JP4267425B2 - Slot machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a slot machine, and in particular, a game that controls a maximum stop delay time from an instruction to stop changing display of identification information to an actual stop, and that a specific display result can be derived within the range of the maximum stop delay time. The present invention relates to a slot machine having a state.

  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 peripheral portion, and a winning is generated according to a display mode when rotation of each reel is stopped. Here, when a winning other than the replay occurs, medals corresponding to the type of the winning winning are paid out, and the number of medals obtained by the player is increased. Furthermore, depending on the type of winning, the game state is shifted to a game state advantageous to the player, such as a big bonus or a regular bonus, and the player can acquire many medals in such a game state.

  However, in order to win a prize in the slot machine, it is usually necessary to win the internal lottery performed before the display result is derived and displayed on the variable display device, and the winning flag needs to be set. Conversely, when the winning flag is set, the reel pull-in control is performed within a certain range according to the winning flag, and a winning can be generated. Therefore, the occurrence of winning is largely determined by the internal lottery rather than the skill of the player, and there is little room for the player to intervene in technology.

  In contrast, CT (Challenge Time), which allows change of the pull-in control range when the reels are stopped, while generating a winning combination for a small role that does not involve a transition of the gaming state, regardless of the result of the internal lottery. There was a slot machine having a gaming state called (see Patent Documents 1 to 3, for example). In CT, a player's skill greatly affects the occurrence of a prize, and the high level of technical intervention improves the interest of the game. It can be said that CT is an advantageous gaming state especially for highly skilled players.

  By the way, in addition to the big bonus and the regular bonus, when a gaming state advantageous to the player such as CT occurs, a difference in the number of medals that the player can acquire can improve the interest of the game. become able to. As a gaming state advantageous to such a player, there has been a slot machine having an RT (Replay Time) that improves the winning probability of replay (see, for example, Patent Document 4). There is also a slot machine having a gaming state called AR in which an AT (Assist Time) for notifying a gaming procedure for generating a prize is combined with RT (see, for example, Patent Document 5). Furthermore, there is a slot machine that has a gaming state advantageous to a plurality of types of players such as AT, RT, CT, and AR, and generates one of them by lottery (for example, see Patent Document 6).

JP-A-11-299964 JP-A-11-299965 JP-A-1-238888 JP 2002-360787 A JP 2002-11152 A JP 2002-172206 A

  However, all of the advantageous game states other than the above-mentioned big bonus and regular bonus have been considered to increase the number of medals that a player can obtain. In particular, in an AR in which AT and RT are combined, a player can acquire a large number of medals in a short period of time due to the synergistic effect. Also in CT, a skilled player can obtain a small role prize in most games, so that a large number of medals can be obtained in a short period of time. In this way, if an opportunity to acquire a lot of medals in a short period of time occurs, the shooting performance would be improved.

  Moreover, in the conventional slot machine, various advantageous game states other than the big bonus and the regular bonus are usually generated by the result of a lottery performed after the end of the big bonus. In other words, after an advantageous gaming state called a big bonus has ended, another advantageous gaming state may continue to occur, so that the gaming state advantageous to the player has continued for a long time, and the player is extremely Since there were cases where many medals could be obtained, it was extremely highly shooting.

  SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION An object of the present invention is to provide a slot machine capable of improving technical intervention and enhancing the interest of a game and suppressing the shooting ability.

To achieve the above object, the slot machine according to the present invention,
By setting a predetermined number of bets for one game, the game can be started, and the display result is displayed on a variable display device (variable display device 2) that variably displays a plurality of types of identification information each of which can be identified. In a slot machine in which one game is completed by deriving and displaying and a predetermined prize can be generated according to the display result of the variable display device,
Before the display result of the variable display device is derived and displayed, a plurality of types of specific display results (watermelon, bell, cherry, A prize display result including at least a group small part ) and a special display result (a display form of a CT prize) accompanied by a game value other than the valuable value (and may be accompanied by a valuable value). Pre-determining means (step S3: FIG. 7) for determining whether or not to allow, and setting determination information (winning flag) according to the determination result;
Stop operation means (stop buttons 12L, 12C, 12R) for instructing to stop the variation display of the identification information by the player's operation;
When the stop operation means is operated, a stop delay time from when an instruction to stop the variation display of the identification information is made based on a determination result by the prior determination means until the stop is made, and for each gaming state Derivation control means (steps S303, S305, S306, S307) for deriving a display result by stopping the variable display of the identification information in the variable display device within a predetermined maximum stop delay time range;
Derivation of the special display result by the pre-determining means from a normal gaming state (normal gaming state) in which a display result can be derived within a predetermined first maximum stop delay time (190 ms) Special decision information (CT winning flag) indicating that the game is permitted, and when the special display result is derived based on the special decision information, the gaming state is different from the normal gaming state, Regardless of whether or not it is determined by the predetermining means that the derivation of the specific display result is permitted within the range of the second maximum stop delay time (75 ms) shorter than the maximum stop delay time of 1. A game state control means (step) for controlling the game state into a special game state (CT) consisting of a plurality of special games that can be used to derive a specific display result (steps S303 and S305). And S405),
Special gaming state ending means (step S506) for ending the special gaming state when a predetermined ending condition (the number of paid-out medals reaches a predetermined number) is satisfied;
When the special display result is not derived based on the special decision information set by the pre-determining means, the special decision information carry-over means for carrying over the set special decision information after the next game (step S509, S406)
Deriving a re-game winning display result (replay) with a re-game grant that allows a game to be played without using the valuable value that can be used to set the bet amount when controlled to the special gaming state Re-game probability changing means (FIG. 5) for making the decision probability that is allowed to be higher than before being controlled to the special game state ;
Derivable information generating means (CPU 111) for generating derivable information (winning status signal) according to the determination result of the prior determination means ;
The derivable information generation means is mounted, and the information generated by the derivable information generation means is converted into a signal and output, and external connection means (external output terminal 150b) for outputting the signal to an external device can be connected. A board (game control board 101) on which a signal transmission path is formed ,
The derivable information generating means is an amount to which valuable value is given regardless of whether or not it is determined to allow the derivation of the specific display result by the predetermining means under the control of the special gaming state. To generate derivable information that can be recognized by the external device when
It is characterized by that.

  In the above slot machine, when controlled to the special gaming state, it is specified by the player operating the stop operation means within the range of the second maximum stop delay time regardless of the setting of the specific determination information in each game. Since the display result can be derived, the technical intervention of the player is improved and the interest of the game can be improved. Moreover, in order to activate such a special gaming state, not only the setting of special decision information by the determination of the pre-determining means, but also a special decision result must be derived. Technical intervention works and can improve the interest of the game.

Further, when in the special game state, there is a high probability that derivation of the replay winning display result is permitted, and the occurrence frequency of the replay winning is increased. The occurrence of the re-game winning does not affect the amount of valuable value given to the player, but this can suppress the expected value of the amount of valuable value given to the player per game, It becomes possible to suppress the shooting characteristics. In addition, the special gaming state is generated when a special determination result is derived and displayed based on the special determination information, and is not generated in association with another advantageous gaming state. For this reason, the gaming state advantageous to the player does not continue excessively, and the shooting property can be suppressed.
Further, even when the special determination information is set and the special display result cannot be derived, the special determination information can be carried over after the next game. For this reason, it can prevent that a player receives a disadvantage with respect to control to a special game state.
Furthermore, by connecting external connection means to the signal transmission line and outputting the derivatable information to the outside, for example, the derivatable information is output from the external connection means to the test apparatus, and the derivatable information is obtained in the test apparatus. A simulation test based on this can be performed. When the special gaming state is controlled, the specific display result can be derived and displayed regardless of whether or not it is determined by the predetermining means to permit the derivation of the specific display result. Since it is possible to recognize the case where the amount to which the valuable value is given becomes the largest from this derivable information, it is possible to simulate the case where the amount to which the valuable value is given in the external device becomes the largest.

  It should be noted that the determination probability that allows the re-game winning display result to be derived when the re-game probability changing means is controlled to the special game state is increased within a range not to be 100%. Further, the pre-determining unit may not set determination information for permitting derivation of display results other than the re-game winning display result when the special game state is controlled. Regardless of the setting of such determination information, the specific display result can be derived in the special gaming state.

In the above slot machine,
It is preferable that the predetermined termination condition is that the amount of valuable value given to the player in the special gaming state is equal to or greater than a predetermined amount.

  By setting the termination condition for the special game state in this way, even if the probability of allowing the derivation of the re-game winning decision result is increased and the occurrence frequency of the re-game winning is increased, the game will be completed by the end of the special gaming state. The amount of valuable value given to the player does not change, and the player is not disadvantaged.

In the above slot machine,
The derivable information generation means derives a winning display result (replay winning display mode) corresponding to the set decision information when the decision information (replay winning flag) is set by the prior decision means. Derivable information indicating that it is possible can be generated.

  In this case, even when the special gaming state is controlled, derivable information is generated so that the winning display result corresponding to the actually set decision information can be derived. Even when only the winning display result other than the specific display result can be derived, between the maximum amount to which the valuable value simulated from the derivable information is given and the maximum amount to which the actual valuable value is assigned There will be no discrepancy.

In the above slot machine,
The pre-determining means may permit derivation of only a winning display result (regular bonus, replay) other than the special display result when the special gaming state is controlled.

Furthermore, the game state control means is different from the special display result by the predetermining means, and a second special display accompanied by a game value other than a valuable value different from the game value given by the special display result. Second special decision information (big bonus winning flag) indicating that the derivation of the result (the display mode of the big bonus winnings) is permitted is set, and the second special display result is set based on the second special decision information. When the gaming state is controlled to a second special gaming state (big bonus) different from the special gaming state when
The pre-determining means permits derivation of only a winning display result (regular bonus, replay) other than the special display result and the second special display result when being controlled in the special gaming state. can do.

  When the special gaming state is controlled in this way, the special determination information (and the second special determination information) are not allowed to be derived from the special display result (and the second special display result) as the winning display result. ), Or based on the winning display result derived and displayed based on this, the already controlled special gaming state does not end. Therefore, the game in the special game state can be surely digested until the end condition defined for the special game state is satisfied.

  Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

  FIG. 1 is a front view showing the overall structure of the slot machine according to this embodiment. The front door of the slot machine 1 can be opened by inserting a key into the locking device 19 and rotating it clockwise. 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 (see FIG. 3), respectively.

  As shown in FIG. 2, “red 7”, “blue 7”, “BAR”, “JAC”, “watermelon”, “cherry”, “bell”, etc. are provided on the outer periphery of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R. A plurality of types of symbols that can be distinguished from each other are drawn in a predetermined order. In particular, in the reel 3L, “red 7”, “blue 7”, and “BAR” are arranged one by one at equal intervals. The reels 3C and 3R are arranged so as to be surely able to be drawn on the effective line by pull-in control of four frames described later.

  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. In the reel unit 3, reel sensors 3SL, 3SC, and 3SR (see FIG. 3) for detecting the reference positions of the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R, and a reel lamp 3LP that irradiates light from the back surface. And are provided.

  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 configured by a game number display 51 (see FIG. 3) using a 7-segment display, and displays the value of a counter that counts the number of games and the number of winnings when a big bonus or a regular bonus described later. The game number display unit 21 may be used to display a value of a counter that counts the number of medals paid out at the time of a big bonus or CT described later.

  The credit display unit 22 is constituted by a credit display 52 (see FIG. 3) using 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 (see FIG. 3), and displays the number of medals to be paid out when winning is achieved.

  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. One piece, two pieces, and three pieces bet display sections 24 to 28 correspond to lines activated according to the number of bets (1, 2, or 3) (hereinafter referred to as valid lines), respectively. When the three betting lamps 54 to 58 (see FIG. 3) are turned on, the active 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.

  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 by turning on the insertion instruction lamp 59 (see FIG. 3). The start display unit 30 indicates that the start lamp 60 (see FIG. 3) 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 (see FIG. 3) is turned on. The replay display unit 32 indicates that a replay winning that will be described later has been made when the replay lamp 62 (see FIG. 3) is turned on. The game over display unit 33 indicates that the slot machine 1 has been stopped by turning on the game over lamp 63 (see FIG. 3).

  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. As an effect by the image displayed on the liquid crystal display 4, there is, for example, a bonus notice (notification) effect informing that a bonus winning flag described later is set. Further, the liquid crystal display 4 can display various information directly or indirectly related to the game.

  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. 3), 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.

  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. 3) or the MAXBET switch 46 (see FIG. 3), the bet number from the credit is set. The settlement button 16 is a button for instructing to pay out credits. When an operation is detected by the settlement switch 47 (see FIG. 3), medals corresponding to the credits accumulated as data are paid out.

  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. 3), the reel drive motors 3ML, 3MC, 3MR are started to be driven. 3L, 3C, and 3R start to rotate.

  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. 3). Is detected, the rotation of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R is stopped. The fact that the operation of the stop buttons 12L, 12C, 12R is possible is indicated to the player by turning on the operation effective lamps 63L, 63C, 63R (see FIG. 3) provided therein.

  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 the bonus winning described later is possible when the bonus notification lamp 66 (see FIG. 3) is turned on. 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.

  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 (see FIG. 3) to the outside. 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. 3) installed therein.

  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. The speakers 7U, 7L, and 7R output sound effects at the time of winning and bonus entry, output of alarm sound at the time of abnormality, and output of sound for various effects according to the gaming state.

  Further, on the front side of the slot machine 1, an effect by light is performed by light emission of game effect lamps 75 </ b> A to 75 </ b> M (see FIG. 3) as effect means so as to surround the variable display device 2 and the liquid crystal display 4. Game effect display sections 5A to 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.

  FIG. 3 is a diagram showing the configuration of the control circuit of the slot machine 1. As shown in the figure, the control circuit of the slot machine 1 is roughly divided into a power supply board 100, a game control board 101, an effect control board 102, a reel relay board 103, a reel lamp relay board 104, and an external output board 105. .

  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. 3, only the game control board 101, the hopper 80, and the switches 91 to 94 are connected. However, the power supply board 101 also supplies power to other units. The power supply board 100 is provided in the slot machine 1 and is connected to a hopper 80 that includes a hopper motor 82 that performs a medal payout operation and a payout sensor 81 that detects a medal payout operation.

  The power supply board 100 sets a winning probability for an internal lottery to be described later, and a setting switch 91 and a setting switch 91 for changing setting values (setting 1 to setting 6) of medal payout rates calculated based on the probability. Are connected to a setting key switch 92 for enabling the operation, a second reset switch 93 for resetting the internal state (RAM 112), and a main switch 94 for switching the power ON / OFF, and detection of these switches. A signal is sent to the game control board 101. These switches 91 to 94 are provided inside the slot machine 1.

  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. A random number generation circuit 115, a sampling circuit 116, and other circuits are mounted.

  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. 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.

  The random number generation circuit 115 is constituted by a counter that counts up and updates the value every time the system clock generates a predetermined number of pulses, for example, and the sampling circuit 116 acquires the numerical value counted by the random number generation circuit 115. . The random number generation circuit 115 is provided for each type of random number used for the progress of the game, and a range of numerical values to be counted for each type of random number is determined. The CPU 111 sends an instruction to the sampling circuit 116 according to the processing to acquire the numerical value indicated by the random number generation circuit 115 as a random number (hereinafter, this function is referred to as a hardware random number function).

  The CPU 111 also has a function of updating the numerical value of the specific address in the RAM 112 by timer interrupt processing and acquiring the updated numerical value as a random number (hereinafter, this function is referred to as a software random number function). The CPU 111 transmits various commands to the effect control board 102 via the I / O port 114 and outputs various signals to the external output board 105 via the reel relay board 103. Information (command, signal) is sent from the game control board 101 to the effect control board 102 and the external output board 105 in only one direction, and information (command, signal) is sent from the effect control board 102 and the external output board 105 to the game control board 101. Signal) is not sent.

  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.

  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.

  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, and 3ML via the reel relay board 103, and stops the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R.

  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 obtains the value counted by the random number generation circuit 125 by the sampling circuit 126, so that the hardware random number function similar to that of the game control board 101 is obtained. Is forming. It also has a software random number function by interrupt processing.

  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.

  The effect control board 102 is connected with game effect lamps 75A to 75M, a liquid crystal display 4, speakers 7L, 7R, and 7U, a fluorescent lamp 6, a weight lamp 61, and a bonus notification lamp 66. 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.

  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 full tank sensor 90 is provided inside the slot machine 1 and detects that the medals in the overflow tank storing the medals overflowed from the hopper 80 are full. The reel lamp relay board 104 relays between the effect control board 102 and the reel unit 3.

  The external output board 105 outputs various signals input via the game control board 103 to an external device such as a test device or a hall management computer. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing the configuration of the external output board 105 in detail. The external output board 105 is composed of a main part 105a and a sub-part 105b that can be cut off and removed. The main part 105a and the sub part 105b are provided with external output terminals 150a and 150b, respectively. By connecting an external device to the external output terminals 150a and 150b, various signals can be output to the external device.

  Signals input from the game control board 101 via the reel relay board 103 and output to the outside of the external output board 105 include a regular bonus medium signal, a big bonus medium signal, a CT signal, and an SCT (single CT) signal. , Reel control signal, stop switch signal, medal IN signal, medal OUT signal, and winning status signal. Among these, only the transmission path (wiring) of the winning status signal is connected to the external output terminal 150b of the sub part 105b, and the other signal transmission path (wiring) is connected to the external output terminal 150a of the main part 105a. ing.

  At the time of the test before being put on the market, the external output board 105 is used without breaking the sub-portion 105b, and the regular bonus medium signal, the big bonus medium signal, the CT signal, the SCT signal, the reel control signal, the stop switch The signal, the medal IN signal, the medal OUT signal, and the winning status signal can be output from the respective transmission lines to the test apparatus via the external output terminals 150a and 150b.

  However, at the time of market entry, the sub-part 105b is broken, and the transmission path of the winning status signal is not connected to the external output terminal 150b. That is, a regular bonus signal, a big bonus signal, a CT signal, an SCT signal, a reel control signal, a stop switch signal, a medal IN signal, and a medal, whose transmission path is connected to the external output terminal 150a of the main unit 105a. Only the OUT signal can be output to the hall management computer.

  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. In order to win a prize, it is necessary to win an internal lottery and to set the internal winning flag of the combination. Also, medals are paid out in accordance with winning, and the gaming state is changed. FIG. 5 is a table showing the types of winning combinations determined in this slot machine 1 and the winning probabilities in the respective internal lotteries.

  In the normal gaming state or CT, when 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 a regular bonus. The regular bonus is a game called a regular bonus game (JAC game) that is performed a predetermined number of times (for example, 12 times) or a predetermined number of times (for example, 8 times) ("JAC" is displayed on the active line). Complete: JAC prize). The RAM 112 of the game control board 101 is provided with a counter for counting the number of regular bonus games and the number of winnings. When shifting to the regular bonus, the regular bonus flag is set in the RAM 112.

  In the normal gaming state, when three “red 7” s are arranged on the active line corresponding to the number of bets, a big bonus is won and the gaming state shifts to the big bonus. In the big bonus, up to 30 games called small role games can be played. In this small role game, “JAC” is arranged on the active line with a relatively high probability (JACIN winning), and when the JACIN winning is achieved, the above-mentioned regular bonus (JAC game) is provided (up to twice). The big bonus ends when the 30 small role games end or when the regular bonus based on the second JACIN ends. The process also ends when the number of medals paid out in the big bonus reaches 360.

  The RAM 112 of the game control board 101 is provided with a counter that counts the number of small-games, the number of JACIN, the number of regular bonus games and the number of winnings, and the number of medals paid out during the big bonus. When shifting to the big bonus, a big bonus medium flag is set in the RAM 112. When a JAC game is provided by JACIN, a regular bonus medium flag is also set.

  In the normal gaming state, when three “blue 7” s are arranged on the active line corresponding to the number of bets, a CT win is made and the gaming state shifts to CT. In CT, the pull-in control of four frames is not performed for the first reel (first reel) among the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R, and 75 milliseconds from the timing when the corresponding stop buttons 12L, 12C, and 12R are operated. Within one frame (within one frame). CT ends when a regular bonus is won in the internal lottery. Also, the process ends when the number of medals paid out in CT reaches 253. The RAM 112 of the game control board 101 is provided with a counter that counts the number of medals paid out during CT. When shifting to CT, a flag during CT is set in the RAM 112.

  In the normal gaming state, when the combination of “red 7-blue 7-blue 7” is aligned on the active line according to the number of bets, a single CT (hereinafter referred to as SCT) prize is won, and the gaming state shifts to SCT. To do. Also in SCT, the pull-in control of 4 frames is not performed for the first reel, and the frame is stopped within 75 milliseconds (within 1 frame) from the timing when the corresponding stop button 12L, 12C, 12R is operated. When shifting to the SCT, the SCT flag is set in the RAM 112. However, the SCT is completed in only one game, and the SCT flag is deleted.

  In games other than the regular bonus game or JAC game, when “watermelon” or “bell” appears on the active line, or “cherry” appears on the left reel 3L, the watermelon, bell, and cherry Small role winning. When “Red 7 or Blue 7 or BAR-JAC-JAC” is aligned on the active line, a group small prize is awarded. These small roles are specific winnings that can be generated regardless of the setting status of the winning flag during CT and SCT.

  If “JAC” is available on the active line, except for the small role game, JAC game, regular bonus game, and SCT game provided during the big bonus period, a replay prize will be awarded. When other display modes are derived and displayed on the variable display device 2, no winning combination has been won, that is, the game is lost.

  In this embodiment, “small role” includes not only a watermelon, bell, cherry small role and group small role, but also a replay or the like (replay, JAC and JACIN) in the case specifically described. There shall be. A simple “bonus” includes a big bonus, a regular bonus, and a CT unless otherwise specified. In addition, in the case of “bonus”, it is assumed that SCT may be included in the case described in particular. The same applies not only to the type of combination but also to the case of winning or winning flags.

  When there is a winning combination as described above, the number of medals corresponding to each winning combination is paid out (except for the case where the winning combination is 50 until the number of credits reaches 50). A corresponding number of credits are accumulated as data, and in this case as well, medals are paid out as valuable value). In addition, the number of medals to be paid out is 15 in all cases, except that there are 8 bell small roles and 2 cherry small roles. In the case of a replay winning, the same number of bets as the current game can be automatically set and the game can be started as it is, even if the player does not set the number of bets from the current medal or credit in the next game. Become.

  Next, the internal lottery will be described. In the internal lottery, whether or not a winning for each combination described later is permitted is determined before the display result is derived and displayed on the variable display device 2 (actually, when the start lever 11 is operated). Refer to the winning determination table prepared in the ROM 113 based on the random number for internal lottery acquired using the hardware random number function, the setting by the setting switch 91, the bet number set by the player, and the current gaming state This is what the CPU 111 performs. Winning in the internal lottery is exclusive, and a plurality of winnings are not won simultaneously in one game.

  Since different winning determination tables for the internal lottery are prepared for each set value, the winning probabilities for each combination in the internal lottery vary depending on the set value. As an example, FIG. In addition, since different winning determination tables are prepared depending on the gaming state, as shown in FIG. 5, the winning probability of each combination in the internal lottery varies depending on the gaming state.

  Here, the probability of winning for replay when the gaming state is in CT is higher than in the normal gaming state. In CT, only the number of medals paid out to the player is an end condition. However, even if a replay is won, no medals are paid out to the player, so this does not reduce the number of medals earned by the player. . However, since replay winnings frequently occur, the number of games until the CT is finished increases, and the increase in the number of medals obtained by the player becomes moderate.

  In addition, when the gaming state is CT and SCT, any of watermelon, bell, cherry and group small combination can be won, but lottery is not performed for these small combinations (the winning combination is determined by internal lottery). There is nothing.) However, when in CT and SCT, except when the replay winning flag is set in CT and the replay winning flag is set (the regular bonus winning in CT is no longer CT), the watermelon winning flag is set in the RAM 112. It becomes.

  Winning of watermelon, bell, cherry, and group small part in CT and SCT is possible based on this watermelon winning flag. However, even if the normal game state and the big bonus are set, even if the watermelon winning flag is set in the RAM 112, only the watermelon can be won based on this. The same 15-piece group small combination winning flag may be set in the RAM 112 instead of the watermelon winning flag.

  The internal lottery is performed for each game, and the winning flag is set in the RAM 112 according to the result. However, the winning flag of the small role (including replay etc.) is won based on this. Regardless of whether or not it is played, it will be erased for each game. The same applies to the SCT winning flag. On the other hand, the bonus winning flag is carried over after the next game until a winning is generated based on this.

  When the bonus winning flag is already set by the internal lottery before the previous game, the bonus (including SCT) is not drawn, and multiple types of bonus winning flags (including the SCT winning flag) are set simultaneously. It will not be done. Even if the bonus winning flag has already been set, the small role (including replay) will be drawn, so when you win the small role (including replay), the bonus winning flag and small role winning flag (replay winning flag will be displayed). May be duplicated and set. When the bonus winning flag and the small role winning flag (including the replay winning flag) are set to overlap, the small winning flag is prioritized in the control of the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R described later. .

  Hereinafter, a gaming operation in the slot machine 1 according to this embodiment will be described. In the following description, the term “game” means, in a narrow sense, from the operation of the start lever 11 until the reels 3L, 3C, 3R are stopped. However, when a game is played, the number of bets before the operation of the start lever 11 is set, and medals are paid out and the game state is shifted after the reels 3L, 3C, 3R are stopped. Is also included in the “game” in a broad sense.

  FIG. 6 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 S1).

  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. A BET process for instructing the start is performed (step S2). However, if the player has won a replay in the previous game, the same number of bets as 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.

  When the bet number is set by the BET process and the start lever 11 is operated, an internal lottery is performed to determine whether or not the winning of each winning combination is allowed according to the set value, the bet number and the gaming state, A lottery process for setting a winning flag according to the result is performed (step S3). In this lottery process, when the gaming state is CT or SCT, a watermelon winning flag is set regardless of the lottery result, and when a regular bonus is won during CT, the CT is also terminated. Details of the lottery process will be described later.

  When the lottery process ends, a reel fluctuation start process is performed (step S4). 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. Here, when a predetermined time has not elapsed since the start of rotation in the previous game, the rotation is awaited for rotation, and the weight display unit 31 is notified by lighting the weight lamp 61. Also, the timing of one game timer for the next game is started.

  Thereafter, reel fluctuation stop processing is performed (step S5). 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. At this time, pull-in control is performed within a range of 4 frames or less according to the winning flag, but pull-in control is not performed for the first reel during CT or SCT. Further, when the elapsed time after the predetermined condition is satisfied reaches a predetermined time (for example, 30 seconds), the driving of the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R is forcibly stopped. Details of the reel fluctuation stop process will be described later.

  When the driving of each of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R is stopped, in the display mode at the time of stopping, is any of the above-mentioned role symbols derived and displayed on the active line corresponding to the bet number set in the BET process in step S2 A winning determination process for determining whether or not is performed (step S6). If it is determined in this winning determination process that a winning combination has been won, various processes corresponding to the winnings generated on the game control board 101 are performed. Also, a winning information command indicating the presence / absence of a winning and the type of winning is transmitted to the effect control board 102. Details of the winning determination process will be described later.

When the winning determination process ends, a payout process is performed (step S7). In the payout process increases the credit only payout schedule number of medals was 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. Various settings not related to winning are also made. Details of the payout process will be described later. Then, the process for one game ends, and the process for the next one game starts.

  Next, the lottery process in step S3 will be described in detail. FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing in detail the lottery process executed by the CPU 111 in step S3. First, it is determined whether or not the gaming state in the game is in the SCT based on whether or not the SCT flag is set in the RAM 112 (step S101). If it is in SCT, a watermelon winning flag is set in the RAM 112 without performing internal lottery (step S102). Then, the lottery process is terminated, and the process returns to the flowchart of FIG.

  If not in the SCT, a random number for internal lottery is extracted using the hardware random number function, and the extracted random number value is temporarily stored in the RAM 112 (step S103). Further, the random number value temporarily stored in the RAM 112 is changed to the probability setting by the setting switch 91, the bet number set by the BET process in step S2, and the current gaming state (normal, regular bonus, big bonus, regular bonus and CT). The corresponding winning determination table is compared (step S104).

  Next, it is determined whether or not the current gaming state is in CT based on whether or not the CT flag is set in the RAM 112 (step S105). If not in CT, it is determined whether or not any kind of small role (including replay etc.) has been won as a result of comparing the random number value with the winning determination table (step S106). If any kind of small combination (including replay and the like) has been won, the winning flag of the selected small combination (including replay and the like) is set in the RAM 112 (step S107). Then, the lottery process is terminated, and the process returns to the flowchart of FIG.

  If any type of small role (including replay etc.) has not been won, whether or not the bonus winning flag has already been set in the RAM 112 in the previous game and has been carried over without a bonus winning Is determined (step S108). If the bonus winning flag is not set, it is determined whether or not any type of bonus (including SCT) has been won as a result of comparing the random number value with the winning determination table (step S109).

  If any type of bonus (including SCT) has been won, a winning flag for the winning bonus (including SCT) is set in the RAM 112 (step S110). Then, the lottery process is terminated, and the process returns to the flowchart of FIG. If the bonus winning flag has already been set in the previous game, or if the bonus has not been won, the lottery process is terminated and the process returns to the flowchart of FIG.

  If the current gaming state is in CT, it is determined whether or not the regular bonus is won as a result of comparing the random number value with the winning determination table (step S111). If the regular bonus has been won, a regular bonus winning flag is set in the RAM 112 (step S112). Further, the CT flag set in the RAM 112 is erased (step S113). Then, the lottery process is terminated, and the process returns to the flowchart of FIG.

  If the regular bonus is not won, it is determined whether or not the replay is won as a result of comparing the random number value with the winning determination table (step S114). If the replay is won, a replay winning flag is set in the RAM 112 (step S115). Then, the lottery process is terminated, and the process returns to the flowchart of FIG. If the replay has not been won, a watermelon winning flag is set in the RAM 112 (step S116). Then, the lottery process is terminated, and the process returns to the flowchart of FIG.

  Next, the reel fluctuation stop process in step S5 will be described in detail. FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing in detail the reel fluctuation stop process executed by the CPU 111 in step S5. First, after the rotation of the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R reaches a constant speed, there is a predetermined condition that enables the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R to stop the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R to detect the reference position after all. It is determined whether or not it is established (step S201).

  If this predetermined condition is not satisfied, the process of step S201 is repeated, and the process waits for the predetermined condition to be satisfied. If this predetermined condition is met (has been met), the reel timer for forcibly stopping the rotation of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R is started (step S202). Further, the left, middle, and right stop buttons 12L, 12C, and 12R are enabled to operate, and the respective operation enable lamps 63L, 63C, and 63R are turned on (step S203). Then, the process proceeds to step S204.

  In step S204, it is determined whether the left stop button 12L is operated based on the detection signal of the stop switch 42L. If it is determined that the left stop button 12L has not been operated, the process directly proceeds to step S207. If it is determined that the left stop button 12L is being operated, the left stop button 12L is disabled, and the operation enable lamp 63L is turned off (step S205). Further, a reel stop control process, which will be described later, is performed with the left reel 3L as a stop target reel, and the rotation of the left reel 3L is stopped (step S206). Then, the process proceeds to step S207.

  In step S207, based on the detection signal of the stop switch 42C, it is determined whether or not the middle stop button 12C is operated. If it is determined that the middle stop button 12C has not been operated, the process directly proceeds to step S210. If it is determined that the middle stop button 12C is operated, the middle stop button 12C is disabled, and the operation valid lamp 63C is turned off (step S208). Further, a reel stop control process, which will be described later, is performed using the middle reel 3C as a stop target reel, and the rotation of the middle reel 3C is stopped (step S209). Then, the process proceeds to step S210.

  In step S210, it is determined whether the right stop button 12R is operated based on the detection signal of the stop switch 42R. If it is determined that the right stop button 12R has not been operated, the process proceeds directly to step S213. If it is determined that the right stop button 12R has been operated, the right stop button 12R is disabled and the operation enable lamp 63R is turned off (step S211). Further, a reel stop control process, which will be described later, is performed with the right reel 3R as a stop target reel, and the rotation of the right reel 3R is stopped (step S212). Then, the process proceeds to step S213.

  In step S213, it is determined whether all the left, middle, and right reels 3L, 3C, 3R are stopped. When all the reels 3L, 3C, 3R are stopped, the reel fluctuation stop processing is ended and the process returns to the flowchart of FIG. On the other hand, if any one of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R has not stopped, it is determined whether or not the reel stop timer that started timing in the reel variation start process has counted a predetermined time (for example, 30 seconds). Determination is made (step S214). If the reel stop timer has not timed the predetermined time, the process returns to step S204, and the processes of steps S204 to S214 are repeated.

  When the reel stop timer measures a predetermined time, the CPU 111 is caused to input the same signal as the signal from the stop switches 42L, 42C, 42R corresponding to the reels 3L, 3C, 3R that have not stopped rotating. Assume that all the remaining stop buttons 12L, 12C, and 12R are operated (step S215). Then, the process returns to step S204, and the rotation of the remaining reels 3L, 3C, 3R is stopped.

  Next, the reel stop control process in steps S206, S209, and S212 will be described in detail. FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing in detail the reel stop control process performed by the CPU 111 in steps S206, S209, and S212. First, it is determined whether or not the current gaming state is CT or SCT depending on whether or not the CT flag or SCT flag is set in the RAM 112 (step S301).

  If the current gaming state is CT or SCT, it is determined whether the reel to be stopped is the first reel to be stopped, that is, the first reel (step S302). If it is the first reel, the rotation of the reel to be stopped is stopped within 75 ms (within one frame) after the corresponding stop button 12L, 12C, 12R is operated (step S303). Then, the reel stop control process ends, and the process returns to the flowchart of FIG.

  If the reel to be stopped is not the first reel, it is determined whether or not the replay winning flag is set in the RAM 112 (step S304). If the replay winning flag is not set (in the case of SCT, there is no internal lottery itself, so the replay winning flag is not always set), while giving priority to avoiding the replay display mode, In accordance with the symbols derived and displayed for the stopped reels, the pull-in control of the reels to be stopped is performed within 190 ms (within 4 frames) after the corresponding stop button 12L, 12C, 12R is operated, The rotation of the reel to be stopped is stopped (step S305).

  For example, when the left reel 3L is already stopped, the symbol is stopped on the active line when the display mode of the small role corresponding to the stopped symbol can be derived and displayed for the symbol to be stopped. For example, when “red 7”, “blue 7” or “BAR” is stopped for the left reel 3L, “JAC” is stopped on the effective line. When the “watermelon” or “bell” is stopped, these symbols are stopped if these symbols can be drawn on the active line. However, in any case, priority is given to avoiding that the display mode of the combination other than the small combination is derived and displayed. Then, the reel stop control process ends, and the process returns to the flowchart of FIG.

  When the replay winning flag is set, priority is given to the derivation of the replay display mode, and the corresponding stop buttons 12L, 12C, and 12R are operated so that the display modes other than the replay are not derived and displayed. Then, pull-in control of the reel to be stopped is performed within 190 ms (within 4 frames), and the rotation of the reel to be stopped is stopped (step S306).

  For example, if “JAC” is derived and displayed on the active line for the already stopped reel, the reel to be stopped is also stopped so that “JAC” is derived and displayed on the effective line. Of course, when the left reel 3L is a reel to be stopped, if “cherry” is derived and displayed, “JAC” is derived and displayed rather than being displayed on the active line. Priority is given to avoiding “cherry” being derived and displayed. Then, the reel stop control process ends, and the process returns to the flowchart of FIG.

  If the current gaming state is not CT or SCT, according to the setting status of the winning flag in the RAM 112, the reel to be stopped within 190 ms (within 4 frames) after the corresponding stop button 12L, 12C, 12R is operated. Pull-in control is performed to stop the rotation of the reel to be stopped (step S307). Then, the reel stop control process ends, and the process returns to the flowchart of FIG.

  Next, the winning determination process in step S6 will be described in detail. FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing in detail the winning determination process executed by the CPU 111 in step S6. First, it is determined whether or not the symbols that become the display mode of winning are arranged on the active line set according to the number of bets (step S401). If there are no symbols to be displayed as a winning display, the process proceeds to step S414.

  When the symbols for displaying the winning pattern are prepared, the display mode of the winning is the display mode of the bonus winning (including the SCT winning), and the corresponding bonus winning flag (including the SCT winning flag) is stored in the RAM 112. Judge whether it was not set. If the winning display mode is a bonus winning display mode in which the winning flag is not set, the process ends in error. The error processing at this time is not related to the present invention, and thus description thereof is omitted.

  If the winning display mode is not the bonus winning display mode in which the winning flag is not set, the one, two, or three betting lamps 54 to 58 corresponding to the active line on which the winning display mode is derived and displayed are displayed. A blinking display is made (step S403). Further, it is determined whether or not the winning display mode is any bonus display mode (step S404).

  In the case of any one of the bonus display modes, a bonus flag corresponding to the type of the bonus is set in the RAM 112 (step S405), and the bonus winning flag set in the RAM 112 is deleted (step S406). Further, a counter value for counting the number of games and winnings in the bonus provided in the RAM 112 is initialized (step S407), and a counter value for counting the number of payout medals in the bonus is initialized (step S407). Step S408). Then, the process proceeds to step S412.

  If the winning display mode is not the bonus display mode, it is determined whether or not the winning display mode is the SCT display mode (step S409). If the display mode is SCT, an SCT flag is set in the RAM 112 (step S410). Then, the process proceeds to step S412. If it is not an SCT display mode, it is determined whether or not it is a replay display mode (step S411). If it is not the replay display mode, it is the small role or JAC / JACIN display mode, and the process proceeds to step S412.

  In step S412, since a winning combination other than replay is won, the number of medals to be paid out according to the winning display mode (two cherries, eight bells, and 15 other medals) is paid out. The planned number is set in the RAM 112. Then, the process proceeds to step S414. If the winning display mode is the replay display mode, a replay flag is set in the RAM 112 (step S413). This replay flag is deleted when the bet number is automatically set in the next game. Then, the process proceeds to step S414.

  In step S 414, a winning information command indicating the presence / absence of winning and the type of winning combination is generated and transmitted to the effect control board 102. Then, the winning determination process is terminated, and the process returns to the flowchart of FIG.

  Next, the payout process in step S7 will be described in detail. FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing in detail the payout process executed by the CPU 111 in step S7. First, the number corresponding to the winning combination is determined by controlling the hopper 80 and discharging the medals one by one while subtracting the planned payout number by 1 until the planned payout number set in the RAM 112 becomes 0. Pay out the medal to the player. However, if the number of credits has not reached 50, the number of credits is incremented by 1 instead of discharging medals one by one (step S501).

  Next, it is determined whether or not the current gaming state is in bonus depending on whether a regular bonus flag, a big bonus flag or a CT flag is set in the RAM 112 (step S502). If the current gaming state is in bonus, the number of digested games since the gaming state was transferred to the bonus using various counters in the RAM 112 (in the case of a big bonus, the number of small role games and the regular bonuses in them) The number of games is counted separately (in regular bonuses, the number of wins is also counted). However, the number of games need not be counted during CT in which the number of games is not an end condition (step S503).

  Further, the counter of the RAM 112 is used to count the number of medals paid out to the player after the gaming state is shifted to the bonus. However, for a regular bonus in which the number of paid-out medals is not an end condition, the number of paid-out medals need not be counted (step S504).

  As a result of counting the number of games and the number of payout medals, it is determined whether or not a bonus (not including a regular bonus included in the big bonus) end condition has been met (step S505). If the bonus end condition is satisfied, the corresponding bonus flag in the RAM 112 is erased (step S506). Then, the process proceeds to step S509. If the bonus end condition is not met, the process proceeds to step S509.

  If the current gaming state is not in bonus in step S502, whether or not the gaming state in the game is in SCT is determined based on whether or not the SCT flag is set in the RAM 112 (step S507). If the game state in the game is SCT, the SCT flag set in the RAM 112 is erased (step S508). Then, the process proceeds to step S509. If the game state in the game is not SCT, the process proceeds to step S509 as it is.

  In step S509, if an SCT winning flag or a winning combination (including replay or the like) winning flag is set in the RAM 112, it is deleted. Other regular bonus winning flags, big bonus winning flags or CT winning flags are not erased but carried over to the next game. Then, the payout process is terminated, and the process returns to the flowchart of FIG. When returning to the flowchart of FIG. 6, the processing for one game is finished as it is.

  In addition, after the winning flag is set by the lottery process or after the SCT winning flag and the replay winning flag are deleted by the payout process, the CPU 111 performs a bonus notice (notification) effect based on the winning flag set in the RAM 112. It is possible to determine whether or not to perform the process, and to determine the mode, and to transmit a command indicating the determined effect to the effect control board 102. A command can be transmitted in the same manner for the lighting of the bonus notification lamp 66.

  In addition to the above-described processing, the CPU 111 of the game control board 101 performs various processes for generating various signals to be output from the external output board 105 and outputting them from the external output board 105 to the outside. Hereinafter, generation and output of various signals output from the external output board 105 will be described.

  When the insertion of a medal from the medal insertion slot 13 is detected by the medal insertion sensor 44, the CPU 111 generates a medal IN signal and outputs the signal to the external output board 105, which is input from the external output board 105 to the test apparatus or the management computer. Will be. When a medal is paid out in the payout process in step S7, a medal OUT signal is generated and output to the external output board 105, and input from the external output board 105 to the test apparatus or the management computer.

  When the stop button 12L, 12C, 12R is operated in the reel fluctuation stop process in step S5, and this operation is detected by the stop switches 42L, 42C, 42R, a stop switch signal is generated and output to the external output board 105, It is input from the external output board 105 to the test apparatus or the management computer. Further, when the rotation of the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R is stopped by this, or when the rotation of the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R is started in the reel fluctuation start process in step S4, a reel control signal is generated and the external output board 105 is generated. And input from the external output board 105 to the test apparatus or management computer.

  After the regular bonus flag, big bonus flag, CT flag, or SCT flag is set in the winning determination process in step S6, until these flags are cleared in the payout process in step S7, respectively. A regular bonus signal, a big bonus signal, a CT signal, and an SCT signal are generated and output to the external output board 105, and input from the external output board 105 to the test apparatus or the management computer.

  When the winning flag for each combination is set in the lottery process in step S3, a winning status signal indicating the setting status of the winning flag is generated and output to the external output board 105. This winning status signal can be output to a test apparatus connected to the external output terminal 150b because the sub-portion 105b of the external output board 105 is not removed during the test before being put on the market. On the other hand, since the sub-portion 105b is removed from the external output board 105 at the time of entering the market, even if only the external output terminal 150a in the main portion 105a is connected to the hall management computer, the winning status signal is sent to the management computer. Cannot output.

  In the repetition of the game as described above, the CPU 111 of the game control board 101 shifts the game state between the normal game state, the regular bonus, the big bonus, the CT, and the SCT, and according to the progress of the game. Various commands are transmitted to the effect control board 102. On the other hand, the CPU 121 of the effect control board 102 performs an effect based on the command received from the game control board 101. As such effects, there is an effect at the time of winning based on the prize information command in addition to the effect instructed to be directly executed by the command, but since these effects are not directly related to the present invention, the details The detailed explanation is omitted.

  As described above, in the slot machine 1 according to this embodiment, in the game when the gaming state is CT or SCT, the maximum operation from the operation of the stop buttons 12L, 12C, and 12R to the stop of rotation for the first reel. Although the delay time is shortened from 190 ms to 75 ms, any kind of small combination can be won as long as the replay winning flag is not set. In other words, since it becomes possible to generate a prize for a small role depending on the skill of the player regardless of the result of the internal lottery, the technical intervention is enhanced and the interest of the game can be improved.

  Here, the CT is an advantageous gaming state in which a small player win can be generated in most games unless the replay winning flag is set, especially for a skilled player. Game status will occur in addition to the regular bonus and the big bonus, and this also causes a difference in the number of medals that the player can acquire, which can improve the interest of the game. .

  In order to generate CT or SCT, a CT winning flag or an SCT winning flag is set in the RAM 112 in the internal lottery, and the display mode of CT or SCT is derived as a display result of the variable display device 2 based on the winning flag. It is supposed to be displayed. From the relationship with the arrangement of the symbols on the reels 3L, 3C, 3R, in order to generate winnings for these roles, a technique for pushing the stop buttons 12L, 12C, 12R is required. Accordingly, not only the game during CT or SCT but also the player's technical intervention is required for the generation of CT or SCT, so that the interest of the game can be improved.

  However, even if the player cannot generate a CT prize when the CT winning flag is set, the CT winning flag can be carried over after the next game. CT is an advantageous state that continues for a relatively long period over a plurality of games (at least 18 games unless a regular bonus is won) until the number of paid-out medals reaches 253. Is not completed with only one game, it is possible to prevent the player from being disadvantaged. On the other hand, the SCT winning flag is deleted if there is no SCT winning in the game, but only one game is given to the SCT itself, so even if there is no carryover of the SCT winning flag, there is a disadvantage received by the player. Don't get too big.

  Further, when the gaming state is CT, the replay winning probability is higher than that in the normal gaming state. Due to the relationship with the arrangement of symbols on the reels 3L, 3C, 3R, in the game in which the replay winning flag is set, a replay winning is almost generated. When a replay winning occurs, the number of games is consumed without increasing or decreasing the number of medals obtained by the player. By increasing the number of games during CT in this way, the number of medals that can be acquired by the player on an average of one game during CT can be suppressed, and the increase in the number of medals acquired by the player can be moderated. Because you can, you will be able to suppress the shooting characteristics.

  However, the CT end condition is that the number of payout medals in CT has reached 253, and the number of games is not a requirement. For this reason, even if replay winnings occur frequently, there is no difference in the total number of medals that can be obtained by the player before the CT is completed, so that the player is not disadvantaged.

  Even during CT, a regular bonus may be won, which is also a condition for ending CT. However, during the CT, the big bonus, CT, and SCT are not drawn, so if you turn it back, the CT will end without reaching 253 payout medals. It can be said that there is only a chance to win a regular bonus with only probability. That is, in many cases, the CT game can be digested until the number of paid-out medals reaches a specified number.

  By the way, the setting status of the winning flag set in the RAM 112 by the result of the internal lottery is output from the external output board 105 to the outside of the slot machine 1 by the winning status signal generated by the CPU 111. Here, when the gaming state is CT or SCT, the internal lottery is not performed for the small role, but the watermelon winning flag is set in the RAM 112 except when the regular bonus or replay is won. The winning status signal also indicates the setting of the watermelon winning flag. Since a watermelon pays the largest number of medals in a small role, by connecting a test device to the external output board 105 and monitoring a winning status signal, a paying medal is set based on the setting status of the winning flag. The case where the number of sheets is the largest can be simulated in the test apparatus.

  On the other hand, even when the player is in CT, if the replay is won in the internal lottery, the watermelon winning flag is not set, and the replay winning flag is set. If the regular bonus is won, the CT gaming state ends there, and the watermelon winning flag is not set. Even during CT, when the replay winning flag is set, the small role winning cannot be generated. In such a case, it is confirmed that only the replay winning flag is set as the winning status signal. Thus, there is no discrepancy between the maximum payout medal number simulated in the test apparatus and the actual maximum payout medal number.

  Here, the external output board 105 that outputs various signals including the winning status signal to the outside is configured to be divided into a main part 105a and a sub part 105b provided with external output terminals 150a and 150b, respectively. Since the main part 105a is not removed in the test before market entry or after market entry, various signals other than the winning status signal are also sent to the test apparatus from the external output terminal 150a provided here. You can also output to the management computer.

  On the other hand, the sub part 105b is not removed in the test before being put on the market, but is cut off from the main part 105a and removed when the part is put on the market. Therefore, the test apparatus can be connected to the external output terminal 150b that should be mounted on the sub-part 105b, but the management computer cannot be connected. As a result, it is possible to prevent fraud such that the winning status signal is directly input to the management computer or the like and analyzed. Furthermore, unauthorized modification such as connecting to a control board that is illegally configured to the external output terminal 150b and making it possible to produce an effect based on the setting status of the winning flag cannot be easily performed.

  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.

  In the above embodiment, the regular bonus end condition is the number of games and the number of wins, the CT end condition is the number of payout medals, and the big bonus end condition is the number of games and the number of wins and the number of payout medals. Had been applied. However, the termination conditions for these various bonuses are not limited to this. Various combinations of the number of games, the number of winnings, and the number of payout medals can be used as conditions for terminating various bonuses. In addition, the end conditions other than the number of games, the number of winnings, and the number of payout medals can also be explained for each bonus.

  In the above embodiment, during CT, a reel whose maximum stop delay time is changed from 190 ms to 75 ms from the operation of the stop buttons 12L, 12C, 12R to the actual stop of rotation is the first operated stop. The first reel corresponding to the button. On the other hand, the second reel or the third reel may be a reel whose maximum stop delay time is to be changed. The number of reels for which the maximum stop delay time is changed can be two or all three. Furthermore, instead of depending on the order of stopping, a specific one of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R may be set as a reel for which the maximum stop delay time is changed, such as the left reel 3L. .

  In the above embodiment, the lottery lottery is not performed during the CT, but a watermelon winning flag is set in the RAM 112 unless a regular bonus or replay is won. However, if a winning flag setting area is provided independently for each type of combination in the RAM 112, the winning flags for all small combinations are set in the RAM 112 unless a regular bonus or replay is won in a game during CT. It is good also as what to do. Based on the winning flag of each combination, any winning combination can be generated.

  Further, in the game during CT, it is possible that none of the small role winning flags is set regardless of the result of the internal lottery. Even if no winning combination winning flag is set, any winning combination of any winning combination can be generated based on the CT flag set in the RAM 112. Even in these cases, the CPU 111 can generate a winning status signal indicating that the watermelon winning flag is set and output it to the external output board 105 (provided that the replay winning flag is set). Except when configured).

  In the above embodiment, the replay winning probability during CT is always higher than the replay winning probability in the normal gaming state. On the other hand, it is good also as what can generate CT which made the replay winning probability the same as a normal game state. A plurality of types of CT having different replay winning probabilities may be generated by deriving and displaying different CT symbols. Alternatively, when CT is generated by CT symbol derivation display, a replay winning probability determination lottery may be performed and determined according to the lottery result. Furthermore, the replay winning probability during CT may be determined according to the medal payout rate until the time of CT occurrence. For example, when the payout rate is extremely low, the replay winning probability during CT may be made lower than the normal gaming state.

  In the above embodiment, the internal lottery of any role is not performed in the game when the game state is SCT, but the regular bonus and replay lottery are performed as in the game during CT. It may be. If the regular bonus is won in the lottery when the player is in the SCT, the player can obtain a larger profit by the occurrence of the regular bonus than the disadvantage caused by the end of the SCT. Even if it is impossible to win a small role due to winning the replay, the disadvantage to the player will not be so great.

  In the above embodiment, the external output board 105 is composed of the main part 105a and the sub part 105b, and the sub part 105b is removed when the product is put on the market so that the signal wiring of the winning status signal is not connected to the external output terminal 150b. As a result, the winning status signal was not output to the hall management computer. However, the configuration for preventing the winning status signal from being output to the external device at the time of market entry is not limited to this. For example, it is assumed that the CPU 111 of the game control 101 encrypts and outputs the winning situation signal, and provides a circuit for decrypting the encrypted winning situation signal on the external output board 105 only at the time of the test before entering the market. Also good.

FIG. 3 is a front view showing the overall structure of the slot machine according to the embodiment of the present invention. It is a figure which shows the arrangement | sequence of the symbol in each reel which comprises a variable display apparatus. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an overall configuration of a control circuit of the slot machine of FIG. 1. It is a figure which shows the structure of the external control board of FIG. 3 in detail. It is a figure which shows the internal winning probability of each combination in each game state. It is a flowchart which shows the process which the control part in a game control board performs for every game. It is a flowchart which shows the lottery process of FIG. 6 in detail. It is a flowchart which shows the reel fluctuation stop process of FIG. 6 in detail. It is a flowchart which shows the reel stop control process of FIG. 8 in detail. It is a flowchart which shows the winning determination process of FIG. 6 in detail. It is a flowchart which shows the payout process of FIG. 6 in detail.

Explanation of symbols

1 slot machine 2 variable display device 101 game control board 105 external output board

Claims (3)

A game can be started by setting a predetermined number of bets for one game, and a display result is derived and displayed on a variable display device that displays a plurality of types of identification information that can be identified. In a slot machine in which one game is completed and a predetermined prize can be generated according to the display result of the variable display device,
Before the display result of the variable display device is derived and displayed, a plurality of types of specific display results in which the amount of valuable value used for setting the bet amount is different at the time of derivation , and game values other than the valuable value A pre-determining unit that determines whether or not to allow a winning display result including at least a special display result with grant to be derived, and sets determination information according to the determination result;
A stop operation means for instructing to stop the variation display of the identification information by a player's operation;
When the stop operation means is operated, a stop delay time from when an instruction to stop the variation display of the identification information is made based on a determination result by the prior determination means until the stop is made, and for each gaming state Derivation control means for deriving a display result by stopping the variation display of the identification information in the variable display device within a range of a predetermined maximum stop delay time;
Special decision information indicating that the derivation of the special display result is allowed by the pre-determining means from a normal gaming state in which the display result can be derived within a predetermined first maximum stop delay time range Is set, and when the special display result is derived based on the special determination information, the game state is different from the normal game state, and the second maximum stop is shorter than the first maximum stop delay time. From a plurality of special games that can derive the specific display result regardless of whether or not the derivation of the specific display result is determined by the predetermining means within the range of the delay time. A gaming state control means for controlling the gaming state into a special gaming state,
Special gaming state ending means for ending the special gaming state when a predetermined ending condition is satisfied;
Special decision information carry-over means for carrying over the set special decision information after the next game when the special display result is not derived based on the special decision information set by the prior decision means;
Deriving a re-game winning display result accompanied by a re-game granting that allows a game to be played without using a valuable value that can be used for setting the bet amount when controlled to the special gaming state. Re-game probability changing means for making an allowable decision probability higher than that before being controlled to the special game state ;
Derivable information generating means for generating derivable information according to the determination result of the prior determination means;
The derivable information generating means is mounted, and the information generated by the derivable information generating means is converted into a signal and output, and a signal transmission path that enables connection of an external connecting means for outputting the signal to an external device is formed. With a substrate ,
The derivable information generating means is an amount to which valuable value is given regardless of whether or not it is determined to allow the derivation of the specific display result by the predetermining means under the control of the special gaming state. Generates derivable information that can be recognized by the external device when
A slot machine characterized by that. The slot machine according to claim 1, wherein the predetermined end condition is that the amount of valuable value given to the player in the special gaming state is equal to or greater than a predetermined amount. The derivable information generating unit generates derivable information indicating that a winning display result corresponding to the set determination information can be derived when the determination information is set by the prior determination unit. The slot machine according to claim 1 or 2 , characterized by the above-mentioned.

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