JP2021078653A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide a game machine capable of reducing an auditory burden of a hall staff or the like by adjusting volume of voice outputted during preparation work of a game machine.SOLUTION: A game machine includes state management means for shifting to a maintenance state when a first shift condition is satisfied and for shifting to another state when a second shift condition is satisfied. When the same volume stage is set, volume of voice outputted from voice output means in the maintenance state is smaller than volume of voice outputted from the voice output means in another state, and the first shift condition is satisfied based on power-on.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 9

Description

The present invention relates to a gaming machine such as a rotating body type gaming machine.

In a gaming machine represented by a rotating body type gaming machine, a sound effect such as a voice is played according to a fluctuation of a symbol to give a player a sense of expectation due to the fluctuation of the symbol. By allowing the player to adjust the volume of this sound effect flowing from the speaker and limiting the range of the volume that the player can adjust on the hall side, not only the player himself but also other players The game environment is also taken into consideration. (See, for example, Patent Document 1)

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2008-295551

The gaming machine disclosed in Patent Document 1 is configured so that the range of the volume that can be adjusted by the player can be limited on the hall side, but the volume of the sound produced during the preparation work of the gaming machine. Since the adjustment was not taken into consideration, there was a problem that there was a hearing burden on the hall staff.

The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and by making it possible to adjust the volume of the sound output during the preparation work of the gaming machine, it is possible to reduce the auditory burden on the hall staff and the like. It provides an opportunity.

By setting a sound output means for producing sound, a sound output control means for controlling the sound output means, and one of a plurality of predetermined volume stages, the sound output means A volume control means that can adjust the volume of the sound output from the sound, and a state management means that shifts to the maintenance state when the first transition condition is satisfied and shifts to another state when the second transition condition is satisfied. , And the same volume level is set, the volume of the sound output from the sound output means in the maintenance state is output from the sound output means in the other state. A game machine is provided, which is smaller than the volume of sound and the first transition condition is satisfied based on power-on.

According to the present invention, by reducing the volume of sound output during the preparatory work of the gaming machine, it is possible to reduce the auditory burden in the maintenance work and facilitate the maintenance work. Further, by making it difficult for the player to satisfy the transition condition to the maintenance state, it is possible to maintain the volume of the sound necessary for hall management such as error notification.

It is a front view of a gaming machine. It is a perspective view of the hand region II shown by the broken line in FIG. It is a figure which shows the back surface of the front door. It is a figure which shows the gaming machine excluding the front door. It is a figure which shows the electric composition of a game machine. It is a functional block diagram of a gaming machine. This screen is used by hall staff to set the maximum / standard volume level. This screen is used by the player to set the volume. It is a figure which shows the setting value of the maximum volume and the standard volume. It is a figure which shows the security sound which is output when the volume setting operation is performed, and the confirmation sound. It is a flowchart of the main flow in the main board. It is a flowchart of the main flow in the main board. It is a flowchart of the main flow in the main board.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In all the drawings, the same components are designated by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof will be omitted as appropriate. Further, in the following description, "front", "rear", "left", "right", "upper", and "lower" mean that the gaming machine 10 is on the front side (player side) as shown in FIG. ) Shall be designated.
In the following description, "advantage (advantage)" means that it is advantageous to the player, and unless otherwise specified, the game medium except for the so-called premier image and other production benefits. It means that it is advantageous in terms of the amount of acquisition (hereinafter, simply referred to as "medal").

<Overview>
Before explaining the details of the gaming machine 10 according to the present embodiment, the outline of the features of the present embodiment will be described.
The gaming machine 10 according to the present embodiment sets a sound output means for producing sound, a sound output control means for controlling the sound output means, and one volume stage among a plurality of predetermined volume stages. By doing so, the volume control means that can adjust the volume of the sound output from the sound output means, and when the first transition condition is satisfied, the state is shifted to the maintenance state, and when the second transition condition is satisfied, the other When the same volume level is set with the state management means for shifting to the state, the volume of the sound output from the sound output means in the maintenance state is output from the sound output means in the other state. It is characterized in that it is smaller than the volume of the sound to be sounded, and the first transition condition is satisfied based on the power-on.

Here, the "sound output means" corresponds to the speaker 49 and the speaker port 38 that outputs the sound output from the speaker 49. The speaker 49 and the speaker port 38 do not have to be separate bodies, and may be integrally formed.
Further, the "volume stage" is a status related to the setting of the volume, and has a plurality of stages. The "volume stage" is not limited to the digital representation of the volume, but may also include the analog representation of the volume.
Examples of the configuration corresponding to the “sound output control means” in the present embodiment include the voice control unit 224 and the voice control board 310 provided on the sub-board 200.
Further, as a configuration corresponding to the "volume control means" in the present embodiment, the voice control unit 224 and the voice control board 310 provided on the sub-board 200 can be mentioned.

Here, the "maintenance state" is a state in which a sound volume lower than that of the "other state" is output when the same volume level is set. By shifting to the "maintenance state", for example, when the hall staff performs the preparatory work, the auditory burden related to the work can be reduced.
The name "maintenance state" is given for convenience because it is a state designed mainly for the hall staff to perform maintenance work, and of course, this state can be set. It does not have to be limited to during maintenance work of hall staff. For example, the person in charge of development of the gaming machine maker may reduce the auditory burden related to the test work by shifting to the “maintenance state” during the development test of the gaming machine.
The content of the "first transition condition" that should be satisfied in order to transition to the "maintenance state" is not particularly limited, but it is preferable that the transition condition is suitable for the above purpose. For example, the "first transition condition" may be satisfied based on the power being turned on, or an operation that is difficult for the player (operation for the operating means or the gaming machine that can be operated by opening the front door 20). It is preferable that the operation is established based on the operation for the operating means provided on the back surface side of the 10. Conversely, it is preferable that the "first transition condition" is not satisfied by the operation with respect to the operating means received in the playable state.

Here, the "other state" is a state in which a louder sound volume is output than in the "maintenance state" when the same volume level is set. By shifting to the "other state", the sound related to the game can be heard at the original volume.
In the implementation of the present invention, it is not necessary that all the states other than the "maintenance state" among the plurality of states managed by the state management means are "other states", and at least one state is "other". It suffices if the above requirements related to "state of" are satisfied.
The content of the "second transition condition" that should be satisfied in order to transition to the "other state" may not be satisfied at the same time as the "first transition condition".
In the present embodiment, the "first transition condition" corresponds to the fact that the two sub-board on-board switches 205 provided on the sub-board 200 are both ON when the power is turned on, and the "second transition". The "condition" corresponds to the fact that at least one of the two sub-board on-board switches 205 provided on the sub-board 200 is in the OFF state when the power is turned on.

The "state management means" for managing the "maintenance state" and the "other state" may be realized by the main board 100 or the sub board 200. In this embodiment, the sub-state management unit 230 provided on the sub-board 200 is illustrated as a configuration corresponding to the “state management means”.

Since the gaming machine 10 can be shifted to the above-mentioned "maintenance state", the auditory burden in the maintenance work can be reduced and the maintenance work can be facilitated.

The gaming machine 10 having the above-mentioned characteristics will be specifically described based on the following embodiments.

<Structure of gaming machine 10>
First, the structure of the gaming machine 10 will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 4. 1 is a front view of the gaming machine 10, FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the hand region II surrounded by a broken line in FIG. 1, and FIG. 3 is a view showing the back surface of the front door 20. , FIG. 4 is a view showing the front surface of the gaming machine 10 excluding the front door 20.

The gaming machine 10 includes a rectangular parallelepiped outer frame 90 having an open front surface, a front door 20 pivotally supported on the left edge side of the outer frame 90 so as to be rotatable and openable, and a gaming machine main body 60. .. 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, and a start lever 26 are provided. A stop button 27, a medal insertion slot 31, a settlement button 32, a medal return button 33, a door lock 34, a medal discharge port 35, a decorative 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, and a menu are provided. A selection button board 46, a medal selector 47, a setting changing device 48, a speaker 49, an input medal passage 51, a payout medal passage 52, a return medal passage 53, and a storage medal passage 54 are provided.

Further, as shown in FIG. 4, the gaming machine 10 includes a gaming machine main body 60, a power supply device 91, a hopper 93, and a medal auxiliary storage 95.

Further, in order to open the front door 20, it is necessary to insert a door key (not shown) into the door lock 34 to release the lock mechanism (not shown) that locks the front door 20 and the outer frame 90. When the front door 20 is opened, as shown in FIG. 4, the power supply device 91 provided below the gaming machine main body 60 can be confirmed. In the present embodiment, a door opening sensor (not shown) for determining whether or not the front door 20 is opened is provided on the right edge side of the outer frame 90.

The power supply device 91 is a device for supplying electric power to each component of the gaming machine 10, and its start or stop is controlled by operating a power switch 92 provided in the device. Therefore, in order to enjoy the game, it is necessary to operate the power switch 92 with the front door 20 open to start the power supply device 91. In the present embodiment, each of the main board 100 described later and the sub board 200 described later is held before the power supply is turned off even if the power supply from the power supply device 91 is turned off. It has a function to maintain the information that was being used.

The setting change device 48 provided on the back side of the front door 20 is for performing a setting change process for changing the game setting value and a setting confirmation process for confirming the already set game setting value. It is a device, and includes a setting key switch 48a, a setting change switch 48b, a setting display LED 48c, and a setting key cover 48d. The details of the setting change process and the setting confirmation process will be described later.
The setting display LED 48c is an LED that displays the game setting value that is being changed in the setting change process and displays the game setting value that has already been set in the setting confirmation process. In the present embodiment, the setting display LED 48c is composed of a 7-segment display. There is.
The setting key cover 48d is a cover that covers the setting key switch 48a, and by sliding the setting key cover 48d, the setting key can be inserted into the setting key switch 48a for operation. Note that FIG. 3 illustrates a state in which the setting key cover 48d covers the setting key switch 48a.
Here, the game set value is different from the game set value in that the payout rate indicating the expected value of the number of medals to be paid out is different from the number of medals used in the game. Exists. In general, the larger the set game set value, the higher the ball output rate. Similarly, in the present embodiment, the ball output rate increases as the game set value changes from 1 to 6.

Further, the front door 20 has an upper panel 21 and a lower panel 22 on the front side.
Since the upper panel 21 is made of a transparent member, the player located in front of the gaming machine 10 can visually recognize the gaming machine main body 60 arranged on the back surface side of the upper panel 21 through the upper panel 21. Can be done.
The model name of the gaming machine 10 and characters related to the model are written on the surface of the lower panel 22, and the model name and the like shown by lighting the backlight (not shown) installed at the rear can be easily seen. ..

Further, the gaming machine main body 60 includes a main component that controls a game played by the gaming machine 10, and specifically, as shown in FIG. 4, an effect display area 62 is formed in the upper part of the front surface thereof. A reel frame 64 is formed in the lower part of the front surface thereof.

The effect display area 62 is a display screen of the effect display device 63 built in the game machine main body 60, and can display effects and information related to the game of the game machine 10. As the effect display device 63, for example, a liquid crystal display type display device or the like can be adopted, and the effect displayed in the effect display area 62 is linked with the sound output from the speaker 49 and the light emission of the decorative LED 36. Therefore, it is possible to arouse the interest of the player.

The reel frame 64 is a window frame formed on the front side of the 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 internal region of the reel frame 64 is formed of a cavity or a transparent member, and a part of each of the reels 65 is visible through the internal region. Further, the outer region of the reel frame 64 is formed of an opaque member (including a semitransparent member and a member in which the transparent member is colored), which makes it difficult to visually recognize the reel 65 through the external region.

Here, the reel 65 is composed of a reel 65L, a reel 65C, and a reel 65R, and these reels are configured to be rotatable by a stepping motor. When the reel 65 in the present embodiment rotates, in principle, the reel 65 rotates from top to bottom, the direction of rotation from top to bottom of the reel 65 is "forward", and the direction of rotation from bottom to top is "forward". Sometimes referred to as "reverse direction".
Further, each of the reels 65 is provided with a plurality of types of symbols, and the symbols applied to the reels 65 are displayed in a variable manner by rotating the reels 65, and the symbols are stopped by stopping the rotating reels 65. indicate.

Further, a reel lighting board 67 (67L, 67C, 67R) is provided inside the reel 65, and each symbol represented on the reel 65 can be visually recognized by lighting the LED mounted on the reel lighting board 67. It's easy. That is, the LED mounted on the reel lighting board 67 functions as a backlight for displaying a symbol on the reel 65.

The start lever 26 can accept the operation of the player as an opportunity to start the game. Here, 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 in the on state or the off state. 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 the present embodiment, if the number of medals used in the game (hereinafter referred to as the number of bets) does not reach the maximum number (3 in the present embodiment), the game is played even if the start lever 26 is operated. Not started. Therefore, in order to reach the maximum number of bets, medals are inserted from the medal slot 31 to increase the number of bets, or medals (hereinafter referred to as credits) stored in the gaming machine 10 are subtracted by pressing the bet button 23. It is necessary to increase the number of bets.
If the replay role is won in the previous game, the replay is activated in the game, the number of bets in the previous game is set as the number of bets in the current game, and medals are inserted from the medal slot 31. By pressing the bet button 23, the game can be started without setting a new medal in the bet number.
Further, in the present embodiment, the game is started only when the start lever 26 is operated when the number of bets is the maximum number, but the start lever 26 is operated when the number of bets is smaller than the maximum number and is 1 or more. The game may be started when the game is played. In this case, the internal lottery unit 111, which will be described later, may use the internal lottery table corresponding to the number of bets.

Here, the storage of medals means a function of storing a numerical value (credit) corresponding to a part or all of the medals owned by the player inside the gaming machine 10. When medals are accumulated (credits are added), for example, medals are inserted from the medal slot 31 in excess of a predetermined number, or a winning combination is won.

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 surface side of the medal insertion slot 31, and medals inserted from the medal insertion slot 31 are the medal selector 47. It is sorted into medals that can be accepted and medals that cannot be accepted.
For example, since the medal can be accepted in the standby state (the power is turned on but the game is not performed), the medal selector main body 47a operates the medal blocker 47b having a solenoid. When the medal blocker 47b is activated, a protrusion (not shown) provided in the middle of the insertion medal passage 51 is buried, so that the insertion medal passage 51 is in a state of allowing medal passage. At this time, when a medal is inserted from the medal insertion slot 31, the medal flows down into the insertion medal passage 51, is detected by the medal passage sensor 47c provided in the middle of the insertion medal passage 51, and enters the storage medal passage 54. It passes through and is stored in the hopper 93.

Further, since the medal cannot be accepted during the execution of the game or when the credit reaches the upper limit value, the medal selector main body 47a stops the operation of the medal blocker 47b. When the operation of the medal blocker 47b is stopped, a protrusion (not shown) protrudes in the middle of the inserted medal passage 51 to obstruct the passage of the medal. Therefore, the inserted medal is in the middle of the inserted medal passage 51. Moreover, it stays at a position not detected by the medal passing sensor 47c. The medals staying in the inserted medal passage 51 fall into the returned medal passage 53 by their own weight or by operating the medal return button 33, and are discharged to the lower plate 37 via the medal ejection port 35.

When medals are awarded in excess of the credit upper limit, the number of medals corresponding to the number of medals given in excess of the upper limit is passed from the hopper 93 to the lower plate via the medal outlet 35. It is discharged to 37.

Further, the gaming machine 10 has a maximum bet button 23a and a single bet button 23b as the bet button 23, and an operation on each button is detected by a sensor provided on the bet button board 45. More specifically, the maximum bet button sensor 45a is provided for the maximum bet button 23a, and the single bet button sensor 45b is provided for the single bet button 23b, and the operation for each button is individually detected by these sensors. Will be done.
The maximum bet button 23a subtracts the maximum number of bets (3 in the present embodiment) by the maximum number of credits in one operation, and adds the subtracted amount to the maximum number of bets to increase the number of bets. The single bet button 23b is a button for subtracting 1 credit and adding 1 bet number in one operation. When the number of bets has reached the maximum number, the number of bets cannot be added by subtracting the credits by operating any of the bet buttons 23.

Further, the maximum bet button 23a may be used not only as an application (bet button) for increasing the number of bets by subtracting credits according to an operation as described above, but also as an opportunity for executing an effect (effect button). is there.
When the maximum bet button 23a is used as a bet button, it is limited to a state in which the number of bets can be added, but when the maximum bet button 23a is used as an effect button, it is not limited to this state, for example. , Any state may be adopted, such as during the re-game operation before the start of the game or during the game.

The bet button board 45 is provided with an effect button sensor 45c that detects the pressing of the maximum bet button 23a when the maximum bet button 23a is used as the effect button, and is distinguished from the detection by the maximum bet button sensor 45a. ..
The difference is that the maximum bet button sensor 45a is directly connected to the main board 100, whereas the effect button sensor 45c is directly connected to the sub board 200.

Further, the gaming machine 10 includes a menu selection button 24 on the left side of the bet button 23. The menu selection button 24 is composed of a cross key button 24a mounted on the menu selection button board 46 and a determination button 24b located at the center of the cross key button 24a.

The menu selection button 24 is a component that accepts the staff menu screen and operations related to the menu screen. Here, the staff menu screen refers to a screen for setting various information of the gaming machine 10 displayed in the effect display area 62, and the menu screen is an operation of the gaming machine 10 displayed in the effect display area 62. Refers to a screen that shows explanation information of methods and games.
Hall staff, developers of manufacturers, and the like can browse the staff menu screen by operating the menu selection button 24.
For example, the staff menu screen is displayed in the effect display area 62 while the setting is being confirmed, and the hall staff, the developer of the manufacturer, or the like operates the cross key button 24a to move the cursor to a position indicating an arbitrary setting menu, and the cursor. When the hall staff, the developer of the manufacturer, or the like presses the enter button 24b when any of the setting menus is indicated, the setting menu is displayed in the effect display area 62.
In addition, the player can browse the menu screen by operating the menu selection button 24. For example, when the enter button 24b is pressed in the standby state, the menu list and the cursor are displayed in the effect display area 62. The player moves the cursor to a position indicating an arbitrary menu by operating the cross key button 24a, and when the cursor indicates one of the menus, when the player presses the enter button 24b, the menu is displayed as an effect. It is displayed in the area 62.

Here, the standby state in the eco mode will be described.
The "eco mode" is a state for the purpose of suppressing the power consumption of the gaming machine, and is, for example, a mode for controlling by suppressing the brightness of the LED and controlling the volume of sound output.
First, before explaining in the "eco mode", what kind of display is made in the "non-eco mode" will be explained. In the "non-eco mode", 1) company name logo → 2) slogan to prevent entanglement → 3) model-specific video → 4) model logo → 1) company name logo → ... are repeatedly displayed.
3) During the period when the model-specific video is displayed, the following contents shall be displayed or displayed in a blinking manner.
B) The user menu screen can be displayed.
B) You can check the "reel arrangement / payout table" from the user menu screen.
C) "Volume adjustment" can be performed from the user menu screen.
On the other hand, in the eco mode, the following contents are left displayed.
D) Display of "Eco mode" e) Display of "Game is possible" f) Display of slogan to prevent entanglement When the state is reached, the predetermined points and the number of games are displayed by any of the following methods.
A) Display the specified points and the number of games even in the standby state.
B) Display the specified points and the number of games in the user menu.
C) Operate the cross key button 24a from the user menu to display the normal screen when the user menu is closed.

The menu selection button board 46 is provided with a cross key button sensor 46a and a decision button sensor 46b. In the cross key button sensor 46a, the cross key button 24a moves up and down in which direction (with respect to the center of the decision button 24b). It is possible to detect whether the button is pressed in either the left or right direction. Further, the decision button sensor 46b can detect that the decision button 24b has been pressed.
The cross key button sensor 46a and the decision button sensor 46b are directly connected to the sub-board 200 in the same manner as the effect button sensor 45c described above.

Further, the gaming machine 10 is provided with a status display LED 25 on the right side of the bet button 23, which displays information about the gaming machine 10 such as the number of inserted medals and the number of stored medals. The status display LED 25 is composed of a plurality of LEDs or a 7-segment display mounted on the status display LED board 42, and is composed of the following eight types of LEDs.
The first input number display LED 25a is composed of three LEDs, and each time the number of bets increases, the number of LEDs to be lit increases by one.
The second stored number display LED 25b is composed of two 7-segment displays, and represents the number of stored medals (credits) numerically.
The third winning number display LED 25c is composed of two 7-segment displays, and represents the number of medals won by winning a number.
The fourth instruction display LED 25d is composed of two 7-segment displays, and displays the correct pressing order, which will be described later, in a identifiable manner. The details of the aspect of the instruction display LED 25d will be described later.
The fifth replay display LED 25e is composed of one LED and lights up when the replay is stopped and displayed in the game.
The sixth game start display LED 25f is composed of one LED, and indicates that the game start enable condition is satisfied by lighting the LED.
The seventh insertable display LED 25g is composed of one LED, and indicates that a medal can be inserted by lighting the LED.
The eighth advantageous mode display LED 25h is composed of one LED and lights up corresponding to the game mode. The details of the mode of the advantageous mode display LED 25h will be described later.

The stop button 27 receives from the player an operation (stop operation) of the player that triggers the rotating reel 65 to stop. The stop button 27 can accept (activate) the stop operation when the stop enable condition that is satisfied after the reel 65 starts rotating is satisfied.
The player's operation on the stop button 27 is to press the stop button 27. Further, the stoptable condition is a precondition for displaying the stop in the game. Specifically, all the rotation speeds of the reels 65 (65L, 65C, 65R) reach a predetermined speed, and the reels 65 It is a condition that is satisfied when the reference position in each is detected.

Each of the stop buttons 27 (27L, 27C, 27R) is mounted on the stop button board 43, and one is provided for each of the reels 65. Specifically, the stop button 27L accepts a stop operation for stopping the reel 65L, the stop button 27C accepts a stop operation for stopping the reel 65C, and the stop button 27R stops the reel 65R. Accepts the stop operation of.

Further, the stop button board 43 is provided with a stop button sensor 43a that individually detects that the stop button 27L, the stop button 27C, and the stop button 27R have been pressed, and the reel is provided in response to the detection of the stop button sensor 43a. Control is performed to stop the rotation for each of the 65. That is, the stop button 27 and the stop button sensor 43a detect a stop operation that triggers the reel control unit 112, which will be described later, to stop the rotation of the reel 65.

The stop button 27 in the present embodiment includes a stoptable indicator LED 27a, and the periphery thereof is covered with a light-transmitting member. The stop button 27 is designed to notify the player of whether or not the stoptable condition is satisfied by the lighting color of the stoptable display LED 27a. In this way, since it is possible to determine whether or not the stoptable condition is satisfied by the color of the stop button 27, the player can smoothly perform the stop operation in sequence.

Further, in the present embodiment, the stop position of the reel 65 is up to the maximum number of retracted frames (sometimes referred to as the maximum retractable range, 4 in the present embodiment) with reference to the position of the reel 65 when the stop button 27 is pressed. Can move. Here, the control from the pressing of the stop button 27 to the stop of the reel 65 is generally referred to as pull-in control.

The internal area corresponding to each of the reels 65 of the reel frame 64 has dimensions for three frames in the vertical direction. Further, each of the reels 65 is stopped and controlled so that the three symbols fit in the vertical direction of the internal region of the reel frame 64, so that the player can visually recognize the three symbols through the internal region of the reel frame 64. It has become. That is, since three reels are arranged in the left-right direction on the reel 65, the player can visually recognize three symbols x three reels = nine symbols when the reel 65 is stopped. There is.

Here, the substantially straight lines (indicated by the alternate long and short dash line in FIG. 1) formed by the internal regions of the upper, middle, and lower stages of the reel 65 are referred to as line L1, line L2, and line L3, respectively.
Further, a substantially straight line (indicated by a alternate long and short dash line in FIG. 1) formed by the upper internal region of the reel 65L, the middle internal region of the reel 65C, and the lower internal region of the reel 65R is referred to as a line L4, and the reel 65L. The substantially straight line (indicated by the alternate long and short dash line in FIG. 1) formed by the lower internal region, the middle internal region of the reel 65C, and the upper internal region of the reel 65R is referred to as line L5.

In the present embodiment, only a substantially straight line is adopted as the line in the internal region, but the line is not limited to a straight line, and a bent line may be adopted. Further, a line formed including non-adjacent regions (for example, the upper stage in the reel 65L and the lower stage in the reel 65C) may be adopted. That is, any line may be adopted as long as it is a line formed by arbitrarily selecting an internal region for one symbol from each of the reels 65.

The effective line in this embodiment is only line L2. Here, the valid line is a line on which a winning determination, which will be described later, is performed on a symbol combination stopped on the line.
Specifically, when the combination of symbols corresponding to the winning is stopped and displayed on the valid line, the specified number of medals are awarded for the winning. When the combination of symbols corresponding to the re-game is stopped and displayed on the effective line, the re-game is activated in the next game. When the combination of symbols corresponding to the accessory or the accessory continuous actuating device is stopped and displayed on the effective line, the accessory or the accessory continuous actuating device is activated in the next game. The details of the symbol combinations corresponding to each combination will be described later.
Further, the effective line may be a single line as in the present embodiment, or may be a plurality of lines.

While the reel 65 is rotating (during the game), the image displayed in the effect display area 62, the sound output from the speaker 49, or the decorative LED 36 is lit in order to attract the player's attention and arouse the game's interest. Various productions consisting of reels and lights are performed.

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 at the upper right (upper left in FIG. 3) when viewed from the front of the gaming machine, and is provided at the upper left when viewed from the front of the gaming machine (in FIG. 3). The speaker port 38b is provided in front of the speaker 49b located at the upper right), and the 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, which is provided and is located at the lower right (lower left in FIG. 3) when viewed from the front of the gaming machine. A large number of cavities are provided in each speaker port 38, and the sound output from the speaker 49 can be appropriately output.

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

When the credit reaches the upper limit value during the execution of the payout process of the medals given as a result of the combination of symbols corresponding to the winnings being stopped and displayed on the valid line, the game machine 10 corresponds to the amount exceeding the upper limit value. Pay out the number of medals to be played from the hopper 93. Further, when the settlement button 32 is pressed, the gaming machine 10 pays out a number of medals corresponding to the credits at the time of pressing the checkout button 32 from the hopper 93.
Here, the payout of the medals housed in the hopper 93 to the medal discharge port 35 is realized by a payout mechanism (not shown) built in the hopper 93.
More specifically, the payout mechanism includes a disc that ejects medals by rotating, a disc motor that rotates the disc, an arm that operates following the medals paid out from the hopper 93, and a disc that pays out medals. It is composed of an arm sensor that detects the arm at the time, and by rotating the disc motor until the number of medals to be paid out is reached by the arm sensor, medals corresponding to the number of medals to be paid out are paid out to the medal ejection port 35.
If the arm sensor does not detect the arm until a predetermined time has elapsed after the arm sensor detects the medal when the number of payouts has not been reached, the rotation of the disc is stopped and the game is played. The machine 10 is in a hopper error state.

Further, in order to prevent medals from overflowing from the hopper 93, a medal auxiliary storage 95 is provided beside the hopper 93 to allow a part of the medals housed in the hopper 93 to flow down.
Further, the medal auxiliary storage 95 is provided with a storage error sensor (not shown) for detecting that the number of stored medals reaches a predetermined amount or more, and the game machine 10 is in a full tank error state due to the detection. It becomes.

<Electrical configuration and functional configuration of gaming machine 10>
Next, the electrical configuration and the functional configuration of the gaming machine 10 in the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 5 and 6. However, since the components shown in FIGS. 1 to 4 described above are also referred to, they should be referred to as appropriate. Note that FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the gaming machine 10, and FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the gaming machine 10.

The gaming machine 10 contains a main board 100 and a sub board 200 as main components. Although the main board 100 or the sub board 200 is shown in FIG. 5 as if it were a single electronic board, it does not necessarily have to be a single electronic board. That is, the main substrate 100 or the sub substrate 200 may be realized by combining a plurality of electronic substrates.

Electronic components such as the CPU 101, RAM 102, ROM 103, and random number circuit 104 are mounted on the main board 100, and the connection status with other electronic components such as sensors and boards is as shown in FIG. The main board 100 mainly realizes control related to the progress of the game by executing processing based on data and control signals exchanged between these electronic components and various sensors 40a and the like.
Here, the various sensors 40a include the above-mentioned start lever sensor 44, stop button sensor 43a, maximum bet button sensor 45a, single bet button sensor 45b, medal passing sensor 47c, reel sensor 66, and the like.

Further, electronic components such as CPU 201, RAM 202, ROM 203, random number circuit 204, and two sub-board on-board switches 205 are mounted on the sub-board 200, and the connection status with other electronic components such as sensors and boards is mounted. Is as shown in FIG. The sub-board 200 is connected to the main board 100 by one-way communication, and controls the decorative LED board 41, the voice control board 310, the effect display device 63, etc. based on the control commands transmitted from the main board 100, and mainly controls the effect display device 63 and the like. The control of the effect related to the game (including the control related to the menu screen) is realized.
The various sensors 40b include an effect button sensor 45c, a cross key button sensor 46a, a decision button sensor 46b, and the like.

Here, two sub-board on-board switches 205 mounted on the sub-board 200 will be described.
The sub-board on-board switch 205 is a switch that can be switched between ON and OFF, and is operated by hall staff, manufacturer developers, etc. when adjusting the volume of the sound output from the speaker 49. is there.
When the power is turned on with both the sub-board on-board switches 205 turned on, the state management means shifts to the maintenance state. Further, when the power is turned on with at least one of the sub-board on-board switches 205 turned off, the state management means shifts to a state other than the maintenance state.
Then, the volume control means adjusts the volume according to each state. The content of volume adjustment by the volume control means will be described later.

The main board 100 is limited in ROM capacity and RAM capacity in order to enhance security against fraudulent acts such as unauthorized modification. On the other hand, the sub-board 200 is not provided with the same restrictions.

Next, the functional configurations of the main board 100 and the sub board 200 will be described with reference to FIG. The following functional configurations and the functions of each functional configuration are examples, and may have functional configurations not described below, or each functional configuration may have functions not described below. You may be. In the figure, for convenience of explanation, electronic components other than the main board 100 and the sub board 200 such as the sensor and the board shown in FIG. 5 are also shown.

First, the functional configurations of the main board 100 are roughly classified into a game progress management unit 110 that manages the progress of the game, a main state management unit 120 that manages the state related to the game, and a main communication unit 130.
Further, the game progress management unit 110 is composed of an internal lottery unit 111, a reel control unit 112, a winning determination unit 113, a medal management unit 114, and a status display LED control unit 115, and the main status management unit 120 manages setting changes. It is composed of a unit 121, a game state management unit 122, a replay time management unit 123, a game mode management unit 124, and an error management unit 125, and the main communication unit 130 is composed of a control command transmission unit 131 and an external signal transmission unit 132. Ru.

When the game is started, the internal lottery unit 111 determines a winning combination from a plurality of types of combinations (hereinafter, may be referred to as a "winning combination") by lottery.
More specifically, the internal lottery unit 111 acquires a random number (a 2-byte random number is used in this embodiment, the range of which is 0 to 65535) updated by the random number circuit 104 when the game is started. , The lottery values of the internal lottery table (not shown) stored in the ROM 103 are sequentially added to the acquired random numbers, and the winning combination corresponding to the lottery value in which the carry occurs is determined as the winning combination. In the internal lottery unit 111, "the winning combination is determined by lottery" may be simply expressed as "the winning combination is derived".

When the game is started, the reel control unit 112 has a predetermined delay time from the start of rotation of the reel 65 in the previous game to the start of rotation of the reel 65 in the game, that is, a so-called wait time (the present embodiment). Then, after waiting for the elapse of 4.1 s), each rotation of the reel 65 is started, and then each time the stop operation is performed, the reel corresponding to the stop operation of the reel 65 is stopped, and so on. Control the rotation individually.
More specifically, the reel control unit 112 sets the reel control state (acceleration control state, constant speed control state, pull-in control state, brake control state, stop control state) to each of the reels 65 according to the progress of the game. The reel motor 68 (stepping motor) controls to acquire an excitation pattern corresponding to the currently set reel control state from the excitation pattern stored in the ROM 103 and output a pulse signal according to the acquired excitation pattern. The rotation of the reel 65 is individually controlled by performing this for each of the above.
More specifically, the reel control state is a control state in which a pulse signal is output according to an excitation pattern for accelerating to a predetermined speed after the rotation is started. The constant speed control state is a control state from the end of the acceleration control state to the stop operation, and in the control state, a pulse signal is output according to an excitation pattern for maintaining a predetermined speed. The pull-in control state is a control state in which the corresponding reel is rotated from the stop operation to the stop position. In the control state, a pulse is obtained according to an excitation pattern for maintaining a predetermined speed, as in the constant speed control state. A signal is output. The brake control state is a control state in which a pulse signal is output according to an excitation pattern for stopping the corresponding reel after reaching the stop position. The stop control state is a control state in which the corresponding reel is maintained at the current position.
The reel control state is switched in the main flow of the main board 100, which will be described later, and the pulse signal is output on the main board 100 at predetermined intervals (about 2 ms in this embodiment). It is performed in interrupt processing (not shown).
Further, when stopping each of the reels 65 (switching from the pull-in control state to the brake control state), the reel control unit 112 derives (or reads) a candidate of the symbol number to be stopped from the stop data stored in the ROM 103. ), One symbol number from the symbol number candidates in the maximum pull-in range (4 frames in this embodiment) from the position of the reel (symbol number on the reference line) at the timing when the stop operation is performed is set as the stop position. decide.
Here, the symbol number on the reference line in each of the reels 65 is corrected to the symbol number at the reference position each time the detection piece is detected by the reel sensor 66 in the timer interrupt process, and is updated by the number of subsequent pulse signal switchings. Will be done.
Further, the reel control unit 112 refers to the reel control unit 112 from the time when the symbol number on the reference line is corrected last time to the time when a predetermined time elapses (until the pulse signal is switched a predetermined number of times) in the constant speed control state. If the symbol number on the line is not corrected, it is determined that the corresponding reel has stepped out (hereinafter referred to as step-out check), the reel control state is set to the acceleration control state, and the reel is re-accelerated. Let me.

The winning determination unit 113 makes a winning determination to determine the winning of the winning combination based on the combination of the symbols stopped and displayed on the effective line in the game.
In addition, in determining the winning, in addition to the combination of the symbols stopped and displayed on the valid line, it is determined whether or not the combination of the symbols matches the winning combination derived in the game, and the winning combination is determined. It may be determined.

The medal management unit 114 manages the increase / decrease of the credit described above and controls the hopper 93 (payout mechanism) described above.

The status display LED control unit 115 controls the status display LED 25 described above.

The setting change management unit 121 performs a setting change process and a setting confirmation process.
Specifically, the setting change process is started if the setting key switch 48a is operated when the power supply from the power supply device 91 changes from the OFF state to the ON state, and the setting change switch 48b is set. Each time the game is operated, the game setting value is changed according to a certain order (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 1, 2, ... In this embodiment), and when the start lever 26 is operated. This is a process of determining the game setting value in the game as the game setting value of this time. The process also performs a process of displaying the game setting value being changed on the setting display LED 48c. Further, in the setting change process, all the information held before the power supply is turned off may be initialized, or only a part of the information may be maintained.
Further, the setting confirmation process is a process that is started by operating the setting key switch 48a while the power supply is ON, and displays the already set game setting value on the setting display LED 48c. In the following description, unless otherwise specified, the "game setting value already set" will be simply referred to as the "game setting value".
In the present embodiment, the opening of the front door 20 by the door opening sensor may be added to each of the condition for starting the setting change process and the condition for starting the setting confirmation process. By doing so, it is possible to prevent the illegal change of the game setting value and the confirmation of the illegal game setting value.

The game state management unit 122 controls to shift the game state according to the transition condition among a plurality of types of game states.
In the description of the present embodiment, switching from one state (or mode) to another state (or mode) with respect to the game state, game mode, effect mode, etc. is referred to as "transition" and "transition". , But these are generally treated as synonymous.

The replay time management unit 123 controls to shift the game state according to the shift condition among a plurality of types of replay times.

The game mode management unit 124 controls to shift the game mode according to the transition condition among the plurality of types of game modes. There are at least three types of game modes managed by the game mode management unit 124: a normal mode, a high accuracy mode, and an AT mode.
The normal mode is a game mode in which the notification of the correct pressing order is not executed.
The high-accuracy mode is a game mode in which the expectation of winning the AT mode transition lottery is higher than that of the normal mode.
The AT mode is a game mode in which notification of the correct push order corresponding to the AT combination (including the push order bell) is always executed during the stay.
In the present embodiment, the AT mode corresponds to the advantageous mode, and the advantageous mode display LED 25h is turned on during the stay.

The error management unit 125 determines whether or not to set the error state by using the detection results of the various sensors 40a and the like in addition to the determination of whether or not to set the various error states described above, and determines that the error state is set. If so, the progress of the game is stopped as necessary, and the game machine 10 is put into an error state.
In the case of an error state, preparations are made for transmission of a control command indicating the occurrence of the error state, the control command transmission unit 131 is made to transmit the control command, and the effect device (effect display area 62, decorative LED 36, speaker 49, etc.) ) May be used to notify the occurrence of the error state.

In the present embodiment, the error states determined by the error management unit 125 include, for example, a main board error due to an update abnormality of the random number circuit 104 of the main board 100, a radio wave error due to detection of an illegal radio wave, and a storage error sensor. There is a full tank error due to the detection of a medal, and a push order error when the correct answer corresponding to the AT combination is pushed in the wrong order during the AT mode described later.
Among these error states, main board errors, radio wave errors, full tank errors, etc. are treated as error states (hereinafter, simply referred to as "staff-oriented errors") that are resolved by the hall staff responding. When these staff-oriented error states occur, the occurrence of the error state is notified using the effect device.
The error state for staff is an example, and other error modes may be provided as the error state.

On the other hand, the push order error, which is one of the error states (hereinafter, simply referred to as "error states for players") that are resolved by the player responding, is maintained in a state in which the game can proceed. In addition, when an error state for these players occurs, the occurrence of the error state is notified using the effect device.
The error state for players is an example, and other error modes may be provided as the error state.
And, the error state for staff cannot be resolved unless the hall staff responds, and the error status for players can resolve the error even if the hall staff does not respond, so the error status for staff is the game. It is positioned as an error state that is more important than the error state for people.

The control command transmission unit 131 performs a process of transmitting a control command prepared for transmission to the sub-board 200.
In addition to the control command transmitted when an error occurs, the control command includes a control command transmitted according to the progress of the game, and each control command specifies the type of the control command. In addition to possible information, it has information corresponding to the type. A specific example of the control command will be described in the flow described later as necessary.
Further, in the following description, preparing for transmission of a control command and causing the control command transmission unit 131 to transmit the control command may be expressed simply as transmitting a control command.

The external signal transmission unit 132 transmits a signal (outer end signal) indicating the internal state of the game machine 10 to an external device (for example, a hall computer or a data display) outside the game machine 10.
To specifically explain the information transmitted by the outer end signal, the information includes information indicating that one game has started, transition to a special game state described later, or staying in the special game state. Information indicating that the user is present, information indicating that the advantageous mode described later has been started, or information indicating that the user is staying in the advantageous mode, information indicating that an error has occurred, and the like can be mentioned.

Next, the functional configurations of the sub-board 200 are roughly classified into a sub-communication unit 210, an effect management unit 220 that manages the effect related to the game, and a sub-state management unit 230.
Further, the sub-communication unit 210 is composed of a control command receiving unit 211, and the effect management unit 220 includes an effect mode management unit 221, an effect control unit 222, an effect display control unit 223, a voice control unit 224, and a decorative LED control. It is composed of a part 225. The details of these functional configurations are as follows.

The control command receiving unit 211 receives the control command transmitted from the main board 100, analyzes the received control command, and updates the information stored in the RAM 202 using the information included in the control command. ..

The effect mode management unit 221 controls a plurality of types of effect modes that can stay over a plurality of consecutive games based on a control command or the like transmitted from the main board 100.
The effect mode in the present embodiment transitions mainly based on the game mode controlled by the game mode management unit 124, and the game mode during the stay and the effect mode correspond in principle. As a general rule, the transition of the effect mode often involves a change in the background display displayed in the effect display area 62.

In the effect mode controlled by the effect mode management unit 221, a plurality of effect modes may be associated with one game mode, or one effect mode may be associated with a plurality of game modes.
However, it is preferable to distinguish between the effect mode corresponding to the normal mode and the effect mode corresponding to the advantageous mode (AT mode). In other words, the plurality of types of effect modes controlled by the effect mode management unit 221 can be transferred to the first effect mode, which can be transferred in the advantageous mode and cannot be transferred in the normal mode, and can not be transferred in the advantageous mode. It is preferable to include a second effect mode that can be shifted in the normal mode. This is because by clearly indicating to the player the distinction between the normal mode and the advantageous mode, the difference in the degree of advantage becomes clear and the game becomes sharp.

The effect control unit 222 is applied to the effect device (effect display area 62, decorative LED 36, speaker 49, etc.) based on the effect mode controlled by the effect mode management unit 221 in addition to the control command transmitted from the main board 100. Performs the process of determining the content of the effect to be performed.

When there is an effect to be performed by the effect display device 63, the effect display control unit 223 reads the device data corresponding to the effect from the ROM 203 and causes the effect display device 63 to perform the effect using the device data.

The voice control unit 224 transmits a voice control command to the voice control board 310 when there is an effect to be performed by the speaker 49. In addition, the volume level of the sound output from the sound output means is also adjusted. The detailed adjustment contents of the volume stage will be described later.

When the decorative LED control unit 225 has an effect to be performed on the decorative LED board 41, the decorative LED control unit 225 reads the device data corresponding to the effect from the ROM 203 and causes the decorative LED board 41 to perform the effect using the device data.

The sub-state management unit 230 determines the state of the sub-board onboard switch 205 when the power is turned on, and shifts the state of the gaming machine to the maintenance state or another state.
When the power is turned on, the sub-state management unit 230 shifts to the maintenance state when both of the sub-board on-board switches 205 are in the ON state, and when at least one of the sub-board on-board switches 205 is in the OFF state, the other sub-state management unit 230 shifts to the maintenance state. Move to the state.
Further, in the maintenance state, when at least one of the sub-board onboard switches 205 is turned off to satisfy the second transition condition and the transition to the other state is performed, at least power interruption and power recovery must be performed. To. As a result, when the maintenance work is illegally shifted, it is difficult to return to another state, so that the fraud can be easily found.
Further, the hall staff and the development staff of the manufacturer can set the maximum / standard volume by operating the menu selection button 24, but even if the menu selection button 24 is operated in the playable state, the maintenance state is not entered. That is, it is managed so that the first transition condition is not satisfied. As a result, it is possible to prevent the player from shifting to the maintenance state.

Next, the voice control board 310 will be described.
The voice control board 310 includes a CPU 311 that performs various arithmetic processes related to voice production based on voice control commands from the sub board 200, a ROM 312 that stores a voice control program, voice data, and the like, and a work area and buffer that serve as a temporary storage area. It is equipped with a RAM 313 that functions as a memory and an I / O port 314 that inputs and outputs signals between peripheral boards and devices, and the CPU 311 performs main control related to voice production according to a control program stored in the ROM 312. It is configured to run. Therefore, the voice control board 310 reads the voice data stored in the ROM 312 in response to the voice control command received from the sub board 200, synthesizes the read voice data, and amplifies the final voice data after the synthesis. It is possible to transmit to the speaker 49 via the above and make the speaker 49 output sound.

More specifically, the RAM 313 contains a storage area corresponding to each of a plurality of audio reproduction channels (in the present embodiment, a total of 32 audio reproduction channels CH1 to CH32), and audio data after synthesis (described later). A storage area for storing the unit voice data) is provided. The storage area corresponding to each audio reproduction channel includes audio data read from ROM 312, data for specifying the volume of the audio reproduction channel (hereinafter referred to as "volume specific data"), and the number of times of reproduction of the audio reproduction channel (loop reproduction). Data that identifies (including) (hereinafter referred to as "playback count specifying data") and data that specifies the playback state (playing, pause, playback stop) of the audio playback channel (hereinafter, "playback state specifying data"). It is composed of a storage area for storing). The volume in the present embodiment can be set in a range of 9 levels from volume 1 to volume 9, and therefore the volume output from the speaker 49 increases in this order. Further, each data corresponding to each audio reproduction channel stored in the RAM 313 is configured to be readable by the sub-board 200 as needed.

Here, the audio data stored in the ROM 312 includes a security sound as the first audio data and a game sound as the second audio data, and the first audio data is stored in a specific audio reproduction channel. Stored in the corresponding storage area, the second audio data is stored in an audio reproduction channel different from the specific audio channel.
In addition, the "security sound" corresponds to a sound that mainly notifies that the hall staff is operating, such as a notification sound that indicates that the door is open and a sound that indicates that the setting is being changed. ..
As described above, the "game sound" is a sound used for a game, and corresponds to a sound effect, BGM, etc. that are produced according to the fluctuation of the design, and the "security sound" is a door that opens. This corresponds mainly to the sound that notifies that the hall staff is operating, such as the notification sound that indicates that the setting has been changed and the sound that indicates that the setting has been changed.

The above-mentioned voice control command is composed of voice control data for each voice playback channel, and each voice control data indicates data for specifying the presence or absence of various data corresponding to the voice playback channel and voice data to be played back (specification). Data (hereinafter referred to as "voice instruction data"), data instructing the volume of the voice data (hereinafter referred to as "volume instruction data"), data instructing the number of times of reproduction of the voice data (hereinafter, "" It is composed of data that indicates the playback state) and data that indicates the playback count (referred to as "playback count instruction data"). Then, when the CPU 311 receives the voice control command, the CPU 311 confirms the presence or absence of the voice control data for each voice reproduction channel, and if there is the voice control data, the voice control data according to the voice control data. Update various data of the audio playback channel corresponding to.
The audio data is data in which unit audio data divided every frame (24 milliseconds in the present embodiment) is continuously arranged, and the CPU 311 is the reproduction state of each audio reproduction channel for each frame. While referring to the specific data, the unit audio data at the current playback position of the audio reproduction channel identified as being reproduced by the reproduction state specific data is synthesized according to the volume specific data corresponding to the audio reproduction channel, and after synthesis. The unit voice data of is stored in the corresponding storage area.
Further, when the received voice control command includes voice control data including playback state instruction data for instructing playback stop, the CPU 311 deletes various data of the voice playback channel corresponding to the voice control data. At the same time, data indicating stop playback is set in the playback state specific data of the audio reproduction channel, and the reproduction of the audio related to the audio reproduction channel is stopped.

The sound output in the present embodiment means that the sound is output from the speaker 49 and can be actually recognized by the player or the like by hearing. On the other hand, audio reproduction means that various data (audio data, volume specific data, reproduction count specific data, and reproduction state specific data) are stored in the storage area corresponding to the audio reproduction channel related to the audio. It does not matter whether or not the voice is actually output.

Further, as described above, the sub-board 200 is configured to be able to generate a volume adjustment command in addition to the voice control command and to transmit the volume adjustment command to the voice control board 310. This volume adjustment command is composed of data for specifying the presence / absence of volume instruction data corresponding to the voice reproduction channel and volume instruction data for each voice reproduction channel. Then, when the CPU 311 receives the volume adjustment command, the CPU 311 confirms the presence or absence of the volume instruction data for each voice reproduction channel, and if there is the volume instruction data, the voice reproduction channel according to the volume instruction data. Update the volume specific data of.

As described above, in the present embodiment, the sub-board 200 can control the sound output to the speaker 49 and control the volume of each sound (voice reproduction channel) to be reproduced via the voice control board 310. it can.
The method for controlling the sound and volume to be output from the speaker 49 is not limited to the method of the present embodiment, and any method may be adopted. Further, the function of the voice control board 310 may be provided on the sub board 200.

<Volume level setting screen>
Next, the volume step setting screen displayed in the effect display area 62 will be described with reference to FIGS. 7 and 8.
FIG. 7 is a screen used by hall staff, maker developers, and the like when setting the volume level.
Hall staff, maker developers, etc. can set the time, brightness, etc. in addition to the volume level during the setting confirmation for confirming the game setting value. During the setting confirmation, the staff menu screen is displayed (not shown), and when the maximum / standard volume setting is selected by operating the menu selection button 24 for the displayed staff menu, the effect display area 62 is shown in FIG. 7. The maximum / standard volume settings shown in are displayed. When the various setting screens used by hall staff, manufacturer developers, etc., which can be migrated from the staff menu screen, including the maximum / standard volume setting screen, and the staff menu screen are displayed. Is notified that the door is open or that the setting is being confirmed.

FIG. 7 (1) is a screen image displayed when the maximum volume is set on the maximum / standard volume setting screen displayed in the effect display area 62, and FIG. 7 (2) is displayed in the effect display area 62. This is the screen image displayed when setting the standard volume on the maximum / standard volume setting screen.
Here, the "maximum volume" refers to the stage (range) at which the player can change the volume, and the "standard volume" refers to the game when the power is turned on and for a certain period of time as described later. It refers to the stage (range) that is set when it is not done.
As shown in FIGS. 7 (1) and 7 (2), the maximum volume and the standard volume can be set in 9 steps. The stage that can be set is not limited to 9 stages, and may be other stages.

When the staff menu screen is displayed and the maximum / standard volume setting is selected by the menu selection button 24, the maximum / standard volume setting screen of FIG. 7 (1) is displayed in the effect display area 62, and then the cross key button 24a is displayed. You can change the volume level by operating. Each time the button on the right side of the cross key button 24a is pressed, the volume level moves in the MAX direction by one step, and each time the button on the left side of the cross key button 24a is pressed once, the volume level moves by one step. Move in the MIN direction. Here, as is clear from a comparison between FIGS. 7 (1) and 7 (2), in FIG. 7 (1), the maximum volume setting area 62B has a wider area than the standard volume setting area 62C, and FIG. While each character and line is thick, in FIG. 7 (2), the standard volume setting area 62C has a wider area than the maximum volume setting area 62B, and each character and line is thick. This makes it possible for hall staff, manufacturer developers, etc. to grasp whether the volume for which the setting is changed is the maximum volume or the standard volume.
Then, when the enter button 24b is pressed while the maximum / standard volume setting screen of FIG. 7 (1) is displayed in the effect display area 62, the maximum / standard volume setting of FIG. 7 (2) is set in the effect display area 62. When the screen is displayed and the enter button 24b is pressed while the maximum / standard volume setting screen of FIG. 7 (2) is displayed in the effect display area 62, the staff menu is displayed in the effect display area 62.

Here, the setting of the maximum volume will be described.
When the screen shown in FIG. 7 (1) is displayed in the effect display area 62, the "user volume", which is the volume set by the player, is set to the "standard volume", and the door opening notification or setting confirmation is performed. The volume of the security sound used for medium notification is also set to the user volume.
If the maximum volume becomes lower than the standard volume by lowering the maximum volume, the "standard volume" is set to the "maximum volume".
Then, when the enter button 24b is pressed, the maximum volume, the standard volume, and the user volume are set with the selected values. If the maximum / standard volume setting screen is closed without pressing the enter button 24b, the maximum volume and the standard volume remain at the values before the change and are not updated.

Next, the setting of the standard volume will be described.
The standard volume can be changed only within the range below the maximum volume. Further, when the volume of the standard volume is changed, the volume of the security sound used for the door opening notification or the notification during setting confirmation is also set to the changed standard volume. When the cross key button 24a is pressed while the screen shown in FIG. 7 (2) is displayed in the effect display area 62, the value of the standard volume selected when the cross key button 24a is pressed is set. If the maximum / standard volume setting screen is closed without pressing the enter button 24b, the maximum volume and the standard volume remain at the values before the change and are not updated.

FIG. 8 is a volume adjustment screen displayed in the effect display area 62 when the player adjusts the volume. The player can browse the user menu screen by operating the menu selection button 24. For example, when the decision button 24b is pressed in the standby state, a list of user menus (not shown) is displayed in the effect display area 62. Then, when the player operates the cross key button 24a, moves the cursor to the position indicating the volume adjustment, and presses the decision button 24b, the volume adjustment screen 62E shown in FIG. 8 is displayed in the effect display area 62. In addition to adjusting the volume, the menu list also allows you to check the reel arrangement and payout table.

The volume adjustment screen in which the player adjusts the volume displayed in the effect display area 62 will be described.
As shown in FIG. 8, the volume can be adjusted in 9 steps. Then, a gauge is displayed for the player to grasp the current volume stage and to specify the volume stage. In the present embodiment, the gauge is divided into nine, and the white portion is changed according to the set volume level. FIG. 8 shows that the volume level 5 is adjusted because the five parts are white areas. Then, when the player operates the cross key button 24a twice to the right, the volume stage 7 is adjusted, and the gauge of the volume adjustment screen 62E changes to a white state for seven gauges. On the other hand, when the player operates the cross key button 24a once to the left in the state of the volume adjustment screen 62E of FIG. 8, the volume stage 4 is adjusted, and four gauges of the volume adjustment screen 62E are outlined. Change.
Further, in order to make it easier for the player to grasp the maximum volume stage and the standard volume stage, a downward triangle is provided near the volume stage 9 which is the maximum volume stage, and an upward triangle is provided near the volume stage 7 which is the standard volume stage. it's shown.

Here, the initial value of the user volume will be described.
As the initial value of the user volume, the standard volume value set on the standard volume setting screen shown in FIG. 7 (2) is set. Then, even when the player changes the volume using the volume adjustment screen of FIG. 8, the value is returned to the standard volume value set on the standard volume setting screen shown in FIG. 7 (2) under the following conditions.
B) When the power is turned on b) When 10 minutes have passed between the end of one game (after receiving the game status command from the main) and the insertion of medals. However, if there is an operation performed by the hall staff such as during door opening, error, setting change, setting confirmation, and test mode, the measurement for 10 minutes is interrupted and the operation is completed. Measurement is restarted from that point.
C) When the staff menu screen is displayed and the maximum / standard volume is selected by the menu selection button 24 and then the enter button 24b is pressed. As shown in FIG. 8, the volume adjustment screen 62E shows "a certain period of time." , If the game is not played, the standard volume will be restored. ”By displaying, the player is notified that the standard volume value will be restored when the above condition (b) is satisfied.

Next, the set values of the maximum volume and the standard volume will be described with reference to FIG.
As described above, the "game sound" is a sound used for a game, and corresponds to a sound effect, BGM, etc. that are produced according to the fluctuation of the design, and the "security sound" is a door that opens. This corresponds mainly to the sound that notifies that the hall staff is operating, such as the notification sound that indicates that the setting has been changed and the sound that indicates that the setting has been changed.
The “OFF” corresponds to the case where at least one of the two sub-board on-board switches 205 mounted on the sub-board 200 is in the OFF state.
The “ON” corresponds to the case where both of the two sub-board on-board switches 205 mounted on the sub-board 200 are in the ON state.
The "volume stage" is a volume stage in which the hall staff, the developer of the manufacturer, etc. can set the maximum volume and the standard volume using the maximum / standard volume setting screen shown in FIG. 7 (in the case of this embodiment, from 1). 9 steps of 9) corresponds.
The value described at the intersection of the volume stage, the state of the sub-board onboard switch 205, and the type of sound indicates the volume volume. For example, when the volume stage 1 and the state of the sub-board onboard switch 205 are OFF and the volume volume of the game sound is "1", and when the volume stage 5 and the state of the sub-board on-board switch 205 are ON and The volume volume of the game sound / security sound is "9". As shown in FIG. 9, when the state of the sub-board onboard switch 205 is ON, the game sound and the security sound are set to the same volume volume, but they do not have to be the same, but the game. It is preferable that the difference between the sound and the security sound is small.

Here, the setting contents of the volume volume setting value will be described.
1) When the same volume level is set, the volume of the sound output from the sound output means in the ON state (maintenance state) is output from the sound output means in the OFF state (other state). Make it quieter than the volume of the sound. By reducing the volume of sound output during maintenance of the gaming machine, it is possible to reduce the auditory burden in the maintenance work and facilitate the maintenance work.
2) The difference between the game sound and the security sound in the OFF state (other state) differs depending on the volume stage, and as the volume stage becomes higher, the difference between the game sound and the security sound becomes smaller. Since the OFF state (other state) is a state other than the maintenance state, the game is mainly performed, and the player can change the volume. Even if the volume is lowered according to the player's preference, the volume required as a security sound can be output, or even if the volume is increased, an unnecessary volume is not output as a security sound.
3) When the ON state (maintenance state) and the OFF state (other states) are in the same volume stage, the security sound is read and output in the ON state (maintenance state), and the volume and game sound are read and output. The difference in volume is smaller than or no difference between the volume at which the security sound is read out and output in other states and the volume at which the game sound is read out and output. Since the ON state (maintenance state) is operated by the hall staff, the developer of the manufacturer, etc., there is no need to provide a difference in volume between the game sound and the security sound.
4) The volume of a specific voice (for example, game sound) when the first volume stage (for example, volume stage 5) is set in the ON state (maintenance state) is the second in the OFF state (other state). It is made quieter than the volume of a particular voice when a second volume step (eg, volume step 4) corresponding to a volume lower than one volume step is set. Since the ON state (maintenance state) is operated by the hall staff, the developer of the manufacturer, etc., it is sufficient if the volume required for the work is output, so the second volume stage in the OFF state (other state). It is possible to reduce the auditory burden in maintenance work when the volume is lower than the specific sound volume for which is set.
5) In the ON state (maintenance state) and the OFF state (other states), the volume stage corresponding to the maximum volume (for example, volume stage 9) to the volume stage corresponding to the minimum volume (for example, volume stage 1). ), Set the volume of the game sound and the volume of the security sound to decrease. In addition, the volume when the volume level corresponding to the maximum volume (for example, 50) is set with respect to the volume when the volume level corresponding to the minimum volume is set for the sound for producing the security sound (for example). , 128), the volume step corresponding to the maximum volume relative to the volume (for example, 1) is set when the volume level corresponding to the minimum volume is set for the sound that produces the game sound. Set it smaller than the ratio of the volume (for example, 127) in the case. By setting at such a ratio, it is possible to easily recognize the security sound. It should be noted that the tendency to decrease does not necessarily mean that the volumes of adjacent volume stages (for example, volume stage 4 and volume stage 5) do not necessarily have different volumes, and the same volume may be set for the volumes of adjacent volume stages. It suffices if it tends to decline as a whole.
6) The plurality of volume stages include a first volume stage (for example, volume stage 4), a second volume stage corresponding to a volume larger than the first volume stage (for example, volume stage 5), and a second volume stage. There is a third volume stage (for example, volume stage 6) corresponding to a volume larger than the volume stage of, and the sound for producing the security sound is the volume when the first volume is set (for example, 90). The difference in volume (for example, 108) when the second volume step is set with respect to) is the volume when the third volume step is set with respect to the volume when the second volume step is set. It is set to be larger than the difference of (for example, 113). By setting in this way, the volume can be lowered more steeply by selecting the first volume stage. The difference in volume when the third volume stage is set with respect to the volume when the second volume stage is set is 0, and the volume when the second volume stage is set. And the volume when the third volume stage is set may be the same.
7) A third volume stage (for example, volume stage 6) is set with respect to the volume (for example, 60) when the second volume stage (for example, volume stage 5) is set for the sound for outputting the game sound. When the difference in volume (for example, 80) is set, the third volume step is set with respect to the volume (for example, 108) when the second volume step is set for the sound that produces the security sound. Set it larger than the difference in volume (for example, 113) when there is. By setting in this way, the volume of the security sound is more easily maintained, and it is set so that it is not easily affected by the volume adjustment.

Next, the security sound and the confirmation sound output when the volume setting operation is performed by operating the menu selection button 24 will be described with reference to FIG.

FIG. 10 (1) shows a security sound when a staff menu screen that can be viewed by a hall staff, a developer of a manufacturer, or the like by operating the menu selection button 24 is displayed.
As shown in FIG. 10 (1), a security sound is emitted during the first period when the staff menu screen is displayed. This security sound is output at the volume level of the standard volume that was set when the staff menu screen was displayed.
Then, the hall staff or the like operates the cross key button 24a to raise the volume by one step, so that the volume of the security sound being output is raised.
Although FIG. 10 (1) shows an example in which the hall staff or the like raises the volume, the volume of the security sound emitted can be lowered by performing an operation of lowering the volume level. In addition, the volume of the security sound output is not changed unless the hall staff or the like performs an operation to change the volume level.

FIG. 10 (2) shows a confirmation sound when the user menu screen that can be viewed by the player by operating the menu selection button 24 is displayed.
As shown in FIG. 10 (2), during the second period in which the user menu screen is displayed, a confirmation sound is output when the volume level is changed based on the operation of the cross key button 24a by the user. To.
Here, after accepting the operation of the player's cross key button 24a, the operation of the player's cross key button 24a is invalidated for a predetermined period. After the operation of the cross key button 24a of the player, the confirmation sound is output for a certain period of time at the maximum volume of the volume at the stage specified by the operation, and then the volume of the confirmation sound becomes 0. Further, as shown in FIG. 10 (2), the period during which the confirmation sound is output at the maximum volume is set to be shorter than the predetermined period during which the operation is invalid.
With this configuration, the player can surely confirm the volume to be adjusted by the cross key button 24a.
Note that FIG. 10 (2) shows an example in which the player raises the volume, but if the operation of lowering the volume level is performed, the volume of the confirmation sound to be output is lowered. Further, regardless of whether or not the confirmation sound is output, the sound effect that is output when the user menu screen is displayed, for example, BGM, may be output, and is accompanied by the operation of the cross key button 24a. , BGM may not be output.

The setting contents when the hall staff etc. set the maximum / standard volume level are organized together with FIGS. 7 and 9.
As described above, the game machine 10 has a sound output means for outputting sound (for example, a speaker 49 and a speaker port 38 correspond to each other) and a sound output control means for controlling the sound output means (for example, a sub-board 200). The volume of the sound output from the sound output means is adjusted by setting the volume stage of one of a plurality of predetermined volume stages with the provided voice control unit 224 and the voice control board 310). Possible volume control means (for example, the voice control unit 224 provided on the sub-board 200 and the voice control board 310 correspond to each other) and the first transition condition (for example, two sub-boards on-board provided on the sub-board 200). When the switch 205 is in the ON state when the power is turned on, it is in the maintenance state (for example, the setting is being changed or the error is being cleared, etc.), and the game machine installed in the hall and used for business is being prepared. At least one of the two sub-board on-board switches 205 provided on the sub-board 200 is set to the second transition condition (for example, during the development test by the manufacturer before being installed in the hall). It is provided with a state management means (for example, a sub state management unit 230 provided on the sub board 200) that shifts to another state (a state other than the maintenance state is equivalent) when the OFF state is established when the power is turned on. ..
Then, when the same volume level is set (for example, the case of the volume step 5 shown in FIG. 9 corresponds), the volume of the sound output from the sound output means in the maintenance state (for example, shown in FIG. 9). The volume 9 is equivalent) is smaller than the volume of the sound output from the sound producing means in other states (for example, the volume 60 or the volume 108 shown in FIG. 9 is equivalent).
Further, the first transition condition is satisfied based on the power-on.
By doing so, it is possible to reduce the auditory burden in the maintenance work and facilitate the maintenance work by reducing the volume of the sound output in the maintenance state of the gaming machine. Further, by making it impossible for the player to easily satisfy the transition condition to the maintenance state, it is possible to maintain the volume of the sound necessary for hall management such as error notification.

As described above, the sound output control means includes a storage means (for example, RAM 313 corresponds to) that stores the voice data read by the sound output control means for each storage area corresponding to each of the plurality of voice channels.
Further, the audio data stored in the storage means includes the first audio data (for example, equivalent to a security sound) stored in the storage area corresponding to the specific audio channel, and the specific audio reproduction channel. A second audio data (eg, equivalent to a game sound) stored in a storage area corresponding to a different audio reproduction channel is included.
Then, when the same volume level is set (for example, when the volume level 5 shown in FIG. 9 is set), the sound output control means reads out the first sound data and becomes the sound output means. The volume of the sound to be output is equal to or higher than the volume of the sound to be output by the sound output means by reading the second audio data (for example, in other states, the first audio data). The volume of is the volume 108 shown in FIG. 9, the volume of the second audio data is the volume 60 shown in FIG. 9, and in the maintenance state, both the volume of the first audio data and the volume of the second audio data are shown in FIG. When the indicated volume 9 is equivalent) and the same volume level is set (for example, when the volume level 5 shown in FIG. 9 is set), the sound output control means is the first in the maintenance state. The volume of the sound (for example, the volume 9 shown in FIG. 9 is equivalent) and the sound output control means read out the second sound data and make the sound output means output the sound. In another state, the difference in sound volume (for example, the volume 9 shown in FIG. 9 corresponds to) (for example, the difference corresponds to 0) is read by the sound output control means and output to the sound output means. The volume of the sound to be sounded (for example, the volume 108 shown in FIG. 9 is equivalent) and the volume of the sound that the sound output control means reads out the second sound data and outputs the sound to the sound output means (for example, the volume shown in FIG. 9). It is smaller than the difference (for example, the difference is equivalent to 48).
By doing so, the effect of reducing the auditory burden in the maintenance work can be strengthened.

As described above, when the same volume level is set (for example, when the volume level 5 shown in FIG. 9 is set), the sound output control means reads out the first voice data in the maintenance state. The volume of the sound to be output to the voice sound output means (for example, the volume 9 shown in FIG. 9 is equivalent) is such that the sound output control means reads out the second voice data and causes the voice sound output means to output the sound in the maintenance state. It becomes the same as the volume of voice (for example, the volume 9 shown in FIG. 9 corresponds).
By doing so, the effect of reducing the auditory burden in the maintenance work can be strengthened, and the maintenance state is operated by the hall staff or the developer of the manufacturer, so the difference in volume between the game sound and the security sound. Since it is not necessary to provide the control, the control can be simplified.

As described above, when the second transition condition (for example, it is equivalent to turning off at least one of the sub-board onboard switches 205) is satisfied in the maintenance state and the transition to the other state is performed, at least the power failure is restored. Make sure that electricity needs to be done.
As a result, when the maintenance work is illegally shifted, it is difficult to return to another state, so that the fraud can be easily found.

<Main flow related to game progress>
Next, the main flow related to the game progress in the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 11 to 13. However, since the components described above are also mentioned, please refer to them as appropriate. In particular, in the following description, the function shown in FIG. 6 may be mentioned as the subject performing the processing, but the processing is not always realized only by the subject.

11 to 13 are flowcharts showing the main flow of the main board 100 related to the progress of the game in the present embodiment.
The main board 100 plays one game while performing a series of processes from steps S102 to S145 shown in FIGS. 11 to 13, and the game can be repeated by repeating the series of processes.
Each process shown in FIGS. 11 to 13 is a specific example, and a process other than the processes described here may be performed by the main substrate 100.

First, steps S101 to S119 will be described with reference to FIG.

In the first step S101, the initial setting process is performed.
The initial setting process is performed when the power supply is started, and once it is performed, it is not performed until the power supply is cut off and the power supply is started again.
More specifically, in the process, if the setting key switch 48a is operated, the backup information held when the power supply is turned off is discarded, and the above-mentioned setting change process is performed. After that, the process proceeds to step S103. On the other hand, if the setting key switch 48a is not in the operated state, there is no abnormality in the backup information held when the power supply is turned off in the process (in the present embodiment, the checksum value is normal). The process of returning to the state immediately before the power supply is turned off is performed based on the backup information, and then the process proceeds to step S103. If there is an abnormality in the backup information, the game cannot be returned to the game (RAM error state), and the above-mentioned setting change process is awaited.

In the first step S103, a game start process required in advance for starting the next game is performed.
In the game start process, various information related to the previous game is saved, and information indicating the stop position of each of the reels 65 stopped in the previous game and the combination of symbols stopped on the effective line is cleared. Or, processing such as acquiring a game setting value is performed.

In step S105, the medal management unit 114 performs a medal acceptance start process, which is a preparatory process for setting the number of bets for the next game.
In the medal acceptance start process, a process of operating the medal blocker 47b, a process of setting the same number of bets as the number of bets set in the previous game when the replay combination was won in the previous game, and the like are performed.

In step S107, the medal management unit 114 determines whether or not the re-game is operating, and if the condition is satisfied, the process proceeds to step S111, and if not, the process proceeds to step S109.

In step S109, the medal management unit 114 performs a medal management process, which is a process related to medals performed based on the detected operation or the state of the gaming machine 10.
In the medal management process, when it is detected that a medal has been inserted from the medal insertion slot 31, it is checked that the inserted medal has normally passed through the insertion medal passage 51, or a medal that has passed normally is inserted. The process of setting the number of bets for the next game, the process of adding the medals that passed normally when the number of bets for the next game has already reached the maximum number, and the process for adding the number of bets for the next game to the number of credits, and the number of bets for the next game have already been reached. The process of stopping the operation of the medal blocker 47b when the maximum number is reached and the number of credits has reached the upper limit, and the number of medals corresponding to the pressed bet button 23 when the pressing of the bet button 23 is detected are credited. A process of subtracting from the number to set the number of bets, a process of paying out the medal (credit or the number of bets) that can be settled when the press of the checkout button 32 is detected, and the like are performed.
In the present embodiment, when the re-game is operating, the medal blocker 47b is not operated and credits are not added, but even when the re-game is operating, the medal blocker 47b is operated and the medal blocker 47b is normally passed. The medals may be added to the number of credits.

In step S111, a reel rotation start check, which is a check of whether or not the game start condition is satisfied, is performed.
In the reel rotation start check, for example, whether or not the number of bets is the maximum is checked on the premise that the operation of the start lever is detected.

In step S113, it is determined in the reel rotation start check whether or not the game start condition is satisfied, and if the condition is satisfied, the process proceeds to step S115, and if not, the process returns to step S107.

In step S115, the internal lottery unit 111 performs an internal lottery using the internal lottery table.

In step S117, the internal lottery unit 111 sets a winning combination flag that stores the winning combination derived in step S115 or the winning combination “loss” in the case of non-winning in the corresponding area of the RAM 102.

In step S119, the game mode management unit 124 performs the game mode management process at the start of the game.
In the game start mode management process when staying in the normal mode, the above-mentioned high-accuracy mode transition lottery is performed. Further, in the game start mode management process when staying in the high accuracy mode, the above-mentioned AT mode transition lottery is performed.
Further, in the game start mode management process when staying in the advantageous mode (AT mode), in addition to the process of subtracting 1 from each of the number of initialization games and the number of advantageous mode games, the instruction display LED 25d is pressed as the correct answer. A process of controlling the lighting mode in which the order can be specified is also performed.
In addition, in the game mode management process at the start of the game, a process of transmitting an internal winning command is also performed regardless of the game mode in which the player is staying, and the control command includes the derived winning combination, the game state during the stay, and so on. In addition to information that can identify the replay time during the stay and the game mode during the stay, information that can identify the result of the advantageous mode transition lottery (when staying in the normal mode), the variables updated in the advantageous mode and the order of pressing the correct answer (When staying in advantageous mode) is included at least.

From here, steps S121 to S135 will be described with reference to FIG.

In the first step S121, it is determined whether or not the wait time has elapsed, and if the condition is satisfied, the process proceeds to step S123, and if not, the determination returns to step S121.

In step S123, the reel control unit 112 changes the reel control state of each of the reels 65 (when the process is performed due to the occurrence of step-out, the reels that are rotating (set to the constant speed control state)). It is set to the acceleration control state, and the rotation of the reel set to the acceleration control state is started.
As described above, when returning to the determination in step S121, the rotation of the reel 65 is not started, so that the reel control unit 112 waits for the elapse of the wait time and starts the rotation of the reel 65.

In step S125, the reel control unit 112 outputs a pulse signal according to an excitation pattern corresponding to the acceleration control state when the rotation speeds of all the reels set in the acceleration control state of the reels 65 have reached a predetermined speed. Is completed), and if the condition is satisfied, the process proceeds to step S127, and if not, the process returns to step S125.
In the determination, when the rotation speed of the reel set in the acceleration control state reaches a predetermined speed, the acceleration control state is sequentially switched to the constant speed control state. Further, in the determination, after all of the reels are switched to the constant speed control state, the reel sensors 66 are made to stand by without proceeding to step S127 until the sensors corresponding to the reels detect all the detection pieces. After the standby, all the stop buttons corresponding to the reels are enabled, and the process proceeds to step S127.

In step S127, the reel control unit 112 performs the above-mentioned step-out check on the reels of the reels 65 that are set to the constant speed control state.

In step S129, the reel control unit 112 determines whether or not step-out has occurred in the step-out check, and if the condition is satisfied, the process returns to step S123, and if not, the process proceeds to step S129.
As described above, when it is determined that the step-out has occurred in the rotating reel among the reels 65, the processing of step S123 (reel restart) is performed again for the rotating reel.

In step S131, the reel control unit 112 determines whether or not there is an operation (stop operation) for the activated stop button, and if the condition is satisfied, the process proceeds to step S135, and if not, the process proceeds to step S135. The process proceeds to step S139.

In step S133, the reel control unit 112 performs the reel stop process.
The reel stop process invalidates the stop buttons other than the stop button on which the stop operation was performed, and as described above, switches the reel corresponding to the stop button on which the stop operation has been performed from the constant speed control state to the pull-in control state, and sets the stop position. This is a process of deriving the symbol number to be obtained, and at the timing when the symbol position of the reel advances to the derived stop position, the reel is pulled in and switched from the brake control state to the brake control state to stop the reel. After the output of the pulse signal is completed according to the excitation pattern corresponding to the brake control state, the state is switched to the stop control state and the reel is held at the stop position.
Further, in the reel stop processing, a processing in which a stop command is transmitted to the sub-communication unit 210 via the control command transmission unit 131 is also performed, and the control command includes the types of the stopped reels (reel 65L, reel 65C, etc.). At least information that can identify (any of the reels 65R) and the stopped position (symbol number) of the reel is included.

In step S135, the reel control unit 112 determines whether or not all of the reels 65 are stopped, and if the condition is satisfied, the process proceeds to step S137, and if not, the process returns to step S127. In this way, when all of the reels 65 are not stopped, the processes of steps S127 to S135 are repeated.

From here, steps S137 to S145 will be described with reference to FIG.

In the first step S137, the winning determination unit 113 performs the above-mentioned winning determination, and determines the winning combination.

In step S139, the game state management unit 122 and the replay time management unit 123 perform a state transition process for shifting the game state and the replay time based on a predetermined transition condition.

In step S141, the game mode management unit 124 performs the game mode management process at the end of the game.
In the game mode management process at the end of the game when staying in the normal mode, if the lottery for shifting to the advantageous mode in the game mode management process at the start of the game (step S119 in FIG. 11) is won, the mode shifts to the advantageous mode. The process of controlling the advantageous mode display LED 25h to a lighting state is performed.
On the other hand, in the game mode management process at the end of the game when staying in the advantageous mode, it is determined whether or not the number of initialized games is 0 and whether or not the number of advantageous mode games is 0. However, when any of the conditions is satisfied, the process shifts to the normal mode and the advantageous mode display LED 25h is controlled to be turned off.
Further, in the game mode management process at the end of the game, the state update command also transmits a control command regardless of the mode in which the player is staying, and the control command includes a winning combination and the updated game. It contains at least information that can identify the status, updated replay time, and updated game mode.

In step S143, the winning determination unit 113 awards a number of medals corresponding to the winning combination.
In principle, the medals given in step S143 are stored and stored in the number of credits. However, when the number of credits reaches the upper limit, the medal management unit 114 controls the payout mechanism (not shown) built in the hopper 93 to issue medals corresponding to the number exceeding the number of credits from the hopper 93. Pay out to the medal outlet 35.

In step S145, the error management unit 125 performs an overflow check for checking the storage error sensor provided in the medal auxiliary storage 95, and when the storage error sensor detects a medal, a full tank error state is displayed. Set, stop the progress of the game, and send an error control command indicating the error status.

<Other variants>
Modifications not described in the above description are listed below.

In this embodiment, a method of setting the maximum and standard volume of a rotating drum type game machine has been described, but a so-called pachinko game in which a symbol change is started with a winning of a starting port and a big hit game is performed according to a stopped symbol. It may be applied to the machine.
In this case, the error state for staff corresponds to a full tank error that is an error state when the full tank detection sensor detects that the tank is full, or a magnetic detection error that is an error state when a predetermined magnetism is detected. To do. Further, the error state for the player corresponds to a right-handed error determined according to the number of times a predetermined gate sensor provided on the game board is passed in the predetermined gaming state.
In addition, as the timing to return to the initial value of the user volume, when 10 minutes have passed between the end of one game and the new start prize, or the signal of the touch sensor provided on the operation handle is detected from the end of one game. It corresponds to the case where 10 minutes have passed before.

The above-described embodiment is not limited to the above-mentioned description, and various modifications, improvements, and the like are possible.

<Additional notes>
This embodiment includes the following technical ideas.
(1) The sound is produced by setting a sound output means for producing a sound, a sound output control means for controlling the sound output means, and one of a plurality of predetermined volume stages. A volume control means that can adjust the volume of the sound output from the sound output means, and a state that shifts to the maintenance state when the first transition condition is satisfied, and shifts to another state when the second transition condition is satisfied. When the same volume level is set with the management means, the volume of the sound output from the sound output means in the maintenance state is output from the sound output means in the other state. A gaming machine characterized in that it is smaller than the volume of sound to be sounded and the first transition condition is satisfied based on power-on.
(2) A storage means for storing the sound data read by the sound output control means for each storage area corresponding to each of the plurality of sound reproduction channels is provided, and the sound data stored in the storage means includes the sound data. The first sound data stored in the storage area corresponding to the specific sound reproduction channel and the second sound data stored in the storage area corresponding to the sound reproduction channel different from the specific sound reproduction channel. , And the same volume level is set, the volume of the sound that the sound output control means reads out the first sound data and causes the sound output means to output the sound is the sound output control. When the means is equal to or higher than the volume of the sound for reading the second voice data and outputting the sound to the voice sound producing means, and the same volume level is set, the sound output control means is in the maintenance state. Reads the first voice data and outputs the sound to the voice sound producing means, and the sound output control means reads the second voice data and outputs the sound to the voice sound producing means. The difference is that in the other state, the sound output control means reads the first voice data and causes the voice sound output means to output a sound volume and the sound output control means outputs the second sound data. The gaming machine according to (1), which is smaller than the difference in the volume of sounds that are read out and output by the sound producing means.
(3) When the same volume level is set, the volume of the voice that the sound output control means reads out the first voice data and outputs the sound to the voice sound output means in the maintenance state is the maintenance. The gaming machine according to (2), wherein in the state, the sound output control means reads out the second voice data and becomes the same as the volume of the sound to be output by the voice sound output means.
(4) Described in any one of (1) to (3), wherein at least power interruption and power recovery are required when the second transition condition is satisfied and the transition to the other state is performed in the maintenance state. Pachinko machine.

10 Game 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 Number of input LED
25b Number of stored LEDs
25c Acquired number display LED
25d instruction display LED
25e Replay display LED
25f Game start display LED
25g inputtable display LED
25h Advantageous mode display LED
26 Start lever 27 (27L, 27C, 27R) Stop button 27a Stoptable indicator LED
31 Medal slot 32 Settlement button 33 Medal return button 34 Door lock 35 Medal outlet 36 (36a-36h) Decorative LED
37 Lower plate 38 (38a to 38d) Speaker ports 40a, 40b Various sensors 41 (41a to 41h) Decorative 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 Effect button sensor 46 Menu selection button board 46a Cross key button sensor 46b Decision button sensor 47 Medal selector 47a Medal selector 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 to 49d) Speaker 51 Insert medal passage 52 Payout medal passage 53 Return medal passage 54 Storage medal passage 60 Game machine main body 62 Production display area 63 Production display device 64 Reel frame 65 (65L, 65C, 65R) ) Reel 66 (66L, 66C, 66R) Reel sensor 67 Reel lighting board 68 Reel motor 90 Outer frame 91 Power supply 92 Power switch 93 Hopper 95 Medal auxiliary storage 96 Medal auxiliary storage 96 Hing part 96a Upper hinge part 96b Middle hinge part 96c Lower hinge part 100 Main board 101 CPU
102 RAM
103 ROM
104 Random number circuit 110 Game progress management unit 111 Internal lottery unit 112 Reel control unit 113 Winning judgment unit 114 Medal management unit 115 Status display LED control unit 120 Main status management unit 121 Setting change management unit 122 Game status management unit 123 Replay time management unit 124 Game mode management unit 125 Error management unit 130 Main communication unit 131 Control command transmission unit 132 External signal transmission unit 200 Sub-board 201 CPU
202 RAM
203 ROM
204 Random number circuit 210 Sub communication unit 211 Control command reception unit 220 Production management unit 221 Production mode management unit 222 Production control unit 223 Production display control unit 224 Voice control unit 225 Decorative LED control unit 230 Sub status management unit L1 to L5 line

Claims (4)

The means of producing sound and the means of producing sound,
A sound output control means for controlling the voice sound output means and
By setting one of a plurality of predetermined volume steps, the volume control means capable of adjusting the volume of the sound output from the sound output means and the first transition condition are established. Then, it is equipped with a state management means that shifts to the maintenance state and shifts to another state when the second transition condition is satisfied.
When the same volume level is set, the volume of the sound output from the voice sound producing means in the maintenance state becomes the volume of the sound output from the voice sound producing means in the other state. Smaller than
A gaming machine characterized in that the first transition condition is satisfied based on power-on. A storage means for storing the voice data read by the sound output control means for each storage area corresponding to each of the plurality of voice reproduction channels is provided.
The audio data stored in the storage means includes the first audio data stored in the storage area corresponding to the specific audio reproduction channel, and the audio data stored in the storage means.
A second audio data stored in a storage area corresponding to an audio reproduction channel different from the specific audio reproduction channel is included.
When the same volume level is set, the volume of the sound that the sound output control means reads out the first voice data and causes the voice sound output means to output is the volume of the sound that the sound output control means second. When the volume of the sound to be read out from the above sound data and to be output to the sound output means is equal to or higher than the volume of the sound and the same volume level is set, the sound output control means is the first in the maintenance state. The difference between the volume of the sound that reads out the voice data and outputs the sound to the voice sound producing means and the volume of the sound that the sound output controlling means reads out the second voice data and outputs the sound to the voice sounding means is said. In another state, the sound output control means reads out the first voice data and causes the voice sound output means to output a sound volume, and the sound output control means reads out the second voice data and outputs the sound. The gaming machine according to claim 1, which is smaller than the difference in the volume of sounds output by the sound means. When the same volume level is set, the volume of the sound that the sound output control means reads out the first voice data and outputs the sound to the voice sound output means in the maintenance state is the said in the maintenance state. The gaming machine according to claim 2, wherein the sound output control means reads the second voice data and makes the volume of the sound output to the voice sound output means the same. The gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein at least power interruption and power recovery are required when the second transition condition is satisfied and the transition to the other state is performed in the maintenance state. ..

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