JP2022093534A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine in which no game value is bet based on unintended operation.

SOLUTION: A main control board does not perform betting of a game value based on depression even if power interruption occurs in a state in which a bet button is not depressed, the bet button is depressed during power interruption, and operation of the bet button is validated after recovering from power interruption in a state in which the bet button is depressed, does not perform betting of a game value based on depression even if the bet button is depressed during an error in which operation of the bet button is invalidated, and operation of the bet button is validated in a state in which the bet button is depressed, and does not perform betting of a game value based on depression even if the bet button is depressed during putout of a game value in which operation of the bet button is invalidated, and operation of the bet button is validated in a state in which the bet button is depressed.

SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 18

COPYRIGHT: (C)2022,JPO&INPIT

Description

The present invention relates to a gaming machine.

Conventionally, as a gaming machine, a slot machine equipped with a plurality of reels in which a plurality of symbols are arranged on an outer peripheral surface has been known. In the slot machine, the reels start to rotate with the start of the game, and an internal lottery using the lottery table is performed. Further, when the reels stop, the symbol combination corresponding to the winning combination won in the internal lottery is displayed by a plurality of reels, and when this winning combination becomes a prize, as a process corresponding to the winning combination, for example, a medal. A medal payout process for paying out (game value) and a re-game process that enables re-games without consuming new medals are performed.

Further, as a slot machine, a machine having an instruction function for assisting a winning of a specific winning combination is known. In such a slot machine, the instruction function is activated in the so-called AT effect state (assist time effect state: instruction effect state), and the batting order for winning a specific combination is notified, so that the player can specify the specific combination. It becomes easy to win a role. Further, in such a slot machine, in a predetermined game, an effect of notifying a target symbol when stopping the reel is executed (for example, Patent Document 1).

JP-A-2017-209252

By the way, in a gaming machine, it is required to suppress a decrease in playability.

The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and an object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine in which deterioration of game playability is suppressed.

In order to solve the above problems, the gaming machine of the present invention
Multiple reels with multiple types of symbols and
A plurality of stop operation means for detecting a stop operation for stopping the rotation of the reel, and
Display means for displaying images and
The image to be displayed on the display means is divided into a plurality of layers and managed, and the effect control means for controlling the effect via the display means is provided.
The staging control means
A first image of a display corresponding to a predetermined symbol is arranged on the first layer, and a part of the first image is hidden in a second layer higher than the first layer of the second image of the predetermined display. It is characterized in that the first image and the second image are arranged so that the predetermined symbol can be recognized when the images are arranged in the state, and the image is generated.

In the present invention, the first image of the display corresponding to the predetermined symbol is arranged on the first layer, and the second image of the predetermined display is placed on the second layer higher than the first layer, and a part of the first image. The first image and the second image are arranged so that the predetermined pattern can be recognized when the image is arranged in a hidden state, and the image is generated. Therefore, in the predetermined game, when the image of the display corresponding to the predetermined symbol is displayed, the visibility of the predetermined symbol is not significantly impaired, and the player can see what the predetermined symbol is. Can recognize whether it is. Thereby, it is possible to suppress the decrease in playability based on the decrease in the visibility of the predetermined symbol.

According to the gaming machine of the present invention, it is possible to suppress a decrease in playability.

It is a perspective view which shows an example of the gaming machine which concerns on 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the schematic structure of the gaming machine. The timing chart of the blocker position related to the settlement process executed based on the operation of the settlement button of the gaming machine, the control state of the main control board (main control means), and the control state of the sub control board (sub control means). Is. The same is a flowchart of the control operation on the main control board side related to the settlement process of the gaming machine. The same is a flowchart of the control operation on the sub-control board side related to the settlement process of the gaming machine. It is a timing chart (No. 1) showing the processing during and before and after the settlement processing of the gaming machine. It is a timing chart (No. 2) showing the processing during and before and after the settlement processing of the gaming machine. It is a figure which shows the error type of the gaming machine, an error code, and a cancellation method. It is a timing chart (No. 3) showing the processing during and before and after the settlement processing of the gaming machine. It is a timing chart (No. 4) showing the processing during and before and after the settlement processing of the gaming machine. It is a timing chart (No. 5) showing the processing during and before and after the settlement processing of the gaming machine. It is a perspective view which shows an example of the gaming machine which concerns on 2nd Embodiment of this invention. The same is an external perspective view showing a state in which the front door is opened. It is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration. It is a figure for demonstrating the edge detection process. The same is a flowchart showing the edge detection process. The same is a flowchart showing the update process at the time of recovery from power failure. It is a figure for demonstrating the process at the time of the electric power failure. It is a figure for demonstrating another example of processing in the case of power failure. The same is a flowchart showing another example of the update process at the time of recovery from power failure. 6 is a timing chart (No. 6) showing processing during and before and after the settlement processing of the gaming machine according to the first embodiment of the present invention. It is a perspective view which shows an example of the gaming machine which concerns on 3rd Embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the schematic structure of the gaming machine. It is a figure for demonstrating the internal lottery table. It is a diagram for explaining the correct batting order of the batting order bell. The same is a state transition diagram of the gaming state. It is a state transition diagram of the game section and the staging state. It is a figure for demonstrating the layer structure. It is a figure for demonstrating an example of the batting order navigation display. It is a figure which shows the symbol arrangement of the reel. Similarly, it is a figure which shows an example of the display when the red 7 aiming effect is performed. Similarly, it is a figure which shows an example of the display when the red 7 aiming effect is performed. In the same, it is a figure which shows an example of the display when the blue 7 aiming effect is performed. It is a figure for demonstrating an example of the display of the batting order navigation. It shows the display in the gaming machine which concerns on 4th Embodiment of this invention, and is the figure which shows the example of the display when the blue 7 aiming effect is performed. In the same, it is a figure which shows the example of the display when the blue 7 aiming effect is performed. In the same, it is a figure which shows the example of the display when the red 7 aiming effect (the 1) is performed. In the same, it is a figure which shows the example of the display when the red 7 aiming effect (the 1) is performed. In the same, it is a figure which shows the example of the display when the red 7 aiming effect (the 2) is performed. It is a figure explaining the relationship between the batting order and the stop mode in the gaming machine which concerns on 5th Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the stop mode of 7 sets of the same. In the same, (a) is a figure which shows the stop mode of "red 7, red 7, BAR", and (b) is a figure which shows the stop mode of the blue 7 uniform fanning. Similarly, (a) is a diagram showing a stop mode of replay alignment, and (b) is a diagram showing a stop mode of blue 7 alignment. Similarly, (a) is a diagram showing a stop mode of replay alignment, and (b) is a diagram showing a stop mode of weak cherries. It shows the display of the gaming machine which concerns on the 3rd Embodiment of this invention, and is the figure which shows an example of the display when the red 7 aiming effect is performed. It is a figure for demonstrating the characteristic part of the design.

(First Embodiment)
Hereinafter, the first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. The present embodiment will be described by taking the case where the present invention is applied to a slot machine which is one of the gaming machines as an example, but the present invention is not limited to the slot machine but is applied to other gaming machines such as pachinko gaming machines. May be done. Further, in the following description, basically, "front and back" means "front" on the player side and "rear" on the slot machine side when the player is on the front side of the slot machine, and "up and down". Means "top" on the top side of the slot machine, "bottom" on the bottom side, and "left and right" means "left" on the left hand side of the player playing the slot machine and "right" on the right hand side. do.

First, a schematic configuration of the slot machine M to which the invention is applied will be described.
FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a slot machine M.
The slot machine M includes a housing 1, which comprises a bottom plate, left and right side plates, a top plate, and a back plate, and has a front opening that opens to the front side of the housing 1. It is formed in a shape. In addition, on the upper surface of the bottom plate, a power supply unit having a built-in power supply device for supplying electric power to each component, and a hopper device 150 as a payout device for storing medals as a game medium (game value) and paying out medals ( (See FIG. 2) and the like are provided.

Further, on the front surface of the housing 1, a front door 3 for opening and closing the front opening of the housing 1 is provided, and the front door 3 closes the upper portion of the opening so as to be openable and closable. A door 30 and a lower door 40 that closes the lower part of the opening so as to be openable and closable are provided.
A replacement unit (not shown) is detachably provided in the housing 1. This exchange unit includes a frame body which is a metal frame assembled in a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape, a reel unit supported by the frame body, and a substrate unit fixed to the frame body.

The reel unit includes three stepping motors provided on the frame and three rotary reels 100a, 100b, 100c fixed to the output shaft of each stepping motor (see FIG. 2; not shown in FIG. 1). ) And. Further, the board unit is a board containing electronic components such as a CPU, ROM, RAM, and I / O, which is housed in a board case. Then, the board unit functions as a game control device for controlling the game of the slot machine M.

As shown in FIG. 1, a display window 31 is provided below the upper door 30. The display window 31 is provided so as to be inclined with respect to the horizontal plane so as to be directed toward the rear side toward the upper side, and three rotary reels are provided in a horizontal row at the back of the display window 31. A plurality of types of symbols are arranged on the outer peripheral surface of each rotary reel, and when the rotary reels are stopped, three symbols per reel are displayed through the display window 31. In the slot machine M, a total of five winning valid lines consisting of three horizontal lines and two diagonal lines are set.
Then, it is displayed whether or not the winning combination has won a prize by the combination of the symbols stopped on the winning valid line when the three rotating reels are stopped.

Further, a display window 32 larger than the display window 31 is provided substantially vertically on the upper part of the upper door 30. The display window 32 is provided to see the display surface of the image display device provided on the upper door 30. The image display device has a liquid crystal display panel, and the image display device displays an image for effect on the gaming machine on the display surface thereof. Further, speakers 14 for outputting various production sounds (music, sound effects, sounds, etc.) are provided on the left and right side portions of the upper door 30 located above the display window 32.

Further, in the upper center portion of the display window 32 of the upper door 30, a horizontally long top lens 33 that allows the player to see the display of the logo sheet is provided as a display portion.
Further, horizontally long lighting devices 34, 35, 34 for performing notification, directing, and the like are provided adjacent to the left and right between the display window 32 and the display window 31.

Further, an effect panel 61 for performing notification and an effect is provided on both the left and right sides of the display window 31, and an effect button 62 is provided on the right side effect panel 61. The effect button 62 is pressed and operated by the player, and when pressed, the mode of the effect image displayed on the image display device, for example, which can be seen through the display window 32, is changed, and the player can play the game. It is intended to raise awareness of participation and enhance interest. For example, it is possible to select an effect image to be displayed on the image display device in conjunction with the operation of the effect button 62. The arrangement of the effect button 62 is not limited to this, and may be provided at a position where the player can press the button 62.
Further, lighting devices 37 for performing notification, directing, and the like are provided on both the left and right sides of the upper door 30.

Further, the upper door 30 is rotatably connected to the exchange unit provided in the housing 1 via a hinge to open and close the upper part of the opening of the housing 1. Further, the lower door 40 is rotatably connected to the housing 1 via a hinge to open and close the lower part of the opening of the housing 1.

In addition, this slot machine M has a structure of a separate type housing type, and when exchanging a model in a game store, the exchange unit to which the upper door 30 is rotatably attached is exchanged. When replacing the model, the housing 1, the lower door 40, the power supply unit in the housing 1, the hopper device 150 (see FIG. 2), etc. are still attached to the island equipment of the game store and are not replaced. .. Further, the slot machine M is not limited to the separate housing type, and the entire slot machine may be replaced when the model is replaced. In this case, the front door 3 may be an integral structure that is not divided into the upper door 30 and the lower door 40. Further, when the upper door 30 and the lower door 40 are separated, the upper door 30 may be rotatably attached to the side plate of the housing 1 via a hinge.

Further, an engaging portion is provided at the lower end of the upper door 30 so as to be rearward from the front surface of the lower door 40 and protrude below the upper end of the lower door 40, and the upper door 30 is in a state where the lower door 40 is closed. It has a structure that cannot be opened.

Further, in the lower part of the lower door 40, a medal payout port for ejecting medals from the inside of the slot machine M and a medal tray 43 for storing medals ejected from the medal payout port are formed. .. Further, an operation unit 50 for operating the slot machine M is provided on the upper part of the lower door 40, and a liquid crystal display panel 45 is attached between the operation unit 50 and the medal tray 43. Further, lighting devices 33d for performing notification, directing, and the like are provided on the left and right sides of the liquid crystal display panel 45, respectively.

The operation unit 50 is provided with a settlement button 52 as a settlement operation unit for instructing a settlement process for paying out medals. In this case, in the settlement process based on the operation of the settlement button 52, the medals set in at least one of the bet and the credit are paid out. That is, the target of settlement based on the operation of the settlement button 52 in the present embodiment includes not only medals set for credits but also medals set for bets. Here, as a settlement pattern by operating the settlement button 52 when medals are set for both bets and credits, for example, the medals and credits set for bets by the first operation of the settlement button 52 are set. Only the medals set in the bet are paid out by the settlement pattern in which both of the medals that have been set are paid out at once, or the medals set in the bet are paid out by the first operation of the settlement button 52, and 2 after the medals set in the bet are settled. The settlement pattern in which the medal set in the credit is paid out by the operation of the settlement button 52 for the second time can be mentioned.
Further, the operation unit 50 further includes a start lever 53 for starting the game, three stop buttons 54 for stopping the rotation of each of the three rotating reels, and a medal insertion slot 42 for inserting medals. , Reject button 55 to clear the medal jam that occurred in the medal passage below the medal slot 42, MAX bet button 56 operated when betting the maximum number of 3 medals (bet button: bet operation unit) In addition to the above, an operation panel 57 for selecting a game effect and the like, and a display unit 58 are also provided. The operation panel 57 is arranged at a substantially central portion in the width direction (left-right direction) of the operation unit 50, and the display unit 58 is arranged on the right side of the medal insertion slot 42 and the reject button 55. The operation panel 57 has a cross key for selecting an effect, a decision button, a cancel button, and the like.

The MAX bet button 56 is arranged so as to face upward, and is formed so as to be pushed downward from above. The force required to operate the MAX bet button 56 (hereinafter referred to as an operating force) is about 1.0 N. Further, the MAX bet button 56 includes a pressing portion and an elastic member. The pressing portion is a member that is pushed in by a player's finger or the like, and is made of resin or the like. Further, the pressing portion is urged upward by an elastic member. The elastic member is a member that is formed so as to urge the pressing portion and elastically deform against the urging force when the pressing portion is pushed in, and a spring or the like is used.
Further, the stop button 54 is arranged so as to face forward, and is formed so as to be pushed from the front to the rear. The operating force of the stop button 54 is about 0.7N. That is, the operating force of the stop button 54 is smaller than the operating force of the MAX bet button 56.

Further, the effect button 62 described above is arranged so as to face forward, and is formed so as to be pushed from the front to the rear. The operating force of the effect button 62 is greater than or equal to the operating force of the MAX bet button 56. The operating force of the effect button 62 is, for example, about 3.0 N.
Further, the stop button 54 and the effect button 62 include a pressing portion and an elastic member like the MAX bet button 56, and the pressing portion of the stop button 54 and the effect button 62 is urged forward by the elastic member. ing.
Further, as described above, the operating force of the MAX bet button 56 is about 1.0 N. That is, it is necessary to push the pressing portion to elastically deform the elastic member and move the pressing portion to a position where a switch ON signal (a signal indicating that the button is pressed) is output from the sensor provided in the MAX bet button 56. The load (sensor detection load) is about 1.0N. In the gaming machine of the present embodiment, a photo sensor is used as the sensor, but other sensors may be used as long as they can detect the pressing of the pressing portion. The photo sensor outputs a switch ON signal when it detects that the light directed from the light emitting element to the light receiving element has changed due to a detection object that moves by pushing the pressing portion, for example. When a load larger than the sensor-detected load is applied, the pressing portion moves further while elastically deforming the elastic member, and comes into contact with the mechanical stopper to stop. The moving distance (full stroke) from the initial position of the pressing portion of the MAX bet button 56 to the contact with the mechanical stopper is about 2.0 mm, which is about twice the ON stroke. Further, the load (maximum load) required to move the pressing portion of the MAX bet button 56 from the initial position until it comes into contact with the mechanical stopper is about 2.0 N, which is about twice the sensor detection load (operating force). It has become.
The stop button 54 (operating force of about 0.7 N) has the same configuration. Further, the ON stroke of the stop button 54 is about 1.0 mm, and the full stroke is about 2.0 mm, which is about twice that. Further, the sensor detection load (operating force) of the stop button 54 is about 0.7N, and the maximum load is about 1.4N, which is about twice that.
In the above description, the term "about" used for operating force, load, and stroke means to include a variation of about ± 10% due to a design error or an assembly error.

Here, the basic flow of the game in the gaming machine of the present embodiment will be described. When the player presses the MAX bet button 56, the credited medal is inserted (bet) and the game can be started. Then, when the player presses the start lever 53 as an operation to start the game, the rotary reel starts to rotate, and when the rotary speed of the rotary reel rises to a predetermined speed, the push operation of the stop button 54 is effective. It becomes a state. After that, when the player presses the stop button 54 at an arbitrary timing, each rotating reel stops. Then, when all the rotating reels are stopped, a process of paying out medals, a process of making the game ready to start again without consuming new medals, and the like are performed according to the result of the game. The game ends.

Further, the effect button 62 is used to notify the player of something that is pleasing to the player, such as hitting a bonus or deciding to shift to a state that is advantageous to the player, or for the player. At a predetermined timing such as a game place of the game, the pressing operation for changing the mode of the effect becomes effective. Then, when the effect button 62 is pressed while the pressing operation is valid, the mode of the effect image displayed on the image display device changes, or the movable accessory moves, and the mode of the effect changes. do.

As is clear from the above, it is necessary to press a plurality of stop buttons 54 according to the number of rotating reels for each game. At this time, since the operating force of the stop button 54 is set to be smaller than the operating force of the MAX bet button 56 and the effect button 62, the player obtains a light and comfortable operation feeling with respect to the operation of the stop button 54. At the same time, it is possible to press all the stop buttons 54 at a good tempo. Therefore, the player can comfortably play the game, and the playability is improved. Further, by setting the operating force of the frequently used stop button 54 to be small in this way, the accumulation of fatigue of the player is reduced, and the playability is improved.

Further, since the MAX bet button 56 is used for an operation for starting a game and can be operated by hitting it from above, it is often operated with a strong force, but a stop button. Since the operation force is set to be larger than that of 54, the player can obtain an operation feeling that is appropriately pressed, and the playability is improved.

Further, the effect button 62 is operated less frequently than the stop button 54 and the MAX bet button 56. Further, the effect button 62 is in a state in which a pressing operation for changing the mode of the effect is effective when notifying the player that the player is pleased as described above, or at a game place for the player. Therefore, it tends to be operated with a strong force by a player who is in an uplifted state. Since the operating force of the effect button 62 is set to be larger than the operating force of the stop button 54 and equal to or greater than the operating force of the MAX bet button 56, the player feels heavy and heavy. Can be obtained, and playability is improved.

As shown in FIG. 2, inside the slot machine M, a main control board 70 as a main control means for determining a command related to a game and transmitting the command, and receiving the command from the main control board 70 and transmitting the command thereof. A sub-control board 72 is provided as a sub-control means for executing a process corresponding to the received command. The main control board 70 is provided with input means such as a bet button 56 including a MAX bet button, a start lever 53, a stop button 54, a passage detection sensor 89 for detecting the passage of medals inserted from the medal insertion slot 42, and a settlement button 52. In response to the input signal of, various calculations for executing the game are performed, and the output means such as the reel unit (reels 100a, 100b, 100c) and the hopper device 150 are controlled based on the calculation results. Further, the sub control board 72 receives a signal (command) sent from the main control board 70, performs various calculations for executing the effect, and corresponds to the display window 32 based on the calculation result. It controls a liquid crystal display D of an image display device including the above-mentioned liquid crystal display panel provided on the upper door 30 and another liquid crystal display panel 45, and a device for directing such as a speaker 14.

Further, the main control board 70 and the sub control board 72 are electrically connected to each other, and various information (command signals) such as information indicating the game state can be transmitted from the main control board 70 to the sub control board 72. However, information cannot be transmitted from the sub control board 72 to the main control board 70.
Further, the functions of each board such as the main control board 70 and the sub control board 72 are preliminarily applied to various processors (CPU, DSP, etc.), ICs, hardware such as information storage media such as ROM and RAM, ROM and the like. It is realized by software consisting of a predetermined program stored.

The main control board 70 performs a winning combination lottery with a selector control means 93 for controlling the operation of the medal selector 92 (see FIG. 2), an input receiving means 80, and a random number generating means 81, which will be described later, to determine the winning or losing of the winning combination. Winning combination lottery means 82, reel control means 83 for controlling the rotation of reels, winning combination determining means 84 for determining whether or not a winning combination has won when all reels are stopped, and game state control means 85. The information transmission means 86 for transmitting various information (command signals), the storage means 90, the payout control means 91, and the settlement control means 95 are provided.
Further, the sub-control board 72 is determined by the effect control means 73 that controls various effects, the winning combination determination means 74 that performs the winning combination determination process, and the winning combination determination means 74 that the winning combination is incorrect (error). The sub-control board 72 is provided with an initialization means 75 for resetting and initializing the sub-control board 72, and a sub-side storage means 76 for storing data related to the effect.

The insertion receiving means 80 of the main control board 70 accepts the insertion of medals for each game, and performs a process of validating the game start operation for the start lever 53 based on the insertion of a predetermined number of medals. Specifically, when a medal is inserted into the medal insertion slot 42, the passage detection sensor 89 detects the passage of the medal, and the insertion receiving means 80 inserts the inserted medal up to three medals. Set to the input state (bet state). Further, when the bet button 56 is pressed while the medals are credited, the insertion receiving means 80 sets the credited medals to the insertion state up to a maximum of three medals. In the gaming machine of the present embodiment, the first pressing operation on the start lever 53 activated based on the insertion of three medals is accepted as the gaming start operation, and the reels 100a to 100c are triggered by the operation. As the rotation starts, a lottery such as a winning combination lottery is performed.

Further, the insertion receiving means 80 of the main control board 70 controls so that the medal owned by the player is not newly set in the insertion state in the next game of the game in which the replay wins. Specifically, when the replay wins in the previous game, even if a medal is inserted into the medal insertion slot 42 while the medal is being inserted, the inserted medal is not set to the inserted state. Credit the inserted medals up to the maximum number of credits (for example, 50). Further, the operation for the bet button 56 is not accepted in the state of accepting the insertion of medals, and the credited medal is not set in the insertion state even if the bet button 56 is pressed.

The random number generation means 81 of the main control board 70 generates a random number value for lottery. The random value can be generated based on, for example, the count value of an increment counter (a counter that counts numerical values so as to circulate in a predetermined count range). It should be noted that the "random number" is not only a value that is randomly generated in a mathematical sense, but even if the generation itself is regular, the acquisition timing and the like are irregular, so that the "random number" substantially functions as a random number. Random values are also included.

The winning combination lottery means 82 of the main control board 70 performs a winning combination lottery using the winning combination lottery table based on the operation of the activated start lever 53 (that is, the start of the game). In the winning combination lottery table, each of a plurality of random numbers (for example, 65536 random numbers from 0 to 65535) is associated with various winning combinations and losses (unwinning) including small winning combinations, replays, and bonuses. It is stored in a plurality of winning combination lottery table storage areas provided in the ROM of the storage means 90. In the winning combination lottery, a random number value for lottery is acquired from the random number generation means 81, and this random number value is collated with the winning combination lottery table to determine whether or not the winning combination has been won, and is associated with the random number value. The winning combination will be won.

The reel control means 83 of the main control board 70 rotates the reels 100a, 100b, 100c as the start lever 53 activated under the control of the main control board 70 is operated (that is, the game starts). When the activated stop button 54 is operated, the reel stop control corresponding to the operated stop button 54 is performed.

That is, each time each button of the stop button 54 is operated, the reel control means 83 determines and determines the stop position of the reel corresponding to the operated button among the first reel 100a to the third reel 100c. Control is performed to stop the reel at the stopped position. Therefore, the stop order of the first reel 100a to the third reel 100c changes depending on the operation order (batting order) of the three stop buttons 54.

The winning determination means 84 of the main control board 70 is operated when the rotation of the reels 100a to 100c is stopped, and determines whether or not the winning combination has been won based on the stopping mode of the reels 100a to 100c. Specifically, the symbol combination displayed (stop display) on the effective line when the reels 100a to 100c are stopped is collated with the winning determination table (not shown) stored in the ROM of the storage means 90. .. In the winning judgment table, each winning form (a combination of symbols that will be won when stopped and displayed) is stored in each winning combination, and the presence or absence of winning and the type of winning combination can be determined by the above-mentioned collation. do. When the winning combination wins, the main control board 70 executes a winning process corresponding to the winning combination.

The game state control means 85 of the main control board 70 is between a plurality of states, for example, a normal state, a CBB established state (first bonus established state), a CBB state (first bonus state), and an RBB established state (second bonus established state). State), RBB state (second bonus state), RB1 established state (specific bonus established state), and RB1 state (specific bonus state), the game state transition control process is performed.

The information transmission means 86 of the main control board 70 has a signal for notifying the winning combination, a signal for notifying the gaming state at the time of the winning combination lottery for which the winning combination has been won, a signal for notifying the current gaming state, and the like, which will be described later. A command signal related to medal settlement is also transmitted to the sub control board 72.

Further, the payout control means 91 of the main control board 70 performs a payout control process for paying out medals according to the game result. Specifically, for example, when a small winning combination is won, the number of medals to be paid out in the game is determined based on a predetermined dividend for each winning combination, and the medals corresponding to the determined number of payouts are transferred to the hopper device 150. Control to pay out.
Further, as described above, the selector control means 93 of the main control board 70 controls the operation of the medal selector 92, which will be described later. Specifically, the selector control means 93 receives signals from various sensors including the above-mentioned passage detection sensor 89 constituting the medal selector 92, and controls the operation of the blocker 99 constituting the medal selector 92. The selector control means 93 may also be used by the input receiving means 80 or the like without separately providing the selector control means 93.

Further, the settlement control means 95 of the main control board 70 pays out the stored medals, that is, the medals set in the credit and / or the bet, through the hopper device 150, based on the operation of the settlement button 52. Controls the execution of. The settlement control means 95 not only controls the execution of the settlement process based on the operation of the settlement button 52, but also accepts medals accompanied by the detection by the passage detection sensor 89 after the settlement process is completed for a predetermined period as described later. The operation of the blocker 99 may be controlled so as not to allow over. In such a control mode, the above-mentioned selector control means 93 for controlling the operation of the medal selector 92 including the blocker 99 may also be used by the settlement control means 95.

On the other hand, the staging control means 73 of the sub control board 72 cooperates with the RAM of the sub side storage means 76 based on the staging data stored in the staging data storage area provided in the ROM of the sub side storage means 76. Further, the liquid crystal display D, the speaker 14, and the lighting devices 33d, 34, 35, 37 and the like are controlled to perform the staging. Specifically, the display content of the liquid crystal display D may be changed or the display content of the liquid crystal display D may be changed from the speaker 14 according to the insertion of medals, the operation of the bet button 56, the settlement button 52, the start lever 53, the stop button 54, the change of the game state, and the like. By outputting a sound, the execution of the effect for enlivening the game or assisting the game is controlled according to the progress of the game. In particular, in the present embodiment, as will be described later, the staging control means 73 notifies the state of the settlement button 52 based on the operation of the settlement button 52, specifically, in the settlement executing state and the settlement completion state, which will be described later. In order to output the staging sound, the staging light, and the staging image, the liquid crystal display D (45), the speaker 14, and the staging devices such as the lighting devices 33d, 34, 35, 37 are controlled. There is.

Further, in the slot machine M of the present embodiment, medals inserted through the medal insertion slot 42 are selectively guided to the medal payout opening side or the passage detection sensor 89 side by the blocker 99 capable of removing medals from the medal passage. A medal selector 92 (see FIG. 2) is provided, and medals inserted during a period other than the allowable insertion period during which medals can be inserted or non-standard medals are operated in an unauthorized position that causes a medal acceptance disapproval state. The blocker 99 in the state guides the medal to the medal payout port, and the medal within the standard inserted within the allowable insertion period is sent to the passage detection sensor 89 by the blocker 99 in the deactivated state at the permitted position that brings the medal acceptance permission state. It is guided that the medal insertion is detected.
Specifically, the medal selector 92 has an insertion detection sensor 130 (first sensor: see FIG. 2) located in the vicinity of the medal insertion slot 42 in the medal passage leading from the medal insertion slot 42, and a downstream side of the blocker 99. It has a passage detection sensor 89 (second sensor: see FIG. 2) located at.
In this case, the insertion detection sensor 130 is a sensor located upstream of the blocker 99, unlike the passage detection sensor 89 located downstream of the blocker 99, and detects the insertion of medals through the medal insertion slot 42. The detection signal is sent to the main control board 70. The main control board 70 has an abnormality caused by, for example, a foreign object being illegally inserted into the medal passage from the medal insertion slot 42 when the ON state of the insertion detection sensor 130 has elapsed for a certain period of time (for example, 0.6 seconds) or more. It is designed to determine that there is.
Further, the passage detection sensor 89 detects the passage of medals within the standard inserted within the insertion allowable period in which the medals flow down without being excluded from the medal passage by the blocker 99, and sends the detection signal to the main control board 70. .. The passage detection sensor 89 is composed of, for example, a photointerruptor type infrared sensor composed of a light emitting portion and a light receiving portion facing each other across a medal passage, and infrared light emitted from the light emitting portion and incident on the light receiving portion is a medal. The passage of medals is detected by being blocked by the medals flowing down the passage. When the passage of the medal is detected by the passage detection sensor 89, the medal enables the game. That is, the bet or credit of the medal can be added.
Further, the blocker 99, which is located on the upstream side of the passage detection sensor 89 and constitutes the medal selector 92, may operate in conjunction with, for example, a solenoid. In that case, for example, when the solenoid is in the non-excited state, the blocker 99 receives the urging force of the coil spring to enter the operating state, and the blocker 99 can remove the medal from the medal passage. On the other hand, when the solenoid is in the excited state, the blocker is moved against the urging force of the coil spring to release the operation, and the medal is guided to the passage detection sensor 89 side to detect the insertion of the medal. The operation of such a medal selector 92 is controlled by the selector control means 93 of the main control board 70 as described above.
Although the position of the blocker 99 is controlled to move to the unauthorized position, the position of the blocker 99 is moved to the permitted position due to fraudulent acts or the like, and the medal is detected by the passage detection sensor 89. If so, the medal is not accepted and error handling is performed without any bets or credits being added. However, it is not always necessary to have such a configuration. That is, the medal acceptance disapproval state in which the acceptance of medals accompanied by the detection by the passage detection sensor 89 is not permitted can be realized by, for example, setting the position of the blocker 99 to the disallowed position, but such a medal acceptance disapproval state. When a medal passes through the passage detection sensor 89 due to a malfunction or fraud, the passage detection sensor 89 may detect the medal and the medal may be bet or credited, and the passage detection sensor 89 detects the medal. The configuration may be such that error processing is executed, or the passage detection sensor 89 may not detect (react) the medal.

Further, in the slot machine M of the present embodiment, after the settlement process based on the pressing operation of the settlement button 52 is completed, the settlement end effect sound such as a voice indicating that the settlement is completed, that is, the completion of the settlement process is notified. Along with the output of the effect sound, it is accompanied by a state in which the settlement is being completed, which does not allow the acceptance of the medal accompanied by the detection by the passage detection sensor 89 for a predetermined period. This will be described in detail below.
Here, the "detection by the passage detection sensor 89" includes both the passage detection of an appropriate medal and the passage detection of an abnormal medal. Further, "acceptance of a medal (game medium) accompanied by detection by the passage detection sensor 89" means that the passage of the medal is properly detected by the passage detection sensor 89 and a bet or a credit is made. Further, the "state in which the settlement is completed in which the acceptance of the medal (game medium) accompanied by the detection by the passage detection sensor 89 is not allowed for a predetermined period" means that the passage detection itself of the medal by the passage detection sensor 89 is blocked by the blocker 99. It is a concept including a hard meaning and a soft meaning that a bet or a credit is not made even when an abnormal medal passage is detected by the passage detection sensor 89.

FIG. 3 shows a timing chart of the position of the blocker 99 regarding the settlement process executed based on the operation of the settlement button 52, the control state of the main control board 70, and the control state of the sub control board 72. Further, FIG. 4 shows a flowchart of the control operation on the main control board 70 side related to the settlement process, and FIG. 5 shows a flowchart of the control operation on the sub control board 72 side related to the settlement process. There is.
As shown in FIG. 3, at the end of the predetermined game, the slot machine M is usually in the medal acceptance permission state A in which the blocker 99 is set to the permission position. At this time, assuming that the main control board 70 is in the non-settlement state C1 without the settlement process based on the pressing operation of the settlement button 52 (step S1 in FIG. 4), the discussion will proceed below.
This non-settlement state C1 is brought about by the control of the main control board 70. In this non-settlement state C1, since the blocker 99 of the medal selector 92 is in the permitted position as described above, the medal inserted through the medal insertion slot 42 is guided to the passage detection sensor 89 to be detected and bet or bet. Be credited. Further, in the medal acceptance permission state A, the sub-control board 72 controls to bring about the non-settlement effect state C1'(step S10 in FIG. 5), whereby the normal effect or the normal effect is performed through the liquid crystal display D and the speaker 14. A demo production that shifts from the production is executed.

Further, when the settlement button 52 is pressed in such a medal acceptance permission state A, the slot machine M is in the medal acceptance disapproval state B (see FIG. 3). Specifically, the settlement control means may also serve as the selector control means 93 by controlling the main control board 70 based on the pressing operation of the settlement button 52 exceeding a specific period (for example, 1 second), particularly in the present embodiment. Under the control of 95, the blocker 99 of the medal selector 92 described above is moved to the unauthorized position. Therefore, even if a medal is inserted through the medal insertion slot 42, the medal is guided to the medal payout opening by the operating blocker 99 in the unauthorized position and discharged to the medal tray 43. When the settlement process is started with the pressing operation of the settlement button 52 exceeding a specific period (for example, 1 second) in this way, the timing at which the blocker 99 moves to the unauthorized position is the pressing operation of the settlement button 52. It may be simultaneous. In this way, if the blocker 99 is moved to the unauthorized position in advance before the settlement process is started, the processing load that the settlement process and the bet or credit addition process are executed at the same time does not occur. Can be done.
Further, when the settlement button 52 is pressed in this way (when YES in step S2 of FIG. 4), the main control board 70 (settlement control means 95) subordinates the settlement start command via the information transmission means 86. Along with transmitting to the control board 72 (step S3 in FIG. 4), the hopper device 150 is operated so that the stored medals, that is, the medals set in the credit and / or the bet, are sent from the medal payout port to the medal tray 43. Control is performed to bring about the settlement executing state C2 discharged to (step S4 in FIG. 4).

Regarding the operation of pressing the settlement button 52 beyond the specific period for starting the settlement, the main control board 70 may press the bet button 56 during the specific period during which the settlement button 52 is pressed. , The process of setting the credited medal to the inserted state (bet process) may not be performed. That is, during the specific period, the medal may not be bet based on the operation of pressing the bet button 56. With such a configuration, it is possible to prevent both betting and settlement, which are contradictory processes. In the case of such a configuration, even if the bet button 56 pressed during the specific period continues to be pressed until the pressing operation of the settlement button 52 is released or the settlement process is completed, the medal Bets may not be placed. Further, even if the settlement button 52 is pressed while the bet button 56 is pressed and the settlement button 52 is pressed for more than a specific period, the settlement process may not be performed.
Further, regarding the operation of pressing the settlement button 52 beyond the specific period for starting the settlement, the main control board 70 is the case where the bet button 56 is pressed during the specific period during which the settlement button 52 is pressed. In addition, a process (bet process) for setting the credited medal to the inserted state may be performed. According to such a configuration, contradictory processing can be compatible.

On the other hand, when the sub control board 72 receives the settlement start command from the main control board 70 (YES in step S11 of FIG. 5), the sub control board 72 displays an effect image for notifying that the settlement is being executed through the liquid crystal display D (45). Among the lighting devices 33d, 34, 35, 37, the first effect sound (the effect sound during the settlement) that is displayed and notifies that the settlement is being executed by sounding a buzzer sound through the speaker 14 is output. Control is performed to bring about the settlement executing effect state C2', which outputs an effect light for notifying that the settlement is being executed through at least one of the above (step S12 in FIG. 5). In addition, in FIG. 3, the period of the settlement execution state C2 and the period of the settlement execution execution effect state C2'are both shown by P1.

Then, when the settlement process for ejecting the medals to the medal tray 43 with the operation of the hopper device 150 is completely completed (YES in step S5 of FIG. 4), the main control board 70 (settlement control means 95) is subjected to. The settlement end command is transmitted to the sub-control board 72 via the information transmission means 86 (step S6 in FIG. 4), and the settlement end state C3 that does not allow the acceptance of medals accompanied by the detection by the passage detection sensor 89 for a predetermined period is performed. The control to bring is performed (step S7 in FIG. 4). That is, the settlement control means 95 of the main control board 70 still keeps the blocker 99 of the medal selector 92 in the disallowed position, so that the slot machine M is kept in the medal acceptance disallowed state B. Therefore, even if a medal is inserted through the medal slot 42, the medal is guided to the medal payout slot by the blocker 99 in the unauthorized position and discharged to the medal tray 43. Of course, this also applies to the above-mentioned settlement executing state C2. That is, even in the settlement executing state C2, the acceptance of medals accompanied by the detection by the passage detection sensor 89 is not allowed.

On the other hand, when the sub control board 72 receives the settlement end command from the main control board 70 (YES in step S13 of FIG. 5), the sub-control board 72 notifies that the settlement is being executed through the liquid crystal display D. While maintaining the above-mentioned output of the staging light notifying that the settlement is being executed through the display and at least one of the lighting devices 33d, 34, 35, 37, for example, the above-mentioned first for about 2 seconds. A second staging sound (settlement end staging sound) that notifies the completion of the settlement process, which is different from the staging sound of (Sound) is output through the speaker 14 to bring about the effect state C3'during the end of settlement (step S14 in FIG. 5).
As for the second effect sound, the notification time (sound output period) is constant regardless of the settlement processing time (time required for medal payout). On the other hand, in the first effect sound, the notification time (sound output period) differs depending on the settlement processing time (time required for paying out medals).

Here, in the present embodiment, the output of the second effect sound ends within the period P2 (see FIG. 3) of the settlement in progress state C3. That is, the effecting state C3'during the settlement spans the same period P2 as the period P2 of the settlement ending state C3, while the period P3 that outputs the second effecting sound and the second effecting sound are output. It has a period of silence P4 and no. In other words, the period P2 of the settlement ending state C3 is set longer than the period P3 of the settlement ending effect state C3'that outputs the second effect sound. Further, in the present embodiment, the time from the end of the output of the second effect sound (the end of the period P3 of the effect state C3'during the settlement) to the end of the period P2 of the state C3 during the end of the settlement ( Period) P4, that is, the silent period P4 in which the second effect sound is not output, is the time until the medal is inserted from the medal insertion slot 42 and detected by the passage detection sensor 89, that is, the second effect. The medal inserted from the medal insertion slot 42 during sound output is set longer than the period during which the medal may remain in the medal passage from the medal insertion slot 42 to the passage detection sensor 89. In the case of the present embodiment, the time until the medal is inserted from the medal insertion slot 42 and detected by the passage detection sensor 89 is set to about 0.1 seconds to 0.65 seconds, for example, about 0.3 seconds. Alternatively, in the modified example, the time from the detection of the medal by the insertion detection sensor 130 to the detection by the passage detection sensor 89 is set to about 0.1 seconds to 0.65 seconds, for example, about 0.3 seconds. Therefore, the period P4 is set to, for example, about 0.7 seconds.

Specifically, as a flow of control operation, the settlement control means 95 of the main control board 70 determines whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed after the settlement completion state C3 is reached, as shown in FIG. (Step S8 in FIG. 4). Of course, the "predetermined time" in this case (the period P2 of the state C3 during the settlement) is a longer period than the period P3 of the effect state C3'during the settlement, as described above, and in the present embodiment, the settlement is completed. Further than the period P3 of the effect state C3'during the end, the time exceeding the time until the medal is inserted from the medal insertion slot 42 and detected by the passage detection sensor 89, for example, about 2.7 seconds. Then, when a predetermined time elapses (when YES in step S8 of FIG. 4) after the settlement control means 95 of the main control board 70 reaches the settlement completion state C3, the settlement is completed via the information transmission means 86. A command for ending the middle state is transmitted to the sub-control board 72 (step S9 in FIG. 4), and control is performed so as to return to the above-mentioned non-settlement state C1 (step S1 in FIG. 4). Therefore, the slot machine M is in the medal acceptance permission state A.

On the other hand, the sub-control board 72 determines whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed as shown in FIG. 5 after entering the period P3 of the effect state C3'during the settlement for outputting the second effect sound. (Step S15 in FIG. 5). Of course, the "predetermined time" in this case (the period P3 of the effecting state C3'during the settlement) is shorter than the period P2 of the state C3 during the settlement as described above. Then, when a predetermined time elapses (when YES in step S15 of FIG. 5) after entering the period P3 of the effect state C3'during the settlement, the sub control board 72 ends the output of the second effect sound. (Step S16 in FIG. 5), and control is performed so as to return to the above-mentioned non-settlement effect state C1'(step S10 in FIG. 5).

Here, the settlement end in progress end command transmitted from the main control board 70 to the sub control board 72 at the end of the settlement end state C3 acts as some trigger signal for the operation on the sub control board 72 side. May be good. For example, the sub-control board 72 passes through the liquid crystal display D, a lighting device, or the like from the end of the output of the second effect sound to the time when the main control board 70 receives the command to end the settlement end state, that is, during the period P4. Some effect of notifying the medal acceptance disapproval state B may be executed, and then an effect corresponding to the non-settlement in progress state (for example, a demo effect) may be executed when the settlement end in progress end command is received. Of course, it is not necessary to send the settlement completion state end command from the main control board 70 to the sub control board 72 at the end of the settlement end state C3. Further, in this embodiment, the passage of the predetermined time in step S15 is managed by the sub control board 72 itself, but the passage of the predetermined time in step S15 may be managed by the main control board 70, for example, the main. The output of the second effect sound in step S16 may be terminated by the command signal from the control board 70.

If a power failure (power cutoff) / power failure recovery occurs during the above control operation, especially during the output of the second effect sound, including a power failure and a momentary power failure, the main control board 70 side. When the movement to return from the middle of the settlement end state C3, that is, when the measurement of the remaining time is restarted from the elapsed time of the settlement end state at the time of power failure, the settlement is being completed after the return for the time elapsed before the power failure. The period of state C3 is shortened. Therefore, if the sub-control board 72 side outputs the second effect sound again in that state, the period P3 of the effect state C3'during the settlement becomes longer than the period C3 of the effect state C3 after the return. There is a risk that it will end up. Therefore, in the present embodiment, it is preferable that the sub-control board 72 does not output the second effect sound after the power failure is restored, while the effect light and the effect image are restored in the initial state. This is because if the sound is restarted from the middle of the second effect sound, the player cannot be notified of appropriate information.
Alternatively, as another example of such measures against power failure, if the power failure / power failure recovery (including power failure and momentary power failure) is performed in the middle of the settlement executing state C2, the medal settlement process is already performed before the power failure. While resuming from the settlement of the remaining medals excluding the settled medals, the effect in the effect state C2'during the settlement is restarted from the output of the first effect sound (sound effect and buzzer sound), and the settlement is in progress. The lighting of the staging light (for example, lighting in red) for notifying the fact is also resumed, but the staging image may be restored by the demo staging which is the initial state.

As described above, in the present embodiment, after the settlement execution state C2, that is, after the settlement process based on the operation of the settlement button 52 is completed, the second effect sound for notifying the completion of the settlement process is output. In this situation, the checkout in progress state C3, which does not allow the acceptance of medals accompanied by the detection by the passage detection sensor 89, is obtained. In the meantime, it is possible for the slot machine M to set the medal acceptance disapproval state B, and therefore, there is no discrepancy between the player's recognition and the actual state of the slot machine M regarding whether or not the medal insertion acceptance is possible. Can be done. That is, it is possible to prevent the slot machine M from accepting medals in a situation where the player recognizes that the medal acceptance is not permitted, and therefore, an unexpected disadvantage due to the above-mentioned misidentification. Do not have to be given to the player.

Further, in the present embodiment, the output of the second effect sound is terminated by the control of the sub control board 72 within the period P2 of the settlement in progress state C3 (that is, at the end of the period P3), so that the second effect is produced. It is possible to surely prevent the medal acceptance permission state from being entered during the sound output, and it is possible to surely confirm the above-mentioned action and effect.

Further, in the present embodiment, the time P4 from the end of the output of the second effect sound (the end of the period P3 of the effect state C3'during the settlement) to the end of the period P2 of the state C3 during the end of the settlement is set. The time is set longer than the time until the medal is inserted from the medal insertion slot 42 and detected by the passage detection sensor 89. The time from the end of the output of the second effect sound by the sub-control board 72 (the end of the period P3 of the effect state C3'during the settlement) to the end of the period P2 of the state C3 during the end of the settlement is the medal slot 42. If it is shorter than the time until the medal inserted from is detected by the passage detection sensor 89, the settlement is being completed by the time the medal inserted during the output of the second effect sound passes through the passage detection sensor 89. Since the medal may be detected by the passage detection sensor 89 after the period of C3 ends, as a result, it becomes possible to accept the insertion of the medal during the output of the second production sound. As in the form, the time P4 from the end of the output of the second production sound by the sub control board 72 to the end of the period P2 of the settlement end state C3 is set by the passage detection sensor when the medal is inserted from the medal insertion slot 42. If it is set longer than the time until it is detected by 89, the medal inserted during the output of the second effect sound can be completely invalidated without being accepted, and the player can decide whether or not to accept the insertion of the medal. It is possible to reliably avoid the deviation that may occur between the recognition of and the actual state of the slot machine M. Further, as a modification, as described above, the medal is detected by the insertion detection sensor 130 as the time P4 from the end of the output of the second effect sound to the end of the period P2 of the settlement ending state C3. It is conceivable to set it longer than the time until it is detected by the passage detection sensor 89. Even with such a modification, it is possible to avoid a deviation that may occur between the player's recognition and the actual state of the slot machine M regarding whether or not to accept the insertion of medals. Further, according to such a modification, the length of the time P4 can be defined based on the passing time of the medal from the insertion detection sensor 130 to the passage detection sensor 89, so that the shape of the medal insertion slot 42 or the like can be specified. Instead, the length of the time P4 can be uniformly determined based on the distance between the input detection sensor 130 and the passage detection sensor 89, which facilitates the design.

Even after the settlement is in progress C3 and the output of the second effect sound is completed (that is, even in the period P4), the sub-control board 72 displays the effect image through the liquid crystal display D or / /. And the output of the staging light through at least one of the lighting devices 33d, 34, 35, and 37 may be used to notify that the settlement is in the process of being completed C3. That is, for example, in the settlement ending state C3 (the settlement ending effect state C3'), the lighting devices 33d, 34, 35, 37 are illuminated in red during the output of the second effect sound (period P3), so that the settlement is completed. Along with notifying that the state is C3 being completed, the lighting device 33d is also in the state C3 in which the settlement is being completed (the effect state C3'in the process of being settled) and even after the output of the second effect sound is completed (period P4). , 34, 35, 37 may be illuminated in red to notify that the settlement is in the process of being completed C3. As a result, the settlement is completed, and the output of the second effect sound for notifying the fact is also completed, but the settlement is still in the process of being completed C3, and the medal acceptance is not permitted (the medal is not detected by the passage detection sensor 89). The player can recognize that the state). In other words, the sub-control board 72 has the same effect light during the notification of the effect sound and from the end of the notification of the effect sound to the end of the end of the settlement end state in the settlement end state C3. May be controlled so that is emitted. Further, the notification that the settlement is in progress through the liquid crystal display D or the lighting devices 33d, 34, 35, 37 is the end of the settlement end state C3 (the settlement end in effect state C3') (that is, the settlement end state C3'). It may end almost at the same time as the end of the period P4).

It should be noted that the staging light or staging image for notifying that the settlement is in progress C3 is the staging light or staging image for notifying that the staging is in progress C2 (the staging when the medal is actually paid out). It may be similar to or different from the light or staging image). For example, when the former effect light is lit in red on the lighting devices 33d, 34, 35, 37, the latter effect light may be lit in red on the lighting devices 33d, 34, 35, 37 (lighting of the same system color). Often, white lighting (lighting of a different system color) may be used. That is, the effect light or the effect image for notifying that the settlement is in the process of being completed is such that the player can recognize that the post-processing related to the settlement is being executed and the medal acceptance is not permitted yet. Just do it.

In general, when outputting an effect sound such as a voice related to the settlement process, especially when outputting a settlement end effect sound indicating that the settlement is completed at the end of the settlement process, which makes it easy for the player to be aware of the medal insertion, the medal. There may be a discrepancy between the player's recognition and the actual medal insertion acceptance state on the slot machine side regarding whether or not the insertion is accepted. The slot machine is provided with a medal selector that selectively guides medals inserted through the medal insertion slot by a blocker capable of removing medals from the medal passage to the medal payout opening side or the passage detection sensor side, and inserts medals. Medals and non-standard medals that have been inserted during a period other than the allowable insertion period are guided to the medal payout port by the blocker in the operating state (also referred to as a medal (game medium) acceptance disapproval state) and are allowed to be inserted. The medals within the standard inserted within the period are guided to the passage detection sensor by the blocker in the deactivated state, and the medal insertion is detected (also referred to as the medal (game medium) acceptance permission state). , When the settlement end effect sound is output after the settlement process is completed, it is generally easy for the player to recognize that the medal acceptance is not permitted during the settlement end effect sound output (until the settlement end effect sound stops), and therefore, this settlement end effect sound is output. If the slot machine M is in the medal acceptance permission state during the end effect sound output, the player who cannot recognize that the medal acceptance permission state is in the medal acceptance state and the slot machine M in which the medal acceptance permission state is actually in the medal acceptance state. There may be a time zone in which there is no agreement regarding whether or not to accept medals.
If the gaming machine accepts medals in such a situation that the player recognizes that the medal acceptance is not permitted, there is a risk of causing an unexpected disadvantage to the player. For example, if the player inserts a medal while the settlement end effect sound is being output, the gaming machine will accept the inserted medal and bet it. The player who recognizes that the medal acceptance is not permitted during the settlement end production sound output misunderstands that the inserted medal is returned from the medal payout side to the lower plate by the blocker. , The game may end without paying out the inserted medals by operating the checkout button. Such a situation impairs the interests of the player and is not desirable.

In the slot machine M according to the present embodiment, there is no discrepancy between the player's recognition and the actual game machine state regarding whether or not the game medium can be input. That is, after the settlement process based on the operation of the settlement operation unit (payment button 52) is completed, the acceptance of the game medium accompanied by the detection by the passage detection sensor 89 is permitted in the situation where the effect sound notifying the completion of the settlement process is output. Since the settlement is in the process of being completed, it is possible for the game machine to disallow the acceptance of the game media during the output of the effect sound, which is generally easily recognized by the player as the disapproval of the game medium. Therefore, it is possible to prevent a discrepancy between the player's recognition and the actual game machine state regarding whether or not to accept the input of the game medium. That is, it is possible to prevent the gaming machine from accepting the gaming medium in a situation where the player recognizes that the gaming medium is not permitted, and therefore, an unexpected accident due to the above-mentioned misidentification. You don't have to give profits to the player. In the above configuration, the "stored gaming medium" refers to a gaming medium that is at least electronically stored in the gaming machine in connection with the game.

Further, it is preferable that the output of the effect sound by the sub control means (sub control board 72) is completed within the period during which the settlement is being completed. According to this, it is possible to surely prevent the game medium acceptance permission state from being entered during the production sound output. Here, "the output of the effect sound by the sub-control means ends within the period of the end of settlement" means that the output of the effect sound by the sub-control means ends at the same time as the end of the period of the end of settlement. include.

Further, the time from the end of the output of the effect sound to the end of the settlement in progress state is the time from when the game medium is detected by the first sensor (input detection sensor 130) to the second sensor (passage detection sensor 89). ) Shall be longer than the time until it is detected. The time from the end of the output of the effect sound by the sub control means (sub control board 72) to the end of the settlement in progress state is the second time after the game medium is detected by the first sensor (input detection sensor 130). If it is shorter than the time until it is detected by the sensor (passage detection sensor 89), the gaming medium input during the effect sound output passes through the first sensor and then is detected by the second sensor. In the meantime, the period in which the settlement is being completed may end and the game medium may be detected by the second sensor. As a result, it becomes possible to accept the input of the game medium during the production sound output. However, the time from the end of the output of the effect sound by the sub control means (sub control board 72) to the end of the settlement in progress state is detected by the second sensor after the game medium is detected by the first sensor. If it is set longer than the time until the sound is output, the game medium input during the production sound output can be invalidated without being accepted, and the player's recognition regarding whether or not the input of the game medium can be accepted and the actual game machine It is possible to avoid possible deviations from the state.

As shown in FIG. 1, the effect panel 61 in the slot machine M is provided with an effect button 62 as an effect operation unit (first effect operation unit used for operations related to the effect) used for the effect. .. The effect button 62 may be provided on, for example, the operation unit 50 or the like. Further, the pressing portion of the effect button 62 is not limited to a circular shape, but may be a square shape or the like. Further, in the present embodiment, the effect operation unit is the effect button 62, but the effect operation unit is, for example, a lever capable of tilting operation, a touch panel capable of detecting touch (contact with a finger or the like), and shading by an object. Etc. may be used as a photoelectric sensor or the like capable of detecting the above.

Hereinafter, the term "3 stop" refers to an operation of pressing any one of the stop buttons 54, which is valid, in the state where any two of the stop buttons 54 are pressed in the game. In the present embodiment, for example, when the timing is such as a game place for the player, the sub-control board 72 is in a state where the effect button 62 can accept the pressing operation (that is, the pressing operation is enabled) after 3 stops. In the state of being done). At this time, the sub-control board 72 displays a screen to that effect on the liquid crystal display D and turns on the effect button 62.

Further, hereinafter, the operation panel 57 shown in FIG. 1 is referred to as a cross-shaped button 57 as an effect setting operation unit (a second effect operation unit used for an operation related to the effect). The cross-shaped button 57 is used for operations including setting of effects. The setting of the effect includes, for example, adjusting the volume, selecting a character, and the like.
The cross-shaped button 57 includes at least a main button arranged in the center and a selection button (direction operation button) arranged around the main button. The selection buttons include an up button, a left button, a down button, and a right button. The selection buttons may be composed of a plurality of buttons (the top, bottom, left, and right are independent) or may be integrated. Further, the effect setting operation unit is not limited to the cross button (cross key), and for example, one equipped with at least two buttons, one equipped with a main button and a jog dial, or a touch (touch of a finger or the like) is detected. It may be a possible touch panel or the like. When the cross button 57 (for example, the main button) is pressed during the non-game, the sub control board 72 displays the menu screen on the liquid crystal display D. In other words, the cross-shaped button 57 functions as a menu screen entry button. Further, when the cross button 57 (for example, the left and right buttons) is pressed during the non-game, the sub control board 72 displays the volume change screen on the liquid crystal display D. In other words, the cross-shaped button 57 functions as a volume change screen entry button.
From the menu screen, you can set the production mode (for example, set the character that mainly appears in the production, set the notification mode of winning a role or bonus, etc.), refer to the game history, and use the user terminal (player's smartphone). Etc.), and confirmation of the display mode of the winning combination is possible. Further, it may be possible to set the volume, the emission intensity of the lighting device, and the like from the menu screen. That is, the menu screen may also serve as the volume change screen.

When the main control board 70 detects that the settlement button 52 has been pressed, it transmits a settlement start command to the sub control board 72 and starts (executes) the settlement process (payout process).
When the sub control board (control means) 72 receives the settlement start command from the main control board 70, the sub control board (control means) 72 notifies the execution of the settlement process (payout of the game medium based on the operation of the settlement button 52). The sub-control board 72 displays a screen for notifying that the settlement is in progress (hereinafter referred to as a settlement in progress notification screen) on the liquid crystal display D as a notification of the execution of the settlement process, and also an effect of notifying that the settlement is in progress. A sound (hereinafter referred to as a payment notification sound: for example, a sound effect or a buzzer sound) is output via the speaker 14. Further, the sub control board 72 outputs (lights up) the staging light (hereinafter referred to as a checkout lamp: for example, red) indicating that the checkout is in progress through at least one of the lighting devices 33d, 34, 35, and 37. )do.

When the settlement process is completed, the main control board 70 transmits a settlement end command to the sub control board 72. Based on the fact that the sub-control board 72 receives the settlement end command from the main control board 70, the sub-control board 72 stops the notification of the execution of the settlement process and completes the settlement process (completion of the payout of the game medium based on the operation of the settlement button 52). Is notified. As a notification of the completion of the settlement process, the sub-control board 72 outputs an effect sound (hereinafter, referred to as a settlement completion voice) for notifying the completion of the settlement process via the speaker 14. As the settlement completion voice, for example, there is something like "payment completed". In the present embodiment, the sub-control board 72 displays the checkout notification screen and lights the checkout lamp as notification of the completion of the checkout process. The screen during the notification of the completion of the settlement process (the screen indicating the completion of the settlement) may be the same as or different from the screen during the settlement (the screen indicating the completion of the settlement).

Hereinafter, the period (period) during which the execution of the settlement process is notified is referred to as "payment notification in progress". During the settlement notification, the sub-control board 72 indicates the period from the reception of the settlement start command to the reception of the settlement end command. During this settlement notification, it can be said that the game medium is being paid out based on the operation of the settlement button 52.
Further, the period during which the completion of the payout of the game medium based on the operation of the settlement button 52 is notified, that is, the period during which the completion of the settlement process is notified (period) is referred to as "payment completion notification in progress". During the settlement completion notification, it refers to the period from the reception of the settlement end command to the end of the output of the settlement completion voice. During the settlement completion notification, after the settlement process is completed (after the sub-control board 72 receives the settlement end command), until the first sound of the settlement completion voice (for example, "se") is output. included. Further, the silence period P4 shown in FIG. 3 may be included in the settlement completion notification.

Next, using the timing chart shown in FIG. 6, a configuration example of the processing during and before and after the settlement processing will be described. Hereinafter, the "pressing operation" of the effect button 62, the cross button 57, the settlement button 52, etc. may be simply referred to as "pressing" or "operation".
(A5, A6) After 3 stops, the sub-control board 72 puts the effect button 62 in a state where it can be pressed (that is, a state in which the operation is valid), and a screen (operation) indicating that the effect button 62 can be pressed. The instruction screen) is displayed on the liquid crystal display D. Pressing the effect button 62 at this time triggers the progress of the effect, and when the effect button 62 is pressed, the result of the game is notified to the player. Specifically, for example, during a production in which a bonus is expected to be won (including a so-called pseudo-bonus (including a transition to an AT production state)), that is, in a production in which a player is expected to shift to an advantageous state. , The pressing of the effect button 62 becomes effective and the operation instruction screen is displayed, and when the effect button 62 is pressed, it is notified whether or not to shift to an advantageous state.
(A4) Since the game is in progress at the start of this timing chart, the cross-shaped button 57 is invalid.

(A1, A2) When the settlement button 52 is pressed, the main control board 70 sends a settlement start command to the sub control board 72 and starts the settlement process (payout process).
(A2, A3) The main control board 70 transmits a settlement end command to the sub control board 72 with the end of the settlement process, and the sub control board 72 receives the settlement end command from the main control board 70. , Starts the output of the settlement completion voice.

(A4) The sub-control board 72 invalidates the operation of the cross-shaped button 57 during the settlement notification and the settlement completion notification. That is, the sub control board 72 controls so that even if the cross-shaped button 57 is pressed, the press is not accepted during the settlement notification and the settlement completion notification. In other words, even if the cross-shaped button 57 is pressed during the settlement notification and the settlement completion notification, the menu screen and the volume change screen are not displayed on the liquid crystal display D (the menu screen and the volume change screen are not displayed). The sub-control board 72 enables the operation of the cross-shaped button 57 with the end of the output of the settlement completion voice (during settlement completion notification).

In this way, by disabling the operation of the cross-shaped button 57 during the settlement notification, it becomes impossible to grasp that the notification of the execution of the settlement process is blocked (interfered) by the operation of the cross-shaped button 57 and the settlement is in progress. Or, for example, the menu screen and the screen indicating that the payment is being made are displayed at the same time, and since the menu screen has a large amount of information (number of characters), the problem that it is difficult to grasp that the payment is being made is avoided. As a result, the player can surely grasp the notification of the execution of the settlement process, and can prevent the player from misidentifying (for example, recognizing as if the settlement was interrupted). In addition, if the menu screen is opened during the settlement notification, it becomes difficult for the surroundings to know that the settlement notification is in progress, and there is a risk of fraud using this, but such a problem can be avoided. can.
Further, by disabling the operation of the cross button 57 during the settlement completion notification, the notification of the completion of the settlement process is blocked (interfered) by the operation of the cross button 57, and the notification of the settlement completion cannot be grasped. For example, since the menu screen and the screen indicating the completion of settlement are displayed at the same time and the menu screen has a large amount of information (number of characters), the problem that the screen indicating the completion of settlement is difficult to grasp is avoided. As a result, the player can surely grasp the notification of the completion of the settlement process, and can prevent the player from misidentifying (for example, recognizing as if the settlement was interrupted). In addition, if the menu screen is opened during the settlement completion notification, it becomes difficult for the surroundings to know that the settlement completion notification is in progress, and there is a risk of fraud using this, but such a problem is avoided. be able to.

(A5, A6) The sub-control board 72 displays a screen on the liquid crystal display D indicating that the effect button 62 can be pressed even when the settlement button 52 is pressed and the settlement notification and the settlement completion notification are in progress. At the same time, the effect button 62 remains valid. In other words, when the effect button 62 is pressed during the settlement notification or the settlement completion notification, the sub control board 72 accepts the pressing. Further, the effect button 62 is valid even after the settlement completion notification is completed. That is, when the effect button 62 is activated with the 3 stops as an opportunity, the activation of the effect button 62 is not canceled even if the settlement process is started and the settlement is completed.
If the effect button 62 is pressed during the settlement notification or the settlement completion notification, the effect proceeds, but during this period, the liquid crystal display D displays that the settlement is being executed or the settlement is completed. .. At this time, the display related to the settlement is prioritized, and the display related to the settlement hides a part of the effect related to the game.

As described above, by enabling the operation of the effect button 62 without invalidating it during the settlement notification, the player can press the effect button 62 to proceed with the effect. Therefore, the player does not have dissatisfaction due to the inability to press the effect button 62 during the settlement notification. For example, when the pressing instruction screen of the effect button 62 is displayed, the player may want to press the effect button 62 and see the result of the game before standing up, but the settlement notification is in progress. However, since the effect button 62 is enabled, it becomes possible to smoothly proceed with the effect during the settlement notification and stand up after seeing the result. Since the press instruction screen does not have a large amount of information (number of characters) like the menu screen, it indicates that payment is in progress, but even if it is displayed at the same time as the screen, the player does not misidentify it.
Further, by enabling the operation of the effect button 62 without invalidating it during the settlement completion notification, the player can press the effect button 62 to proceed with the effect. Therefore, the player does not have dissatisfaction due to the inability to press the effect button 62 during the settlement completion notification. For example, when the pressing instruction screen for the effect button 62 is displayed, the player may want to press the effect button 62 and see the result of the game before leaving the seat, but the settlement completion notification is in progress. However, since the effect button 62 is enabled, it becomes possible to smoothly proceed with the effect during the settlement completion notification and to stand up after seeing the result. Since the pressing instruction screen does not have a large amount of information (number of characters) like the menu screen, the player does not misidentify it even if it is displayed at the same time as the screen indicating the completion of payment.

The sub-control board 72 turns off the effect button 62 while enabling the operation of the effect button 62 during the settlement notification or the settlement completion notification. That is, the effect button 62 is turned on, and the effectiveness of the operation is not positively notified, but when it is pressed, the press is accepted. By doing so, it is basically not recommended to proceed with the effect during the settlement notification or the settlement completion notification, but if the effect button 62 is pressed, the player's intention is prioritized. It will be possible to proceed with the production. The sub-control board 72 may turn on the effect button 62 while enabling the operation of the effect button 62 during the settlement notification or the settlement completion notification.

FIG. 6 shows a case where the settlement button 52 is pressed while the effect button 62 is not pressed. FIG. 7 describes a configuration example in which the effective effect button 62 is pressed after 3 stops and the settlement button 52 is pressed while the effect based on the press of the effect button 62 is being executed. ..

(B4, B5) The sub control board 72 displays a screen indicating that the effect button 62 can be pressed on the liquid crystal display D, and enables the effect button 62.
(B6, B7, B8) When the activated effect button 62 is pressed, the sub-control board 72 starts outputting the (corresponding) liquid crystal effect and voice effect based on the press of the effect button 62. Specifically, the sub-control board 72 displays an effect image based on the pressing of the effect button 62 on the liquid crystal display D, and also displays a voice effect (BGM, dialogue, sound effect, etc.) based on the press of the effect button 62 as a speaker. Output via 14. The sub-control board 72 may output the staging light based on the pressing of the staging button 62 through at least one of the lighting devices 33d, 34, 35, and 37.

(B1, B2) When the settlement button 52 is pressed, the main control board 70 sends a settlement start command to the sub control board 72 and starts the settlement process.
(B1, B7, B8) When the settlement button 52 is pressed during the output of the liquid crystal display and the voice effect based on the pressing of the effect button 62, the sub control board 72 receives the settlement start command from the main control board 70. Based on this, the output of the audio effect is stopped. However, the sub-control board 72 does not stop (continue) the output of the liquid crystal display even if it receives the settlement start command.

(B2, B3) The main control board 70 transmits a settlement end command to the sub control board 72 with the end of the settlement process, and the sub control board 72 receives the settlement end command from the main control board 70. , Starts the output of the settlement completion voice.

(B8) The sub-control board 72 starts outputting a voice effect (voice effect based on pressing the effect button 62) with the end of the output of the settlement completion sound (waiting for the end of the output of the settlement completion sound). While the output of the audio effect is stopped, the sub control board 72 does not output the sound to the outside, and executes the audio effect behind the output of the settlement completed audio (the layer behind the settlement completed audio). ing. That is, when the sub-control board 72 receives the settlement start command during the output of the voice effect based on the pressing of the effect button 62, the sub-control board 72 is in a state of executing the sound effect but not outputting the sound, and the output of the settlement completed sound ends. Then, it is controlled to output the sound of the voice effect again. It can be said that the audio production is flying.

In this way, if the settlement process is executed while the audio effect based on the pressing of the effect button 62 is being output, the output of the audio effect is stopped, and the notification regarding the settlement (the notification sound during the settlement and the settlement completion sound) is displayed. By giving priority to the output, the player can grasp that the settlement process is being executed via the sound. However, since the liquid crystal display based on the pressing of the effect button 62 is continued even while the settlement notification sound and the settlement completion sound are being output, the player must visually proceed with the effect. Can be grasped.

FIG. 7 shows a case where the effective effect button 62 is pressed and the settlement button 52 is pressed while the effect based on the press of the effect button 62 is being executed. FIG. 21 shows a case where the settlement button 52 is pressed first and the effect button 62 is pressed while the settlement process is being executed.

(G4, G5) The sub control board 72 displays a screen indicating that the effect button 62 can be pressed on the liquid crystal display D, and enables the effect button 62.
(G1, G2) When the settlement button 52 is pressed, the main control board 70 sends a settlement start command to the sub control board 72 and starts the settlement process.

(G6, G7, G8) If the effect button 62 in the enabled state is pressed while the settlement process is being executed, the sub-control board 72 receives the information (signal) to that effect, and the effect button 62 The output of the liquid crystal display based on the pressing of is started. At this time, the sub control board 72 does not output the audio effect based on the pressing of the effect button 62. This "do not output the audio effect" is included in "stop the output of the audio effect". In other words, even if the sub-control board 72 receives the information (signal) that the effect button 62 is pressed while the notification related to the settlement (during the settlement notification and the settlement completion notification) is being executed, the voice is voiced. No production is output. That is, the notification regarding the settlement is prioritized over the voice effect based on the pressing of the effect button 62.

(G2, G3) The main control board 70 transmits a settlement end command to the sub control board 72 with the end of the settlement process, and the sub control board 72 receives the settlement end command from the main control board 70. , Starts the output of the settlement completion voice.
(G8) The sub-control board 72 starts the output of the audio effect with the end of the output of the settlement completion voice (waiting for the end of the output of the settlement completion voice). While the output of the audio effect is stopped, the sub control board 72 does not output the sound to the outside, and executes the audio effect behind the output of the settlement completed audio (the layer behind the settlement completed audio). ing. That is, even if the sub-control board 72 receives a signal indicating that the effect button 62 is pressed while the notification regarding the settlement is being executed, the sub-control board 72 executes the sound effect until the output of the settlement completion sound is completed. The sound is not output, and when the output of the settlement completion voice is completed, the sound of the voice effect is controlled to be output.

In the examples of FIGS. 7 and 21, in order to "prioritize" the settlement completion voice over the voice of the voice production, not only when the voice of the voice production is silenced, but also the voice of the voice production is compared with the voice of the payment completion. It includes making it smaller and outputting (flowing) it.

Next, a case where an error occurs during "payment" will be described.
First, each error detected (detected) by the main control board 70 will be described. Although not shown, the main control board 70 includes an error detecting means and an error management means. The error detection means is based on the signal status of various sensors, such as backflow error, empty error, payout jam error, payout error error, over error, retention error, backup error, door open error, input error error, display judgment error error. , RAM error error, set value error error is detected.

(1) The backflow error is an error caused by the backflow of the medal in the flow path.
(2) The empty error is an error caused by the fact that the medals stored in the hopper device 150 are exhausted. Specifically, it is detected when the signal state of the payout sensor is off (a state in which the medal to be paid out is not detected) and continues for a certain period (about 2100 ms) or more in a situation where medals are paid out. It is an error.
(3) The payout jam error is an error caused by the medals to be paid out in the hopper device 150 being jammed and not ejected. Specifically, in a situation where medals are being paid out, the signal state of the payout sensor (payout medal switch) is on (a state in which the medal to be paid out is detected) and continues for a certain period (about 172 ms) or more. This is an error detected when.

(4) The payout abnormality error is an error caused by the medal being paid out in a situation where the medal should not be paid out. Specifically, it is an error detected when the signal state of the payout sensor (payout medal switch) continues for a certain period (about 6 ms) or more in the on state in the situation where the medal is not paid out.
(5) The over error is an error caused by the excess medals stored in the cash box exceeding a predetermined amount. Specifically, it is an error detected when the signal state of the overflow sensor is on (a signal state indicating that the surplus medals exceed a predetermined amount) and continues for a certain period (about 100 ms) or more.
(6) The retention error is an error caused by the medals being jammed in the medal selector 92. Specifically, the signal state of the first medal passing sensor or the second medal passing sensor, which is downstream of the insertion detection sensor 130 and upstream of the blocker 99, is on (indicating that the presence of a medal is detected). It is an error detected when it continues for a certain period (about 113 ms) or more in the signal state).

(7) The backup error is an error caused by a problem in the backup of the RWM. Specifically, it is an error detected when an RWM backup abnormality is detected when the power is turned on. Alternatively, it is an error detected when the saved value of the stack pointer is not in a specific range when the power is turned on.
(8) The door opening error is an error caused by the lower door 40 (front door 3) being opened. Specifically, it is detected when the signal state of the door open / close switch operated by opening the lower door 40 continues for a certain period (about 48 ms) or more in the on state (signal state indicating that the lower door 40 is open). It is an error to be done.

(9) The insertion error error is that the medal is a regular flow path (here, medal payment) even though the flow path of the medal is switched by operating the blocker 99 to block the flow path to the medal chute. This is an error caused by passing through a flow path different from the flow path returned to the exit. Specifically, it is an error detected when the second medal passage sensor detects a medal flowing toward the medal shoot after passing through the medal selector 92 after the blocker 99 is activated. In the gaming machine of the present embodiment, an error is detected when the second medal passing sensor is turned on after a certain period (about 250 ms) or more has elapsed since the blocker 99 is closed.
In addition, there is a shoot error in the input abnormality error. The shoot error is an error caused by a difference of a certain amount or more between the number of medals that have passed the medal selector 92 and the number of medals that have passed the medal shoot. Specifically, the first medal passing sensor and the second medal passing sensor are used between the time when the inserted medals pass through the first medal passing sensor and the second medal passing sensor in the correct order until a certain period of time elapses. The difference between the number of medals detected to have passed in the correct order and the number of times the signal state of the shoot sensor is turned on (the signal state detecting the presence of medals) is not within the predetermined range. In the case, or when a certain period of time has passed since the inserted medals passed through the first medal passing sensor and the second medal passing sensor in the correct order, the first medal passing sensor and the second medal passing sensor are passed in the correct order. It is detected when the difference between the number of medals detected as passing and the number of times the signal state of the shoot sensor is turned on (the signal state detecting the existence of the medal) becomes a predetermined number or more. This is an error.
In addition, there is an input detection error in the input abnormality error. The insertion detection error is an error caused by the medals being jammed near the medal insertion slot 42. Specifically, it is an error detected when the insertion detection sensor 130 in the medal selector 92 continues for a certain period (about 602 ms) or more in the ON state (signal state detecting the existence of the medal).

(10) The display determination abnormality error is an error detected when a symbol that is not a winning combination is displayed.
(11) The RAM abnormality error is an error detected when the RAM is read / written normally.
(12) The set value abnormality error is an error detected when the set value is out of the permissible range at the time of internal lottery.

As shown in FIG. 8, each error is assigned an error code from E1 to EC according to the type of error. When an error is detected by the error detecting means, the error management means executes a process of notifying the detected error via the liquid crystal display D or the main display (display unit 58 in FIG. 1). Specifically, the error management means sets an error code corresponding to the type of the detected error, and displays the set error code on the liquid crystal display D or the main display (display unit 58 in FIG. 1). Let me.

Further, the error management means performs a release process for clearing the error detection flag or the like based on the predetermined release operation (error release operation). The predetermined release operation (error release operation) includes, for example, an operation of inserting the door key into the door key cylinder and rotating (twisting) the door key counterclockwise, and an operation of pressing the setting change button. As shown in FIG. 8, an error canceling operation is set for each error type (error codes E1 to EC). When a signal is input from the setting change button or the door sensor by the error cancellation operation, the error management means determines that the error cancellation operation has been performed, and clears the information related to the error such as the error detection flag and the timing information of the timer ( Performs the release process.

When the main control board 70 detects an error, it transmits a command (error command) indicating that an error has occurred to the sub control board 72. When the sub control board 72 receives an error command from the main control device 70, the sub control board 72 controls to display an image corresponding to the error occurrence content (hereinafter referred to as an error screen) on the liquid crystal display D, and a warning sound corresponding to the error occurrence (hereinafter referred to as an error screen). Hereinafter, an error sound) is controlled to be output via the speaker 14.

Using the timing chart shown in FIG. 9, a configuration example of processing when an error occurs during settlement notification will be described. In the following, a case where a backflow error occurs as an error will be described, but other errors may be used.
(C1, C2) When the settlement button 52 is pressed, the main control board 70 sends a settlement start command to the sub control board 72 and starts the settlement process.
(C4) When the main control board 70 detects a backflow error (when the conditions for the backflow error are satisfied), the main control board 70 transmits a command indicating that a backflow error has occurred (backflow error command) to the sub control board 72.

(C2, C5) Even if the sub control board 72 receives the settlement start command and the error command (backflow error command), the backflow error command is received until the settlement end command is received from the main control board 70. Does not perform processing based on the reception of.
The sub control board 72 executes a process based on the reception of the backflow error command based on the reception of the settlement end command from the main control board 70. The sub-control board 72 notifies the backflow error as a process based on the reception of the backflow error command. The sub-control board 72 displays a screen corresponding to the backflow error (backflow error screen) on the liquid crystal display D as a notification of the backflow error, and outputs a warning sound (error sound) corresponding to the backflow error via the speaker 14. Then, an effect light (hereinafter referred to as an error lamp: for example, red) for notifying that an error is occurring is output (lighted) through at least one of the lighting devices 33d, 34, 35, and 37.

In this way, even if the sub control board 72 receives the settlement end command from the main control board 70, if the error command is received first, the processing based on the error command (error notification) is prioritized. conduct. Then, as shown below, the sub-control board 72 performs a process (output of the settlement completion voice) based on the settlement end command after the error is cleared.

(C6) When an error clearing operation (error recovery process) corresponding to a backflow error is input (executed) by an operator or the like, the main control board 70 receives a command (backflow error clearing) indicating that the backflow error has been cleared. The command) is transmitted to the sub control board 72.
(C3, C5) The sub-control board 72 stops the notification of the backflow error and starts the output of the settlement completion voice (“settlement”) based on the reception of the backflow error release command. The sub-control board 72 shifts the display of the liquid crystal display D from the error screen to the normal screen, stops the output of the error sound, and turns off the error lamp as the notification of the backflow error is stopped. The sub-control board 72 may display a screen indicating the completion of settlement while the settlement completion voice is being output (during settlement completion notification), and then display a normal screen. Further, the sub-control board 72 may turn off the error lamp and turn on the settlement lamp during the settlement completion notification. In that case, for example, when the lighting pattern (lighting color) of the error lamp and the checkout lamp is the same, there is no apparent change.

Regarding C3, C5, and C6, the error notification is stopped at the rising edge of error cancellation and the output of the settlement completion voice is started, but these may be performed based on the falling edge of error cancellation.

In this way, when an error (for example, a backflow error) occurs during the settlement notification, the player is surely aware that the settlement has been completed because the error occurrence is notified after waiting for the settlement process to be completed. can. In other words, it is possible to prevent the player from misidentifying (for example, having the perception that the settlement has been interrupted). On the other hand, since the notification of the occurrence of an error is prioritized over the output of the settlement completion voice, the time from the occurrence of the error to the notification of the error can be further shortened, and the error can be dealt with at an early stage. .. Further, if the configuration is such that the occurrence of an error is notified during the settlement notification, the processing becomes complicated, but if the above-mentioned configuration is used, such processing is not complicated.

The process for notifying the occurrence of an error after the settlement process is completed and then outputting the settlement completion voice is not limited to the above-mentioned process. For example, in the above example, even if the sub control board 72 receives the error command, the sub control board 72 does not execute the process based on the reception of the error command until the settlement end command is received from the main control board 70. If an error occurs during the settlement process, the main control board 70 may send an error command to the sub control board 72 after the settlement process is completed. Further, the main control board 70 may transmit the settlement end command to the sub control board 72 after the error is cleared (after the error clear command is transmitted).

Next, using the timing chart shown in FIG. 10, a configuration example of processing when an error occurs during the settlement completion notification will be described.
(D1, D2) When the settlement button 52 is pressed, the main control board 70 sends a settlement start command to the sub control board 72 and starts the settlement process.
(D7) The sub control board 72 shifts the display of the liquid crystal display D from the normal screen to the checkout notification screen based on the reception of the settlement start command from the main control board 70.

(D2, D3) The main control board 70 transmits a settlement end command to the sub control board 72 with the end of the settlement process, and the sub control board 72 receives the settlement end command from the main control board 70. , Starts the output of the settlement completion voice.

(D4) When the main control board 70 detects a backflow error, it transmits a backflow error command to the sub control board 72.
(D3, D5) When the sub-control board 72 receives a backflow error command from the main control board 70 while executing the output of the settlement completion voice (that is, during the settlement completion notification), the sub-control board 72 makes a settlement based on the reception. Stop (cancel) the output of the completion voice ("payment") (for example, stop at "payment") and notify the backflow error. Specifically, the sub-control board 72 displays a backflow error screen on the liquid crystal display D, outputs an error sound, and turns on the error lamp.

(D6) When an error canceling operation corresponding to a backflow error is input (executed) by an operator or the like, the main control board 70 transmits a backflow error canceling command to the sub control board 72.
(D5, D7) The sub-control board 72 stops the notification of the backflow error (stops the output of the error sound and turns off the error lamp) based on the reception of the backflow error release command, and displays the liquid crystal display D. Move from the error screen to the normal screen.
(D3) In this example, even if the sub-control board 72 recovers from the error (even if the backflow error release command is received), the output of the settlement completion voice stopped according to the reception of the backflow error command is restarted (D3). Output) is not done. However, the sub-control board 72 may output the settlement completion voice together with the error recovery (shift to the normal screen). In that case, the sub-control board 72 may output the settlement completion voice from the beginning again instead of from the stopped location.

In D5 and D6, the error notification is stopped at the rising edge of error cancellation, but the error notification may be stopped at the falling edge of error cancellation.
Further, in D6 and D7, the transition to the normal screen is made at the falling edge of error cancellation, but the transition to the normal screen may be made at the rising edge of error cancellation.

In this way, if an error (for example, a backflow error) occurs during the settlement completion notification, the error occurrence notification is notified without waiting for the output of the settlement completion voice to end (even during the output of the settlement completion voice). Prioritize. That is, the notification of the error having a higher priority (urgency) is output with priority over the settlement completion voice. As a result, it is possible to take countermeasures against errors at an early stage. That is, it is possible to prevent the processing for the error from being delayed.

In D3 and D4, the case where an error occurs while the settlement completion voice is output is shown, but after the settlement processing is completed (after the settlement end command is received), the first sound of the settlement completion voice (for example). An error may occur before "se") is output. Even in such a case, the sub-control board 72 does not output the settlement completion voice (stops the output), and executes the error notification. That is, the sub-control board 72 gives priority to the notification of the error over the output of the settlement completion voice.

Next, using the timing chart shown in FIG. 11, a configuration example of processing when the cross-shaped button 57 is pressed during the settlement completion notification will be described.
(F1, F2) When the settlement button 52 is pressed, the main control board 70 sends a settlement start command to the sub control board 72 and starts the settlement process.
(F4, F7) The sub control board 72 stops lighting the lamp during the game (for example, white) and turns on the lamp during settlement (for example, red) based on receiving the settlement start command from the main control board 70. Start. In this embodiment, the lighting of the checkout lamp and the lighting of the error lamp have the same pattern.

(F2, F3) The main control board 70 transmits a settlement end command to the sub control board 72 with the end of the settlement process, and the sub control board 72 receives the settlement end command from the main control board 70. , Starts the output of the settlement completion voice.

(F3, F5) The sub-control board 72 accepts the operation (pressing) when the cross-shaped button 57 is operated (pressed) while the settlement completion voice is being output (that is, during the settlement completion notification). In this example, the sub-control board 72 enables the operation of the cross-shaped button 57 during the settlement completion notification (that is, from the reception of the settlement completion command to the end of the output of the settlement completion voice). Then, when the sub-control board 72 receives the information (signal) (command) indicating that the cross-shaped button 57 is pressed while executing the output of the settlement completion voice, the settlement completion voice is based on the reception. Stop the output of (for example, stop at "Settlement").

(F5, F6, F7) Further, when the sub-control board 72 receives information (signal) (command) indicating that the cross-shaped button 57 is pressed while executing the output of the settlement completion voice, the sub-control board 72 is concerned. Based on the reception, the checkout lamp is turned off and the game play lamp is turned on, and the display of the liquid crystal display D is shifted from the checkout notification screen to the menu screen (note that the volume change screen may be used). That is, when the sub-control board 72 receives the information indicating that the cross-shaped button 57 has been pressed while executing the output of the settlement completion voice, the sub-control board 72 performs a process based on the pressing of the cross-shaped button 57 based on the reception. conduct.

In F3 and F5, the case where the cross-shaped button 57 is pressed while the settlement completion voice is being output is shown, but after the settlement processing is completed, the first sound (for example, "se") of the settlement completion voice is heard. The cross-shaped button 57 may be pressed before it is output. Even in such a case, the sub-control board 72 does not output the settlement completion voice (stops the output), and executes the process based on the pressing of the cross-shaped button 57. That is, the sub-control board 72 gives priority to the process based on the pressing of the cross-shaped button 57 over the output of the settlement completion voice.

Further, for F5 and F6, the menu screen is shifted to the rising edge of the cross-shaped button 57, but the menu screen may be shifted to the menu screen at the rising edge of the cross-shaped button 57.

In this way, when the cross-shaped button 57 is operated during the settlement completion notification, the operation of the cross-shaped button 57 is accepted without waiting for the output of the settlement completion voice to end (even during the output of the settlement completion voice). Since the operation of the cross-shaped button 57 is prioritized) and the processing based on the operation (transition to the menu screen, etc.) is executed, for example, the player opens the menu screen early without listening to the settlement completion voice to the end. The desired settings can be made. That is, it is possible to prevent the player from being dissatisfied (feeling stress) because the cross-shaped button 57 cannot be operated without waiting for the output of the settlement completion voice to finish.

Here, the broken line portion Z in F4 of FIG. 11 will be described. The broken line portion Z indicates the lighting of the checkout lamp that was originally scheduled to be executed. Here, suppose that the cross-shaped button 57 is not pressed during the settlement completion voice output. In that case, even after the output of the settlement completion voice (“payment completed”) is completed, the lamp during settlement continues to be lit for a certain period of time. In other words, the sub-control board 72 outputs the settlement completion voice and lights the settlement lamp, which is a notification of the completion of the settlement process, but the latter (during settlement) even after the former (output of the settlement completion voice) is completed. (Lamp lighting) is continued for a certain period of time. The sub-control board 72 shifts the screen (liquid crystal display D) to the normal screen when the settlement completion voice output ends. In this way, by making the lighting of the settlement lamp longer than the output of the settlement completion voice, it is possible to recognize that the settlement process is completed for a certain period of time after the settlement process is completed. That is, after the settlement process is completed, the surroundings are notified that the settlement process has been completed for a certain period of time, so that, for example, the hall staff or the like can easily recognize it.

(Second embodiment)
Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Hereinafter, configurations having the same or equivalent functions as those described in the first embodiment are designated by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof will be omitted or simplified.

FIG. 12 is an external perspective view of the slot machine (game machine) 100 according to the second embodiment. As shown in FIG. 12, the slot machine 100 includes a box-shaped housing 111 having an opening on the front side, which is a surface facing the player side, and a front door 112 that opens and closes the front side opening of the housing 111. ing.
The housing 111 houses a reel unit in which a rotatable reel 120a, a reel 120b, and a reel 120c are unitized, a hopper device for paying out medals, and the like. Further, the front door 112 is divided into an upper door 112a and a lower door 112b, and the upper door 112a and the lower door 112b can be opened and closed with respect to the housing 111, respectively.
FIG. 13 is an external perspective view showing a state in which the upper door 112a and the lower door 112b are opened.

Hereinafter, "front and back" means "front" on the player side and "rear" on the slot machine side when the player is on the front side of the slot machine 100, and "upper and lower" means the upper surface side of the slot machine 100. In "upper", the lower surface side means "lower", and "left and right" means "left" on the left hand side of the player playing the slot machine 100, and "right" on the right hand side.

The upper door 112a is provided with a liquid crystal display 113, an effect device such as a speaker 114, and a display window 116. Images (moving images, still images) for various effects are displayed on the liquid crystal display 113. Further, sounds for various effects (music, sound effects, voice, etc.) are output from the speaker 114. In addition to the liquid crystal display 113 and the speaker 114, the effect device may include an illumination device such as a lamp (LED), a movable accessory that can be operated by an actuator, or the like.

As shown in FIG. 13, the reel unit is arranged behind the display window 116 so that a part thereof can be visually recognized from the outside of the display window 116. A plurality of types of symbols are arranged in a row on the outer peripheral surfaces of the reels 120a to 120c. When each of the reels 120a to 120c is stopped, three symbols (upper symbol, middle symbol, lower symbol) can be visually recognized per reel through the display window 116. The display window 116 is provided with an upper stage, a middle stage, and a lower stage as display positions for visually recognizing the symbols of the reels 120a to 120c, and an effective line is set by the combination of the display positions of the reels 120a to 120c. There is.

In the slot machine 100, the number (specified number) of game media (medals) required to start one game (one game) is set. In this embodiment, the specified number is 3. When a specified number of medals are inserted into the slot machine 100, the valid line is activated. When the number of medals exceeding the specified number is inserted, the number of medals exceeding the specified number is limited to a predetermined value (for example, 50) and is inside the slot machine 100 (main RAM 203 shown in FIG. 14). ) Is electrically stored.

In the slot machine 100, the reels 120a to 120c start to rotate with the start of the game, and the winning combination lottery is executed to determine whether the winning combination is won or not. Next, when each reel 120a to 120c is stopped, if the symbol combination corresponding to the winning combination won in the winning combination lottery is displayed on the valid line, this winning combination becomes a prize, and the process corresponding to the winning combination is won. (Winning process) is executed.

In the lower door 112b, a medal insertion slot 122 for inserting medals, a bet button 123 for betting stored (credit) medals, a start lever 124 operated when starting a game, and a rotating start lever 124 are provided. Stop buttons 126a, 126b, 126c for stopping the reels 120a, 120b, 120c, a payout port 127 for paying out medals by a hopper device, and a medal tray 128 for receiving medals paid out from the payout port 127 are provided. .. Further, behind the medal insertion slot 122, a medal sensor 129 (see FIG. 2) for detecting the passage of medals inserted from the medal insertion slot 122 is provided.
When the bet button 123, the start lever 124, and the stop buttons 126a to 126c detect an operation, they output a signal indicating that the operation has been performed. Further, when the medal sensor 129 detects the insertion of a medal, it outputs a signal indicating that the medal has been inserted. The bet button 123 includes a 1-bet button and a MAX bet button. The 1-bet button is a button pressed when betting one medal from the stored medals. The MAX bet button is a button pressed when betting a specified number of medals from the stored medals. Hereinafter, the term "bet button 123" refers to either a 1-bet button or a MAX bet button.

Here, one game will be described.
In the slot machine 100, when a medal is inserted through the medal insertion slot 122 or a specified number of medals are bet by operating the bet button 123, the operation of the bet button 123 is invalidated and the start lever 124 is operated. Is enabled.
Next, when the slot machine 100 receives the operation of the activated start lever 124, the game is started (that is, the rotation of each reel 120a to 120c is started), and the winning combination lottery is performed.
Next, the slot machine 100 activates the operation of the stop buttons 126a to 126c when the rotation speed of each reel 120a to 120c reaches a constant speed and becomes a steady rotation.
Next, when the slot machine 100 receives the operation of the activated stop buttons 126a to 126c, the slot machine 100 stops the rotation of the reels 200a to 200c corresponding to the operated stop buttons 126a to 126c.
Next, the slot machine 100 determines whether or not the symbol combination corresponding to the winning combination won in the winning combination lottery is displayed on the valid line when the rotation of each reel 120a to 120c is stopped.

When the slot machine 100 determines that the symbol combination corresponding to the winning combination won in the winning combination lottery is displayed on the valid line, the slot machine 100 executes a winning process (for example, a medal payout process) and ends one game.
On the other hand, when the slot machine 100 determines that the result of the winning combination lottery is unsuccessful, or that the winning combination won in the winning combination lottery is not won, the slot machines 100 stop when each reel 120a to 120c is stopped. End the game. When one game is completed, the operation of the bet button 123 is activated.

Further, as shown in FIG. 13, a power switch 500 for turning on / off the power of the slot machine 100 is provided inside the housing 111. The power switch 500 is operated by an administrator or the like who manages the slot machine 100, and is used to switch between two states, a power OFF state (power cut state) and a power ON state. When the power switch 500 receives an operation for turning on the power, the power switch 500 outputs a power ON signal. Further, when the power switch 500 receives an operation for turning off the power, the power switch 500 outputs a power off signal.

FIG. 14 is a block diagram for showing the electrical configuration of the slot machine 100.
Inside the housing 111, a main control board (main control device) 200 and a sub control board (sub control device) 300 are provided. The main control board 200 acquires signals output from the bet button 123, the start lever 124, the stop buttons 126a to 126c, the medal sensor 129, the power switch 500, etc., performs various calculations for executing the game, and performs the calculations. The reel unit, hopper device, etc. are controlled based on the result.

The sub control board 300 performs various calculations for executing the effect based on the signal acquired from the main control board 200, and controls the effect device such as the liquid crystal display 113 and the speaker 114 based on the calculation result.

The main control board 200 and the sub control board 300 are electrically connected to each other, and various information (signals) such as information indicating a game state can be transmitted from the main control board 200 to the sub control board 300. Information cannot be transmitted from the sub control board 300 to the main control board 200. The functions of each board such as the main control board 200 and the sub control board 300 are stored in advance in various processors (CPU, DSP, etc.), ICs, hardware such as information storage media such as ROM and RAM, and ROM and the like. It is realized by software consisting of a predetermined program.

As shown in FIG. 14, in the present embodiment, the main control board 200 includes a main CPU 201 which is a central processing unit, a main ROM 202 in which a program or the like is stored, a main RAM 203 (main storage unit) which functions as a work area, and the like. It has various semiconductor integrated circuits including. A backup power supply (not shown) is connected to the main RAM 203 (built-in RAM), and even if the power is turned off, it is stored unless the settings are changed and the initialization process of the main RAM 203 is executed. The data is retained without being erased. The main RAM 203 may be composed of an internal RAM and an external RAM so that the backup data is stored in the backup area of the external RAM. In this case, a backup power supply (not shown) is connected to the external RAM. When recovering from the power failure after the power is turned off, the built-in RAM reads the backup data stored in the backup area of the external RAM and returns to the state before the power failure.

The main control board 200 has a functional unit in which the main CPU 201 functions by cooperating with the main RAM 203 based on a program stored in the main ROM 202. The functional unit includes a bet control unit 210 and the like, which will be described later.

Further, as shown in FIG. 14, in the present embodiment, the sub control board 300 is a sub CPU 301 which is a central processing device, a sub ROM 302 in which a program or the like is stored, and a sub RAM 303 (sub storage unit) which functions as a work area. It has various semiconductor integrated circuits including. Further, similarly to the main RAM 203, a backup power supply (not shown) is connected to the sub RAM 303, and even when the power supply is turned off, the data is retained without being erased.

The sub control board 300 functions by the sub CPU 301 collaborating with the sub RAM 303 based on the program stored in the sub ROM 302.

Next, the bet control unit 210 of the main control board 200 will be described.
The bet control unit 210 performs a process of invalidating the operation of the bet button 123 based on the bet of a predetermined number of medals for each game, and a process of enabling the game start operation for the start lever 124. conduct.

Further, when the bet button 123 is pressed, the bet control unit 210 sets the stored medals to the inserted state (bet state) up to the specified number. Hereinafter, setting a medal in a betting state is simply referred to as betting a medal.

When the main control board 200 acquires a signal (bet operation information) indicating that the bet button 123 is pressed while the power is on, the input current state of the main RAM 203 is set to the “ON state”. The input current state is information indicating whether or not the current bet button 123 is in the operating state, that is, whether or not the bet button 123 is currently being operated. When the bet button 123 is currently pressed, the input current state is "ON state". On the other hand, when the bet button 123 is currently not pressed, that is, when the main control board 200 has not acquired the bet operation information, the input current state is "OFF state". The input current state is information used in the edge detection process described later.

As shown in FIG. 14, the bet control unit 210 includes an edge detection unit 211, a bet setting unit 212, an information control unit 213, and the like.
The edge detection unit 211 periodically waits at regular intervals (for example, 1.49 ms) from the time when the operation of the bet button 123 is enabled until the operation of the bet button 123 is invalidated (bet acceptance period). Performs edge detection processing, which is processing (timer interrupt).

In the edge detection process, the ON edge is detected when the information indicating the operation state of the bet button 123 corresponds to a predetermined condition. Specifically, the input previous state and the input current state, which will be described later, are compared, and as shown in the thick line frame in FIG. 15A, the input previous state is the “OFF state” and the input current state is. When it is in the "ON state" (when the ON edge detection condition is satisfied), the ON edge (rising edge) is detected. The edge detection process includes an update process described later.

Further, as shown in FIG. 15A, when the previous input state is the “OFF state” and the current input state is the “OFF state” (when the ON edge detection condition is not applicable), the input is turned ON. No edges are detected. Further, when the input previous state is "ON state" and the input current state is "OFF state" (when the ON edge detection condition is not applicable), the ON edge is not detected. Further, when the input previous state is "ON state" and the input current state is "ON state" (when the ON edge detection condition is not applicable), the ON edge is not detected.

The bet setting unit 212 bets a medal when an ON edge is detected by the edge detection process performed by the edge detection unit 211. Specifically, the bet setting unit 212 bets one medal when the ON edge based on the pressing of the 1-bet button is detected, and when the ON edge based on the pressing of the MAX bet button is detected, the bet setting unit 212 bets. Bets the specified number (3) of medals.

The information control unit 213 performs the update process. The update process includes a process of determining information to be used in the next edge detection process. The information control unit 213 performs the update process, and sets the information indicated by the input current state stored in the main RAM 203 as the input previous state to be used for the next edge detection process. The input previous state is stored in the main RAM 203 in the same manner as the input current state.

FIG. 15B is a diagram for explaining the edge detection process. As shown by an arrow in FIG. 15B, the information control unit 213 sets the information indicated by the n-1st input current state (n is an integer of 2 or more) as the nth input previous state. In other words, the nth input previous state is the n-1th input current state. The input previous state is determined based on the operation state of the bet button 123 at the time of the previous edge detection process, and can be said to be information used in the current edge detection process.

Next, the edge detection process will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG.
First, the edge detection unit 211 acquires the input current state from the main RAM 203 (step ST1). Next, the edge detection unit 211 acquires the previous input state from the main RAM 203 (step ST2).

Next, the edge detection unit 211 determines whether the previous input state is the "OFF state" and the current input state is the "ON state", that is, whether the ON edge detection condition is satisfied (step ST3). ..
In step ST3, when the edge detection unit 211 determines that the ON edge detection condition is satisfied (step ST3: YES), the edge detection unit 211 detects the ON edge (step ST4). When the ON edge is detected in step ST4, the bet setting unit 212 bets a medal.

On the other hand, in step ST3, when the edge detection unit 211 determines that the ON edge detection condition is not satisfied (step ST3: NO), the process proceeds to step ST5.

Next, the information control unit 213 performs the update process (step ST5). That is, the information control unit 213 sets the information indicated by the input current state stored in the main RAM 203 as the next input previous state. When the process of step ST5 is completed, the process returns to the process of step ST1 again. In FIG. 5, the process of step ST5 may be performed before the process of step ST3.

Next, a case where a power failure occurs between the second and third edge detection processes shown in FIG. 15B will be described. Hereinafter, the case where the power failure occurs when the bet button 123 is not pressed (OFF state) and then the bet button 123 recovers from the power failure when the bet button 123 is pressed (ON state) will be described. Since the operation of pressing the bet button 123 is not intended to bet a medal by the player, it is not preferable that the ON edge is detected by the third edge detection process.

The main control board 200 performs a recovery process when a power ON signal is acquired from the power switch 500 (when recovering from a power failure). The recovery process includes a process of returning the state of the main RAM 203 to the state before the power failure based on the backed up data.

If no measures are taken to prevent the detection of unintended ON edges, the input previous state used in the third edge detection process after the power failure is the same as when the power failure did not occur for the second time. The input current state is "OFF state". Further, the input current state used in the third edge detection process after the power failure is "ON state" because the bet button 123 is pressed. Therefore, an unintended ON edge is detected in the third edge detection process.

In order to prevent the detection of an unintended ON edge as described above, the main control board 200 according to the present embodiment performs an update process (referred to as an update process at the time of recovery from power failure) when recovering from power failure.

It should be noted that the recovery from the power failure is not only caused by the ON operation of the power switch 500, but also in the case where the power of the slot machine 10 is temporarily turned off due to the occurrence of a power failure or the like, and then the power is supplied again to recover. be.

The update process at the time of recovery from power failure will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. At the start of the flowchart of FIG. 17, it is assumed that the main control board 200 has acquired the power ON signal from the power switch 500. Further, it is assumed that the main RAM 203 has returned to the state before the power failure.

The information control unit 213 acquires the input current state from the main RAM 203 (step ST11). Next, the information control unit 213 rewrites the input previous state of the main RAM 203 with the information indicated by the input current state acquired in step ST11 (step ST12). In other words, the information control unit 213 rewrites the previous input state with the actual operation state of the bet button 123 when returning from the power failure. It can be said that the information indicated by the input current state is set as the input previous state. Specifically, when the input current state is "ON state", the input previous state is set to "ON state", and when the input current state is "OFF state", the input previous state is set to "OFF state". do. The input previous state rewritten with the information indicated by the input current state is stored in the main RAM 203. When the process of step ST12 is completed, the update process at the time of recovery from the power failure is completed.

Further, in the above, it is assumed that the input current state is acquired from the main RAM 203 in step ST11, but the information control unit 213 directly inputs the information (bet operation information) indicating that the bet button 123 has been operated from the bet button 123. You may try to get it. In this case, in step ST12, the information control unit 213 rewrites the previous input state of the main RAM 203 based on the bet operation information. Specifically, when the bet operation information indicates "ON state", the input previous state is "ON state", and when the bet operation information indicates "OFF state", the input previous information is "OFF state". do.

In FIG. 18, between the second and third edge detection processes, a power failure occurs when the bet button 123 is not pressed (OFF state), and then an electric power is generated when the bet button 23 is pressed (ON state). It is a figure explaining the case which it recovered from the disconnection, and the update process at the time of the power failure recovery was performed. Since the operation state of the bet button 123 is "ON state" when recovering from the power failure, the information control unit 213 sets the previous state of the third input in the main RAM 203 to "ON state" as shown by an arrow F in FIG. Set to "ON state".

The edge detection process (third time) is executed after the update process at the time of recovery from the power failure. The edge detection process (third time) is executed, for example, 1.49 ms after the power failure recovery. In the edge detection process (third time), the edge detection unit 211 acquires the input current state "ON state" from the main RAM 203. Next, the edge detection unit 211 acquires the input previous state "ON state" from the main RAM 203. Next, the edge detection unit 211 determines that the ON edge detection condition does not apply because the previous input state is the "ON state" and the current input state is the "ON state". Therefore, an unintended ON edge that straddles the power failure is not detected.

Further, although not shown, if the operation state of the bet button 123 is "OFF state" when recovering from the power failure, the information control unit 213 sets the previous input state of the main RAM 203 to "OFF". .. Therefore, in the edge detection process (third time), the edge detection unit 211 acquires the input current state “OFF state” from the main RAM 203. Next, the edge detection unit 211 acquires the input previous state "OFF state" from the main RAM 203. Next, the edge detection unit 211 determines that the ON edge detection condition does not apply because the previous input state is the "OFF state" and the current input state is the "OFF state".

Further, in step ST1 of FIG. 16, in step ST1, the main CPU 201 waits at regular intervals (for example, 1.49 ms) from the time when the operation of the bet button 123 is enabled until the operation of the bet button 123 is invalidated. It can be said that periodic processing (timer interrupt) is performed to detect the current input state, that is, whether the operation state of the bet button 123 is the OFF state or the ON state. Hereinafter, the detection is referred to as periodic processing. Further, in steps ST1 to ST4 of FIG. 16, the main CPU 201 detects the "OFF state" of the bet button 23 at the n-1th periodic processing timing (referred to as the first periodic processing timing) in the periodic processing. When the "ON state" of the bet button 23 is detected at the nth periodic processing timing (referred to as the second periodic processing timing) after the first periodic processing timing, the "OFF state" is changed to the "ON state". It can be said that the ON edge is detected based on the change. For example, in the main CPU 201, when the operation state of the second time (first periodic processing timing) is "OFF state" and the operation state of the third time (second periodic processing timing) is "ON state", this "OFF state". The ON edge is detected based on the change from "state" to "ON state". When the main CPU 201 detects an ON edge, it bets a medal.

Further, the content shown in FIG. 18 is that after the main CPU 201 detects the "OFF state" at the first periodic processing timing, a power failure occurs and the bet button 123 is pressed to recover from the power failure. When the "ON state" is detected at the second periodic processing timing after the power failure is restored, the ON edge is not detected by updating the "OFF state" at the first periodic processing timing to the "ON state". It can be said. Therefore, the ON edge due to the operation not intended by the player is not detected across the power failure.

Note that FIG. 17 has described a case where the input previous state of the main RAM 203, which has returned to the state before the power failure, is rewritten with the information indicated by the input current state in step ST12. However, the previous input state does not necessarily need to be backed up, and if the previous input state is not backed up (cannot be restored), the current input state acquired when recovering from a power failure indicates. Information may be assigned (written) to the previous input state. Even in this case, it is possible to prevent the detection of an unintended ON edge as in the case of rewriting.

Next, a case where a power failure occurs when the bet button 123 is in the “ON state” and then the bet button 23 recovers from the power failure in the “OFF state” will be described.
In FIG. 19, after the input previous state and the input current state are “ON state” in the second edge detection process, a power failure occurs, and then the bet button 123 recovers from the power failure in the “OFF state”. , It is a figure explaining the case where the update process at the time of recovery from a power failure is performed. As shown in FIG. 19, the operation state (input current state) of the bet button 23 when recovering from the power failure is the “OFF state”. Therefore, the update process at the time of recovery from the power failure is performed, and the "OFF state" is set in the previous state of the third input. As a result, in the third edge detection process, both the previous input state and the current input state are in the “OFF state”, so that it is possible to prevent unintended detection of the OFF edge (falling edge), for example. In reality, the configuration may not detect the OFF edge.

Further, in FIG. 17, in step ST12, the input previous state is rewritten to the input current state regardless of whether the input current state is the “ON state” or the “OFF state”. As another example of the update process, the rewriting may be performed only when the input current state is "ON state". The other example will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG.
First, the information control unit 213 acquires the input current state from the main RAM 203 (step ST21). Next, the information control unit 213 determines whether the input current state of the main RAM 203 is the “ON state” (step ST22).

In step ST22, when the information control unit 213 determines that the input current state of the main RAM 203 is "ON state" (step ST22: YES), the information control unit 213 inputs the input previous state of the main RAM 203 to the present. Rewrite in the state "ON state" (step ST23). That is, the information indicated by the input current state is set as the input previous state. By step ST23, the previous input state that was "OFF state" is rewritten to "ON state". When the process of step ST23 is completed, the update process at the time of recovery from the power failure is completed.
On the other hand, in step ST22, when the information control unit 213 determines that the input current state of the main RAM 203 is not "ON state" (step ST22: NO), the information control unit 213 ends the update process at the time of recovery from power failure.

Further, in the update process at the time of recovery from power failure, the previous input state may be set to the "ON state" regardless of whether the current input state is the "ON state" or the "OFF state". Even with such a configuration, it is possible to prevent the detection of an unintended ON edge.

As described above, according to the present embodiment, the main control board 200 for controlling the game and the bet button 123 for betting the game medium are provided, and the bet button 123 is pressed on the main control board 200. If the player recovers from the power failure in the state of being pressed, the bet of the game medium based on the pressing is not performed. Therefore, if the power is turned off when the bet button 123 is not pressed and then the power is turned on while the bet button 123 is pressed, the player does not want to bet a medal. Can be prevented.

Further, the main control board 200 executes a periodic process for detecting whether the operation state of the bet button 123 is an OFF state or an ON state at regular intervals, and in the periodic process, the OFF state is performed at the first periodic process timing. When the ON state is detected at the second periodic processing timing after the first periodic processing timing, the ON edge can be detected based on the change from the OFF state to the ON state, and the ON edge is detected. In this case, the game medium is bet, and after the OFF state is detected at the first periodic processing timing, a power failure occurs, and the bet button 23 is pressed to recover from the power failure after the power failure is restored. When the ON state is detected at the second periodic processing timing, the ON edge is not detected. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the detection of an unintended ON edge without causing a large increase in the processing load. As a result, it is possible to prevent the player from unintentionally betting a medal.

Further, the main control board 200 has an edge detection unit 211 that performs an edge detection process for detecting an ON edge when the information indicating the operation state of the bet button 123 corresponds to a predetermined condition, and an edge detection process. The bet setting unit 212 for betting the game medium and the information control unit 213 for controlling the information used in the edge detection process are provided when the ON edge is detected, and the edge detection unit 211 has the previous edge detection. The input previous state determined based on the operation state of the bet button 123 at the time of processing and used in the current edge detection process is compared with the input current state determined based on the operation state of the current bet button 123. The ON edge is detected when the previous input state is the OFF state indicating that the bet button 123 is not pressed, and the current input state is the ON state indicating that the bet button is pressed. The information control unit 213 is characterized in that, when the bet button 123 is pressed and the bet button 123 is restored from the power failure, the input previous state used in the edge detection process after the restoration is set to the ON state. .. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the detection of an unintended ON edge without causing a large increase in the processing load.

The update process shown in FIG. 17 is also performed at the end of one game (or at the start of one game). Therefore, even if the bet button 123 is pressed before the operation of the bet button 123 is activated, the medal based on the pressed operation is not bet. In other words, the operation of pressing the bet button 123 is started during the period in which the operation of the bet button 123 is invalidated, and the operation of the bet button 123 is enabled while the operation of the bet button 123 continues to be pressed. Even if it becomes, the bet of the medal based on the pressing operation is not made. The "state in which the operation of the bet button 123 is enabled" means a state in which the time until the operation of the bet button 123 is activated has elapsed.
For example, the operation of pressing the bet button 123 is started during the medal payout period (during medal payout), which is the period during which the operation of the bet button 123 is invalidated, and the operation of the bet button 123 is enabled as it is. Even in this case (even if the medal payout process is completed), the medal is not bet based on the pressing operation.
Further, the update process shown in FIG. 17 may be executed at the time of recovery from the error. In this case, when the operation of pressing the bet button 123 is started during the error period (during an error), which is the period during which the operation of the bet button 123 is invalidated, and the operation of the bet button 123 is enabled as it is. Even if there is (even if the error ends) (even if the error is cleared), the medal is not bet based on the pressing operation.

In the present embodiment, a gaming medium (medal) is used as the slot machine 100, but the slot machine 100 is a gaming machine (so-called medalless gaming machine) capable of playing a game without using the gaming medium. ) May be. In this medalless gaming machine, game media such as medals are managed by digitized information (electronic information), and bets and payouts are made by this electronic information. That is, it is possible to play a game without using a game medium such as a medal. In the present embodiment, the concept including a game medium such as a medal and electronic information obtained by digitizing the game medium is defined as a game value.

In the above, the bet button 123 is pressed while the medal is being paid out (when the symbol combination corresponding to the winning combination won in the winning combination lottery is displayed on the valid line), and the medal is paid out while the bet button 123 is pressed. Even if the processing of is completed, the bet of the medal based on the pressing is not made.
Here, the settlement process will be described. The front door 112 shown in FIG. 12 is provided with a settlement button (settlement operation unit) 152. The settlement button 152 is formed so that it can be pressed and operated, and is used for executing a settlement process for paying out medals. In the settlement process based on the operation of the settlement button 152, the medal set in at least one of the bet or the credit is paid out. That is, the target of settlement based on the operation of the settlement button 152 in the present embodiment includes not only medals set for credits but also medals set for bets. There are, for example, two patterns as the settlement pattern by operating the settlement button 152 when medals are set for both bets and credits.
The first pattern is a settlement pattern in which both the medal set for the bet and the medal set for the credit are paid out at once by one operation of the settlement button 152.
In the second pattern, only the medals set in the bet are paid out by the operation of the first settlement button 152, and the credit is given by the operation of the second settlement button 152 after the settlement of the medals set in the bet. This is the settlement pattern in which the medals set in are paid out.

In the present embodiment, even if the bet button 123 is started to be pressed during the medal settlement (during the game value settlement) and the medal settlement process is completed in that state, the medal based on the pressing of the bet button 123 is pressed. No bets are placed. That is, even if the bet button 123 is pressed during the medal settlement and the medal settlement process is completed while the bet button 123 is pressed, the main control board 200 is a medal based on the pressing of the bet button 123. Control not to place a bet. As a result, it is possible to prevent the contradictory and complicated process of betting the medal during the medal settlement.
"Medal settlement" means that the blocker moves to the unauthorized position based on the pressing of the settlement button 152, the settlement process is completed, and after a predetermined period of time, the blocker moves to the permitted position ( The period of P1 and P2 shown in FIG. 3). After the settlement button 152 is pressed (or after the blocker moves to the disallowed position), the output of the voice (settlement completion voice) (for example, "settlement") notifying the completion of the settlement is completed. The medal may be settled during the period until the medal is settled (the period of P1 and P3 shown in FIG. 3). Further, after the settlement completion voice is output, a silent period for a certain period of time may be provided, and the medal settlement may be in progress until the silent period elapses (the period of P1, P2 and P3 shown in FIG. 3).

Further, in the main control board 200, even if the bet button 123 is pressed while the settlement button 152 is pressed and the settlement button 152 is pressed while the bet button 123 is pressed, the bet button 123 is pressed. Control not to bet on based medals. When the pressing of the settlement button 152 is completed, it means that the pressing of the settlement button 152 is released.
"Operating the settlement button 152" means that the settlement button 152 is being pressed, but the settlement process is not started because the pressing of the settlement button 152 is released before the lapse of a predetermined period (1 second). This includes a case and a case where the settlement button 152 is released after the settlement button 152 is continuously pressed even after the settlement process is completed. As a result, it is possible to prevent the contradictory and complicated process of betting the medal during the operation of paying the medal.

Here, the errors detected (detected) by the main control board 200 are the backflow error, the empty error, the payout jam error, the payout error error, the over error, the retention error, the backup error, and the door, as in the first embodiment. There are open error, input error error, display judgment error error, RAM error error, and setting value error error. The error clearing operation includes, for example, an operation of inserting the door key into the door key cylinder (reference numeral 153 in FIG. 12) and rotating (twisting) the door key counterclockwise, and an operation of pressing the setting change button. be.

When the main control board 200 detects an error, it transmits a command (error command) indicating that an error has occurred to the sub control board 300. When the sub control board 300 receives an error command from the main control board 200, the sub control board 300 controls to display an image (error screen) corresponding to the error occurrence content on the liquid crystal display D, and a warning sound (error sound) corresponding to the error occurrence. Is controlled to be output via the speaker 114.

The error detected by the main control board 200 may include an error other than the above. In the present embodiment, the door opening error is the first error, and a predetermined error other than the door opening error is the second error. The errors that can be detected by the main control board 200 include a plurality of errors including a first error and a second error.
In the above, even if the bet button 123 is started to be pressed during the error and the error ends (even if the error is canceled), the medal based on the press of the bet button 123 is not bet. However, this may be done if the error is a given error. That is, even if the bet button 123 is pressed during the second error and the second error ends while the bet button 123 is pressed (even if the second error is canceled), the main control board 200 is concerned. It is controlled not to place a medal bet based on the pressing of the bet button 123. This makes it possible to prevent the medal from being bet based on the pressing of the bet button 123 during the second error. When the bet button 123 is pressed during the first error and the first error is resolved while the bet button 123 is pressed, the main control board 200 bets a medal based on the pressing of the bet button 123. Control to do.

Further, the error canceling operation includes a door key operation (inserting the door key into the door key cylinder and rotating the door key counterclockwise, for example). The main control board 200 is based on the pressing of the bet button 123 even if the bet button 123 is pressed during the error and the error ends (even if the error is resolved) while the bet button 123 is pressed. Control to bet a medal based on the pressing of the bet button 123 when the bet button 123 is pressed during the operation of the door key for canceling the error after the error occurs, although the bet of the medal is not performed. do. The period during which the door key is being operated means that the door key ON is detected by rotating (twisting) the door key inserted into the door key cylinder. As a result, it is possible to shift to a gaming state in which betting is possible without detecting the door key OFF (that is, the state in which the operation of twisting the door key counterclockwise is completed), which leads to a reduction in capacity.

(Third embodiment)
Next, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
As shown in FIG. 22, the slot machine (game machine) 10 of the present invention opens and closes a box-shaped housing 11 having an opening on the front side, which is a surface facing the player side, and an opening on the front side of the housing 11. It is provided with a front door 12 to be used. The housing 11 houses a reel unit in which a rotatable first reel 20a, a second reel 20b, and a third reel 20c are unitized, a hopper device for paying out medals (game value), and the like. Further, the front door 12 is divided into an upper door 12a and a lower door 12b, and the upper door 12a and the lower door 12b can be opened and closed with respect to the housing 11, respectively.

The upper door 12a is provided with a liquid crystal display (display means) (display device) 13, a device for staging such as a speaker 14, and a display window 16. The liquid crystal display 13 displays images (moving images, still images) for various effects. Further, the speaker 14 outputs sounds for various effects (music, sound effects, voice, etc.). As the device for directing, in addition to the liquid crystal display 13 and the speaker 14, an illumination device such as a lamp (LED), a movable accessory that can be operated by an actuator, or the like may be provided.

At the back of the display window 16, a reel unit is arranged so that a part thereof can be visually recognized from the outside of the display window 16. A plurality of types of symbols are arranged in a row on the outer peripheral surface of each reel 20a to 20c, and when each reel 20a to 20c is stopped, three symbols per reel (upper symbol, middle symbol, lower row) are arranged through the display window 16. Design) is displayed. Further, the display window 16 is provided with an upper stage, a middle stage, and a lower stage as display positions for visually recognizing the symbols of the reels 20a to 20c, and an effective line is set by the combination of the display positions of the reels 20a to 20c. Has been done. In the gaming machine of the present embodiment, the effective line is composed of the middle stage of the first reel 20a, the middle stage of the second reel 20b, and the upper stage of the third reel 20c. Further, in the gaming machine of the present embodiment, the number of medals (specified number of medals) required for one game is set to 3, and when the specified number of medals are inserted, the effective line is activated. To.

In the slot machine 10, each reel 20a to 20c starts to rotate with the start of the game, and an internal lottery is executed to determine whether any of the winning combinations is won or lost (unwinned). Next, when the reels 20a to 20c are stopped, if the symbol combination corresponding to the winning combination won in the internal lottery is displayed on the valid line, this winning combination becomes a prize, and the process corresponding to the winning combination (winning). Processing) is executed.

Below the display window 16, a game information display unit 17 and an advantageous section display 18 are provided. The game information display unit 17 includes LEDs, lamps, a 7-segment display, and the like, and displays various game information such as the number of medals credited, the number of medals paid out or won in one game, and error information. Further, the advantageous section indicator 18 has an LED, and by turning on and off the LED, it is notified whether or not the user is staying in the advantageous section.

The lower door 12b has a medal insertion slot 22 for inserting medals, a bet button 23 for betting a credited medal, a start lever (game start operation means) 24 operated when starting a game, and a rotation. A stop button (stop operation means) 26a, 26b, 26c for stopping the current reel, a payout port 27 for paying out medals by a hopper device, and a medal tray 28 for receiving medals paid out from the payout port 27 are provided. .. Further, at the back of the medal insertion slot 22, a medal sensor 29 (see FIG. 23) for detecting the passage of medals inserted from the medal insertion slot 22 is provided.

In the slot machine 10, the operation of the start lever 24 is enabled by inserting a medal into the medal insertion slot 22 or operating the bet button 23 to bet a predetermined number of medals. Further, when the activated start lever 24 is operated, the game is started. When the game is started, the reels 20a to 20c start to rotate, and when the rotation speed of the reels 20a to 20c reaches a constant speed and becomes a steady rotation, the operation of the stop buttons 26a to 26c is enabled. Further, when the activated stop buttons 26a to 26c are operated, the reels 20a to 20c corresponding to the operated stop buttons 26a to 26c are stopped.

As shown in FIG. 23, a main control board (main control device) 31 and a sub control board (sub control device) 32 are provided inside the slot machine 10. The main control board 31 receives input signals from input means such as the bet button 23, the start lever 24, the stop buttons 26a to 26c, and the medal sensor 29, performs various calculations for executing the game, and obtains the calculation results. Based on this, the output means such as the reel unit and the hopper device are controlled. Further, the sub control board 32 receives a signal sent from the main control board 31 and performs various calculations for executing the effect, and based on the calculation results, the sub control board 32 is used for the effect of the liquid crystal display 13, the speaker 14, and the like. Control the device.

Further, the main control board 31 and the sub control board 32 are electrically connected to each other, and various information (signals) such as information indicating the game state can be transmitted from the main control board 31 to the sub control board 32. However, information cannot be transmitted from the sub control board 32 to the main control board 31.
Further, the functions of each board such as the main control board 31 and the sub control board 32 are preliminarily applied to various processors (CPU, DSP, etc.), ICs, hardware such as information storage media such as ROM and RAM, ROM and the like. It is realized by software consisting of a predetermined program stored.

The main control board 31 includes an input receiving means 40, a random number generation means 41, an internal lottery means 42 that performs an internal lottery to determine the winning or failing of a combination, a reel control means 43 that controls the rotation of reels, and all reels. Winning determination means 44, payout control means 45, replay control means 46, setting change means 47, initialization means 48, and game state control means for determining whether or not the winning combination has won when the game is stopped. It includes 49, an instruction function control means 51, an effect main control means 52, and a storage means 60. Further, the storage means 60 includes a ROM and a RAM.
Further, the sub control board 32 includes an effect sub control means 70 and a sub side storage means 72. Further, the sub-side storage means 72 includes a ROM and a RAM.

Further, the staging control means 100 is configured by the staging main control means 52 and the staging sub control means 70. The effect main control means 52 issues an instruction to the effect sub control means 70 based on the game state, the effect state, and the like. Further, the staging sub-control means 70 is for staging stored in the sub-side storage means 72 based on the game state, information on the staging state, or information on whether or not to perform the instruction staging transmitted from the staging main control means 52. The data is used to control the device for staging. The control performed by the staging main control means 52 described in the present embodiment may be performed by the staging sub control means 70, and the control performed by the staging sub control means 70 may be performed by the staging main control means 52. Further, the control performed by the staging control means 100 described in the present embodiment may be performed by the instruction function control means 51, and the control performed by the instruction function control means 51 may be performed by the staging control means 100.

The insertion receiving means 40 accepts the insertion of medals for each game, and performs a process of validating the game start operation for the start lever 24 based on the insertion of a predetermined number of medals. Specifically, when a medal is inserted into the medal insertion slot 22, the medal sensor 29 detects the medal, and the insertion receiving means 40 inserts the inserted medals up to a specified number (a state in which the inserted medals are inserted. Bet status). Further, when the bet button 23 is pressed while the medals are credited, the insertion receiving means 40 sets the credited medals to the insertion state up to a specified number. In the gaming machine of the present embodiment, the first pressing operation on the start lever 24 activated based on the insertion of a predetermined number of medals is accepted as the game start operation, and the reels 20a to 20c are triggered by the operation. As the rotation starts, a lottery such as an internal lottery is performed.

Further, the insertion receiving means 40 controls so that the medal owned by the player is not newly set in the insertion state in the next game of the game in which the replay wins. Specifically, when the replay wins in the previous game, even if a medal is inserted into the medal insertion slot 22 while accepting the insertion of medals, the inserted medal is not set to the inserted state. Credit the inserted medals up to the maximum number of credits (for example, 50). Further, the operation for the bet button 23 is not accepted in the state of accepting the insertion of medals, and the credited medal is not set in the insertion state even if the bet button 23 is pressed.

The random number generation means 41 generates a random number value for lottery. The random value can be generated based on, for example, the count value of an increment counter (a counter that counts numerical values so as to circulate in a predetermined count range). In the present embodiment, the "random number" is not only a value that randomly occurs in a mathematical sense, but also a value that is generated regularly, but the acquisition timing and the like are irregular, so that the "random number" is practical. Also includes values that can function as random numbers.

The internal lottery means 42 performs an internal lottery using the internal lottery table based on the operation of the activated start lever 24 (that is, the start of the game).
In the internal lottery table, each of a plurality of random numbers (for example, 65536 random numbers from 0 to 65535) is associated with various winning combinations and losses (unwinning) including small wins, replays and bonuses. It is stored in a plurality of internal lottery table storage areas 61 provided in the ROM of the storage means 60. In the gaming machine of the present embodiment, as described later, the general medium state, the RBB internal medium state, and the RBB operating state can be set as the gaming state, and six settings 1 to 6 are set as the setting values. The value can be set, and the internal lottery means 42 selects an internal lottery table according to the gaming state and the set value to perform an internal lottery.
The small winning combination is a role in which a predetermined number of medals can be paid out according to the winning small winning combination. In addition, replay is a role in which a player can play a game again without consuming a new medal by winning a prize. When the replay wins, the operation of the start lever 24 is activated without using the player's medal, and the game can be started by operating the start lever 24.

In the internal lottery, a random number value for lottery is acquired from the random number generation means 41, the random number value is collated with the internal lottery table to determine whether or not the winning combination has been won, and the winning associated with the random number value is determined. The role is won. Specifically, the internal lottery table is provided with a plurality of winning areas as shown in FIG. 24, and each of the random number values acquired from the random number generating means 41 is associated with any of the winning areas. There is. In addition, the winning area includes a winning area that includes one or more winning combinations (corresponding to winning combinations) and a winning area that does not include any winning combination (corresponding to a loss). .. In addition, the combination of winning combinations included in each winning area is different. Then, all the winning combinations belonging to the winning area associated with the random number value acquired from the random number generating means 41 are won as a result of the internal lottery. In the following, in the internal lottery, winning a combination belonging to the winning area is also referred to as "winning area wins". In addition, when neither role is won, it is also referred to as "winning area" unwinning "is winning".

As shown in FIG. 24, in the gaming machine of the present embodiment, small winning combination 1 to small winning combination 40 are prepared as small winning combination. In addition, as the winning area including the small role, "small role ALL", "1 piece ALL", "choice 1 piece _1" to "choice 1 piece _4", "batting order bell 1A" to "batting order bell 6A", "batting order""Bell1B"-"Batting order bell 6B" and "Watermelon" are available. In addition, small roles 1 to 6 are 10-card roles in which 10 medals are paid out when a prize is won, and small roles 7, small roles 8, small roles 39, and small roles 40 are awarded 3 medals when a prize is won. It is a three-card combination that is paid out, and small roles 9 to 38 are one-card roles in which one medal is paid out when a prize is won.
In the following, the winning areas "batting order bell 1A" to "batting order bell 6A" are referred to as batting order bell A, and the winning areas "batting order bell 1B" to "batting order bell 6B" are referred to as batting order bell A, B. Are collectively referred to as batting order bells. In addition, the winning areas "1 choice _1" to "1 choice _ 4" are collectively referred to as 1 choice.

The winning area "Small role ALL" is a winning area where all the small roles (small roles 1 to 40) are duplicated and won. In addition, the winning area "1 piece ALL" is a winning area in which all 1 piece roles (small role 9 to small role 38) are duplicated and won. In addition, the winning areas "Choice 1 Sheet _1" to "Choice 1 Sheet _1" are winning areas in which a plurality of 1-card combinations are duplicated and won. In addition, the winning areas "Batting Order Bell 1A to 6A" and "Batting Order Bell 1B" to "Batting Order Bell 6B" are winning areas in which one of the 10-card winning combination and the 1-card winning combination are both won. ing. In addition, the winning area "watermelon" is a winning area where all three-card roles (small role 7, small role 8, small role 39, small role 40) and a plurality of single-card roles are duplicated and won. ..

Further, in the gaming machine of the present embodiment, replays 1 to 16 are prepared as replays. In addition, the winning areas that include replays are "normal replay", "replay 1" to "replay 4", "weak cherry 1", "weak cherry 2", "strong cherry", "chance eye" and "watermelon loss". Is prepared.

Multiple replays are duplicated in the winning areas "Normal Replay", "Replay 1" to "Replay 4", "Weak Cherry 1", "Weak Cherry 2", "Strong Cherry", "Chance Eye" and "Watermelon Loss". It is a winning area to win.

Further, in the gaming machine of the present embodiment, a big bonus is prepared as a bonus. In addition, as a winning area to which a bonus is associated, a winning area "RBB" in which a big bonus is won independently is prepared, and a big bonus is given to the winning areas "1 choice _1" to "1 choice _ 4". It is set to win more than once. In addition, in the winning areas "Choice 1 _1" to "Choice 1 _4", when the game state is in the general middle state, the big bonus is duplicated and won, while the game state is in the RBB internal middle state. Is designed to prevent multiple big bonuses from being won.
In the gaming machine of the present embodiment, as a bonus, a bonus continuous operation device related to a so-called first-class special bonus is assumed, but other bonuses may be used. In addition, other bonuses may be installed at the same time. In addition, the bonuses to be mounted may be set to be individually won, or may be set to be won in duplicate with a replay or a small role.

In addition, "unwinning" is prepared as a winning area to which a loss is associated.

Each winning area is set to be won or not to be won according to the gaming state. In other words, the internal lottery means 42 selects an internal lottery table according to the game state and performs an internal lottery, whereby the winning combination changes. Further, in other words, in each game state, an internal lottery is performed using an internal lottery table in which the winning area that can be won in each game state is included in the lottery target. In FIG. 24, whether or not each winning area can be won in each gaming state is indicated by a “◯” mark. That is, the winning areas "unwinning", "small winning combination ALL" and "single piece ALL" are won when the gaming state is in the RBB operating state, and are not won in the general middle state or the RBB internal middle state. There is. In addition, the winning areas "1 choice _1" to "1 choice _4", "Batting order bell 1A" to "Batting order bell 6A", "Batting order bell 1B" to "Batting order bell 6B", "Watermelon", "Normal replay" "Replay 1" to "Replay 4", "Weak Cherry 1", "Weak Cherry 2", "Strong Cherry", "Chance Eye" and "Watermelon Loss" are in the general medium state or the RBB internal medium state. If you win, you won't win while the RBB is in operation. Further, the winning area "RBB" is won when the gaming state is in the general middle state, and is not won in the RBB internal middle state or the RBB operating state.

Each winning area has a different winning area number. Each winning area can be identified by the winning area number. In the gaming machine of the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 24, the winning areas "selection 1 sheet _1" to "selection 1 sheet _4" that are won when the game state is in the general medium state, and the game state is inside the RBB. Although different winning area numbers are assigned to the winning areas "1 choice _1" to "1 choice _1" that are won in the middle state, the same winning area number is assigned regardless of the gaming state. , Whether or not the big bonus is won at the same time may be switched according to the game state.

Further, in the gaming machine of the present embodiment, the winning probability of the small winning combination is the same in the general medium state and the RBB internal medium state. In addition, the winning probability of the replay is the same in the general medium state and the RBB internal medium state. In addition, the replay is not won while the RBB is in operation. In other words, in the general middle state and the BB internal middle state, the probability of winning the replay is higher than in the RBB operating state.

The internal lottery means 42 sets the winning flag corresponding to the winning combination as a result of the internal lottery from the non-winning state (off state) to the winning state (on state). If a plurality of winning combinations are won in duplicate, the winning flag corresponding to each of the winning combinations is set from the non-winning state to the winning state. Further, the setting information of the winning flag is stored in the winning flag storage area 62 provided in the RAM 60a of the storage means 60.

In addition, the winning flag includes a winning flag (carry-over possible flag) that allows the winning state to be carried over to the next and subsequent games until a prize is won, and a non-winning state because the winning state is not carried over to the next and subsequent games regardless of the winning. There is a winning flag (non-carryover flag) that is reset to. There is a big bonus as a role to which the carry-over flag is associated. In addition, there are small roles and replays as the roles to which the carry-over impossible flag is associated. For example, when the big bonus is won in the internal lottery, the internal lottery means 42 carries over the winning state of the winning flag of the big bonus until the big bonus is won. At this time, the internal lottery means 42 performs an internal lottery to determine whether or not the small winning combination and the replay are successful even in the game in which the winning state of the winning flag of the big bonus is carried over. That is, in a game in which the winning state of the big bonus winning flag is carried over, if a small winning combination or replay is won, the winning flag of the big bonus that has already been won and the small winning combination or replay won by the internal lottery The winning flag corresponding to two or more types of winning combinations with the winning flag is set in the winning state.

Further, in the slot machine 10, the winning probability of the winning combination differs depending on the difference in the setting values of the six setting values from the setting 1 to the setting 6. Specifically, when the setting is changed, the internal lottery table group consisting of a plurality of internal lottery tables selected according to the game state is changed to the internal lottery table group associated with each setting. Depending on the setting, the winning probability of small wins, replays, and bonuses will change to a group of internal lottery tables.

The setting changing means 47 controls to change the set value stored in the set value storage area 63 provided in the RAM of the storage means 60. Specifically, the setting change key is inserted into the setting change key cylinder provided inside the slot machine 10, and the slot is in a state where the setting change key (setting change key cylinder) is rotated 90 degrees clockwise from the initial position. When the power of the machine 10 is turned on, the setting changing means 47 starts the slot machine 10 in the setting changing mode. The set value can be selected from 6 levels of setting values from setting 1 to setting 6, and an internal lottery is made so that the expected value of the payout rate increases in order from setting 1 to setting 6. The winning probability of is fluctuating. The setting changing means 47 is set in the order of setting 1 → setting 2 → ... setting 6 → setting 1 → ... each time the setting change button provided inside the slot machine 10 is pressed in the setting change mode. When the set value is changed and the start lever 24 is pressed, the set value is fixed and the fixed set value is stored in the set value storage area 63. In addition, the setting change mode can be switched to the game mode by returning the setting change key inserted in the setting change key cylinder to the initial position.
In this embodiment, the height of the set value is expressed in the order of setting 1 <setting 2 <setting 3 <setting 4 <setting 5 <setting 6.

Further, when the power is turned on with the setting change key cylinder in the initial position, the slot machine 10 is started in the game mode. In the gaming machine of the present embodiment, the game can be played in the game mode, but the set value cannot be changed, and the set value can be changed in the setting change mode, but the game cannot be played. It is not possible.

The initialization means 48 performs an initialization process for initializing at least a part of the information stored in the RAM of the storage means 60 when the set value is changed. Specifically, when the set value is changed, the initialization means 48 performs a process of returning the game state, the game section, and the effect state, which will be described later, to the initial state. That is, when the set value is changed, the game state becomes the general middle state, the game section becomes the non-advantageous section, the effect state becomes the normal effect state, and these states are the same as when the power is first turned on after the factory shipment. It becomes the state of. In addition, the initialization means 48 also initializes information and the like related to the effect stored in the RAM of the storage means 60 in the initialization process. Further, the sub control board 32 also has an initialization means (not shown), and when a signal notifying that the set value has been changed is transmitted from the main control board 31, the initialization means of the sub control board 32 becomes available. The information about the effect stored in the RAM of the sub-side storage means 51 is initialized.
Even if the set value is changed, the game state, the game section, or the effect state may not be returned to the initial state.

The reel control means 43 starts the rotation of each reel 20a to 20c and activates it when the start lever 24 activated under the control of the main control board 31 is operated (that is, the game starts). When the stopped buttons 26a to 26c are operated, the stop control of the reel corresponding to the operated stop button is performed.

That is, each time the stop buttons 26a to 26c are operated, the reel control means 43 determines the stop position of the reel corresponding to the operated button among the first reel 20a to the third reel 20c. , Controls to stop the reel at the determined stop position. In the slot machine 10, when the stop button 26a is operated, the rotation of the first reel 20a is stopped, and when the stop button 26b is operated, the rotation of the second reel 20b is stopped and the stop button 26c is operated. Then, the rotation of the third reel 20c is stopped. Therefore, the stop order of the first reel 20a to the third reel 20c changes depending on the operation order (batting order) of the stop buttons 26a to 26c.

In the following, regarding the order of stop operations (operation order of stop buttons 26a to 26c), the order of one group of stop operations in which all the stop buttons of the stop buttons 26a to 26c are operated is referred to as "batting order". Of the stop operations that make up the batting order, the first stop operation is the "first stop operation", the second stop operation is the "second stop operation", and the third stop operation is the "third stop operation". ".

Further, in the following, the operation of the stop buttons 26a, 26b, 26c for stopping the rotary reels in the order of the first reel 20a, the second reel 20b, and the third reel 20c is referred to as "beating order 1", and the first reel 20a and the third reel The operation of the stop buttons 26a, 26b, and 26c for stopping the rotary reels in the order of 20c and the second reel 20b is set to "beating order 2", and the rotary reels are stopped in the order of the second reel 20b, the first reel 20a, and the third reel 20c. The operation of the stop buttons 26a, 26b, 26c is set to "hit order 3", and the operation of the stop buttons 26a, 26b, 26c for stopping the rotating reels in the order of the second reel 20b, the third reel 20c, and the first reel 20a is "hit order 4". The operation of the stop buttons 26a, 26b, 26c for stopping the rotary reels in the order of the third reel 20c, the first reel 20a, and the second reel 20b is set to "beating order 5", and the third reel 20c, the second reel 20b, The operation of the stop buttons 26a, 26b, 26c for stopping the rotary reels in the order of the first reel 20a is referred to as "beating order 6".

In the stop control when the stop buttons 26a to 26c are operated, the reel control means 43 stops each reel 20a to 20c so that the winning combination whose winning flag is set to the winning state wins. Specifically, when the winning flag of one winning combination is set to the winning state, the stop control of each reel 20a to 20c is performed so that the winning combination wins. Further, in a state where the winning flags of a plurality of winning combinations are set to the winning state in duplicate, each reel 20a to 20c is stopped so that a predetermined winning combination wins according to the priority order determined for each combination. Let me. In the gaming machine of the present embodiment, the priority is determined in the order of "replay> small winning combination> bonus". Then, the reel control means 43 arranges the reel 20a so that the symbol constituting the winning form of the winning combination having a high priority is displayed on the effective line in preference to the symbol constituting the winning form of the winning combination having a low priority. ~ 20c is stopped.

In addition, when multiple types of small winning combinations are won in the internal lottery, the priority order for the stop position candidates is the case where the priority is obtained according to the number of symbol combinations that can be displayed on the valid line, and the case where the small winning combination is previously selected. There are cases where the priority is obtained according to the number of medals to be paid out based on the specified dividend. When determining the priority of stop position candidates according to the number of symbol combinations that can be displayed on the valid line, the stop position that has a larger number of symbol combinations that indicate the winning form that can be displayed on the valid line has priority. The priority of each stop position candidate is obtained so that the order is high. When finding the priority of the candidate stop position according to the number of medals paid out, the number of medals paid out based on the payout of the small winning combination corresponding to the symbol displayed at the display position on the valid line increases. The priority of each stop position candidate is obtained so that the position (the stop position where a small winning combination with a large payout can be won) has a higher priority. However, when seeking priority for candidates for stop positions according to the number of medals paid out, if small wins with the same payout are won in duplicate, the stop positions where each small win can be won. The priorities of the candidates are treated as the same.

The batting order bell has a correct batting order and an incorrect batting order, respectively. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 25, when one of the batting order bells is won, if the operation is performed in the correct batting order, the 10-card winning combination is won, and if the operation is performed in the incorrect batting order, the 1-card combination is won. Can win a prize. In addition, when the operations are performed in the wrong batting order, one winning combination will not be won with a predetermined probability (1/2 or 3/4 probability), and more specifically, none of the winning combinations will be won. There is. In addition, the correct batting order for each batting order bell is set to one, and the other five batting orders are incorrect batting orders. Further, in "Batting Order Bell 1A" to "Batting Order Bell 6A", different batting orders are set in the correct batting order, and in "Batting Order Bell 1B" to "Batting Order Bell 6B", different batting orders are set in the correct batting order. There is.

Then, when any of the batting order bells is won and the stop buttons 26a to 26c are pressed in the correct batting order, the priority of the stop position candidate that can win the small winning combination 1 to 6 is the highest. When the stop buttons 26a to 26c are pressed in the wrong batting order, the priority is so that the candidate for the stop position that can win the small winning combination 9 to 38 has the highest priority. Is required.

Further, in the winning areas "selection 1 sheet _1" to "selection 1 sheet _4", the winning / non-winning of the 1-card combination differs depending on the pressing timing of the stop buttons 26a to 26c, which is 1/4. There is a probability that one winning combination will be won, and there is a 3/4 chance that no winning combination will be won. Here, the pressing timings of the winning areas "Choice 1 Sheet _1" to "Choice 1 Sheet _1" are different from each other so that one card combination can be won.

The winning determination means 44 is activated when the rotation of the reels 20a to 20c is stopped, and determines whether or not the winning combination has won a prize based on the stopping mode of the reels 20a to 20c. Specifically, the symbol combination displayed (stop display) on the effective line when the reels 20a to 20c are stopped is collated with the winning determination table stored in the ROM of the storage means 60. In the winning judgment table, each winning form (a combination of symbols that will be won when stopped and displayed) is stored in each winning combination, and the presence or absence of winning and the type of winning combination can be determined by the above-mentioned collation. do. When the winning combination is won, the main control board 31 executes the winning process corresponding to the winning combination. Specifically, when a small winning combination is won, a payout process is performed, when a replay is won, a replay process (replay process) is performed, and when a bonus is won, the game state is displayed. Performs the process of transition (game state transition control process).

Here, the payout process is a process of paying out a number of medals determined based on the dividend determined for each winning combination when a small winning combination is won, and is performed by the payout control means 45. When a small winning combination is won, the payout control means 45 determines the number of medals to be paid out based on the dividend determined for each winning combination, and causes the hopper device to pay out the determined number of medals to be paid out. If credits are permitted, the number of credits stored in the credit storage area provided in the RAM of the storage means 60 (the number of credited medals) instead of actually paying out the medals by the hopper device. ), The credit addition process for adding the number of payouts is performed, and the medals are virtually paid out.

In the gaming machine of the present embodiment, 10 medals are paid out when winning small roles 1 to 6, and 3 medals are paid out when winning small roles 7, small roles 8, small roles 39, and small roles 40. It is paid out, and one medal is paid out when a prize is won in the small role 9 to the small role 38.

Further, the replay process is a process of setting the same game start standby state as the previous game without requiring the player to insert a medal owned by the player for the next game when the replay wins, and the replay control means 46. Do. If the replay wins, the same number of medals as the number set in the input state in the previous game (the game that the replay won) will be given to the player's own medals (including credited medals). The automatic insertion process for automatically inserting medals without using the medals is performed, and the game start operation for the next start lever 24 is waited for with the effective line corresponding to the number of medals inserted by the automatic insertion process set. Further, when the automatic insertion process is performed, additional medals cannot be inserted.

As shown in FIG. 26, the game state control means 49 performs a game state transition control process for shifting the game state between the general middle state, the RBB internal middle state (bonus established state), and the RBB operating state (bonus state). conduct. As the transition condition of the gaming state, one condition may be defined, or a plurality of conditions may be defined. When a plurality of conditions are set, the gaming state may be changed based on the fact that one of the plurality of predetermined conditions is satisfied, and a plurality of the plurality of predetermined conditions or a plurality of predetermined conditions may be set. The gaming state may be changed based on the fact that everything is established.

Further, as described above, the internal lottery means 42 selects an internal lottery table according to the game state and performs an internal lottery. Specifically, in the general middle state, the internal lottery is performed with reference to the internal lottery table in which the big bonus is set as the lottery target. Further, in the internal RBB state, the internal lottery is performed with reference to the internal lottery table in which the big bonus is excluded from the lottery target. Further, in the RBB operating state, the internal lottery is performed with reference to the internal lottery table in which the big bonus is excluded from the lottery target.

The gaming state is a general medium state in the initial state. In the general middle state, the internal lottery is performed with reference to the internal lottery table in which all the winning areas except the winning areas "unwinning", "small winning combination ALL", and "single piece ALL" are set as lottery targets. In addition, it is possible to shift from the general medium state to the RBB internal medium state. The game state control means 49 shifts the game state to the RBB internal middle state when the big bonus is won in the general middle state.

The RBB internal middle state is a gaming state that shifts when a big bonus is won in an internal lottery. In the internal RBB state, all winning areas except the winning areas "Unwinning", "Small role ALL", "1 piece ALL" and "RBB" are set as the lottery target. Is done. Further, in the internal RBB state, the lottery flag corresponding to the big bonus is maintained in the winning state until the big bonus is won, and when the symbol combination indicating the winning form of the big bonus is displayed on the valid line, the game state control is performed. The means 49 shifts the gaming state from the RBB internal medium state to the RBB operating state.

The RBB operating state is a gaming state in which the game shifts when the symbol combination indicating the winning form of the big bonus is displayed on the valid line. In the RBB operating state, the internal lottery is performed with reference to the internal lottery table in which the winning areas "unwinning", "small winning combination ALL" and "single piece ALL" are set as lottery targets. Further, in the RBB operating state, it is determined whether or not the end condition is satisfied based on the total number of medals paid out in the RBB operating state, and the number of medals exceeding a predetermined predetermined number (for example, 200) is determined. When paid out, the game state control means 49 terminates the RBB operating state and shifts the game state to the general middle state.
In the present embodiment, the end condition of the RBB operating state is determined by the total number of medals paid out, but the end condition is determined by the number of games played in the RBB operating state, the number of winning small wins, and the like. You may. Further, the RBB operating state may be one in which the end condition is set so as to end in one game.

The instruction function control means 51 includes a game section control means 80, an effect state control means 81, and a privilege granting means 82. The instruction function control means 51 performs a process related to the operation of the instruction function that assists the winning of a specific combination in the advantageous section. Specifically, when a predetermined combination is won, the instruction function control means 51 determines whether or not to perform an instruction effect to assist the winning of this combination. More specifically, the instruction function control means 51 determines whether or not to perform an instruction effect (batting order navigation effect) that notifies the correct batting order and assists the winning of the 10-card combination when the batting order bell is won. .. Then, based on this determination, the effect control means 100 causes the liquid crystal display 13 to execute the batting order navigation effect.

As shown in FIG. 27, the game section control means 80 performs a game section shift control process for shifting a game section between a non-advantageous section and an advantageous section according to the progress of the game. The non-advantageous section is a game section corresponding to the initial state among a plurality of types of game sections. In the non-advantageous section, the privilege granting means 82 performs the advantageous section transition lottery, and when the advantageous section transition lottery is won, the game section control means 80 shifts the game section to the advantageous section. Further, the advantageous section is a game section in which an upper limit value (here, 1500 times) is provided for the number of times the game can be played. Further, the instruction effect cannot be performed when the game section is set to the non-advantageous section, and the instruction effect can be performed only when the game section is set to the advantageous section. The game section control means 80 ends the advantageous section when the number of times the game is played in the advantageous section reaches the upper limit of 1500 times, and shifts the game section to the non-advantageous section.

In the non-advantageous section, the privilege granting means 82 performs a lottery (advantageous section transition lottery) for determining whether or not the transition to the advantageous section is possible at a predetermined opportunity. Specifically, the privilege granting means 82 has a predetermined role (for example, winning area "watermelon", "weak cherry 1", "weak cherry 2", "strong cherry", "chance eye", etc .: Based on the winning of the winning area (the winning area is called a rare role), a lottery (lottery for shifting to the advantageous section) is performed to determine whether or not the transition to the advantageous section is possible. Then, when the advantageous section transition lottery is won, the gaming section control means 80 shifts the gaming section from the non-advantageous section to the advantageous section.

Further, the game section control means 80 stores the advantageous section game number counter 65 provided in the RAM of the storage means 60, triggered by the game start operation with respect to the start lever 24, each time a game is played in the advantageous section. Increment processing is performed to add "1" to the value as a value corresponding to one game. The game section control means 80 does not add to the advantageous section game number counter 65 in the non-advantageous section. Further, at the time of transition from the non-advantageous section to the advantageous section, the stored value of the advantageous section game number counter 65 is "0". Then, when the stored value of the advantageous section game number counter 65 reaches the threshold value (upper limit value) "1500", the game section control means 80 considers that the end condition of the advantageous section is satisfied, and sets the game section from the advantageous section. Move to an advantageous section. That is, the upper limit of the number of games played in the advantageous section is set to 1500, and the games exceeding 1500 times are not continuously performed in the advantageous section.

Further, the game section control means 80 updates the stored value of the difference number counter 64 provided in the RAM of the storage means 60 by the difference number of medals in the advantageous section, and the value corresponding to the number of medals paid out (for example, 10). If one medal is paid out, it will be set to "10", and if no winning combination is made and no payout is made, it will be set to "0"), which corresponds to the number of medals used in the game. The value (for example, "3" when three cards are input) is subtracted to obtain the calculation result of the difference number in the game, and this calculation result is added to the stored value of the difference number counter 64. Perform update processing. The game section control means 80 does not add to the difference number counter 64 in the non-advantageous section. Further, at the time of transition from the non-advantageous section to the advantageous section, the stored value of the difference number counter 64 is "0". Then, the game section control means 80 determines that the end condition of the advantageous section is satisfied when the stored value of the difference number counter 64 exceeds the threshold value (for example, “2400”), and sets the game section from the advantageous section to the non-advantageous. Move to the section. The storage value of the difference number counter 64 is controlled so as not to fall below the initial value "0". For example, the storage value of the difference number counter 64 at the start of the game is "2", and as a result of playing the game, anytime If the winning combination is not won and the medal is not paid out, the calculation result of the difference number in the game becomes "-3", and when the calculation result of the difference number is added to the storage value of the difference number counter 64, the initial value is obtained. Although it falls below "0", the stored value of the difference number counter after the update is counted and stopped with the initial value "0" as the lower limit value. That is, an upper limit is set for the number of medals that can be obtained in the advantageous section, and the number of medals increased from the standard exceeds 2400, with the time when the number of medals decreases most in the advantageous section as the standard "0". In that case, the advantageous section ends. In addition, if there is a replay prize in a game, it will be treated as if the medals corresponding to the specified number of medals for the game were paid out in the replay prized game, and the difference will be calculated, and the replay prize will be free of charge. The next game to be provided may be treated as if medals corresponding to the specified number of medals inserted in the game have been inserted even if the actual medals have not been inserted, and the difference number may be calculated.

Further, the advantageous section indicator 18 is turned off in the non-advantageous section and turned on in the advantageous section.
It should be noted that the advantageous section indicator 18 does not need to be turned on at the same time as the transition to the advantageous section, and may be turned on before the first instruction effect is performed. Moreover, once it is turned on, it is not turned off until the advantageous section ends.

As shown in FIG. 27, the effect state control means 81 includes a plurality of types including a normal effect state, a non-AT effect state, a chance effect state, an AT effect state (instructed effect state), a low expected value effect state, and a special effect state. Performs the effect state transition control process to transfer the effect state between the effect states. As the transition condition of the effect state, one condition may be defined, or a plurality of conditions may be defined. When a plurality of conditions are set, the staging state may be changed by satisfying one of the plurality of predetermined conditions, and the plurality or all of the plurality of predetermined conditions may be set. The production state may be changed based on the establishment.

The normal effect state is an effect state corresponding to the initial state among a plurality of types of effect states. In the non-advantageous section, the effect state control means 81 sets the effect state to the normal effect state. In the normal effect state (non-advantageous section), the privilege granting means 82 performs the advantageous section transition lottery as described above, and when the transition to the advantageous section is determined in the advantageous section transition lottery, the effect state control means 81. Shifts the effect state to the non-AT effect state.

The non-AT effect state is an effect state that basically shifts when the advantageous section starts, and at the start of the advantageous section, the probability of shifting to the non-AT effect state is higher than the probability of shifting to another effect state. Is also set high. In the non-AT effect state, the privilege granting means 82 performs a lottery (CZ lottery) to determine whether or not to shift to the chance effect state. Specifically, the privilege granting means 82 performs a CZ lottery when a rare role is won in the non-AT production state. Then, when the transition to the chance effect state is determined based on the CZ lottery, the effect state control means 81 shifts the effect state to the chance effect state.

In the chance effect state, the privilege granting means 82 performs a lottery (AT lottery) for determining whether or not to shift to the AT effect state. Specifically, the privilege granting means 82 performs an AT lottery when a rare role is won in the chance production state. Then, when the transition to the AT effect state is determined based on the AT lottery, the effect state control means 81 shifts the effect state to the AT effect state. Specifically, when the AT lottery is won and it is decided to shift the effect state to the AT effect state, the privilege granting means 82 is a storage value of the AT set number counter 67 provided in the RAM of the storage means 60. Is set to a value "1" corresponding to one set of the AT effect state, and the right to shift to the AT effect state is given. The number of sets given by winning the AT lottery is not limited to one set, and may be two or more sets, and may be selected from a plurality of types of sets at the time of winning the AT lottery.

The effect state control means 81 shifts the effect state to the AT effect state when the value of the AT set number counter 67 is “1” or more in the chance effect state. Further, the effect state control means 81 performs a process of subtracting "1" from the stored value of the AT set number counter 67 when starting the AT effect state. Further, when the effect state control means 81 starts the AT effect state, the navigation number counter 66 provided in the RAM of the storage means 60 is set with a predetermined value corresponding to the number of batting order navigations for one set of the AT effect state. Set. The number of batting order navigations set here may be selected from a plurality of types of times, and in the gaming machine of the present embodiment, "10", "20", "30", "50". "Or" 100 "is determined at a predetermined opportunity.

Further, in the AT effect state, the privilege granting means 82 determines whether or not to increase the number of sets in the AT effect state (for example, when the rare role is won) (the duration of the AT effect state is determined). A lottery (additional lottery) is performed (determining whether to increase or not), and when an increase in the number of sets is determined based on the lottery result, a value corresponding to a predetermined number of sets is added to the AT set number counter 67. ..

When the batting order bell is won in the AT effect state, the instruction function control means 51 determines the execution of the batting order navigation effect that notifies the correct batting order. Further, when the execution of the batting order navigation effect is determined, the effect control means 100 causes the liquid crystal display 13 to display the correct batting order. Further, the instruction function control means 51 performs a process of subtracting "1" from the stored value of the navigation count counter 66 each time the batting order navigation effect is executed. Then, when the stored value of the navigation count counter 66 reaches the threshold value "0", the effect state control means 81 terminates one set of the AT effect state, assuming that the end condition of one set of the AT effect state is satisfied. ..

When the end condition of one set of the AT effect state is satisfied, the effect state control means 81 shifts the effect state to the low expected value effect state. In the low expected value effect state, the privilege granting means 82 performs a lottery to determine whether or not to increase the number of sets in the AT effect state at a predetermined opportunity (for example, when a rare role is won), and the lottery result is obtained. When an increase in the number of sets is determined based on this, a value corresponding to the predetermined number of sets is added to the AT set number counter 67.

In the low expected value production state, even if the batting order bell is won, the batting order navigation effect that notifies the correct batting order is not performed, and the number of medals decreases as the game is played. On the other hand, in the AT effect state, a batting order navigation effect that notifies the correct batting order when the batting order bell is won is performed, so that the player can increase the number of medals by performing a stop operation according to the batting order navigation effect. In other words, in the low expected value production state, the expected value regarding the increase number of medals is lower than the AT production state.
Although the batting order navigation effect may be performed even in the low expected value effect state, it is preferable to set the frequency of occurrence of the batting order navigation effect lower than that in the AT effect state.

Further, in the low expected value effect state, a predetermined number of games are executed. Here, the number of games played in the low expected value effect state may be determined based on a lottery or a predetermined condition. If the stored value of the AT set number counter 67 is "1" or more at the end of the predetermined number of games, the effect state control means 81 shifts the effect state to the AT effect state and the AT set number counter 67. Subtract "1" from the stored value of. On the other hand, if the storage value of the AT set number counter 67 is "0" at the end of the predetermined number of games, the effect state control means 81 shifts the effect state to the normal effect state. Further, when the effect state shifts to the normal effect state, the game section control means 80 shifts the game section from the advantageous section to the non-advantageous section.

Further, the effect state control means 81 shifts the effect state to the special effect state when a predetermined condition is satisfied in the advantageous section. Specifically, the privilege granting means 82 performs a lottery to determine whether or not to shift to the special production state in the advantageous section. Then, when the transition to the special effect state is determined based on the lottery, the effect state control means 81 shifts the effect state to the special effect state.

In the special effect state, the privilege granting means 82 determines whether or not to increase the number of sets in the AT effect state at a predetermined opportunity, and when the increase in the number of sets is determined, a value corresponding to the predetermined number of sets is set. Add to the AT set number counter 67. Further, in the special effect state, the expected value for the increase in the number of sets of the AT effect state is set higher than the non-AT effect state, the chance effect state, the AT effect state, and the low expected value effect state.

Further, when the state shifts to the special effect state, the privilege giving means 82 always increases the stored value of the AT set number counter 67 by 1 or more. Then, when the special effect state ends, the effect state control means 81 shifts the effect state to the AT effect state.

It should be noted that the normal effect state may be directly shifted to the chance effect state or the AT effect state. For example, in the advantageous section transition lottery, instead of simply deciding whether or not to shift to the advantageous section (non-AT effect state), the effect state is transferred to the AT effect state, the chance effect state, or the non-AT. It may be a lottery whether to shift to the production state or not to shift to the normal production state. In other words, the CZ lottery may be performed in an effect state other than the non-AT effect state (for example, a normal effect state), and the AT lottery may be performed in an effect state other than the chance effect state (for example, a normal effect state or a non-AT effect state). You may go.

In the chance effect state, the probability of transition to the AT effect state is higher than in the normal effect state and the non-AT effect state, and the effect state is more advantageous for the player than the normal effect state and the non-AT effect state. Further, in the chance effect state, the frequency at which the batting order navigation effect is performed is lower than that in the AT effect state, and the batting order navigation effect is hardly performed or is not performed at all. Further, in the non-AT effect state, the frequency at which the batting order navigation effect is performed is lower than that in the chance effect state, and the batting order navigation effect is hardly performed or is not performed at all.

In addition, even if the player wins the AT lottery and shifts from the chance production state to the AT production state, the transition from one production state to another production state may be performed after passing through another production state. good. For example, when the AT lottery is won, the AT effect state is not started immediately, but the chance effect state is changed to the AT effect state ready state (AT preparation effect state), and then the AT effect state is changed. May be.

Further, the AT effect state may be set according to the game state to be transferred based on the winning or winning of the bonus. For example, it may be possible to shift to the AT effect state when the gaming state is the RBB internal middle state, and it may not be possible to shift to the AT effect state in the general middle state or the RBB operating state. In other words, in the general middle state or the RBB operating state, for example, even if the AT lottery is won, the AT effect state may not be entered, or the AT lottery may not be performed.

In addition, if a bonus is won when the effect state is the AT effect state and the game state is the RBB internal medium state, after the end of the RBB operating state that shifts due to the winning of this bonus, the general medium state is used again. The AT effect state may be interrupted until the state shifts to the RBB internal medium state. That is, the batting order navigation effect may be stopped when the bonus is won, and the batting order navigation effect may be restarted when the RBB internal medium state is entered again.

The instruction function control means 51 initializes the information stored in the RAM of the storage means 60 as the information related to the instruction function when the advantageous section ends and the game section shifts to the normal section. Perform processing. Specifically, the instruction function control means 51 includes a storage value of the advantageous section game number counter 65, a storage value of the difference number counter 64, a flag related to the lottery related to the instruction function (lottery result), and a storage value of the AT set number counter 67. And the storage value of the navigation count counter 66 and the like are initialized. That is, the information related to the instruction function is not carried over across a plurality of advantageous sections. Further, when the initialization means 48 performs the above-mentioned initialization process performed when the set value is changed, the information related to the instruction effect shown here is also initialized.

When the batting order bell is won, the staging control means 100 notifies the correct batting order and provides an instruction staging (navigation staging) to assist the winning of the 10-card combination in the liquid crystal display 13 and the speaker 14. Controls to be executed by the staging device such as. When the batting order bell is won and the stop buttons 26a to 26c are pressed according to the correct batting order notified by the instruction staging, the 10-card combination wins and 10 medals can be obtained. ..
When performing the instruction effect, information indicating the correct batting order is also displayed on the 7-segment display of the game information display unit 17.

Next, the winning probability in the internal lottery in the gaming machine of the present embodiment will be described.
First, in the gaming machine of the present embodiment, only when the small winning combination 1 to the small winning combination 6 are won, more medals than the specified number of medals (3) are paid out, and the player can increase the number of medals on hand. can. The probability that at least one of the small winning combination 1 to the small winning combination 6 in the RBB operating state is won is lower than that of at least one of the small winning combination 1 to the small winning combination 6 in the RBB internal medium state, and the RBB operation is performed. In the medium state, it is more difficult for the player to increase the number of medals on hand than in the medium state inside the RBB. Further, when the effect state is the AT effect state, the player can increase the number of medals on hand by notifying the correct batting order of the batting order bell by the instruction effect. That is, in the case of the RBB internal medium state and the AT effect state, it is possible to make the situation more advantageous in terms of acquiring medals than the RBB operating state, and the player can keep the RBB internal medium state for a long period of time. Can be motivated to maintain.

Further, in the gaming machine of the present embodiment, in the RBB internal medium state, the replay or the small winning combination having a higher priority than the big bonus cannot be won, and the stop button 26a to the stop button 26a in a specific mode in the game lost in the internal lottery. If you do not press 26c, you will not be able to win the big bonus. Specifically, at the time of winning a replay or a small winning combination, the symbols constituting the winning form of the replay or the small winning combination can always be drawn onto the effective line in any reel. Even if the stop buttons 26a to 26c are pressed, the big bonus winning is avoided. Then, in the gaming machine of the present embodiment, when the game is played in the RBB internal medium state and the effect state is set to the AT effect state, the player can increase the number of medals held by the player without shifting the game state. You can do it.

Further, in the gaming machine of the present embodiment, the RBB operating state is set to a gaming state in which the medal acquisition performance is inferior to that of the general medium state and the RBB internal medium state, so that the entire gaming state can be achieved. While keeping the medal acquisition rate within a predetermined range based on social demands, it is possible to set a high probability of winning a small winning combination in the general medium state or the RBB internal medium state.

Specifically, in the gaming machine of the present embodiment, the specified number of medals inserted in each of the general medium state, the RBB internal medium state, and the RBB operating state is the same, and the number of medals inserted in each game state is not changed. In addition, a situation where the medal acquisition rate is low is generated by using the RBB operating state (so-called first-class special bonus) that performs an internal lottery with a higher probability of winning a small winning combination than the general middle state or the RBB internal middle state. ing. More specifically, in the general medium state or the internal medium state of the RBB, a winning area "small combination ALL" in which the small winning combinations 1 to 6 to be individually won are duplicated is provided in the RBB operating state, and in the RBB operating state. The internal lottery is performed so that the probability that the winning flag corresponding to each of the small winning combinations 1 to 6 is set to the winning state is higher than that in the general middle state or the RBB internal middle state. Further, the probability of winning the winning area "small winning combination ALL" in the RBB operating state is set to a higher probability than the probability of winning each of the batting order bells in each of the general medium state and the RBB internal medium state. In addition, the probability of winning the winning area "small winning combination ALL" in the RBB operating state is determined for each of the batting order bells containing the same small winning combination among the small winning combination 1 to 6 in each of the general medium state and the RBB internal medium state. Rather than the total probability of winning (for example, the probability of winning the winning area "Batting Order Bell 1A" and the probability of winning the winning area "Batting Order Bell 1B" for the batting order bell that the small winning combination 1 wins) It is set to a high probability. In addition, the probability that any of the winning areas related to the small winning combination will be won, that is, the probability of adding up the winning probabilities of each winning area related to the small winning combination, is higher in the RBB operating state than in the general middle state and the RBB internal middle state, respectively. An internal lottery is held so that the price will be higher. That is, in the RBB operating state, the winning probability of each of the small winning combinations 1 to 6 having a higher payout than the specified number of inputs is higher than that of the general medium state and the RBB internal medium state, and the winning probability of the entire small winning combination is also the general medium state. And the probability of winning in the winning area including the small winnings 1 to 6 with higher dividends than the specified number of inputs (the winning probability of the winning area "small winning ALL") is in the general middle state. Probability of winning in the winning area including small wins 1 to 6 in the internal medium state of RBB (winning area batting order bell 1A to "batting order bell 6A", "batting order bell 1B" to "batting order bell 6B" are added up. Since it is lower than the probability), the expected value of the medal acquisition rate in the RBB operating state can be lowered (for example, less than 100%). In particular, in the gaming machine of the present embodiment, there are 6 types (small wins 1 to 6) of specific small wins (small wins in which more medals are paid out than the number of inserted medals) that can be won in the correct batting order, and these are in the RBB operating state. By making duplicate winnings in, the expected value of the medal acquisition rate in the RBB operating state is reduced. That is, an internal lottery is performed by providing a mode in which N types of specific small winning combinations are won without overlapping each other in the general middle state and the RBB internal medium state, and N types of specific small winning combinations are won in duplicate in the RBB operating state. The probability that a winning mode including a specific small winning combination will be obtained in the RBB operating state by providing an internal lottery, and the probability that a winning mode including a specific small winning combination will be obtained in the general medium state and the RBB internal medium state. It can be compressed to about 1 / N. As a result, the lower limit of the expected value of the medal acquisition rate in the RBB operating state can be lowered to, for example, 100% or less, and then the medal acquisition performance related to the AT effect state can be designed. The degree of freedom in designing the game machine can be dramatically improved.

In addition, in the general middle state or the RBB internal middle state, the player cannot know the result of the internal lottery unless it is in the AT production state. It will be difficult and difficult to win medals. On the other hand, in the RBB operating state, any of the small winning combinations 1 to 6 can be won regardless of the mode of the stop operation when the winning area "small winning combination ALL" is won regardless of the gaming method. , Since small wins 9 to 38 can be won when the winning area "1 piece ALL" is won, in the case of not in the AT production state, even if the batting order is fixed and the game is played, the batting order is randomly selected for each game. Even when the game is selected and played, the expected value of the medal acquisition rate is higher in the RBB operating state than in the general middle state or the RBB internal middle state. However, in the AT effect state, an instruction effect for notifying the correct batting order is performed, so that the player can obtain a medal with a high probability if the player performs a stop operation according to the instruction effect, and the RBB is in the middle state and the AT effect. In the state of being in a state, it becomes possible to perform a game in which the expected value of winning a medal is high.

The display device 13 executes the effect by displaying the effect image on the display surface thereof. Further, the staging image displayed on the display device 13 is a composite image formed by superimposing a plurality of layers on which drawing materials (material images) are arranged. FIG. 28 is a diagram showing the concept of a layer on which drawing materials corresponding to each effect are arranged.

The effect screen displayed on the display device 13 is composed of, for example, 30 frames per second (hereinafter referred to as frames) (so-called frame rate of 30 fps). Therefore, for example, in the case of an effect pattern having a length of 1 minute, the effect screen is composed of a total of 1800 frames of 60 seconds × 30 frames in total. FIG. 28 shows a layer structure constituting one frame corresponding to the minimum unit.

When drawing one frame, the drawing material with the lowest priority is drawn one by one on the corresponding layer. For example, when one frame is composed of five drawing materials, the drawing material having the lowest priority (fifth priority) is first arranged in the lowest layer and drawn at a predetermined position. .. Next, the drawing material having the second lowest priority (fourth priority) is arranged in a layer higher than the layer on which the drawing material having the fifth priority is drawn and drawn at a predetermined position. In this way, the drawing materials are drawn one after another according to the priority, and finally the drawing material having the highest priority (first priority) is higher than the layer on which the drawing material having the second priority is drawn. It is arranged on the layer and drawn in a predetermined position. When all the drawing materials have been drawn on each layer, a composite image of these layers viewed from the upper side (front side) is displayed on the display device 13 as a composite image corresponding to the frame. In other words, when the composite image is viewed on the display device 13, the drawing material arranged on the lower layer is covered with the drawing material arranged on the upper layer. In other words, it can be said that the higher the layer, the higher the priority on the display in the display device 13. In the gaming machine of the present embodiment, each frame has N layers of layers 1 to N, the lower the number, the lower the display priority, and the higher the number, the higher the display priority. Is high.

The drawing process of each composite image is executed by using the frame buffer which is one area in the VRAM of the sub-side storage means 72. Drawing the new drawing material on the upper layer means drawing the new drawing material on top of the image buffered in the frame buffer. The drawing materials constituting a certain frame are drawn in the frame buffer in order from the lowest priority, and when all the drawing materials have been drawn, the completed composite image on the frame buffer is displayed as the image of the frame. Will be displayed in. The drawing material is stored in the drawing material storage area (ROM) of the sub-side storage means 72.

The number of layers is not particularly limited, and for example, tens to hundreds of layers may be specified. Further, each composite image is not always composed of drawing materials arranged on all layers, and unused layers may be generated as appropriate. Further, in the present embodiment, when the drawing material having a lower priority is drawn on top of the drawing material having a higher priority, the overlapped portion cannot be visually recognized. The transparency can be set, and this is not the case if the transparency set for the drawing material to be overlaid on top is not 0 (completely opaque). In some cases, the presence can be visually recognized in the frame image.

Here, by considering a plurality of layers (aggregates of a plurality of drawing materials) arranged at close positions as one group, one frame is composed of N layers and at the same time, a plurality of layers. It can also be seen as being composed of groups. For example, the frame shown in FIG. 28 is composed of three layer groups, and the layer group LG2 is superimposed on the layer group LG1 arranged at the bottom (the rearmost side when viewed from the display device 13). One frame image is completed by arranging the layer group LG3 on the top (the frontmost side when viewed from the display device 13).

The images constituting the effect screen are divided into, for example, background images, broadcast information, important information, and the like, and are arranged in each layer group LG1 to LG3 for each type of image. The priority of each image is generally the highest for important information, and is set lower in the order of notification information and background image. Drawing of one frame is performed in order from the lowest priority, and one frame image is synthesized by superimposing an image showing broadcast information on a background image and an image showing important information on the background image. The priorities shown here are just the main examples, and there are cases where the order is different.

For example, a background image having the lowest priority is drawn on the layer group LG1 located at the bottom. This background image is not a single drawing material as a whole, but a plurality of drawing materials are superimposed in order from the lowest priority to form one background image. The images arranged in the other layer groups LG2 and LG3 described below are configured in the same manner.

The layer group LG2 is superposed on the layer group LG1. A plurality of drawing materials constituting the broadcast information are drawn on the layer group LG2. Specifically, for example, an image of a counter, an image of batting order navigation, and the like are arranged.

The layer group LG3 is superposed on the layer group LG2. A plurality of drawing materials showing important information are drawn on the layer group LG3. The important information refers to, for example, information for notifying the prevention of immersiveness, a system message (error message), and the like. Since this information is particularly important for the game, it is set to have a high priority, and is drawn on the uppermost layer group LG3 so that it can be reliably visually recognized without being hidden by other images. The batting order navigation image may be placed on a layer higher than the system message such as an error message, but even in this case, the batting order prevention image may be placed on a layer higher than the batting order navigation image. desirable.

Next, the drawing of the broadcast information in the layer group LG2 will be described in more detail. Hereinafter, the layer group LG2 will be described as including nine layers of layers 21 to 29.

(Batting order navigation display)
When the instruction function control means 51 decides to perform the instruction effect, the effect control means 100 causes the display device 13 to execute the batting order navigation (batting order navigation display), which is one of the notification information. The batting order navigation display is a display of numbers, symbols, etc. at positions corresponding to the stop buttons 26a to 26c. In the batting order navigation display, for example, the numbers "1", "2", "3", and the exclamation mark "!" Are displayed. FIG. 29 is a diagram showing an example of batting order navigation display. In the present embodiment, the positions corresponding to the stop buttons 26a to 26c are located on the upper side of the stop buttons 26a to 26c (reels 20a to 20c) and on the lower side of the display surface of the display device 13. do. However, when displaying a telop or the like at that position, the display position of the batting order navigation can be set higher.

Hereinafter, when the batting order navigation display "3.1.2" is described, the number "3" is displayed at the position corresponding to the stop button 26a, and the number "1" is displayed at the position corresponding to the stop button 26b. , Means that the number "2" is displayed at the position corresponding to the stop button 26c. Further, the batting order navigation display "3.1.2" instructs the player to press the stop button 26b first, the stop button 26a second, and the stop button 26c third (). (Recommended) It can be said to be a display. Further, in the present embodiment, the display instructing the operation first (next) (“1” in FIG. 29) is displayed larger than the other displays (“2” and “3” in FIG. 29), and It is displayed brightly (that is, "2" and "3" are smaller than "1" and are darkened). By distinguishing the display corresponding to the stop button for instructing the operation first (next) from the other display in this way, it becomes easier for the player to recognize the stop button to be operated. In the state shown in FIG. 29, when the stop button 26b is pressed, the display of "1" is hidden, then the display of "2" is enlarged and "2" is turned bright.

When the batting order bell is won in the AT effect state and the batting order navigation display is displayed on the display device 13, the effect control means 100 arranges the material images 1, 2, and 3 on one layer (for example, layer 29). .. By arranging the material images of the batting order navigation display together in one layer in this way, the number of layers required for the batting order navigation effect can be reduced. This makes it possible to realize a batting order navigation effect even when there is no room in the number of layers that can be set. Further, since it is not necessary to control a plurality of layers, control management becomes easy. However, the staging control means 100 may arrange the material images 1, 2, and 3 on separate layers. In that case, it is necessary to control each layer, but there is an advantage that the degree of freedom of the display mode is increased because the control can be performed for each layer.

Since the batting order navigation display is a display related to an effect that assists the winning of a specific role, it is necessary to ensure its visibility. That is, the batting order navigation display must not be obstructed by other displays. The staging control means 100 arranges the material image of the batting order navigation display on the layer 29 of the layer group LG2 having the higher priority.

The staging control means 100 suggests that the layer having a lower priority than the batting order navigation display (layer 29) (for example, layers 27 and 28) is given a privilege related to the counter display and the instruction function. Place material images such as display (display of expectations for granting benefits) (UI display). The counter display is stored in the number of sets related to a predetermined effect state (for example, the number of sets of AT effect states executed), the number of games executed in a predetermined period, and the credit storage area of the storage means 60. Some show the number of stored cards and the number of medals paid out when a small winning combination is won. As a specific example of UI display, for example, there is one that displays a character and suggests the degree of expectation by the dialogue of the character or the color of the character.

It should be noted that the material image of another display may be arranged on the layer of the layer group LG3 having a higher priority than the layer on which the material image of the batting order navigation display is arranged. Other displays include a counter display, a UI display, and the like. In that case, the material image of the other display is arranged at a position that does not overlap with the material image of the batting order navigation display. Regarding the other display that is not displayed at the same timing as the batting order navigation display, the material image may be arranged at a position overlapping with the material image of the batting order navigation display.

(Design navigation display)
The effect control means 100 performs a symbol aiming effect for notifying the granting of the privilege related to the instruction function at a predetermined opportunity during the advantageous section. In this symbol aiming effect, the effect control means 100 causes an effect device such as a display device 13 to execute a notification for aiming at a specific symbol.
In the gaming machine of the present embodiment, the blue 7 aiming effect that notifies the blue 7 symbol "blue 7" as the specific symbol and the red 7 aiming the red 7 symbol "red 7" as the specific symbol are notified. 7 Aiming effect is executed. In the game in which the symbol aiming effect is executed, the expected value for granting the privilege related to the instruction function is higher than in the game in which the symbol aiming effect is not executed. Hereinafter, the game in which the blue 7 aiming effect is executed is referred to as a blue 7 aiming game, and the game in which the red 7 aiming effect is executed is referred to as a red 7 aiming game.

The privilege granting means 82 performs a privilege granting lottery at a predetermined opportunity during the advantageous section. One of the benefits given by this privilege grant lottery is the red 7 aiming game. In the red 7 aiming game of this example, the player aims to display a predetermined symbol (in the example of FIG. 31, the cherry symbol "CH" is displayed in the upper row, and the red 7 is displayed in the middle row. It is a game that can stop the rotating reel (press the stop button) while aiming to display the symbol "Red 7" and to display the cherry symbol "CH" in the lower row). .. Here, "displaying" means displaying a symbol at a predetermined position among the upper, middle, and lower rows in the frame via the display window 16 (see FIG. 22). "Aiming" means performing a stop operation so that the targeted symbol stops at a predetermined position among the upper, middle, and lower stages.
In the red 7 aiming game, when the stop button is pressed aiming at displaying a predetermined symbol (when the stop button is pressed at a timing when the predetermined symbol can be displayed), the reel is stopped. The predetermined symbol is displayed. However, even when the stop button is pressed with the aim of displaying a predetermined symbol, the predetermined symbol may not be displayed (so-called ghost).
The privilege granting means 82 performs a red 7 aiming game granting lottery as a privilege granting lottery when the effecting state is the chance producing state or the AT producing state during the advantageous section. When the privilege granting means 82 decides to grant the red 7 aiming game by performing the red 7 aiming game granting lottery, in the red 7 aiming game, the staging control means 100 is the symbol navigation display (red 7) which is one of the notification information. Aiming effect) is executed by the display device 13. This red 7 aiming effect is an effect of notifying the target symbol (that is, the red 7 symbol "red 7") in the red 7 aiming game.

The symbol navigation display is an effect (display) for notifying the target symbol in a predetermined game, and can be said to be a display related to the pressing timing of the stop buttons 26a, 26b, 26c. Further, the symbol navigation display is a display corresponding to the symbols existing on the reels 20a to 20c, and an image corresponding to a predetermined symbol arranged on the outer peripheral surface of the reels 20a to 20c is displayed. In other words, the symbol navigation display is a display corresponding to the symbols of the reels 20a to 20c regarding the pressing timing of the stop buttons 26a, 26b, 26c.

In the symbol navigation display, for example, as shown in FIG. 30, the red 7 symbol "red 7", the blue 7 symbol "blue 7", the BAR symbol "BAR", and the special symbol A "SPA" are on the outer peripheral surfaces of the reels 20a to 20c. , Special symbol B "SPB", replay symbol "RP", bell symbol "BL", watermelon symbol "WM" and cherry symbol "CH" are arranged, the images corresponding to these symbols are displayed. The symbols 20a to 20c of the reels 20a to 20c may not have a one-to-one correspondence with the image displayed on the display device 13, and for example, similar symbols (special symbol A “SPA” and special symbol B “SPB”” may not be associated with each other. ) May be displayed on the display device 13 without distinguishing between them.

The effect control means 100 arranges the material image of the symbol navigation display on a layer lower than the layer on which the material image of the batting order navigation display is arranged. The display position (placement position of the material image) of the symbol navigation display is a position corresponding to the reel to be stopped (stop button to be operated). For example, in a state where the batting order navigation display "1" is displayed above the rotating reel 20b, the reel 20b is aimed at displaying the cherry symbol in the upper row, the red 7 symbol in the middle row, and the cherry symbol in the lower row. When stopping (operating the stop button 26b), the image corresponding to these three symbols (symbol navigation display) is displayed above the reel 20b (above the batting order navigation "1") (see FIG. 31).

At this time, if part or all of the symbol navigation display (lower layer) is covered by the batting order navigation display (upper layer) and the visibility of the symbol navigation display is significantly impaired, the player should aim for the symbol. There is a risk that the reel cannot be grasped, or the player mistakenly recognizes the symbol to be aimed at, and the reel is stopped by aiming at a different symbol (that is, the eye is mistakenly pressed). The same problem occurs when a material image of a display other than the batting order navigation display (for example, a material image of a counter display) is placed on a layer higher than the symbol navigation display, and the visibility of the symbol navigation display is significantly impaired. Occurs.

In the present embodiment, the effect control means 100 converts the material image (first image showing the target symbol) (first image of the display corresponding to the predetermined symbol) of the symbol navigation display into a lower layer (first layer). In addition to arranging the material image (second image) of a predetermined display (striking order navigation display, counter display, etc.), a part of the first image is hidden in a layer (second layer) higher than the first layer. When arranging, the first image and the second image are arranged so that the target symbol (straight diagram) (the predetermined symbol) can be recognized, and a composite image is generated.
Here, "the target symbol can be recognized" means that at least the characteristic portion of the symbol represented by the material image (first image) of the symbol navigation display is arranged in the upper layer of the material image (second image) of the predetermined display. It means that it does not overlap with the image). That is, it means that at least the feature portion of the pattern represented by the first image is not hidden by the second image. That is, it means that at least the feature portion of the design represented by the first image can be visually recognized. When the effect control means 100 arranges the material image (first image) of the symbol navigation display on the lower layer, at least the feature portion of the symbol represented by the first image is arranged on the upper layer. It can be said that the first image and the second image are arranged so as to be positioned so as not to overlap with the material image (second image) of.

It is preferable that there is no overlapping part between the first image of the symbol navigation display and the second image of the predetermined display arranged on the layer higher than that, but due to the limitation of the display space, the two are overlapped. May have to be placed. Even in that case, by preventing the feature portion of the symbol represented by the first image from being covered by the second image, the player can grasp what the target symbol is. That is, the visibility of the target design is not impaired. As a result, it is possible to suppress a decrease in playability.

FIG. 31 shows an example (No. 1) of the display when the symbol navigation effect (red 7 aiming effect) is performed. In this example, the batting order 4 is the correct batting order (the state in which the middle stop button 26b should be pressed first). A material image of the symbol navigation display 520 is arranged on a layer having a low priority (for example, layer 21) in the layer group LG2. Further, on a layer above it (for example, layer 22), a material image of a message display 530 (“Aim!”) Showing instructions to the player and the like is arranged. Further, the material image of the display group 540 is arranged on the layer (for example, layers 23 to 26) above the layer on which the material image of the message display 530 is arranged. In this example, the display group 540 has a first counter display 541 (layer 23) indicating the number of sets related to a predetermined effect state (for example, an AT effect state) and a second counter indicating the number of games executed in a predetermined period. Display 542 (layer 24), third counter display 543 (layer 25) showing the number of stored items stored in the credit storage area and the number of medals paid out when a small winning combination is won, and granting benefits related to the instruction function. There is a UI display 544 (layer 26) that gives suggestions regarding. Further, the material image of the batting order navigation display 550 is arranged on the layer (for example, layer 29) above the layer on which the material image of the display group 540 is arranged. The material image of the character display 510 is arranged on the lowest layer (layer of the layer group LG1).

In FIG. 31, the material image of the message display 530 may be arranged on the same layer as the layer on which the material image of the symbol navigation display 520 is arranged. Further, the layer in which the material image of each display of the display group 540 is arranged is not limited to this, and may be appropriately arranged in a layer lower than the batting order navigation display 550, and the material image of two or more displays in the same layer. May be arranged. Further, the material image of the predetermined display in the display group 540 may be arranged in a layer lower than the layer in which the material image of the symbol navigation display 520 is arranged (that is, the visibility of the symbol navigation display 520 may be improved. May be prioritized).
Further, although it is assumed that the material images of the three symbols of the symbol navigation display 520 are arranged on the same layer, even if they are arranged on different layers (layers having a lower priority in the layer group LG2). good. Further, although it is assumed that the material images of the three numbers of the batting order navigation display 550 are arranged on the same layer, even if they are arranged on different layers (layers having high priority in the layer group LG2). good.

The symbol navigation display 520 is located above the batting order navigation display "1". The upper cherry symbol display in the symbol navigation display 520 is a display instructing (aiming) to stop the reel 20b so that the upper symbol of the reel 20b becomes the cherry symbol “CH”. The red 7 symbol display in the middle row of the symbol navigation display 520 is a display instructing (aiming) to stop the reel 20b so that the middle symbol of the reel 20b becomes the red 7 symbol “red 7”. The lower cherry symbol display in the symbol navigation display 520 is a display instructing (aiming) to stop the reel 20b so that the lower symbol of the reel 20b becomes the cherry symbol “CH”.
The image of the red 7 symbol display in the middle row in the symbol navigation display 520 is not entirely covered with the image arranged in the layer higher than that. That is, the staging control means 100 arranges the red 7 symbol image so that the target symbol can be recognized. Therefore, the player can recognize that the symbol aimed at the middle stage of the reel 20b is the red 7 symbol “red 7”.
The image of the lower cherry symbol display in the symbol navigation display 520 partially overlaps with the image of the batting order navigation display "1" whose lower end is arranged on a layer higher than that. Here, "the characteristic portion of the cherry symbol can be visually recognized" means that at least a part of the red portion and at least a part of the green portion of the cherry symbol "CH" can be visually recognized. When at least a part of the red part and at least a part of the green part can be visually recognized, the player can recognize (grasp) the cherry pattern. For example, if the green part is completely covered (hidden) and only the red part is visible, the player may mistakenly recognize the red 7 symbol. In this example, the frame line (black) of the cherry pattern "CH" can also be visually recognized.
In the example shown in FIG. 31, the staging control means 100 arranges the cherry symbol image so that the feature portion of the cherry symbol “CH” does not overlap with the image of the batting order navigation display “1”. That is, the effect control means 100 arranges the cherry symbol image and the image of the batting order navigation display "1" so that the target symbol (cherry symbol "CH") can be recognized. Therefore, the player can recognize that the symbol aimed at the lower part of the reel 20b is the cherry symbol “CH”.
The image of the cherry symbol display in the upper row of the symbol navigation display 520 partially overlaps with the image of the first counter display 541 whose upper end is arranged on a layer higher than that. At this time, the staging control means 100 arranges the cherry symbol image so that the feature portion of the cherry symbol “CH” does not overlap with the image of the first counter display 541. That is, the staging control means 100 arranges the cherry symbol image and the image of the first counter display 541 so that the target symbol can be recognized. Therefore, the player can recognize that the symbol aimed at in the upper row is the cherry symbol "CH".

In the case of a symbol having a plurality of colors, the fact that the feature portion of the symbol can be visually recognized means that, for example, all or a part of each color can be visually recognized. It is preferable that all the colors included in the design can be visually recognized, but the color of the portion where the display area occupied by the symbol is very small as compared with other portions may not be visually recognizable. Further, when a character (character's face) or a character is included in the symbol, the fact that the feature portion of the symbol is visible means that the character or the character portion can be visually recognized. For example, in the red 7 symbol "Red 7", a character or a character may be included in a part of the symbol.
The characteristic part of the design will be specifically described. At least two similar embodiments (designs) may be provided for the same type of symbol. Here, it is assumed that the BAR symbol A "BARA" and the BAR symbol B "BARB" are provided. FIG. 46 (a) shows the BAR symbol A “BARA”, and FIG. 46 (b) shows the BAR symbol B “BARB”. Both symbols include a character portion, and this character portion (that is, the inside of the thick frame) is a characteristic portion of both symbols. The character part is different between the two symbols (specifically, the orientation of the character's face and the position of the character's arm are different), and the feature part of the symbol is different (difference) between similar symbols. Department) can also be said.
Further, when a plurality of parts (face and arm) are included as in the character part (characteristic part of the pattern) shown in FIGS. 46 (a) and 46 (b), the feature part may be divided into a plurality of feature parts. good. FIGS. 46 (c) and 46 (d) show a case where the feature portion is divided into a first feature portion (face) and a second feature portion (arm). Comparing FIGS. 46 (c) and 46 (d), the first feature portion and the second feature portion are different between the two symbols.
When arranging a symbol image of a predetermined symbol, the staging control means 100 prevents the feature portion of the predetermined symbol from overlapping with an image such as a batting order navigation display or a counter display (so that it is not covered with another image). However, when a predetermined symbol has at least two feature parts, one of the feature parts (a part of the feature part) is arranged so as not to be covered with another image, and the other features are arranged. The part can be arranged so as to be covered with another image. That is, if all the feature parts (entire feature parts) are not covered, some feature parts may be covered.
In FIGS. 46 (c) and 46 (d), if the second feature portion, which is the difference between the two symbols, is not covered by another image (if it is visible), the first feature portion is the other image. It may be covered with (it may be invisible). Alternatively, if the first feature portion, which is the difference between the two symbols, is not covered (if it is visible), the second feature portion may be covered with another image (invisible). It may be).

FIG. 32 shows an example (No. 2) of the display when the symbol navigation effect (red 7 aiming effect) is performed. In this example, the batting order 6 is the correct batting order (the right stop button 26c should be pressed first). Further, in the red 7 aiming game of this example, the player aims to display the BAR symbol "BAR" in the upper row, and the replay symbol "RP" is displayed in the middle row, and is red in the lower row. 7 This is a game in which the rotating reel can be stopped (press the stop button) with the aim of displaying the symbol "red 7".
The symbol navigation display 520 is located diagonally to the upper right of the batting order navigation display "1". The upper BAR symbol display in the symbol navigation display 520 is a display instructing (aiming) to stop the reel 20c so that the upper symbol of the reel 20c becomes the BAR symbol "BAR". The middle replay symbol display in the symbol navigation display 520 is a display instructing (aiming) to stop the reel 20c so that the middle symbol of the reel 20c becomes the replay symbol "RP". The lower red 7 symbol display in the symbol navigation display 520 is a display instructing (aiming) to stop the reel 20b so that the lower symbol of the reel 20c becomes the red 7 symbol “red 7”.

The image of the upper BAR symbol display in the symbol navigation display 520 is not entirely covered with the image arranged in the layer higher than that. That is, the staging control means 100 arranges the BAR symbol image so that the target symbol can be recognized. Therefore, the player can recognize that the symbol aimed at the upper stage of the reel 20c is the BAR symbol "BAR".
The image of the replay symbol display in the middle row in the symbol navigation display 520 is not entirely covered with the image arranged in the layer higher than that. That is, the staging control means 100 arranges the replay symbol image so that the target symbol can be recognized. Therefore, the player can recognize that the symbol aimed at the middle stage of the reel 20c is the replay symbol "RP".

In the lower red 7 symbol display in the symbol navigation display 520, a part of the red 7 symbol "red 7" is composed of the characters "fighting spirit". The image of the red 7 symbol display partially overlaps with the image of the batting order navigation display "1" whose upper end is arranged on a layer higher than that. At this time, the staging control means 100 arranges the red 7 symbol image so that the characteristic portion of the red 7 symbol “red 7” (that is, the character portion “fighting spirit”) does not overlap with the image of the batting order navigation display “1”. I'm letting you. That is, the effect control means 100 arranges the red 7 symbol image and the image of the batting order navigation display "1" so that the target symbol can be recognized. Therefore, the player can recognize that the symbol aimed at the lower row is the red 7 symbol “red 7”.

If the image of the red 7 symbol display is placed above (directly above) the image of the batting order navigation display "1", the "fighting spirit" which is the characteristic part of the red 7 symbol "red 7" will be the batting order navigation display "1". It is difficult for the player to recognize that the symbol aimed at the lower row is the red 7 symbol "Red 7". In this example, the effect control means 100 sets the image of the symbol navigation display 520 on the right side of the display surface of the display device 13 (on the diagonally upper right side of the batting order navigation display "1"), and the batting order navigation display is arranged on the upper layer. It is arranged at a position that does not overlap with the image of 550 and the image of the second counter display 542.

As shown in FIG. 32, when the batting order navigation display "1" corresponds to the stop button 26c, or when the batting order navigation display "1" corresponds to the stop button 26a although not shown, the effect control means 100 Is the symbol navigation display 520 (display in which three symbols are arranged in the vertical direction), and its center (center in the left-right direction) is outside the center (center in the left-right direction) of the batting order navigation display "1" (outside in the left-right direction). Can be displayed so as to be. In FIG. 32, the display position of the symbol navigation display 520 is the diagonally upper right side of the batting order navigation display “1”. In this way, even when the display position of the symbol navigation display 520 is shifted with respect to the display position of the batting order navigation display "1", it can be recognized that the stop button to be pressed first is the stop button 26a or the stop button 26c.

When the batting order navigation display "1" corresponds to the stop button 26b as shown in FIG. 31, the staging control means 100 centers on the symbol navigation display 520 (display in which three symbols are arranged in the vertical direction). (Center in the left-right direction) is set to match or substantially coincide with the center (center in the left-right direction) of the batting order navigation display "1" and displayed. If the display position of the symbol navigation display 520 is shifted to the left or right with respect to the display position of the batting order navigation display "1", it is mistakenly recognized that the stop button to be pressed first is the stop button 26a or the stop button 26c. This is because there is a risk that it will end up.

When the display position of the symbol navigation display 520 is the left and right display positions (FIG. 32 shows the display position on the right), the sizes of the upper, middle, and lower symbol displays of the symbol navigation display 520 are substantially the same. ing. In other words, there is a display space, and the sizes of the upper, middle, and lower symbol displays of the symbol navigation display 520 can be made substantially the same. On the other hand, when the display position of the symbol navigation display 520 is the center display position (FIG. 31), there is a limitation of the display space, and the upper and lower columns of the symbol navigation display 520 with respect to the symbol display in the middle of the symbol navigation display 520. The ratio of the size of the symbol display is small (the size of the symbol display in the upper and lower rows of the symbol navigation display 520 is smaller than the size of the symbol display in the middle row of the symbol navigation display 520).

FIG. 45 shows the batting order navigation display in the display example shown in FIG. 32 in which the batting order 4 is the correct batting order (the middle stop button 26b should be pressed first). FIG. 45A shows before the stop button 26b corresponding to the batting order navigation display “1” is pressed. FIG. 45B shows after the stop button 26b corresponding to the batting order navigation display “1” is pressed. The display size of the batting order navigation display "2" is smaller than that of the batting order navigation display "1" before the stop button 26b is pressed (before the batting order navigation display "1" is hidden). After the stop button 26b is pressed (after the batting order navigation display "1" is hidden), the display size is expanded to the same display size as the hidden batting order navigation display "1". Regardless of the display size (reduced size or enlarged size) of the batting order navigation display "2", the staging control means 100 displays the red 7 symbol image and the feature portion of the red 7 symbol "red 7" (that is,). The character part "fighting spirit") is arranged so as not to overlap with the image of the batting order navigation display "2". That is, the effect control means 100 arranges the red 7 symbol image and the batting order navigation display “2” image so that the target symbol (predetermined symbol) can be recognized. Therefore, the player can recognize that the symbol aimed at the lower row is the red 7 symbol “red 7”.

The privilege granting means 82 performs a privilege granting lottery at a predetermined opportunity during the advantageous section. One of the benefits given by this privilege grant lottery is the blue 7 aiming game. This blue 7 aiming game is a game in which the player can stop the rotating reel (press the stop button) aiming at displaying the blue 7 symbol "blue 7". In the blue 7 aiming game, when the stop button is pressed aiming at displaying the blue 7 symbol "blue 7" (the stop button is pressed at the timing when the blue 7 symbol "blue 7" can be displayed. Case), the reel stops and the blue 7 symbol "blue 7" is displayed. However, even when the stop button is pressed with the aim of displaying the blue 7 symbol "blue 7", the blue 7 symbol "blue 7" may not be displayed (so-called ghost).
The privilege granting means 82 performs a blue 7 aiming game granting lottery as a privilege granting lottery when the effecting state is the special producing state during the advantageous section. When the privilege granting means 82 decides to grant the blue 7 aiming game by performing the blue 7 aiming game granting lottery, in the blue 7 aiming game, the staging control means 100 is the symbol navigation display (blue 7) which is one of the notification information. Aiming effect) is executed by the display device 13. This blue 7 aiming effect is an effect of notifying the target symbol (that is, the blue 7 symbol "blue 7") in the blue 7 aiming game.

FIG. 33 shows an example of the display when the symbol navigation effect (blue 7 aiming effect) is performed. In this example, the batting order 4 is the correct batting order (the state in which the middle stop button 26b should be pressed first). Further, in this example, a fourth counter display 545 (one of the display groups 540) indicating the number of medals won in a predetermined period is displayed on the upper right of the display device 13. Further, in this example, the second counter display 542 is the remaining number of games that can be executed in a predetermined period.

The symbol navigation display 520 is located diagonally to the upper right of the batting order navigation display "2". The blue 7 symbol display as the symbol navigation display 520 instructs to stop the reels 20a to 20c so that the blue 7 symbols "blue 7" are displayed in a straight line on the reels 20a to 20c. It is a display (to aim). Since the target symbols (blue 7 symbols) are the same on the reels 20a to 20c (in all batting order), one blue 7 symbol is displayed.

The image of the blue 7 symbol display is not completely covered with the image arranged in the layer higher than the image. That is, the staging control means 100 arranges the blue 7 symbol image so that the target symbol can be recognized. Therefore, the player can recognize that the symbol aimed at aligning the reels 20a to 20c is the blue 7 symbol “blue 7”.

In this example, since the blue 7 symbol image is arranged in the upper right of the batting order navigation display “2”, the facial feature portion in the character display 510 arranged in the lower layer is not covered.

In the present embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 31 and 32, when three symbols are displayed as the symbol navigation display, the feature portion of each symbol is arranged so that another image of the upper layer does not overlap. did. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the arrangement may be as follows.
(Another example of arrangement 1)
Of the three symbols displayed in the symbol navigation display, the symbol on the effective line (for example, the symbol in the middle row) is arranged so that another image of the upper layer does not overlap with the feature portion. At this time, a part or all of the upper symbol and the lower symbol (the symbol on the invalid line) may be covered with another image of the upper layer.
(Another example of placement 2)
Of the three symbols displayed in the symbol navigation display, the symbols on the effective line (for example, the symbols in the middle row) are arranged so that the different images of the upper layer do not overlap with all the portions including the feature portion. At this time, a part or all of the upper symbol and the lower symbol (the symbol on the invalid line) may be covered with another image of the upper layer.
(Another example of arrangement 3)
When displaying a symbol (including a symbol on an invalid line) aligned in a straight line on the left middle right reels 20a to 20c as a symbol of the symbol navigation display, the symbol includes a feature part or a feature part. Arrange all parts so that different images on the upper layer do not overlap.

Further, in the present embodiment, the material image of the symbol navigation display is arranged in a layer lower than the layer in which the material image of the batting order navigation display is arranged, but the material image of the batting order navigation display is displayed in the batting order navigation display. It may be arranged on the same layer as the layer on which the material image of is arranged. Even in this case, the effect control means 100 arranges the material image (first image) of the symbol navigation display on the first layer, and the second image of the predetermined display (counter display, etc.) is higher than the first layer. When arranging on the second layer, the first image and the second image are arranged so that the target symbol can be recognized.

Further, in the present embodiment, numbers and symbols are displayed as the batting order navigation display, but the symbol navigation display may be displayed as a part of the batting order navigation display. In other words, the symbol navigation display may substitute (also serve as) a part of the batting order navigation display. For example, as shown in FIG. 34 (a), the symbol navigation display "Red 7 symbol" is displayed at the position corresponding to the stop button 26a, and the batting order navigation display "2" is displayed at the position corresponding to the stop button 26b. The batting order navigation display "3" may be displayed at the position corresponding to the stop button 26c. The symbol navigation display "red 7 symbol" at this time aims to display the red 7 symbol, and instructs to press the stop button 26a first. Further, the number of symbols in the symbol navigation display is not limited to one, and as shown in FIG. 34 (b), three symbols (for example, the upper row of the symbol navigation display: the replay symbol display, the middle row of the symbol navigation display: cherry). The display corresponding to the lower part of the symbol display and the symbol navigation display: red 7 symbol display) may be displayed.

The material image of the symbol navigation display that also serves as the batting order navigation may be the same layer as the layer on which the material image of the batting order navigation display is arranged, or may be a different layer. The staging control means 100 arranges the material image (first image) corresponding to the pattern navigation display that also serves as the batting order navigation display on the first layer, and arranges the second image corresponding to the predetermined display on the first layer. When arranging it on the second layer, the first image is arranged so that the target symbol can be recognized.

(Fourth Embodiment)
Next, a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described.
Since the gaming machine of the present embodiment basically has the same configuration as the gaming machine of the third embodiment, the same configuration as the gaming machine of the third embodiment will be described. Is omitted or simplified. Further, the configuration according to the present embodiment can be combined with the configuration according to the configuration other than the third embodiment.
(Blue 7 aiming production)
The privilege granting means 82 performs a privilege granting lottery at a predetermined opportunity during the advantageous section. One of the benefits given by this privilege grant lottery is the blue 7 aiming game. This blue 7 aiming game is a game in which the player can stop the rotating reel (press the stop button) aiming at displaying the blue 7 symbol "blue 7". "Aiming" means performing a stop operation so that the target symbol stops at a predetermined position among the upper, middle, and lower stages. In the blue 7 aiming game, when the stop button is pressed aiming at displaying the blue 7 symbol "blue 7" (the stop button is pressed at the timing when the blue 7 symbol "blue 7" can be displayed. Case), the reel stops and the blue 7 symbol "blue 7" is displayed. However, even when the stop button is pressed with the aim of displaying the blue 7 symbol "blue 7", the blue 7 symbol "blue 7" may not be displayed (so-called ghost).
The privilege granting means 82 performs a blue 7 aiming game granting lottery as a privilege granting lottery when the effecting state is the special producing state during the advantageous section. When the privilege granting means 82 decides to grant the blue 7 aiming game by performing the blue 7 aiming game granting lottery, in the blue 7 aiming game, the staging control means 100 is the symbol navigation display (blue 7) which is one of the notification information. Aiming effect) is executed by the display device 13. This blue 7 aiming effect is an effect of notifying the target symbol (that is, the blue 7 symbol "blue 7") in the blue 7 aiming game (the effect of notifying the blue 7 symbol "blue 7"). The staging control means 100 displays on the display device 13 a predetermined display capable of recognizing the target symbol (blue 7 symbol “blue 7”).

In this example, when the reels 20a to 20c are stopped in the blue 7 aiming game and the blue 7 symbol "blue 7" is displayed so as to line up in a straight line, the privilege granting means 82 grants the privilege (acquires the privilege). To make) decide. In this example, the privilege is an increase in the number of sets in the AT production state. On the other hand, when the reels 20a to 20c are stopped in the blue 7 aiming game and the blue 7 symbols "blue 7" are not displayed in a straight line, the privilege granting means 82 determines not to grant the privilege.

A case where the blue 7 aiming effect is executed will be described with reference to FIGS. 35 and 36. It should be noted that FIGS. 35 and 36 show a case where the blue 7 aiming effect is executed together with the batting order navigation effect. That is, the effect control means 100 shows a case where the symbol navigation display “blue 7 symbol” is displayed on the display device 13 together with the batting order navigation display. The notation "blue 7 symbol" in the symbol navigation display indicates that an image (one) corresponding to the blue 7 symbol "blue 7" on the reel is displayed.

FIG. 35A shows a blue 7 aiming game, and shows a display when the start lever 24 is operated. The staging control means 100 displays the batting order navigation display “3.2.1” and the symbol navigation display “blue 7 symbol”. When the blue 7 aiming effect is executed, there is a possibility that the blue 7 symbols "blue 7" are aligned in a straight line on the left middle right reels 20a to 20c. The blue 7 symbol "blue 7" may be aligned on the effective line or may be aligned outside the effective line. In the present embodiment, the symbol navigation display "blue 7 symbol" corresponds to the blue 7 symbol "blue 7" which may stop at a position off the effective line (middle stage of the reel 20c) on at least one reel. It is a symbol display (direct drawing) on the display device 13.
Although not shown, the staging control means 100 also displays a character display, a counter display, and the like.

FIG. 35B is one of the displays when the first stop operation is performed in the blue 7 aiming game. In the state shown in FIG. 35 (a), the stop button 26c is pressed according to the batting order navigation and at the timing when the blue 7 symbol "blue 7" of the reel 20c is stopped and displayed at any of the upper, middle, and lower rows (No. 3). It is a display when 1 stop operation) is performed. This is called the success of the first stop operation. This "successful first stop operation" means that the blue 7 symbol "blue 7" is stopped in any of the upper, middle, and lower rows (blue 7 symbol "blue 7" is displayed at a predetermined position), and the middle left. It means that there is still a possibility that the blue 7 symbol "blue 7" can be aligned on the right reels 20a to 20c. The staging control means 100 displays the batting order navigation display "3.2 / erase" in which "1" is hidden ("1" is deleted) and the symbol navigation display "blue", triggered by the first stop operation. Do not hide "7 symbols" (leave it displayed).

FIG. 35 (c) is one of the displays when the second stop operation is performed in the blue 7 aiming game. In the state shown in FIG. 35 (b), the stop button is displayed at the timing when the blue 7 symbol "blue 7" on the reel 20b stops in a straight line with the blue 7 symbol "blue 7" on the reel 20c according to the batting order navigation. This is a display when 26b is pressed (second stop operation). This is called the success of the second stop operation. This "successful second stop operation" means that the two blue 7 symbols "blue 7" stop in a straight line (blue 7 symbol "blue 7" is displayed at a predetermined position), and the left middle right reel 20a It means that there is still a possibility that the blue 7 symbol "blue 7" can be aligned at ~ 20c. The staging control means 100 further displays the batting order navigation display "3 / erase / erase" in which "2" is hidden (erased) and displays the symbol navigation display "blue 7 symbol" in the wake of the second stop operation. Do not hide (leave it visible).

FIG. 35 (d) is one of the displays when the third stop operation is performed in the blue 7 aiming game. In the state shown in FIG. 35 (c), according to the batting order navigation, the blue 7 symbol "blue 7" of the reel 20a is stopped so as to be aligned with the blue 7 symbol "blue 7" of the reel 20b and the reel 20c. This is a display when the stop button 26a is pressed (third stop operation) at the displayed timing. This is called the success of the third stop operation. This "successful third stop operation" means that the three blue 7 symbols "blue 7" are stopped in a straight line (all of the blue 7 symbols "blue 7" are displayed in predetermined positions) and aligned. It means that. When the stop buttons 20a to 20c are operated according to the batting order navigation and the blue 7 symbols "blue 7" are aligned (that is, the first stop operation is successful and the second stop operation is successful and the third stop operation is successful). If the stop operation is successful), it is decided to grant the privilege. Further, the staging control means 100 hides the batting order navigation display "3 / erase / erase" and does not hide the symbol navigation display "blue 7 symbol" (while it is displayed), triggered by the third stop operation. ).

FIG. 35 (e) is one of the displays after the third release operation in the blue 7 aiming game. The above "third stop operation" refers to the timing when the press of the third stop button is detected, while the "third release operation" refers to the timing when the release of the press of the third stop button is detected. .. The staging control means 100 hides the symbol navigation display "blue 7 symbol" triggered by the third release operation, and notifies the determination (confirmation) of the granting of the privilege (acquisition of the privilege) ("CHANGE" image). Is displayed. In this example, an increase in the number of sets in the AT effect state is notified. The effect control means 100 may hide the symbol navigation display "blue 7 symbol" with the third stop operation as an opportunity.

FIG. 36A is one of the displays when the first stop operation is performed in the blue 7 aiming game. In the state shown in FIG. 35 (a), the batting order navigation is followed, but the stop button 26c is pressed at the timing when the blue 7 symbol "blue 7" of the reel 20c is stopped in any of the upper, middle, and lower rows and is not displayed (No. 3). It is a display when 1 stop operation) is performed. This is called the failure of the first stop operation. This "failure in the first stop operation" means that the blue 7 symbol "blue 7" does not stop in any of the upper, middle, and lower rows (the first stop operation puts the blue 7 symbol "blue 7" in a predetermined position. This means that the possibility that the blue 7 symbol "blue 7" can be aligned with the left middle right reels 20a to 20c has disappeared in this game (not performed in an operation mode that can be displayed). If the first stop operation fails, the privilege granting means 82 determines not to grant the privilege. Further, the staging control means 100 hides (deletes) the symbol navigation display "blue 7 symbol" and hides "1" in the batting order navigation display "3.2" triggered by the first stop operation.・ "Erase" is displayed.

FIG. 36B is one of the displays when the first stop operation is performed in the blue 7 aiming game. This is a display when the stop button 26c is not pressed (first stop operation) according to the batting order navigation in the state shown in FIG. 35 (a). This is called the failure of the first stop operation. This "failure in the first stop operation" does not follow the batting order navigation (the first stop operation is not performed in an operation mode capable of displaying the blue 7 symbol "blue 7" at a predetermined position), and this game It means that the possibility that the blue 7 symbol "blue 7" can be aligned with the reels 20a to 20c on the left, middle, and right has disappeared. If the first stop operation fails, the privilege granting means 82 determines not to grant the privilege. Further, the staging control means 100 hides the symbol navigation display "blue 7 symbol" and does not hide the batting order navigation display "3.2.1" (while it is displayed), triggered by the first stop operation. ).

FIG. 36 (c) is one of the displays when the second stop operation is performed in the blue 7 aiming game. In the state shown in FIG. 35 (b), the batting order navigation is followed, but the stop button is displayed at the timing when the blue 7 symbol "blue 7" on the reel 20b stops in a straight line with the blue 7 symbol "blue 7" on the reel 20c and is not displayed. This is a display when 26b is pressed (second stop operation). This is called a failure in the second stop operation. This "failure in the second stop operation" means that the two blue 7 symbols "blue 7" do not stop in a straight line (the second stop operation causes the blue 7 symbol "blue 7" to be displayed at a predetermined position. This means that the possibility of aligning the blue 7 symbol "blue 7" with the reels 20a to 20c on the left, middle, and right has disappeared in this game (not performed in a possible operation mode). If the second stop operation fails, the privilege granting means 82 determines not to grant the privilege. Further, the staging control means 100 hides the symbol navigation display "blue 7 symbol" and further hides the "2" in the batting order navigation display "3 / erase / erase" triggered by the second stop operation. Is displayed. It should be noted that this display is also displayed when the stop button 26b is pressed according to the batting order navigation from the state shown in FIG. 36 (a).

FIG. 36 (d) is one of the displays when the second stop operation is performed in the blue 7 aiming game. This is a display when the stop button 26b is not pressed (second stop operation) according to the batting order navigation in the state shown in FIG. 35 (b). This is called a failure in the second stop operation. This "failure in the second stop operation" does not follow the batting order navigation (the second stop operation is not performed in an operation mode capable of displaying the blue 7 symbol "blue 7" at a predetermined position), and this game It means that the possibility that the blue 7 symbol "blue 7" can be aligned with the reels 20a to 20c on the left, middle, and right has disappeared. If the second stop operation fails, the privilege granting means 82 determines not to grant the privilege. Further, the effect control means 100 hides the symbol navigation display "blue 7 symbol" and keeps displaying the batting order navigation display "3.2 / erase" in the wake of the second stop operation. It should be noted that this display is also displayed when the stop button 26b is not pressed according to the batting order navigation from the state shown in FIG. 36 (a).

FIG. 36 (e) is one of the displays when the third stop operation is performed. In the state shown in FIG. 35 (c), the stop button 26a was pressed (third stop operation) according to the batting order navigation, but the blue 7 symbol "blue 7" on the reel 20a was replaced by the blue 7 symbol "blue 7" on the reel 20b and the reel 20c. This is a display when the stop button 26a is pressed (third stop operation) at a timing when it is stopped so as to line up with "blue 7" and is not displayed. This is called a failure in the third stop operation. This "third stop operation failure" means that the three blue 7 symbols "blue 7" do not stop in a straight line (the third stop operation causes the blue 7 symbol "blue 7" to be displayed at a predetermined position. This means that the possibility of aligning the blue 7 symbol "blue 7" with the reels 20a to 20c on the left, middle, and right has disappeared in this game (not performed in a possible operation mode). If the third stop operation fails, the privilege granting means 82 determines not to grant the privilege. Further, the effect control means 100 hides the symbol navigation display "blue 7 symbol" and hides the batting order navigation display "3 / erase / erase" triggered by the third stop operation. It should be noted that this display is also displayed when the stop button 26a is pressed according to the batting order navigation from the state shown in FIG. 36 (c).

When a stop operation is performed in a game (blue 7 aiming game) in which the symbol navigation display "blue 7 symbol" (predetermined display corresponding to a predetermined symbol) is displayed, the symbol (blue 7 symbol) aimed by the stop operation is performed. When all of "blue 7") (predetermined symbol) is displayed at a predetermined position, the symbol navigation display "blue 7 symbol" is hidden. That is, the stop operation in the game in which the predetermined display is displayed is an operation mode in which the predetermined symbol can be displayed at the predetermined position, and all of the predetermined symbols are predetermined by the stop operation. When it is displayed at the position, the predetermined display is hidden with the stop operation as a trigger. In other words, if the first stop operation is successful, the second stop operation is successful, and the third stop operation is successful, it is decided to grant the privilege, and the third stop operation or the third release operation is used as an opportunity. The symbol navigation display "Blue 7 symbol" is hidden. In other words, in the game (blue 7 aiming game) in which the symbol navigation display "blue 7 symbol", which is a predetermined display, is displayed, the stop button is stopped according to the batting order navigation display and the symbol navigation display, and the stop operation is performed. When the privilege granting means 82 determines to grant the privilege based on the above, the staging control means 100 hides the symbol navigation display "blue 7 symbol" triggered by the stop operation. Here, as described above, the stop operation of the stop button performed according to the batting order navigation display and the symbol navigation display is referred to as an operation mode capable of displaying the target symbol at a predetermined position. That is, the operation mode of displaying the target symbol at a predetermined position means operating the stop button according to the batting order navigation and operating the stop button according to the batting order navigation.

In addition, when a stop operation is performed in a game (blue 7 aiming game) in which the symbol navigation display "blue 7 symbol" (predetermined display corresponding to a predetermined symbol) is displayed, the stop operation is the target symbol (blue 7 aiming game). If the blue 7 symbol "blue 7") (predetermined symbol) is not displayed in a predetermined position, the symbol navigation display "blue 7 symbol" will be hidden when the stop operation is performed. Become. In other words, if any of the first stop operation, the second stop operation, or the third stop operation fails, it is decided not to give the privilege due to the failed stop operation, and the symbol navigation display "blue 7 symbol" is displayed. It will be hidden. In other words, in a game (blue 7 aiming game) in which the symbol navigation display "blue 7 symbol", which is a predetermined display, is displayed, the batting order navigation display is not followed, or the symbol navigation display is not followed, and the stop button is stopped. When the operation is performed and the stop operation determines that the privilege granting means 82 does not grant the privilege, the staging control means 100 hides the symbol navigation display "blue 7 symbol" triggered by the stop operation. That is, when it is determined that the blue 7 symbols "blue 7" are not displayed in a straight line when the left middle right reels 20a to 20c are stopped, the symbol navigation display "blue 7 symbol" is hidden.

Here, in the case where the first stop operation or the second stop operation fails, if the symbol navigation display "blue 7 symbol" remains displayed until the third stop operation (third release operation) is performed. There is a risk that the player may have the expectation that he may be able to obtain the perks (something that is pleasing to the player may happen). In other words, there is a risk that the highlighting will make the player expect the player to acquire the privilege. Therefore, the player may misunderstand the result of the game.

In the present embodiment, when the first stop operation or the second stop operation fails, that is, when the privilege granting means 82 decides not to grant the privilege by the stop operation, the stop operation is used as an opportunity for the symbol. The navigation display "Blue 7 design" is hidden. Therefore, the player can grasp the decision that the privilege cannot be obtained at the stage when the stop operation of the stop button fails (that is, without waiting for the third stop operation to be completed), and the player can understand the decision. Not highlighted. This can prevent the player from misidentifying the result of the game. If the stop operation fails without following the batting order navigation, the batting order navigation display is not hidden but remains displayed, triggered by the stop operation. Therefore, the player and the like are surely notified that the stop buttons 26a to 26c are not pressed according to the batting order navigation. This makes it possible to suppress the occurrence of misidentification in the game.

Further, when the stop operation of the stop button fails, as shown in FIG. 36, the staging control means 100 may display a display other than the batting order navigation display in a darkened state. In other words, the display other than the batting order navigation display may be displayed with a lower brightness than when the stop operation of the stop button is successful. Including the batting order navigation display, the display may have a lower brightness than when the stop operation of the stop button is successful. By doing so, the player can more clearly recognize the decision that a pleasing event will not occur (the privilege cannot be obtained).

(Red 7 aiming production)
The privilege granting means 82 performs a privilege granting lottery at a predetermined opportunity during the advantageous section. One of the benefits given by this privilege grant lottery is the red 7 aiming game. This red 7 aiming game is a game in which the player can stop the rotating reel (press the stop button) aiming at displaying the red 7 symbol "red 7". In the red 7 aiming game, when the stop button is pressed aiming at displaying the red 7 symbol "red 7" (the stop button is pressed at the timing when the red 7 symbol "red 7" can be displayed. Case), the reel stops and the red 7 symbol "red 7" is displayed. However, even when the stop button is pressed with the aim of displaying the red 7 symbol "red 7", there are cases where the red 7 symbol "red 7" is not displayed (so-called ghost).
The privilege granting means 82 performs a red 7 aiming game granting lottery as a privilege granting lottery when the effecting state is the chance producing state or the AT producing state during the advantageous section. When the privilege granting means 82 decides to grant the red 7 aiming game by performing the red 7 aiming game granting lottery, in the red 7 aiming game, the staging control means 100 is the symbol navigation display (red 7) which is one of the notification information. Aiming effect) is executed by the display device 13. This red 7 aiming effect is an effect of notifying the target symbol (that is, the red 7 symbol "red 7") in the red 7 aiming game (the effect of notifying the red 7 symbol "red 7"). The staging control means 100 causes the display device 13 to display a predetermined display capable of recognizing the target symbol (red 7 symbol “red 7”).

A case where the red 7 aiming effect is executed will be described with reference to FIGS. 37 and 38. Note that FIGS. 37 and 38 show a case where the red 7 aiming effect is executed together with the batting order navigation effect. That is, the staging control means 100 has a batting order navigation display as well as a symbol navigation display "upper row: cherry symbol" CH ", middle row: red 7 symbol" red 7 ", lower row: cherry symbol" CH "" (hereinafter, symbol navigation display "Che. Notated as "Red 7 / Choi") is displayed. The notation "Che / Red 7 / Cho" in the symbol navigation display is, in order from the top on the display device 13, an image corresponding to the cherry symbol "CH", an image corresponding to the red 7 symbol "Red 7", and a cherry symbol "Cherry symbol". Indicates that the image corresponding to "CH" is displayed.

The privilege granting means 82 may determine whether or not to grant the privilege at the time when the red 7 aiming game is started. In this example, a case where the privilege granting means 82 decides to grant the privilege at the start of the red 7 aiming game will be described. The privilege of this example is the decision to shift to the special production state.

FIG. 37A shows a display when the start lever 24 is operated in the red 7 aiming game. The staging control means 100 displays the batting order navigation display “2 ・ 1 ・ 3” and the symbol navigation display “Che ・ Red 7 ・ Che”. Further, the staging control means 100 displays a character image on a lower layer.

FIG. 37B is one of the displays when the first stop operation is performed in the red 7 aiming game. In the state shown in FIG. 37 (a), when the stop button 26b is pressed (first stop operation) according to the batting order navigation and at the timing when the red 7 symbol "red 7" of the reel 20b is stopped and displayed in the middle stage. It is a display of. This is called the success of the first stop operation. "Successful first stop operation" means that the red 7 symbol "red 7" is stopped in the middle of the reel 20b (red 7 symbol "red 7" is displayed at a predetermined position), and the reels 20a on the left, middle, and right are displayed. It means that there is still a possibility that the red 7 symbol "red 7" can be aligned at 20c. In addition, although the target symbol was explained as the red 7 symbol "Red 7", when the symbol navigation display "Che / Red 7 / Che" is displayed, the upper and lower cherry symbols "CH" are also targeted. Become. Therefore, the success of the first stop operation in this case means that the cherry symbol "CH" stops at the upper stage of the reel 20b, the red 7 symbol "red 7" stops at the middle stage of the reel 20b, and the red 7 symbol "red 7" stops at the lower stage of the reel 20b. It means that the 7 symbol "Red 7" is stopped (that is, the target symbol is displayed in a predetermined position), and there is still a possibility that the red 7 symbol "Red 7" can be aligned on the left middle right reels 20a to 20c. do.
The staging control means 100 hides the symbol navigation display "Che / Red 7 / Che" and displays the batting order navigation display "2 / Erase / 3" with "1" hidden, triggered by the first stop operation. Then, the message display ("Try to align!") Is displayed. This message display is a display instructing that the red 7 symbol "red 7" is aligned, and corresponds to displaying an image of the symbol navigation display corresponding to the red 7 symbol "red 7". That is, it is a predetermined display capable of recognizing the target symbol (red 7 symbol "red 7"). In this example, since the privilege granting means 82 determines the granting of the privilege (transition to the special effect state) at the start of the red 7 aiming game, the effect control means 100 triggers the first stop operation. Switch the display of the background (that is, display another character image). In this example, the staging control means 100 displays an image (an image in which the character is in a guts pose) suggesting the granting of the privilege, triggered by the first stop operation.

FIG. 37 (c) is one of the displays when the second stop operation is performed in the red 7 aiming game. In the state shown in FIG. 37 (b), according to the batting order navigation, the red 7 symbol "red 7" on the reel 20a stops in a straight line with the red 7 symbol "red 7" on the reel 20b and stops at the timing displayed. This is a display when the button 26a is pressed (second stop operation). This is called the success of the second stop operation. "Successful second stop operation" means that the two red 7 symbols "red 7" stop in a straight line (red 7 symbol "red 7" is displayed at a predetermined position), and the reels 20a on the left, middle, and right are displayed. It means that there is still a possibility that the red 7 symbol "red 7" can be aligned at 20c. The staging control means 100 further displays the batting order navigation display "erase / erase / 3" with "2" hidden, and displays a message (that is, the target symbol "red 7 symbol"), triggered by the second stop operation. The predetermined display that can be recognized) remains displayed.

FIG. 37 (d) is one of the displays when the third stop operation is performed in the red 7 aiming game. In the state shown in FIG. 37 (c), according to the batting order navigation, the red 7 symbol "Red 7" on the reel 20c is stopped so as to be aligned with the red 7 symbol "Red 7" on the reels 20a and 20b. This is a display when the stop button 26c is pressed (third stop operation) at the displayed timing. This is called the success of the third stop operation. "Successful third stop operation" means that the three red 7 symbols "red 7" are stopped so as to line up in a straight line (all of the red 7 symbols "red 7" are displayed in predetermined positions) and aligned. It means that. The staging control means 100 hides the batting order navigation display "erasing / erasing / 3" and keeps displaying the message display, triggered by the third stop operation.

FIG. 37 (e) is one of the displays after the third release operation in the red 7 aiming game. The effect control means 100 hides the message display and displays an image (“BONUS” image) for notifying the determination (confirmation) of the granting of the privilege (acquisition of the privilege) triggered by the third release operation. In this example, the transition to the special effect state is notified. The effect control means 100 may hide the message display triggered by the third stop operation.

FIG. 38 (a) is one of the displays when the first stop operation is performed in the red 7 aiming game. In the state shown in FIG. 37 (a), the batting order navigation is followed, but the stop button 26b is pressed (first stop operation) at the timing when the red 7 symbol "red 7" of the reel 20b is stopped in the middle stage and is not displayed. It is a display of. This is called the failure of the first stop operation. "Failed in the first stop operation" means that the red 7 symbol "red 7" does not stop in the middle of the reel 20b (the first stop operation can display the red 7 symbol "red 7" in a predetermined position. This means that the possibility of aligning the red 7 symbol "Red 7" with the reels 20a to 20c on the left, middle, and right has disappeared in this game. The staging control means 100 hides the symbol navigation display "Che / Red 7 / Che" and displays the batting order navigation display "2 / Erase / 3" with "1" hidden, triggered by the first stop operation. do. Further, since the effect control means 100 determines that the privilege granting means 82 grants the privilege at the start of the red 7 aiming game, the background display is switched with the first stop operation as an opportunity (FIG. 37). (B) to the same as the background shown in FIG. 37 (d)), an image suggesting the granting of benefits is displayed. However, the effect control means 100 does not display the message display.

FIG. 38 (b) is one of the displays when the second stop operation is performed in the red 7 aiming game. In the state shown in FIG. 37 (b), the batting order navigation is followed, but the red 7 symbol "red 7" on the reel 20a stops in a straight line with the red 7 symbol "red 7" on the reel 20b and stops at the timing when it is not displayed. This is a display when the button 26a is pressed (second stop operation). This is called a failure in the second stop operation. "Failed in the second stop operation" means that the two red 7 symbols "red 7" do not stop in a straight line (the second stop operation can display the red 7 symbol "red 7" in a predetermined position. This means that the possibility of aligning the red 7 symbol "Red 7" with the reels 20a to 20c on the left, middle, and right has disappeared in this game. The effect control means 100 further displays the batting order navigation display "turn off / turn off / 3" with "2" hidden, and hides the message display, triggered by the second stop operation. It should be noted that this display is also displayed when the stop button 26a is pressed according to the batting order navigation from the state shown in FIG. 38 (a).

FIG. 38 (c) is one of the displays when the second stop operation is performed in the red 7 aiming game. This is a display when the stop button 26a is not pressed according to the batting order navigation in the state shown in FIG. 37 (b). This is called a failure in the second stop operation. "Failed in the second stop operation" does not follow the batting order navigation (the second stop operation is not performed in an operation mode capable of displaying the red 7 symbol "red 7" at a predetermined position), and in this game. , It means that the possibility that the red 7 symbol "red 7" can be aligned with the reels 20a to 20c on the left, middle and right has disappeared. The effect control means 100 keeps displaying the batting order navigation display "2, turn off, 3" and hides the message display, triggered by the second stop operation. From the state shown in FIG. 38 (a), this display is also displayed when the stop button 26a is not pressed according to the batting order navigation.

FIG. 38 (d) is one of the displays when the third stop operation is performed in the red 7 aiming game. From the state shown in FIG. 37 (c), the stop button 26c was pressed according to the batting order navigation, but the red 7 symbol "red 7" on the reel 20c was aligned with the red 7 symbol "red 7" on the reels 20a and 20b. This is a display when the stop button 26c is pressed (third stop operation) at a timing when the stop button 26c is stopped and not displayed. This is called a failure in the third stop operation. "Failed in the third stop operation" means that the three red 7 symbols "red 7" do not stop in a straight line (the third stop operation can display the red 7 symbol "red 7" in a predetermined position. This means that the possibility of aligning the red 7 symbol "Red 7" with the reels 20a to 20c on the left, middle, and right has disappeared in this game. The effect control means 100 hides the batting order navigation display "turn off / erase / 3" and hides the message display, triggered by the third stop operation. It should be noted that this display is also displayed when the stop button 26c is pressed according to the batting order navigation from the state shown in FIG. 38 (b).

FIG. 38 (f) is one of the displays when the first stop operation is performed in the red 7 aiming game. In the state shown in FIG. 37 (a), the display when the stop button 26b is not stopped according to the batting order navigation (first stop operation) is shown. The staging control means 100 hides the symbol navigation display "Che, Red 7, Choi" triggered by the first stop operation. However, since the privilege granting means 82 has determined to grant the privilege at the start of the red 7 aiming game, the staging control means 100 switches the display of the background (FIGS. 37 (b) to 37 (d)). (Similar to the background shown in), and an image suggesting the granting of benefits is displayed. The staging control means 100 keeps displaying the batting order navigation display "2, 1, 3".

When a stop operation is performed in a game (red 7 aiming game) in which the symbol navigation display (including the message display "Try to align!") (Predetermined display corresponding to the predetermined symbol) is displayed, the stop operation is performed. When all of the target symbols (red 7 symbol "red 7") (predetermined symbols) are displayed at predetermined positions by the operation, the symbol navigation display is hidden. That is, the stop operation in the game in which the predetermined display is displayed is an operation mode in which the predetermined symbol can be displayed at the predetermined position, and all of the predetermined symbols are predetermined by the stop operation. When it is displayed at the position, the predetermined display is hidden with the stop operation as a trigger. In other words, the first stop operation to the third stop operation are performed according to the batting order navigation display and the symbol navigation display, the reels 20a to 20c on the left, middle and right are stopped, and the red 7 symbols "red 7" are displayed side by side in a straight line. Then, the effect control means 100 hides the message display triggered by the third stop operation or the third release operation.

In addition, when a stop operation is performed in a game (red 7 aiming game) in which the symbol navigation display (predetermined display corresponding to a predetermined symbol) is displayed, the stop operation is the target symbol (red 7 symbol "". If the red 7 ”) (predetermined symbol) is not performed in an operation mode capable of displaying it at a predetermined position, the symbol navigation display will be hidden triggered by the stop operation. Specifically, in a game (red 7 aiming game) in which the symbol navigation display "Che / Red 7 / Che", which is a predetermined display, is displayed, the batting order navigation display is not followed, or the symbol navigation display is not followed. When the first stop operation is performed, the staging control means 100 hides the symbol navigation display "Che / Red 7 / Che" and displays a message ("Try to align!"). Is not displayed. Further, when the second stop operation is performed without following the batting order navigation display or the symbol navigation display, the effect control means 100 hides the message display triggered by the second stop operation. Further, when the third stop operation is performed without following the batting order navigation display or the symbol navigation display, the staging control means 100 hides the message display triggered by the third stop operation. When it is confirmed that the red 7 symbols "Red 7" are not displayed side by side in a straight line when the reels 20a to 20c on the left, middle and right are stopped, the predetermined display (symbol navigation display "Che Red 7 ..." It can be said that "Che" or the message display ("Try to align!") Is hidden.

Therefore, if the first stop operation fails, the symbol navigation display is hidden with the stop operation as a trigger. If the second stop operation fails, the message display is hidden as a result of the stop operation. Further, when the third stop operation fails, the message display is hidden triggered by the stop operation. That is, when the stop operation of the stop button fails (that is, without waiting for the third stop operation to be completed), the symbol navigation display or the message display is hidden. Therefore, it will not be highlighted to the player. This makes it possible to prevent the player from misidentifying the game result. In this example, since the privilege granting means 82 determines to grant the privilege at the start of the red 7 aiming game, the player can acquire the privilege even if the stop operation fails. In this way, it is a happy result (a happy betrayal) for the player to be able to obtain the privilege even if the stop operation fails and the symbol navigation display or the message display is hidden.

Note that FIG. 38 (e) is one of the displays when the first stop operation is performed in the red 7 aiming game. In the state shown in FIG. 37 (a), the display when the stop button 26b is not stopped according to the batting order navigation (first stop operation) is shown. In this example, it is assumed that the privilege granting means 82 has determined not to grant the privilege at the start of the red 7 aiming game. The staging control means 100 hides the symbol navigation display "Che, Red 7, Choi" triggered by the first stop operation. Further, the staging control means 100 does not switch the display of the background (the display remains the same as the background shown in FIG. 37 (a)). Further, the staging control means 100 is a display in which a display other than the batting order navigation display is dimmed. The staging control means 100 keeps displaying the batting order navigation display "2, 1, 3". In any of the first stop operation to the third stop operation, when it is confirmed that the privilege will not be granted when the stop operation of the stop button fails (when the grant of the privilege is not confirmed), The effect control means 100 hides the symbol navigation display (message display), and displays the batting order navigation in an manner according to the success or failure of the batting order navigation.

Further, in this example, it is assumed that the privilege is given at the start of the red 7 aiming game, but when the first stop operation to the third stop operation are performed according to the batting order navigation display and the symbol navigation display. When it is decided to give a privilege to the player and the stop operation (either the first stop operation to the third stop operation) is performed without following the batting order navigation display or the symbol navigation display, the stop operation is used as an opportunity. It may be decided not to grant the privilege.

(Another example of red 7 aiming production)
The privilege granting means 82 performs a red 7 aiming game granting lottery as a privilege granting lottery when the effecting state is the chance producing state during the advantageous section. When the privilege granting means 82 decides to grant the red 7 aiming game by performing the red 7 aiming game granting lottery, in the red 7 aiming game, the effect control means 100 uses the red 7 aiming effect described below with reference to FIG. 39. Is executed by the display device 13. In the red 7 aiming game of this example, when the stop button is pressed according to the symbol navigation display, the privilege granting means 82 determines to grant a small privilege or a large privilege. Further, the privilege granting means 82 determines that the small privilege is granted when the number of grants of the small privilege in the same chance production state is less than the threshold value (for example, 3 times), and the number of grants of the small privilege reaches the threshold value. If so, it will be decided to give a big privilege. In this example, the small privilege is the continuation of the chance production state, and the large privilege is the transition from the chance production state to the AT production state.

FIG. 39A shows a display when the start lever 24 is operated in the red 7 aiming game. In this red 7 aiming game, the batting order navigation effect is not executed. The staging control means 100 is a symbol navigation display "upper row: red 7 symbol" red 7 ", middle row: replay symbol" RP ", lower row: BAR symbol" BAR "" (hereinafter, symbol navigation display "red 7 re-ba"). (Notation) (predetermined display corresponding to a predetermined symbol) is displayed at a position corresponding to the stop button 26a (left side of the display surface in the display device 13). This display aims to stop the red 7 symbol "Red 7" on the upper row of the reel 20a, stop the replay symbol "RP" on the middle row of the reel 20a, and stop the BAR symbol "BAR" on the lower row of the reel 20a. It is a display instructing that the stop button 26a is pressed first. Further, the staging control means 100 displays a message display (“Aim!”).

FIG. 39B is one of the displays when the first stop operation is performed in the red 7 aiming game. It is assumed that no small privilege has been given at the start of this Red 7 aiming game. In FIG. 39 (b), in the state shown in FIG. 39 (a), the stop button 26a is first stopped (first stop operation), and the target symbol of the reel 20a is stopped and displayed at the timing of the stop operation. It is a display when it is done. By this first stop operation, all of the target symbols (upper row: red 7 symbol "red 7", middle row: replay symbol "RP", lower row: BAR symbol "BAR") (predetermined symbol) are displayed at predetermined positions. Then, the privilege granting means 82 decides to grant a small privilege. In addition, the staging control means 100 hides the symbol navigation display "Red 7 Reba" and the message display ("Aim!") Triggered by the first stop operation, suggesting the granting of a small privilege. Display the image to be displayed (switch the display of the background). That is, the stop operation in the game in which the predetermined display is displayed is an operation mode in which the predetermined symbol can be displayed at the predetermined position, and all of the predetermined symbols are predetermined by the stop operation. When it is displayed at the position, the predetermined display is hidden with the stop operation (first stop operation) as a trigger.
When the number of times the small privilege is granted in this chance effect state reaches the threshold value, the privilege granting means 82 determines the grant of the large privilege, and the effect control means 100 uses the first stop operation as an opportunity to serve as a symbol. An image (for example, "" shown in FIG. 35 (e)) that hides the navigation display "Red 7 Reba" and the message display ("Aim!") And notifies the decision (confirmation) of granting the big privilege. CHANGE "image) is displayed.

FIG. 39 (c) is one of the displays when the first stop operation is performed in the red 7 aiming game. In the state shown in FIG. 39 (a), the stop button 26a was first stopped (first stop operation), but the target symbol (predetermined symbol) of the reel 20a was stopped and stopped at a timing when it was not displayed. It is a display of the case. Further, this display is also displayed when the stop button 26b is operated for the first time or when the stop button 26c is operated for the first time. That is, the operation mode in which the first stop operation can display the target symbol (upper row: red 7 symbol "red 7", middle row: replay symbol "RP", lower row: BAR symbol "BAR") at a predetermined position. If this is not done, the privilege granting means 82 determines not to grant the small privilege. In addition, the staging control means 100 hides the symbol navigation display "Red 7 Reba" and the message display ("Aim!") And does not give a small privilege, triggered by the first stop operation. Display an image that suggests.

In this way, when the first stop operation fails, the symbol navigation display and the message display are hidden, triggered by the first stop operation. Therefore, since the player can grasp that the privilege cannot be obtained at the stage when the stop operation of the stop button fails, it is not highlighted to the player. This makes it possible to prevent the player from misidentifying the game result.

The symbol navigation effect (aiming effect) shown in this embodiment is the winning area "normal replay", the winning area "replay 1" to "replay 4", the winning area "weak cherry 1", and "weak" shown in FIG. It may be executed when you win any of the winning areas of "Cherry 2". In addition, the aiming effect may be one that can be executed when the winning area of the small winning combination is won.

(Fifth Embodiment)
Next, a fifth embodiment of the present invention will be described. Since the gaming machine of the present embodiment basically has the same configuration as the gaming machine of the third embodiment, the same configuration as the gaming machine of the third embodiment will be described. Is omitted or simplified. Further, the configuration according to the present embodiment can be combined with the configuration according to the configuration other than the third embodiment.

The reel control means 43 starts the rotation drive of the reels 20a to 20c by the stepping motor based on the start signal from the start switch operated by the player by the game start operation to the start lever SL, and starts the rotation drive of the reels 20a to 20c at a predetermined speed (about 80 rpm: Control is performed to enable the stop operation by pressing the stop buttons 26a to 26c (stop operation means) corresponding to the reels that are constantly rotating at a rotation speed of about 80 rotations per minute), and the stepping motor is used. Control is performed to stop the rotation-driven reels 20a to 20c in a manner corresponding to the setting state of the winning flag (result of the internal lottery).

The reel control means 43 is based on the reel stop signal from the stop switch when the stop switch is activated by the player pressing the stop buttons 26a to 26c in a state where the stop operation for the stop buttons 26a to 26c is enabled. Then, by stopping the supply of the drive pulse (motor drive signal) to the stepping motor, control (stop control) for stopping the reels 20a to 20c is performed.

The reel control means 43 determines the stop position of the reel corresponding to the pressed button among the reels 20a to 20c each time each button of the stop buttons 26a to 26c is pressed, and the reel at the determined stop position. Is controlled to stop. In the gaming machine of the present embodiment, pressing the stop button 26a corresponds to an operation for stopping the reel 20a (stop operation), and pressing the stop button 26b corresponds to an operation for stopping the reel 20b (a stop operation). Corresponding to the stop operation), pressing the stop button 26c corresponds to the operation (stop operation) for stopping the reel 20c. When the pressing order (operation order) of the stop buttons 26a to 26c changes, the stop order of the reels 20a to 20c changes.

In the gaming machine of the present embodiment, in principle, for the reels 20a to 20c, the rotating reel corresponding to the pressed stop button is stopped within 190 ms from the time when the stop buttons 26a to 26c are pressed. It has become like. When the rotating reel is stopped within 190 ms from the time when the stop button is pressed, the number of frames required from the time when the stop button is pressed until the reel is stopped is 0 at the stop position of each rotating reel. It is determined in the range of 4 frames (predetermined pull-in range). Then, in the reel control means 43, on the outer peripheral surface of the rotating reel corresponding to the stop button on which the pressing operation is performed among the stop buttons 26a to 26c, the symbol corresponding to the winning combination in the internal lottery is the stop button. The winning flag is set to the winning state when the position is within the range of 0 to 4 frames (when stopped within 190 ms) with respect to the display position on the effective line when the pressing operation for is performed. Control is performed to stop the rotating reel corresponding to the stop button on which the pressing operation is performed so that the symbol corresponding to the winning combination is displayed at the display position on the effective line.

In the present embodiment, a plurality of types of symbols are arranged on the outer peripheral surfaces of the reels 20a to 20c (see FIG. 30), and when the symbols existing within 4 frames from the pressing detection position are drawn onto the effective line, Symbols arranged at intervals of 4 frames or less on the outer peripheral surface of each reel can be displayed at an arbitrary display position regardless of the pressing detection position.

The reel control means 43 is rotating with reference to a process of obtaining a stop position of the rotating reel by logic calculation (logic calculation process) and a stop control table stored in the stop control table storage means of the storage means 60. The process of determining the stop position of the reel (table reference process) is performed.

In the logic calculation process, it is within the range of 0 to 4 frames from the press detection position, which is the position of the reel at the time when the stop switch is operated (when the press of the stop button is detected) according to the priority data determined for each combination. Priority is obtained for the candidate stop positions for the existing 5 frames. Then, among the priorities of the candidates for each stop position, the candidate for the stop position having the highest priority is determined as the actual stop position. However, in the logic calculation process, the same priority may be obtained for multiple stop position candidates depending on the result of the internal lottery, the press detection position, etc., and the highest priority stop position candidate is multiple. If this happens, the actual stop position is determined by the table reference process described later.

In the gaming machine of the present embodiment, the priority is set in the order of "replay> small winning combination> bonus", and in the logic calculation processing, when the winning flags for two or more types of winning combination are set to the internal winning state. According to the priority associated with each winning combination, the candidate for the stop position including the symbol constituting the winning form of the winning combination with high priority is the stop position including the symbol constituting the winning form of the winning combination with low priority. Ask for priority so that it has a higher priority than the candidate.

In the gaming machine of the present embodiment, the priority of the stop position candidates when a plurality of types of small wins are won in the internal lottery is set according to the number of symbol combinations that can be displayed on the valid line. There are cases where the priority is calculated according to the number of medals paid out based on the predetermined dividend for the small winning combination, and the stop position is determined according to the number of symbol combinations that can be displayed on the valid line. When finding the priority for candidates, the priority for each stop position candidate is found so that the higher the number of stop positions that indicate the winning form that can be displayed on the valid line, the higher the priority. , When the priority of the stop position candidate is calculated according to the number of medals paid out, the number of medals paid out based on the payout of the small winning combination corresponding to the symbol displayed at the display position on the valid line increases. The priority of each stop position candidate is obtained so that the stop position (the stop position where a small winning combination with a large dividend can be won) has a higher priority. However, when the priority of the candidate for the stop position is calculated according to the number of medals paid out, if the small wins with the same payout are won in duplicate, the stop position where each small win can be won. The priorities of the candidates are treated as the same.

Further, in the logic calculation process, so-called pull-in process and kick-off process are performed as processes for obtaining candidates for reel stop positions. The pull-in process is a process of finding a candidate for the stop position of the reel so that the winning combination set in the winning state can be won as much as possible. On the other hand, the kicking process is a process of obtaining a candidate for a stop position of the reel so that a winning combination whose winning flag is set to the non-winning state cannot be won. In this way, the reel control means 43 makes it possible to stop the symbol of the winning combination in which the winning flag is set in the winning state in the form of winning, while the symbol of the winning combination in which the lottery flag is set in the non-winning state is in the form of winning. Logic calculation processing is performed to obtain a candidate for a reel stop position so as not to stop.

The gaming machine of the present embodiment includes a reel index including a photosensor, and the reel control means 43 uses a reference position signal of the reel as a reference position signal detected by the reel index for each rotation of the reel. By obtaining the rotation angle (the number of rotation steps of the rotation axis of the stepping motor) from (the frame detected by the reel index), the current rotation state of the reel can be monitored. That is, the reel control means 43 can obtain the position of the reel when the stop switch is operated by obtaining the rotation angle of the reel from the reference position.

In the table reference processing, when a plurality of candidates for the stop position having the highest priority are obtained as a result of performing the logic calculation process, the stop control table storage area of the storage means 60 determines which position is to be the stop position. Determined by referring to the stop control table stored in.

In the stop control table, the correspondence between the push detection position, which is the position of the reel at the time when the stop switch is activated (when the stop button is detected), and the stop position is set according to the setting state of the winning flag. ing. In the stop control table, the correspondence between the press detection position and the number of slip frames indicating the amount of rotation from the press detection position to the stop position may be set according to the setting state of the winning flag.

The reel control means 43 rotates the reels 20a to 20c for each game, and controls the rotating reels 20a to 20c to be stopped in a predetermined stop mode according to the result of the internal lottery, triggered by the stop operation. .. The stop mode refers to a state in which the symbols are arranged on the stopped reels 20a to 20c displayed (appearing) through the display window 16 (see FIG. 22), for example, the upper, middle, and lower stages of the reels 20a to 20c. When the watermelon symbol "WM" is stopped in any of the above and the watermelon symbols "WM" are displayed in a straight line, it is said to be a stop mode of watermelon alignment.

In the gaming machine of this embodiment, the winning area "normal replay", the winning area "replay 1" to "replay 4", the winning area "weak cherry 1", or the winning area "weak cherry 2" is won. In this case, the reel control means 43 stops the rotation of the reels 20a to 20c so that the replay wins in the stop mode shown in FIG. 40. In the present embodiment, different stop modes appear according to the operation order (batting order) of the stop buttons 26a to 26c. Hereinafter, each winning area will be described.

(Normal replay)
When the stop button 26a is first pressed in the batting order 1 and 2, the reels 20a to 20c are stopped, and the replay-aligned stop mode appears. The mode of stopping the replay alignment means that the replay symbol "RP" is stopped on the reels 20a to 20c on the left, middle, and right, and the replay symbols "RP" are displayed in a straight line.
Further, when the batting order 3 and 4 in which the stop button 26b is pressed first and the batting order 5 and 6 in which the stop button 26c is pressed first are pressed, the reels 20a to 20c are stopped, and the blue 7 is stopped. Can appear. The stop mode of blue 7 alignment means that two of the three symbols lined up in a straight line are the blue 7 symbol "blue 7". FIG. 42B is an example of the blue 7 alignment fan, and the blue 7 symbol “blue 7” is displayed in the lower row of the left reel 20a and the middle row of the middle reel 20b in the diagonal line rising to the right.

(Replay 1)
When the stop button 26a is first pressed in the batting order 1 and 2, the reels 20a to 20c are stopped, and the replay-aligned stop mode appears.
Further, when the stop button 26b is first pressed in the batting order 3, the reels 20a to 20c are stopped, and a stop mode in which the red 7s are aligned can appear. The red 7-aligned stop mode is a state in which the red 7 symbol "Red 7" is stopped on the reels 20a to 20c on the left, middle, and right, and the red 7 symbols "Red 7" are displayed in a straight line. Say.
Further, when the stop button 26c is first pressed in the batting order 4, the reels 20a to 20c are stopped, and the stop mode of "red 7, red 7, BAR" can appear. The stop mode of "Red 7, Red 7, BAR" is that the red 7 symbol "Red 7" is displayed in a straight line on the left reel 20a and the middle reel 20b, and is displayed on the right reel 20c on the straight line. The BAR symbol "BAR" is displayed. FIG. 42 (a) is an example of the stop mode of “Red 7, Red 7, BAR”. In the diagonal line rising to the right, the red 7 symbol “Red 7” is placed in the lower row of the left reel 20a and the middle row of the middle reel 20b. Is displayed, and the BAR symbol "BAR" is displayed in the upper row of the right reel 20c.
Further, when the stop button 26c is first pressed in the batting order 5 or 6, the reels 20a to 20c are stopped, and a stop mode in which the blue 7 is aligned can appear.

(Replay 2)
When the stop button 26a is first pressed in the batting order 1 and 2, the reels 20a to 20c are stopped, and the replay-aligned stop mode appears.
Further, when the stop button 26b is first pressed in the batting order 3, the reels 20a to 20c are stopped, and the stop mode of "red 7, red 7, BAR" can appear.
Further, when the stop button 26b is first pressed in the batting order 4, the reels 20a to 20c are stopped, and a stop mode in which the red 7s are aligned can appear.
Further, when the stop button 26c is first pressed in the batting order 5 or 6, the reels 20a to 20c are stopped, and a stop mode in which the blue 7 is aligned can appear.

(Replay 3)
When the stop button 26a is first pressed in the batting order 1 and 2, the reels 20a to 20c are stopped, and the replay-aligned stop mode appears.
Further, when the stop button 26b is first pressed in the batting order 3 or 4, the reels 20a to 20c are stopped, and a stop mode in which the blue 7 is aligned can appear.
Further, when the stop button 26c is first pressed in the batting order 5, the reels 20a to 20c are stopped, and a stop mode in which the red 7s are aligned can appear.
Further, when the stop button 26c is first pressed in the batting order 6, the reels 20a to 20c are stopped, and the stop mode of "red 7, red 7, BAR" can appear.

(Replay 4)
When the stop button 26a is first pressed in the batting order 1 and 2, the reels 20a to 20c are stopped, and the replay-aligned stop mode appears.
Further, when the stop button 26b is first pressed in the batting order 3 or 4, the reels 20a to 20c are stopped, and a stop mode in which the blue 7 is aligned can appear.
Further, when the stop button 26c is first pressed in the batting order 5, the reels 20a to 20c are stopped, and the stop mode of "red 7, red 7, BAR" can appear.
Further, when the stop button 26c is first pressed in the batting order 6, the reels 20a to 20c are stopped, and a stop mode in which the red 7s are aligned can appear.

(Weak cherry 1)
When the stop button 26a is first pressed in the batting order 1 and 2, the reels 20a to 20c are stopped, and the stop mode of the weak cherry can appear. In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 44 (b), the weak cherry stop mode is displayed by stopping the cherry symbol “CH” in the lower stage of the left reel 20a and the middle stage of the middle reel 20b, and the right reel 20c. It means that the symbols other than the cherry symbol "CH" are stopped and displayed in the upper row. However, the stopping mode of the weak cherry is not limited to this, and can be set as appropriate. For example, the stop mode of the weak cherry is displayed by stopping and displaying the cherry symbol "CH" on the lower row of the left reel 20a, stopping and displaying one of the symbols on the middle reel 20b (ANY), and the middle row of the right reel 20c. The watermelon symbol "WM" may be stopped and displayed.
Further, when the stop button 26b is first pressed in the batting order 3 or 4, the reels 20a to 20c are stopped, and a stop mode in which the red 7s are aligned can appear.
Further, when the stop button 26c is first pressed in the batting order 5 or 6, the reels 20a to 20c are stopped, and the stop mode of "red 7, red 7, BAR" can appear.

(Weak cherry 2)
When the stop button 26a is first pressed in the batting order 1 and 2, the reels 20a to 20c are stopped, and the stop mode of the weak cherry can appear.
Further, when the stop button 26b is first pressed in the batting order 3 or 4, the reels 20a to 20c are stopped, and the stop mode of "red 7, red 7, BAR" can appear.
Further, when the stop button 26c is first pressed in the batting order 5 or 6, the reels 20a to 20c are stopped, and a stop mode in which the red 7s are aligned can appear.

If you win the winning area "Weak Cherry 1" or the winning area "Weak Cherry 2", the batting order can make the stop mode of the weak cherry appear (in the case of the winning area "Weak Cherry 1", the batting order 1 or the batting order 2). When the stop buttons 26a to 26c are operated with the aim of displaying the cherry symbol "CH" on a predetermined reel, the stop mode of the weak cherry is displayed. "Aiming" means performing a stop operation so that the targeted symbol stops at a predetermined position among the upper, middle, and lower stages. In other words, when the stop buttons 26a to 26c are operated in a batting order that can make the weak cherry stop mode appear and at a timing that can display the weak cherry symbol combination (second specific symbol combination), the reels. The control means 43 controls so that the stop mode of the weak cherry is displayed.

Next, the stopping mode of the batting order 3 to 6 shown in FIG. 40 will be described.
In the red 7-matched stop mode, the red 7 symbol "Red 7" is displayed in the batting order (in the case of the winning area "Replay 1", the batting order 3) in which the red 7-matched stop mode can appear. When the stop buttons 26a to 26c are operated aiming at, the red 7-aligned stop mode (see FIG. 41 (a)) is displayed. "Aiming" means performing a stop operation so that the targeted symbol stops at a predetermined position among the upper, middle, and lower stages. In other words, the stop buttons 26a to 26c are pressed in the batting order in which the red 7-matched stop mode can appear, and at the timing when the red 7-matched symbol combination (specific symbol combination) (first specific symbol combination) can be displayed. When operated, the reel control means 43 controls so that the stop mode in which the red 7 is aligned is displayed.

Here, the symbol symbol is displayed in a straight line in a state where a predetermined condition is satisfied, so that a transition to an advantageous state (directing state or a game state) and confirmation of privilege grant can be confirmed. It is a symbol to be notified (suggested). Further, the symbol symbols (red 7 symbol "red 7", blue 7 symbol "blue 7") are formed to have a larger width and the like than the other 7 symbols, and are easy for the player to aim at.

It should be noted that the stop button 26a aims to display the blue 7 symbol "blue 7", which is a symbol symbol, in the batting order (in the case of the winning area "replay 1", the batting order 3) in which the red 7-matched stop mode can appear. When ~ 26c is operated, a stop mode (see FIG. 41 (b)) in which the blue 7 symbols “blue 7” are aligned so as to be aligned is displayed.

In the stop mode of "Red 7, Red 7, BAR", the batting order in which the stop mode of "Red 7, Red 7, BAR" can appear (Batting order 4 in the case of the winning area "Replay 1") and with a symbol symbol When the stop buttons 26a to 26c are operated with the aim of displaying a certain red 7 symbol "red 7", the stop mode of "red 7, red 7, BAR" shown in FIG. 42 (a) is displayed. It has become. In other words, the batting order that can make the stop mode of "Red 7, Red 7, BAR" appear, and the symbol combination of "Red 7, Red 7, BAR" (specific symbol combination) (first specific symbol combination). When the stop buttons 26a to 26c are operated at the timing at which the display is possible, the reel control means 43 controls so that the stop mode of "red 7, red 7, BAR" is displayed.

In addition, the batting order in which the stop mode of "Red 7, Red 7, BAR" can appear (Batting order 4 in the case of the winning area "Replay 1") and the blue 7 symbol "Blue 7" is displayed. When the stop buttons 26a to 26c are operated aiming at, the blue 7 aligned fan stop mode (see FIG. 42 (b)) is displayed.

In the blue 7-matched stop mode, the batting order (either 5 or 6 in the winning area "Replay 1") that can cause the blue 7-matched stop mode to appear, and the blue 7 symbol is a symbol symbol. When the stop buttons 26a to 26c are operated with the aim of displaying "blue 7", the stop mode of the blue 7 alignment shown in FIG. 43 (a) is displayed. In other words, when the stop buttons 26a to 26c are operated in a batting order that can cause the blue 7-matched fanning stop mode to appear and at the timing when the 7-matched fanning symbol combination can be displayed, the reel control means 43 is blue. 7 Control so that the stop mode of the reeling is displayed.

It should be noted that the red 7 symbol "Red 7", which is a symbol symbol, should be displayed in the batting order (any of the batting orders 5 and 6 in the case of the winning area "Replay 1") in which the blue 7 uniform fanning stop mode can appear. When the stop buttons 26a to 26c are operated aiming at, the stop mode of the replay alignment shown in FIG. 43B is displayed.

In the above, the stop mode when the stop buttons 26a to 26c are operated in a predetermined batting order (any of the batting orders 3 to 6) and with the aim of displaying the symbol symbol has been described. Next, a stop mode when the stop buttons 26a to 26c are operated in a predetermined batting order (any of the batting orders 3 to 6) and without aiming to display the symbol symbol will be described. Here, the winning area "normal replay" and the winning areas "replay 1" to "replay 4" are designated as the winning area group A, and the winning area "weak cherry 1" and the winning area "weak cherry 2" are referred to as the winning area group B. do.

Win any of the winning areas in the winning area group A, and do not aim to display the symbol symbol (red 7 symbol "red 7" or blue 7 symbol "blue 7") in any of the hitting orders 3 to 6. When the stop buttons 26a to 26c are operated, the stop mode of the replay alignment shown in FIG. 44A is displayed. A more specific explanation will be given.
The stop buttons 26a to 26c were operated in the batting order in which the red 7-matched stop mode could appear (batting order 3 in the case of the winning area "Replay 1") and at the timing when the red 7-matched symbol combination could not be displayed. In this case, the reel control means 43 controls so that the stop mode of the replay alignment is displayed.
It is possible to display the symbol combination of "Red 7, Red 7, BAR" in the batting order that can make the stop mode of "Red 7, Red 7, BAR" appear (Batting order 4 in the case of the winning area "Replay 1"). When the stop buttons 26a to 26c are operated at a timing that cannot be achieved, the reel control means 43 controls so that the stop mode of the replay alignment is displayed.
Stop in the batting order that can make the stop mode of the blue 7 reels appear (either the batting order 5 or the batting order 6 in the winning area "Replay 1") and at the timing when the symbol combination of the blue 7 reels cannot be displayed. When the buttons 26a to 26c are operated, the reel control means 43 controls to display the stop mode of the replay alignment.

On the other hand, if any of the winning areas of the winning area group B is won and the stop buttons 26a to 26c are pressed in any of the batting orders 3 to 6 and without aiming to display the symbol symbol, the replays are complete. The stop mode is not displayed. At this time, when the stop button 26a is operated with the aim of stopping and displaying the cherry symbol "CH" on the left reel 20a, the reel control means 43 stops the weak cherry shown in FIG. 44 (b). Control so that the mode is displayed. A more specific explanation will be given.
The stop button is in the batting order that can make the red 7-matched stop mode appear (either the batting order 3 or the batting order 4 in the case of the winning area "weak cherry 1") and the timing when the red 7-matched symbol combination cannot be displayed. When the 26a to 26c are operated, the reel control means 43 controls so that the stop mode of the weak cherry can be displayed.
In the batting order that can make the stop mode of "Red 7, Red 7, BAR" appear (either 5 or 6 in the case of the winning area "Weak Cherry 1"), and in "Red 7, Red 7, BAR" When the stop buttons 26a to 26c are operated at a timing when the symbol combination cannot be displayed, the reel control means 43 controls so that the stop mode of the weak cherry can be displayed.

In this way, in the winning area "weak cherry 1" and the winning area "weak cherry 2", when the player cannot align the symbol combination of red 7 or the symbol combination of "red 7, red 7, BAR". The stop mode is determined (stop control is set) in consideration of (that is, when it is missed).

The stop mode of the weak cherry (first stop mode) is a stop mode suggesting an advantage. The suspension mode suggesting an advantage is a suspension mode suggesting the granting of a privilege related to the instruction function. The privilege granting means 82 performs a privilege granting lottery based on winning the winning area "weak cherry 1" or the winning area "weak cherry 2", but based on the result of the privilege granting lottery, the suspension suggesting an advantage. The aspect is controlled so that it can be displayed.

The reel control means 43 has one of the first operation order (batting order 1 and 2) when the result of the internal lottery is a predetermined result (winning in the winning area "weak cherry 1" or winning area "weak cherry 2"). ), The stop operation is controlled so as to be a first stop mode (a weak cherry stop mode) suggesting an advantage.
Further, the reel control means 43 has a second operation order (beating order 3 to 6) when the result of the internal lottery is a predetermined result (winning in the winning area "weak cherry 1" or the winning area "weak cherry 2"). When the stop operation in (any one) is performed at a timing when a specific symbol combination (a combination of symbols with 7 reds or a combination of symbols of "Red 7, Red 7, BAR") can be displayed, the stop mode is the specification. It is controlled so as to be in the second stop mode (a stop mode in which red 7 is aligned or a stop mode of "red 7, red 7, BAR") in which the symbol combination of is displayed.
Further, the reel control means 43 has a second operation order (batting order 3 to 6) when the result of the internal lottery is a predetermined result (winning in the winning area "weak cherry 1" or the winning area "weak cherry 2"). If the stop operation in (any one) is not performed at the timing when a specific symbol combination (red 7 matching symbol combination or "red 7, red 7, BAR" symbol combination) can be displayed, the stop mode is the first. It is controlled so that it can be one stop mode (stop mode of weak cherry).

The stop operation in the second operation order (any of batting order 3 to 6) when the winning area "weak cherry 1" or the winning area "weak cherry 2" is won cannot display the specific symbol combination. Even if it is performed at the timing, the stop mode of the weak cherry can be displayed. The player who could not display the specific symbol combination is placed in the winning area "weak cherry 1" or "weak cherry 2" when the stop mode of the stopped reel is the stop mode of the weak cherry. You can recognize that you have won. That is, the player can confirm that the stop mode suggests an advantage. As a result, the possibility that the player has doubts about the stopping mode can be reduced, and the playability is improved.

Further, the stopping mode is different between the winning area group A and the winning area group B when any of the batting orders 3 to 6 is performed without aiming to display the symbol symbol. Therefore, the player can distinguish (determine) whether the winning area is the winning area group A or the winning area group B (whether or not it is a rare role) based on the stop mode.

If any of the winning areas of the winning area group A is won and the batting order 1 or 2 is operated, the stop mode of the replay alignment is displayed, and the stop mode of the weak cherry is not displayed. However, if any of the winning areas of the winning area group A is won and any operation of batting order 3 to 6 is aimed at displaying the symbol symbol, the cherry symbol "CH" is placed in the lower row of the left reel 20a. May stop. In that case, the player may recognize that he / she has won any of the winning areas of the winning area group B. However, in the present embodiment, when the cherry symbol "CH" stops at the lower stage of the left reel 20a, the replay symbol "RP" stops at the upper stage of each reel 20a to 20c so as to line up in a straight line, and the replay alignment is stopped. The mode is displayed. Therefore, the player can recognize that he / she has won any of the winning areas A of the winning area group A instead of the winning area group B. That is, it is possible to distinguish whether the winning area is the winning area group A or the winning area group B.

When the winning area "weak cherry 1" or the winning area "weak cherry 2" is won, the stop buttons 26a to 26c are pressed at any timing regardless of the operation order of the stop buttons 26a to 26c. Even if it is operated, the stop mode of replay alignment does not appear.

Winning area group B (winning area "weak cherry 1", winning area "weak cherry 2") is more than winning area group A (winning area "normal replay", winning area "replay 1" to "replay 4"). It is a winning area that is advantageous for players when they win. Specifically, the winning area group B has a higher probability of being given the privilege related to the instruction function than the winning area group A. More specifically, regarding the lottery related to the instruction function, when the winning area group B is won, a lottery with a higher probability that the privilege related to the instruction function is given as compared with the time when the winning area group A is won, or the winning area group A lottery that is not held when A is won may be held. In this way, whether or not the winning area group B has been won is important information for the player, but according to the gaming machine of the present embodiment, when the winning area group B is won, the stop operation is performed in any batting order. Even if the player goes, the reels 20a to 20c can be stopped in the mode of stopping the weak cherry, so that the player can accurately grasp whether or not the winning area group B has been won.

In the game, the probability of winning the winning area group B is lower than the probability of winning the winning area group A. Specifically, in one game, the probability of winning the winning area group A is 1/20 or more, and the probability of winning the winning area group B is 1/50 or less. In addition, the winning area "weak cherry 1" and the winning area "weak cherry 2" are the same type of winning area (winning area related to replay), the winning area "normal replay", and the winning areas "replay 1" to "replay 4". The probability of winning is lower than each of these, and the winning area is more advantageous than these similar winning areas.
Further, in the gaming machine of the present embodiment, the winning area group A and the winning area group B are set as the winning areas of the replay, but the winning area group A and the winning area group B may be set as the winning areas of the small winning combination. In this case, the winning area of the winning area group A and the winning area of the winning area group B may be able to pay out the same number of medals at the time of winning.

When any of the winning areas "normal replay", winning area "replay 1" to "replay 4", winning area "weak cherry 1", and "weak cherry 2" shown in this embodiment is won. , The effect control means 100 may execute a batting order navigation effect or a symbol navigation effect (see the fourth embodiment for details). In the gaming machine of the present embodiment, the red 7 aiming effect and the blue 7 aiming effect may be executed as the symbol navigation effect.

In the gaming machine of the present embodiment, when the player can acquire a predetermined privilege (first privilege: for example, the right to shift to the special production state) when the red 7 aiming effect occurs, the batting order navigation is followed and the predetermined timing is used. When the stop operation is performed with, the reels 20a to 20c are stopped in the stop mode in which the red 7s are aligned.
Further, in the gaming machine of the present embodiment, when the red 7 aiming effect is generated, the player has a predetermined privilege different from the above privilege (second privilege: for example, the right to shift to a production state different from the special production state). When the stop operation is performed according to the batting order navigation and at a predetermined timing, the reels 20a to 20c are stopped in the stop mode of "Red 7, Red 7, BAR". That is, the red 7 symbol "red 7" and the BAR symbol "BAR" are symbol symbols used for notifying the grant of the first privilege or the second privilege.

Further, in the gaming machine of the present embodiment, when the player can acquire a predetermined privilege (third privilege: right to shift to the AT production state) when the blue 7 aiming effect is generated, the player follows the batting order navigation and is predetermined. When the stop operation is performed at the timing, the reels 20a to 20c are stopped in the stop mode in which the blue 7 is aligned. Further, in the gaming machine of the present embodiment, when the player cannot acquire the third privilege at the time of the blue 7 aiming effect, the reels 20a to 20c are set according to the batting order navigation and when the stop operation is performed at a predetermined timing. It is designed to stop in the stop mode of blue 7 all-in-one. That is, the blue 7 symbol is a symbol symbol used for notifying the grant of the third privilege.

Here, an example will be described in which the winning area “weak cherry 1” is won and the staging control means 100 executes the batting order navigation effect and the red 7 aiming effect. When the player aims to display the red 7 symbols "Red 7" in a straight line, the staging control means 100 instructs the player to press the stop buttons 26a to 26c in either the batting order 3 or the batting order 4. The batting order navigation display to be performed is displayed on the display device 13, and the symbol navigation display aiming to align the red 7 symbols "Red 7" is displayed on the display device 13. At this time, when the player operates the stop buttons 26a to 26c according to the batting order navigation display and aiming to display the red 7 symbol "red 7", the stop mode in which the red 7s are aligned is displayed.

At this time, the stop buttons 26a to 26c are in a batting order different from the batting order specified in the batting order navigation display (for example, (either of the batting order 5 or the batting order 6 in which the stop mode of "red 7, red 7, BAR" can appear)). When is operated, the batting order navigation display remains displayed until the start lever 24 of the next game is operated (until the next game is started). , The player and the like can be surely notified that the stop buttons 26a to 26c have not been operated according to the batting order navigation. This makes it possible to suppress the occurrence of misidentification in the game.

The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and can be variously modified and implemented without departing from the gist thereof. For example, the game control mode and configuration of the slot machine are not limited to those of the above-described embodiment. Further, the control operation described above can be applied not only to slot machines but also to other gaming machines such as pachinko gaming machines and medalless gaming machines. The present invention can be applied to a gaming machine, and the gaming machine includes a slot machine, a pachinko gaming machine, a medalless gaming machine, and the like.

It should be noted that, within the scope of the present invention, any combination of embodiments can be freely combined, any component of each embodiment can be modified, or any component can be omitted in each embodiment. ..

13 Liquid crystal display (display means)
20a, 20b, 20c Reel 26a, 26b, 26c Stop button (stop operation means)
100 Staging control means

Claims (1)

The main control board that controls the game,
A bet button for betting the game value and
Multiple reels with multiple types of symbols and
A plurality of stop operation means for detecting a stop operation for stopping the rotation of the reel, and
Display means for displaying images and
The image to be displayed on the display means is divided into a plurality of layers and managed, and the effect control means for controlling the effect via the display means is provided.
The effect includes a symbol display effect that notifies that the stop operation means is operated at a predetermined timing so that a predetermined symbol is displayed at a predetermined position.
The staging control means
When the symbol display effect is executed, the first image of the display corresponding to the predetermined symbol is arranged on the first layer, and the second image of the predetermined display is placed on the second layer higher than the first layer. When the first image is arranged in a state where a part of the first image is hidden, the first image and the second image are arranged so that the predetermined pattern can be recognized.
The main control board
A power failure occurs when the bet button is not pressed, the bet button is pressed during the power failure, and the bet button is returned from the power failure while the bet button is pressed, and the operation of the bet button is effective. Even if it becomes a state of being changed, the bet of the game value based on the pressing is not made and the bet is not made.
Even if the bet button is pressed during an error in which the operation of the bet button is invalidated and the operation of the bet button is enabled while the bet button is pressed, the pressing of the bet button is performed. Without betting the game value based on
Assuming that the bet button is pressed during the payout of the game value in which the operation of the bet button is invalidated, and the operation of the bet button is enabled while the bet button is pressed. Also, a gaming machine characterized in that the betting of the gaming value based on the pressing is not performed.

Images