JP4728914B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine, a program, and an information storage medium.

  2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, a gaming machine (rotational gaming machine, slot machine) having a plurality of reels having symbols arranged on an outer peripheral surface is known. This type of gaming machine gives a certain game value to game media such as medals and pachinko balls, and performs a game for acquiring such game media. In addition, this type of gaming machine performs a lottery based on the player's operation, displays the game result based on the lottery result using a combination of symbols arranged on the reel, and determines the medal according to the game result. It has a function to pay out etc.

In addition, in gaming machines using this type of medal, many models have a credit function for crediting (internal storage) medals to a gaming machine up to a predetermined upper limit in consideration of the convenience of the player. ing. In the gaming machine having this credit function, the surplus medals excluding the number of medals required for one game are stored as credits when the player inserts medals in advance. Then, when the player operates the bet button (insertion operation means), the credited medal is set to the inserted state so that the game can be performed. In addition, in a gaming machine having a credit function, when the player wants to settle the credited medal when the player ends the game and leaves the seat, it is credited by operating the settlement button (settlement operation means). You will be able to receive a medal payment.
JP 2005-177448 A

  By the way, in a gaming machine having a credit function, a credit display composed of, for example, a 7-segment display is provided as a display interface for allowing the player to grasp the number of medals credited.

  However, in conventional gaming machines, the credit indicator is only used to display the number of credited medals, so the display operation of the credit indicator itself is of interest to the player during the game. It was not a matter.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and an object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine capable of attracting the player's interest by controlling the display operation of the credit indicator in an unconventional manner. It is to provide a program and an information storage medium.

  (1) The present invention relates to a lottery means for performing an internal lottery for determining whether or not a plurality of types of winning combinations are won using random numbers, a winning determination means for determining whether or not a winning combination is won in the internal lottery, The game media with the number of payouts corresponding to the winning combination is controlled to be creditable until a predetermined credit upper limit is reached, and the display value of the credit indicator is set according to the number of gaming media credited with the winning of the winning combination. A gaming machine comprising credit control means for performing updating control, wherein the credit control means updates the display value of the credit indicator in accordance with winning of a combination based on establishment of a predetermined condition. The present invention relates to a gaming machine that performs variable special control.

  According to the present invention, when special control is performed when a game medium is credited with winning a winning combination, the player is determined to satisfy a predetermined condition during the game due to a difference in speed at which the display value of the credit indicator is updated. Can be notified. Thus, according to the present invention, it becomes possible to attract the player's interest regarding the display operation of the credit indicator.

  (2) In the gaming machine of the present invention, the credit indicator is provided so as to update a display value in response to a display control signal output from the credit control means. In accordance with the number of game media credited in accordance with the winning of the winning combination, normal control is performed to output the display control signal to the credit indicator at predetermined intervals, and the credit indicator is based on the establishment of the predetermined condition. The special control may be performed by varying an output interval of the display control signal to be output.

  In this way, the display interval of the display control signal is changed during the special control, and the display of the credit indicator is updated when the game medium is credited for one winning combination. It becomes possible to freely change the period required for processing, such as prolonging or shortening the period. That is, according to this aspect, since the period required for the display update processing of the credit indicator performed for one winning combination is different between the normal control time and the special control time, as a result, the credit indicator The update speed of the display value can be varied.

  (3) In the gaming machine of the present invention, the credit indicator is provided so as to update a display value in response to a display control signal output from the credit control means. A normal control for outputting a display control signal for updating the display value in a predetermined update unit to the credit indicator according to the number of game media credited in accordance with the winning of the winning combination is performed, and the predetermined condition is satisfied. Based on this, the special control may be performed by changing the update unit of the display value specified by the display control signal output to the credit indicator.

  In this way, the display value update unit specified by the display control signal during special control is changed from that during normal control, so that the game medium is credited for a single winning combination. It is possible to freely change the period required for the display update processing of the credit indicator, such as making it longer or shorter. That is, according to this aspect, since the period required for the display update processing of the credit indicator performed for one winning combination is different between the normal control time and the special control time, as a result, the credit indicator The update speed of the display value can be varied.

  (4) Further, in the gaming machine of the present invention, the game state is shifted between a plurality of types of game states including a normal state and a special state in which the player is more advantageous than the normal state based on establishment of a predetermined transition condition. The game state transition control means for performing the control may be provided, and the payout control means may perform the special control based on the establishment of the transition condition to the special state.

  In this way, it is possible to notify that the transition condition of the special state that is highly interested for the player is satisfied by the difference in speed at which the display value of the credit indicator is updated.

  (5) Further, the present invention is a lottery means for performing an internal lottery to determine whether or not a plurality of types of winning combinations are determined using random numbers, a winning determination means for determining whether or not a winning combination is won in the internal lottery, The number of game media corresponding to the winning combination is controlled to be creditable until a predetermined credit limit is reached, and the display value of the credit indicator according to the number of gaming media credited for winning the winning combination Is a program that causes a computer of a gaming machine to function as credit control means for performing control to update the credit card, and the credit control means, based on the establishment of a predetermined condition, displays the display value of the credit indicator in accordance with winning of a combination. The present invention relates to a program for performing special control for changing the update speed.

  The present invention also relates to an information storage medium that is readable by a computer and stores a program that causes the computer to function as each of the means described above.

  In the program and the information storage medium according to the present invention, each aspect shown in the above (2) to (4) can be appropriately adopted, and the computer functions as the means shown in (2) to (4). May be.

  Hereinafter, this embodiment will be described. In addition, this embodiment demonstrated below does not unduly limit the content of this invention described in the claim. In addition, all the configurations described in the present embodiment are not necessarily essential configuration requirements of the present invention.

1. Configuration FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an external configuration of a gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention.

  The gaming machine according to the present embodiment is a so-called slot machine or spinning-type gaming machine, and is a type of gaming machine that performs games using medals as gaming media.

  In the gaming machine according to the present embodiment, a reel unit including a first reel R1 to a third reel R3 (a plurality of reels) is housed in a box-shaped casing including a storage box BX, a front upper door UD, and a front lower door DD. It has been. A hopper unit HP as a medal payout device is housed in the lower part of the reel unit in the housing. In addition, a CPU, a ROM (an example of an information storage medium), a RAM, and the like are mounted in the housing of the gaming machine of the present embodiment, and a control board (not shown) that controls the operation of the gaming machine is also housed.

  Each of the first reel R1 to the third reel R3 shown in FIG. 1 is divided into 21 regions (each region is referred to as “frame”) at regular intervals on the outer peripheral surface, and each frame has a plurality of types of symbols. One is arranged. Further, the first reel R1 to the third reel R3 are pivotally supported by a step motor (rotation drive means: not shown), and each of the first reel R1 to the third reel R3 is rotatably driven around the axis of the step motor. By controlling the width and the like, the frame can be stopped in units of frames (predetermined rotation angle units). That is, in the gaming machine of the present embodiment, when the step motor rotates and drives the first reel R1 to the third reel R3 in accordance with the drive pulse supplied from the control board, and the supply of the drive pulse from the control board is interrupted, As the rotation of the step motor stops, the first reel R1 to the third reel R3 stop.

  The front upper door UD and the front lower door DD are provided so as to be individually openable and closable, and the front upper door UD has a display window DW that allows observation of the rotation state and the stop state of the first reel R1 to the third reel R3. Is provided. In the stopped state of the first reel R1 to the third reel R3, three symbols (for three frames) of a plurality of types of symbols arranged at regular intervals on the outer peripheral surfaces of the first reel R1 to the third reel R3, respectively. Can be observed from the front of the gaming machine through the display window DW. In the stopped state of each reel R1 to R3, the symbols observed from the display window DW are stopped and displayed at any position on the five effective lines L1 to L5. The player's game result is judged by the combination of symbols stopped and displayed in the display window DW. If the combination of symbols on the active line is a combination corresponding to a predetermined combination, the combination is won. For example, medals are paid out from the hopper unit HP.

  The five activated lines L1 to L5 are determined according to the number of medals inserted (the number of bets). In the gaming machine of the present embodiment, it is possible to insert medals in the range of 1 to 3 for one game, and one medal is inserted into the medal slot MI provided in the front lower door DD. In this case, when one effective line L1 is activated and two medals are inserted into the medal insertion slot MI, three effective lines L1 to L3 are activated and three medals are inserted into the medal insertion slot MI. When it is input, all the five effective lines L1 to L5 are activated.

  The front upper door UD is provided with a game information display section DS. The game information display section DS is composed of an LED, a lamp, a 7-segment display, etc., and the number of medal credits (the number of medals stored internally), the number of medals paid out (or the number of medals) in one game, bonus games Various game information such as the remaining number of times is displayed.

  In particular, in this embodiment, a credit display CD comprising a 7-segment display is provided as the game information display section DS. In the gaming machine of the present embodiment, 50 medals awarded according to the medals inserted by the player and the game results are provided so as to be credited.

  In addition, the front upper door UD is provided with a liquid crystal display LCD for performing game effects. On the liquid crystal display LCD, various videos (or images) for assisting the game or for exciting the game are displayed. In the gaming machine according to the present embodiment, a plurality of speakers for performing a game effect are provided for the front upper door UD and the front lower door DD. From the speaker, various sounds for assisting the game or for exciting the game are output.

  The front lower door DD is provided with various operation means. As an operation means, a bet button B0 (an example of an insertion operation means) for performing an operation to put a credited (internally stored) medal into an inserted state, and the first reel R1 to the third reel R3 are rotated to start a game. A start lever SL (an example of a game start operation means) for performing an operation that is an opportunity to perform, and an operation that is an opportunity to stop each of the first reel R1 to the third reel R3 that is rotationally driven by a step motor. Stop buttons B1 to B3 (an example of stop operation means) are provided. The front lower door DD is also provided with a settlement button B4 (an example of a settlement operation means) for settlement of medals that have been credited (stored internally). For example, when the settlement button B4 is pressed in a state where medals that are credited (internally stored) are stored in the gaming machine, the number of credits (number of internally stored medals) from the hopper unit HP as the settlement button B4 is pressed. The settlement process is executed in which the number of medals corresponding to () is paid out. In the present embodiment, the settlement of the credit medal by pressing the settlement button B4 is referred to as normal settlement.

  In the gaming machine of the present embodiment, the player inserts a medal into the medal insertion slot MI, or presses the bet button B0 to insert a credit medal, thereby performing a predetermined game start condition. When the number of inserted coins (predetermined inserted number: for example, 3) is bet, the game is set in a state where the game can be started (game start preparation state). Thereafter, when the player depresses the start lever SL, the first reel R1 to the third reel R3 start to rotate by driving the step motor, and the rotation speed of the first reel R1 to the third reel R3 increases to a predetermined speed. On the condition that a predetermined waiting time (wait time) has elapsed, the pressing operation of the stop buttons B1 to B3 is permitted.

  Thereafter, when the player presses down the stop buttons B1 to B3 at an arbitrary timing, stop switches (stop signal output means: for example, a photo sensor, a continuity sensor, a pressure) built in each of the stop buttons B1 to B3 A sensor or the like) performs an ON operation, and changes a reel stop signal input to the control board from the OFF state to the ON state.

  When the player releases the stop buttons B1 to B3 that are in the pressed state at an arbitrary timing, the stop switch of each button is turned off, and the reel stop signal input to the control board is changed from the on state to the off state. .

  Then, the control board changes the first reel R1 to the third reel R3 based on the change from the OFF state to the ON state of the reel stop signal whose signal state changes according to the press timing and release timing of the stop buttons B1 to B3. Stop.

  In addition, a medal payout port MO and a medal tray MP are provided at the lower part of the front lower door DD, and the number of medals corresponding to the game result (stop state of the first reel R1 to the third reel R3) is hopper. The unit HP pays out the medal tray MP through the medal payout slot MO.

  When medal credits (internal storage) are permitted, medals corresponding to the number of payouts are credited up to the maximum number of credits (50 in this embodiment), and as the number of medal credits changes The display value of the credit indicator CD changes.

  Specifically, as shown in FIG. 2, the CPU 10 (credit control means) of the control board MB (game control means) updates the number of credits (credit data) stored in the RAM 20 (credit data storage means). The display control signal is output to the credit indicator CD. The credit display CD includes a segment driver 30 which is a circuit for driving a segment of a 7-segment display, and a 7-segment display 40 for displaying upper digits so as to display the number of credits of medals in a range of 0 to 50. It consists of a 7-segment display 50 for displaying lower digits. In the credit display CD, the segment driver 30 outputs a segment drive signal for driving each segment of the 7-segment display 40, 50 in response to the display control signal from the CPU 10 to output the 7-segment display 40, 50. The displayed value is changed.

  FIG. 3 is a functional block diagram of the gaming machine of the present embodiment.

  The gaming machine of this embodiment is controlled by the game control means 100. The game control means 100 receives input signals from the input means such as the medal insertion switch 210, the bet switch 220, the start switch 230, the stop switch 240, the settlement switch 250, and performs various calculations for executing the game. Based on the calculation result, operation control of output means such as the reel unit 310, the hopper unit (dispensing device) HP, the display device 330, the speaker 340, and the like is performed. The functions of the game control means 100 are realized by various processors (CPU, DSP, etc.), ASIC (gate array, etc.), ROM (an example of an information storage medium), or hardware such as RAM, or software comprising a given program. Is done.

  The game control means 100 includes a random number generation means 110, a lottery means 120, a reel control means 130, a winning determination means 140, a payout control means 150, a credit control means 155, a replay processing means 160, a game state transition control means 170, and an effect control. Means 180 and storage means 190 are included.

  The random number generation means 110 is a means for generating random numbers for lottery. The random value can be generated based on, for example, a count value of an increment counter (a counter that counts numerical values so as to circulate a predetermined count range). In this embodiment, the “random number value” is not only a value that is randomly generated in a mathematical sense, but even if the generation itself is regular, the acquisition timing and the like are irregular. Includes a value that can function as a random number.

  The lottery means 120 is a means for performing an internal lottery for determining whether or not a winning combination is made based on a game start signal from a start switch 230 that is actuated by the player depressing the start lever SL. , Random number determination processing, flag setting processing, and the like.

  In the lottery table selection process, it is determined which of the plurality of lottery tables stored in the lottery table storage unit 191 of the storage unit 190 is to be used for lottery. In the gaming machine of the present embodiment, a plurality of types of game states such as a normal state, a big bonus state (BB state: an example of a special state), and a replay time state (RT state: an example of a special state) can be set. The storage means 190 stores a lottery table for internal lottery in each gaming state. In the lottery table for each game state, a predetermined number of medals are paid out for each of a plurality of random values (for example, 65536 random values from 0 to 65535) and small roles (winning prizes). ), A big bonus (BB), etc.

  In the gaming machine of this embodiment, in the lottery table for each gaming state, the types of combinations that are the targets of the internal lottery executed in each gaming state are different. For example, in the normal state or the RT state, the big bonus (BB), the small role, and the replay are the targets of the internal lottery, but in the BB state, the replay is not the target of the internal lottery, It is subject to internal lottery. Even in the big bonus state (BB state), replay may be an object of internal lottery.

  In the random number determination process, one random number value (lottery random number) is acquired from the random number generation unit 110 for one game based on the game start signal from the start switch 230, and the lottery table of the storage unit 190 for the acquired random number value. It is determined whether or not the winning combination is won with reference to the lottery table stored in the storage unit 191.

  In the flag setting process, based on the result of random number determination, the flag of the winning combination determined to be won is changed from the non-internal winning state (first flag state, off state) to the internal winning state (second flag state, on state). ). The flag setting information is stored in the flag storage unit 192 of the storage unit 190. Also, in this embodiment, a flag that can carry on the internal winning state for the next game until the prize is won (carry-over possible flag) and a non-internal winning without carrying the internal winning state for the next game regardless of the winning. A flag to be reset to a state (carry-over impossible flag) is prepared. The combination with which the former flag (carry-over possible flag) is associated is a big bonus (BB), and other combinations (for example, small role, replay, etc.) are associated with the latter flag (carry-through impossible flag). ing.

  The reel control means 130 uses a step motor to drive the first reel R1 to the third reel R3 based on a game start signal from a start switch 230 that is activated when the player depresses the start lever SL (an example of a start operation). In addition to performing rotational drive control, a step motor is used based on a reel stop signal from a stop switch 240 that is actuated when the player presses stop buttons B1 to B3 (an example of operation means) (an example of a stop operation). Control is performed to stop the first reel R1 to the third reel R3, which are rotationally driven, in accordance with the set state of the flag (whether or not the winning combination).

  Further, when the reel control means 130 stops the first reel R1 to the third reel R3, the stop buttons B1 to B3 are referred to by referring to the stop control table stored in the stop control table storage means 193 of the storage means 190. The stop positions of the first reel R1 to the third reel R3 are determined according to the pressing timing of the button (mode of stop operation), and the reels so that the first reel R1 to the third reel R3 stop at the determined stop position. Control is performed to stop each reel by stopping the supply of drive pulses (motor drive signal) to the step motor of the unit 310.

  The reel control means 130 performs so-called pull-in processing and kick-out processing as control for stopping the reel. The pull-in process is a control process for stopping the reel so that the symbol corresponding to the combination whose flag is set to the internal winning state is stopped on the active line (so that the winning combination can be won). On the other hand, the kicking process is a control to stop the reel so that the symbol corresponding to the combination whose flag is set to the non-internal winning state does not stop on the active line (so that the winning combination cannot be won). It is processing. That is, in the gaming machine of the present embodiment, in order to realize the above-described pull-in process and kick-off process, the flag setting state, the press timing of the stop buttons B1 to B3, the press order, the stop position of the reel that has already stopped (or the effective line) The stop control table is set so that the stop position of each reel changes according to the types of symbols stopped on L1 to L5. In this way, the reel control means 130 can stop the symbol of the combination for which the flag is set to the internal winning state in the form of winning, while the symbol of the combination for which the flag is set to the non-winning state is in the form of winning. Control is performed to stop the first reel R1 to the third reel R3 so as not to stop.

  In the gaming machine of this embodiment, in the stop control table for determining the stop position of each rotating reel, the number of frames required for each reel to stop is set up to 5 frames, and the reel control The means 130 is a symbol that is a maximum of four frames ahead from the frame positioned in the display window DW when an operation that triggers the stop of the stop buttons B1 to B3 is performed in the pull-in process for the first reel R1 to the third reel R3. The reels are controlled so that they can be pulled in. For this reason, the first reel R1 to the third reel R3 can be stopped by arranging a plurality of specific symbols (for example, replay symbols) arranged on each reel so that the interval is within 5 frames. It is also possible to configure the reel unit 310 having a symbol arrangement that allows a specific symbol to be drawn on the effective line regardless of the timing of pressing the buttons B1 to B3, the pressing order, or the like.

  The winning determination unit 140 performs processing for determining whether or not a winning combination has been won based on the stopped state of the first reel R1 to the third reel R3. Specifically, when all of the first reel R1 to the third reel R3 are stopped, referring to the winning determination table stored in the winning determination table storage unit 194 of the storage unit 190, each reel is stopped. It is determined whether or not the combination of symbols stopped on the active line is a predetermined winning combination.

  In the gaming machine of this embodiment, based on the determination result of the winning determination means 140, control for paying out medals, control for crediting medals to be paid out, replay processing, and gaming state are shifted. Which of the controls is to be performed is determined. For example, when a small combination wins, medal payout control by the payout control means 150 and medal credit control by the credit control means 175 are performed, and when replay wins, the replay processing means 160 performs replay processing. When the BB wins, the game state transition control means 170 controls to shift the game state.

  The payout control means 150 performs control related to the payout of medals according to the game result. Specifically, when a small winning combination is won, the hopper unit HP (payout device) is controlled to pay out medals corresponding to the number of payouts corresponding to the winning small winning combination. When the credit control means 155 permits medal credit (internal storage), instead of paying out medals by the payout control means 150, the credit control means 155 stores the credit data storage means 195 in the storage means 190. Credit data update processing is performed in which a part or all of the payout number is added to the stored credit number (the number of medals stored internally). In addition, when a replay or BB wins as a result of the game, a medal is not paid out from the hopper unit HP, but a process in which the payout control means 150 has formally paid out 0 medals (0-sheet process) )It is carried out.

  The credit control unit 155 performs various processes on the credit data storage unit 195 of the storage unit 190 and the credit indicator CD based on the input signal from the medal insertion switch 210 and the settlement switch 250 or the result of the winning determination by the winning determination unit 140. I do. For example, a maximum of three credit medals (internally stored medals) (predetermined number of insertions) based on a bet input signal from a bet switch 220 that is activated by pressing the bet button B0 (an example of an insertion operation means). The control process for setting the input state is performed.

  In the gaming machine of the present embodiment, the credit control unit 155 includes a credit data update unit 155A and a credit display control unit 155B.

  The credit data updating means 155A credits the medals inserted up to 50 (upper limit number of credits) based on the medal insertion signal from the medal insertion switch 210 for detecting the medal inserted into the medal insertion slot MI (internal). The credit data storage unit 195 updates and stores information on the number of credit medals (number of credits) and the like as needed. As a result of the game, when a small combination wins, a medal corresponding to the number of payouts corresponding to the winning small combination is awarded on the condition that the number of credits has not reached the maximum number of credits (50). And a process of adding the number of newly credited medals to the number of credits stored in the credit data storage means 195 is performed. That is, the credit data updating unit 155A performs a process of crediting all or part of medals corresponding to the number of payouts corresponding to the winning small combination with the upper limit number of credits as a threshold value. If a part of medals corresponding to the number of payouts corresponding to the winning small combination is credited with the winning of the small combination, the remaining medals that have not been credited are controlled by the payout control of the payout control means 150. It is paid out from the hopper unit HP.

  In addition, the gaming machine according to the present embodiment includes a credit display CD composed of a 7-segment display as one of the display devices 330, and the credit display control means 155B outputs a display control signal to the credit display CD. By doing so, control (display value) corresponding to the number of credits stored in the credit data storage means 195 is displayed on the credit indicator CD. Then, when the credit number stored in the credit data storage unit 195 is updated by the credit data update unit 155A, the credit display control unit 155B sends a display control signal based on the updated credit number to the credit indicator CD. Output to. Then, the credit display device CD performs an operation of updating the display value in response to the display control signal output from the credit display control means 155B.

  In particular, in the present embodiment, the credit display control means 155B performs normal control for outputting a display control signal to the credit indicator CD at a predetermined interval according to the number of medals credited with winning a small role, Based on the establishment of the condition, special control is performed to vary the output interval of the display control signal output to the credit indicator CD. That is, in the gaming machine of the present embodiment, during special control, when a part or all of medals (medals corresponding to the number of small part dividends) to be paid out with the winning of a small part are credited, The speed at which the display value of the credit indicator CD is updated can be varied based on the establishment of the condition for shifting to the special state. Specifically, the credit display control unit 155B monitors the setting state of the big bonus (BB) flag stored in the flag storage unit 192 and wins BB in the internal lottery in the normal state or the RT state. Based on this, special control can be executed in the game until the winning BB wins.

  When the replay (re-game) wins, the replay processing means 160 performs a replay process (re-game process) for setting the same preparation state as the previous game without requiring insertion of medals for the next game. That is, in the gaming machine of the present embodiment, when a replay is won, the same number of medals as the previous game are automatically set to the inserted state without using the player's own medals (including credit medals). The bet process is performed, and the next game start operation (operation of pressing the start lever SL by the player) is waited in a state where the same active line as the previous game is enabled.

  The gaming state transition control means 170 is based on the establishment of a predetermined transition condition between a normal state, a replay time state (RT state: an example of a special state), and a big bonus state (BB state: an example of a special state). Control to change the gaming state. As the game condition transition condition, one condition may be defined, or a plurality of conditions may be defined. When a plurality of conditions are defined, the gaming state may be shifted to another gaming state based on the fact that one of the plurality of conditions is satisfied, You may make it transfer a game state to another game state based on all having been established.

  The RT state is a gaming state that uses the end of the BB state as a start condition. In the RT state, when the BIG BONUS (BB) flag is in an internal winning state during the game, and the number of games in the RT state is a predetermined number (1, 5, 10, 50, 100, etc.) If any one of the cases is reached, control is performed so as to end and shift to another gaming state.

  In the gaming machine of the present embodiment, the game state transition control means 170 monitors the number of games in the RT state. In the RT state, a value corresponding to a predetermined number of games is set as the number of RT games at the time of transition from the BB state, and the game state transition control means 170 decrements the number of RT games by one each time a game is played. When the number of RT games becomes 0, the RT state ends and the gaming state shifts to another gaming state. It is not necessary to set the number of RT games for a predetermined number of games in advance, but to reset the number of RT games at the time of transition to the RT state (to make it 0) only once for each game. The value may be counted up.

  In games in the RT state, the winning probabilities for replay (re-playing), which do not require insertion of medals in the next game due to winning, are increased from the normal state while the winning probabilities for the small role and BB are maintained. That is, in the RT state, the replay winning frequency is higher than that in the normal state, so that medals are less likely to be consumed than in the normal state, and the gaming state (special state) is advantageous to the player.

  The BB state is a gaming state in which a predetermined big bonus symbol (BB symbol) is stopped in a winning form when the big bonus (BB) is internally won in the normal state or the RT state. In the BB state, the end condition is that medals exceeding a predetermined number (for example, a predetermined number of 465 or less) are paid out in the bonus game, and when the end condition is satisfied, the game state is changed. Control is made to shift to the RT state.

  In the bonus game in the BB state, the type and winning probability of the small combination (the combination to which the number of payouts (predetermined number) of medals for each combination is paid out in accordance with the winning combination) is controlled. That is, in the BB state, it is easier to obtain more medals in a shorter period than in the normal state, and the gaming state (special state) is advantageous for the player.

  The effect control means 180 refers to the effect table stored in the effect table storage means 196, and uses the display device 330 such as a lamp, LED, liquid crystal display or the like based on the effect data constituting the effect table. And control related to sound production by sound output from the speaker 340. Specifically, the lamps and LEDs are turned on or blinked in response to the occurrence of gaming events such as changes in gaming state, winning combinations, inserting medals, and operations on the bet button B0, start lever SL, and stop buttons B1 to B3. Or by changing the display content of the liquid crystal display LCD or outputting sound from the speaker 340, the game is boosted or effect control is performed to assist the game.

  Note that the functional block configuration of the present embodiment can also be applied to a computer system (including a game system). In these systems, the function is realized by downloading a program that causes a computer to function as the game control unit 100 of the present embodiment from an information storage medium such as a CD or DVD or a Web server on the Internet via a network. be able to. In the above computer system, the medal insertion switch 210, the bet switch 220, the start switch 230, the stop switch 240, the checkout switch, and the like have their functions with respect to operation means such as a keyboard, a pointing device (mouse, etc.) or a controller. This can be realized by virtually allocating. In the computer system, the reel unit 310, the hopper unit HP, and the like are not indispensable constituent elements, and these device units virtually perform their functions by controlling images displayed on the display (display device 330). Can be realized.

2. Next, a control method employed in the gaming machine of the present embodiment will be specifically described with reference to FIGS. 4 to 9.

  In the present embodiment, when a part or all of medals corresponding to the number of payouts of the winning small combination are credited with the winning of the small combination, it is output to the credit indicator CD at a predetermined interval during normal control. A technique is employed in which the speed at which the display value of the credit indicator CD is updated is varied by performing special control that varies the output interval of the display control signal. In the following, description will be given by taking as an example a case where a small combination with the number of payouts set to 6 wins.

  First, in the normal control, when a winning combination is detected, as shown in FIG. 4A, display control signals SG1 to SG6, which are signals specifying the display value of the credit indicator CD, are separated by a predetermined interval T1. Control to send to the credit indicator CD is performed, and the display value of the credit indicator CD is sequentially updated in response to the display control signals SG1 to SG6.

  Specifically, the display value of the credit indicator CD indicating “30” (indicating that 30 medals have been credited) in response to the display control signal SG1 is one medal. It changes to “31” updated by the minute. Next, in response to the display control signal SG2 that is sent out with an interval T1, the display value of the credit indicator CD further changes to “32” updated by one medal. In this way, finally, in response to the display control signal SG6, the display value of the credit indicator CD changes to “36”, which is added and updated by the amount corresponding to the number of payouts to the display value before winning a prize. To do. As a result, during normal control, the added number of credit medals for six credits corresponding to the number of payouts for the small combination is reflected in the display value of the credit indicator CD over the period t1.

  On the other hand, in the special control, when a winning of a small role is detected, as shown in FIG. 4B, control for sending display control signals SG1 to SG6 to the credit indicator CD with a predetermined interval T2 (<T1). The display values of the credit indicator CD are sequentially updated in response to the display control signals SG1 to SG6. Here, as shown in FIG. 4B, in the special control, the display control signals SG1 to SG6 are sent at intervals shorter than those in the normal control. As a result, during special control, the added number of credit medals for six credits corresponding to the number of payouts for the small combination is reflected in the display value of the credit indicator CD over the period t2.

  As described above, according to the example shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B, during special control, the number of medals credited with winning a small role is reflected in the display value of the credit indicator CD. The period up to can be shortened compared to the normal control. That is, according to the control method of the present embodiment, at the time of special control, the output interval of the display control signals SG1 to SG6 is changed with respect to that at the time of normal control, so that a medal is credited for one small role winning. In this case, the period required for the display update process of the credit display device CD can be freely changed, for example, by extending or shortening the period. Therefore, according to the control method of the present embodiment, the time required for the display update processing of the credit indicator CD performed for one winning of a small combination is different between the normal control time and the special control time. Accordingly, the update rate of the display value of the credit indicator CD can be varied.

  Next, an example of control processing of the gaming machine that realizes the method of the present embodiment will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS.

  FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing the relationship between a plurality of gaming states.

  First, in the gaming machine of this embodiment, the normal state is set by the initial setting, and the normal game is executed (step S10). Then, when BB is won during the normal state (Step S11) and the BB symbols are aligned on the active line of 1 and stopped (Y in Step S12), the gaming state is changed from the normal state to the BB state. Transition is made (step S13).

  In the BB state, the type of winning combination and the winning rate are increased, and a BB game is executed in which more medals can be acquired in a shorter time than in the normal state. The BB game continues until medals exceeding a predetermined number (for example, 465) are paid out (N in step S14), and when the total payout number of medals reaches the predetermined number (Y in step S14), the BB state Ends. When the BB state ends, the number of games in the RT state (value corresponding to a predetermined number of games) is set, and then the gaming state is shifted to the RT state (steps S15 and S16).

  In the RT state, an RT game is executed in which the winning probability of replay is higher than in the normal state. If the BB is won in the RT state (Y in step S17), the RT state is forcibly terminated and the gaming state is shifted to the BB winning standby state (to step S11). Further, in the RT state, when the number of RT games corresponding to the number of games set in step S15 is consumed (when the number of games becomes 0: Y in step S18), the gaming state is returned to the normal state. (To step S10).

  FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an example of game control processing performed in the normal state.

  First, when the player presses the start lever SL to operate the start switch (Y in step S20), an internal lottery is performed (step S21). At this time, the flag of the winning combination (winning winning combination) in the internal lottery is set to ON (internal winning state).

  Subsequently, supply of drive pulses to the step motor that drives the first reel R1 to the third reel R3 is started, and each reel is rotationally driven (step S22). When the rotation speed of each reel reaches a predetermined speed, the operation of the stop buttons B1 to B3 is permitted, and when the player presses the stop buttons B1 to B3, the stop switch corresponding to each button is activated to operate the step motor. The process of stopping the reel is performed by stopping the supply of the drive pulse to Y (step 23, Y, step S24).

  When all of the first reel R1 to the third reel R3 are stopped (Y in step S25), a winning determination process is performed based on the stopped state of each reel (step S26). If any winning combination is won as a result of the winning determination (Y in step S26), a winning process is performed (step S27). For example, when a small combination wins, the number of medals corresponding to the number of payouts of the small combination is paid out. However, if the number of credits stored as a credit medal has not reached the upper limit number of credits (for example, 50), some or all of the medals corresponding to the number of payouts are credited until the upper limit number of credits is reached. Credit processing to add as a medal is performed. When a part of medals corresponding to the number of payouts are added as credit medals, the remaining medals are actually paid out. Also, for example, when a replay wins, after processing 0 sheets, when starting the next game, the same number of medals as the previous game are inserted without requiring the player's own medals. Automatic loading processing is performed. Further, for example, when a big bonus (BB) is won, a process of shifting the gaming state to the BB state is performed after performing the 0-sheet process.

  FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing an example of credit processing when a small combination wins.

  First, as a result of the game, when a small combination wins (Y in step S30), it is checked whether or not the current number of credits has reached an upper limit (for example, 50) (step S31). If the current number of credits has reached the upper limit (Y in step S31), the medal cannot be credited, and the credit processing is terminated.

  On the other hand, if the number of credits has not reached the upper limit (N in step S31), a credit data update process for crediting all or a part of medals corresponding to the number of payouts of small roles is executed (step S32). ). That is, if the difference between the current credit number and the upper limit number is larger than the number of small bonuses, it corresponds to the total number of small bonuses with respect to the current credit number stored in the credit data storage means 195. When the difference between the current number of credits and the upper limit number is smaller than the number of small bonuses, the small bonus dividend is compared to the current credit number stored in the credit data storage unit 195. Among the numbers, an update process is performed to add a value corresponding to the difference between the current credit number and the upper limit number.

  When the credit data update process is performed, it is next checked with reference to the flag storage means 192 whether or not the BB flag is on (internal winning state) (step S33).

  If the BB flag is on (Y in step S33), a random number is acquired and a display update condition setting lottery is executed (step S34).

  Here, when the BB flag is off (N in step S33), or when the win is not won in the display update condition setting lottery (N in step S35), the display update condition is the normal condition (send display control signal). The variable α = 1) for designating the interval is set (step S36), and the credit display update process for updating the display value of the credit indicator CD is executed by the normal control for controlling the transmission interval of the display control signal according to the normal condition. (Step S38).

  On the other hand, if the display update condition setting lottery is won (Y in step S35), the display update condition is set to a special condition (variable α = 0.1 specifying the display control signal transmission interval) (step S37). Then, a credit display update process for updating the display value of the credit indicator CD is executed by special control for controlling the transmission interval of the display control signal according to the special condition (step S38).

  As shown in FIG. 7, in the present embodiment, the condition for checking whether the BB state transition condition is satisfied is checked based on the set state of the BB flag, and updating the display value of the credit indicator CD based on the check result. Can be switched from the normal condition to the special condition, so that the transition condition of the BB state, which is of great interest to the player, is established according to the difference in speed at which the display value of the credit indicator CD is updated, and the credit display It becomes possible to attract the player's interest regarding the display operation of the device CD.

  Next, a specific example of the credit display update process will be described with reference to FIG.

  In the credit display update process, first, when a display control signal is transmitted to the credit display CD (step S40), the display value of the credit display CD is updated to the value specified by the transmitted display control signal. In this example, a timer interrupt is periodically generated after the start of display control signal transmission, and the output of the display control signal is limited according to the display update condition set in steps S36 and 37 of FIG. Step S41). Then, the processing of step S40 and step S41 is repeatedly executed until the display value is updated by the number of medals newly credited in accordance with the winning of the small role (step S42). That is, in the example shown in FIG. 8, during normal control, a display control signal is sent to the credit indicator CD at intervals of 1 second, and during special control, a display control signal is sent to the credit indicator CD at intervals of 0.1 seconds. .

  The present invention is not limited to the one described in the above embodiment, and various modifications can be made. For example, in the above-described embodiment, the case where the normal state, the RT state, and the BB state are set as the game state has been described as an example, but other game states may be set. For example, a regular bonus state in which a bonus game in which the winning rate of the small role is increased is continuously performed until a predetermined condition is satisfied with respect to the number of wins (for example, 8 times) or the number of games (for example, 12 times). RB state: an example of a special state) may be set. In addition, when both the BB state and the RB state can be set, or when a plurality of types of BB states can be set, the display is updated during special control according to the type of bonus (special role) won in the internal lottery. Conditions may be set individually.

  In addition, when a specific combination is won as a gaming state, after storing it, the stock time state (ST state) in which the stored combination is released based on a predetermined condition, or the probability of releasing the stored combination increases. A high emission probability state may be set. In such an ST state or a high release probability state, the display value of the credit indicator CD may be updated by special control in a game after the condition that the stored combination is released is satisfied.

  In the present embodiment, since the BB state is terminated on condition that the number of payouts in the BB state exceeds a predetermined number, the credit indicator CD is provided on the condition that the number of payouts in the BB state is close to the predetermined number. The control for updating the display value may be switched from normal control to special control. In this way, it is possible to notify the player that the end of the BB state is near due to the difference in the speed of updating the display value of the credit indicator CD.

  In addition, in the BB state, the small role is won more frequently than in the normal state, so that there are many opportunities to update the display value of the credit indicator CD in the initial stage of the BB state. For this reason, the display update condition may be switched between the normal condition and the special condition in accordance with the game state. Especially in the BB state, the period until the update of the display value of the credit indicator CD is completed is normal. It is preferable to set the display update condition so that it takes less time than the state.

  Although not particularly mentioned in the above embodiment, the lottery table is set so that there are a case where a small role and a bonus (for example, BB) are won in the internal lottery and a case where a small role is won alone. It may be. In this case, in a game in which a small role is won alone, the control for updating the display value of the credit indicator CD in accordance with the winning of the small role is performed by normal control. The control for updating the display value of the credit indicator CD in accordance with the winning of the small role may be performed by special control. In this way, even if the same small combination wins, the player is informed whether the small combination and bonus are won by the difference in the speed of updating the display value of the credit indicator CD. Since the player can quickly recognize the winning of the bonus, the operation interface environment of the gaming machine can be improved.

  In the above embodiment, the case where the output interval of the display control signal during the special control is constant in the period until the update of the display value of the credit indicator CD has been described as an example. The output interval of the display control signal at the time may be changed in a period until the update of the display value of the credit indicator CD is completed. For example, if the output interval of the display control signal is shortened sequentially, the display value of the credit indicator CD can be updated at an accelerated rate.

  In the above embodiment, the speed at which the display value of the credit indicator CD is updated is varied by varying the output interval of the display control signal output to the credit indicator CD during normal control and special control. Although described as an example, for example, by changing the display value update unit specified by the display control signal between normal control and special control, the speed at which the display value of the credit indicator CD is updated is varied. You may do it.

  For example, as shown in FIG. 9 (A), during normal control, when a winning combination is detected, the display value of the credit indicator CD is updated so that the display value is updated in units of one for the credit indicator CD. Control is performed to output display control signals SG1 to SG6 for designating display values at a predetermined interval T1, and, as shown in FIG. 9B, in the special control, when a winning combination is detected, the credit indicator CD is displayed. On the other hand, control may be performed to output display control signals SG′1 to SG′3 that designate the display value of the credit indicator CD so that the display value is updated in units of two sheets. In this way, even if the display control signal is output at the same interval during normal control and during special control, the number of display control signal outputs can be reduced during special control. The update of the display value can be completed in a period t2 shorter than the period t1 required until the update is completed. In this case, the display value update units designated by the display control signals SG′1 to SG′3 output to the credit indicator CD during the special control may be different from each other. For example, the display value is updated in units of one sheet based on the display control signal SG′1, the display value is updated in units of two sheets based on the display control signal SG′2, and 3 based on the display control signal SG′3. If the special control for outputting the display control signals SG′1 to SG′3 is performed so that the display value is updated in units of sheets, the display value of the credit indicator CD can be updated at an accelerated speed. In the example of the special control shown in FIG. 9B, the control method shown in FIG. 4B can be applied to change the output interval of the display control signal with respect to the normal control.

  Further, in the above embodiment, when a bonus (for example, BB) is won in each game state of the normal state and the RT state, it is possible to execute special control for changing the speed at which the display value of the credit indicator CD is updated. The case has been described as an example, but the above-described special control may be executed only when a bonus is won in the RT state. In particular, in the case where the gaming state shifts to the RT state after the bonus ends as in the above-described embodiment, the player is notified by performing the special control in the RT state and informing the winning of the bonus. It is possible to give a sense of accomplishment that the bonus has been extended.

It is a perspective view which shows the external appearance structure of the game machine of this embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows the relationship between the control board of the gaming machine of this embodiment, and a credit display. It is explanatory drawing of the functional block of the gaming machine of this embodiment. It is a figure for demonstrating the control method of this embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the process example of the gaming machine of this embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the process example of the gaming machine of this embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the process example of the gaming machine of this embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the process example of the gaming machine of this embodiment. It is a figure for demonstrating the modification of the control method of this embodiment.

Explanation of symbols

BX storage box, UD front upper door, DD front lower door, DW display window,
DS game information display, CD credit display,
R1 first reel, R2 second reel, R3 third reel,
B0 bet button, SL start lever, B1-B3 stop button,
B4 checkout button, MI medal slot, MO medal payout slot,
MP medal tray, LCD liquid crystal display, HP hopper unit,
100 game control means,
110 random number judging means, 120 lottery means, 130 reel control means,
140 winning determination means, 150 payout control means,
155 credit control means,
155A credit data update means, 155B credit display control means,
160 replay processing means, 170 gaming state transition control means, 180 effect control means,
190 storage means, 191 lottery table storage means, 192 flag storage means,
193 stop control table storage means, 194 winning determination table storage means,
195 credit data storage means, 196 effect table storage means,
210 medal insertion switch, 220 bet switch, 230 start switch,
240 stop switch, 250 checkout switch,
310 reel unit, 330 display device, 340 speaker

Claims (3)

Lottery means for performing an internal lottery to determine the success or failure of multiple types of roles using random numbers;
Winning determination means for determining whether or not the winning combination in the internal lottery has won,
The game media with the number of payouts corresponding to the winning combination is controlled to be able to be credited until a predetermined credit upper limit is reached, and the display value of the display device is set according to the number of gaming media credited for winning the winning combination. A gaming machine comprising credit control means for performing control for updating,
The display device is provided to update a display value in response to a display control signal output from the credit control means,
The credit control means;
While performing normal control to output to the display device a display control signal for updating the display value in a predetermined update unit according to the number of game media credited in accordance with the winning of the role,
Based on the establishment of a predetermined condition, the update unit of the display value specified by the display control signal output to the display device in accordance with the winning of the combination is varied, and the winning of the combination with respect to the display value is performed. A gaming machine that performs special control to update the display value a plurality of times until the number of game media to be credited is added . In claim 1,
The credit control means;
A gaming machine that performs control to vary an output interval of the display control signal output to the display device based on establishment of the predetermined condition. In claim 1 or 2,
Provided with a game state transition control means for performing control to shift a game state between a plurality of types of game states including a normal state and a special state in which the player is more advantageous than the normal state based on establishment of a predetermined transition condition With
The credit control means;
A gaming machine, wherein the special control is performed based on establishment of a condition for transition to the special state.

Images