JP4043404B2 - Slot machine - Google Patents

Description

[0001]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a slot machine, and more particularly to a change in a stage (so-called set value) set for a payout rate calculated based on an internal lottery probability or the like.
[0002]
[Prior art]
The slot machine generally includes a variable display device having a plurality of reels on which a plurality of types of symbols are drawn on the outer periphery, and a winning is generated according to a display mode when rotation of each reel is stopped. Depending on the type of winning, the medal is paid out as a valuable value, and the game shifts to a special gaming state called a big bonus or a regular bonus (hereinafter collectively referred to simply as a bonus). The game progresses in a state advantageous to the player.
[0003]
In order for a winning combination including a bonus to occur, it is necessary to win the winning combination in an internal lottery performed in advance (usually when the start lever is operated) and to set a corresponding winning flag. The winning probability of the internal lottery greatly affects the medal payout rate. In the slot machine, it is common to change the set value of the payout rate calculated based on the winning probability of the internal lottery.
[0004]
By the way, in recent slot machines, various kinds of effects are performed to improve the fun of the game, for bonus announcements and announcements, or as effects at the time of winning when a winning occurs. The types and modes of such effects tend to be particularly complicated in recent years, and the control circuit of the slot machine is used as a game control board for controlling the progress of the game and an effect control board for controlling the effects related to the game. Separately configured are common. In this case, in order to be able to produce an effect on the effect control board according to the set value, the set value must be sent by a command (control information) from the game control board to the effect control board (for example, a patent) Reference 1).
[0005]
[Patent Document 1]
Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2003-10381
[0006]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
In the slot machine of Patent Document 1, an illegal operation is performed when changing the set value by transmitting a state command including the set value from the game control board to the effect control board at the end of each game. Even if it is broken, it is possible to prevent a discrepancy between the actual set value on the game control board and the set value recognized on the effect control board.
[0007]
However, in the slot machine disclosed in Patent Document 1, a slight time lag may occur although the actual setting value on the game control board and the setting value recognized on the effect control board are unified. In particular, during the period during which the setting value changing operation is performed, the effect control board recognizes that the setting value is not changed. In addition, by changing the set value, the gaming state is also returned to the normal gaming state. However, during the period when the setting value changing operation is performed, the game before the setting value changing operation is performed on the effect control board. Recognize that the condition continues.
[0008]
In this way, until the setting value changing operation is completed, the setting value and gaming state recognition on the effect control board continues before the changing operation. As a result, until the setting value change operation is completed, the previous setting value or the game state may continue to be played, and the user feels bothered while performing the setting value change operation. There was something that would let me.
[0009]
The present invention prevents a state-based effect from continuing before a change operation when performing a change operation at a stage set for a payout rate calculated based on a probability that a winning is allowed, and the change operation It is an object to provide a slot machine that does not bother you sometimes.
[0010]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
  To achieve the above object, a slot machine according to the present invention includes:
  By setting the number of bets for one game, it is possible to start the game, and the display result of the variable display device capable of variably displaying a plurality of types of identification information each identifiable is derived and displayed. In the slot machine where the game is over and a predetermined winning can be generated according to the display result of the variable display device (variable display device 2),
  Game control means (game control board 101) for controlling the progress of the game and transmitting control information (command) according to the progress of the game;
  Receiving the control information transmitted from the game control means, and performing at least effects related to the game (bonus notice (notification) effects, winning effects, etc.) based on the received control information. Production control means (production control board 102) including possible production storage means (RAM 122, EEPROM, etc.),
  The game control means includes
  A pre-determining means (step S203) for pre-determining the occurrence of the predetermined winning with a predetermined probability;
Importance of information to be stored as a specific area (setting value work) for storing information indicating the stage set for the payout rate calculated based on the predetermined probability, and an area for storing information regarding the progress of the game Game storage means including a special area (special work) and a general area (general work) divided according to the game(RAM112, EEPROM, etc.)When,
  A stage in which a payout rate calculated based on at least the predetermined probability is set in a setting change period (a period from step S101 (Yes) to step S108 (Yes)) in which a predetermined setting change permission condition is satisfied. By operating a setting change operation means (setting switch 91) for changingStored in a specific areaSetting changing means (steps S109 to S112) for changing the stage;
Stage display control means (step S106) for causing the display means (game number display 51) to display the stage before the change in which information is stored in the game storage means when the setting change period is started;
  Initialization control information transmission means for transmitting initialization control information (initialization command) to the production control means for instructing initialization of storage information in the production storage means when the setting change period starts. Step S105)
  Setting control information transmitting means (step S114) for transmitting setting control information (status command) including information on the set stage after the change when the setting change period ends.When,
An initialization means (step S113) for initializing information stored in the general area of the areas included in the game storage means when the stage is changed by the setting change means;
  The effect control means initializes at least information related to the execution of the effect among the storage information of the effect storage means by receiving the initialization control information (step S310), and receives the setting control information. Stored storage information relating to the set stage is stored in the effect storage means (step S308).
  It is characterized by that.
[0011]
In the slot machine, the storage information relating to the execution of the effect in the effect storage means is initialized by the initialization control information transmitted when the setting change period starts. Thereby, during the change of the set stage, the production control means does not continue the production based on the stage before the change, and does not feel annoying. Further, information relating to the stage set by the setting control information transmitted when the setting change period ends is also stored in the effect storage means of the effect control means. This makes it possible to perform an effect based on the stage after the change immediately after the set stage is changed.
[0012]
In the above slot machine,
The setting change period may start when a predetermined setting change start operation is performed (the setting key switch 92 is turned on and the power is turned on). In this case,
The initialization control information transmitting means may transmit the initialization control information when the setting change start operation is performed.
[0013]
In this case, by performing a predetermined setting change start operation, information related to the effect of the effect control means can be initialized early.
[0014]
  The setting change period may end when a predetermined setting change end operation is performed (after the start lever 11 is operated, the setting key switch 92 is turned off). In this case,
  The setting control information transmitting unit may transmit the setting control information when the setting change end operation is performed.
In this case, by performing a predetermined setting change end operation, the stage set in the effect control means can also be reliably updated.
[0015]
In the above slot machine,
The game control means includes
Special gaming state control means for controlling the gaming state to a special gaming state advantageous to the player when a predetermined special winning occurs;
Special information storage means for storing, in the general area, special information indicating that the determination has been made when it is determined by the prior determination means that the occurrence of the special prize is permitted;
Special information carry-over means for carrying over the special information stored in the predetermined area until the special prize is generated when the special prize is not generated based on the special information stored in the predetermined area; Can be.
[0016]
  In the above slot machine,
  The initialization control information may be combined with other control information that the game control means transmits to the effect control means for the progress of the game.
  Here, when the game control means initializes all the information stored in the specific area, the special area, and the general area among the areas included in the game storage means, the initialization is performed. In the case of further comprising initialization control information transmission means for transmitting initialization notification control information for notifying the effect,
The initialization control information may be shared with the initialization notification control information.
[0017]
In the above slot machine,
The game control means includes
An activation time information judging means for judging whether or not the information stored in the game storage means is normal when the slot machine is activated;
A return control means for returning to the state before power interruption by the data stored in the game storage means when it is determined normal by the startup information determination means;
When it is determined that the startup information determination means is not normal,Game storage meansAll initialization means for initializing all the information stored in the specific area, the special area, and the general area among the areas included in
Game storage meansAn initial stage for transmitting initialization notification control information for notifying that the information has been initialized when all of the information stored in the specific area, the special area, and the general area is initialized. It is good also as a thing further provided with a control information transmission means.
[0018]
In the above slot machine,
The setting control information may also be combined with other control information that the game control means transmits to the effect control means for the progress of the game.
[0019]
In addition, when the game control means transmits game state notification control information (state command transmitted in step S208) to be transmitted in order to notify the game state in each game,
The setting control information may be used together with the gaming state notification control information.
[0020]
In this case, the type of control information can be limited, and the storage capacity required for the control information can be reduced. In addition, the load required for determining the type of control information in the effect control means can be reduced. In particular, by using the initialization control information also as the initialization notification control information, it is possible to initialize the storage information related to the performance of the effect storage means in accordance with the initialization of the storage information of the game storage means. In addition, by using the setting control information together with the game state notification control information transmitted in each game, it is possible to reliably prevent the recognition of the set stage in the game control means and the effect control means in each game. it can.
[0021]
In the above slot machine,
The game control means includes a game state control means (step S206) for shifting the game state to a special game state (big bonus, regular bonus) advantageous to the player when a predetermined condition is established, and the setting change period. It may further comprise game state initialization means (step S113: clear general work) for initializing at least information relating to the game state among the stored information of the game storage means when the game is completed. In this case,
The game control means may further comprise means for transmitting control information including information relating to the gaming state when transmitting the setting control information.
[0022]
  Here, the information regarding the gaming state may be transmitted by being included in the setting control information (gaming state notification control information).
In this case, when the set stage is changed, the gaming state controlled in accordance with the change is also notified to the effect control means. Thereby, in the production control means, the production according to the gaming state after changing the set stage can be reliably performed.
[0023]
In the above slot machine,
The game control means includes
Determination result information transmitting means for transmitting determination result information indicating the determination result of the prior determination means to the effect control means;
The determination result information transmitted to the effect control unit may further include a determination result information conversion unit that converts the determination result information to information indicating content different from the determination result of the prior determination unit with a predetermined probability.
[0024]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.
[0025]
FIG. 1 is a front view showing the overall structure of the slot machine according to this embodiment. FIG. 2 is a view showing an internal structure visually recognized with the front door of the slot machine of FIG. 1 opened. FIG. 3 is a view showing the structure of the rear side of the front door of the slot machine of FIG. The front door of the slot machine 1 can be opened by inserting a key into the locking device 19 (FIG. 1) and turning it clockwise.
[0026]
With reference to FIGS. 1 to 3, a variable display device 2 is provided on the upper front side of the slot machine 1. Inside the variable display device 2, a reel unit 3 including three reels 3L, 3C, and 3R is provided. The reels 3L, 3C, and 3R are rotated / stopped by driving the reel motors 3ML, 3MC, and 3MR, respectively.
[0027]
On the outer peripheries of the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R, symbols such as “colorless 7”, “colored 7”, “BAR”, “JAC”, “watermelon”, “cherry”, and “bell” are in a predetermined order. It is drawn in. The symbols drawn on the outer peripheries of the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R are displayed on the variable display device 2 in the upper, middle, and lower three stages. The reel unit 3 is provided with reel sensors 3SL, 3SC, 3SR for detecting the reference position of each of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R, and a reel lamp 3LP for irradiating light from the back. Yes.
[0028]
Various display units are provided around the variable display device 2. Below the variable display device 2, a game number display unit 21, a credit display unit 22, and a payout display unit 23 are provided. The game number display unit 21 is composed of a game number display 51 by a 7-segment display, and displays the value of a counter that counts the number of games and the number of winnings at the time of a big bonus or a regular bonus described later. The game number display unit 21 is also used for displaying setting values to be described later.
[0029]
The credit display unit 22 is constituted by a credit display 52 by a 7-segment display, and displays the number of credits accumulated as data according to the number of inserted medals and the number of paid-out coins as will be described later. The payout display unit 23 is composed of a 7-segment display payout display 53, and displays the number of medals to be paid out when winning is achieved.
[0030]
On the left side of the variable display device 2, a one-bet display unit 24, two-bet display units 25 and 26, and three-bet display units 27 and 28 are provided. The 1, 2, and 3 bet display sections 24 to 28 correspond to the activated lines according to the number of bets (hereinafter referred to as “active lines”), respectively. When 58 is turned on, an effective line in each game is shown to the player. The 1-sheet, 2-sheet, 3-sheet betting display sections 24 to 28 are also configured so that the 1-sheet, 2-sheet, 3-sheet betting lamps 54-58 are in a blinking state when a winning combination to be described later is made, The active line that won the combination to be described later is shown to the player.
[0031]
On the right side of the variable display device 2, an insertion instruction display unit 29, a start display unit 30, a weight display unit 31, a replay display unit 32, and a game over display unit 33 are provided. The insertion instruction display unit 29 indicates that a medal can be inserted when the insertion instruction lamp 59 is turned on. The start display unit 30 indicates that the start lamp 60 is turned on, so that the start can be started, that is, the operation of the start lever 11 can be accepted. The weight display unit 31 indicates that a weight to be described later is applied when the weight lamp 61 is turned on. The replay display unit 32 indicates that a replay winning to be described later has been made when the replay lamp 62 is turned on. The game over display unit 33 indicates that the slot machine 1 has been stopped when the game over lamp 63 is turned on.
[0032]
On the upper side of the variable display device 2, a liquid crystal display 4 is provided as a production means. The liquid crystal display 4 displays various effect images according to the gaming state. An image for production is composed of a series of moving images, for example, and it is announced that there is a possibility of winning an internal lottery, which will be described later, or that there is a possibility depending on the process and final screen of the production (internal lottery Notifying that the winning probability is 100%) or notice (notifying that there is a possibility of winning the internal lottery). The effect for the advance notice or notification is also performed using an effect device other than the liquid crystal display 4.
[0033]
A medal slot 13, a single BET button 14, a MAXBET button 15, and a checkout button 16 are provided on a horizontal surface of a trapezoidal portion provided below the variable display device 2. The BET button lamps 70a and 70b (see FIG. 4), which are turned on when the number of bets can be set from the credits (maximum 50) accumulated as data, are arranged inside the single BET button 14 and the MAX BET button 15. Has been.
[0034]
The medal insertion slot 13 is for a player to insert a medal from here, and when the insertion medal sensor 44 detects the insertion of a medal when the insertion instruction unit 29 is lit, the number of bets is set. Alternatively, credits are accumulated as data. The single BET button 14 and the MAX BET button 15 are buttons operated by the player when setting the number of bets (1, 3 respectively) from the credits accumulated as data. When it is detected by the sheet BET switch 45 (see FIG. 4) or the MAXBET switch 46 (see FIG. 4), the bet number from the credit is set. The settlement button 16 is a button for instructing the payout of credits. When an operation is detected by the settlement switch 47 (see FIG. 4), medals corresponding to the credits accumulated as data are paid out.
[0035]
A start lever 11 and stop buttons 12L, 12C, and 12R are provided on the vertical surface of the trapezoidal portion. The start lever 11 is operated by the player when starting the game. When the operation is detected by the start switch 41 (see FIG. 4), the reel drive motors 3ML, 3MC, 3MR are started to be driven. 3L, 3C, and 3R start to rotate. The start lever 11 is also used for confirming a set value changed by an operation described later.
[0036]
The stop buttons 12L, 12C, and 12R are buttons that the player operates to stop the rotation of the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R at a desired timing, respectively, and the operations are stop switches 42L, 42C, and 42R (see FIG. 4). Is detected, the rotation of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R is stopped. It is shown to the player that the operation of the stop buttons 12L, 12C, 12R is possible by turning on the operation effective lamps 63L, 63C, 63R (see FIG. 4) provided therein.
[0037]
Further, a panel that covers the stop buttons 12L, 12C, and 12R is applied as the bonus notification section 36. The bonus notification unit 36 notifies the player that a big bonus winning flag or a regular bonus winning flag, which will be described later, is set with a probability of 100% by turning on the bonus notification lamp 66 (see FIG. 4). To do. Further, on the right side of the stop button 12R, there is provided a medal clogging elimination button 18 that mechanically vibrates the slot machine 1 when a medal is jammed.
[0038]
On the lower front side of the slot machine 1, a medal payout port 71 and a medal storage tray 72 are provided. The medal payout port 71 discharges medals paid out by the hopper 80 to the outside. The hopper 80 includes a hopper motor 82 that performs a medal payout operation, and a payout sensor 81 that detects the medal payout. The medal storage tray 72 is for storing paid-out medals. The front panel on the medal storage tray 72 is irradiated with light emitted from the fluorescent lamp 6 (see FIG. 4) installed therein. A full tank sensor 90 is provided inside the overflow tank 95 for storing medals overflowing from the hopper 80 to detect that the stored medals are full.
[0039]
Speakers 7U, 7L, and 7R are provided as rendering means on the lower front side of the slot machine 1 and on the left and right sides of the upper front side, respectively. Speakers 7U, 7L, and 7R output sound effects at the time of winning, big bonus and regular bonus entry, and output of alarm sound at the time of abnormality, and also output sound for various effects according to the gaming state Do.
[0040]
Further, on the front side of the slot machine 1, a game effect display unit 5 </ b> A that produces an effect by light by light emission of the game effect lamps 75 </ b> A to 75 </ b> M as an effect means so as to surround the variable display device 2 and the liquid crystal display 4. ~ 5M are provided. The game effect display units 5A to 5M perform effects by light in various patterns according to the progress of the game. Note that the light emission colors of the game effect display units 5A to 5M may be either single colors or multiple colors.
[0041]
In addition, a setting switch for changing a setting value (setting 1 to setting 6) of a medal payout rate calculated based on the winning probability for an internal lottery to be described later is set inside the slot machine 1 91, a setting key switch 92 for enabling the setting switch 91 to operate, a second reset switch 93 for resetting the internal state (RAM 112 (see FIG. 5)), and a main unit 94 for switching the power ON / OFF. 9 is provided.
[0042]
The setting key switch 92 has a keyhole, and is turned on by a key operation in which a key corresponding to the keyhole is inserted and rotated by a quarter, and the operation of the setting switch 91 is validated. When the key is rotated by a quarter turn in the opposite direction and returned to the original position, the setting key switch 92 is turned off, and the operation of the setting switch 91 becomes invalid. Since the operation of the setting switch 91 requires the unlocking operation of the setting key switch 92, it can be performed only by a person having specific authority such as a store clerk of a game shop.
[0043]
As a control board for controlling each of the above parts, a power supply board 100 arranged on the lower side inside the game, a game control board 101 arranged on the upper side inside, a reel relay board 103, a reel lamp relay board 104, an external output board 105, and An effect control board 102 arranged on the back side of the front door is provided. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a configuration of a control circuit of the slot machine 1 including the control boards 100 to 105. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing circuit components and signal wirings mounted on the game control board 101 and the effect control board 102.
[0044]
The power supply board 100 transforms an external power supply voltage of AC 100V and supplies operating power to the game control board 101 and other parts of the slot machine 1. In FIG. 4, only the game control board 101 and the hopper 80 are connected, but power is also supplied to other units. In addition, a setting switch 91, a setting key switch 92, a second reset switch 93, and a main switch 94 are connected to the power supply board 100, and detection signals from these switches are sent to the game control board 101.
[0045]
The game control board 101 is a control board on the main side that controls the overall flow of the game in the slot machine 1, and includes a control unit 110 including a CPU 111, a RAM 112, a ROM 113, and an I / O port 114. It is installed. Further, a random number generation circuit 115, a sampling circuit 116, a buffer circuit 117, a switch circuit 118, a motor circuit 119 and other circuits are mounted.
[0046]
The CPU 111 has a timekeeping function and a timer interrupt function, executes a program (described later) stored in the ROM 113 to perform processing related to the progress of the game, and directly or indirectly controls each part of the control circuit in the slot machine 1. To control. The RAM 112 is used as a work area when the CPU 111 executes a program. In the work area of the RAM 112, there are set value works for saving set values, special works for saving important data, and general works for saving ordinary data, each with different initialization conditions. ing. An area for setting a winning flag and an area for setting a bonus flag, which will be described later, are provided in the general work. The ROM 113 stores programs executed by the CPU 111 and fixed data. The I / O port 114 inputs and outputs control signals to and from each circuit connected to the game control board 101.
[0047]
The random number generation circuit 115 is configured by a counter that counts at predetermined time intervals by a system clock or the like, and the sampling circuit 116 acquires a numerical value generated by the random number generation circuit 115. The CPU 111 obtains a numerical value indicated by the random number generation circuit 115 as a random number by sending an instruction to the sampling circuit 116 according to the processing. The CPU 111 transmits various commands (control information) described later to the effect control board 102 via the I / O port 114 and the buffer circuit 117. Note that information is sent from the game control board 101 to the effect control board 102 in only one direction, and no information is sent from the effect control board 102 to the game control board 101.
[0048]
Connected to the game control board 101 are a single BET switch 45, a MAXBET switch 46, a start switch 41, stop switches 42L, 42C, 42R, a settlement switch 47, a first reset switch 48, and a throw-in medal sensor 44. Detection signals from the switches / sensors are input. In addition, detection signals of the reel sensors 3SL, 3SC, and 3SR are input via the reel relay substrate 103. In accordance with the detection signals of these switches / sensors input via the I / O port 114 or the detection signals of various switches input via the power supply board 100 as described above, the CPU 111 on the game control board 101 Processing is in progress.
[0049]
The game control board 101 also includes a flow path switching solenoid 49, a game number display 51, a credit display 52, a payout display 53, a loading instruction lamp 59, a single betting lamp 54, two betting lamps 55, 56, Three betting lamps 57 and 58, a game over lamp 63, a start lamp 60, a replay lamp 62, BET button lamps 70a and 70b, and operation valid lamps 63L, 63C, and 63R are connected, and the CPU 111 follows the progress of the game. These operations are controlled.
[0050]
The game control board 101 is connected to reel motors 3ML, 3MC, and 3MR via a reel relay board 103. The CPU 111 refers to the reel control table corresponding to the gaming state in the ROM 113, controls the reel motors 3ML, 3MC, 3MR via the motor circuit 119 and the reel relay board 103, and stops the reels 3L, 3C, 3R. Let
[0051]
The effect control board 102 is a sub-side control board that controls the execution of effects in the slot machine 1, and is equipped with a control unit 120 including a one-chip microcomputer including a CPU 121, a RAM 122, a ROM 123, and an I / O port 124. Yes. In addition, the random number generation circuit 125 and the sampling circuit 126 are mounted, and the CPU 121 acquires the value counted by the random number generation circuit 125 by the sampling circuit 126 as a random number.
[0052]
The CPU 121 executes a program (described later) stored in the ROM 123 to perform processing related to the execution of the effect, and controls each circuit in the effect control board 102 and each circuit connected thereto. The performance is executed based on a command received from the game control board 101 via the buffer circuit 127 and the I / O port 124. The RAM 122 is used as a work area when the CPU 121 executes a program. The ROM 123 stores programs executed by the CPU 121 and fixed data. The I / O port 124 inputs and outputs control signals to and from each circuit connected to the effect control board 102.
[0053]
The effect control board 102 is connected with a game effect lamp 75 (75A to 75M), a liquid crystal display 4, a speaker 7 (7L, 7R, 7U), a fluorescent lamp 6, a weight lamp 61, and a bonus notification lamp 66, In order to drive these, a speaker drive circuit 131, a display drive circuit 132, a lamp drive circuit 133, and the like are provided. A reel lamp 3LP is connected via a reel lamp relay substrate 104. The control unit of the effect control board 102 performs these effects by controlling these parts.
[0054]
The reel relay board 103 relays between the game control board 101, the external output board 105 and the reel unit 3. The reel relay substrate 103 is also connected with a full sensor 90, and its detection signal is input. The reel lamp relay board 104 relays between the effect control board 102 and the reel unit 3. The external output board 105 is connected to an external device such as a hall management computer and receives a big bonus medium signal, regular bonus medium signal, reel control signal, stop signal input from the game control board 101 via the reel relay board 103. The switch signal, medal IN signal, and medal OUT signal are output to the external device.
[0055]
In the slot machine 1, a winning is awarded when the symbols are arranged on the active line set according to the betting number of the variable display device 2. When a winning occurs, the gaming state is shifted according to the type of the combination, and medals are paid out. In order for a winning to occur, the internal winning flag of the combination needs to be set, and details thereof will be described later.
[0056]
In the normal gaming state, when, for example, three “BARs” are arranged on the active line corresponding to the number of bets, a regular bonus is awarded, and the gaming state shifts to the regular bonus until a predetermined end condition is satisfied. For example, if there are 3 “colored 7” or 3 “colorless 7” on the active line according to the number of bets, a big bonus will be won and the gaming state will continue until a predetermined ending condition is met. Will shift to a big bonus. Note that the state shifted to the regular bonus and the big bonus are respectively referred to as a first special game state and a second special game state, and a regular bonus medium flag and a big bonus medium flag are set in the RAM 112 in the game control board 101.
[0057]
In addition, when “watermelon” or “bell” is aligned on the active line, or “cherry” appears on the left reel 3L, a small role winning is obtained. In the normal gaming state, when “JAC” is aligned on the active line, a replay prize is awarded. Replay is not a small role in a strict sense, but it is common in that it does not involve a transition in gaming state, so if you simply say “small role”, all that do not involve a transition in gaming state such as a replay prize Including any type of prize. In addition, a simple “bonus” includes both a big bonus and a regular bonus.
[0058]
Next, the internal lottery will be described. In the internal lottery, it is determined in advance whether or not winnings to each of the above-mentioned roles is permitted. The random number for internal lottery acquired using the hardware random number function, the setting by the setting switch 91, and the player setting Based on the number of bets placed and the current gaming state, the winning determination table prepared in the ROM 113 is referred to, and the CPU 111 performs such a determination means. When the internal lottery is won, a winning flag corresponding to the winning combination is set in the RAM 112 of the game control board 101.
[0059]
Based on the result of the above internal lottery, a big bonus winning flag, a regular bonus winning flag, and a small bonus winning flag (there are multiple depending on the type of small bonus) are set in the RAM 112 in the game control board 101. Only one winning flag is newly set in one game. The small role winning flag is not carried over to the next game transition, but only the big bonus winning flag and the regular bonus winning flag are carried over from the next game until the actual winning.
[0060]
The setting status of the winning flag is sent from the game control board 101 to the effect control board 102 as a winning status notification command in each game. However, in order to prevent the winning flag setting status from being completely output to the game control board 101, the content of the winning status notification command has a predetermined probability within a range that does not affect the bonus notification on the effect control board 102. It is good also as what is converted by.
[0061]
In addition, the presence / absence of a winning and the type of winning that has occurred are also sent from the game control board 101 to the effect control board 102 as a winning information command in each game. Furthermore, at the end of each game, a state command including information on the set value and whether or not a bonus is in progress (that is, the setting status of the bonus flag) is sent from the game control board 101 to the effect control board 102.
[0062]
Next, changing the set value will be described. In order to change the setting value, it is necessary to turn on the power of the slot machine 1 by the main switch 92 after the setting key switch 92 is turned on. When the power is turned on without setting key switch 92 turned on, if the data in RAM 112 is normal, it returns to the state before the power is turned off. However, if the data in RAM 112 is broken and cannot be restored to the state before the power is turned off. The RAM 112 is cleared and the set value is set to 1. At this time, an initialization command is sent from the game control board 101 to the effect control board 102.
[0063]
When the setting key switch 92 is turned on and the power is turned on, the setting value can be changed. Before the setting value can be changed, an initialization command is sent from the game control board 101 to the effect control board. 102. This initialization command is also used as the same command as the initialization command sent to the effect control board 102 when the RAM 112 is cleared.
[0064]
When the setting switch 91 is operated during a period during which the setting value can be changed, the setting value is updated by 1 (when the operation is further performed from the setting 6, the setting is returned to the setting 1). Then, when the setting key switch 92 is turned off after the start lever 11 is operated, the change of the setting value is confirmed. At this time, the general work in the RAM 112 is cleared, and if the bonus winning flag is set, it is deleted. If the bonus winning flag is set, this is deleted. In addition, a state command is sent from the game control board 101 to the effect control board 102 upon confirmation of the set value. This state command is also used as a status command sent to the effect control board 102 at the end of each game. .
[0065]
The operation in the slot machine 1 according to this embodiment will be described below. The operation of the slot machine 1 is started when the power is turned on by turning on the main switch 94, and special processing is performed when the power is turned on.
[0066]
FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing processing executed by the CPU 111 of the game control board 101 when the power is turned on. When the power of the slot machine 1 is turned on, it is first determined whether or not the setting key switch 92 is turned on by a key operation (step S101). If the setting key switch 92 is in the OFF state, it is determined whether the data in the RAM 112 is not broken and is in a normal state (step S102). If the RAM 112 is in a normal state, the state returns to the state before the power is shut off, and the game process is started.
[0067]
If the data in the RAM 112 is broken, the RAM 112 (including at least a general work, a special work, and a set value work) is cleared. Further, 1 is stored as the initial value of the set value in the cleared set value work (step S103). Further, an initialization command is generated and transmitted to the effect control board 102 (step S104). Then, a game process to be described later is started.
[0068]
If the setting key switch 92 is in the ON state, first, an initialization command is generated and transmitted to the effect control board 102 (step S105). Further, the set value stored in the set value work is read out to a predetermined area and the game number display unit 51 is controlled to display the set value on the game number display unit 21 (step S106).
[0069]
Next, it is determined whether or not the start lever 11 is operated (step S107). If the start lever 11 is not operated, the process proceeds to step S109 as it is. If the start lever 11 has been operated, it is determined whether or not the setting key switch 92 has been turned off (step S108). If the setting key switch 92 is not turned off, the process proceeds to step S109.
[0070]
In step S109, it is determined whether the setting switch 91 has been operated. If the setting switch 91 has not been operated, the process returns to step S106. If the setting switch 91 is operated, the set value is incremented by 1 (step S110), and it is determined whether or not the addition result is 7 (step S111). If the added result is not 7, the process returns to step S106 as it is. If the result of addition is 7, the set value is returned to the initial value 1 (step S112), and the process returns to step S106. When the setting value is updated in this way and the process returns to step S106, the updated setting value is displayed on the game number display unit 21.
[0071]
If the start lever 11 is operated in step S107 and the setting key switch 92 is turned off in step S108, the data of the general work in the RAM 112 is cleared. Thereby, when the bonus winning flag is set, it is deleted. If the bonus medium flag is set, it is deleted. Further, the current set value is confirmed, stored in the set value work, and the game number display unit 51 is controlled to delete the set value displayed on the game number display unit 21 in step S106 ( Step S113).
[0072]
Further, a state command transmission process is executed to generate a state command based on the current set value, the big bonus medium flag, and the regular bonus medium flag stored in the RAM 112, and transmit this to the effect control board 102 (step). S114). This state command transmission process is the same as that executed at the end of the process of one game described below. Then, the game processing described next is started.
[0073]
When the process at the time of power-on is completed and the state before the power-off is restored or the game is started, the process for each game is repeated. In the following description, “game” includes a series of processes from setting the bet amount to rotating / stopping the reels 3L, 3C, 3R. Furthermore, if any processing (for example, payout of medals or transition of gaming state) is performed after the rotation of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R is stopped, this is also included as processing within one game. To do.
[0074]
FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing processing for one game executed by the CPU 111 of the game control board 101. This process is also executed after the power is turned on and a predetermined boot process is performed, or immediately after the setting is changed by operating the setting switch 91. When the process of one game is started, first, an initial process including a process of clearing a predetermined area of the RAM 112 is performed (step S201).
[0075]
Next, the number of bets is set by operating one BET button 14 or MAXBET button 15 or by inserting medals from the medal insertion slot 13, and operating the start lever 11 to substantially change the game. BET processing for instructing start is performed (step S202). However, if the player has won a replay in the previous game, the same number of bets as in the previous game are automatically set by the replay flag (the replay flag is erased at this stage), so the start lever 11 is operated as it is. You can tell the start of the game.
[0076]
When the number of bets is set by the BET process and the start lever 11 is operated, a lottery process is performed to determine whether or not winning as described above is permitted (step S203). In this lottery process, the winning flags of the above-mentioned combinations are set in the RAM 112 based on the respective lottery results. In addition, a winning status notification command indicating the setting status of the winning flag is transmitted to the effect control board 102.
[0077]
When the lottery process is completed, a reel fluctuation start process is performed (step S204). In the reel fluctuation start process, the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R in the previous game are processed on the condition that a predetermined time (for example, 4.1 seconds) has elapsed from the start of rotation of the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R. The motors 3ML, 3MC, and 3MR are driven to start rotation of all the left, middle, and right reels 3L, 3C, and 3R. Thereby, the symbols are variably displayed on the variable display device 2. If the predetermined time has not elapsed since the start of rotation in the previous game, the rotation display waits and the weight display unit 31 is notified by lighting the weight lamp 61. Note that the order of starting the rotation of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R may be changed according to the state of various flags set in the RAM 112. At the start of rotation, the reel stop timer and the timing of one game timer for the next game are started.
[0078]
Thereafter, reel fluctuation stop processing is performed (step S205). In the reel fluctuation stop process, after a predetermined condition is established from the start of reel rotation (the reference position is detected by the reel sensors 3SL, 3SC, 3SR after the rotation speed reaches a certain speed), the stop buttons 12L, 12C , 12R is made effective, and the reel motors 3ML, 3MC, and 3MR are stopped by being operated by the player, and the rotation of the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R is stopped. Further, when a predetermined time (for example, 30 seconds) elapses for the time measured by the reel stop timer, the driving of the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R is forcibly stopped.
[0079]
When the driving of each of the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R is stopped, whether or not any of the above-mentioned roles has been arranged on the active line corresponding to the bet number set in the BET process in step S202 in the display mode at the time of stopping. A winning determination process is performed (step S206). In this winning determination process, various processes corresponding to the winnings generated on the game control board 101 are performed. Here, the processing includes setting the number of payouts according to the winning combination, erasing the bonus winning flag when the bonus is won, and setting the bonus flag. In addition, a winning information command indicating the presence / absence of a winning and the type of winning is transmitted to the effect control board 102.
[0080]
When the winning determination process ends, a payout process is performed (step S207). In the payout process, the credit is increased by the number of payout scheduled medals set in the winning determination process. However, when the number of credits accumulated as data reaches 50, the hopper motor 82 is driven to pay out an excess number of medals from the medal payout slot 71. In addition, various settings not related to winning are also made, the number of games at the time of bonus is counted, and the bonus flag is deleted when the bonus ending condition is satisfied. The small role winning flag is also deleted.
[0081]
When the payout process ends, a status command transmission process is performed (step S208). The state command transmission process generates a state command based on the current set value, the big bonus medium flag, and the regular bonus medium flag stored in the RAM 112, and transmits them to the effect control board 102. In step S114, Same as executed. Then, the process for one game ends, and the process for the next one game starts.
[0082]
In the repetition of the game as described above, the CPU 111 of the game control board 101 performs a transition of the game state between the normal game state, the regular bonus, and the big bonus, and controls the effects according to the progress of the game. It is transmitted to the substrate 102. On the other hand, the CPU 121 of the effect control board 102 performs an original effect such as a bonus notice (notification) effect based on the command received from the game control board 101. Hereinafter, processing executed by the CPU 121 of the effect control board 102 to perform various effects will be described.
[0083]
FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing command reception standby processing executed by the CPU 121 of the effect control board 102. On the side of the effect control board 102, it is determined whether or not a command sent from the game control board 101 has been received (step S301). Until the command is received, the processing in step S301 is repeated, and the command is waiting to be received. When any command is received from the game control board 101, it is determined what kind of the received command is (step S302).
[0084]
If the received command type is the winning status notification command transmitted in the lottery process in step S203, a random number for determining the notice (notification) effect is extracted, and the extracted random number value and the winning status notification command are displayed. Based on the setting status of the winning flag shown and the current gaming state (during big bonus, regular bonus or non-bonus), whether or not to give a bonus notice (or announcement) effect, and a bonus notice (which determines the mode) Notification) A lottery is performed (step S303).
[0085]
Next, it is determined whether or not it has been decided to perform the bonus notice (or notice) effect based on the result of the bonus notice (notification) lottery (step S304). When the bonus advance notice (and notification) effect is not performed, the process directly returns to step S301. When a bonus notice (or announcement) effect is performed, an image is displayed on the liquid crystal display 4 according to the determined effect mode, the game effect LED 75 and / or the reel lamp 3LP is turned on, or a sound is output from the speaker 7. Then, a bonus notice (or notification) effect is performed (step S305). Then, the process returns to step S301.
[0086]
If the received command type is the winning information command transmitted in the winning determination process in step S206, it is determined whether or not the winning information command indicates a winning combination of some kind (step S306). If no winning combination is indicated, the process returns to step S301. If any winning combination is indicated, the betting number lamps 54 to 58 corresponding to the winning line are blinked, and an image is displayed on the liquid crystal display 4 in accordance with a mode according to the winning combination. The effect LED 75 and / or the reel lamp 3LP are turned on, or a sound is output from the speaker 7 to perform a winning effect (step S307). Then, the process returns to step S301.
[0087]
If the received command type is the status command transmitted in the status command transmission process of step S114 or S208, the RAM 122 stores the setting value indicated by the status command and the information indicating that the big bonus or regular bonus is being used. Save (step S308). Then, the process returns to step S301.
[0088]
When the received command type is the initialization command transmitted in step S104 or S105, an image is displayed on the liquid crystal display 4, the game effect LED 75 and / or the reel lamp 3LP is turned on, or from the speaker 7. The production currently being performed is stopped by the output of the voice (step S309). When the production is stopped, the data in the RAM 122 is cleared. At this time, the stored setting value is also cleared (step S310). Then, the process returns to step S301.
[0089]
If the received command type is another command, processing corresponding to the type of each command (the details are omitted because it is not related to the present invention) is executed (step S311). Thereafter, the process returns to step S301.
[0090]
As described above, in the slot machine 1 according to this embodiment, the setting value can be changed by turning on the main switch 92 with the setting key switch 92 in the ON state. The initialization command is transmitted to the effect control board 102. By receiving this initialization command, the effect control board 102 stops the effect being executed and the data in the RAM 122 is cleared. For this reason, the RAM 122 of the effect control board 102 can also be cleared early in the first stage of the setting value changing operation. And when changing the setting value, the effect based on the setting value before the change is not continued on the effect control board 102, so that there is no inconvenience due to such effect.
[0091]
When the setting key switch 92 is turned off after operating the start lever 11, a state command including information regarding the setting value is transmitted to the effect control board 102. By receiving this state command, the changed set value is also stored in the RAM 122 of the effect control board 102. As a result, the setting key switch 92 is turned off after the start lever 11 is operated, so that the setting value recognized on the side of the effect control board 102 is also reliably updated to the changed one, and the setting value changing operation In the game after ending, the production based on the changed set value can be surely performed.
[0092]
By the way, the initialization command transmitted to the effect control board 102 when the setting key switch 92 is turned on and the power is turned on is also used as the initialization command transmitted when the data in the RAM 112 is broken and cleared. Has been. The state command transmitted to the effect control board 102 when the setting key switch 92 is turned off by operating the start lever 11 and the set value is confirmed is also used as the state command transmitted at the end of each game. . By using the initialization command and the status command in this way, the storage capacity necessary for handling a plurality of types of commands on the game control board 101 and the effect control board 102 can be reduced. In addition, the processing load when the CPU 121 of the effect control board 102 determines the type of command can be reduced.
[0093]
Further, since the initialization command is transmitted when the RAM 112 of the game control board 101 is cleared, the RAM 122 of the effect control board 102 can be cleared in accordance with the clearing of the RAM 112. Since the state command is also transmitted in each game, it is possible to prevent a game in which there is a discrepancy between the setting value recognized on the game control board 101 side and the setting value recognized on the effect control board 102 side. Can do.
[0094]
Further, when the set value after the change is confirmed, the general work in the RAM 112 is cleared, but this is deleted even if the bonus winning flag is set, even if the bonus flag is set, this is deleted Will be. Since the status command includes not only information related to the set value but also information related to the setting status of the bonus flag, a game that is recognized on the side of the effect control board 102 in a game that is performed after the setting value is changed. The state does not conflict with the gaming state recognized on the side of the game control board 101, and it is possible to reliably perform the production according to the gaming state.
[0095]
The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and various modifications and applications are possible. Hereinafter, modifications of the above-described embodiment applicable to the present invention will be described.
[0096]
In the above embodiment, information related to the progress of the game and information related to the execution of the effect, and information that needs to be changed are stored in the RAMs 112 and 122 of the game control board 101 and the effect control board 102, respectively. It was a thing. On the other hand, information that is not frequently updated, such as set values, may be stored in an electrically rewritable nonvolatile memory (EEPROM, flash memory, etc.). Corresponding to the initialization of the data in the RAMs 112 and 122 in the above embodiment, the data in such a nonvolatile memory may be initialized.
[0097]
In the above embodiment, there are only a big bonus and a regular bonus as game states advantageous to the player other than the normal game state, both of which are controlled by processing by the game control board 101. . On the other hand, AT (Assist Time) for notifying the type of the selected small role and the stop buttons 12L, 12C, and 12R for winning the small role is a gaming state advantageous to the player other than the bonus. It may be provided. This AT can be controlled by processing by the effect control board 102.
[0098]
Announcement probability of AT lottery whether or not to shift gaming state to AT, determination probability of number of AT games from transitioning gaming state to AT to end, notification for each game when gaming state is AT The probability and the like can also be different according to the set value. Since the setting value recognized by the effect control board 102 can be reliably updated by transmitting the state command when the change of the setting value is confirmed as described above, the setting value recognized by the game control board 101 Thus, the AT control can be performed on the effect control board 102 without causing any discrepancy.
[0099]
In the above embodiment, it is possible to display and change the setting value of the winning probability of internal lottery or display the number of bonus winning stock by inserting a key into the keyhole of the setting key switch 92 and rotating it. It was. As the setting key switch 92, a key operated by inputting a password from a numeric key may be applied. Also, instead of turning this setting key switch 92 to the ON state, when an IC card in which specific information is written is inserted into the card slot, display or change of the set value of the winning probability of internal lottery, or bonus winning The number of stocks may be displayed.
[0100]
In the above embodiment, the variable display device 2 includes the three reels 3L, 3C, and 3R in which a plurality of symbols are arranged in a predetermined order on the outer periphery, and the symbols are driven by rotational driving of these reels 3L, 3C, and 3R. Was variably displayed. However, a device that virtually displays a symbol on a display device such as a liquid crystal display device may be used instead of the variable display device 2 described above.
[0101]
【The invention's effect】
According to the first aspect of the present invention, when the set stage is changed, the storage information relating to the execution of the stage by the stage storage means is initialized, so that the stage based on the stage before the change can be continued. There is no annoyance. Further, immediately after changing the set stage, it is also stored in the effect storage means, and an effect based on the changed stage can be performed.
[0102]
According to invention of Claim 2, the information regarding the production | presentation of an effect control means can be initialized at an early stage by performing predetermined setting change start operation.
[0103]
According to the invention of claim 3, by performing a predetermined setting change end operation, the stage set in the effect control means can also be reliably updated.
[0104]
According to invention of Claim 4, the kind of control information can be restrict | limited and the memory capacity required regarding control information can be made small. In addition, the load required for determining the type of control information in the effect control means can be reduced.
[0105]
According to the fifth aspect of the present invention, it is also possible to initialize the storage information relating to the execution of the effect of the effect storage means means in accordance with the initialization of the storage information of the game storage means.
[0106]
According to the sixth aspect of the invention, the type of control information can be limited, and the storage capacity required for the control information can be reduced. In addition, the load required for determining the type of control information in the effect control means can be reduced.
[0107]
According to the seventh aspect of the present invention, it is possible to reliably prevent the recognition of the set stage in the game control means and the effect control means in each game.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a front view showing an overall structure of a slot machine according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a view showing an internal structure visually recognized with the front door of the slot machine of FIG. 1 opened.
3 is a view showing the structure of the back side of the front door of the slot machine of FIG. 1. FIG.
4 is a block diagram showing an overall configuration of a control circuit of the slot machine of FIG. 1. FIG.
FIG. 5 is a diagram showing circuit components and signal wirings mounted on a game control board and an effect control board.
FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing processing executed by a control unit in the game control board when power is turned on.
FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing processing executed by the control unit in the game control board for each game.
FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing processing executed by a control unit in the effect control board.
[Explanation of symbols]
1 slot machine
2 Variable display device
91 Setting switch
92 Setting key switch
94 Main switch
101 Game control board
112 RAM
102 Production control board

Claims (10)

By setting the number of bets for one game, it is possible to start the game, and the display result of the variable display device capable of variably displaying a plurality of types of identification information each identifiable is derived and displayed. In the slot machine where the game is over and a predetermined prize can be generated according to the display result of the variable display device,
Game control means for controlling the progress of the game and transmitting control information according to the progress of the game;
Effect control means for receiving control information transmitted from the game control means and controlling execution of an effect relating to at least the game based on the received control information, and including rewritable effect storage means; With
The game control means includes
A pre-determining means for pre-determining with a predetermined probability that the predetermined winning is permitted;
It is divided according to the importance of information to be stored as a specific area for storing information indicating the stage set for the payout rate calculated based on the predetermined probability and an area for storing information regarding the progress of the game. Game storage means including a special area and a general area;
A setting change means for changing a stage stored in the specific area by operating at least a setting change operation means for changing the stage in a setting change period in which a predetermined setting change permission condition is satisfied; ,
Stage display control means for causing the display means to display a stage before the change in which information is stored in the game storage means when the setting change period is started;
Initialization control information transmitting means for transmitting, to the effect control means, initialization control information for instructing initialization of storage information of the effect storage means when the setting change period starts;
Setting control information transmitting means for transmitting setting control information including information on the set stage after the change when the setting change period ends ;
An initialization means for initializing information stored in the general area of the areas included in the game storage means when changing the stage by the setting change means;
The effect control means initializes at least information related to the execution of the effect among the storage information of the effect storage means by receiving the initialization control information, and is set by receiving the setting control information The slot machine is characterized in that the storage information relating to the effect is stored in the effect storage means. The setting change period starts when a predetermined setting change start operation is performed,
The slot machine according to claim 1, wherein the initialization control information transmitting unit transmits the initialization control information when the setting change start operation is performed. The setting change period ends when a predetermined setting change end operation is performed,
The slot machine according to claim 1, wherein the setting control information transmitting unit transmits the setting control information when the setting change end operation is performed.   The game control means includes
  Special gaming state control means for controlling the gaming state to a special gaming state advantageous to the player when a predetermined special winning occurs;
  Special information storage means for storing, in the general area, special information indicating that the determination has been made when it is determined by the prior determination means that the occurrence of the special prize is permitted;
  Special information carry-over means for carrying over the special information stored in the predetermined area until the special prize is generated when no special prize is generated based on the special information stored in the predetermined area And further comprising
  The slot machine according to any one of claims 1 to 3. Wherein the initialization control information, in any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that said is shared with other control information to be transmitted to the presentation control means for progression of the game control unit game The described slot machine. When the game control means initializes all the information stored in the specific area, the special area, and the general area among the areas included in the game storage means, the game control means notifies the fact that the initialization has been performed. Further comprising initialization control information transmitting means for transmitting initialization notification control information for
The slot machine according to claim 5 , wherein the initialization control information is also used as the initialization notification control information. The game control means includes
An activation time information judging means for judging whether or not the information stored in the game storage means is normal when the slot machine is activated;
A return control means for returning to the state before power interruption by the data stored in the game storage means when it is determined normal by the startup information determination means;
Initialize all the information stored in the specific area, the special area, and the general area among the areas included in the game storage means when it is determined that the startup time information determination means is not normal All initialization means;
Initialization for notifying that the information has been initialized when all the information stored in the specific area, the special area, and the general area among the areas included in the game storage means is initialized. Initialization control information transmitting means for transmitting notification control information
The slot machine according to claim 5 or 6, wherein The said setting control information is combined with the other control information which the said game control means transmits to the said presentation control means for advancing of a game. The any one of Claim 1 thru | or 7 characterized by the above-mentioned. Slot machine. The game control means transmits game state notification control information to be transmitted for notifying a game state in each game,
The slot machine according to claim 8 , wherein the setting control information is also used as the gaming state notification control information.   The game control means includes
  Determination result information transmitting means for transmitting determination result information indicating the determination result of the prior determination means to the effect control means;
  Determination result information converting means for converting the determination result information transmitted to the effect control means into information indicating content different from the determination result of the prior determination means with a predetermined probability.
  The slot machine according to claim 1, wherein:

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