JP2018068351A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine for giving a higher interest to a player by a performance for suggesting a game state.SOLUTION: In at least a portion of the case where a transfer of a predetermined game state is fixed (e.g., in a regular bonus or a big bonus), at the momentum of the acceptance of one game medium by pet receiving means, a delay operation (a processing a delay time for a time period relating to the action of a blocker shown at Step S214) is executed for delaying the acceptance of a game medium to be performed after the acceptance of one game medium is set for a time period, for example, is executed.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 10

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine, and more particularly to a swivel type gaming machine.

A gaming machine represented by a revolving type gaming machine has an electromagnetic value that corresponds to the number of game media (game medals) that have been thrown in and the number of game media that have not been used for gaming. Is provided with a function (storage device) for storing, and the numerical value stored by the function is generally referred to as credit. With this function, the player can use the game medals from the stored game medals sequentially for the game by operating the bet button.
The following patent document 1 is illustrated as this type of gaming machine.

  In Patent Literature 1, when an operation (payment operation) for exchanging stored credits to a game medium is performed, if a bonus winning flag is internally set, the player is notified of the bonus winning. A gaming machine is described.

JP 2000-5377 A

  The bonus winning notification described in Patent Document 1 is triggered by the player performing a settlement operation according to his / her own intention. In this case, it is assumed that the player has an intention to stop the game. The Therefore, depending on the situation where the player is placed, there is a possibility that the game cannot be continued even if the bonus winning is notified. The bonus winning notification in such a situation may give the player discomfort, and it can be said that the bonus winning notification described in Patent Document 1 still has room for improvement.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above-described problems, and provides a gaming machine that gives a player a higher level of interest by providing effects that suggest a gaming state.

  According to the present invention, a gaming machine that uses a game medium to execute a game, and that accepts a game state control means for shifting to any one of a plurality of game states, and the game medium can be used for a game. A bet accepting means, a start accepting means for accepting a start operation by the player after the bet accepting means accepts a predetermined number of game media, a reel that starts to rotate by the start operation by the player, In at least a part of the case where the transition to the gaming state is confirmed or the transition to the predetermined gaming state, the reception of the one gaming medium by the bet receiving means is a trigger. There is provided a gaming machine comprising delay control means for executing a delay process for delaying at least one of reception of a game medium or reception of a start operation performed after reception .

  ADVANTAGE OF THE INVENTION According to this invention, the gaming machine which gives a higher interest to a player by the production | presentation which suggests a gaming state is provided.

It is a front view of a gaming machine. FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a hand region II shown surrounded by a broken line in FIG. 1. It is a figure which shows the back surface of a front door. It is a figure which shows the game machine except a front door. It is a figure which shows the electric constitution of a gaming machine. It is a functional block diagram of a gaming machine. It is a flowchart which shows the main flow which concerns on the game progress in this embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the main flow which concerns on the game progress in this embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the main flow which concerns on the game progress in this embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the processing flow regarding medal management. It is a flowchart which shows the processing flow regarding medal management. It is a flowchart which shows the processing flow regarding medal management. It is a flowchart which shows the process flow regarding a payment process.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In all the drawings, the same components are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof will be omitted as appropriate.
Unless otherwise specified, the direction shown in the description of the present embodiment is the direction when the player views the gaming machine 10 directly, that is, the direction in the front view of the gaming machine 10 shown in the drawing.
In the following description, unless otherwise specified, the gaming machine 10 will be described on the assumption that the power is turned on and is operating normally.

<Outline of the gaming machine 10>
First, an outline of a gaming machine 10 that implements the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 1, 2, and 6.
FIG. 1 is a front view of the gaming machine 10.
FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the hand region II shown by being surrounded by a broken line in FIG.
FIG. 6 is a functional block diagram of the gaming machine 10.

  The gaming machine 10 according to the present embodiment is a so-called spinning-type gaming machine that executes a game using a gaming medium (hereinafter sometimes referred to as a medal). The gaming machine 10 includes gaming state control means, bet acceptance means, start acceptance means, reels, and delay control means.

The gaming state control means shifts to any one of a plurality of gaming states.
The gaming state control means in the present embodiment is realized by the gaming state control unit 110, for example.

The bet receiving means receives a medal so that it can be used for a game.
The bet receiving means in the present embodiment is realized by, for example, a maximum bet button sensor 45a, a single bet button sensor 45b, and a medal passing sensor 47c.
Note that the state in which the bet accepting unit can accept medals is notified by turning on the insertable display LED 25f. Further, the number of medals accepted by the bet accepting means is notified by the number of lighting of the inserted number display LED 25a.

The start accepting means accepts a start operation by the player after the bet accepting means accepts a predetermined number of medals.
The start receiving means in the present embodiment is realized by the start lever sensor 44, for example.
The state in which the start accepting unit can accept the start operation is notified by lighting of the game start display LED 25e.

The reel starts to rotate with the start operation by the player.
The reel in the present embodiment is realized by, for example, the reel 65 (65a, 65b, 65c).

The delay control means is triggered by reception of one game medium by the bet reception means in at least a part of the case where the transition to the predetermined gaming state is confirmed or the transition to the predetermined gaming state. Delay processing for delaying at least one of the reception of the game medium or the reception of the start operation performed after the reception of the game medium is executed.
The delay control means in this embodiment is realized by the gaming state control unit 110, for example.

Here, the predetermined gaming state may be a part of the gaming state that is controlled to be shifted by the gaming state control means, and the content thereof is not particularly limited. For example, the predetermined gaming state is a special gaming state advantageous to the player. It is preferable. Here, the special gaming state may include the following (A) to (D).
(B) A gaming state in which the winning probability for the winning combination related to winning is higher than the normal gaming state (so-called regular bonus, bonus game such as big bonus)
(B) A gaming state in which the winning probability relating to re-gaming is higher than the normal gaming state (so-called replay time, hereinafter referred to as RT)
(C) A gaming state in which a specific winning or re-winning winning notification is notified and an effect that prompts the player to establish it is executed more frequently (so-called assist time, hereinafter sometimes referred to as AT)
(D) A gaming state in which RT and AT are given in combination (so-called assist replay time, hereinafter referred to as ART)
(E) A gaming state in which the probability of transition from (a) to (d) above is higher than the normal gaming state. In the following embodiments, the predetermined gaming state is a so-called regular bonus or big bonus. Although an aspect is described, implementation of this invention is not restricted to this aspect.

Here, “when the transition to the predetermined gaming state is confirmed” is a case where the transition to the predetermined gaming state has not been made yet but it is certain that the transition to the future is made. For example, if the predetermined gaming state is a bonus game, a case where a winning flag related to the bonus game is set and the bonus game has not started is applicable.
Here, “when transitioning to a predetermined gaming state” is the time when transitioning to the predetermined gaming state, or has already transitioned to the predetermined gaming state and is still in the predetermined gaming state. This is the case.

  Here, the delay process specifically refers to the time from when one input number display LED 25a is turned on until the next input number display LED 25a is turned on, or a predetermined number (for example, three) of input numbers. It means that the time from when the display LED 25a is turned on until when the game start display LED 25e is turned on is delayed.

As described above, the gaming machine 10 according to the present embodiment accepts game media or receives a game medium at least when the transition to the predetermined gaming state is confirmed or when the transition to the predetermined gaming state has occurred. The effect is to delay the acceptance of the start operation. Therefore, the player can notice that the transition to the predetermined gaming state is confirmed or stays in the predetermined gaming state with the effect.
Since such production is novel, it attracts the player's interest strongly.
Hereinafter, the gaming machine 10 according to the present embodiment will be described in more detail.

<About the structure of the gaming machine 10>
The structure of the gaming machine 10 will be described with reference to FIGS.
FIG. 1 is a front view of the gaming machine 10.
FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the hand region II shown by being surrounded by a broken line in FIG.
FIG. 3 is a view showing the back surface of the front door 20.
FIG. 4 is a view showing the gaming machine 10 excluding the front door 20.
FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an electrical configuration of the gaming machine 10.

The gaming machine 10 includes a rectangular parallelepiped outer frame 90 having an open front, a front door 20 and a gaming machine main body 60 that are pivotally supported with respect to the left edge side of the outer frame 90 so as to be rotatable and openable. .
More specifically, three hinge portions 96 (96a, 96b, 96c) are provided on the left edge side of the outer frame 90, and the front door 20 is pivotally supported by the upper hinge portion 96a and the lower hinge portion 96c. The gaming machine main body 60 is pivotally supported by the upper hinge portion 96a and the middle hinge portion 96b.

On the front side of the front door 20, as shown in FIG. 1 or 2, an upper panel 21, a lower panel 22, a bet button 23, a menu selection button 24, a status display LED 25, a start lever 26, A stop button 27, a medal insertion port 31, a settlement button 32, a medal return button 33, a door lock 34, a medal discharge port 35, a decoration LED 36, a lower plate 37, and a speaker port 38 are provided. ing.
Further, on the back side of the front door 20, as shown in FIG. 3, a decorative LED board 41, a status display LED board 42, a stop button board 43, a start lever sensor 44, a bet button board 45, a menu, A selection button board 46, a medal selector 47, a setting change device 48, a speaker 49, an insertion medal path 51, a payout medal path 52, and a return medal path 53 are provided.
In addition to the front door 20, the gaming machine 10 includes a gaming machine main body 60, a power supply device 91, a medal storage 93, and a medal auxiliary storage 95. .

In order to open the front door 20, it is necessary to release a lock mechanism (not shown) that locks the front door 20 and the outer frame 90 by inserting a door key (not shown) into the door lock 34.
When the front door 20 is opened, a power supply device 91 is provided below the gaming machine main body 60 as shown in FIG. The power supply device 91 is a device for supplying power to each component of the gaming machine 10, and activation or stop is controlled by an operation of the power switch 92.
When playing the game of the gaming machine 10, it is necessary for hall personnel or the like to operate the power switch 92 to activate the power supply device 91. Note that the gaming machine main body 60 preferably has a function of maintaining the gaming state that was being executed when the power supply device 91 was turned off even when the power supply from the power supply device 91 was turned off. This is because the player is not disappointed when the power supply is stopped while the game is progressing in a development advantageous to the player, such as a bonus game.

A setting change device 48 is provided on the back side of the opened front door 20. The setting change device 48 is a device for setting a game setting value, and includes a setting key switch 48a, a setting change switch 48b, a setting display LED 48c, and a setting key cover 48d. The setting key switch 48a can operate the setting changing device 48 by inserting and operating a setting key (not shown). The setting change switch 48b can be operated in a state where the setting key is inserted into the setting key switch 48a, and the game setting value can be changed by pressing the setting change switch 48b. The setting display LED 48c is an LED for displaying the set game setting value, and is a 7-segment display in this embodiment. The setting key cover 48d is a cover that covers the setting key switch 48a. By sliding the setting key cover 48a to open the setting key switch 48a, the setting key can be inserted into the setting key switch 48a. FIG. 3 illustrates a state in which the setting key cover 48d covers the setting key switch 48a.
Here, the game set value is a value indicating the ease of giving a privilege (bonus game or the like) advantageous to the player, and the higher the value, the easier the privilege is given, and the lower the value, the harder the privilege is given. In addition, it is preferable to set the game setting value by operating the setting change device 48 before starting the game by the gaming machine 10. This is because changing the game setting value generally resets the gaming state.

The front door 20 has an upper panel 21 and a lower panel 22 on the front side.
Since the upper panel 21 is formed of a transparent member, a player located in front of the gaming machine 10 must visually recognize the gaming machine main body 60 disposed on the back side of the upper panel 21 through the upper panel 21. Can do.
Further, the lower panel 22 has a model name of the gaming machine 10 and characters related to the model written on the surface thereof, and the model name written by lighting of a backlight (not shown) installed at the rear is visually recognized. It becomes easy to do.

The gaming machine main body 60 includes main components that control a game executed by the gaming machine 10. Further, as shown in FIG. 4, the gaming machine main body 60 has an effect display area 62 formed in the upper front portion thereof, and a reel frame 64 formed in the lower front portion thereof.
The effect display area 62 is a display screen of the effect display device 63 built in the gaming machine main body 60 and can display various effects or various information related to the game of the gaming machine 10. As the effect display device 63, for example, a liquid crystal display type display device or the like can be adopted. The effect displayed in the effect display area 62 is interlocked with the sound output from the speaker 49 and the light emission of the decoration LED 36, and can appropriately arouse the player's interest.
The reel frame 64 is a window frame formed on the front side of a plurality of reels 65 (65L, 65C, 65R) built in the gaming machine main body 60, and is divided into an internal region and an external region. The inner area of the reel frame 64 is formed by a cavity or a transparent member, and a part of each reel 65 is visible through the inner area. Further, the outer region of the reel frame 64 is formed of an opaque member (including a semi-transparent member or a member colored with a transparent member), and it is difficult to visually recognize the reel 65 through the outer region.

The reel 65 includes a reel 65L, a reel 65C, and a reel 65R. The reel 65 starts to be rotated by a start operation by the player (player operation on the start lever 26), and a stop operation by the player (stop button). Rotation is stopped in response to a player's operation on 27).
At this time, the time from the start of rotation of the reel 65 in the previous symbol variation game to the start of rotation of the reel 65 in the symbol variation game needs to exceed a predetermined delay time, a so-called wait time. That is, if the start lever 26 accepts the player's operation before the wait time elapses, the reel 65 starts to rotate after waiting until the wait time elapses. In this embodiment, the wait time is set to 4.1 seconds.
In addition, when each reel 65 in this embodiment is rotating, in principle, the reel 65 rotates from top to bottom. In this specification, the rotation from top to bottom of the reel is referred to as “forward direction”, and the rotation from bottom to top is referred to as “reverse direction”.

In the symbol variation game in this embodiment, by rotating a plurality of reels 65 representing a plurality of symbols, the symbols represented on the reel 65 are displayed in a variable manner, and the rotating reel 65 is stopped. By doing so, the combination of symbols is stopped and displayed.
That is, the symbols relating to the symbol variation game are represented on the plurality of reels 65 (reel 65L, reel 65C, reel 65R) in the present embodiment.

The rotation control of the reel 65 is executed using the reel sensor 66. The reel sensor 66 is a sensor that detects the amount of rotation of the reel 65. Here, the rotation amount is a rotation angle of the reel 65 with respect to a predetermined position.
One reel sensor 66 is provided for each reel 65. Specifically, a reel sensor 66L is provided for the reel 65L, a reel sensor 66C is provided for the reel 65C, and a reel sensor 66R is provided for the reel 65R.
Note that the rotation control of the reel 65 will be described in detail later.

  A reel illumination board 67 (67L, 67C, 67R) is provided inside the reel 65, and it is easy to visually recognize each symbol shown on the reel 65 by turning on an LED mounted on the reel illumination board 67. ing. That is, the LED mounted on the reel illumination board 67 functions as a backlight for symbol display by the reel 65.

The start lever 26 can accept an operation (starting operation) by the player as an opportunity to start the variation display in the symbol variation game. Specifically, the player's operation with respect to the start lever 26 is to tilt the start lever 26 provided substantially perpendicular to the front door 20 in either direction in the initial state.
The start lever sensor 44 can detect whether the start lever 26 is on or off. More specifically, the start lever sensor 44 detects the start lever 26 that is substantially perpendicular to the front door 20 as an off state, and detects the start lever 26 that is tilted in either direction as an on state. .

In this embodiment, when the number of medals has not reached the predetermined number, the symbol variation game is not started even if the start lever 26 accepts the player's operation. In order to reach the predetermined number of inserted sheets, at least one of the following operations or processes or a combination of a plurality of processes is required.
(I) Insert medals from the medal insertion slot 31 to increase the number of inserted coins.
(Ii) The credit representing the medal stored in the gaming machine 10 is subtracted by pressing the bet button 23 to increase the number of inserted coins.
(Iii) When a combination of symbols corresponding to a re-game is won in the previous symbol variation game and the corresponding symbol combination is stopped and displayed, the re-game is activated in the next symbol variation game (the game) and the number of inserted games increases. In this case, even if the player does not perform the operations (i) and (ii), the inserted number automatically becomes equal to the inserted number of the previous symbol variation game.

  When medals are stored (credits increase), for example, (i) when medals are inserted from the medal insertion slot 31 exceeding a predetermined number of inserted coins, (ii) winning in the symbol variation game, For example, when a medal is acquired as a privilege.

A medal selector 47 including a medal selector main body 47a, a medal blocker 47b, and a medal passage sensor 47c is provided on the back side of the medal insertion slot 31. The medal inserted from the medal insertion slot 31 is the medal selector 47. Are selected into medals that can be accepted and medals that cannot be accepted.
For example, the medal selector main body 47a operates the medal blocker 47b having a solenoid because the medal can be received in a standby state (a state where the power is turned on but the symbol variation game is not executed). When the medal blocker 47b is operated, a projection (not shown) provided in the middle of the inserted medal passage 51 is buried, so that the inserted medal passage 51 is allowed to pass the medal. At this time, when a medal is inserted from the medal insertion slot 31, the medal flows down to the insertion medal passage 51 and is detected by a medal passage sensor 47 c provided in the middle of the insertion medal passage 51. It passes and is stored in the medal storage 93.
Further, the medal selector main body 47a stops the operation of the medal blocker 47b because the medal cannot be accepted during execution of the symbol variation game or when the credit reaches the upper limit. When the operation of the medal blocker 47 b is stopped, a protrusion (not shown) protrudes in the middle of the inserted medal passage 51 and obstructs the passage of the medal, so that the inserted medal is in the middle of the inserted medal passage 51. And stays at a position not detected by the medal passage sensor 47c. The medals staying in the inserted medal passage 51 are dropped into the return medal passage 53 by their own weight or by the operation of the medal return button 33 and discharged to the lower plate 37 through the medal discharge port 35.

  When medals are awarded beyond the upper limit of credits, medals corresponding to the number of medals awarded are discharged from the medal storage 93 to the lower plate 37 via the medal discharge port 35.

As the bet button 23, the gaming machine 10 has a maximum bet button 23a and a single bet button 23b mounted on the bet button substrate 45. The maximum bet button 23a can increase the number of inserted coins by decrementing up to three credits with a single press, and the single bet button 23b can increase the number of inserted coins by subtracting one credit with a single press. Can do. Further, even if the bet button 23 is pressed, if the credit subtraction value in the symbol variation game has reached a predetermined number, the credit cannot be subtracted beyond that.
Further, the bet button substrate 45 is provided with a maximum bet button sensor 45a and a single bet button sensor 45b for detecting that the maximum bet button 23a and the single bet button 23b are pressed, respectively. The above processing is performed according to the detection of the sensor.

Further, the maximum bet button 23a is used as an application (bet button) for increasing the number of inserted sheets by subtracting credit in accordance with the operation as described above, and accepts an operation for prompting the progress of the performance at the time of performing some effects. It may also be used as a use (push button).
When the maximum bet button 23a is used as a bet button, it is limited to a state in which the insertable display LED 25f is lit. On the other hand, when the maximum bet button 23a is used as a push button, it is not necessarily limited when the button suggestion effect is executed. For example, the maximum bet button 23a may be used as a push button for an operation on a menu screen described later.

The bet button substrate 45 is provided with a push button sensor 45c that detects pressing of the maximum bet button 23a when the maximum bet button 23a is used as a push button, and is distinguished from detection by the maximum bet button sensor 45a. .
The maximum bet button sensor 45a is managed by the CPU 101 mounted on the main board 100, whereas the push button sensor 45c is managed by the CPU 201 mounted on the sub board 200.

The gaming machine 10 further includes a menu selection button 24 on the left side of the bet button 23 described above. The menu selection button 24 includes a cross key button 24a mounted on the menu selection button board 46 and a determination button 24b positioned at the center of the cross key button 24a.
The menu selection button 24 is a component that receives an operation related to the menu screen. Here, the menu screen refers to a screen showing an operation method of the gaming machine 10 and commentary information on the game displayed in the effect display area 62, and corresponds to the predetermined display.
The player can browse the menu screen by operating the menu selection button 24. For example, when the determination button 24 b is pressed in the standby state, a menu list and a cursor are displayed in the effect display area 62. When the player operates the cross key button 24a to move the cursor to a position indicating an arbitrary menu, and when the cursor indicates one of the menus, when the player presses the enter button 24b, the menu displays an effect display. It is displayed in area 62.

The menu selection button board 46 is provided with a cross key button sensor 46a and an enter button sensor 46b.
The cross key button sensor 46a can detect in which direction the cross key button 24a is pressed (in any direction, up, down, left, or right with respect to the center of the decision button 24b).
The decision button sensor 46b can detect that the decision button 24b has been pressed.
The cross key button sensor 46a and the determination button sensor 46b are managed by the CPU 201 mounted on the sub-board 200, similarly to the push button sensor 45c described above.

In addition, the gaming machine 10 includes a state display LED 25 that displays the number of inserted medals, the number of stored medals, and the like on the right side of the bet button 23. The status display LED 25 is configured by a plurality of LEDs or a 7-segment display mounted on the status display LED substrate 42.
Of the status display LEDs 25, the inserted number display LED 25a is composed of three LEDs. Each time the inserted number increases, the number of LEDs to be lit increases by one.
Of the status display LEDs 25, the stored number display LED 25b is configured by a 7-segment display, and represents the number of stored medals (credits) in numbers.
Of the status display LEDs 25, the acquired number display LED 25c is configured by a seven-segment display, and represents the number of medals acquired by winning a prize in numbers.
Of the status display LEDs 25, the replay display LED 25d is composed of one LED, and lights up when replay is stopped and displayed in the symbol variation game.
Of the status display LEDs 25, the game start display LED 25e is composed of one LED, and indicates that the start condition of the symbol variation game is established by the lighting of the LED.
Of the status display LEDs 25, the insertable display LED 25f is composed of one LED, and indicates that a medal can be inserted by turning on the LED.

The plurality of stop buttons 27 (27L, 27C, and 27R) accepts a stop operation that triggers a change in the symbol in the symbol variation game, that is, the rotation of the reel 65, after accepting a start operation by the player. The stop button 27 can accept a stop operation triggered by a stoppable condition that is established after the reel 65 starts to rotate.
Specifically, the player's operation on the stop button 27 is to press the stop button 27. The stoppable condition here is a precondition for executing a stop display in the symbol variation game. Specifically, the speeds of all reels 65 (65L, 65C, 65R) reach a predetermined speed. The stoppable condition is satisfied.

The plurality of stop buttons 27 (27L, 27C, 27R) are mounted on the stop button substrate 43, and one stop button 27 is provided for each reel 65. Specifically, the stop button 27L receives a stop operation for stopping the reel 65L. The stop button 27C accepts a stop operation for stopping the reel 65C. The stop button 27R accepts a stop operation for stopping the reel 65R.
The stop button board 43 is provided with a stop button sensor 43a for detecting that the stop button 27L, the stop button 27C, and the stop button 27R are pressed. Stop control of each reel 65 is performed.
The stop buttons 27 listed here can be pressed in any order by the player, but a penalty may be imposed if the stop buttons 27 are not pressed in a predetermined pressing order.

The stop button 27 in the present embodiment is configured to include a stoppable display LED 27a and cover the periphery thereof with a light transmissive member. The stop button 27 has a specification for notifying the player whether or not the stoppable condition is established by the lighting color of the stoppable display LED 27a.
In this way, since it is possible to determine whether or not the stoppable condition is satisfied based on the color of the stop button 27, the player can smoothly perform the stop operation sequentially.

Due to the stop operation received by the stop button 27, the reel 65 corresponding to the stop button 27 that has received the stop operation stops. The stop position of the reel 65 can move up to four frames based on the position of the reel 65 when the stop button 27 is pressed. Control from when the stop button 27 is pressed until the reel 65 stops is generally referred to as slip control.
Here, the frame is an area given to one of the symbols shown on the outer periphery of the reel 65, and refers to one area or the vertical dimension of the area. In this embodiment, the outer periphery of the reel 65 is equally divided into 21 frames, and one symbol is arranged for each frame.
In the present embodiment, the stop of the reel 65 includes a state in which the reel 65 swings with a fluctuation width of less than one frame with reference to a predetermined frame.

  The inner area of the reel frame 64 has a size of three frames in the vertical direction. In addition, each reel 65 is controlled to stop so that three symbols fit in the vertical direction of the inner region of the reel frame 64, so that the player can visually recognize the three symbols through the inner region of the reel frame 64. It has become. That is, since three reels 65 are arranged in the left-right direction, when each reel 65 is stopped, the player can visually recognize 3 symbols × 3 reels = 9 symbols.

When each reel 65 is controlled to stop as described above, a substantially straight line (indicated by a one-dot chain line in FIG. 1) formed by symbols stopped at the upper, middle, and lower stages among the symbols stopped at each reel 65 is respectively line L1. -It is called line L2 and line L3.
In addition, a substantially straight line (indicated by a one-dot chain line in FIG. 1) formed by symbols stopped at the upper stage of the reel 65L, the middle stage of the reel 65C, and the lower stage of the reel 65R is referred to as a line L4. A substantially straight line (indicated by an alternate long and short dash line in FIG. 1) formed by symbols that stop at the lower stage of the reel 65L, the middle stage of the reel 65C, and the upper stage of the reel 65R is referred to as a line L5.

  During the rotation of each reel 65 (during the execution of the symbol variation game), the image displayed in the effect display area 62, the audio output from the speaker 49, or the Various effects constituted by lighting or extinguishing the decoration LED 36 are executed.

A speaker port 38 is provided in front of each speaker 49. More specifically, a speaker port 38a is provided in front of the speaker 49a located in the upper right (upper left in FIG. 3) when viewed from the front of the gaming machine. A speaker port 38b is provided in front of the speaker 49b located at the upper left (upper right in FIG. 3) when viewed from the front of the gaming machine. A speaker port 38c is provided in front of the speaker 49c located at the lower left (lower right in FIG. 3) when viewed from the front of the gaming machine. A speaker port 38d is provided in front of the speaker 49d located in the lower right (lower left in FIG. 3) when viewed from the front of the gaming machine.
Each speaker port 38 is provided with a large number of cavities so that the sound output from the speaker 49 can be appropriately output.

The decoration LED 36 is arranged so as to surround the effect display area 62 or the reel frame 64. More specifically, the decoration LED 36a mounted on the decoration LED board 41a and the decoration LED 36b mounted on the decoration LED board 41b are arranged on the upper right side of the effect display area 62. In addition, on the lower right side of the effect display area 62, a decoration LED 36c mounted on the decoration LED substrate 41c is arranged. In addition, on the lower right side of the reel frame 64, a decoration LED 36d mounted on the decoration LED substrate 41d is disposed. In addition, on the lower left side of the reel frame 64, a decoration LED 36e mounted on the decoration LED substrate 41e is disposed. In addition, on the lower left side of the effect display area 62, a decoration LED 36f mounted on the decoration LED substrate 41f is arranged. In addition, the decoration LED 36g mounted on the decoration LED substrate 41g and the decoration LED 36h mounted on the decoration LED substrate 41h are arranged on the upper left side of the effect display area 62.
Each decoration LED 36 may be lit in a single color or may be lit in a plurality of colors.

When a symbol combination corresponding to a winning is stopped and displayed on a predetermined active line as a result of the symbol variation game, a prescribed number of medals are awarded. Here, the effective line may be any one of the lines L1 to L5 or may be plural. Moreover, the arrangement | positioning of the symbol which does not correspond to any of the line L1-line L5 may be sufficient as an effective line.
Of course, not only the combination of symbols corresponding to the winning combination but also the combination of symbols corresponding to the above-mentioned replay or bonus game can be stopped and displayed on the active line.

When the credit reaches the upper limit during execution of the paid-out process for the given medal, the gaming machine 10 pays out the medal corresponding to the amount exceeding the upper limit from the medal storage 93. Further, when the checkout button 32 is pressed, the gaming machine 10 pays out from the medal storage box 93 medals corresponding to the credit at the time of pressing.
The process of paying out medals stored in the medal storage 93 is executed by a payout mechanism (not shown) built in the medal storage 93. More specifically, the payout mechanism acquires medals for the number of payouts from medals stored in the medal storage 93 and discharges them from the medal payout exit 94 toward the payout medal passage 52. The medals discharged to the payout medal passage 52 are discharged to the lower plate 37 through the medal discharge port 35.

In order to prevent medals from overflowing from the medal storage case 93, a medal auxiliary storage case 95 in which a part of the medals stored in the medal storage case 93 flows down is provided on the side of the medal storage case 93. Yes.
In addition, a storage error sensor (not shown) for detecting that medals stored in the medal auxiliary storage 95 reach a predetermined value or more is provided, and the gaming machine 10 responds to this detection by the medal storage 93. And an error prompting the user to collect medals stored in the medal auxiliary storage 95 is notified. In order to notify this error, the above-described effect display area 62, the decoration LED 36, and the speaker 49 may be used.

<Electric configuration and functional configuration of gaming machine 10>
Next, the electrical configuration and functional configuration of the gaming machine 10 in the present embodiment will be described mainly using FIG. 5 or FIG. However, since the constituent elements illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 4 described above are also referred to, please refer to them appropriately.
FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an electrical configuration of the gaming machine 10.
FIG. 6 is a functional block diagram of the gaming machine 10.

  The gaming machine 10 includes a main board 100 and a sub board 200 as main components. In FIG. 5, the main board 100 or the sub board 200 is illustrated as if it is a single electronic board, but it is not necessarily required to be a single electronic board. That is, the main board 100 or the sub board 200 may be realized by combining a plurality of electronic boards.

The main board 100 controls the display of each LED included in the status display LED board 42 based on the control information input from the various sensors 40a, pays out medals to the medal storage box 93, Generate commands to output. The main board 100 is mounted with electronic components such as the CPU 101, the RAM 102, or the ROM 103. By executing processing of data and control signals exchanged between these electronic components, various sensors 40a, etc., various types of games are provided. The function is realized. Here, the various sensors 40a include the above-described start lever sensor 44, stop button sensor 43a, maximum bet button sensor 45a, single bet button sensor 45b, medal passage sensor 47c, checkout button sensor 82, and the like.
The sub board 200 controls the decorative LED board 41, the speaker 49, the effect display device 63, and the like based on the command input from the main board 100. The sub-board 200 is also mounted with electronic components such as the CPU 201, the RAM 202, or the ROM 203, and by executing processing of data and control signals exchanged between these electronic components and various sensors 40b, the effect processing and menu screen are displayed. Such processing is realized. Here, the various sensors 40b include a push button sensor 45c, a cross key button sensor 46a, a determination button sensor 46b, and the like.

As shown in FIG. 6, the functional configuration realized by the main board 100 includes a gaming state control unit 110, an internal lottery unit 120, a flag setting unit 130, a rotation control unit 140, a display symbol determination unit 150, and a command generation unit. 160 is included.
In addition, as shown in FIG. 6, the functional configuration realized by the sub board 200 includes a sub control unit 210, an effect display unit 220, an audio output unit 230, and an LED light emitting unit 240.
Note that the components illustrated in FIG. 6 are not limited to all the functional configurations included in the main substrate 100 or the sub substrate 200, and may include functional configurations not illustrated here.

  The gaming state control unit 110 manages a gaming state relating to a game (symbol changing game) executed by the gaming machine 10, and executes at least the following processing.

For example, the game state control unit 110 monitors whether or not the game can be executed, and stops (suspends) the game when the game is impossible.
Here, as a case where the game is impossible, (i) when the front door 20 is opened, (ii) when there is no medal in the medal storage case 93, (iii) it corresponds to a stored credit. For example, when a process of discharging medals from the medal discharge port 35 (settlement process) due to pressing of the settlement button 32 is performed.

In addition, the gaming state control unit 110 stores credits and manages the increase / decrease thereof.
More specifically, the gaming state control unit 110 subtracts a predetermined value from the stored credit when the pressing of the maximum bet button 23a or the single bet button 23b is detected.

  In addition, when the settlement button sensor 82 detects that the settlement button 32 is pressed, the gaming state control unit 110 executes a settlement process described later, and a medal corresponding to the number of stored credits is stored in the medal storage box. Pay out from 93.

  In addition, the game state control unit 110 stores a value corresponding to the number of medals assigned as a prize for a prize when the combination of symbols that are stopped and displayed is determined to be a winning by the display symbol determining unit 150. Add to your credits. In this addition process, when the stored credit reaches the upper limit, the gaming state control unit 110 pays out medals corresponding to the surplus number of medals to the medal storage 93.

In addition, the gaming state control unit 110 manages the conditions displayed on the state display LED board 42 and the conditions for accepting a stop operation for the stop button 27 (the above-described stoppable conditions). Here, the conditions displayed on the status display LED board 42 include the number of inserted medals, the number of stored medals (credits), the number of medals earned by winning a prize, the presence / absence of replaying, and the condition for starting the symbol variation game , Medal insertion possible conditions are included.
If the number of medals inserted (accepted by the bet accepting unit) does not reach a predetermined prescribed number due to acceptance of one medal, the gaming state control unit 110 performs after the acceptance of one medal. Delays the acceptance of medals. Further, the gaming state control unit 110 delays acceptance of the start operation when the number of inserted medals (accepted by the bet accepting unit) reaches a predetermined prescribed number by accepting one medal.

Further, the game state control unit 110 manages game setting values set by the setting change device 48. The game setting value affects the winning probability of the winning combination drawn by the internal lottery unit 120, the occurrence probability of various effects controlled by the sub board 200, or the like.
Note that the winning combination according to the present embodiment includes winning, replaying, an accessory or an accessory continuous operation device.

  In addition, the game state control unit 110 manages a lottery table referred to by the internal lottery unit 120 in the game. The lottery table referred to by the internal lottery unit 120 is preferably stored in the ROM 103 in advance, and a plurality of lottery tables are preferably provided. The lottery table referred to by the internal lottery unit 120 may be different between the lottery table referenced in the normal gaming state and the gaming state advantageous to the player such as ART and bonus games.

In addition, the game state control unit 110 can shift from a normal game state to a game state advantageous to the player such as ART or bonus game in accordance with the establishment of a predetermined condition. Furthermore, the gaming state control unit 110 can shift from a gaming state advantageous to the player to a normal gaming state in accordance with the establishment of a predetermined condition.
Here, “establishment of a predetermined condition” means, for example, winning a specific winning combination, winning a specific winning combination, winning a predetermined lottery, or winning a medal in that gaming state For example, the number exceeds a predetermined number.

The internal lottery unit 120 acquires a random number, refers to a lottery table stored in advance in the ROM 103, and determines which winning combination the acquired random number corresponds to.
The flag setting unit 130 sets a winning flag indicating that the winning combination drawn by the internal lottery unit 120 can be established. Here, winning combination means that a combination of symbols corresponding to the winning combination drawn by the internal lottery unit 120 is stopped and displayed on the active line as a result of the symbol variation game.

The rotation control unit 140 controls the rotation of the reel 65 by driving the reel motor 68. The control of the rotation control unit 140 includes, for example, a control for executing a symbol variation game by rotating a plurality of reels 65 and an effect performed during execution of a specific effect (for example, a so-called freeze effect). Includes reel control.
More specifically, the rotation control unit 140 outputs a pulse signal to the reel motor 68 so as to rotate each reel 65 at a predetermined speed during the symbol variation display execution period. The reel motor 68 is a stepping motor, and can input the pulse signal output from the rotation control unit 140 to rotate each reel 65 in various rotation modes.
The rotation angle (the number of moving frames) of the reel 65 increases in proportion to the length of the pulse signal output from the rotation control unit 140. Further, the rotation speed of the reel 65 increases in proportion to the frequency of the pulse signal output from the rotation control unit 140.

The display symbol determination unit 150 determines a combination of symbols displayed when all reels stop rotating. That is, the display symbol determination unit 150 determines which winning combination corresponds to the combination of symbols stopped and displayed on the active line in the symbol variation game.
For example, the above example of the effective line is a specific example and is not particularly limited in the implementation of the present invention.

The command generator 160 generates a command to be transmitted from the main board 100 to the sub board 200. The command generated by the command generation unit 160 includes conditions for determining each effect executed by the sub board 200.
The command generated by the command generation unit 160 is, for example, at a timing immediately after the operation of the start lever 26 (start of rotation of the reel 65), immediately after the operation of the stop button 27 (stop of rotation of the reel 65), or the like. Is transmitted. Note that the timing given here is one specific example, and the command generated by the command generation unit 160 may be transmitted to the sub-board 200 at another timing.

The sub control unit 210 controls the effect display unit 220, the audio output unit 230, or the LED light emitting unit 240 based on the command transmitted from the main board 100.
The effect display unit 220 has a function of controlling the effect display device 63, and causes the effect display device 63 to execute an effect based on display output in conjunction with the symbol variation game executed by the main board 100.
The audio output unit 230 has a function of controlling the speaker 49, and causes the speaker 49 to execute an effect by audio output in conjunction with the symbol variation game executed by the main board 100.
The LED light emitting unit 240 has a function of controlling the LEDs mounted on the decorative LED board 41, and causes the LED to execute an effect based on the light emission output in conjunction with the symbol variation game executed by the main board 100.

In addition, the sub control unit 210 performs the effect display unit 220, the audio output unit 230, or the LED emission according to the detection signals input from the various sensors 40b (the push button sensor 45c, the cross key button sensor 46a, and the decision button sensor 46b). The unit 240 can be controlled.
More specifically, when the sub control unit 210 receives detection signals from the various sensors 40b during execution of a part of the effect or display of the menu screen, the sub control unit 210 works on the effect display unit 220 and relates to the effect display area 62. The display is changed, the sound output unit 230 is operated to output a sound effect from the speaker 49, the LED light emitting unit 240 is operated to cause the decoration LED 36 mounted on the decoration LED substrate 41 to emit light with a special light emission pattern, etc. it can.

<Processing flow related to game progress>
Next, a main flow relating to game progression in the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. However, since the constituent elements illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 6 described above are also referred to, please refer to them appropriately.
FIG. 7 to FIG. 9 are flowcharts showing a main flow relating to game progression in the present embodiment.
10 to 12 are flowcharts showing a processing flow related to medal management.
FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing a processing flow relating to the settlement process.

The main board 100 executes the symbol variation game once while performing a series of processes from step S102 to step S146 shown in FIGS. 7 to 9, and the symbol variation game is executed by repeatedly executing the series of processes. Can be executed repeatedly.
Each process illustrated in FIGS. 7 to 9 is a specific example, and processes other than the processes described here may be performed by the main board 100. In addition, at least a part of the series of processes illustrated in FIGS. 7 to 9 is not necessarily executed by the main board 100.

First, the game state control unit 110 executes a game start process that is a process necessary in advance to start the next symbol variation game (step S102).
The game start process according to the present embodiment includes the following process, for example.
(I) Processing for storing various data related to the previous symbol variation game.
(Ii) A process of clearing data indicating symbols stopped and displayed in the previous symbol variation game.
(Iii) A process of acquiring the game setting value set at that time.

Subsequently, the gaming state control unit 110 executes a medal acceptance start process which is a preparation process for placing a medal on the next symbol variation game (step S104).
The medal acceptance start process according to the present embodiment includes, for example, the following process.
(I) A process of determining whether or not the number of stored medals has reached the upper limit and, if the result is negative, a process of requesting lighting of the insertable display LED 25f.
(Ii) A process of multiplying the next symbol variation game with the same number of medals as the medal that has been performed on the symbol variation game when the replay is activated as a result of the previous symbol variation game.

  Subsequently, when the re-game is not activated as a result of the previous symbol variation game (NO in step S106), the gaming state control unit 110 determines the medal to be performed based on the detected operation or the state of the gaming machine 10. The medal management process which is the process is executed (step S108).

  Here, the medal management process (step S108 in FIG. 7) by the gaming state control unit 110 will be described in more detail with reference to FIGS. Although not shown in FIGS. 10 to 12, in order to perform normal detection by the medal passage sensor 47 c, a check for a medal inserted from the medal insertion slot 31 and a normal operation of the medal selector 47 are ensured. Checks and the like may be performed separately.

First, the gaming state control unit 110 determines whether or not a turn-on request LED 25f is requested to be turned on in step S104 (step S202).
When the lighting request is not made (NO in step S202), the process proceeds to determination in step S230 described later.
When a lighting request is made (YES in step S202), the gaming state control unit 110 determines whether a winning flag for a regular bonus, which is one of the predetermined gaming states in the present embodiment, is established (the regular bonus is in the inside). It is determined whether or not (step S204).

If the regular bonus is inside (YES in step S204), if the current multiplier Nb is “1” (YES in step S206), a delay time is set as the time until the medal blocker 47b is activated (step S206). If the current multiplier Nb is other than “1” (NO in step S206), the normal time is set as the time until the medal blocker 47b is activated (step S212).
Here, the delay time is a time set as a time until the medal blocker 47b is activated when the game state control unit 110 performs a delay process.

  When the big bonus is inside (YES in step S208), if the current multiplier Nb is “2” (YES in step S210), a delay time is set as the time until the medal blocker 47b is activated (step S210). If the current multiplier Nb is other than “2” (NO in step S206), the normal time is set as the time until the medal blocker 47b is activated (step S212).

  When the regular bonus is not inside (NO in step S206) and the big bonus is not inside (NO in step S208), the normal time as the time until the medal blocker 47b is activated regardless of the current multiplier Nb Is set (step S212).

As described above, the gaming state control unit 110 according to the present embodiment determines the number of medals received until the reception of one medal, which is an opportunity for executing the delay process, as a predetermined gaming state type (regular bonus). Or is it a big bonus).
Therefore, the player can infer whether the game state in the inside is a regular bonus or a big bonus based on the multiplier Nb when the delay process is executed.

Subsequently, until the time set in step S212 or S214 elapses (NO in step S216), the gaming state control unit 110 executes the processing after step S230 described later without operating the medal blocker 47b. .
Alternatively, when the time set in step S212 or S214 has elapsed (YES in step S216), the gaming state control unit 110 activates the medal blocker 47b (step S218).

If the medal inserted from the medal slot 31 is detected by the medal passage sensor 47c after the medal blocker 47b is activated (YES in Step S220), the gaming state control unit 110 turns off the game start display LED 25e (Step S220). S222). In the process of step S222, if the game start display LED 25e is turned off at the time of the process, the light is kept off. If the game start display LED 25e is turned on at the time of the process, the process is switched off.
Next, the gaming state control unit 110 determines whether or not the current multiplier Nb has reached the set multiplier upper limit (step S224). In this embodiment, the upper limit of the multiplication number = 3.
If the multiplier upper limit has been reached (YES in step S224), 1 is added to the stored storage number Nc (step S228), and if the multiplier upper limit has not been reached (NO in step S224). Then, 1 is added to the current multiplier Nb (step S226).
When the process of step S226 or the process of step S228 is completed, the processing flow of the medal management process ends.

  Subsequently, the medal inserted from the medal slot 31 is not detected by the medal passage sensor 47c (NO in step S220), and the single bet button 23b is operated (YES in step S230) or the maximum bet button 23a. Will be described with reference to FIG. 11 (YES in step S240).

When the current bet number Nb has reached the set multiply limit at the time when the single bet button 23b is operated (YES in step S232), the gaming state control unit 110 updates the inserted number display LED 25a ( Step S234). Specifically, in this step S234, the gaming state control unit 110 turns off all the inserted number display LEDs 25a.
Then, the gaming state control unit 110 adds a value corresponding to the current multiplication number Nb to the stored number Nc (step S236), and returns the multiplication number Nb to zero (step S238).

The gaming state control unit 110 performs the storage input process after performing the process of step S238 (step S242). Alternatively, when the single bet button 23b is operated, the current multiplier Nb reaches the set multiplier upper limit (NO in Step S232), or the maximum bet button 23a is operated (Step S232). Similarly, in S240 (YES), the gaming state control unit 110 executes the storage input process (step S242).
The storage input process executed in step S242 subtracts 1 from the stored storage number Nc and adds 1 to the multiplication number Nb until the current multiplication number Nb reaches the “setting request number”. It is processing. Here, the “number of setting requests” is the number required by the operation of the bet button 23 that triggered the current storage input process. More specifically, when the operation of the maximum bet button 23a is triggered, the number of setting requests = 3, and when the operation of the single bet button 23b is triggered, the number of setting requests = 1.
Even when the maximum bet button 23a is operated, even when the multiplier Nb reaches the set multiplier upper limit, the process of step S242 is executed, but the multiplier Nb is equal to the set request number. Therefore, the multiplication processing of the multiplication number Nb is not substantially performed, and the appearance of the inserted number display LED 25a is not changed before and after step S242.

By the way, the medal inserted from the medal slot 31 is not detected by the medal passage sensor 47c (NO in step S220), the single bet button 23b is not operated (NO in step S230), and the maximum bet button 23a is also set. A case where the operation is not performed (NO in step S240) will be described with reference to FIG.
In this case, the gaming state control unit 110 determines whether or not the settlement button sensor 82 has been pressed by the settlement button sensor 82 (step S244).
If the settlement button sensor 82 is not detected by the settlement button sensor 82 (NO in step S244), the processing flow relating to the medal management process is terminated.

On the other hand, when depression of the settlement button 32 is detected by the settlement button sensor 82 (YES in step S244), the gaming state control unit 110 determines whether or not the stored storage number Nc exceeds zero. Determination is made (step S246).
When the storage number Nc is zero (NO in step S246), the process flow relating to the medal management process is terminated. On the other hand, when the storage number Nc exceeds zero (YES in step S246), the gaming state control unit 110 executes a settlement process described later (step S248).

Next, execution of the settlement process by the gaming state control unit 110 will be described with reference to FIG.
First, the gaming state control unit 110 turns off the insertable display LED 25f, stops the operation of the medal blocker 47b, and inhibits medal passage in the inserted medal passage 51 (step S302). Further, the game state control unit 110 turns off the game start display LED 25e (step S304). And the game state control part 110 outputs the command which shows that the adjustment process is started to the sub board | substrate 200 (step S306).

Next, the gaming state control unit 110 pays out one medal to the medal storage 93 (Step S308) and subtracts 1 from the stored number Nc (Step S310). Then, the gaming state control unit 110 updates the display of the stored number display LED 25b so as to correspond to the stored number Nc subtracted in step S310 (step S312).
Subsequently, when the stored storage number Nc exceeds zero (YES in step S314), the process returns to step S308. That is, the processing from step S308 to step S314 is repeatedly executed until the storage number Nc becomes zero.

On the other hand, when the stored storage number Nc is zero (YES in step S314), the gaming state control unit 110 outputs a command indicating that the settlement process is ended to the sub-board 200 (step S316).
Then, the gaming state control unit 110 turns on the insertable display LED 25f, operates the medal blocker 47b to allow the medal passage in the inserted medal passage 51 (step S318), and the processing flow related to the settlement process ends.

  In the present embodiment, the aspect in which the adjustment process can be executed when the storage number Nc exceeds zero is described. However, even when the multiplication number Nb exceeds zero, according to the detection of the adjustment button 32. A process for paying out the multiplier Nb may be added to the above settlement process.

  The description returns to the flowchart of FIG. If the replay is activated as a result of the previous symbol variation game (YES in step S106), the process proceeds to step S110 described later without executing the process in step S108.

Subsequently, the gaming state control unit 110 performs a reel rotation start check, which is a process for checking whether a condition for accepting a start operation on the start lever 26, that is, a condition for starting the symbol variation game is satisfied. (Step S110).
For example, the following items are included in the symbol changeable game start conditions checked in the reel rotation start check according to the present embodiment.
(I) The number of medals necessary for starting the symbol variation game (specified number) has already been multiplied.
(Ii) None of the stop buttons 27 are operated.
(Iii) The start lever sensor 44 is operating normally.

When it is confirmed by the check in step S110 that the start condition for the symbol variation game is satisfied, the gaming state control unit 110 waits for detection by the start lever sensor 44 with the game start display LED 25e lit. (NO in step S112).
Note that while waiting for detection by the start lever sensor 44, the gaming state control unit 110 repeats the processing from step S106 to step S110 described above.

  Subsequently, when the operation of the start lever 26 is detected by the start lever sensor 44 (YES in step S112), the internal lottery unit 120 executes an internal lottery using the lottery table related to the winning combination (step S114), If the winning flag corresponding to the winning combination or not winning is selected, the non-winning flag is set by the flag setting unit 130 (step S116).

Subsequently, the gaming state control unit 110 determines whether or not the above-described wait time has elapsed, and waits until it has elapsed (NO in step S118).
When the wait time has elapsed (YES in step S118), the rotation control unit 140 drives the reel motor 68 to start rotation of the plurality of reels 65 (reel 65L, reel 65C, reel 65R). (Step S120). If the above-described wait time has not elapsed at the timing of processing step S120, the rotation control unit 140 waits for the elapse of the wait time to start the rotation of the plurality of reels 65.

In addition, the rotation control unit 140 determines whether the symbol number value being passed detected by the reel sensor 66 (reel sensor 66L, reel sensor 66C, reel sensor 66R) during rotation of the reel 65 is normal. A reel rotation error check, which is a process for monitoring whether there is an abnormality, is executed (step S122).
In step S122, when it is determined that any of the plurality of reels 65 has the detected symbol number value being passed (YES in step S124), the rotation control unit 140 determines that there is an abnormality. The process of step S120 is performed again on the reel 65 that has been used. This process is also referred to as reel restart.
Further, in step S122, if it is determined that the detected symbol number value being passed is normal for any of the plurality of reels 65 (NO in step S124), the reels are not restarted. Move on to the next process.

Further, the rotation control unit 140 monitors whether or not the rotation speeds of all the reels 65 have reached a predetermined speed. While not reaching the predetermined speed (NO in step S126), the above-described steps are performed. The processing of S122 and step S124 is repeated.
Then, after the rotation speeds of all the reels 65 reach a predetermined speed (YES in step S126), the rotation control unit 140 checks whether or not there is a request (stop request) for stopping the rotation of the reels 65. A reel stop acceptance check, which is a process to be executed, is executed (step S128).
In the reel stop acceptance check according to this embodiment, when the stop button sensor 43a detects the operation of the stop button 27 (stop button 27L, stop button 27C, stop button 27R), the reel 65 corresponding to the operated stop button 27 is displayed. At least a process in which the gaming state control unit 110 outputs a stop request to the game and is received by the rotation control unit 140 is included.

When the rotation control unit 140 receives a stop request in step S128 (YES in step S130), the rotation control unit 140 displays a combination of symbols that are stopped and displayed in the reel frame 64 as a result of the symbol variation game. The symbol combination control which is a process to determine is executed (step S132).
If the rotation control unit 140 has not received a stop request in step S128 (NO in step S130), the process proceeds to the next process without executing the symbol combination control.

The symbol combination control according to the present embodiment includes the following processing, for example.
(I) The symbol number of the symbol passing the reference position at the time when the stop request is received is stored in a predetermined address of the RAM 102 as the symbol number at the time of stop reception.
(Ii) The rotation control unit 140 indicates the symbol number at the time of stop reception based on the winning flag or the non-winning flag set at step S116 and the symbol number at the time of stop reception stored in the processing of (i). Either the symbol or the symbol within the range of 4 frames in the rotation direction from the symbol is determined as the symbol to be stopped at the reference position.
(Iii) The rotation control unit 140 stops the symbol determined in (ii) at the reference position.

Subsequently, the gaming state control unit 110 executes a stop display output process that is a process of outputting a command including an effect request accompanying the stop of the reel 65 in step S132 to the sub control unit 210 via the command generation unit 160. (Step S134).
Note that the command output in step S134 does not need to be executed every time it is processed, and it is sufficient if it is executed when the gaming state control unit 110 determines that an effect is to be executed.

When all the reels 65 are not stopped when the stop display output process is completed (NO in step S136), the process proceeds to step S122 again, and the processes from step S122 to step S134 are repeated.
When all the reels 65 are stopped when the stop display output process is completed (YES in step S136), the symbols displayed by the display symbol determination unit 150 when the reels 65 are stopped are displayed. The determination process related to the combination is performed (step S138).
In step S138, when the display symbol determination unit 150 determines that a winning is achieved, the winning is established, and a predetermined number of medals are awarded as a privilege corresponding to the winning (step S140).
In principle, the medals awarded in step S140 are stored and stored in the number of credits. However, when the number of credits reaches the upper limit, the gaming state control unit 110 controls a payout mechanism (not shown) built in the medal storage 93 to obtain medals corresponding to the number exceeding the credit number. Then, the medals are discharged from the medal storage 93 to the medal discharge port 35.

Subsequently, the gaming state control unit 110 receives a command including a request relating to an effect that is executed in the stop period after receiving the final stop operation for the current game, that is, an effect associated with all the reels 65 being stopped. Then, an all reel stop display output process that is a process to be output to the sub control unit 210 via the command generation unit 160 is executed (step S142).
The effects requested in step S142 include, for example, a bonus start effect that is executed when the game is shifted to a bonus game with a bonus symbol stop display.
It should be noted that the command output in step S142 does not need to be executed every time it is processed, and it is sufficient if it is executed when the gaming state control unit 110 determines that an effect is to be executed.

Subsequently, the gaming state control unit 110 performs an overflow check, which is a process of checking a storage error sensor (not shown) provided in the medal storage 93 or the medal auxiliary storage 95 (step S144).
If it is confirmed in step S144 that the storage error sensor has detected an abnormality, the gaming state control unit 110 sends a command including an error display request to the sub management unit 210 via the command generation unit 160. Output. In addition, the sub control unit 210 controls the effect display unit 220 to display an error display on the effect display device 63, and controls the audio output unit 230 to output an error sound from the speaker 49.

Subsequently, the game state control unit 110 executes a game end check that is a process related to the end of the symbol variation game (step S146), and the series of processes ends.
For example, the following items are included in the check target in the game end check according to the present embodiment.
(I) End the re-game operation.
(Ii) End the bonus game.

As described above, the gaming state control unit 110 executes the predetermined game with the execution of the delay process at least when the transition to the predetermined gaming state is confirmed or when the gaming state control unit 110 has transitioned to the predetermined gaming state. The player is notified of the transition to the state.
Since such notification is novel, the player's interest is strongly attracted.

<Modification of the present invention>
So far, the present invention has been described with reference to the embodiments described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 13, but the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, so long as the object of the present invention is achieved. Various modifications, improvements, etc. are also included.

In the above embodiment, on condition that the regular bonus is inside and the current multiplier Nb is “1”, or the big bonus is inside and the current multiplier Nb is “1”. Although the mode in which the delay process is executed on the condition of “2” has been described, the embodiment of the present invention is not limited to this.
For example, it may be a condition that the transition to another gaming state is confirmed or staying, or a random number lottery that determines whether or not to execute a delay process may be combined with the condition.

In the above embodiment, the delay process is realized by delaying the time until the medal blocker 47b is activated when the lighting request LED 25f lighting request is received, but the present invention is limited to this mode. Absent.
For example, the delay process is realized by delaying the time until the game start display LED 25e is turned on after the predetermined prescribed number of medals are inserted (betted) (the time until the startable condition is satisfied). Also good. In the case of this aspect, the execution timing of the delay process may be before the determination in step S112, according to the flowchart of FIG.

  In the above description of the embodiment, the description has been made on the assumption of the functional configuration illustrated in each drawing, but each component of the present invention may be formed so as to realize the function. Therefore, each component of the gaming machine of the present invention does not have to be individually independent, but a plurality of components are formed as one member, and one component is formed of a plurality of members. That a certain component is a part of another component, a part of a certain component overlaps a part of another component, and the like.

  A plurality of flowcharts are used in the description of the above embodiment. These flowcharts include a plurality of steps described in order. However, the description order does not limit the order and timing of executing the plurality of steps to the one mode illustrated. Therefore, when carrying out the present invention, the order of the plurality of steps can be changed within a range that does not hinder the contents, and even if some or all of the execution timings of the plurality of steps overlap each other. Good.

This embodiment includes the following technical ideas.
(1) A gaming machine that uses a game medium to execute a game, a game state control unit that shifts to any one of a plurality of game states, and a bet reception unit that accepts the game medium for use in a game And after the bet accepting means accepts a predetermined number of game media, a start accepting means for accepting a start operation by the player, a reel that starts to rotate with the start operation by the player, and a predetermined gaming state. At least in part when the transition of the game is confirmed or when the transition to the predetermined gaming state occurs, the reception of the one game medium by the bet reception means after the reception of the one game medium A game machine comprising: delay control means for executing a delay process for delaying at least one of reception of a game medium or start operation to be performed.
(2) When the number of game media accepted by the bet accepting unit does not reach the predetermined number due to acceptance of the one game medium, the delay control means performs after the acceptance of the one game medium. When the number of game media received by the bet receiving means reaches the predetermined number by receiving the one game media, the start operation is delayed (1). The gaming machine described in 1.
(3) The delay control means determines the number of game media that have been received until the reception of the one game media, which is an opportunity to execute the delay process, based on the type of the predetermined game state ( The gaming machine according to 1) or (2).

10 gaming machine 20 front door 21 upper panel 22 lower panel 23 bet button 23a maximum bet button 23b single bet button 24 menu selection button 24a cross key button 24b decision button 25 status display LED
25a Inserted number display LED
25b Stored number display LED
25c Acquisition number display LED
25d Re-play indicator LED
25e Game start display LED
25f Possible to display LED
26 Start lever 27 (27L, 27C, 27R) Stop button 27a Stop possible indicator LED
31 Medal slot 32 Checkout button 33 Medal return button 34 Door lock 35 Medal outlet 36 (36a, 36b, 36c, 36d, 36e, 36f, 36g, 36h) Decoration LED
37 Lower plate 38 (38a, 38b, 38c, 38d) Speaker openings 40a, 40b Various sensors 41 (41a, 41b, 41c, 41d, 41e, 41f, 41g, 41h) Decoration LED board 42 Status display LED board 43 Stop button board 43a Stop button sensor 44 Start lever sensor 45 Bet button board 45a Maximum bet button sensor 45b Single bet button sensor 45c Push button sensor 46 Menu selection button board 46a Cross key button sensor 46b Determination button sensor 47 Medal selector 47a Medal selector main body 47b Medal Blocker 47c Medal passage sensor 48 Setting change device 48a Setting key switch 48b Setting change switch 48c Setting display LED
48d Setting key cover 49 (49a, 49b, 49c, 49d) Speaker 51 Inserted medal passage 52 Payout medal passage 53 Return medal passage 54 Stored medal passage 60 Game machine main body 62 Effect display area 63 Effect display device 64 Reel frame 65 (65L) , 65C, 65R) Reel 66 (66L, 66C, 66R) Reel sensor 67 (67L, 67C, 67R) Reel illumination board 68 Reel motor 82 Settling button sensor 90 Outer frame 91 Power supply unit 92 Power switch 93 Medal storage 94 Medal payment Exit 95 Medal auxiliary storage 96 Hinge part 96a Upper hinge part 96b Middle hinge part 96c Lower hinge part 97 Discharge control board 100 Main boards 101, 201 CPU
102, 202 RAM
103, 203 ROM
110 gaming state control unit 120 internal lottery unit 130 flag setting unit 140 rotation control unit 150 display symbol determination unit 160 command generation unit 200 sub board 210 sub control unit 220 production display unit 230 audio output unit 240 LED light emitting units L1 to L5 lines

Claims (3)

A gaming machine that uses a gaming medium to execute a game,
Gaming state control means for shifting to any one of a plurality of gaming states;
Bet accepting means for accepting game media for use in a game;
Start accepting means for accepting a start operation by the player after the bet accepting means accepts a predetermined number of game media;
A reel that starts to rotate in response to a start operation by the player,
When the transition to the predetermined gaming state is confirmed or at least part of the transition to the predetermined gaming state, the one game is triggered by reception of one gaming medium by the bet receiving means. A gaming machine comprising delay control means for executing a delay process for delaying at least one of reception of a game medium or reception of a start operation performed after reception of the medium. The delay control means includes
If the number of game media accepted by the bet accepting means does not reach the predetermined number by accepting the one game media, delay the acceptance of game media performed after accepting the one game media,
2. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein when the number of game media received by the bet receiving means reaches the predetermined number by receiving the one game media, the start operation is delayed.   The delay control means determines the number of game media that are received before the reception of the one game medium, which is an opportunity to execute the delay process, based on the type of the predetermined game state. 2. The gaming machine according to 2.

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