JP2013192747A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To allow a certain degree of progress of a game even when a performance device needs a load time when powered on a game machine, and to prevent inconvenience in which a player cannot receive an advantage by a notification performance.SOLUTION: A game machine includes: a preparation time measurement means 122 measuring a preset preparation time as a time until a performance device 6 can execute a prescribed performance based on operation information output from a sub controller 22; and a game progress stop means 120 performing control such that the rotation of rotary reels 40 do not stop by operations of stop switches 50 until the time measurement of the preparation measurement means 122 ends.

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine in which a lottery for winning determination is performed, a rotating reel starts rotating by operating a start switch, and stops rotating by operating a stop switch.

In this type of gaming machine, for example, a slot machine, various effect devices are used to provide effects related to games. And the control part (sub control apparatus) which controls the action | operation of this production | presentation apparatus, and the control part (main control apparatus) which control games, such as rotation and a stop of a rotation reel, and a winning determination, are each provided.
In the effect device, for example, a liquid crystal display device can display a predetermined effect image based on a command or transmission information output from a control unit that controls the operation of the effect device after the power is turned on. In some cases, a certain time (so-called load time) is required. On the other hand, the control unit that controls the game is activated at an earlier stage and is in a state in which the game can be executed. Therefore, a situation in which the game is performed without producing the effect display may occur. In such a case, the progress of the game is stopped during the loading time of the liquid crystal display device in order to prevent the player from seeing the effect display related to the game. Patent Document 1).

JP 2010-2000873 A

However, depending on the performance of the liquid crystal display device, the load time may require several tens of seconds, and not accepting the game operation completely during this time is not preferable because it forces the player to use unnecessary time.
Therefore, the present invention can advance the game to some extent even when a predetermined time is required until the effect device can execute the predetermined effect display when the gaming machine is turned on. The purpose is to prevent the inconvenience of not being able to receive the benefit of the notification effect.

The features of the present invention will be described below using the embodiments of the present invention shown in the drawings.
In addition, the code | symbol in parenthesis shows the code | symbol used in embodiment of invention, and does not limit the technical scope of this invention.
(Claim 1)
The invention described in claim 1 includes a plurality of rotating reels (40) displaying a plurality of symbols, a start switch (30) for starting rotation of the plurality of rotating reels (40), and the rotation during rotation. A plurality of stop switches (50) for individually stopping the reel (40), an effect device (6) for performing an effect accompanying the progress of the game, and a start associated with a predetermined symbol combination In accordance with the operation of the switch (30), the role lottery of whether to win or not is performed, and the rotation and stop of the rotating reel (40) are controlled based on the operation of the start switch (30) and stop switch (40). The main control device (21) and the main control device (21) are formed so as to be able to input signals in one line, and based on the output information from the main control device (21), the effect device ( At least a sub-control device (22) for controlling the operation of 6) The main control device (21) is capable of storing game control information related to a game before the power is turned off, and the sub control device (22) is an effect control related to an effect before the power is turned off. The present invention relates to a gaming machine configured to be capable of storing information and capable of outputting operation information for operating the effect device (6) based on the stored effect control information when the power is turned on.

The main control device (21) is preliminarily set as the time until the rendering device (6) can execute a predetermined rendering based on the operation information output from the sub-control device (22) after the power is turned on. Until the time measurement by the preparation time measuring means (hour measuring means 122) for measuring the set preparation time and the preparation time measuring means (122) is completed, the rotary reel (40) is operated by operating the stop switch (50). ) Is provided with game progress stopping means (120) that can be controlled so as not to stop rotating.
(Function)
The rendering device (6) according to the present invention includes a liquid crystal display device (67), for example, which requires a certain time until it can be activated by an output signal from the sub-control device (22) after turning on the power. It is not limited to the display device (67).

In the present invention, the main control device (21) and the sub-control device (22) can store predetermined information before the power is turned off. “Before power is cut off” means the period from when the voltage supplied to the main control device (21) and the sub control device (22) falls below a predetermined threshold until the supply voltage becomes zero. It is.
In the present invention, the game progress stopping means (120) is configured so that the rotating reel (40) is turned on even when the stop switch (50) is operated during the time measurement (during preparation time) of the preparation time measuring means (122). It can be prevented from stopping. As a method of “not stopping the rotating reel (40)”, the operation of the stop switch (50) is controlled by disabling the reception of the operation signal of the stop switch (50) or ignoring it even if it is received (not accepted). Disabling or accepting the operation signal of the stop switch (50), but delaying the time until the drive motor that rotates the rotating reel (40) stops (retaining the rotation stop of the rotating reel (40) ). When the operation of the stop switch (50) is invalidated, the rotating reel (40) stops rotating by the operation of the stop switch (50) again after the preparation time has elapsed. If the rotation stop of the rotating reel (40) based on the operation signal of the stop switch (50) is reserved, the rotating reel (40) stops rotating after the preparation time elapses regardless of the operation of the stop switch (50) again. To do.

In addition, in the present invention, after the power is turned on, during the preparation time until the rendering device (6) becomes operable, game operations other than the stop switch (50) (for example, medal insertion, bet switch (16) or start) It is possible to operate the switch (30). In other words, even before the preparatory time has elapsed, it is possible to rotate the rotary reel (40) after performing the lottery based on the operation of the start switch (40).
Here, in the case where a notification effect regarding the result of the role lottery is performed using the effect device (6), the effect is not performed due to the effect device (6) being prepared for operation. May suffer disadvantages. For example, there is a case where the game progresses without confirming the game state suggested by the effect because the effect suggesting the game state is not performed.

According to the present invention, during the preparation time of the rendering device (6), the operation of the stop switch (50) directly related to the game result of stopping the rotating reel (40) is disabled, or the rotating reel (40) is rotated. By retaining the suspension, it is possible to prevent the game result from becoming an unfavorable result. On the other hand, it is possible to quickly start the game after the lapse of the preparation time by not stopping the progress of other games even before the lapse of the preparation time.
(Claim 2)
The invention described in claim 2 includes a plurality of rotating reels (40) displaying a plurality of symbols, a start switch (30) for starting rotation of the plurality of rotating reels (40), and the rotation during rotation. A plurality of stop switches (50) for individually stopping the reel (40), an effect device (6) for performing an effect accompanying the progress of the game, and a start associated with a predetermined symbol combination In accordance with the operation of the switch (30), the role lottery of whether to win or not is performed, and the rotation and stop of the rotating reel (40) are controlled based on the operation of the start switch (30) and stop switch (40). The main control device (21) and the main control device (21) are formed so as to be able to input signals in one line, and based on the output information from the main control device (21), the effect device ( At least a sub-control device (22) for controlling the operation of 6) The main control device (21) is capable of storing game control information related to a game before the power is turned off, and the sub control device (22) is an effect control related to an effect before the power is turned off. The present invention relates to a gaming machine configured to be capable of storing information and capable of outputting operation information for operating the effect device (6) based on the stored effect control information when the power is turned on.

The main control device (21) is preliminarily set as the time until the rendering device (6) can execute a predetermined rendering based on the operation information output from the sub-control device (22) after the power is turned on. Until the time measurement by the preparation time measurement means (hour measurement means 122) for measuring the set preparation time and the preparation time measurement means (122) is completed, the rotary reel (40) is operated by operating the start switch (30). ) Is provided with a game progress stop means (120) that can be controlled so as not to start rotation.
(Function)
In the present invention, the game progress stopping means (120) does not rotate the rotating reel (40) even if the start switch (30) is operated during the time measurement (during preparation time) of the preparation time measuring means (122). Can be. As a method of “not rotating the rotating reel (40)”, an operation signal of the start switch (30) is received, but the time until the driving motor for rotating the rotating reel (40) starts driving is delayed (rotating reel). (40) The start of rotation is reserved) and the operation of the start switch (30) is disabled by disabling the reception of the operation signal of the start switch (30) or ignoring even if it is received (not accepted). Can be mentioned. When the start of rotation of the rotating reel (40) based on the operation signal of the start switch (30) is reserved, the rotating reel (40) starts rotating after the preparation time elapses regardless of the operation of the start switch (30) again. To do. When the operation of the start switch (30) is invalidated, the rotating reel (40) starts rotating by the operation of the start switch (30) again after the preparation time has elapsed. In the latter case, the lottery may be performed in response to the operation of the start switch (30) even if the rotation of the rotating reel (40) does not start by the operation of the start switch (30).
In the present invention, after the power is turned on, during the preparation time until the rendering device (6) becomes operable, game operations other than the start switch (30) (for example, medal insertion and bet switch (16) operation) ) Is possible. If the preparation time has not elapsed, the rotating reel (40) does not start rotating, and the stop switch (50) cannot be operated.

According to the present invention, during the preparation time of the rendering device (6), the operation of the start switch (30) is invalidated, or the rotation start of the rotary reel (40) is reserved, so that the preparation time is reduced. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the stop result (50) directly related to the game result from being operated and prevent the game result from being adversely affected. On the other hand, it is possible to quickly start the game after the lapse of the preparation time by not stopping the progress of other games even before the lapse of the preparation time.
(Claim 3)
The invention described in claim 3 has the following configuration in addition to the configuration of the invention described in claim 1. That is, the operation mode of the stop switch (50) is associated with the lottery result of the role lottery, and the main control device (21) operates the stop switch (50) as a result of the role lottery. When the stop switch (50) is operated in the operation mode associated with the lottery result when the mode becomes the lottery result associated with the mode, and the stop switch in the operation mode other than the operation mode The stop control of the rotary reel (40) is formed so as to be controllable so that the combination of symbols to be displayed is different when the (50) is operated, and the sub-control device (22) is configured to produce the effect device (6 ) Using auxiliary effect control means (AT control means 210) for controlling execution of a predetermined auxiliary effect relating to the operation mode of the stop switch (60), and the game progress stopping means (120) is a role in the game. The result of the lottery is When the operation mode of the stop switch (50) corresponds to the lottery result, the rotary reel is operated by the operation of the stop switch (50) until the time measurement of the preparation time measuring means (122) is completed. (40) is controlled so as not to stop rotating.

(Function)
The present invention relates to a gaming machine in which an operation mode of a stop switch (50) is notified using a rendering device (6). The “operation mode of the stop switch (50)” includes the operation order and operation timing. In the auxiliary production, the operation order, the type and color of the symbol corresponding to the winning combination (the symbol to be pressed) Notification is performed. When the stop switch (50) is operated in the operation mode associated with the lottery result, a predetermined number of game media are paid out by winning, for example, in an operation mode other than the operation mode associated with the lottery result When the stop switch (50) is operated, for example, a setting may be made such that no winning is made or a winning combination with a small number of payout game media is won. Alternatively, when the stop switch (50) is operated in the operation mode associated with the lottery result, the game proceeds to an advantageous gaming state, and the stop switch (in the operation mode other than the operation mode associated with the lottery result ( When 50) is operated, it can be set so as to shift to an unfavorable gaming state or to prevent the gaming state from shifting.

In the present invention, only when the combination associated with the operation mode of the stop switch (50) is won, the stop switch (50 ) Will not work. That is, in other cases, the game can proceed as usual even before the preparation time has elapsed. In this way, when the contents of the production do not directly affect the game result or the subsequent state change, the player can be allowed to proceed, thereby avoiding unnecessary waiting time for the player.
(Claim 4)
The invention described in claim 4 has the following configuration in addition to the configuration of the invention described in claim 2. That is, the operation mode of the stop switch (50) is associated with the lottery result of the role lottery, and the main control device (21) operates the stop switch (50) as a result of the role lottery. When the stop switch (50) is operated in the operation mode associated with the lottery result when the mode becomes the lottery result associated with the mode, and the stop switch in the operation mode other than the operation mode The stop control of the rotary reel (40) is formed so as to be controllable so that the combination of symbols to be displayed is different when the (50) is operated, and the sub-control device (22) is configured to produce the effect device (6 ) Using auxiliary effect control means (AT control means 210) for controlling execution of a predetermined auxiliary effect relating to the operation mode of the stop switch (60), and the game progress stopping means (120) is a role in the game. The result of the lottery is If the operation mode of the stop switch (50) corresponds to the lottery result, the rotating reel is operated by the operation of the start switch (30) until the time measurement of the preparation time measuring means (122) is completed. (40) is controlled so as not to start rotation.

(Function)
The present invention is based on the premise that during the preparation time, the rotating reel (40) does not start rotating by the operation of the start switch (30), but the lottery is performed in response to the operation of the start switch (30). Yes.
In the present invention, only when the combination associated with the operation mode of the stop switch (50) is won, the start switch (30 ) Will not work. That is, in other cases, the game can proceed as usual even before the preparation time has elapsed. In this way, when the contents of the production do not directly affect the game result or the subsequent state change, the player can be allowed to proceed, thereby avoiding unnecessary waiting time for the player.

  Since the present invention is configured as described above, even when a predetermined time is required until the effect device can execute the predetermined effect display when the gaming machine is turned on, the game is played to some extent. It is possible to prevent the inconvenience that the player can proceed and that the player cannot receive the profit from the notification effect.

FIG. 4 is an external front view of the slot machine according to the embodiment of the present invention. 2 is a block diagram showing an input, output and control device of the slot machine. It is a flowchart which shows the main process and sub process at the time of a power failure. It is a flowchart which shows the main process at the time of power activation. It is a flowchart which shows the sub process at the time of power activation. 4 is a flowchart showing an outline of the operation of the slot machine. 4 is a flowchart showing a control example 1 of reel rotation start processing in the operation of the slot machine. 4 is a flowchart showing a control example 2 of reel rotation start processing in the operation of the slot machine.

A preferred embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings, taking a slot machine as an example of a gaming machine.
(Slot machine 10)
As shown in FIG. 1, the slot machine 10 includes a rectangular box-shaped casing 11 that opens on the front side, and a front door 3 that can open and close and lock the front opening of the casing 11.
Inside the housing 11, a reel unit 60 having three rotating reels 40 is installed at the upper part of the opening, and a hopper unit 65 and the power supply device 5 are provided at the lower part of the opening. A control device 20 for controlling the overall operation of the slot machine 10 is disposed above the reel unit 60.

  The front door 3 is a plate-like door that is rotatably attached to the housing 11 via a hinge (not shown) in the horizontal direction. As shown in FIG. 1, the front door 3 is provided with a front panel 12 facing the player side. The front panel 12 can visually recognize the symbols of the three rotary reels 40. A symbol display window 13 is formed. Below the symbol display window 13 and in the center of the slot machine 10 in the height direction is a counter-like operation unit 3A provided with an operation switch for operating the slot machine 10. A medal slot 14 is provided at the right end of the portion 3A. A lower plate 3B for receiving medals paid out from the hopper unit 65 is provided at the lower part of the front door 3. A medal selector 4 is provided below the medal slot 14 and behind the front door 3 for detecting the inserted medal and determining the medal.

The reel unit 60 includes three stepping motors (not shown) fixed to a frame housed in the housing 11 and three rotary reels 40 attached to the output shaft of each stepping motor. It is configured. Here, when the individual rotary reels 40 are specified and described for the three rotary reels 40, the rotary reel 40 located on the left side when viewed from the front is referred to as the left reel 41, and the rotation located in the center. The reel 40 is referred to as a middle reel 42, the rotating reel 40 located on the right side is referred to as a right reel 43, and when the individual rotating reels 40 are not specified, they are simply referred to as rotating reels 40.
Each rotary reel 40 includes a rotary drum made of a synthetic resin and a tape-like reel tape attached around the rotary drum. On the surface of the reel tape, although not particularly shown, 21 symbols such as “7”, “Replay”, “Watermelon”, and “Bell” are displayed for each rotating reel 40.

When the slot machine 10 is viewed from the front, three symbols of each rotary reel 40 can be visually recognized from the symbol display window 13. Specifically, on the left side of the symbol display window 13, among the symbols of the left reel 41, a symbol located in the upper stage, a symbol located in the middle stage, and a symbol located in the lower stage can be seen. In the center, among the symbols of the middle reel 42, you can see the symbols located in the upper row, the symbols located in the middle row, the symbols located in the lower row, and on the right side of the symbol display window 13, the symbols of the right reel 43 Among them, a symbol positioned at the upper level, a symbol positioned at the middle level, and a symbol positioned at the lower level can be seen.
Further, although not particularly illustrated, each rotary reel 40 is provided with a start index as a detection unit that is detected by an index sensor 60A (see FIG. 2) provided in the reel unit 60. The start index can be, for example, a projecting piece provided on the inside of the rotating drum or on the spoke connecting the rotating drum and the reel motor.

As shown in FIG. 1, the hopper unit 65 is a payout device provided inside the housing 11, and is for paying out medals to the player based on the result of the game. The power supply device 5 is for turning on / off the main power supply of the slot machine 10. The power supply device 5 includes a power supply board having a power generation circuit and the like housed in an outer box. A power switch is provided in front of the outer box, and when the power switch is turned on, a predetermined voltage is supplied to each of the main control device 21 and the sub control device 22 (see FIG. 2). ).
Here, as the operation switches, as shown in FIG. 1, a bet switch 16, a settlement switch 17, a start switch 30, and a stop switch 50 are provided. As the operation switch, there may be provided an effect selection switch capable of performing selection related to the effect performed by the slot machine 10 by the operation.

The bet switch 16 is a button switch provided on the left side of the upper surface of the counter-like operation unit 3A, and is used for replacing a credit with a medal insertion. Here, the credit means that a medal for use in the next game or later is stored in the gaming machine in advance, and the slot machine 10 can receive a game medal inserted from the medal slot 14 or a game result. A maximum of 50 game medals to be paid out based on the game machine can be stored inside the game machine.
The settlement switch 17 is a button switch provided at the upper left end of the operation unit 3A and is used for paying out credits.

The start switch 30 is a lever-like switch provided on the front left side of the operation unit 3A, and is for starting the rotation of the rotary reel 40. Although not shown in the figure, a contact sensor or a light shielding sensor for detecting the movement of the lever is provided on the inside of the housing of the start switch 30 so that the detection signal of the sensor is handled as an operation signal for the start switch 30. It has become.
The stop switch 50 is three button switches provided at the front center portion of the operation unit 3A, and is for stopping the rotating reel 40 during rotation. Here, when the individual stop switches 50 are specified and described for the three stop switches 50, the stop switch 50 located on the left side when viewed from the front is referred to as the left stop switch 51 and is located in the center. The stop switch 50 is referred to as an intermediate stop switch 52, the stop switch 50 located on the right side is referred to as a right stop switch 53, and when the individual stop switches 50 are not specified, they are simply referred to as stop switches 50. The three stop switches 50 are provided corresponding to the three rotary reels 40, respectively. Specifically, the left reel 41 corresponds to the left stop switch 51, the middle reel 42 corresponds to the middle stop switch 52, and the right reel 43 corresponds to the right stop switch 53. Although not shown in the drawing, a contact sensor or a light shielding sensor for detecting the position movement of the button is provided on the inside of the housing of each stop switch 50, and the detection signal of the sensor is handled as an operation signal for each stop switch 50. It has come to be. The left reel 41 can be stopped by operating the left stop switch 51, the middle reel 42 can be stopped by operating the middle stop switch 52, and the right reel 43 can be stopped by operating the right stop switch 53. Can do.

(Control device 20)
Although not shown in the figure, the control device 20 includes a control board provided with a CPU, ROM, RAM, I / O, etc. in a board case. Here, the number of CPUs is not limited to one and may be controlled by two or more CPUs. Further, the CPU, ROM, RAM, I / O, and the like may be integrated to form a one chip. Then, when the CPU reads the program stored in the ROM, the main control device 21 and the sub control device 22 are configured as shown in FIG.
(Main controller 21)
The main control device 21 is for controlling the rotation and stop of the rotary reel 40 by operating the start switch 30 and the stop switch 50. As shown in FIG. 2, the medal sensor 15, the bet switch 16, the settlement switch 17, the start switch 30, the stop switch 50, and the index sensor 60A are connected to the input side of the main controller 21. Here, as shown in FIG. 1, the medal sensor 15 is a detection sensor built in the medal selector 4 and detects the passage of the inserted game medal. On the other hand, the reel unit 60 and the hopper unit 65 are connected to the output side of the control device 20 as shown in FIG.

Then, as shown in FIG. 2, the main control device 21 includes a combination lottery means 70, a game state transition control means 80, a reel control means 90, a game result determination means 100, a hopper control means 110, a game progress stop means 120, a main It functions as the power monitoring means 130, the game control information storage means 140, and the game control information output means 150.
(Role lottery means 70)
The combination lottery means 70 determines whether or not the predetermined “comb” associated with the symbol combination displayed on the plurality of rotating reels 40 has been won by lottery. A table and determination means are provided. Then, at the timing of receiving the operation signal of the start switch 30, the count extracting means (not shown) reads the numerical value of the loop counter, and the determining means compares this numerical value with the role lottery table to determine the presence / absence of winning. is there.

  The slot machine 10 wins when a predetermined symbol combination is aligned on the active line by the operation of the stop switch 50, and is awarded a profit corresponding to the combination. In the present embodiment, a small symbol (for example, a watermelon character, a bell character, etc.) in which a predetermined symbol (for example, a watermelon symbol, a bell symbol, etc.) is associated as the combination and a predetermined number of game medals are paid out by winning a prize. And a predetermined symbol (for example, a replay symbol) and a re-game player who can play a game again without newly inserting a game medal in the next game by winning, and a predetermined symbol (for example, seven symbols). Are associated with each other and a bonus combination for shifting to a bonus game by winning a prize is provided. As the bonus combination, an RB game combination that shifts to a regular bonus game (RB game) by winning and a BB game combination that shifts to a big bonus game (BB game) by winning. The RB game is a game period that is set to increase the winning probability of a small role, and ends when a predetermined number of games are consumed or a predetermined number of wins are won. The BB game is a game period that is set so that the RB game is continuously performed, and ends when the number of paid-out medals exceeds a predetermined number.

  Here, the effective line is a line that can connect three symbols in total of three vertically and three horizontally visible from the symbol display window 13 among the symbols displayed on the three rotating reels 40 one by one. Among the (winning line), it is a line that defines the arrangement of symbol combinations that are effective for winning. As the winning line, the upper line connecting the symbols located at the upper stage of each rotating reel 40, the middle line connecting the symbols located at the middle stage of each rotating reel 40, the lower line connecting the symbols located at the lower stage of each rotating reel 40, A line that rises to the right connecting the symbol located at the lower stage of the left reel 41, the symbol located at the middle stage of the middle reel 42, and the symbol located at the upper stage of the right reel 43, and the symbol located at the upper stage of the left reel 41 and the middle reel 42. A right-down line or the like that connects a symbol located in the middle stage and a symbol located in the lower stage of the right reel 43 can be provided. The slot machine 10 can bet (multiply) a maximum of three medals per game. When three medals are betted, each winning line becomes active and becomes an active line. It is. Note that the number of valid lines may be changed depending on the number of bets.

The winning lottery table defines the count value of the loop counter (for example, 0 to 65535) as the entire area, and a predetermined numerical area is defined as the winning area corresponding to the role. For each ball setting, a plurality of combination lottery tables provided according to the gaming state are provided. When performing the above-described winning determination, the winning lottery table corresponding to the set value and the gaming state of the slot machine 10 is referred to.
Specifically, the role lottery table includes a normal lottery table referred to in a normal state, an RT lottery table used in an RT state, a bonus lottery table referred to in a bonus state, and a bonus referred to in a bonus internal state. There is an internal lottery table, which is provided for each setting.

Here, the normal state is a game state of the initial setting (at the time of shipment or after setting change) of the slot machine 10, and the RT state is set so that the winning probability of the re-gamer is different from the normal state. A game state in which a bonus flag is carried over, and a bonus state is a game state in which a bonus game is played.
Each winning lottery table has a winning area and a lost area. For example, in each of the normal combination lottery table and the RT combination lottery table, a winning area for each bonus combination, a winning area for a small combination, and a winning area for a re-playing combination are set in predetermined ranges (with a predetermined probability). ing. In the internal middle role lottery table, the winning area of the small role is set in the same range (same probability) as the normal role lottery table, and the winning area of the re-playing role is in a predetermined range (with a predetermined probability). Is set. During the bonus, BB and RB win determination is not performed. Further, in the bonus combination lottery table, a winning area for a small combination is set in a predetermined range (with a predetermined probability).

  As a winning area, in addition to a single winning area that is a winning area associated with one combination, an overlapping winning area associated with a plurality of types of winning combinations can be set. For example, each of the winning lottery tables excluding the bonus winning lottery table is set with a plurality (for example, three) of overlapping winning areas in which a plurality of types of specific small roles (for example, bells) are won simultaneously. In addition, three operation sequences (pushing order) based on the three stop switches 50 of the left stop switch 51, the middle stop switch 52, and the right stop switch 53 are assigned to the plurality of overlapping winning areas, respectively. . The assigned push order is the correct push order for each winning state. And if any of the overlapping winning areas wins, the presence or absence of winning and the symbol combination that can be displayed will change depending on whether or not the stop operation was performed in the correct push order, It will be described later.

Note that the setting of the push order is not limited to the above-described three ways, and six overlapping winning areas having different combinations of combinations included in the same area are provided, for example, and six ways based on the three stop switches 50. The pressing order (left middle right, left / right middle, middle left / right, middle right left, right middle left, right left middle) can be assigned to each of the six overlapping winning areas. In addition, the combination in which the push order is set is not limited to the small combination, and a plurality of replaying combinations may be provided, and the replaying combination may be set in the same manner as described above.
In the present embodiment, in the RT combination lottery table, the winning probability of the re-game combination is set to be higher than that of the normal combination lottery table. As a result, in a game in which the game state is the RT state, the number of replays in which a game can be played without a bet increases, and the winning probability of the small role does not change, so that the player's medals are less lost.

Note that an RT combination lottery table in which the winning probability of the re-game combination is different from both the normal combination lottery table and the RT combination lottery table may be provided so that a plurality of types of RT states can be executed.
Here, if any combination wins as a result of the lottery, a winning flag corresponding to the winning is established. When the winning combination is a small combination, a small combination flag (watermelon flag, bell flag, etc.) is set, when a bonus combination is set, a bonus flag (BB flag, RB flag) is set. When a winning combination is set, a replay flag is set. To do. The small combination flag and the replay flag are reset only for one game, but the bonus flag is not reset until the bonus combination is won. That is, in the case of winning a bonus combination, the right to win is carried over after the next game. In addition, when the overlapping winning area is won, the winning flags corresponding to the respective combinations included in the area are established.

(Game state transition control means 80)
The gaming state transition control means 80 is for controlling the transition of the gaming state according to a predetermined condition. Here, as the predetermined condition for the game state transition, one condition may be defined, or a plurality of conditions may be defined. When a plurality of conditions are established, transitioning the gaming state to another gaming state based on the fact that one of the plurality of conditions is satisfied or all of the plurality of conditions are satisfied Can do.
Specifically, the game state transition control means 80 determines the transition to the bonus internal state based on the lottery result of the combination lottery means 70, and ends the bonus internal state based on the determination result of the game result determination means 100. , Transition to bonus state, operation of re-game, transition to predetermined RT state or termination (transition to other RT state or return to normal state), and based on the measured value of a game counter (not shown) The end of the bonus state (return to the normal state or the predetermined RT state), the end of the predetermined RT state, and the like are determined.

  In addition, the gaming state transition control means 80 stores the current gaming state by setting a state flag corresponding to the gaming state. The status flag includes a bonus internal medium flag, a bonus operation flag (BB operation flag, RB operation flag), and an RT flag. The bonus internal medium flag is set based on the decision to shift to the bonus internal state, and is reset based on the decision to shift to the bonus state. The bonus operation flag is set based on the decision to shift to the bonus state, and is reset when the bonus state ends. The RT flag is set based on the decision to shift to a predetermined RT state, and is reset based on the decision to end the RT state. In the normal state, the normal state flag may be set, or the state flag may not be particularly set.

Further, the game state transition control means 80 is configured to be able to set a re-game operation flag in addition to the state flag described above. The re-game operation flag is set based on the re-game operation decision, and is reset when one re-game is completed. A period from when the re-game operation flag is set to when it is reset is called a re-game operation.
Then, according to the set state flag, the combination lottery means 70 selects the corresponding combination lottery table and performs the combination lottery, so that a predetermined game state such as a normal state, a bonus state, and an RT state is activated. That is, the role lottery means 70 selects the normal role lottery table when the state flag is not established, and selects the internal middle role lottery table when the bonus internal / middle flag is established, and operates the bonus operation. A bonus combination lottery table (not shown) is selected when the flag is established, and an RT combination lottery table is selected when the RT flag is established.

When the re-game operation flag is set, it is treated that a specified number of medals are automatically inserted (automatic bet) before the next game starts. Specifically, regardless of the operation of the bet switch 16 or the insertion of medals, a bet display (display of the number of pieces to be multiplied) is displayed on a predetermined bet display section (not shown), and the subsequent operation of the start switch 30 becomes possible.
(Reel control means 90)
The reel control means 90 is for controlling the rotation and stop of the rotary reel 40 based on the operation signals of the start switch 30 and the stop switch 50. Although not shown, the rotation control means and the stop control means are provided. At least.

  The rotation control means is for driving the stepping motor of the reel unit 60 to rotate the rotating reel 40 when a valid operation signal of the start switch 30 is received. Specifically, when an operation signal for the start switch 30 is input while a specified number of bets have been placed, a predetermined time (4.1 seconds, so-called wait time) from the start of rotation of the rotating reel 40 in the previous game. As a result, the rotation pulses of all the rotating reels 40 are started simultaneously or in a predetermined order by outputting a driving pulse to each stepping motor. A drive pulse for starting the driving of the stepping motor is referred to as a start signal. When the rotation speeds of all the reels 40 reach a predetermined steady rotation speed (for example, 80 rpm), constant speed rotation is performed at this steady rotation speed.

  The stop control means grasps the current rotation angle of the rotary reel 40 based on a detection signal of an index sensor (not shown) for detecting the rotation of the rotary reel 40 provided in the reel unit 60, and stops the stop switch 50. The symbol located on the predetermined effective line can be identified from the rotation angle of the rotary reel 40 at the time when is operated. Then, with the specified symbol as a reference, the corresponding rotating reel 40 is stopped within a range from the reference symbol to a symbol when a predetermined number (maximum number of sliding frames, for example, four frames) is moved in the rotation direction. Is formed. In other words, in the stop control means, the amount of rotation that the rotating reel 40 rotates from when the stop switch 50 is operated until the corresponding rotating reel 40 stops falls within a predetermined number of frames. Thus, the drive stop of the stepping motor is controlled. Specifically, when the reference symbol may be stopped at that position, the rotating reel 40 is stopped as it is, and when it is not allowed to stop at that position, the time until the rotating reel 40 stops is set. Slowly, kick the winning symbol from the active line and stop. When the winning symbol is included in the range of the maximum number of smooth frames, the time until the rotating reel 40 stops is delayed, and the winning symbol is drawn on the active line and stopped.

  Here, the stop control means sets in advance which of the plurality of winning combinations is to be drawn preferentially in the pull-in control when a plurality of winning flags are simultaneously established. For example, the pull-in priority when different types of winning combinations are won simultaneously is set to re-playing combination> small combination> bonus combination. Specifically, if a bonus combination and a small combination are elected at the same time, the small combination is given priority, and if a bonus combination and a replay combination are selected at the same time, the replay combination is selected. Pull in preferentially. By the way, although not applicable in this embodiment, when a small role and a re-playing role are formed so that they can be won simultaneously (when there are overlapping winning areas of a small role and a re-playing role in the role lottery table, In the gaming state in which the game is such that, regardless of the lottery result, the re-game combination can be given priority when the small role and the re-play game combination are won simultaneously.

  Further, the pull-in control when the same type of winning combination is won simultaneously, that is, when the winning area in which the pressing order is set is won will be described. If a winning area with a pressing order is selected and each stop switch 50 is operated in the correct answer pressing order assigned to the winning area, The symbol that constitutes the symbol combination associated with the symbol that is positioned as a symbol is placed on the active line in preference to the symbol that constitutes the symbol combination that is associated with a symbol other than the correct answer symbol (illegal answer). Perform pull-in control. Here, the symbols constituting the symbol combination associated with the correct combination are arranged on all the rotating reels 40 without an interval greater than the maximum number of smooth frames. As a result, the correct answerer always wins. On the other hand, the symbols constituting the symbol combination associated with the illegally unraveling are not arranged on all the rotary reels 40 without an interval equal to or greater than the maximum number of smooth frames. If the stop switch 50 is operated in a pressing order other than the correct answer pressing order (incorrect answer pressing order), the timing of the operation of the stop switch 50 can draw the incorrect answer symbol on the active line. In this case, the control for drawing the incorrect answer symbol on the active line is performed in preference to the correct answer symbol. For this reason, depending on the operation timing of the stop switch 50, it may not be possible to win an illegal answer.

In this way, when the winning area for which the pressing order is set is won, when the stop switch 50 is operated in the correct answer pressing order set in the winning area, the correct answerer always wins a predetermined prize. Profit can be obtained, but if the stop switch 50 is operated in the order of pushing the incorrect answer, the wrong answerer may not win, so if you can get the same profit as operating in the order of pushing the correct answer Is no longer limited.
The correct answer combination and the incorrect answer combination may be set to have the same number of medals to be paid out by winning, or may be set to have a smaller number of medals to be paid out by the incorrect answer combination. In this case, it may be set so that illegal fraud can be withdrawn if it is won. In addition, the payouts of the same winning teams are the same, but if the correct answer is pressed, multiple roles will be won in duplicate, and if the incorrect answer is pressed, only a single role will be won, or neither will be won. May be.

The stop control means performs the above-described control using priority determination data for specifying a stop position candidate based on the priority, and how many frames the symbol is rotated from the reference symbol to stop the rotary reel 40. Based on the result of the lottery and the operation timing of the stop switch 50, it is performed based on the stop table defined on the table for each winning symbol.
(Game result judging means 100)
The game result determining means 100 is for determining the result of the game when all the rotating reels 40 are stopped by the operation of the stop switch 50.
Specifically, based on the information of the stop symbol stored in the symbol determination means 93, whether or not the combination of symbols arranged on the active line is associated with a predetermined combination, or the transition of the gaming state Judge whether it is an opportunity. When it is determined that the symbol combination associated with the predetermined combination is displayed on the active line, it is determined that the winning combination is made, and the symbol combination that triggers the transition to the gaming state (for example, when the predetermined combination is missed) When it is determined that the blank symbol displayed on the active line is displayed on the active line, the transition of the gaming state is determined, and the determination result information is transmitted to the hopper control means 110 and the gaming state transition control means 80. The hopper control means 110 that has received the determination result information performs a payout process for winning medals, and the gaming state transition control means 80 performs a transition process to a bonus state or an RT state, or a re-game operation process. Further, by outputting a predetermined signal to the sub-control device 22, it is possible to perform a predetermined effect at the start of a winning or bonus game by the liquid crystal display device 67, the lamp 68, or the speaker 69.

(Hopper control means 110)
The hopper control means 110 operates the hopper unit 65 and pays out medals based on the determination result of the game result determination means 100 and the operation of the settlement switch 17. In other words, when the game result determination means 100 determines the winning of the payout small role, the medal corresponding to the small role winning is paid out, and when the checkout switch 17 is operated when there are 1 or more credits, it is stored as credits. The medal that has been made is to be paid out.
(Game progress stopping means 120)
The game progress stop means 120 is a series of game progress (from a bet to the start of rotation of the rotary reel 40 based on the operation of the start switch 30 and the stop of the rotary reel 40 based on the operation of the stop switch 50 in accordance with predetermined conditions. As shown in FIG. 2, a progress stop determination means 121, a time measurement means 122, and an operation invalidation means 123 are provided.

The progress stop determining means 121 is for determining whether or not a predetermined condition for temporarily stopping the progress of the game is satisfied. As a predetermined condition for temporarily stopping the progress of the game, the game can be stopped, for example, when the wait time has not elapsed since the start of the previous game (the rotation of the rotating reel 40) or when the rotating reel 40 is accelerating. Or when the hopper unit 65 is in operation or when a predetermined error has occurred.
The time measuring means 122 is a timer that performs time counting for a predetermined time. The time measuring means 122 includes a wait timer for measuring the wait time described above. The time measuring means 122 may include a plurality of timers, and the single timer may function as a plurality of timers for measuring a plurality of set times in which the measurement times do not overlap.

  The operation invalidating unit 123 sets a predetermined operation invalid state and controls to cancel the operation invalid state. The operation invalid state is a state in which even if an operation is performed, a result relating to the game progress that should be obtained by the operation cannot be obtained. In order to set the operation invalid state, the medal selector 4 is set in the cancel state so that the medal inserted from the medal insertion slot 14 is not detected by the medal sensor (the medal cannot be inserted), or the bet switch 16 If the bet switch 16 is operated and the bet is not received and credits are not reduced, or the start signal is not output by the reel control means 90 and the start switch 30 is operated. In addition, the rotation reel 40 is prevented from starting to rotate, and the operation signal of the stop switch 50 is not accepted, and the rotation reel 40 is not stopped even when the stop switch 50 is operated. To cancel the operation invalid state, the cancel state of the medal selector 4 is canceled, or the rotating reel 40 that does not rotate even when the start switch 30 is operated is automatically started to rotate (reel control means 90). 2) allowing the start signal to be output) and enabling the operation signals of the stop switch 50 and the bet switch 16 to be received.

  Further, the game progress stopping means 120 in the present embodiment, when the slot machine 10 is turned on, until a predetermined time (so-called load time) in which a liquid crystal display device 67 to be described later can execute a predetermined effect display elapses. Can stop the progress of the game under a predetermined condition. Specifically, the hour measuring means 122 includes a preparation time timer that starts a time count of a predetermined preparation time when the return processing of the main control device 21 is completed after the power is turned on. During the time measured by the preparation time timer, if a predetermined operation related to the rotation or stop of the rotating reel 40, that is, the operation of either the start switch 30 or the stop switch 50 is performed, it is determined whether or not the game is stopped. . Then, when the progress stop determination unit 121 determines that the game has stopped, the operation invalidation unit 123 holds the rotation start of the rotary reel 40 based on the operation of the start switch 30 until the preparation time timer expires. (The operation signal is accepted but is not rotated), or the operation of the stop switch 50 is invalidated (the operation signal is not accepted).

Note that the operation of the start switch 30 may be invalidated. In this case, after the preparation time timer expires, the rotating reel 40 does not rotate unless the start switch 30 is operated again. In this case, the winning lottery may be performed at the timing of the first operation. Further, although the operation signal of the stop switch 50 is received, the rotation stop of the rotary reel 40 may be reserved. In this case, after the preparation time timer expires, the rotating reel 40 stops rotating regardless of the operation of the stop switch 50 again.
Details of the processing based on the game progress stopping means 120 when the power is turned on will be described later.
(Main power monitoring means 130)
The main power supply monitoring means 130 is for monitoring the voltage supplied from the power supply device 5 to the main control device 21 and detecting the power supply disconnection (power interruption) when the voltage becomes a certain value or less. When the main power supply monitoring means 130 detects a power interruption, it sends a predetermined power interruption detection signal to the game control information storage means 140 described below.

(Game control information storage means 140)
The game control information storage means 140 is for storing predetermined game control information in the backup memory upon receipt of the power interruption detection signal from the main power supply monitoring means 130 (see FIG. 3A). Examples of the predetermined game control information include information on the result of the winning lottery (whether or not a winning flag is present), information on the game state (whether a normal state or a special state such as a bonus), information on operation of the operation means, information on payout, etc. included.
It should be noted that a certain amount of time is required until the supply voltage becomes zero after the main power supply monitoring means 130 detects a power interruption, so that backup processing is performed during this time. The backup memory uses a non-volatile memory in which stored data is not lost by power interruption.

Furthermore, the control information that needs to be backed up differs depending on whether a power failure occurs due to a power failure or a power failure (reset) due to turning off the power switch. In addition, when there is no power interruption flag at the time of power recovery, a predetermined backup data is initialized.
(Game control information output means 150)
The game control information output means 150 outputs predetermined control information among the control information related to the game to the sub-control device 22, such as information related to the result of the role lottery and information related to the game state.

(Main processing at power-on)
Here, processing in the main control device 21 when the power of the slot machine 10 is turned on will be described based on the flow of FIG. Note that the power-on includes both when the power switch is turned on and when the power is automatically restored after a power failure recovery (the same applies hereinafter).
First, in step 200 of FIG. 4, it is determined whether or not the main return process has been completed. The main recovery process is a process for enabling each means of the main control device 21 to perform its function. A predetermined voltage is supplied to the main control device 21, the CPU is started, and predetermined initialization is performed. In other words, the information stored in the game control information storage unit 140 is read out to a predetermined memory, and depending on the type of information, the processing based on the information is completed. As a matter of course, the game cannot be started until the main return process is completed. If the main return process is not completed, the process returns to step 200. If the main return process is completed, the process proceeds to the next step 201.

  In step 201, the game can be progressed. Here, if the power is interrupted after the game is finished (after the rotary reel 40 is stopped and the winning medal is paid out), the medal can be inserted or the bet can be made when the return process is completed. If the power is cut off during the operation of the hopper unit 65, the hopper motor is operated by the return process to pay out the remaining payout medals, and then the next game can be started. In addition, when power is cut off while the rotating reel 40 is rotating, the rotating reel 40 that has not been stopped is rotated by the return process, and when the rotating reel 40 reaches steady rotation and an index is detected, the stop operation is possible. It becomes. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 202.

In step 202, the preparation time timer of the time measuring means 122 starts time counting. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 203.
In step 203, game control information is output to the sub-control device 22. The game control information output here is information to be output to the sub-control device 22, such as a signal input as the game progresses after the interruption of power interruption, lottery result information, and the like. If no game is played and no control information to be output is generated, the process proceeds to the next step 204 as it is.
In step 204, it is determined whether or not the preparation time timer has expired. If the time has not expired, the process returns to step 203. If the time has expired, the main process at power-on is terminated. Thereafter, predetermined game control information accompanying the progress of the game is output to the sub-control device 22 as needed.

(Sub-control device 22)
The sub control device 22 mainly controls the effects accompanying the game based on the output signal from the main control device 21, and the effect device 6 is connected to the output side of the sub control device 22. Here, as the effect device 6, a liquid crystal display device 67, a lamp 68, and a speaker 69 are provided. The liquid crystal display device 67 is disposed on the upper side of the symbol display window 13, and is used for displaying a winning notification and other effect images. The lamp 68 is for notifying the gaming state and the gaming result by lighting or blinking of the light emitter, and the speaker 69 is for outputting a predetermined sound such as BGM or operation sound. In addition to the above-described effects device 6, the effect device 6 may include a movable reel such as an effect rotating reel displaying a symbol, an electrically operated doll, or an apparatus. That is, the “effect” includes a movable effect by a movable accessory in addition to an image display, a lamp blinking display, and an audio output.

As shown in FIG. 2, the sub control device 22 functions as each unit of the production device operation control means 200, the AT control means 210, the sub power supply monitoring means 220, and the production control information storage means 230.
(Production device operation control means 200)
The rendering device operation control means 200 is for controlling the operation of the liquid crystal display device 67, the lamp 68, and the speaker 69. As shown in FIG. 2, the liquid crystal display control means for controlling the image display of the liquid crystal display device 67. 201, a light emission control means for controlling lighting and blinking of the lamp 68, and a sound output control means for controlling sound output from the speaker 69, although not shown. In addition, an effect to be executed based on the effect data storage means storing the image data of the image to be displayed on the liquid crystal display device 67, the light emission pattern data of the lamp 68, the sound data, and the game control information from the main control device 21, etc. There is an effect determining means for determining the contents. Then, based on the determination of the effect determining means, predetermined effect data is output to each effect device 6.

(AT control means 210)
The AT control means 210 is means for controlling the assist time (AT). That is, when the predetermined AT start condition is met, the AT game is started, and when the predetermined AT end condition is met, the AT game is ended.
During the AT game, a so-called push order AT for notifying the push order of the stop switch 50 is performed. As described above, the pressing order is assigned to the simultaneous winning areas of a plurality of small combinations. The effect data storage means includes display data corresponding to the type of the pressing order, and when the winning control area for which the pressing order is set is inputted from the game control device 21, the effect determining means Display data corresponding to the order is selected and displayed on the liquid crystal display device 67. In the display, for example, of the three stop switches 50, the switch to be stopped first is displayed with characters such as left, middle, and right, and arrows.

If the stop switch 50 is operated in the correct pushing order according to the notification, a result advantageous to the player is obtained. That is, as explained in the reel control means 90, the correct answer combination is preferentially drawn on the active line, and the correct answer combination can be always won. On the other hand, if the notification is not followed, or if the operation cannot be performed in the correct push order because the notification is not made, the incorrect answer will be preferentially drawn on the active line, You can win, but you may not win.
By the way, even if no notification is made, if the player operates the stop switch 50 in the push order that can draw in the correct answer as described above, the correct answer may be awarded. However, notification is performed, and by following the notification, it is possible to reliably win the correct combination and obtain an advantageous result.

In addition, when a lottery of whether or not to shift to AT is performed at a predetermined time during normal game, for example, when a rare role (cherry etc.) is won or won, or when a bonus is won, etc., and the AT lottery is won For example, the AT game may be played after the bonus ends. Also, an AT game may be played during RT. In the so-called ART (assist replay time) in which an AT game is played during RT, not only is there a decrease in the number of medals on hand, but also a medal can be obtained by winning a small role by performing a stop operation in the order of pushing according to the notification. Since it increases surely, it becomes a gaming state more advantageous than RT.
Note that the AT is not limited to notifying the order of pressing, but may be information regarding the winning symbol to be pressed. For example, as a role, a small role consisting of a symbol arrangement of “white 7 bell bell” “red 7 bell bell” “blue 7 bell bell” is provided, and “white 7” “red 7” “blue 7”. "Is placed at a position that cannot be aimed at the same time on the left reel 41. Then, according to the selected small role, the symbol or color of “white 7”, “red 7”, or “blue 7” can be displayed on the liquid crystal display device 67.

(Sub power supply monitoring means 220)
The sub power supply monitoring means 220 is for monitoring the voltage supplied from the power supply device 5 to the sub control device 22, and detecting power interruption when the voltage falls below a certain value. When the sub power source monitoring unit 220 detects a power interruption, the sub power source monitoring unit 220 transmits a predetermined power interruption detection signal to the effect control information storage unit 230 described below.
(Production control information storage means 230)
The effect control information storage means 230 is for storing predetermined effect control information in the backup memory upon reception of the power interruption detection signal from the sub power supply monitoring means 220 (see FIG. 3B). The predetermined production control information includes image data being displayed on the liquid crystal display device 67, audio data being output from the speaker 69, and other information that can specify the progress of the production such as production stage information.

The configuration of the backup process and the backup memory is the same as that of the game control information storage unit 140. Also in the sub-control device 22, the control information that needs to be backed up differs depending on whether a power failure occurs due to a power failure or a power failure because the power switch is turned off. A disconnection flag may be set, and if a power failure flag is not present at the time of power failure recovery, a predetermined backup data may be initialized.
(Sub processing at power-on)
Here, the processing in the sub-control device 22 when the power of the slot machine 10 is turned on, in particular, the processing of the liquid crystal display control means for controlling the operation of the liquid crystal display device 67 will be described based on the flow of FIG. To do.

First, in step 210 of FIG. 5, it is determined whether or not the sub return processing has been completed. The sub return processing is processing for enabling each means of the sub control device 22 to perform its function. Specifically, a predetermined voltage is supplied to the sub-control device 22, the CPU is activated, a predetermined initialization is performed, and information stored in the effect control information storage unit 230 is read out to a predetermined memory It is processing of. If the sub return process has not been completed, the process returns to step 210. If the sub return process has been completed, the process proceeds to the next step 211.
In step 211, the liquid crystal recovery process is started. Specifically, the liquid crystal display control unit 201 starts a process of loading predetermined image display data to be displayed on the liquid crystal display device 67 stored in the ROM. Here, the predetermined image data is acquired based on the backup data of the effect control information stored in the temporary storage unit or based on predetermined effect data to be displayed when the power is turned on. For example, at the time of recovery from a power failure, the image display data is acquired by referring to the backup data, and when the power switch is turned on, the image display data is acquired by referring to predetermined effect data. The predetermined effect data referred to when acquiring the image display data may be selected according to the gaming state. For example, if power is cut off when the game state or the production state is in the normal mode, the predetermined production data for the normal mode is selected when the power is turned on, and the power is turned on in the special mode such as during bonus or ART. When the power is turned off, the effect data for the special mode is selected when the power is turned on. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 212.

In step 212, the game control information input from the main controller 21 is stored in the temporary storage unit. If no game control information is input, the process proceeds to the next step 213 as it is.
In step 213, it is determined whether or not the liquid crystal return processing is completed. That is, it is determined whether or not loading of predetermined image display data has been completed. If the liquid crystal recovery process has not ended, the process returns to step 212. In this way, game control information is accumulated until loading of the image display data is completed. When the liquid crystal recovery process is completed, the process proceeds to the next step 214.
In step 214, liquid crystal display information is acquired based on the game control information stored in the temporary storage unit, and the acquired liquid crystal display information is sequentially transmitted to the liquid crystal display device 67. Then, the sub-process at the time of power-on is terminated.

Thereafter, the process of acquiring the liquid crystal display information based on the game control information input from the main control device 21 and outputting it to the liquid crystal display device 67 is repeated.
Here, the measurement time of the preparation time timer in FIG. 4 is set to a time T necessary and sufficient for performing the processing from Steps 211 to 214 in FIG. As described above, when a predetermined game operation is performed while the preparation time timer is measuring the time T, the progress of the game based on the operation is temporarily stopped.
Note that the lamp 68 and the speaker 69 are also based on the production control information backup data stored in the temporary storage unit after the sub-return processing is completed, or in the production data set in advance (light emission pattern data, audio data). Based on this, predetermined presentation information is output, but it takes less time to read data related to the control of the lamp 68 and the speaker 69, and the lamp 68 and the speaker 69 can receive the output information immediately after the power is turned on. Therefore, processing such as waiting for loading in the liquid crystal display device 67 is not performed.

(Operation of slot machine 10)
Next, an outline of the operation of the slot machine 10 having the above configuration will be described based on the flow of FIG.
First, in step 300 shown in FIG. 6, it is determined whether or not a medal for playing a game is bet. The bet includes an automatic bet by replay operation in addition to insertion of medals and operation of the bet switch 16. If no bet is placed, the process returns to step 300. If a bet is placed, the process proceeds to the next step 301.
In step 301, it is determined whether or not the start switch 30 is turned on. If the start switch 30 is not turned ON, the process returns to step 301. If the start switch 30 is turned ON, the process proceeds to the next step 302.

In step 302, the role lottery means 70 performs a role lottery process. Then, the process proceeds to next Step 303.
In step 303, a rotation start process of the rotary reel 40 is performed. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 304.
In step 304, it is determined whether any one of the stop switches 50 is turned on. If the stop switch 50 is not turned on, the process returns to step 304. If any stop switch 50 is turned on, the process proceeds to the next step 305.
In step 305, rotation stop processing for the rotary reel 40 is performed. Then, the process proceeds to next Step 306.

In step 306, it is determined whether or not all the rotary reels 40 have been stopped, that is, whether or not the stop switch 50 corresponding to the three rotary reels 40 has been operated. If all the rotating reels 40 are not stopped, the process returns to step 304. If all the rotating reels 40 are stopped, the process proceeds to the next step 307.
In step 307, a game result determination process is performed. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 308, and processing according to the game result is performed. That is, when a predetermined winning combination is won, a payout of a winning medal, a re-game operation, and a transition process to a bonus game are performed, and one game is completed. Although a predetermined combination is not won, but when a symbol combination that triggers the transition of the gaming state or the effect state is displayed, a game state transition process or a signal output process to the effect control device 21 is performed. If no winning combination is won and no symbol combination that triggers the transition of the game state or the production state is displayed, one game is finished as it is.

Next, the reel rotation start process in step 303 will be described based on the flow in FIGS.
FIG. 7 shows a control example 1 of the reel rotation start process.
First, in step 400 of FIG. 7, it is determined whether or not the game time limit (wait time) has elapsed. If the game time limit has not elapsed, the process returns to step 400, and if the game time limit has elapsed. Advances to the next step 401.
In step 401, it is determined whether the preparation time timer is operating (time counting). Here, when the preparation time timer is in operation, the preparation time has not elapsed since the power was turned on, and when the preparation time timer is not in operation, the preparation time has elapsed after the power was turned on. It is a case. If the preparation time timer is operating, the process returns to step 401. If the preparation time timer is not operating, the process proceeds to the next step 402.

In step 402, a start signal is output from the reel control means 90. Thereby, the rotation reel 40 starts to rotate. Then, the process proceeds to next Step 403.
In step 403, it is determined whether or not the acceleration process of the stepping motor has been completed. If the acceleration process has not ended, that is, if the rotation speed of the rotary reel 40 has not reached the steady rotation speed, the process returns to step 403, and if the acceleration process has ended, the process proceeds to the next step 404.
In step 404, the index sensor 60A starts detecting the start index of each rotary reel 40. Then, the process proceeds to next Step 405.

In step 405, it is determined whether or not the start indexes of all the rotating reels 40 have been detected, that is, whether or not the current positions of the symbols have been specified for all the rotating reels 40. If the start indexes of all the rotating reels 40 are not detected, the process returns to step 405. If the start indexes of all the rotating reels 40 are detected, the process proceeds to the next step 406.
In step 406, the operation invalid state is released. That is, the stop switch 50 becomes effective. Then, the reel rotation start process ends.
Thus, according to the control example 1, when the start switch 30 is operated, if the preparation time timer is operating, the rotation start of the rotary reel 40 is reserved until the preparation time timer expires. . Here, during the operation of the preparation time timer, after the power is turned on, the liquid crystal display device 67 is not yet in a state in which the effect image can be displayed. If the gaming state is AT or ART, and the winning area for which the push order is set as a result of winning the lottery, the push order notification that should be displayed on the liquid crystal display 67 is performed. It will not be broken. Therefore, if the game progresses during this period, the player cannot receive the notification of the pressing order, and may perform the stop operation in the incorrect answer pressing order. However, if the rotary reel 40 does not start rotating, the stop switch 50 cannot be operated, and the stop operation is not performed in the incorrect pressing order. If the preparation time elapses, an effect image should be displayed on the LCD screen, and if the winning area set as the push order is won as a result of the role lottery, the navigation display of the push order is executed. . When the preparation time timer expires, the rotating reel 40 starts rotating without being operated again, so that the stopping operation can be performed according to the displayed navigation.

FIG. 8 shows a control example 2 of the reel rotation start process.
In step 500 of FIG. 8, it is determined whether or not the game time limit has elapsed. If the game time limit has not elapsed, the process returns to step 500. If the game time limit has elapsed, the next step 501 is performed. Proceed to
In step 501, a start signal is output and the rotating reel 40 starts to rotate. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 502.
The flow from step 502 to step 504 is the same as the flow from step 403 to step 405 in FIG. If, in step 504, the start indexes of all the rotating reels 40 are detected, the process proceeds to the next step 505.

In step 505, it is determined whether the preparation time timer is operating. If the preparation time timer is in operation, the process returns to step 505. If the preparation time timer is not in operation, the process proceeds to the next step 506.
In step 506, the operation invalid state is canceled. Then, the reel rotation start process ends.
Thus, according to the control example 2, when the symbol position of the rotating reel 40 can be determined and the preparation time timer is operating, the operation of the stop switch 50 is continued until the preparation time timer expires. Cannot be accepted, and the rotating reel 40 cannot be stopped. Even in such a case, it is possible to avoid the inconvenience that the player cannot receive the push order notification because the liquid crystal display device 67 has not returned.

Here, the slot machine 10 can execute at least one of the above two control examples. For example, only control example 1 may be formed to be executable, or only control example 2 may be formed to be executable.
When only control example 1 can be executed, if the power failure occurs during rotation of the rotary reel 40, the stop operation can be performed even before the preparation time elapses. If the player is informed of the push order and the player remembers the push order before the power interruption, the stop operation can be performed in the correct push order even after the power is restored and before the LCD screen is restored. It is. If the rotary reel 40 is stopped before the preparation time elapses and the start switch 30 is operated to start the next game, the start of rotation of the rotary reel 40 by the operation is reserved. Further, in the case where only control example 2 can be executed, if the power supply is cut off during the rotation of the rotary reel 40 and the power supply is restored, the stop operation after starting the automatic rotation of the rotary reel 40 until the preparation time elapses. Becomes invalid.

Then, both control examples 1 and 2 can be executed. In this case, when power is cut off while the rotating reel 40 is stopped, the rotation start of the rotating reel 40 is delayed by the operation of the start switch 30 using the control example 1, and the power is cut off while the rotating reel 40 is rotating. The control switch 2 is used to invalidate the operation of the stop switch 50. When formed in this way, the first game operation before the elapse of the preparation time can be invalidated after returning from the power interruption according to the time of the power interruption.
In the flow of FIG. 8, the operation invalid state is not canceled if the preparation time timer is operating when the indexes of all the reels are detected in step 504 and the symbol position of the rotating reel 40 can be determined. However, when the stop switch 50 is first operated while the preparation time timer is operating, the operation operation signal may be invalidated (the drive stop signal is not output even when the signal is received). .

(Modification)
In the above flow, while the preparation time timer is in operation, the game progress is unconditionally stopped, but when the preparation time timer is in operation and a predetermined role is won, the game progress is stopped. You may form so that it may stop. This is to prevent any notification effect from being missed because there is a possibility that some notification effect is performed in response to a start operation or a stop operation when the winning combination is won. Alternatively, the progress of the game may be stopped only when the preparation time timer is in operation and the winning combination of the winning area for which the pressing order is set is won. As described above, when the game result is not influenced by the performance, the game can be immediately advanced, so that a wasteful waiting time can be prevented from being given to the player.

(Summary)
As described above, according to the present embodiment, after the power is turned on, the progress of the game is stopped until the liquid crystal display device 67 can display the effect image. When the navigation is performed, the rotary reel 40 is not stopped without displaying the navigation. On the other hand, since it is possible to proceed with the game other than the operation of the start switch 30 or the stop switch 50, for example, when the power is cut off while the hopper is driven, the payout is performed quickly after the power is restored and the power is cut off after the game ends. In this case, medals can be inserted and bets can be made after the power is restored, so that when the preparation time is over, the game can be quickly returned to the game. That is, when the rotation reel 40 is controlled not to start rotating by operating the start switch 30 after the power is turned on until the preparation time elapses (control example 1), The game can be progressed to some extent, and when the rotating reel is controlled so as not to stop rotating by operating the stop switch 50 until the preparation time elapses after the power is turned on (control example 2), the liquid crystal display device 67 returns. In the meantime, the game can be advanced as much as possible.

In the above-described embodiment, the case where the push order navigation of the stop switch 50 is performed on the liquid crystal display device 67 has been described, but the present invention can also be used for a gaming machine set so that the push order navigation is not performed. It is. For example, when the start operation or stop operation is used as an opportunity, the liquid crystal display device 67 is used to perform an effect that displays information related to the lottery result of the role lottery, or a special effect that occurs only at that opportunity is performed. In this case, it is possible to prevent the notification from being missed or the production from being missed.
In the above-described embodiment, the sub-control device 22 is configured to hold data for liquid crystal display, but the liquid crystal display device 67 is controlled by a liquid crystal display control device (ROM, RAM, and CPU). A circuit board) may be provided to hold data for liquid crystal display. In this case, an image display command is output from the sub-control device 22 to the liquid crystal display control device, and the liquid crystal display control device acquires image data and executes display according to the command. After the power is turned on, the sub-control device 22 stores the image display command to be output until the liquid crystal display device 67 can receive signals.

In the above-described embodiment, the main control device 21 and the sub control device 22 are each provided with the power supply monitoring means. However, the power supply monitoring means is provided in the power supply device 5 and the power supply from the power supply device 5 is provided. Based on the disconnection detection signal, the main control device 21 and the sub control device 22 may perform processing at the time of power interruption. Alternatively, the power supply monitoring unit may be provided only in the main control device 21, and the sub-control device 22 may perform processing at the time of power interruption based on the power interruption detection signal from the main control device 21.
In addition, when power interruption is detected, predetermined game control information is output from the main control device 21 to the sub-control device 22, and the sub-control device 22 stores the information, and the sub-control device 22 is turned on (power-on). At the time of disconnection recovery), the output information to the effect device 6 may be determined based on the game control information input before the power interruption. Alternatively, predetermined game control information may be output from the main control device 21 to the sub-control device 22 when the power is turned on, and the main control device is used both when the power interruption is detected and when the power is turned on. Predetermined game control information may be output from 21 to the sub-control device 22.

Furthermore, the present invention can also be applied to a gaming machine that does not have the liquid crystal display device 67 as the rendering device 6. For example, when winning notifications and push order navigation can be executed depending on the operating mode of the movable accessory, the progress of the game is stopped for a certain period of time until the initialization of the movable accessory is completed when the power is turned on. Can be formed. Of course, the present invention can also be applied to a gaming machine having both the liquid crystal display device 67 and a movable accessory.
The present invention can also be applied to gaming machines other than slot machines. For example, the present invention can be applied to a parrot game machine that uses a game ball (pachinko ball) as a game medium to perform a game similar to a slot machine.

10 slot machine 11 chassis
12 Display window 13 Symbol display window
15 Medal sensor 16 Bet switch
17 Checkout switch
20 Controller 21 Game controller
22 Production control device
30 Start switch 40 turn reel
50 Stop switch 60 Reel unit
65 Hopper unit 70 role lottery means
80 Game state transition control means 90 Reel control means
120 Game progress stop means 140 Game control information storage means
150 Game control information output means 200 Staging device operation control means
210 AT control means 230 Production control information storage means

Claims (4)

A plurality of rotating reels displaying a plurality of symbols;
A start switch for starting rotation of the plurality of rotating reels;
A plurality of stop switches for individually stopping the rotating reels in rotation;
An effect device for performing an effect accompanying the progress of the game,
For a role associated with a predetermined symbol combination, a role lottery for determining whether or not to win is performed in response to the operation of the start switch, and the rotation reel is rotated and stopped based on the operation of the start switch and the stop switch. A main control device to control;
At least a sub-control device that is formed so as to be able to input a signal in one line with the main control device, and that controls the operation of the rendering device based on output information from the main control device,
The main control device can store game control information related to a game before the power is turned off.
The sub-control device can store the production control information related to the production before the power is turned off, and the operation information for operating the production device based on the stored production control information when the power is turned on. In a gaming machine configured to be output,
The main control device measures a preparation time for measuring a preparatory time set in advance as a time until the production device can execute a predetermined production based on the operation information output from the sub-control device after the power is turned on. Means,
A game machine comprising: a game progress stopping means that can be controlled so that the rotation reel does not stop rotating by operating the stop switch until the time measurement by the preparation time measuring means is completed. A plurality of rotating reels displaying a plurality of symbols;
A start switch for starting rotation of the plurality of rotating reels;
A plurality of stop switches for individually stopping the rotating reels in rotation;
An effect device for performing an effect accompanying the progress of the game,
For a role associated with a predetermined symbol combination, a role lottery for determining whether or not to win is performed in response to the operation of the start switch, and the rotation reel is rotated and stopped based on the operation of the start switch and the stop switch. A main control device to control;
At least a sub-control device that is formed so as to be able to input a signal in one line with the main control device, and that controls the operation of the rendering device based on output information from the main control device,
The main control device can store game control information related to a game before the power is turned off.
The sub-control device can store the production control information related to the production before the power is turned off, and the operation information for operating the production device based on the stored production control information when the power is turned on. In a gaming machine configured to be output,
The main control device measures a preparation time for measuring a preparatory time set in advance as a time until the production device can execute a predetermined production based on the operation information output from the sub-control device after the power is turned on. Means,
A game machine comprising: a game progress stop means that can be controlled so as not to start the rotation of the rotating reel by operating the start switch until the time measurement by the preparation time measuring means is completed. The operation mode of the stop switch is associated with the lottery result of the role lottery,
When the main control device has a lottery result associated with the operation mode of the stop switch as a result of the role lottery, the stop switch is operated in an operation mode associated with the lottery result And when the stop switch is operated in an operation mode other than the operation mode, the stop combination of the rotating reel is formed so as to be controllable so that the symbol combination to be displayed is different,
The sub-control device includes auxiliary effect control means for controlling execution of a predetermined auxiliary effect related to the operation mode of the stop switch using the effect device,
The game progress stopping means, when the result of the combination lottery in the game is a lottery result associated with the operation mode of the stop switch, until the time measurement of the preparation time measuring means ends. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the rotary reel is controlled not to stop rotating by operating a stop switch. The operation mode of the stop switch is associated with the lottery result of the role lottery,
When the main control device has a lottery result associated with the operation mode of the stop switch as a result of the role lottery, the stop switch is operated in an operation mode associated with the lottery result And when the stop switch is operated in an operation mode other than the operation mode, the stop combination of the rotating reel is formed so as to be controllable so that the symbol combination to be displayed is different,
The sub-control device includes auxiliary effect control means for controlling execution of a predetermined auxiliary effect related to the operation mode of the stop switch using the effect device,
The game progress stopping means, when the result of the combination lottery in the game is a lottery result associated with the operation mode of the stop switch, until the time measurement of the preparation time measuring means ends. The gaming machine according to claim 2, wherein the rotation reel is controlled not to start rotating by an operation of a start switch.

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