symbol related to a free game trigger. When three or more symbols (trigger symbol 100) indicating “TRIGGER” are stopped and displayed on all the video reels 3, the winning combination is “free game trigger”, and the trigger symbol 100 that is stopped and displayed is rotated ( FIG. 1D). Thereafter, after the trigger symbol 100 is stopped and displayed face up or face down, a free game in which retrigger is established with a probability corresponding to the number of face up trigger symbols occurs (see FIG. 1G).
Note that the stop display of three or more trigger symbols 100 corresponds to a predetermined condition in the present invention.

[Program contents]
This completes the description of the symbol combination table. Next, a program executed by the gaming machine 1 will be described with reference to FIGS.

<Main control processing>
First, the main control process will be described with reference to FIG.
FIG. 8 is a view illustrating a flowchart of main control processing of the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention.

First, when the gaming machine 1 is powered on, the main CPU 71 reads out the authenticated game program and game system program from the memory card 54 via the gaming board 50 and writes them in the RAM 73 (step S11).

Next, the main CPU 71 performs an initialization process at the end of one game (step S12). For example, unnecessary data is cleared for each game in the work area of the RAM 73, such as the number of BETs and symbols determined by lottery.

Next, the main CPU 71 performs a coin insertion / start check process which will be described later with reference to FIG. 9 (step S13). In this process, input of a BET switch or a spin switch is checked.

Next, the main CPU 71 performs symbol lottery processing which will be described later with reference to FIG. 12 (step S14). In this process, the symbol to be stopped is determined based on the random number for symbol determination.

Next, the main CPU 71 performs a mystery bonus lottery process (step S15). In this process, lottery is performed to determine whether to establish a mystery bonus trigger. For example, the main CPU 71 extracts a mystery bonus random value from a range of “0 to 99”, and establishes a mystery bonus trigger when the extracted random value is “0”.

Next, the main CPU 71 performs effect content determination processing (step S16). The main CPU 71 extracts a random number for production, and determines any of a plurality of predetermined production contents by lottery.

Next, the main CPU 71 performs a symbol display control process which will be described later with reference to FIG. 13 (step S17). In this process, scrolling of the symbol column of each video reel 3 is started, and the scheduled stop symbol determined in the symbol lottery process in step S14 is stopped at a predetermined position (for example, the upper area in the symbol display area 4). . That is, four symbols including the scheduled stop symbol are displayed in the symbol display area 4. For example, if the symbol to be stopped is the symbol with the code number “10” and is displayed in the upper area, the symbols with the code numbers “11”, “12”, and “13” are displayed in the symbol display area 4. It is displayed in each of the upper middle, lower middle and lower stages.

Next, the main CPU 71 performs a payout amount determination process which will be described later with reference to FIG. 14 (step S18). In this process, the number of payouts is determined based on the combination of symbols displayed on the winning line, and stored in a payout number storage area provided in the RAM 73.

Next, the main CPU 71 determines whether or not three or more trigger symbols 100 (see FIG. 1C) are stopped and displayed (step S19). When determining that three or more trigger symbols 100 are stopped and displayed, the main CPU 71 performs a free game process which will be described later with reference to FIG. 16 (step S20).

Next, the main CPU 71 determines whether or not a mystery bonus trigger has been established after the process of step S20 or when it is determined in step S19 that three or more trigger symbols 100 are not stopped and displayed (step S21). ). When determining that the mystery bonus trigger has been established, the main CPU 71 performs a mystery bonus process (step S22). In this process, the number of payouts set for the mystery bonus (for example, 300) is stored in the payout amount storage area provided in the RAM 73.

The main CPU 71 performs an insurance check process which will be described later with reference to FIG. 15 after the process of step S22 or when it is determined in step S21 that the mystery bonus trigger has not been established (step S23). In this process, it is checked whether or not to pay out by insurance.

Next, the main CPU 71 conducts payout processing (step S24). The main CPU 71 adds the value stored in the payout amount storage area to the value stored in the credit number storage area provided in the RAM 73. The driving of the hopper 113 may be controlled based on the input of the CASHOUT switch 33S, and coins corresponding to the values stored in the payout number storage area may be discharged from the coin payout exit 15A. Alternatively, the ticket printer 171 may be controlled to issue a barcoded ticket in which the value stored in the payout amount storage area is recorded. After this process is performed, the process proceeds to step S12.

<Coin insertion / start check process>
Next, the coin insertion / start check process will be described with reference to FIG.
FIG. 9 is a view illustrating a flowchart of coin-insertion / start-check processing for the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention.

First, the main CPU 71 determines whether or not coin insertion has been detected by the coin counter 92C (step S41). When determining that coin insertion has been detected, the main CPU 71 adds the value stored in the credit amount storage area (step S42). In addition to the insertion of coins, it is determined whether or not the insertion of banknotes is detected by the banknote discriminator 115, and when it is determined that the insertion of banknotes is detected, the value corresponding to the banknotes is stored in the credit number storage area. You may make it add to the stored value.

The main CPU 71 determines whether or not the value stored in the credit amount storage area is 0 after step S42 or when it is determined in step S41 that coin insertion has not been detected (step S43). . When the main CPU 71 determines that the value stored in the credit amount storage area is not 0, the main CPU 71 permits operation acceptance of the BET button (step S44).

Next, the main CPU 71 determines whether or not an operation of the BET button has been detected (step S45). When the main CPU 71 detects by the BET switch that the BET button has been pressed by the player, the main CPU 71 adds the value stored in the BET number storage area provided in the RAM 73 based on the type of the BET button, The value stored in the credit amount storage area is subtracted (step S46).

Next, the main CPU 71 determines whether or not the value stored in the BET number storage area is the maximum (step S47). When the main CPU 71 determines that the value stored in the BET number storage area is the maximum, the main CPU 71 prohibits updating of the value stored in the BET number storage area (step S48). After determining that the value stored in the BET number storage area is not the maximum after step S48 or at step S47, the main CPU 71 permits the operation acceptance of the spin button (step S49).

When the main CPU 71 determines that the operation of the BET button is not detected in step S45 after step S49, or determines that the value stored in the credit amount storage area is 0 in step S43, the main CPU 71 It is determined whether or not a button operation is detected (step S50). When determining that the operation of the spin button has not been detected, the main CPU 71 proceeds to step S41.

When determining that the operation of the spin button has been detected, the main CPU 71 performs jackpot-related processing which will be described later with reference to FIG. 10 (step S51). In this process, the amount accumulated in the jackpot amount is calculated and transmitted to the external control device 200.

Next, the main CPU 71 performs insurance-related processing which will be described later with reference to FIG. 11 (step S52). In this process, the number of games that triggers payout by insurance is counted. When this process is performed, the coin insertion / start check process is terminated.

<Jackpot-related processing>
Next, jackpot-related processing will be described with reference to FIG.
FIG. 10 is a view illustrating a flowchart of jackpot-related processing for the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention.

First, the main CPU 71 calculates an accumulated amount (step S71). The main CPU 71 obtains the product of the value stored in the BET number storage area and a preset cumulative ratio, and calculates the cumulative amount to the jackpot amount.

Next, the main CPU 71 transmits the calculated accumulated amount to the external control device 200 (step S72). When receiving the accumulated amount, the external control device 200 updates the jackpot amount. When this process is performed, the jackpot-related process is terminated.

<Insurance-related processing>
Next, insurance-related processing will be described with reference to FIG.
FIG. 11 is a view illustrating a flowchart of insurance-related processing for the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention.

First, the main CPU 71 determines whether or not the insurance effective flag is on (step S91). The insurance effective flag is set to ON when an instruction to enable insurance is input by the player in the insurance selection processing described later with reference to FIG.

When the main CPU 71 determines that the insurance-effective flag is not on, the main CPU 71 ends the insurance-related processing. On the other hand, when determining that the insurance-effective flag is on, the main CPU 71 updates the value stored in the insurance game frequency storage area provided in the RAM 73 (step S92). The insurance game number storage area is an area for storing the number of games until payout by insurance. In step S92, the main CPU 71 adds 1 to the value stored in the insurance game frequency storage area. When this process is performed, the insurance-related process is terminated.

<Symbol lottery processing>
Next, the symbol lottery process will be described with reference to FIG.
FIG. 12 is a view illustrating a flowchart of symbol lottery processing for the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention.

First, the main CPU 71 extracts random numbers for symbol determination (step S111). Next, the main CPU 71 determines a scheduled stop symbol for each video reel 3 based on the extracted random number value and the symbol table (see FIG. 5) (step S112). The main CPU 71 performs lottery according to each video reel 3, and determines any of the 22 symbols (code numbers “00” to “21”) as the scheduled stop symbols. At this time, each of the 22 symbols (code numbers “00” to “21”) is determined with an equal probability (that is, 1/22).

Next, the main CPU 71 stores the determined to-be stopped symbols for each video reel 3 in a symbol storage area provided in the RAM 73 (step S113). Next, the main CPU 71 refers to the symbol combination table (FIG. 7) and determines a winning combination based on the symbol storage area (step S114). The main CPU 71 determines whether or not the symbol combination displayed on the winning line by each video reel 3 matches the symbol combination defined in the symbol combination table, and determines the winning combination. When this process is performed, the symbol lottery process is terminated.

<Symbol display control processing>
Next, the symbol display control process will be described with reference to FIG.
FIG. 13 is a view illustrating a flowchart of symbol display control processing for the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention.

First, the main CPU 71 starts scrolling the symbol column of each video reel 3 displayed in the symbol display area 4 of the lower image display panel 141 (step S131). Next, the main CPU 71 stops the scrolling of the symbol column of each video reel 3 based on the above-described symbol storage area (step S132). When this process is performed, the symbol display control process is terminated.

<Payout number determination process>
Next, the payout number determination process will be described with reference to FIG.
FIG. 14 is a view illustrating a flowchart of the payout amount determination processing for the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention.

First, the main CPU 71 determines whether or not the winning combination is a jackpot (step S151). When the main CPU 71 determines that the winning combination is not a jackpot, the main CPU 71 determines the number of payouts corresponding to the winning combination (step S152). For example, when the winning combination is “BELL”, “8” is determined as the number of payouts (see FIG. 7). In the case of a loss, “0” is determined as the number of payouts. Next, the main CPU 71 stores the determined number of payouts in the payout number storage area (step S153). When this process is performed, the payout number determination process is terminated.

When the main CPU 71 determines that the winning combination is a jackpot, the main CPU 71 notifies the external control device 200 that the jackpot has been won (step S154). When receiving the notification, the external control device 200 transmits the jackpot amount that has been updated so far to the gaming machine 1. At this time, a part of the jackpot amount (for example, 80%) may be paid out, and the remaining part (for example, 20%) may be carried over in preparation for the next jackpot trigger establishment.

Next, the main CPU 71 receives the amount of jackpot from the external control device 200 (step S155). Next, the main CPU 71 stores the received jackpot amount in the payout amount storage area (step S156). When this process is performed, the payout number determination process is terminated.

<Insurance check processing>
Next, the insurance check process will be described with reference to FIG.
FIG. 15 is a view illustrating a flowchart of insurance check processing for the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention.

First, the main CPU 71 determines whether or not the insurance effective flag is on (step S171). When the main CPU 71 determines that the insurance-effective flag is not on, the main CPU 71 ends the insurance-check process.

When determining that the insurance-effective flag is on, the main CPU 71 determines whether or not a predetermined winning combination has been established (step S172). In the present embodiment, “free game trigger”, “jackpot”, and “mystery bonus” are targeted as predetermined winning combinations.

When determining that the predetermined winning combination has not been established, the main CPU 71 determines whether or not the value stored in the insurance game number storage area has reached a predetermined number (for example, 300) (step S173). . When the main CPU 71 determines that the value stored in the insurance game count storage area has not reached the predetermined count, the main CPU 71 ends the insurance check process.

When the main CPU 71 determines that the value stored in the insurance game count storage area has reached the predetermined count, the main CPU 71 performs payout processing based on the insurance amount (step S174). The main CPU 71 adds a predetermined amount (for example, 200) as the insurance amount to the value stored in the credit amount storage area.

The main CPU 71 resets the value stored in the insurance game frequency storage area after step S174 or when it is determined in step S172 that a predetermined winning combination has been established (step S175). Next, the main CPU 71 turns off the insurance effective flag (step S176). When this process is performed, the insurance check process is terminated.

<Free game processing>
Next, free game processing will be described with reference to FIG.
FIG. 16 is a view illustrating a flowchart of the free game processing of the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention.

First, the main CPU 71 conducts retrigger establishment probability determination processing (step S191). The retrigger establishment probability determination process will be described later in detail with reference to FIG.

Next, the main CPU 71 determines the number of free games (step S192). The main CPU 71 extracts a random number value for determining the number of free games, and determines one of a plurality of types of free games such as “50”, “70” and “100” by lottery.

Next, the main CPU 71 stores the determined number of free games in a free game number storage area provided in the RAM 73 (step S193).

Next, the main CPU 71 conducts trigger symbol rotation display control processing (step S194). In this process, rotation display of the trigger symbol 100 stopped and displayed in the symbol display area 4 of the lower image display panel 141 is started. Then, based on the orientation (front or back) of the trigger symbol determined in step S242 (see FIG. 17), which will be described later, the automatically displayed trigger symbol 100 is stopped and displayed in a face-up or face-down manner (see FIG. 1D to FIG. 1G).

Next, the main CPU 71 performs an initialization process at the end of one game, similarly to the process of step S12 described with reference to FIG. 8 (step S195).

Next, the main CPU 71 performs the symbol lottery process described with reference to FIG. 12 (step S196). In this process, when the symbol table (see FIG. 20) after the symbol table update process (step S245 in FIG. 17) is stored in the post-update symbol table storage area, the extracted random value (step in FIG. 12). Based on the symbol table after the symbol table update process (see S111), the stop scheduled symbols of each video reel 3 are determined (step S112 in FIG. 12).
The symbol table update process will be described later in detail with reference to FIG.

Next, the main CPU 71 performs effect content determination processing in the same manner as the processing in step S16 described with reference to FIG. 8 (step S197). Next, the main CPU 71 performs the symbol display control process described with reference to FIG. 13 (step S198). Next, the main CPU 71 performs a payout amount determination process described with reference to FIG. 14 (step S199).

Next, the main CPU 71 determines whether or not three or more trigger symbols 100 (see FIG. 1I) are stopped and displayed (step S200). When determining that three or more trigger symbols 100 are stopped and displayed, the main CPU 71 determines the number of free games to be added (step S201). Similar to the processing in step S192 described above, the number of free games is determined. Next, the main CPU 71 adds the determined number of free games to the value stored in the free game number storage area (step S202).

After step S202, or when it is determined in step S200 that three or more trigger symbols 100 are not stopped and displayed, the main CPU 71 performs payout processing (step S203). In this payout process, the main CPU 71 adds the value stored in the payout number storage area in the payout number determination process in step S199 described above to the value stored in the free game payout number storage area. The free game payout number storage area is an area for storing the total number of payouts determined during the free game.
When the free game process ends, the main CPU 71 uses the credit stored in the RAM 73 as the value stored in the free game payout amount storage area in the payout process of step S24 described with reference to FIG. Add to the value stored in the number storage area. That is, the total number of payouts determined in the free game is paid out collectively. Note that coins may be discharged from the coin payout exit 15A, or a ticket with a barcode may be issued.

Next, the main CPU 71 subtracts 1 from the value stored in the free game number storage area (step S204). Next, the main CPU 71 determines whether or not the value stored in the free game number storage area is 0 (step S205). When the main CPU 71 determines that the value stored in the free game number storage area is not 0, the main CPU 71 proceeds to the process of step S195. On the other hand, when it is determined that the value stored in the free game number storage area is 0, the process proceeds to step S206.

In step S206, the main CPU 71 performs symbol table initialization processing. In this process, a symbol table (see FIG. 20A or 20B) updated by a symbol table update process (step S245 in FIG. 17) described later is initialized (see FIG. 5). That is, in this process, the data indicating the updated symbol table stored in the updated symbol table storage area provided in the RAM 73 is cleared.
The symbol table update process (step S245 in FIG. 17) will be described later in detail with reference to FIG.
The main CPU 71 ends the present subroutine after the process of step S206.

The free game process (see step S20 in FIG. 8) has been described above with reference to FIG.

<Retrigger establishment probability determination process>
Next, the retrigger establishment probability determination process will be described with reference to FIG.
FIG. 17 is a view illustrating a flowchart of retrigger establishment probability determination processing for the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention.

The main CPU 71 extracts a random value for each trigger symbol 100 (see FIG. 1C) that is stopped and displayed by the base game (step S241). In the example illustrated in FIG. 1C, a random value is extracted in association with each of the four trigger symbols that are stopped and displayed.
Thereafter, the main CPU 71 determines a face-up trigger symbol based on the random number value extracted in step S241 and the face-up trigger symbol determination table (see FIG. 18) (step S242). In this process, for each random number extracted in step S241, the front side or the back side is determined. Here, the face-up or face-down direction is the direction when the trigger symbol rotated and displayed by the trigger symbol rotation display control process (step S194 in FIG. 16) is stopped and displayed (see FIGS. 1D to 1G).

Next, the main CPU 71 determines the trigger symbol increase number based on the number of face-up trigger symbols determined in step S242 and the trigger symbol increase number determination table (see FIG. 1H) (step S243). In the example shown in FIG. 1G, twelve trigger symbols increase due to the fact that four face-up trigger symbols are stopped and displayed (see FIG. 1H).

Next, the main CPU 71 stores the trigger symbol increase number determined in step S243 in the trigger symbol increase number storage area provided in the RAM 73 (step S244).

Next, the main CPU 71 performs a symbol table update process (step S245). The symbol table update process will be described later in detail with reference to FIG.
The main CPU 71 ends the present subroutine after the process of step S245.

The retrigger establishment probability determination process (see step S191 in FIG. 16) has been described above with reference to FIGS.

<Symbol table update processing>
Next, the symbol table update process will be described with reference to FIG.
FIG. 19 is a view illustrating a flowchart of the symbol table update processing of the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention.

In the present embodiment, the update of the symbol table means that a normal symbol in the symbol table (see FIG. 5) is replaced with a trigger symbol (see FIG. 20A), or a trigger symbol in the symbol table is replaced with a normal symbol. (See FIG. 20B).

The main CPU 71 determines whether or not the trigger symbol increase number stored in the trigger symbol increase number storage area provided in the RAM 73 is 1 or more (step S260). When determining that the trigger symbol increase number stored in the trigger symbol increase number storage area is not 1 or more, the main CPU 71 shifts the processing to step S266. On the other hand, when determining that the trigger symbol increase number stored in the trigger symbol increase number storage area is 1 or more, the main CPU 71 shifts the processing to step S261.

In step S261, the main CPU 71 extracts a random value (step S261). Next, the main CPU 71 determines the code No. based on the random number extracted in step S261 and the symbol table (see FIG. 5). After determining the code No. The symbol associated with is determined (step S262). In this embodiment, based on the random number extracted in step S261 and the symbol table (see FIG. 5), the code No. Is determined, and one of the symbols displayed on the fifth video reel is determined.

Next, the main CPU 71 determines whether or not the symbol determined in step S262 is a normal symbol (step S263).

When determining that the symbol determined in step S262 is not a normal symbol, the main CPU 71 shifts the processing to step S261. On the other hand, when determining that the symbol determined in step S262 is a normal symbol, the main CPU 71 shifts the processing to step S264.

In step S264, the main CPU 71 updates the symbol table (step S264). In this process, the symbol determined in step S262 is replaced with a trigger symbol. Next, after subtracting 1 from the trigger symbol increase number stored in the trigger symbol increase number storage area provided in the RAM 73, the main CPU 71 shifts the processing to step S260 (step S265).

As described above, the main CPU 71 performs the processing from step S260 to step S265 until the trigger symbol increase number stored in the trigger symbol increase number storage area provided in the RAM 73 becomes zero. That is, the normal symbol on the symbol table (see FIG. 5) is replaced with the trigger symbol by the number of trigger symbols increased.

20A is a view illustrating an exemplary symbol table after the symbol table update processing (see step 245 in FIG. 17 or FIG. 19) of the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention.
20A shows 12 normal symbols (code No. 01, code No. 02, code No. 05, code No. 06, code No. 08, code of the fifth video reel) compared to the symbol table shown in FIG. No. 09, Code No. 11, Code No. 13, Code No. 15, Code No. 16, Code No. 18, Code No. 20) is a symbol (trigger symbol) indicating “TRGGER” It shows how it was replaced.

Returning to the description of FIG. 19 (symbol table update processing).
When it is determined in step S260 that the trigger symbol increase number is not 1 or more, the main CPU 71 determines whether or not the trigger symbol increase number stored in the trigger symbol increase number storage area provided in the RAM 73 is -1. Judgment is made (step S266). When determining that the trigger symbol increase number stored in the trigger symbol increase number storage area is not -1, the main CPU 71 ends the present subroutine.
On the other hand, when determining that the trigger symbol increase number stored in the trigger symbol increase number storage area is -1, the main CPU 71 shifts the processing to step S267.

The main CPU 71 executes the processes of steps S267 and S268. Since these processes are the same as the processes of step S261 and step S262, description thereof is omitted here.

After the process of step S268, the main CPU 71 determines whether or not the symbol determined in step S268 is a trigger symbol (step S269).

When determining that the symbol determined in step S268 is not the trigger symbol, the main CPU 71 shifts the processing to step S267. On the other hand, when determining that the symbol determined in step S268 is a trigger symbol, the main CPU 71 shifts the processing to step S270.

In step S270, the main CPU 71 updates the symbol determined in step S269 to “PLUM” which is a normal symbol (step S270). Next, the main CPU 71 adds 1 to the trigger symbol increase number stored in the trigger symbol increase number storage area provided in the RAM 73, and then moves the process to step S260 (step S271).

FIG. 20B is a view illustrating an exemplary symbol table after the symbol table update processing of the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention.
20B shows that the symbol table has a symbol indicating “TRIGGER” (symbol indicated by code No. 07 of the fifth video reel) compared to the symbol table shown in FIG. The symbol is replaced with a symbol indicating “

The symbol table update process (see step S245 in FIG. 17) has been described above with reference to FIGS.

<Insurance selection process>
Next, insurance selection processing will be described with reference to FIG.
FIG. 21 is a view illustrating a flowchart of insurance selection processing for the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention.

First, the main CPU 71 determines whether or not the insurance effective flag is on (step S221). When the main CPU 71 determines that the insurance-effective flag is not on, the main CPU 71 displays an insurance-ineffective image (step S222). The main CPU 71 transmits a command to display the insurance invalid image to the graphic board 130. Based on the command, the graphic board 130 generates an insurance invalid image and displays it on the lower image display panel 141.
As the insurance invalid image, for example, an image indicating “INSURANCE BET $ 1.00 TOUCH TO BET” is displayed. This image is an image for prompting the player to select whether to activate insurance and notifying the player of the amount necessary to activate insurance. The player can input an instruction to activate insurance by touching a predetermined location on the touch panel 114.

Subsequently, the main CPU 71 determines whether or not there is an insurance-effective instruction input (step S223). When the main CPU 71 determines that there is no insurance-effective instruction input, the main CPU 71 keeps the insurance-effective flag off and proceeds to step S221. On the other hand, when the main CPU 71 determines that there is an insurance-effective instruction input, the main CPU 71 turns on the insurance-effective flag (step S224).

Next, the main CPU 71 subtracts the insurance participation value from the value stored in the credit amount storage area (step S225). In the present embodiment, for example, a value corresponding to 1 dollar is subtracted from a value stored in the credit amount storage area. The main CPU 71 displays an insurance effective image after step S225 or when it is determined in step S221 that the insurance effective flag is on (step S226).
As the insurance effective image, for example, an image indicating “INSURANCE continuing WIN 200 CREDIT” is displayed. This image informs the player that the insurance is valid and that the value of “200” is added to the value stored in the credit amount storage area when the insurance condition is satisfied. When this process is performed, the process proceeds to step S221.

The insurance selection process has been described above with reference to FIG.

In the present embodiment, the number of free games given on the condition that the trigger is established (the number of free games determined in step S192 in FIG. 16) and the number of free games given on the condition that the retrigger is established (determined in step S201 in FIG. 16). The number of free games) is determined based on the extracted random number value. That is, in this embodiment, the number of free games given on condition that the predetermined condition in the present invention is satisfied is determined based on the extracted random number value.
However, the number of free games given on condition that the predetermined condition in the present invention is satisfied is not limited to this example. That is, the number of free games given on condition that the predetermined condition in the present invention is satisfied may be determined according to the number of face-up trigger symbols.

FIG. 22 is a diagram illustrating a correspondence relationship between the number of front-facing trigger symbols and the number of free games given when a predetermined condition is satisfied according to another embodiment of the present invention.
In the example shown in FIG. 22, the trigger symbol increase number is set according to the number of face-up trigger symbols, similarly to the trigger symbol increase number determination table shown in FIG. 1H. In the example shown in FIG. 22, the number of free games given as a condition for trigger establishment and the number of free games given as a condition for establishment of retriggers are also set according to the number of face-up trigger symbols.

In the example shown in FIG. 22, the greater the number of face-up trigger symbols, the greater the number of trigger symbols, and thus the higher the probability of retrigger establishment. In addition, in the example shown in FIG. 22, as the number of face-up trigger symbols increases, the number of free games given on the condition that the trigger is established and the number of free games given on the condition that the retrigger is established (given when the predetermined condition is established). There are few free games). That is, the higher the retrigger establishment probability, the smaller the number of free games given when the predetermined condition is established.
In contrast to the example shown in FIG. 22, the higher the retrigger establishment probability, the greater the number of free games given when the predetermined condition is established.

Further, the higher the value stored in the insurance game count storage area (see step S92 in FIG. 11), the greater the number of free games given when the predetermined condition in the present invention is met. . According to this, for a predetermined number of games, a relatively large number of free games is given to a player who has not paid out a large amount of free games or the like. Therefore, it is possible to enhance the expectation of the free game by the player who has not paid a large amount for a predetermined number of games.

In the present embodiment, the example in which the predetermined condition in the present invention is that three or more trigger symbols 100 are stopped and displayed has been described. However, the predetermined condition in the present invention is not limited to this example. That is, the predetermined condition in the present invention may be that a predetermined number of trigger symbols are stopped and displayed. The predetermined condition in the present invention may be that a predetermined number or less of trigger symbols are stopped and displayed.

In the present embodiment, the example in which the predetermined condition in the present invention is that the trigger symbol 100 is stopped and displayed regardless of the winning line is described. However, the predetermined condition in the present invention is not limited to this example. That is, the predetermined condition in the present invention may be that the trigger symbol that is stopped and displayed is stopped and displayed on the winning line. Further, the predetermined condition in the present invention may be that the trigger symbol that is stopped and displayed is stopped and displayed on a line other than the winning line.

In the present embodiment, the case where the specific display mode in the present invention is a front-facing display mode has been described. However, the specific display mode in the present invention is not limited to this example. That is, the specific display mode in the present invention may be any display mode, such as a display mode such as face down or sideways.

In the present embodiment, the case where the trigger symbol variation display in the present invention is the rotation display of the trigger symbol 100 has been described. However, the trigger symbol variation display in the present invention is not limited to this example. That is, the trigger symbol variation display in the present invention may be a color change display of the trigger symbol. The trigger symbol variation display in the present invention may be a symbol variation display including a trigger symbol and a normal symbol.
In the present invention, the trigger symbol may not be displayed in a variable manner.

In the present embodiment, an example has been described in which the probability in the present invention changes when the trigger symbol in the symbol table is replaced with a normal symbol or when a normal symbol is replaced with a trigger symbol (see FIG. 5 or FIG. 20). ). However, the processing related to the change in probability in the present invention is not limited to this example. In other words, the processing relating to the change in probability in the present invention may be the following example. One symbol table is selected from a plurality of symbol tables having different numbers of trigger symbols according to the stop mode of the trigger symbol, and a free game is played based on the selected symbol table.

In the present embodiment, the example in which the probability in the present invention is higher as the number of front-facing trigger symbols is larger has been described. However, the probability in the present invention is not limited to this example. That is, the smaller the number of front trigger symbols, the higher the probability in the present invention.

According to the gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment, since the probability that the retrigger is established is a probability corresponding to the stop mode of the trigger symbol 100, not only the predetermined condition is established for the player, but also the trigger It is also possible to have interest and interest in how the symbol 100 is stopped and displayed. In addition, a great expectation can be given to the fact that the trigger symbol 100 is stopped and displayed in such a stop mode that the probability that retrigger is established is high. This makes it possible to increase the player's interest and interest in the free game, and improve the fun of the game.

Further, according to the gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment, when three or more trigger symbols 100 are stopped and displayed in the base game, the display mode is changed between the front display mode and the reverse display mode. However, the trigger symbol 100 is displayed in a variable manner, and thereafter, the trigger symbol 100 is stopped and displayed in a face-up display mode or a face-down display mode. The probability that the retrigger is established is a probability corresponding to the number of trigger symbols 100 that are stopped and displayed in the face-up display mode. Therefore, the player can be greatly interested in how many trigger symbols 100 are stopped and displayed in the face-up display mode.
In addition, according to the gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment, when three or more trigger symbols 100 are stopped and displayed when a plurality of symbols are stopped, the occurrence of the free game is confirmed. Subsequently, as a second stage, the probability that a retrigger will be established during the free game is determined by the display mode of the trigger symbol 100 that is stopped and displayed. In other words, during the normal game, first, the player can be expected to stop and display three or more trigger symbols 100. Thereafter, when three or more trigger symbols 100 are stopped and displayed, it is possible to expect that the number of trigger symbols that are stopped and displayed in the face-up display mode will be such that the retrigger establishment probability is high. . In this way, the player's expectation can be increased step by step. The expectation that gradually increases makes it possible to promote the degree of excitement of the player with respect to the game, and the player can be immersed in the game.
Even if a predetermined condition is satisfied and the occurrence of a free game is determined, the probability of retrigger formation is low, and it is unfortunate for the player. Therefore, even after three or more trigger symbols 100 are stopped and displayed, the player can watch with tension that the trigger symbol 100 displayed in rotation is stopped and displayed. Then, depending on whether the number of trigger symbols stopped and displayed in the face-up display mode is such that the retrigger establishment probability is high or the retrigger establishment probability is low, the player may be pleased. , You can regret it. In this way, the player can experience various emotions through the game, so that the game can be fully enjoyed.

According to the gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment, when a predetermined condition is satisfied in the normal game, the normal symbol in the symbol row is replaced with the trigger symbol based on the stop mode of the trigger symbol 100 displayed in rotation, The trigger symbol is replaced with a normal symbol. This increases or decreases the number of trigger symbols in the symbol string. In the free game, the replacement symbol row is scrolled and the symbols are stopped and displayed, so that when the number of trigger symbols 100 is large, the probability of retrigger is high, and when the number of trigger symbols 100 is small. The retrigger establishment probability is low. That is, as a result, a predetermined condition is established with a probability corresponding to the stop mode of the trigger symbol 100 displayed in rotation. As described above, since the number of trigger symbols in the symbol string and the retrigger establishment probability correspond to each other, the frequency of the trigger symbol 100 appearing while scrolling is displayed. It is possible for the player to recognize the level of probability of retrigger establishment in the free game. In the free game, while watching the repeated scroll display, it is possible to strongly impress the player as to whether the retrigger establishment probability in the free game is high or low. As a result, in accordance with the player's impression regarding the level of the retrigger establishment probability, the player's expectation for the establishment of the retrigger can be varied. As a result, it is possible to make the player's emotions undulate and provide a game in which the player is less likely to get bored.

The embodiment of the present invention has been described above, but only specific examples are illustrated, and the present invention is not particularly limited. The specific configuration of each unit and the like can be appropriately changed. The effects described in the embodiments of the present invention are only the most preferable effects resulting from the present invention, and the effects of the present invention are limited to those described in the embodiments of the present invention. is not.

Further, in the above detailed description, the characteristic portions have been mainly described so that the present invention can be easily understood. The present invention is not limited to the embodiments described in the detailed description above, but can be applied to other embodiments, and the scope of application is various. The terms and terminology used in the present specification are used to accurately describe the present invention, and are not used to limit the interpretation of the present invention. Moreover, it would be easy for those skilled in the art to infer other configurations, systems, methods, and the like included in the concept of the present invention from the concept of the invention described in this specification. Accordingly, the description of the claims should be regarded as including an equivalent configuration without departing from the scope of the technical idea of the present invention. The purpose of the abstract is to simplify the technical contents and essence of this application by patent offices and general public institutions, and engineers belonging to this technical field who are not familiar with patents, legal terms or technical terms. It is intended to be able to make a quick judgment through a simple survey. Accordingly, the abstract is not intended to limit the scope of the invention to be evaluated by the claims. Moreover, in order to fully understand the object of the present invention and the specific effects of the present invention, it is desirable that the interpretation should be made with sufficient consideration of the literatures already disclosed.

The above detailed description includes processing executed by a computer. The above explanations and expressions are given for the purpose of enabling those skilled in the art to understand the most efficiently. In this specification, each step used to derive one result should be understood as a self-consistent process. In each step, transmission / reception, recording, and the like of electrical or magnetic signals are performed. In the processing in each step, such a signal is expressed by bits, values, symbols, characters, terms, numbers, etc., but these are used only for convenience of explanation. There is a need. In addition, the processing in each step may be described in an expression common to human behavior, but the processing described in this specification is executed by various devices in principle. Further, other configurations required for performing each step will be apparent from the above description.

1 Gaming Machine 3 Video Reel 11 Cabinet 15 Coin Tray 31 Spin Button 34 1-BET Button 35 Maximum BET Button 36 Coin Receiving Port 50 Gaming Board 70 Motherboard 71 Main CPU
72 ROM (Read Only Memory)
73 RAM (Random Access Memory)
100 trigger symbol 110 body PCB
115 Banknote Identifier 131 Lower Image Display Panel 141 Lower Image Display Panel 201 Message Display Area 390 Free Game Number Display Unit 400 Credit Number Display Unit 500 Game Explanation Image

Claims (4)

A gaming machine having the following configuration,
A symbol display device capable of variably displaying a plurality of symbols including a trigger symbol that triggers the generation of a free game, which is a game that is played even if the game medium is not bet, and a normal symbol;
A gaming machine comprising: a controller programmed to execute the following processes (A) to (C):
(A) After the game medium is betted, the symbol display device displays the change of the plurality of symbols, and then performs stop display, and pays an amount of game medium corresponding to the stop-displayed symbols or a combination thereof. The process of running a normal game,
(B) In the base game executed by the process (A), when a predetermined condition that the stop mode of the trigger symbol stopped and displayed is a predetermined stop mode is satisfied, A process of executing a free game in which the predetermined condition is established with a probability according to a stop mode; and
(C) A process of further executing the free game after executing the process (B) if the predetermined condition is satisfied in the free game before the execution of the process (B) is completed. A gaming machine having the following configuration,
While changing the display mode, it is possible to variably display a plurality of symbols including a trigger symbol that triggers the generation of a free game, which is a game that is played even if the game medium is not bet, and a normal symbol. A symbol display device capable of variably displaying the trigger symbol;
A gaming machine comprising: a controller programmed to execute the following processes (A) to (D):
(A) After the game medium is betted, the symbol display device displays the change of the plurality of symbols, and then performs stop display, and pays an amount of game medium corresponding to the stop-displayed symbols or a combination thereof. The process of running a normal game,
(B) In the base game executed by the process (A), when a predetermined condition that the stop mode of the trigger symbol stopped and displayed is a predetermined stop mode is satisfied, the display mode is changed while the display mode is changed. A process for stopping and displaying the trigger symbol in a specific display mode or other display mode after performing the trigger symbol variation display,
(C) a process of executing a free game in which the predetermined condition is established with a probability corresponding to the number of trigger symbols stopped and displayed in the specific display mode by the process (B); and
(D) A process of further executing the free game after executing the process (C) if the predetermined condition is satisfied in the free game before the execution of the process (C) is completed. The gaming machine according to claim 1,
The symbol display device includes:
It is possible to scroll and display a symbol string composed of the plurality of symbols,
The process (A)
After the game medium is bet, the symbol display device performs scroll display of the symbol row, then stops display, and executes a base game that pays an amount of game medium corresponding to the stopped display symbols or a combination thereof. Process
The controller further includes:
(D) When the predetermined condition is satisfied in the base game executed by the process (A), the number of base symbols corresponding to the stop mode of the trigger symbols that are stopped and displayed among the base symbols constituting the symbol row In the process of replacing a symbol with the trigger symbol, or in the process of replacing the number of trigger symbols corresponding to the stop mode of the stopped trigger symbol among the trigger symbols constituting the symbol string with the normal symbol. Yes,
The process (B)
This is a process of executing a free game in which a stop display is performed after scrolling the symbol row after the replacement in the process (D), and an amount of game media corresponding to the stopped symbols or a combination thereof is paid. A gaming machine control method having the following configuration,
(A) After a game medium is bet, a plurality of symbols including a trigger symbol that triggers the generation of a free game, which is a game that is played even if the game medium is not bet, and a normal symbol may be displayed variably. Performing a base game for performing a stop display after performing a variable display of the plurality of symbols by a possible symbol display device, and paying an amount of game media according to the stopped display symbols or a combination thereof,
(B) In the base game executed in the step (A), when a predetermined condition that the stop mode of the trigger symbol stopped and displayed is a predetermined stop mode is satisfied, Executing a free game in which the predetermined condition is satisfied with a probability according to a stop mode; and
(C) If the predetermined condition is satisfied in the free game before the execution of the step (B) is completed, the method further includes the step of executing the free game after executing the step (B).

Images