JP4763067B2 - Slot machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a slot machine.

  In order for a player to win a prize in a slot machine, it is necessary not only to win a prize by an internal lottery but also to align the winning combination in the winning line. For this reason, when a player knows that one of the prizes has been won in the internal lottery, he / she observes the variable display of the symbols and operates the stop button in a timely manner so that the winning prizes are aligned on the winning line. To do. Such an operation is referred to as a push and is a game element that requires the player's skill, but it is not easy for the player to perform the push well. For this reason, for example, Patent Document 1 discloses that the lighting state of a lamp provided inside the reel is changed to notify the player of the timing of pressing.

JP 2003-038716 A

However, even if the lighting state of the lamp is changed to notify the timing of pressing as described in Patent Document 1, the player must recognize this notification and react quickly to perform a stop operation. It will still fail to see.
In some slot machines, for example, if a prize is awarded during the replay time, the replay time ends. In this case, since winning the cherry prize is disadvantageous for the player, if the player knows that he has won the cherry prize during the replay time, it is necessary to perform a stop operation so as not to win the cherry prize.

The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, the particular when winning a prize, capable slot machine stopping readily variable display of the display column so as not to pay to those selected to award It is a solution subject to provide.

  The present invention will be described below. In order to facilitate understanding of the present invention, reference numerals and the like in the accompanying drawings are appended in parentheses, but the present invention is not limited to the illustrated form.

In order to solve the above-described problems, each slot machine (1) according to the present invention can cyclically variably display a symbol having a predetermined number of frames, and the minimum unit of stop control of the variable display is 1 When a step is taken, a plurality of display columns (R1 to R3) that require n (n is a natural number) steps until the symbol completes and a variable display start instruction for the plurality of display columns (R1 to R3) are input. And a plurality of stop instruction means (13a to 13c) for inputting a variable display stop instruction provided corresponding to each of the plurality of display columns (R1 to R3). In response to an instruction from the start instructing means (12), each of the plurality of display columns (R1 to R3) is variably displayed and variably displayed at a constant speed after a predetermined acceleration period. Stop instruction means 13a to 13c), the variable display control means for stopping the variable display of the display row corresponding to the stop instruction means that has received the instruction within a predetermined number of pull-in steps after a predetermined deceleration period. (101), in the slot machine (1) that is awarded when the stop mode after the variable display of the plurality of display rows (R1 to R3) is stopped is a predetermined winning mode, The plurality of display columns (R1 to R3) include one specific display column (R1), and a lottery is performed for each game, and a winning permission means (101) that permits winning based on the result of the lottery. , and TBL1), when the number of steps from the reference position and the step position in the display row, the prize allowed by winning permission means (101, TBL1) that when a certain prize, not winning before Symbol particular award Identifying as a specific step position said step position before Symbol certain display columns (R1) to the specific means (101, TBL6), each of said plurality of display rows (R1-R3) is variably displayed in the constant speed Reception enabling means (101) that validates the reception of the instructions of the plurality of stop instruction means (13a to 13c) at a predetermined timing in the state of being present, and the specifying means (101, TBL6) ) Is a winning line set at the bottom of the winning lines set for the specific display row (R1) or a plurality of winning lines set for the specific display row (R1). One specific pay line is set at the top of one pay line set for the specific display row (R1) or a plurality of pay lines set for the specific display row (R1). The selected winning line is set as the second specified winning line, the position at which the symbols constituting the specified winning line stop on the first specified winning line is set as the first stop step position, and the symbol passes the first specified winning line. Then, when the position where the symbols constituting the specific prize are stopped at the second specific winning line is the second stop step position, the number of steps required for the deceleration period from the first stop step position is behind. And the specific step position is set within a range before the second stop step position by the number of pull-in steps, and the reception enabling means (101) is configured to receive the winning permission means (101, TBL1). At least on the specific display row (R1) among the plurality of display rows (R1 to R3), on the condition that the award permitted in the step is the specific prize. The timing to enable reception, the variable display of the predetermined said specific display sequence from the timing (R1), characterized in that the switching timing has been reached with the particular step position.

According to the present invention, when a winning of a particular prize is permitted, the step position of the specific display row is identified so as not to win in Japanese Josho (specifying step position). In addition, on the condition that at least the winning of the specific prize is permitted, at the timing when the variable display of the specific display row reaches the specific step position, the instruction of the stop instruction means corresponding to the specific display row (hereinafter referred to as “stop operation”) Reception) is activated.
When the player knows that the winning of the specific prize has been permitted, that is, has won the specific prize in the internal lottery, the player plays so as to repeatedly hit the stop instruction means corresponding to the specific display sequence. That is, after the player operates the start instruction unit to start variable display of the display row, the player continues to hit the stop instruction unit from the stage before the acceptance of the stop operation is validated. Therefore, a control for stopping the variable display of the specific display row is performed by accepting the stop operation immediately after enabling the acceptance of the stop operation. Also, certain means has identified certain step position so as not to win especially Josho. That is, the specific means has identified step position can not be stopped symbols that make up a particular prize in certain display columns on pay line specifying step position. Therefore, the symbol constructing the specific prize in particular display columns is stopped in addition to the winning line.
According to the present invention, the player can simply pummeled stop instruction means corresponding to a specific display row without performing an observation push to stop the variable display of the display column so as not to win in Japanese Josho Will be able to. In addition, a continuous hitting operation is required instead of the eye pressing operation, and a new game characteristic that has not been possible in the past can be provided.

The “reference position” is a position that serves as a reference when the symbols are cyclically variably displayed, and is determined for each display row. This reference position is only a reference position when the symbol is cyclically variably displayed. Therefore, the reference position is fixed to one of the ranges in which the symbol makes a round so that the symbol can be detected once every round. What is necessary is just to be defined as a position. Further, the step position will be described in detail. When the time for one cycle of the symbol is one cycle, and the position of the display column variably displayed in one cycle is expressed in steps, the number of steps from the reference position is the step position. Become.
Further, “through a predetermined deceleration period within a predetermined number of pull-in steps” means that the number of deceleration steps is equal to or less than the number of pull-in steps when the number of steps in the deceleration period is the number of deceleration steps. Further, the predetermined number of pull-in steps is, for example, the number of steps corresponding to the number of frames that can be pulled in + one frame.
In addition, “when the stop mode after stopping all the variable display of the plurality of display columns is a predetermined winning mode, it becomes a prize” means that the variable display of all the display columns is stopped, This means that a winning combination is obtained when a combination of symbols that gives a game value is aligned on any winning line.

  In addition, the player basically knows from the notification from the slot machine that the winning of the specific prize is permitted. For example, during a special game in which the probability of winning the specific prize is set very high. If this is the case, it is possible to predict and know by itself that the winning of the specific prize is permitted without notification from the slot machine.

The reception validation means validates the acceptance of the stop operation at a predetermined timing in a state where all the display columns are variably displayed at a constant speed when at least a specific prize is not permitted. Here, specific examples of the predetermined timing include, for example, the timing when the variable display of all the display columns reaches a constant speed after the acceleration period, or the variable display of all the display columns reaches the constant speed. And the timing after a predetermined time has elapsed.
Since the order of stopping variable display for a plurality of display columns is arbitrary, when enabling acceptance of stop operation at a predetermined timing, timing for enabling acceptance of stop operation for all display columns However, the timing for enabling acceptance of the stop operation may be different for each display row.

Further, the reception validation means variably displays the timing for validating the acceptance of the stop operation from a predetermined timing, at least on the condition that the prize permitted by the winning permission means is a specific prize. Is switched to the timing when reaches the specific step position. Here, “at least on the condition that the prize permitted by the winning permission means is a specific prize” means that the timing for enabling acceptance of the stop operation is switched if the prize permitted by the winning permission means is a specific prize. Of course, in addition to the fact that the award permitted by the winning permission means is a specific award, it includes switching the timing for enabling the acceptance of the stop operation only when a condition is added and all conditions are satisfied. . For example, only when the award permitted by the winning permission means is a specific award and during a specific game (for example, during a replay time or a bonus game), the timing for enabling acceptance of the stop operation is switched, For example, only when a prize other than the specific prize is permitted at the same time, the timing for enabling the acceptance of the stop operation is switched.
In addition, the reception enabling means stops not only the specific display columns but also the remaining display columns at the same timing when the reception of the stop operation is enabled when the variable display of the specific display columns reaches the specific step position. You may validate reception of operation.

Na Contact, if the pay line set for a particular display column one, this one pay line, a first specific winning line provided on the lowest tier, the second specific winning provided most upper Become both of the line.

Further , in the present invention, since it is necessary to miss a specific prize in the specific display column, it is necessary that the symbols constituting the specific prize are arranged in a small number in the specific display column and are not at least 100% drawable symbols.
In addition, the next “symbol constituting the specific prize” is the same symbol when the variable display of the specific display column is completed when there is only one symbol in the specific display column. If there are a plurality of symbols in the specific display column, the symbol that constitutes the specific prize that reaches the second specific winning line is obtained.

By the way, when considering the case where there is one winning line, if the acceptance of the stop operation is activated immediately after the number of steps required for the deceleration period (the number of deceleration steps) from the stop step position, it will stop at the activated timing. Even if the operation is accepted, the symbols constituting the specific prize will not stop on the winning line. However, for example, even when there is only one symbol A constituting the specific prize in the specific display row, there is a possibility that the symbol A is stopped on the winning line if the variable display of the specific display row is completed. Further, when there are a plurality of symbols A constituting the specific prize in the specific display row (for example, symbols A1 and A2), after the symbol A1 passes the winning line, the symbol A2 is stopped on the winning line. there is a possibility. Therefore, the timing for validating the acceptance of the stop operation must be a timing at which the symbol A (or symbol A1) after one round and the next symbol A2 are not drawn on the winning line.
Further, for example, in the case of a slot machine in which a plurality of winning lines such as an upper winning line, a middle winning line, and a lower winning line are set, the symbol A (or symbol A1) passes through the lowest winning line. After that, it is necessary to make the timing when the symbol A (or symbol A1) and the next symbol A2 that have been completed are not drawn into the winning line provided at the top.

  For this reason, the specific step position may be within the range after the number of steps required for the deceleration period from the first stop step position and before the number of steps from the second stop step position to the front. It is preferable to validate the acceptance of the stop operation as early as possible after the number of steps required for the deceleration period from the step position. Because, in that case, the reception period of the stop operation that prevents the symbols constituting the specific prize in the specific display row from stopping on the winning line can be taken long, and not only immediately after the stop operation is validated, This is because even if the stop operation is accepted with a slight delay, the symbols constituting the specific prize can be stopped other than on the winning line. Of course, it is not always necessary to validate acceptance of the stop operation immediately before the number of steps required for the deceleration period from the stop step position, and any step position within the above range may be set as the specific step position.

Next, in the slot machine (1) described above, each of the plurality of display rows (R1 to R3) detects the reference position every time the symbol makes a round, and receives reference position signals (155a to 155c). Reference position detection means (55a to 55c) for output are provided, and the reception validation means (101) is based on the timing at which the reference position signal (155a) corresponding to the specific display row (R1) is detected. It is preferable that the reception corresponding to the specific display row (R1) is validated when the variable display of the specific display row (R1) reaches the specific step position.
When the display row is composed of reels, each reel is provided with a reference position detection means, and each reference position detection means detects the reference position every time the reel makes one rotation, and responds to the detection of the reference position. The reference position signal can be output.

According to this invention, it is detected that the variable display of the specific display row has reached the specific step position using the reference position signal that is output every time the symbol makes a round, so that the acceptance of the stop operation is validated. Timing can be accurately detected. For this reason, it is possible to determine the timing for enabling acceptance of the stop operation by using the maximum number of steps.
In addition, when the display row is composed of reels, the stepping motor is removed during the acceleration period by using the timing at which the reference position signal is detected after the rotation of all reels has reached a constant speed as a reference. Even if it is adjusted, the acceptance of the stop operation can be surely validated at the intended specific step position.
The reception validation means stops at the same timing not only for the specific display column but also for the remaining display columns when the acceptance of the stop operation is enabled when the variable display of the specific display column reaches the specific step position. You may validate reception of operation.

  Next, in the slot machine (1) described above, the acceptance validation means (101) is the shortest number of steps to proceed from the step position of the specific display row (R1) before starting the variable display to the specific step position. And the total number of steps obtained by adding the calculated number of steps to the number of steps obtained by multiplying the n steps by m (m is a natural number), and receiving an instruction from the start instruction means (12) It is preferable that the reception corresponding to the specific display column (R1) is validated when the variable display advances up to the total number of steps after the specific display column (R1 to R3) starts variable display. .

  In the case where the display row is composed of reels, the reception enabling means calculates the shortest number of steps to advance from the step position of the specific reel to the specific step position before starting the rotation, and the n steps The total number of steps obtained by adding the calculated number of steps to the number of steps multiplied by m (corresponding to a predetermined number of rotations) is calculated, and the specific reel rotates in response to an instruction from the start instruction means. From the beginning, when the rotation proceeds to the total number of steps, the reception corresponding to the specific reel can be validated.

According to the present invention, the timing for enabling the acceptance of the stop operation can be determined from the step position of the specific display row before the variable display is started, so that the control for validating the acceptance of the stop operation is simplified. it can.
Note that the reception validation means is the same for the remaining display columns as well as the specific display columns when validating the stop operation at the timing when the variable display of the specific display columns has advanced up to the calculated total number of steps. You may validate acceptance of stop operation at a timing.

Next, in the slot machine (1) described above, the plurality of display rows (R1 to R3) are stepping motors that rotate once in n (n is a natural number) steps, where the minimum unit of stop control is one step. 54a to 54c), which are constituted by a plurality of reels (R1 to R3) that are rotated so that symbols are variably displayed, and the start instruction means (12) is configured to rotate the plurality of reels (R1 to R3). The plurality of stop instruction means (13a to 13c) are provided corresponding to each of the plurality of reels (R1 to R3), and are used to input a rotation stop instruction. The variable display control means (101) rotates each of the plurality of reels (R1 to R3) in response to an instruction from the start instructing means (12), and a predetermined acceleration period. When each of the plurality of stop instructing means (13a to 13c) receives an instruction from the plurality of stop instructing means (13a to 13c) while rotating at a constant speed, the reel corresponding to the instructing stop instructing means receives a specified rotation step. A slot machine which is awarded when the stop mode after the stop of all the rotations of the plurality of reels (R1 to R3) is a predetermined winning mode 1), the plurality of reels (R1 to R3) includes one specific reel (R1), and the specifying means (101, TBL6) uses the number of steps from the reference position in the reel as a step position. when, if the prize has been permitted by the winning permission means (101, TBL1) is a particular prize, the step position before Symbol particular reels so as not to pay before Symbol particular prize (R1) Specified as a constant step position, said one set winning line for a particular reel, or the most winning lines provided in the lower first specific winning line of pay lines which are more set for a specific reel A winning line that is set to one for the specific reel, or a winning line that is provided at the top of a plurality of winning lines that are set for the specific reel is defined as a second specific winning line. The position at which the symbol constituting the specific prize stops on the specific winning line is defined as a first stop step position, the symbol passes the first specific winning line, and the symbol constituting the specific prize is the second specific position. When the stop position on the winning line is the second stop step position, the number of steps required for the deceleration period from the first stop step position is less than before, and The specific step position is set within a range from the second stop step position to the front of the number of pull-in steps, and the reception enabling means (101) is configured so that each of the plurality of reels (R1 to R3) At a predetermined timing in a state of rotating at a constant speed, each instruction of the plurality of stop instruction means (13a to 13c) is validated and the award permitted by the winning permission means (101, TBL1). At least on the condition that the specific award is the specific prize, the timing for validating the reception of at least the specific reel (R1) among the plurality of reels (R1 to R3) from the predetermined timing to the specific reel It is preferable to switch to the timing when the rotation of (R1) reaches the specific step position.

  As described above, the slot machine according to the present invention may be a slot machine including a mechanical reel. In the case of a slot machine including a mechanical reel as described above, the “reference position” is a position that serves as a reference in the rotation of the reel, and is determined for each reel. Since this reference position is a position that serves as a reference for the rotation of the reel, it may be determined as a fixed position so that it can be detected once every time the reel rotates once. Further, the step position will be specifically described. When the time for which the reel makes one rotation is one cycle, and the position of the peripheral surface of the reel that progresses in one cycle is expressed in steps, the number of steps from the reference position is the step position. It becomes.

According to the present invention, when winning a particular prize inside lottery, the variable display of the display column so as not to pay to those selected by the prize can be easily stopped. In addition, a continuous hitting operation is required instead of the eye pressing operation, and a new game characteristic that has not been possible in the past can be provided.

2 is a perspective view showing an appearance of the slot machine 1 according to the first embodiment. FIG. It is a figure for demonstrating winning lines L1-L5. It is a perspective view which shows the structure of the reel variable display apparatus RL. It is explanatory drawing which shows arrangement | positioning of the symbol printed on the reel belt | band | zones 58a-58c. 2 is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration of the slot machine 1. FIG. It is a figure for demonstrating the step position detection counter 108a for left reel R1. 5 is a timing chart showing the relationship among a reel position detection signal 155a, a symbol number PN, a reel drive signal 154a, an INTR signal, and a count value MD1. It is a figure explaining the various data memorize | stored in ROM104 of 100 A of main control boards. FIG. 3 is a diagram for explaining a prize and a combination and a game value to be given in the slot machine 1. FIG. 46 shows the types of games played on the slot machine 1. It is a figure for demonstrating the pullable range which can pull in and stop a "red cherry" symbol in the middle stage display position in left reel R1. It is a figure for demonstrating the pull-in impossible range which cannot pull in a "red cherry" symbol in the middle stage display position in left reel R1. It is explanatory drawing which shows the data structure of the validation timing change table TBL6. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of a process of 1 game. It is a figure explaining the lottery information produced | generated by the prize lottery table selected by prize lottery table determination processing, and the result of an internal lottery. It is a flowchart which shows the content of stop operation validation processing. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the stop operation validation process which concerns on 2nd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of a process of 1 game which concerns on 3rd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the content of stop operation validation pre-processing.

Embodiments according to the present invention will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.
<1: First Embodiment>
<1-1: External Configuration of Slot Machine 1>
FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an appearance of the slot machine 1.
The slot machine 1 includes a box-shaped main body 2 having an open front surface and a front door 3 disposed on the front surface of the main body 2. The main body 2 and the front door 3 are fixed on one side by a hinge so that they can be opened and closed. The front door 3 includes an operation unit OP in which buttons operated by the player are arranged, a reel window 20 for visually recognizing a design of the reel variable display device RL, and display units for displaying various information relating to the game. Is arranged, a liquid crystal display on which various information relating to the game is displayed, an effect display unit TP on which an illumination device is arranged, and a saucer unit BP.

  The operation unit OP is provided with a medal slot 10, a bet button 11, a start lever 12, a left stop button 13a, a middle stop button 13b, a right stop button 13c, and a checkout button 14. A medal slot 10 is disposed on the right side of the upper surface of the operation unit OP, and a bet button 11 is disposed on the left side of the upper surface. The game of the slot machine 1 is started by inserting a game medal into the medal slot 10 or operating the bet button 11. A start lever 12 for starting the rotation of the reels R1 to R3 is arranged on the front side of the lower position of the bet button 11, and a left stop button 13a for stopping the rotation of the left reel R1 on the right side thereof, The middle stop button 13b for stopping the rotation of the middle reel R2 and the right stop button 13c for stopping the rotation of the right reel R3 are arranged, and the basic operation sequence of the game is the bet button operation → start lever operation. It is easy to perform a series of operations: → left stop button operation → middle stop button operation → right stop button operation. On the left side of the start lever 12, a payment button 14 is provided for adjusting the credit stored in the storage device and paying out a medal to the medal tray 40. The checkout button 14 is used when the game is stopped, and is arranged at a position out of the flow of the above series of operations so that the operation frequency is low and the operation is not mistaken during the game.

  The panel display unit DP is provided with a reel window 20, a winning line display 21, a game guide display 22, and a game value information display 23. The reel window 20 is made of a transparent acrylic plate that looks at three consecutive symbols per reel. The player can view a total of nine symbols on three reels through the reel window 20. On the left side of the reel window 20, a winning line indicator 21 corresponding to each of the winning lines L1 to L5 is provided. When one game medal is inserted, the winning line indicator 21 corresponding to the winning line L1 is provided. Is turned on, and when two game medals are inserted, the winning line display 21 corresponding to the winning lines L2 and L3 is lit in addition to the winning line L1, and when three gaming medals are inserted, the winning lines L1 to L3 are displayed. In addition, the winning line indicators 21 corresponding to the winning lines L4 and L5 are turned on.

  Further, when a combination of predetermined symbols is established on any of the winning lines as a result of the game, the winning line display 21 corresponding to the established winning line blinks. Further, on the right side of the reel window 20, there is provided a game guide display 22 that lights up in accordance with winning or a game state. Further, a gaming value information display unit 23 provided below the reel window 20 accumulates a credit number display 23a for displaying the number of credits stored in the storage device and the number of payouts given during a predetermined game. A winning number display 23b for displaying the number of winnings and a payout number display 23c for displaying the number of payouts awarded when winning is provided.

  The effect display unit TP has a liquid crystal display 30 on which various information related to the game is displayed, an illumination LED 31 whose color or lighting pattern changes according to the progress of the game, BGM (Back-Ground Music), A speaker 32 for outputting operation sounds of various buttons is provided. The medal tray BP is provided with a medal tray 40 for storing game medals discharged from the medal payout opening 40 a by driving the medal payout device, and an ashtray 41 is provided on the left side of the medal tray 40.

FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining the winning lines L1 to L5.
The positions at which nine symbols are displayed are the upper display position (U1) of the left reel R1, the middle display position (M1) of the left reel R1, the lower display position (D1) of the left reel R1, and the middle reel R2, respectively. Upper display position (U2), middle reel R2 middle display position (M2), middle reel R2 lower display position (D2), right reel R3 upper display position (U3), right reel R3 middle display position (M3) The lower display position (D3) of the right reel R3. Further, on the reel window 20, horizontal winning lines L1 (M1-M2-M3), L2 (U1-U2-U3), and L3 (D1-D2-D3), and diagonal winning lines L4 (U1) are displayed. -M2-D3) and L5 (D1-M2-U3). Hereinafter, when it is not necessary to distinguish the upper display position, the middle display position, and the lower display position, they are simply referred to as “display positions”.

<1-2: Configuration of Variable Reel Display Device RL>
FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing the structure of the variable reel display device RL.
FIG. 3A shows the entire structure of the variable reel display device RL, and shows a state in which the right reel R3 is removed to show the inside of the variable reel display device RL. FIG. 3B shows the detailed structure of the right reel R3.

  The reels R1 to R3 have 21 various symbols (design numbers) on the peripheral surfaces of the reel frames 56a to 56c made of a transparent ABS resin having a plurality of spoke portions extending radially from the shaft portion and an annular frame. Reel bands 58a to 58c printed with PN = 1 to 21) are attached. The reels R <b> 1 to R <b> 3 are inserted along guide rails 51 a to 51 c corresponding to the respective reels provided above and below the case body 50 of the reel variable display device RL, and are accommodated in the case body 50.

  In the following, the right reel R3 will be described with reference to FIG. 3B, but the left reel R1 and the middle reel R2 have the same structure as the right reel R3. The right reel R3 is fixed to the stepping motor 54c and rotates. For the rotation of the right reel R3, a stepping motor 54c that rotates once with a pulse of 504 steps is used. Further, a backlight device 53c provided with LEDs (not shown) is provided so that light can be irradiated from the inside of the reel band 58c. In this way, by irradiating light from the inside of the reel band 58c by the backlight device 53c, the symbols on the reel band 58c can be made conspicuous.

A detection plate 57c is attached to one of the spoke portions, and a reel position detection signal 55c can be output by the reel position detection sensor 55c every time the right reel R3 makes one rotation. Detection plate 57c so that the center of the symbol of symbol number PN = 1 is positioned at the center line of the middle display position when the rotation of the right reel R3 is advanced by four steps after the detection of this reel position detection signal 155c. The position of the reel band 58c is set.
When the rotation of the right reel R3 is advanced by 4 steps after the detection of the reel position detection signal 155c, the center of the symbol of the symbol number PN = 1 is the center line of the upper display position or the center line of the lower display position. The positions of the detection plate 57c and the reel band 58c may be set so as to be positioned at the position. In addition, when the reel position detection signal 155c is detected, the positions of the detection plate 57c and the reel band 58c may be set so that the center of the symbol with the symbol number PN = 1 is located at the center line of the middle display position. .

  Further, the right reel R3, the stepping motor 54c, the backlight device 53c, and the reel position detection sensor 55c are fixed to the base plate 52c to constitute one unit, and this unit is inserted along the guide rail 51c. This is accommodated in the case body 50. 3 does not show the detailed structure of the left reel R1 and the middle reel R2, but the stepping motor 54c, the backlight device 53c, the detection plate 57c, the reel position detection sensor 55c, and the reel position detection for the right reel R3. The signal 155c corresponds to the stepping motor 54a, the backlight device 53a, the detection plate 57a, the reel position detection sensor 55a, and the reel position detection signal 155a in the left reel R1, and the stepping motor 54b and the backlight device in the middle reel R2. 53b, detection plate 57b, reel position detection sensor 55b, and reel position detection signal 155b.

FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing the arrangement of symbols printed on the reel bands 58a to 58c.
Twenty-one symbols are arranged at equal intervals on the left, middle, and right reels. Since stepping motors 54a to 54c that rotate once with a pulse of 504 steps are used, when 21 symbols are arranged, the interval between symbols is 24 steps. Further, when the rotation of the reel is advanced by four steps after the reel position detection signals 155a to 155c are detected, the center of the symbol of symbol number PN = 1 is positioned at the center line of the middle display position. Therefore, if the rotation of the reel is advanced by 28 steps after the detection of the reel position detection signals 155a to 155c, the center of the symbol of symbol number PN = 2 is positioned at the center line of the middle display position, and the reel is only 52 steps. If the rotation of the symbol No. PN = 3 is advanced, the center of the symbol No. PN = 3 is positioned at the center line of the middle display position, and if the reel rotation is advanced by 484 steps, the center of the symbol No. PN = 21 is the center of the symbol No. Will be located at the center line. If the processing proceeds beyond step 484, reel position detection signals 155a to 155c are detected again. Accordingly, a predetermined symbol can be positioned on the winning line L1 by the number of steps to be advanced with the timing at which the reel position detection signals 155a to 155c are detected as a base point.

  Also, in the same figure, the symbol of symbol number PN = 18 on the left reel R1 is a “white cherry” symbol in which the cherry part is painted white, and the symbol of symbol number PN = 11 on the left reel R1 is a cherry fruit. Is a “red cherry” design in which the portion is red, and the design number PN = 4 on the left reel R1 is a “black cherry” design in which the cherry part is black. As shown in parentheses in FIG. 4, the symbol arrangement on the reel band is “01” for the “red 7” symbol, “08” for the “white cherry” symbol, “red” In the case of the “cherry” symbol, “06” is stored as symbol code PC data.

<1-3: Electrical Configuration of Slot Machine 1>
FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration of the slot machine 1.
The slot machine 1 includes a main control board 100A that performs the main control of the game, a display control board 100B that controls the display of the liquid crystal display 30, and an electrical decoration control board 100C that controls the LEDs and sound effects. The main control board 100A includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 101, a clock generation circuit a102, a clock generation circuit b103, a ROM (Read-Only Memory) 104, a RAM (Random-Access Memory) 105, and a data transmission circuit. 106 and an input / output port 107. Note that a CPU 101 incorporating a ROM or RAM can be employed. In that case, the external ROM 104 and RAM 105 are not required.

  The CPU 101 reads out the program stored in the ROM 104 based on the timing of the CLK signal generated by the clock generation circuit a102, and sequentially executes the program. When the power is turned on, the CPU 101 executes the main program from a predetermined address, and is determined in advance at the timing of the INTR signal (interrupt signal) generated by the clock generation circuit b103 different from the cycle of the clock generation circuit a102. The interrupt program starting at the specified address is executed. The clock generation circuit b103 has an operation clock selected in accordance with the stepping motors 54a to 54c, and the interval between INTR signals is, for example, 1.48 milliseconds.

  The CPU 101 stores various flags, various counter values, and various game information in the RAM 105 in accordance with the execution of the program. Even when the power supplied from the outside is cut off, the RAM 105 retains the stored information by the battery. When the power is restored after that, the RAM 105 resumes from the state immediately before the occurrence of the power cut. The CPU 101 reads the state of various buttons and various sensors via the input / output port 107. The CPU 101 drives various motors and various LEDs via the input / output port 107.

  The bet operation instruction signals 111a to 111c, the start operation instruction signal 112, the stop operation instruction signals 113a to 113c, and the settlement operation instruction signal 114 are respectively a bet button 11, a start lever 12 and a stop button 13a provided to the operation unit OP. 13c, a signal detected in response to the player operating the checkout button 14, and is sent to the CPU 101 via the input / output port 107. The display control signals 123a to 123c are signals for displaying information on the credit number display 23a, the obtained number display 23b, and the payout number display 23c provided in the panel display unit DP, respectively. The data is output via 107.

  The reel position detection signals 155a to 155c are signals that are detected once for each rotation of the reels R1 to R3, and are sent to the CPU 101 via the input / output port 107. The reel drive signals 154a to 154c are pulse signals for driving the reels R1 to R3, and are output from the CPU 101 via the input / output port 107.

  The medal insertion signal 160 is a signal of a medal detection sensor that detects a game medal inserted into the medal insertion slot 10, and is sent to the CPU 101 via the input / output port 107. The medal detection sensor is provided in a medal selector provided on the back surface of the front door 3. The medal block signal 161 is a signal for driving a solenoid provided in the medal selector, and is output from the CPU 101 via the input / output port 107. The medal payout signal 162 is a signal of a medal payout sensor that detects a game medal paid out from the medal payout device, and is sent to the CPU 101 via the input / output port 107. The payout drive signal 163 is a signal for driving a motor provided in the medal payout device, and is output from the CPU 101 via the input / output port 107.

  The CPU 101 outputs various commands to the display control board 100B and the illumination control board 100C via the data transmission circuit 106. Based on various commands received from the main control board 100A, the illumination control board 100C controls the lighting of the winning line display 21, the game guide display 22, the illumination LED 31, and the backlight devices 53a to 53c, and the speaker 32. This controls the output of BGM and sound effects.

  The display control board 100B includes a CPU 191, a clock generation circuit c192, a clock generation circuit d193, a ROM 194, a RAM 195, a data input circuit 196, a graphic LSI, and a display circuit 197 including its peripheral circuits. The CPU 191 reads out the program stored in the ROM 194 based on the timing of the CLK signal generated by the clock generation circuit c192, and sequentially executes the program. When the power is turned on, the CPU 191 executes the main program from a predetermined address, and starts from a predetermined address at the timing of the INTR1 signal generated by the clock generation circuit d193 different from the cycle of the clock generation circuit c192. Run the interrupt program. Further, the CPU 191 stores various flags, various counters, and various game information in the RAM 195 in accordance with the execution of the program. The data input circuit 196 generates an INTR2 signal based on a strobe signal transmitted in synchronization with the data transmission timing from the main control board 100A (data transmission circuit 106). The CPU 191 executes an interrupt program starting from a predetermined address at the timing of the INTR2 signal.

  In the slot machine 1 according to this embodiment, the stepping motors 54a to 54c are controlled by the 1-2 phase excitation method. That is, the stepping motors 54a to 54c that rotate once in N steps are controlled in 2N steps, which is a double step. The above-mentioned 504 steps are these 2N steps. Physically, a stepping motor that rotates once with a pulse of N (252) steps is controlled to rotate once with a pulse of 2N (504) steps. .

  The CPU 101 starts the rotation of the reels R1 to R3 when detecting the start operation instruction signal 112. However, when the rotation of the reels R1 to R3 reaches a constant speed after the acceleration period is finished, an INTR signal is output from the clock generation circuit b103. Each time one pulse is input, one pulse of the reel driving signals 154a to 154c is output. That is, when the rotations of the reels R1 to R3 reach a constant speed, the INTR signal and the reel drive signals 154a to 154c have a one-to-one correspondence.

  On the other hand, the INTR signal and the reel drive signals 154a to 154c do not correspond one-to-one during the acceleration period. For example, taking the left reel R1 as an example, when the CPU 101 starts rotation of the left reel R1, for example, when 96 pulses of INTR signal are input first, the reel 101 outputs one pulse of the reel drive signal 154a, and next, INTR. When 5 pulses of signal are input, 1 pulse of reel drive signal 154a is output. When 5 pulses of INTR signal are input after that, 1 pulse of reel drive signal 154a is output, and then 4 pulses of INTR signal are input. The reel drive signal 154a is output by one pulse, and the reel drive signal 154a is output while the interval is gradually narrowed. When the rotation of the left reel R1 reaches a constant speed, the reel drive signal 154a is output by one pulse each time one INTR signal is input while the rotation of the left reel R1 is maintained at a constant speed. .

FIG. 6 is a diagram for explaining the step position detection counter 108a for the left reel R1 provided in the CPU 101. As shown in FIG. The step position detection counter 108a detects the step position of the left reel R1 located on the center line of the middle display position. Here, the step position is described by taking the left reel R1 as an example, and the position on the peripheral surface of the left reel R1 is represented by the number of steps from the reference position, and is represented by the number of steps described in FIG. This is the position on the peripheral surface of the left reel R1. Further, the reference position is a position serving as a reference in the rotation of the reel (variable display of the display row), and is determined for each reel. The reference position of each reel is determined according to the position where the detection plate is attached. In this embodiment, the reference position of each reel is the position indicated as “0 step” in FIG. 4 on the peripheral surface of each reel. become. Note that this reference position is only a reference position in the rotation of the reel, and may be a fixed position, and any step position on the peripheral surface of each reel may be used as the reference position.
Further, the step position detection counter 108a may detect the step position of the left reel R1 located on the center line of the upper display position or the center line of the lower display position instead of the center line of the middle display position.

The step position detection counter 108a counts the number of pulses of the INTR signal supplied from the clock generation circuit b103, and counts when the reel position detection signal 155a output from the reel position detection sensor 55a rises from a low level to a high level. The value MD1 is reset to “0”. As described above, when the rotation of the left reel R1 reaches a constant speed, the INTR signal and the reel drive signal 154a correspond one-to-one, so that the rotation of the left reel R1 is maintained at a constant speed. The count value MD1 of the step position detection counter 108a is “0” to “503”, which is the same as counting the number of pulses of the reel drive signal 154a supplied to the stepping motor 54a.
Therefore, it is possible to specify the step position of the left reel R1 by supplying the reel drive signal 154a instead of the INTR signal to the step position detection counter 108a and counting the number of pulses of the reel drive signal 154a. Although not shown, the CPU 101 has a step position detection counter 108b (count value MD2) for the middle reel R2 and a right reel R3 as well as the step position detection counter 108a for the left reel R1. A step position detection counter 108c (count value MD3) is provided.

  FIG. 7 is a timing chart showing the relationship among the reel position detection signal 155a, the symbol number PN, the reel drive signal 154a, the INTR signal, and the count value MD1. The timing chart shown in the figure is for the case where the rotation of the left reel R1 reaches a constant speed. As shown in the figure, when the reel position detection signal 155a rises from the low level to the high level at time t1, the count value MD1 of the step position detection counter 108a is reset to “0”. When the rotation of the left reel R1 is advanced by 4 steps from the time t1, that is, after the time t1, four pulses are supplied to the stepping motor 54a as the reel drive signal 154a and the count value MD1 is “4”. In the left reel R1, the center of the “orange” symbol of symbol number PN = 1 is located at the center line of the middle display position. That is, when the count value MD1 is “4”, the “orange” symbol (symbol number PN = 1) is displayed in the center at the middle display position (M1).

  Further, since the number of steps for one symbol is “24”, when the left reel R1 is rotated by 28 (4 + 24) steps from time t1 and the count value MD1 becomes “28”, the middle display position ( In M1), the “Plum” symbol with symbol number PN = 2 is displayed in the center, and when the left reel R1 is rotated by 52 steps from the time t1 and the count value MD1 becomes “52”, the middle display position ( In M1), the “orange” symbol of symbol number PN = 3 is displayed in the center. At time t3, the left reel R1 makes one rotation, and the reel position detection signal 155a rises again from the low level to the high level. At this time, the count value MD1 of the step position detection counter 108a is reset to “0” again. Further, when the rotation of the left reel R1 is advanced by 4 steps from the time t3 and the count value MD1 becomes “4”, the “orange” symbol of the symbol number PN = 1 is again at the center of the middle display position (M1). Is displayed.

  As described above, when the rotation of the left reel R1 reaches a constant speed, the count value MD1 (INTR signal) and the reel drive signal 154a correspond one-to-one. Therefore, the CPU 101 can identify the step position of the left reel R1 located on the center line of the middle display position based on the count value MD1, and detect the symbol display state. Similarly to the case of the left reel R1 described above, the CPU 101 detects the display state of the symbol based on the count value MD2 for the middle reel R2, and based on the count value MD3 for the right reel R3. The display state of is detected.

  In addition to the program, the ROM 104 of the main control board 100A stores various data for executing the game. FIG. 8 is a diagram for explaining various data stored in the ROM 104. The data group TBL1 is composed of prize lottery tables TBL10 to TBL13 corresponding to the type of game used in the internal lottery. Data groups TBL2, TBL3, and TBL5 are data groups (stop table, selection table, stop link table, etc.) used for stop control. In addition to the data groups TBL1 to TBL5, the ROM 104 stores an activation timing change table TBL6 (see FIG. 13) described later.

<1-4: Game of slot machine 1>
<1-4-1: Game Method of Slot Machine 1>
First, the flow of game medals will be described.
(1) Insertion bet process A game in the slot machine 1 starts when a player inserts a game medal into the medal slot 10. By this insertion operation, one winning line (L1) is selected and activated when the first game medal is inserted, and two more winning lines (L2, L3) are selected and activated when the second sheet is inserted. When the third piece is inserted, two more winning lines (L4, L5) are selected and activated. In this way, inserting a game medal and activating the winning line is called a betting operation.

(2) Insertion credit processing When the player further inserts game medals, up to 50 game medals are stored in the storage device as credits. When the player inserts more game medals after the number of stored game medals reaches 50, the inserted game medals are returned to the medal tray 40.
(3) Storage bet processing In addition to the above-described betting operation, a game can be started using credits stored in the storage device. In this case, the player operates the bet button 11. The winning line is validated by operating the bet button 11. This operation of the bet button 11 to activate the winning line is called a saving bet operation. The storage bet operation and the insertion bet operation are collectively referred to as a bet operation.

(4) Dividend credit processing When the player operates the start lever 12, rotation of the reels R1 to R3 is started. When the player presses each of the stop buttons 13a to 13c, rotation of the reel corresponding to the pressed stop button is performed. Stop. When all the reels R1 to R3 are stopped, a winning combination is obtained when a predetermined symbol combination is arranged on the activated winning line, and a game value determined for each symbol combination (combination) is given. . When a game medal is awarded as a game value as a payout, the game medal is first stored as a credit in the storage device.
(5) Dividend payout process When the number of stored game medals reaches 50 in the process of giving a dividend, the remaining game medals that have driven the medal payout device are paid out to the medal tray 40.

(6) Automatic betting process If the game results in a re-game prize, the winning line activated in this game will be automatically activated in the next game without any game medals or credits used. To do.
(7) Return payout processing After the winning line is activated by the betting operation, if the player presses the checkout button 14 before operating the start lever 12, the medal paying device is driven to activate the winning line. The game medals for the amount that has been paid out are paid out to the medal tray 40.
(8) Settlement / Payout Processing The game medals are stored as credits in the storage device, and when the player presses the checkout button 14 before operating the start lever 12, the medal payout device is driven and stored. The game medals for the minutes are paid out to the medal tray 40. If the settlement button 14 is pressed after the winning line is activated, the return payout process and the payout process are performed together.

<1-4-2: Prizes and roles of slot machine 1>
FIG. 9 is a diagram for explaining a prize, a combination and a game value to be given in the slot machine 1. In the slot machine 1, a winning combination is obtained when a predetermined combination of symbols is arranged on the activated winning line, and a game value determined for each combination (combination) of symbols is given. The award is a type of game value to be given, and can be broadly divided into a small role award that pays out a predetermined number of game medals for each combination (upper limit: 15) and a normal game to another type of game. It is divided into a start prize to be transferred and a replay prize that allows the next game to be performed without a betting operation.

(1) Start Prize The BB1 prize is a start prize for starting a BB game, and includes a combination of symbols of “red 7-red 7-red 7” (also referred to as “red 7 role”) as a role. The BB2 prize is also a start prize for starting the BB game, and is composed of a combination of symbols of “white 7-white 7-white 7” (also referred to as “white 7 role”) as a role. When a BB1 prize or a BB2 prize is won by an internal lottery during a normal game and a combination corresponding to each prize is established on the winning line, the BB game is started from the next game. The BB game is terminated when the number of game medals acquired during the BB game reaches the specified number or exceeds the specified number in the next payout. In addition, even if the BB1 prize or the BB2 prize is won by the internal lottery during the normal game, if a combination corresponding to each prize is not established on the winning line, the BB1 will continue until the corresponding combination is established and won. It becomes a BB carryover game that carries over the winning of the award or the BB2 prize. When the winning combination is established on the winning line during the BB carryover game, the BB game is started from the next game. The BB1 award and the BB2 award are simply referred to as a BB award.

(2) Small role award The small role A award is a small role award with 10 medals as a dividend, and consists of a combination of “watermelon-watermelon-watermelon” symbols (also called “watermelon role”). The The small role B1 award is a small role award with 15 medals as a payout, and is composed of a combination of symbols of “red 7-bell-bell” (also referred to as “red 7-bell role”). The small role B2 award is a small role award with 15 medals as a payout, and is composed of a combination of symbols of “white 7-bell-bell” (also referred to as “white 7-bell role”). The small role B3 award is a small role award that uses 15 medals as a payout, and includes a combination of symbols of “black bar-bell-bell” (also referred to as “black barbell role”).

  The small role C1 award is a small role award that uses two medals as a payout, and includes a combination of symbols of “red cherry-ANY-ANY” (also referred to as “red cherry role”). ANY indicates that any symbol may be used. This “red cherry role” is awarded when only the “red cherry” symbol of the left reel R1 is aligned on the winning line, and the “red cherry” symbol is displayed at the middle display position (M1) of the left reel R1. In such a case, the winning is made only on the winning line L1, and a payout of two medals can be obtained. Further, when the “red cherry” symbol is displayed at the upper display position (U1) of the left reel R1, a winning is made on the two winning lines L2 and L4, and a payout of four medals can be obtained. Such simultaneous winning on a plurality of winning lines is called “overlapping winning”, and the number of overlapping payouts can be obtained with an upper limit of 15 as the number of payouts according to the duplicated roles. . In addition, when the game type is the RT game, when the small role C1 prize is won, the running RT game is ended, and the normal game is started from the next game. Details of the game type will be described later (see FIG. 10).

  The small role C2 award is a small role award with two medals as a payout, and is composed of a combination of symbols of “white cherry-ANY-ANY” (also referred to as “white cherry role”). In the same way as the above-mentioned “red cherry role”, this “white cherry role” is awarded only by aligning the “white cherry” symbol of the left reel R1 on the winning line, and the “white cherry” symbol is left. When displayed at the middle display position (M1) of the reel R1, only the winning line L1 is won and a payout of two medals can be obtained. In addition, when the “white cherry” symbol is displayed at the upper display position (U1) of the left reel R1, it becomes a double winning and a payout of four medals can be obtained. In addition, when the game type is the RT game and the small role C2 prize is won, the running RT game is ended and the normal game is started from the next game.

  The small role C3 award is a small role award with two medals as a dividend, and is composed of a combination of symbols of “black cherry-ANY-ANY” (also referred to as “black cherry role”). This “black cherry role” is similar to the “red cherry role” described above, and only the “black cherry” symbol of the left reel R1 is aligned on the winning line, and the “black cherry” symbol is left. When displayed at the middle display position (M1) of the reel R1, only the winning line L1 is won and a payout of two medals can be obtained. Further, when the “black cherry” symbol is displayed at the upper display position (U1) of the left reel R1, it is possible to obtain a double winning and to obtain a payout of four medals. In addition, when the game type is the RT game and the prize is awarded to the small role C3 prize, the running RT game is ended and the normal game is started from the next game.

(3) Re-game award The re-game award is an award that gives a game value that allows the next game to be played without a betting operation. A combination of symbols “plum-plum-plum” (“plum role”) Consists of).

(4) 100% Pullable Design As shown in FIG. 4, the “Plum” design is the following “Plum” from one “Plum” design on any of the left reel R1, the middle reel R2, and the right reel R3. The interval between symbols up to symbols is within 4 symbols (4 frames). In the “bell” symbol, in the middle reel R2 and the right reel R3, the interval between a certain “bell” symbol and the next “bell” symbol is within 4 symbols (4 frames). In the slot machine 1, the symbols constituting the prize can be drawn up to four frames on the winning line and stopped by the reel stop control described later. Therefore, the “Plum” symbol and the “Bell” symbol can be stopped by drawing the symbol on the winning line, no matter what timing the player operates the stop buttons 13a to 13c. Such a “plum” symbol and a “bell” symbol are referred to as 100% retractable symbols. In addition, the “plum role” in which all the three symbols constituting the prize are 100% drawable symbols is used in the game where only the award is won. Even if you operate, be sure to win. Prizes composed of such roles are called prizes that can be awarded 100%.

  In the slot machine 1, the type of award won in the internal lottery is managed by a winning flag. A winning flag is prepared for each of the ten prizes shown in FIG. For example, the value of the winning flag for the small role C1 award is set to “1” when the small role C1 award (red cherry award) is won in the internal lottery. Further, the value of the winning flag for the small role C2 award is set to “1” when the small role C2 award (white cherry award) is won in the internal lottery. The value of the winning flag for the small role C3 prize is set to “1” when the small role C3 prize (black cherry prize) is won in the internal lottery. Further, if all the 10 winning flags have a value of “0”, it means that the result of the internal lottery is lost.

<1-4-3: Types of games played in slot machine 1>
FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing the types of games played in the slot machine 1.
(1) Normal game A game that uses a prize lottery table (TBL10) for a normal game as a lottery condition for performing an internal lottery.
Note that, when the CPU 101 wins the small role C1 prize, the small role C2 prize, or the small role C3 prize in the internal lottery during the normal game, the lottery information indicating the type of the winning prize is transmitted to the display control board 100B. To do. When the CPU 191 of the display control board 100B receives the lottery information, the CPU 191 displays information indicating the selected prize type on the liquid crystal display 30. That is, in the normal game, when one of the small role C1 prize, the small role C2 prize, and the small role C3 prize is won, the type of the winning prize is displayed on the liquid crystal display 30 and is notified to the player.

(2) BB game As shown in FIG. 10 (A), when the BB1 prize is won by the internal lottery during the execution of the base game, and the BB1 role (red 7 role) is established and won, the BB game starts from the next game. Is done. Similarly, when the BB2 prize is won by an internal lottery during the execution of the base game and the BB2 role (white 7 role) is established and won, the BB game is started from the next game. The BB game is an award lottery table that does not draw the BB1 award and the BB2 award and has a high probability of drawing a small role award when compared with the award lottery table for a normal game as a lottery condition for performing an internal lottery. This is a game using (TBL12).

(3) BB carryover game As shown in FIG. 10 (B), even if the BB1 prize or the BB2 prize is won by the internal lottery during the execution of the normal game, if the BB1 or BB2 prize is not established, the next game or later will be won. Until then, it becomes a BB carryover game in which the winning flag of the BB1 prize or the BB2 prize is carried over. The BB carryover game is a game that uses a prize lottery table (TBL11) that does not draw the BB1 prize and the BB2 prize as a lottery condition for performing the internal lottery when compared with the prize lottery table for the normal game. As shown in FIG. 10C, when the BB 1 or BB2 role is established in the BB carryover game and wins, the BB game is started from the next game.

(4) End of the BB game As shown in FIG. 10D, when the number of game medals acquired during the BB game reaches the specified number or exceeds the specified number in the next payout, the BB game ends. Transition to the RT game from the next game. Since the RT game is classified into an AT state and a non-AT state, they are referred to as “RT game AT state” and “RT game non-AT state”, respectively. The RT game AT state starts after the BB game ends.

(5) RT game AT state From the next game after the end of the BB game, the RT game AT state is set. The RT game is a game that uses a prize lottery table (TBL13) having a high replay prize lottery probability as a lottery condition for performing an internal lottery when compared with a prize lottery table for a normal game. In addition, the AT state means that in each game until a predetermined number of games elapses, when one of the small role prizes is won by internal lottery, information indicating the type of the selected small role prize is liquid crystal This is a state of displaying on the display 30 and notifying the player. In other words, in the AT state, the player can know the type of the small role prize won in the internal lottery. Note that the number of games in which the AT state can be continued is, for example, 50 games, 100 games, 300 games, and the like.

(6) End of RT game AT state As shown in FIG. 10D, when the BB1 prize is won by internal lottery during execution of the RT game AT state, and the BB1 role is established and won, the RT game AT state is ended. Then, the BB game is started from the next game. Similarly, when the RT game AT state is executed, the BB2 prize is won by internal lottery, and when the BB2 role is established and won, the RT game AT state is ended and the BB game is started from the next game.
As shown in FIG. 10E, even if the BB1 prize or the BB2 prize is won in the internal lottery during the execution of the RT game AT state, if the BB1 prize or the BB2 prize is not established, the next game or later is won. It becomes a BB carryover game that carries over the winning flag of the BB1 prize or the BB2 prize.
Further, as shown in FIG. 10F, when the predetermined number of games has elapsed during execution of the RT game AT state, the state shifts from the AT state to the non-AT state while continuing the RT game.
As shown in FIG. 10G, when the RT game AT state is executed, if one of the small role C1 prize, the small role C2 prize, or the small role C3 prize is won, the RT game AT state is The game ends and the normal game starts from the next game.

(7) RT game non-AT state The RT game non-AT state is similar to the RT game AT state, as a lottery condition for performing an internal lottery, when compared with a normal game prize lottery table. It is a game using the prize lottery table (TBL13) with a high lottery probability. Basically, the RT game non-AT state is that the RT game AT is not displayed on the liquid crystal display 30 even if one of the small role prizes is won in the internal lottery. Although different from the state, in the slot machine 1 according to the present embodiment, the small role C prize is exceptionally notified even in the RT game non-AT state. That is, the player can know whether or not the small role C prize has been won and its type even in the non-AT game state.

(8) End of RT game non-AT state As shown in FIG. 10 (H), when the BB1 prize is won by internal lottery during execution of the RT game non-AT state, and the BB1 role is established and won, the RT game non-AT The state ends and the BB game starts from the next game. Similarly, when the RT game non-AT state is executed, the BB2 prize is won by internal lottery, and when the BB2 role is established and won, the RT game non-AT state is terminated and the BB game is started from the next game.
In addition, as shown in FIG. 10 (K), even if the BB1 prize or the BB2 prize is won by the internal lottery during execution of the RT game non-AT state, if the BB1 prize or the BB2 prize is not established, the next game or later will be won. It becomes a BB carryover game that carries the winning flag of the BB1 prize or BB2 prize until.
In addition, as shown in FIG. 10 (L), when a predetermined number of games have elapsed during execution of the RT game non-AT state, the RT game non-AT state is terminated and the normal game is started from the next game. To do. The number of games in which the RT game non-AT state can be continued is preferably larger than the number of games in which the RT game AT state can be continued, for example, 1000 games and 3000 games.
In addition, when the RT game non-AT state is executed, if any of the small role C1 prize, the small role C2 prize, or the small role C3 prize is won, the RT game non-AT state is ended, and the normal game is started from the next game. Is started.

  In the present specification, the simple description “RT game” includes both “RT game AT state” and “RT game non-AT state”.

  In the slot machine 1, the game type is managed by the game type information. For example, bit 0 of the game type information is used as a BB game flag, and the value of this bit 0 is set to “1” when the BB1 role or BB2 role is established and won, and the number of game medals acquired during the BB game is Cleared to “0” when the specified number is reached or exceeds the specified number in the next payout. Also, bit 1 of the game type information is used as a BB carryover game flag, and the value of bit 1 is “1” when the BB1 prize or BB2 prize is won in the internal lottery but the BB1 prize or BB2 prize is not established. If the BB1 role or the BB2 role is established and won in the BB carryover game, it is cleared to “0”.

Also, bit 2 of the game type information is an RT game flag, and bit 3 is an AT state flag. Both the value of bit 2 and bit 3 are set to “1” at the start of the RT game AT state, and bit 2 is maintained at “1” when the RT game transitions from the AT state to the non-AT state. Only 3 is cleared to “0”. Then, bit 2 is cleared to “0” at the end of the RT game non-AT state. When the RT game AT state is completed at the same time, both the values of bit 2 and bit 3 are reset to “0”. If all the values of bit 0 to bit 3 of the game type information are “0”, it means that the game type is a normal game.
In addition, the CPU 101 manages game types such as a normal game, a BB game, a BB carryover game, an RT game AT state, an RT game non-AT state, and the like based on the game type information, and manages a transition between these games. Functions as a management means.

<1-5: Timing for enabling the stop operation>
When the player operates the start lever 12, the reels R1 to R3 begin to rotate, and after a predetermined acceleration period (for example, 22 steps), the rotation of all the reels R1 to R3 reaches a constant speed, and then the stop buttons 13a to 13c. Is enabled. That is, the operation of the stop buttons 13a to 13c is invalidated during the acceleration period, and the reels R1 to R3 are not stopped even if the stop buttons 13a to 13c are pressed during the acceleration period. In addition, a predetermined deceleration period (for example, 4 steps) is required from when the stop operation is received to when the rotation of the reel is finished, even when the rotation of the reel is immediately stopped according to the stop operation.

  In the slot machine 1 according to the present embodiment, a prize for winning a game medal can be obtained when winning either the small role C1 prize, the small role C2 prize, or the small role C3 prize in the base game. The timing for enabling the stop operation is determined based on the step position of the left reel R1 (specific display row) so that it can be performed. On the other hand, in the RT game, if one of the small role C1 prize, the small role C2 prize, and the small role C3 prize is won, the RT game is ended, which is disadvantageous for the player. For this reason, if one of the small role C1 prize, the small role C2 prize, and the small role C3 prize is won in the RT game, the left reel R1 is set so as not to win the winning prize, that is, to miss the winning prize. The timing for validating the stop operation is determined based on the step position of the (specific display column). Further, the remaining cases except for the above two cases are regarded as normal times, and in normal times, the stop operation is validated when the reel position detection signal 155a is detected after the end of the acceleration period.

  Since the small role C1 prize, the small role C2 prize, and the small role C3 prize are the cherry prizes, it is possible to determine whether or not the winning combination is based on the symbol of the left reel R1. For this reason, for example, if the small game C1 prize (red cherry prize) is won in the base game, the “red cherry” symbol on the left reel R1 is stopped at a timing at which it can be stopped on the winning line. What is necessary is just to validate operation of button 13a-13c. If the red cherry prize is won in the RT game, the operation of the stop buttons 13a to 13c may be validated at a timing at which the “red cherry” symbol cannot be drawn on the winning line in the left reel R1.

FIG. 11 is a diagram for explaining a retractable range in which the “red cherry” symbol can be pulled into the display position and stopped in the left reel R1.
As described above, the rotation of the left reel R1 is controlled based on the reel position detection signal 155a detected every rotation. In addition, 21 symbols are arranged at equal intervals on the left reel R1, and are driven by a stepping motor 54a that rotates once by a pulse of 504 steps. For this reason, every time a pulse of 24 steps is detected, the symbol displayed at the display position is switched. Further, when the rotation of the left reel R1 is advanced by 4 steps from the timing at which the reel position detection signal 155a is detected (hereinafter referred to as “reference timing”), the center of the symbol of symbol number PN = 1 is the center of the middle display position. It is set so as to be positioned on the line, and a deceleration period of 4 steps is required to stop the rotation of the reel. Therefore, when the operation of the left stop button 13a is accepted at the reference timing and the rotation of the left reel R1 is immediately stopped, the center of the symbol with the symbol number PN = 1 is positioned at the center line of the middle display position.

  In this case, if the 24 × (Y−1) step pulse from the reference timing is detected and stopped immediately, the center of the symbol number PN = Y (Y = 1 to 21) is the center of the middle display position. Will be in line. Further, since one symbol has 24 steps, the range of the number of steps at which the symbol of symbol number Y can be displayed at the middle display position is 24 × (Y−1) −23 to 24 × (Y−1) ) Therefore, in the case of the “red cherry” symbol of symbol number PN = 11, the left reel R1 is 217 to 240 steps (24 × (11-1) −23 to (24 × (11−1))) from the reference timing. When the left stop button 13a is operated and stopped immediately in the range where the rotation is advanced, it is displayed at the middle display position.

However, in the slot machine, not only the reel rotation is stopped immediately in response to the stop operation, but if any prize is won in the internal lottery, the symbol constituting the winning prize is Is within the range of 4 frames from the stop timing, it is allowed to advance the stop position of the reel. Further, as shown in FIG. 4, only one “red cherry” symbol is arranged on the left reel R1. Therefore, the range in which the “red cherry” symbol can be displayed at the middle display position when the small role C1 prize (red cherry prize) is won in the internal lottery is 217 to 240 steps from the reference timing on the left reel R1. This is not only the range in which the rotation of the left reel R1 is advanced, but also the range in which the rotation of the left reel R1 is advanced by 96 steps before that corresponding to 4 frames, that is, 121 to 240 steps from the reference timing.
In other words, if the red cherry prize is won in the internal lottery and the red cherry prize is won, the CPU 101 detects the reel position detection signal 155a after the acceleration period, and then the step position detection counter 108a. It is only necessary to validate at least the operation of the stop button 13a at a timing within the range where the count value MD1 is “121” to “240”.

  However, even if the stop operation is enabled at the timing when the count value MD1 becomes “240”, for example, this is just the timing at which the “red cherry” symbol can be displayed at the middle display position on the left reel R1. Immediately after that, the “red cherry” symbol cannot be displayed at the middle display position (at the timing when the count value MD1 becomes “241”, the “orange” symbol of symbol number PN = 12 is displayed at the middle display position. ) Therefore, it is preferable to validate the stop operation at the earliest possible stage within the range where the count value MD1 is “121” to “240”. For example, if the stop operation is validated at the timing when the count value MD1 becomes “121”, the stop operation that can display the “red cherry” symbol at the middle display position by using the maximum number of frames that can be pulled in. The longest reception period can be taken. In this way, not only immediately after the stop operation is validated but also when the stop operation is accepted with a slight delay, the “red cherry” symbol can be displayed at the middle display position.

The numerical values “121 to 240” of the drawable range shown in FIG. 11 are examples when the winning line is only the winning line L1 (middle display position). The drawable range varies depending on various factors such as the number of winning lines, the arrangement of symbols, the number of frames that can be drawn, and the number of steps necessary to rotate the reel once.
For example, when a plurality of winning lines (upper display position, middle display position, lower display position) are set as shown in the lower right of FIG. 11, the highest winning line (upper display position) is set. set the range retraction with respect to the display position), you are preferable to determine the timing to activate the stop operation. This is because the delay in the stop operation of the player can be covered because the middle display position and the lower display position are below the upper display position.

FIG. 12 is a diagram for explaining a non-retractable range in which the “red cherry” symbol cannot be pulled into the display position in the left reel R1.
As described above, when the red cherry prize is won in the internal lottery, the range in which the “red cherry” symbol can be displayed at the middle display position is the rotation of the left reel R1 by 121 to 240 steps from the reference timing. Range. Therefore, the range (241 → 503 → 0 → 120) in which the rotation of the left reel R1 is advanced by 241 to 120 steps from the reference timing excluding this range is a case where the red cherry prize is won by the internal lottery. However, the “red cherry” symbol cannot be displayed at the middle display position.
In other words, if the red cherry prize is won in the internal lottery and the red cherry prize is not won, the CPU 101 detects the reel position detection signal 155a after the acceleration period, and then the step position detection counter 108a. It is only necessary to validate at least the operation of the stop button 13a at a timing within the range where the count value MD1 is “241” to “120”.

  However, for example, even if the stop operation is enabled at the timing when the count value MD1 becomes “120”, this is just the last timing at which the “red cherry” symbol cannot be displayed at the middle display position in the left reel R1. Immediately thereafter, the “red cherry” symbol is drawn into the middle display position and displayed. Therefore, it is preferable that the stop operation is validated at the earliest possible stage within the range where the count value MD1 is “241” to “120”. For example, if the stop operation is validated at the timing when the count value MD1 becomes “241”, the stop operation reception period in which the “red cherry” symbol cannot be displayed at the middle display position can be maximized. In this way, not only immediately after the stop operation is validated but also when the stop operation is accepted with a slight delay, the “red cherry” symbol can be stopped at a position other than the middle display position.

  Note that the numerical values “241 to 120” of the non-retractable range shown in FIG. 12 are also examples when the winning line is only the winning line L1 (middle display position). The non-retractable range varies depending on various factors such as the number of winning lines, the arrangement of symbols, the number of frames that can be pulled in, and the number of steps required to rotate the reel once.

For example, in the case where only one “red cherry” symbol (symbol number PN = 11) is arranged on the left reel R1, it is as early as possible within the range where the count value MD1 is “241” to “120”. By enabling the stop operation at the stage, it is possible to prevent the “red cherry” symbol after one rotation from being displayed at the middle display position. When a symbol (for example, symbol number PN = 20) is arranged, it is impossible to prevent the “red cherry” symbol of symbol number PN = 20 from being displayed at the middle display position at the timing within the above range. Therefore, the timing for enabling the stop operation is a timing at which the “red cherry” symbol (symbol number PN = 11) after one rotation is not drawn into the middle display position, and another “red cherry”. The timing must be such that the symbol (symbol number PN = 20) is not drawn into the middle display position.
Further, when a plurality of pay lines (upper display position, middle display position, lower display position) are set as shown in the lower right of FIG. 12, for example, the “red cherry” design with the design number PN = 11 The timing when the “red cherry” symbol (symbol number PN = 20) or the “red cherry” symbol after one rotation (symbol number PN = 11) is not drawn into the upper symbol display position after passing the lower symbol display position. It is necessary to.

  Therefore, in such a case, for example, the center of the “red cherry” symbol of symbol number PN = 11 is a position that is four steps earlier than the center line (first specific winning line) at the lower display position for the deceleration period. The center of the next “red cherry” symbol (symbol number PN = 20 or after symbol number PN = 11/1 rotation) can be drawn from the center line (second specific winning line) at the upper display position immediately after passing through It is only necessary to set a range up to the point immediately before passing the previous position by the maximum number of steps as a non-retractable range and validate the stop operation within this range. Of course, also in this case, it is preferable to validate the stop operation at the earliest possible timing within the range.

FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing the data structure of the validation timing change table TBL6 stored in the ROM 104. As shown in FIG.
As shown in the figure, the enabling timing change table TBL6 stores a retractable position P and a non-retractable position Q for each cherry award of the small role C1, a small role C2, and a small role C3. Yes. Here, the retractable position P is a step position where, for example, if the small role C1 prize (red cherry prize), the “red cherry” symbol on the left reel R1 can be drawn on the winning line and stopped. . For example, if the position Q cannot be drawn is the small role C1 award (red cherry award), the step position where the “red cherry” symbol cannot be drawn on the winning line in the left reel R1, that is, the small role C1 award. This is a step position that can be missed.

  In the figure, the parenthesized descriptions in the “Pullable position P” column and the “Pullable position Q” column indicate the drawable range and drawable range when the winning line is only the winning line L1. This is an example (see FIGS. 11 and 12). As described above, the timing for enabling the stop operation so as to win each cherry award and the timing for enabling the stop operation so as not to win each cherry award are determined in advance as the retractable position P and the non-retractable position Q. , Stored in the ROM 104.

<1-6: Operation of Slot Machine 1>
Next, details of the overall operation of the slot machine 1 will be described. When the CPU 101 of the main control board 100A performs an initialization process after turning on the power, the process of the flowchart shown in FIG. 14 is executed.

<Processing of 1-6-1: 1 game>
FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing a process flow of one game.
First, the CPU 101 determines whether or not a bet operation (insert bet operation or storage bet operation) has been performed based on the medal insertion signal 160 or the bet operation instruction signals 111a to 111c (S100). If it is determined that the bet operation has not been performed, the process waits until it is detected that the bet operation has been performed, and proceeds to the next step when it is detected that the bet operation has been performed. Next, the CPU 101 determines whether or not a start lever operation has been performed based on the start operation instruction signal 112 (S101). When it is determined that the start lever operation is not performed, the process waits until the start operation instruction signal 112 is detected. When the start operation instruction signal is detected, the bet operation is prohibited and the process proceeds to the next.

  The CPU 101 sequentially increments every 10 nanoseconds in the range of 0000H to 3FFFH (hereinafter, “H” is added to the numerical value shown in hexadecimal), and makes a round in about 1.6 milliseconds. The counter value is obtained from the input port 107 via the input / output port 107 and is set as a random value (S102). Further, the CPU 101 refers to the game type information and selects a prize lottery table corresponding to the type of the game (S103). Next, using the selected prize lottery table, the CPU 101 determines which numerical range set for each lottery category on the prize lottery table the acquired random number value belongs to, and the prize corresponding to the lottery category The lottery information is set (S104). Further, the CPU 101 displays on the liquid crystal display 30 the presence / absence and type of winning in the case of winning the cherry prize in the normal game or in the RT game, and notifies the player. If the player knows that the player has won the Cherry Prize by this notification, a play is performed in which the left stop button 13a is repeatedly hit.

  The CPU 101 supplies reel drive signals 154a to 154c to drive the stepping motors 54a to 54c sequentially or simultaneously to start rotation of the three reels R1 to R3 (S105). Specifically, each of the reel drive signals 154a to 154c includes a plurality of drive signal lines for exciting a plurality of winding phases, and a pulse signal is supplied to each drive signal line in a predetermined phase pattern to thereby generate the reel R1. ~ R3 rotates.

  When starting the rotation of the reels R1 to R3, the CPU 101 performs a stop operation enabling process (S106). As will be described in detail later, in the stop operation validation process, if any of the cherry prizes (red, white, black) is won in the base game, the stop operation is validated so that the winning cherry prize is won. Change the timing. In addition, when any of the cherry prizes is won in the RT game, the timing for enabling the stop operation is changed so as to miss the won cherry prize. Further, in normal times except for the above two cases, the stop operation is validated at the timing at which the reel position detection signal 155a is detected after the end of the acceleration period.

  The CPU 101 performs a reel stop process for stopping the rotation of each of the reels R1 to R3 (S107). In the reel stop process, it is determined whether or not a stop button operation has been performed based on the stop operation instruction signals 113a to 113c. If there is a stop button operation, based on the stop link table corresponding to the winning prize, The symbol to be stopped is determined by referring to the selection table and the stop table from the symbol position (symbol number PN) on the reel obtained at the timing when the stop button operation is performed. Thereafter, a braking force is applied by all-phase excitation that simultaneously excites all winding phases, and the rotation of the reel is stopped after a deceleration period of 4 steps from the start of all-phase excitation.

  For example, if the result of the internal lottery is lost, the reel stop process delays the reel stop timing even if the player performs a stop operation at the timing when the symbol that constitutes the winning combination has reached the valid winning line. Thus, the symbols that make up the winning combination should not stop on a valid winning line. The same applies to a role corresponding to a prize that was not won in the internal lottery. On the other hand, when a prize that is an internal lottery is won, the player performs a stop operation not only at the timing when the symbols that make up the winning prize are on the valid winning line, but at a slightly earlier timing. However, the pull-in control is performed so that the symbols constituting the winning combination stop on the winning line. The maximum number of frames that can be drawn by this pull-in control is four.

  After all the reels R1 to R3 are stopped, the CPU 101 determines whether or not a winning combination is established on an effective winning line (S108), and when winning, the game value set for each winning combination is determined. Give. The CPU 101 performs a game end determination process, and determines whether the end condition of the BB game is satisfied if the BB game is in progress (S109). Subsequently, the lottery information (winning flag) is cleared (S110). Here, if the winning prize in the game is a start prize (for example, the BB prize) that can be carried over after the next game, the lottery information is cleared only when the prize is won, and the prize is lost without winning. Does not clear the lottery information. On the other hand, if the prize won in the game is a start prize or small part prize that cannot be carried over, the lottery information is cleared regardless of winning or missing. Thereafter, the CPU 101 ends the game after canceling the prohibition of the betting operation.

<1-6-2: Prize lottery table determination process>
FIG. 15A shows a prize lottery table selected in the prize lottery table determination process in step S104.
In executing the internal lottery, the CPU 101 selects the prize lottery table TBL10 for the base game, selects the prize lottery table TBL11 for the BB carryover game, selects the prize lottery table TBL12 for the BB game, and the prize lottery table for the RT game. TBL13 is selected and a lottery is executed based on the selected prize lottery table. Each of the prize lottery tables TBL10 to TBL13 includes a plurality of lottery sections, and a numerical value corresponding to the selection probability selected in the lottery is stored in each of the plurality of lottery sections. In the slot machine 1, a pseudo-random number is generated using a counter circuit that sequentially increments in the range from 0000H to 3FFFH, so the denominator of the fraction indicating the selection probability is “16384”, and each lottery section Stores a numerical value corresponding to the numerator of the selection probability.

  For example, the lottery category 1 is a lottery category corresponding to the BB1 prize. “50” is stored in the lottery category 1 corresponding to the prize lottery table TBL10 selected in the base game, and the lottery category 1 is drawn with a selection probability of “50/16384”. In addition, “0” is stored in the lottery category 1 corresponding to the prize lottery tables TBL11 and TBL12 selected in the BB carryover game and the BB game, and it is excluded from the lottery target. As a result of the internal lottery in the normal game, when the lottery category 1 is selected, the BB1 prize is won, and the CPU 101 sets lottery information (10H) corresponding to the BB1 prize. The lottery category 2 is a lottery category corresponding to the BB2 prize. “50” is stored in the lottery section 2 corresponding to the prize lottery table TBL10 selected in the normal game and the prize lottery table TBL13 selected in the RT game, and the lottery section 2 is selected with the selection probability of “50/16384”. Is done. In addition, “0” is stored in the lottery section 2 corresponding to the prize lottery tables TBL11 and TBL12 selected in the BB carryover game and the BB game, and it is excluded from the lottery target. If the lottery category 2 is selected as a result of the internal lottery in the normal game, the BB2 prize is won, and the CPU 101 sets lottery information (20H) corresponding to the BB2 prize.

  The lottery sections 3 to 6 are lottery sections corresponding to the small role A prize, the small role B1 prize, the small role B2 prize, and the small role B3 prize, respectively. “200” is stored in the lottery section 3 corresponding to the prize lottery tables TBL10 to TBL13, and the lottery section 3 is drawn with a selection probability of “200/16384”. In addition, “565” is stored in the lottery sections 4 to 6, and the lottery sections 4 to 6 are lottery with a selection probability of “565/16384”. When the internal lottery results in the base game, the BB game, and the RT game are selected, and these lottery divisions are selected, the CPU 101 sets prize lottery information (01H to 04H) corresponding to the lottery divisions. In the BB carryover game, the CPU 101 executes the lottery by excluding the BB prize from the lottery object, and the prize won by the internal lottery (the small part A prize, the small part B1 prize, the small part B2 prize, or the small part B3 prize is selected. ) And a carry-over BB award (for example, a BB1 award and a small role A award) are set.

The lottery section 7 is a lottery section corresponding to the small role B1 prize, the small role B2 prize, and the small role B3 prize. “1500” is stored in the lottery section 2 corresponding to the prize lottery table TBL10 selected in the base game, the prize lottery table TBL11 selected in the BB carryover game, and the prize lottery table TBL13 selected in the RT game. 7 is drawn with a selection probability of “1500/16384”. In the BB game, the selection probability corresponding to the lottery category 7 is set to be higher than that in the normal game, and the game becomes easy to win the small role B1 prize, the small role B2 prize, and the small role B3 prize. When the lottery category 7 is selected as a result of the internal lottery in the normal game, the BB game, and the RT game, the CPU 101 wins a plurality of prizes of the small role B1, the small role B2, and the small role B3. The lottery information (09H) corresponding to a plurality of prizes of the role B1 prize, the small role B2 prize, and the small role B3 prize is set.
The execution of the internal lottery so that a plurality of prizes can be won simultaneously by one internal lottery is called “simultaneous lottery”. Also, in the BB carryover game, the BB prize is excluded from the lottery object, the lottery is executed, and the three prizes won in the internal lottery (small B1 prize, small B2 prize and small B3 prize) are carried over. The lottery information indicating the winning of four awards (for example, BB1 prize, small part B1 prize, small part B2 prize and small part B3 prize) is set.

  The lottery sections 8 to 10 are lottery sections respectively corresponding to the small role C1 prize, the small role C2 prize, and the small role C3 prize. “700” is stored in the lottery sections 8 to 10 corresponding to the prize lottery tables TBL10 to TBL13, and the lottery sections 8 to 10 are lottery with a selection probability of “700/16384”. When these lottery sections are selected as a result of internal lottery in the normal game, BB game, and RT game, the CPU 101 sets prize lottery information (05H to 07H) corresponding to the lottery section. In the BB carryover game, the CPU 101 executes the lottery by excluding the BB prize from the lottery target, and carries it over with the prize (any one of the small role C1, the small role C2 or the small role C3 award) won in the internal lottery. The lottery information indicating the winning of two prizes (for example, the BB1 prize and the small role C1 prize) is set.

The lottery section 11 is a lottery section corresponding to the re-game prize. “2250” is stored in the lottery section 11 corresponding to the prize lottery table TBL10 selected in the base game and the prize lottery table TBL11 selected in the BB carryover game, and the lottery section 11 has a selection probability of “2250/16384”. A lottery will be held. On the other hand, “10788” is stored in the lottery section 11 corresponding to the prize lottery table TBL13 selected in the RT game. That is, the lottery section 11 is drawn with a selection probability of “10788/16384” as a higher probability than the prize lottery table TBL10 selected in the base game and the prize lottery table TBL11 selected in the BB carryover game. When the lottery section 11 is selected as a result of the internal lottery in the normal game, the BB game, and the RT game, the CPU 101 sets lottery information (08H) corresponding to the lottery section. In the BB carryover game, the CPU 101 executes the lottery by excluding the BB prize from the lottery object, and the two prizes (for example, the BB1 prize and the re-winning prize) including the prize (replay prize) won in the internal lottery and the carry-over BB prize. Set lottery information indicating winning of (Game Award).
Note that “0” is stored in the lottery section 11 corresponding to the prize lottery table TBL12 selected in the BB game, and the lottery section 11 is excluded from the lottery targets.

The lottery section 12 is a lottery section corresponding to a loss. “12734” is stored in the lottery section 12 corresponding to the prize lottery table TBL10 selected in the base game, and the lottery section 12 is drawn with a selection probability of “12734/16384”. In addition, since “0” is stored in the lottery section 12 corresponding to the prize lottery table TBL11 selected in the BB carryover game, in the BB carryover game, the BB prize is excluded from the lottery object and the lottery is executed. For this reason, since the lottery classification of the loss is increased accordingly, “12834” is stored, and the loser is lottery with a selection probability of “12834/16384”. “389” is stored in the lottery section 12 corresponding to the prize lottery table TBL12 selected in the BB game, and the lottery section 12 is drawn with a selection probability of “389/16384”. In the lottery section 12 corresponding to the prize lottery table TBL13 selected in the RT game, the re-game prize is won with a higher probability than the normal game in the RT game. And a lottery with a selection probability of “1/16384”. When the lottery section 12 is selected as a result of the internal lottery in the normal game, the BB game, and the RT game, the CPU 101 sets lottery information (00H) of a prize (losing) corresponding to the lottery section. In the BB carryover game, the CPU 101 executes the lottery by excluding the BB prize from the lottery object, and sets lottery information indicating the lost BB prize (for example, the BB1 prize and the lost).
In the present embodiment, 12 is provided as the lottery category corresponding to the lose, but if the lottery category is not set to 12 and does not fall within any lottery category of the lottery categories 1 to 11 in the internal lottery, the lottery is determined. It is good also as what produces | generates.

FIG. 15B is a diagram for explaining lottery information generated as a result of the internal lottery.
In the slot machine 1, one of a plurality of lottery categories is selected by internal lottery, and lottery information corresponding to one or more prizes corresponding to the selected lottery category is set. Of the data indicated by the lottery information, 00H to 08H are a small role A prize, a small role B1 award, a small role B2 award, a small role B3 award, a small role C1 award, a small role C2 award, a small role C3 award, and a replay. This data indicates that only one of the prizes is won. Further, 09H is data indicating that the small role B1 prize, the small role B2 prize and the small role B3 prize are won simultaneously. 00H is data indicating that neither the lose nor the BB prize has been carried over. Further, 10H is data indicating that only the BB1 prize is won, and 20H is data indicating that only the BB2 prize is won.

On the other hand, 11H to 18H are each selected as either a small role A prize, a small role B1 award, a small role B2 award, a small role B3 award, a small role C1 award, a small role C2 award, a small role C3 or a replay award. The BB1 award is carried over. In addition, 21H to 28H are each selected as either a small role A prize, a small role B1 award, a small role B2 award, a small role B3 award, a small role C1 award, a small role C2 award, a small role C3 or a replay award. And the BB2 award is carried over. 19H is data indicating that the small role B1 award, the small role B2 award and the small role B3 award are won simultaneously and the BB1 award is carried over. 29H is data indicating that the small role B1 award, the small role B2 award and the small role B3 award are won simultaneously and the BB2 award is carried over.
In FIG. 15A, the lottery information generated when a lottery category corresponding to each prize lottery table is selected is shown in parentheses.

<1-6-3: Stop operation validation process>
FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing the content of the stop operation validation process. This stop operation enabling process is executed when the process proceeds to step S106 of the flowchart shown in FIG.
The CPU 101 determines whether or not the acceleration period has ended. If it is determined that the acceleration period has not ended, the CPU 101 waits until it detects that the acceleration period has ended (S200). The slot machine 1 according to the present embodiment causes the reels R1 to R3 to reach a constant speed through an acceleration period of 22 steps. Further, the CPU 101 counts the number of pulses of the reel drive signals 154a to 154c supplied to the stepping motors 54a to 54c for each stepping motor, and the count value from the point when the rotation of the reels R1 to R3 is started is “22”. It is determined that the acceleration period has ended.

  For example, the elapsed time from the start of the rotation of the reels R1 to R3 is counted by counting the number of pulses of the INTR signal, and it is determined that the acceleration period has ended when the measured time reaches a predetermined time. May be. Further, it may be determined that the acceleration period has ended when the pulse widths of the reel drive signals 154a to 154c become constant, or the actual rotation speed of each of the reels R1 to R3 is detected using a speed sensor. The acceleration period may be determined to have ended when the detected value reaches a constant speed.

If the CPU 101 determines that the acceleration period has ended, it proceeds to the next, and determines whether or not the reference position of the left reel R1 has passed based on the reel position detection signal 155a (S201). If it is determined that it has not passed, it waits until the reel position detection signal 155a is detected. Note that the count value MD1 of the step position detection counter 108a is reset to “0” at the timing when the reel position detection signal 155a is detected.
When the acceleration period ends (S201: YES) and the reel position detection signal 155a is detected (S202: YES), the count value MD1 of the step position detection counter 108a coincides with the step position of the left reel R1. Therefore, the CPU 101 can identify the step position of the left reel R1 located on the center line of the middle display position based on the count value MD1, and can detect the symbol display state.

  When the CPU 101 detects the passage of the reference position, the CPU 101 proceeds to the next, and determines whether or not one of the cherry awards (red, white, black) is won based on the value of the winning flag (S202). Here, when the value of any one of the winning flag for the red cherry award, the winning flag for the white cherry award, and the winning flag for the black cherry award is “1”, the CPU 101 has won the cherry award. Determine and proceed to step S203. Further, when the values of the above three winning flags are all “0”, the CPU 101 determines that the cherry prize is not won and proceeds to step S207.

  Next, the CPU 101 determines whether the game is a normal game or an RT game (S203). Here, the CPU 101 determines that the game is a normal game when the values of bit 0 to bit 3 of the game type information are all “0”, and proceeds to step S204. If bit 2 of the game type information is “1”, CPU 101 determines that the game is an RT game and proceeds to step S204. On the other hand, if it is neither a normal game nor an RT game, the process proceeds to step S207. That is, even if the cherry prize is won, in the case of a BB game or a BB carryover game, the process proceeds to step S207.

  The CPU 101 counts the number of pulses of the reel position detection signal 155a, and waits until the number of passes through the reference position reaches 20 (S204). That is, it waits for the left reel R1 to rotate 20 times. Note that the processing in step S204 is optional and may not be performed. The purpose of the process of step S204 is to delay the timing for enabling the stop operation by 20 revolutions when the cherry prize is won in the normal game and the cherry prize is won in the RT game. Also, a long period during which the operations of the stop buttons 13a to 13c are not accepted is provided, and an effect that makes it appear as if the stop button is broken (broken effect) is given to notify the player that the cherry prize has been won. That is. Therefore, when performing the process of step S204, the notification by the liquid crystal display 30 can be eliminated.

  The CPU 101 refers to the activation timing change table TBL6 (see FIG. 13), and reads the retractable position P or the unretractable position Q according to the type of the winning cherry prize and the type of game (S205). For example, when the red cherry prize is won in the base game, the drawable position P1 = 121 is read from the validation timing change table TBL6 in order to win the red cherry prize. Further, when the red cherry prize is won in the RT game, the non-retractable position Q1 = 241 is read from the validation timing change table TBL6 so as not to win the red cherry prize.

  The CPU 101 determines whether or not the count value MD1 of the step position detection counter 108a has reached the retractable position P or the retractable position Q read in step S205 (S206). For example, when the retractable position P1 = 121 is read in step S205, the CPU 101 waits until the count value MD1 becomes “121”, and proceeds to the next when the count value MD1 becomes “121”. Further, when reading the unretractable position Q1 = 241 in step S205, the CPU 101 waits until the count value MD1 becomes “241”, and proceeds to the next when the count value MD1 becomes “241”.

  The CPU 101 enables the operations of all the stop buttons 13a to 13c all at once, and enables the reception of the stop operation instruction signals 113a to 113c (S207). Further, the CPU 101 turns on the LEDs built in the stop buttons 13a to 13c in order to notify that the stop operation has been validated, and then terminates the stop operation validation process and performs step S107 of the flowchart shown in FIG. Return to.

  By this stop operation enabling process, the CPU 101 first detects the reel position detection signal 155a after the end of the acceleration period, except in the case where the cherry prize is won in the normal game and the case where the cherry prize is won in the RT game. The acceptance of the stop operation is enabled at the timing when is detected.

  On the other hand, when the red cherry prize is won in the base game, the reel position detection signal of the 21st pulse is detected when a total of 21 pulses of the reel position detection signal 155a are detected including the first one after the end of the acceleration period. With reference to the time when 155a rises to the high level, the acceptance of the stop operation is validated at the timing when the rotation of the left reel R1 is advanced by 121 steps from there. Here, as shown in FIGS. 11 and 13, the pullable range of the “red cherry” symbol in the left reel R <b> 1 is “121 to 240”. Further, since the player knows that the red cherry award has been won by the notification by the liquid crystal display 30 or the notification by the broken effect, the player has repeatedly hit the left stop button 13a from the stage before the stop operation is validated. Therefore, immediately after the stop operation is validated, the stop operation instruction signal 113a is received and the reel stop process for the left reel R1 is performed. For this reason, the “red cherry” symbol is drawn on the winning line by the pull-in control and stops.

  In addition, when the red cherry prize is won in the RT game, when the reel position detection signal 155a is detected for a total of 21 pulses including the first one after the end of the acceleration period, the reel position detection signal 155a of the 21st pulse is obtained. Acceptance of stop operation is validated at the timing when the rotation of the left reel R1 is advanced by 241 steps from the time when it rises to the high level. Here, as shown in FIG. 12 and FIG. 13, the “red cherry” symbols in the left reel R1 cannot be drawn in the range “241 to 120”. Further, since the player knows that the red cherry award has been won by the notification by the liquid crystal display 30 or the notification by the broken effect, the player has repeatedly hit the left stop button 13a from the stage before the stop operation is validated. Therefore, immediately after the stop operation is validated, the stop operation instruction signal 113a is received and the reel stop process for the left reel R1 is performed. For this reason, the “red cherry” symbol cannot be drawn on the winning line in the reel stop process. Therefore, the “red cherry” symbol stops other than on the winning line.

As described above, according to the present embodiment, when the player wins the red cherry award in the base game, the player simply hits the left stop button 13a without pressing the reel, so that the player can win the red cherry award. The rotation of R1 to R3 can be stopped. Further, even if the player wins the Red Cherry Award in the RT game, the player does not need to push to avoid winning the Red Cherry Award. Thus, the rotation of the reels R1 to R3 can be stopped.
In addition, a continuous hitting operation is required instead of the eye pressing operation, and a new game characteristic that has not been possible in the past can be provided.
Further, after the acceleration period ends, the stop operation is validated with reference to the timing at which the reel position detection signal 155a is detected, so that even if the stepping motor 54a is stepped out during the acceleration period, The acceptance of the stop operation can be surely validated at the intended step position when the Cherry Prize is won in the game or RT game.

  Note that it is not necessary to notify which type of cherry award is won among the three types of cherry awards as in this embodiment. In other words, when one of the cherry awards is won, even if the configuration is such that only the fact that the cherry award has been won is not notified to the type, the player can perform a continuous hitting operation to perform the normal game. In this case, the rotation of the reels R1 to R3 can be stopped so that the winning cherry prize can be won, and in the case of the RT game, the reels R1 to R3 can be rotated so as not to win the winning cherry prize. Can be stopped.

<2: Second Embodiment>
The slot machine according to the present embodiment is a modification of the stop operation enabling process (see FIG. 14) of the first embodiment as shown in FIG. In addition, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected to the same component as 1st Embodiment, and description is abbreviate | omitted.

FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing the content of the stop operation enabling process according to the second embodiment. This stop operation enabling process is executed when the process proceeds to step S106 in the flowchart shown in FIG. 14, similarly to the stop operation enabling process described in the first embodiment. The stop operation enabling process shown in the figure is different from the stop operation enabling process of the first embodiment (see FIG. 14) because the process of determining the passage of the reference position after the acceleration period (S301) (S303). ), A process of determining the winning of the cherry prize (S301) and a process of determining the type of game (S302) are added, and the process of step S308 is added.
When the control flow is changed in this way, the timing at which the stop operation is validated at the normal time can be changed to the timing at which the rotation of the left reel R1 is advanced by 504 steps (one rotation) after the end of the acceleration period. Note that the number of steps to advance the rotation of the left reel R1 in step S308 is not limited to 504 steps, and can be changed to any number of steps.

  That is, in the stop operation enabling process of the first embodiment, the timing for enabling the stop operation in the normal time is the timing at which the reel position detection signal 155a is detected, so the left reel when the stop operation is enabled The step position of R1 is always the reference position. On the other hand, in the stop operation enabling process shown in FIG. 17, the timing for enabling the stop operation in the normal time is the time when the rotation of the left reel R1 is advanced by a predetermined number of steps after the end of the acceleration period. Yes. Here, since the step position of each reel when the rotation of the reels R1 to R3 is stopped in the previous game is randomized by the reel stop process, the stop operation is enabled after the rotation of the reels R1 to R3 is started. Even if the period until this is fixed, the step position of each reel when the stop operation is validated in the normal time is random for each game.

As described above, the slot machine according to the present embodiment has the same effects as those of the first embodiment, and can randomize the timing for enabling the stop operation in the normal time.
In addition, in the stop operation enabling process shown in FIG. 17, the option of step S304 is eliminated, and the number of steps to advance the rotation of the left reel R1 is set to “1008” in step S308. In the case of the RT game winning the Cherry Prize, the timing for enabling the stop operation is earlier than in the normal case. In this way, if the rotation of the reels R1 to R3 has reached a certain speed, the stopping operation in the case of the normal game won in the cherry prize or the RT game won in the cherry prize than in the normal time You may make it the timing which validates.

<3: Third embodiment>
Next, a third embodiment will be described. In addition, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected to the same component as 1st Embodiment, and description is abbreviate | omitted.
The slot machine according to the present embodiment includes an validation counter. This activation counter is used when the cherry prize is won in the normal game and when the cherry prize is won in the RT game, and determines the timing for activating the stop operation. Further, the CPU 101 decrements (decrements) the value set in the activation counter every time one pulse of the reel drive signal 154a is output to the stepping motor 54a. The slot machine according to the present embodiment has a counter use flag. This counter use flag determines whether or not to determine the timing for activating the stop operation using the activation counter. When the cherry award is won in the normal game and the cherry award is won in the RT game In this case, “1” is set, and “0” is set otherwise.

FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing a process flow of one game according to the present embodiment. In the flowchart shown in the figure, the description of the steps for performing the same processing as in the flowchart of FIG. 14 described in the first embodiment will be simplified as appropriate.
After the betting operation (S400), the CPU 101 acquires a random number value when the start lever operation is performed (S401) (S402). Further, the CPU 101 selects a prize lottery table corresponding to the type of the game (S403), determines which numerical range set for each lottery category on the prize lottery table the acquired random number value belongs to, Prize lottery information corresponding to the lottery classification is set (S404). Further, the CPU 101 displays the presence / absence and type of winning in the liquid crystal display 30 to notify the player when the cherry prize is won in the normal game or in the RT game.

Next, the CPU 101 performs stop operation validation pre-processing (S405).
FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing the contents of the stop operation validation pre-processing. In the flowchart shown in the figure, the description of the steps for performing the same process as the stop operation enabling process (see FIG. 16) described in the first embodiment will be simplified as appropriate.
First, as in the process of step S202, the CPU 101 determines whether or not any of the cherry awards (red, white, black) has been won based on the value of the winning flag (S500). Further, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the game is a normal game or an RT game, similarly to the process of step S203 (S501). As a result, the CPU 101 sets the value of the counter use flag to “1” and proceeds to the next when the cherry prize is won in the normal game and the cherry prize is won in the RT game (S502). Further, the CPU 101 sets the value of the counter use flag to “0” in the normal time except the above two cases (S503), finishes the stop operation validation pre-processing, and is shown in FIG. The process returns to step S406 of the flowchart.

  The CPU 101 reads out the stop step position of the left reel R1 from the RAM 105 (S504). This stop step position is the step position of the left reel R1 located on the center line of the middle display position after the rotation of the reels R1 to R3 has been stopped in the previous game. In step S410 of the flowchart shown in FIG. Remembered. If the rotation of the reels R1 to R3 is not started, this stop step position is also the step position of the left reel R1 positioned on the center line of the middle display position at the present stage. For example, when the “Plum” symbol of symbol number PN = 6 is displayed at the middle display position in the left reel R1, “124” is read from the RAM 105 as the stop step position.

  Similar to the processing in step S205, the CPU 101 refers to the activation timing change table TBL6 (see FIG. 13), and specifies the retractable position P or the unretractable position Q according to the type of the winning cherry prize and the type of game. It reads out as a step position (S505). For example, when the white cherry prize is won in the base game, the drawable position P2 = 289 is read from the validation timing change table TBL6 in order to win the white cherry prize. In addition, when the white cherry prize is won in the RT game, the non-retractable position Q2 = 409 is read from the validation timing change table TBL6 so as not to win the white cherry prize.

The CPU 101 calculates a set value Z to be set in the validation counter based on (Equation 1) (S506).
Z = (the shortest number of steps to proceed from the stop step position to the specific step position) + m (natural number) × number of steps for one rotation (Expression 1)
Note that the slot machine according to the present embodiment has an acceleration period of 22 steps, similar to the slot machine of the first embodiment. Therefore, after starting the rotation of the reels R1 to R3, when the number of pulses of the reel drive signal 154a supplied to the stepping motor 54a is counted as 504 which is the number of steps for at least one rotation, the acceleration period ends. Should be. Therefore, in (Formula 1), the value of m may be “1” or more.

Here, the value of m is set to “2”, and the “Plum” symbol of symbol number PN = 6 is displayed at the middle display position on the left reel R1 (stop step position = 124). In the case of winning, the set value Z1 for winning the white cherry prize is, for example, “1173”.
Z1 = (289-124) + 2 × 504 = 1173 steps In addition, the value of m is “2”, and the “Plum” symbol of symbol number PN = 6 is displayed at the middle display position on the left reel R1 (stop step). If the white cherry prize is won in the RT game, the set value Z2 for preventing the white cherry prize from being won is, for example, “1293”.
Z2 = (409-124) + 2 × 504 = 1293 steps

  Next, the CPU 101 sets the setting value Z calculated in step S506 in the validation counter (S507), ends the stop operation validation pre-processing, and returns to step S406 of the flowchart shown in FIG.

In step S406 of the flowchart shown in FIG. 18, the CPU 101 supplies reel drive signals 154a to 154c to drive the stepping motors 54a to 54c sequentially or simultaneously to start rotation of the three reels R1 to R3 (S105). . Further, when the rotation of the reels R1 to R3 is started, the CPU 101 counts down the value of the activation counter every time one pulse of the reel drive signal 154a is output.
Since the player knows that the white cherry award has been won by a notification from the slot machine 1 immediately after operating the start lever 12, he hits the left stop button 13a repeatedly.

Next, the CPU 101 performs stop operation validation processing (normal) (S407). The process in step S407 is a stop operation validation process when the value of the counter use flag is “0”, that is, in the normal time. Here, for example, as in the normal case of the second embodiment, the CPU 101 validates the stop operation at the timing when the rotation of the left reel R1 is advanced by 504 steps (one rotation) after the end of the acceleration period.
When the value of the counter use flag is set to “1”, the CPU 101 validates the stop operation at the timing when the value of the validation counter reaches “0”. Will be described later.

  When detecting the stop operation instruction signals 113a to 113c, the CPU 101 performs a reel stop process for stopping the rotation of each of the reels R1 to R3 (S408). For example, if the result of the internal lottery is lost, the reel stop process delays the reel stop timing even if the player performs a stop operation at the timing when the symbol that constitutes the winning combination has reached the valid winning line. Thus, the symbols that make up the winning combination should not stop on a valid winning line. The same applies to a role corresponding to a prize that was not won in the internal lottery. On the other hand, when a prize that is an internal lottery is won, the player performs a stop operation not only at the timing when the symbols that make up the winning prize are on the valid winning line, but at a slightly earlier timing. However, the pull-in control is performed so that the symbols constituting the winning combination stop on the winning line. Further, after all the reels R1 to R3 are stopped, the CPU 101 determines whether or not a winning combination is established on an effective winning line (S409), and if a winning is set, a game set for each winning combination. Add value.

  Next, the CPU 101 stores the stop step position of the left reel R1 in preparation for the stop operation validation pre-processing (S405) from the next time on (S409). For example, when the “plum” symbol of symbol number PN = 6 is displayed at the middle display position in the left reel R1, “124” is stored in the RAM 105 as the stop step position. Further, the CPU 101 performs a game end determination process (S410) and a lottery information clear process (S411), and then cancels the prohibition of the bet operation and ends the game.

When the value of the counter use flag is set to “1”, the CPU 101 validates the stop operation at the timing when the value of the validation counter reaches “0”.
For example, when the value of m is “2” as described above, the “Plum” symbol of symbol number PN = 6 is displayed in the middle display position on the left reel R1, and the white cherry prize is won in the normal game. If there is, “1173” is set in the validation counter, and the value of the validation counter is down-counted every time one pulse of the reel drive signal 154a is output. In this case, after all, when the value of the counter use flag becomes “0”, the step position of the left reel R1 located on the center line of the middle display position is “289”. At this time, the acceptance of the stop operation is validated. As shown in FIG. 13, the retractable range of the “white cherry” symbol in the left reel R1 is “289 to 408”. Further, since the player knows that the white cherry award has been won by the notification by the liquid crystal display 30, the player keeps hitting the left stop button 13a continuously from the stage before the stop operation is validated. Therefore, immediately after the stop operation is validated, the stop operation instruction signal 113a is received and the reel stop process for the left reel R1 is performed. For this reason, the “white cherry” symbol is drawn on the winning line by the pull-in control and stops.

  Also, as described above, when the value of m is “2” and the “Plum” symbol of symbol number PN = 6 is displayed in the middle display position on the left reel R1, the white cherry prize is won in the RT game. If there is, “1293” is set in the enabling counter, and the value of the enabling counter is down-counted every time one pulse of the reel drive signal 154a is output. Also in this case, after all, when the value of the counter use flag becomes “0”, the step position of the left reel R1 located on the center line of the middle display position is “409”. At this time, the acceptance of the stop operation is validated. As shown in FIG. 13, the non-retractable range of the “white cherry” symbol in the left reel R1 is “409 to 288”. Further, since the player knows that the white cherry award has been won by the notification by the liquid crystal display 30, the player keeps hitting the left stop button 13a continuously from the stage before the stop operation is validated. Therefore, immediately after the stop operation is validated, the stop operation instruction signal 113a is received and the reel stop process for the left reel R1 is performed. For this reason, in the reel stop process, the “white cherry” symbol cannot be drawn on the winning line. Therefore, the “white cherry” symbol is stopped except on the winning line.

As described above, the present embodiment has the same effects as those of the first embodiment. In addition, it is possible to simplify the stop operation validation control in the case of winning the cherry prize in the normal game and in the case of winning the cherry prize in the RT game compared to the case of the first embodiment or the second embodiment. it can.
In the control configuration of the present embodiment, when the stepping motor 54a steps out during the acceleration period, the timing for enabling the stop operation is set so that the cherry prize is won or the cherry prize is not won. Can not do. Therefore, when the stepping motor 54a is detected to be out of step, the timing at which the left reel R1 is advanced by 504 steps (one rotation) after the end of the acceleration period is exceptionally the same as in the normal case. It is good also as a structure which validates stop operation.
The validation counter can also be used for the validation control of the stop operation in normal times. In this case, the activation counter is used in all cases without the counter use flag, and in the normal case, a set value (for example, “1008”) determined in advance for normal use is validated. Just set it on the counter.

In this embodiment, the value of the enable counter is down-counted using the reel drive signal 154a. However, the INTR signal supplied from the clock generation circuit b103 can also be used. However, as described in the first embodiment, when the rotation of the reels R1 to R3 reaches a constant speed, the INTR signal and the reel drive signal 154a correspond one-to-one, but during the acceleration period, There is no one-to-one correspondence between INTR signals and reel drive signals 154a. However, since the total number of INTR signals supplied from the clock generation circuit b103 during the acceleration period of a total of 22 steps is determined, when this total is T, the number of steps “22” of the reel drive signal 154a for the acceleration period. "May be replaced with T. That is, when the setting value of the enabling counter when using the reel driving signal 154a is Z and the setting value of the enabling counter when using the INTR signal is Z _INTR , the setting value Z _INTR is Z−22 + G. Become.

<4: Modification>
The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and for example, the following modifications are possible. Also, two or more of the following modifications can be combined as appropriate.

[Modification 1]
In each of the above-described embodiments, both (A) control for enabling the stop operation to win the winning cherry prize and (B) control for enabling the stop operation so as to miss the winning cherry prize are performed. Although it was set as the structure performed, it is good also as a structure which performs only (A) or (B).

[Modification 2]
In each of the above-described embodiments, for example, even in the case of a BB game or a BB carryover game, if a cherry prize is won, a stop operation is enabled so that the won cherry prize is won as in the case of a normal game. You may change the timing to do.

[Modification 3]
In each of the above-described embodiments, the stop operation is validated so as not to win the winning cherry prize in both the AT state and the non-AT state in the RT game. In such a case, the stop operation may be validated so as not to win the winning cherry prize, and in the case of the RT game non-AT state, the stop operation may be validated at the same timing as the normal time. That is, the timing for enabling the stop operation may be switched so that the winning cherry prize is not won by adding the condition that the player is in the AT state to the condition that the cherry prize (specific prize) is won in the RT game. Good. In this case, in the RT game AT state started after the end of the BB game, the stop operation is validated so as not to win the winning cherry prize, so the RT game can be easily continued. On the other hand, in the RT game non-AT state, since it is necessary to perform a stop operation so as not to win the cherry prize won by the player's pressing skill, the difficulty level of continuing the RT game is increased. Further, it is possible to further improve the gameability by changing the timing of transition from the AT state to the non-AT state according to the lottery or the skill of the player.

[Modification 4]
In each of the embodiments described above, the three cherry awards (red, white, and black) are designated as specific prizes. However, only one of the cherry prizes may be designated as the specific prize.
Further, instead of the cherry award, the small role B1 award, the small role B2 award, and the small role B3 award may be set as the specific prize. The small role B1 award (red 7-bell-bell), small role B2 award (white 7-bell-bell), and small role B3 award (black bar-bell-bell) all consist of three symbols. Of these, the remaining two symbols excluding the symbol corresponding to the left reel R1 are 100% drawable symbols. Accordingly, if the stop operation is validated at a timing at which the symbols constituting the respective prizes on the left reel R1 can be stopped on the winning line, the pull-in control is performed for the remaining reels R2 and R3, so Become. For example, in the case of winning the small role B1 prize (red 7-bell-bell), when winning the small role B1 prize, it is possible to stop the “red 7” symbol on the left reel R1 on the winning line. The stop operation may be validated at the timing. On the contrary, if the small role B1 prize is not won, if the small role B1 prize is won, the stop operation may be activated at a timing when the “red 7” symbol cannot be drawn on the winning line in the left reel R1. .

[Modification 5]
The BB1 award (red 7-red 7-red 7) and the small role A award (watermelon-watermelon-watermelon) that require pressing on all the reels R1 to R3 may be specified prizes. For example, in the case of winning the BB1 prize (red 7-red 7-red 7), when the BB1 prize is won, the “red 7” symbol can be stopped on the winning line in the left reel R1. The stop operation may be validated. In this case, since it is not necessary to press the left reel R1, it is possible to reduce the number of reels that need to be pressed by one and make it easier to win the BB1 prize. In this way, the specific prize may not always be won, but a configuration in which the number of reels that need to be pressed is reduced to make it easy to win the special prize may be adopted.
On the other hand, if the BB1 award (red 7-red 7-red 7) is not won, when the BB1 award is won, the “red 7” symbol cannot be drawn on the winning line in the left reel R1. The stop operation may be validated.

[Modification 6]
In each of the embodiments described above, the fact that the cherry prize has been won is displayed on the liquid crystal display 30 to notify the player, but the winning state is notified by changing the lighting state of the game guide display 22 and the illumination LED 31. Also good. In addition, a guide voice or a notification sound may be output from the speaker 32 to notify that the cherry prize has been won, or the start lever 12 may be vibrated to notify the winning. In addition, when winning the Cherry Prize, (1) the reels R1 to R3 are stopped without rotating immediately even if the start lever 12 is operated. In a method called so-called broken system notification, such as keeping the high-speed rotation for a while without decelerating, (3) stopping the illumination display for a certain period, (4) stopping the sound effects and BGM output for a certain period, etc. Notification of winning may be made.
Note that the player basically knows that a specific prize has been won by notification from the slot machine 1, but for example, during a special game in which the probability of winning a specific prize is set extremely high (for example, a bonus) During the game or during the replay time), it is possible to know that the specific prize has been won by predicting by itself without notification from the slot machine 1. Thus, it is not always necessary to notify the player that the specific prize has been won.

[Modification 7]
In each of the embodiments described above, the left reel R1 is a specific display row, but the middle reel R2 and the right reel R3 may be a specific display row. In other words, among the three symbols composing the winning prize, the symbol corresponding to the middle reel R2 and the right reel R3 is targeted at a timing at which the symbol can be drawn on the winning line, or the symbol is displayed. You may validate stop operation at the timing which cannot be drawn on a winning line.

[Modification 8]
In each of the above-described embodiments, when the two conditions of winning the cherry prize and satisfying the base game are satisfied, the timing for enabling the stop operation is changed so that the winning cherry prize is won. In addition, when the two conditions of winning the cherry prize and satisfying the RT game are satisfied, the timing for enabling the stop operation is changed so that the winning cherry prize is not won. However, when one condition that the cherry prize is won is satisfied, the timing for enabling the stop operation may be changed so that the winning cherry prize is won. In addition, when one condition of overlapping winnings is satisfied, the timing for enabling the stop operation may be changed so as not to win a prize with a small number of payouts among winning prizes.

[Modification 9]
In each embodiment mentioned above, it is not necessary to make the timing which validates stop operation with all the stop buttons 13a-13c.
For example, when the cherry prize is won in the base game, only the left stop button 13a corresponding to the left reel R1 (specific display column) is changed in timing for enabling the stop operation so that the winning cherry prize is won. For the middle stop button 13b and the right stop button 13c, the stop operation may be validated at the same timing as normal. In addition, when the cherry prize is won in the RT game, only the left stop button 13a corresponding to the left reel R1 (specific display column) is changed in the timing for enabling the stop operation so as not to win the selected cherry prize. For the middle stop button 13b and the right stop button 13c, the stop operation may be validated at the same timing as normal. Also, the stop operation validation timing at the normal time does not have to be the same for all the stop buttons 13a to 13c.
Further, the number of frames that can be drawn is not limited to four, but may be within four frames, and the number of reels may be four instead of three. Further, the number of steps required to rotate the reel once, the number of symbols arranged on one reel, and the like can be changed as appropriate.

[Modification 10]
In each of the above-described embodiments, the case where the present invention is applied to a slot machine including a mechanical reel has been described. However, the present invention is a video reel type slot that displays an image of a reel on a display such as a liquid crystal display panel. It can also be applied to machines. In this case, in the video reel type slot machine, the variable display of symbols is controlled in units of steps so that a predetermined number of symbols on each video reel make a round in n steps, and the acceleration period, deceleration period, and pull-in control, etc. Is controlled in the same way as a slot machine with a mechanical reel. In addition, a reference position is set in any range within a predetermined number of symbols in each video reel, and the reference position signal is output by detecting the passage of the reference position every time the symbols make a round. As a result, even in a video reel type slot machine, the reference position can be detected by the reference position signal, and the number of steps from the reference position can be managed as the step position in each video reel. As with 1 (mechanical reel), based on the step position of a specific video reel (specific display column), the stop operation is effective so that the selected special prize is won or the selected special prize is not won. It becomes possible to determine the timing of conversion.
For video reel type slot machines, a slot machine (actual machine) equipped with a mechanical reel is simulated by software, and the number of steps, reference position, acceleration period, deceleration period, pull-in control, etc. are reproduced in the same way as the actual machine. Thus, a home game machine or a personal computer that variably displays a video reel is included.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Slot machine, R1-R3 ... Reel, 13a-13c ... Stop button, 101 ... CPU, TBL6 ... Activation timing change table, 108a ... Step position detection counter, 103 ... Clock generation circuit b, 154a-154c ... Reel drive Signals 57c... Detection plates 55a to 55c reel position detection sensors 155a to 155c reel position detection signals.

Claims (4)

Each of the symbols of a predetermined number of frames can be cyclically variably displayed, and when the minimum unit of the variable display stop control is one step, n steps (n is a natural number) before the symbol completes a cycle. Multiple display columns that require
Start instruction means for inputting a variable display start instruction of the plurality of display columns;
A plurality of stop instruction means provided corresponding to each of the plurality of display columns, for inputting a variable display stop instruction;
Each of the plurality of display columns is variably displayed in response to an instruction from the start instructing means, and each instruction of the plurality of stop instructing means is received in a state where it is variably displayed at a constant speed after a predetermined acceleration period. And variable display control means for stopping the variable display of the display row corresponding to the stop instruction means that has received the instruction within a predetermined number of pull-in steps after a predetermined deceleration period,
In the slot machine that wins when the stop mode after all the variable display of the plurality of display columns is a predetermined winning mode,
The plurality of display columns include one specific display column,
A winning permission means for performing a lottery for each game and permitting a winning based on a result of the lottery;
When the number of steps from the reference position and the step position in the display row, when prize allowed by the winning permission unit is a specific prize, the step position before Symbol specific display column so as not to pay before Symbol particular award Specifying means for specifying as a specific step position;
Reception validation means for validating the acceptance of the instructions of the plurality of stop instruction means at a predetermined timing when each of the plurality of display columns is variably displayed at the constant speed. ,
The specifying means is:
One winning line set for the specific display column or a winning line provided at the bottom of a plurality of winning lines set for the specific display column is defined as a first specific winning line, and the specific display One winning line set for a column or a winning line provided at the top of a plurality of winning lines set for the specific display column is defined as a second specified winning line, and the first specified winning line The position at which the symbol constituting the specific prize stops is defined as the first stop step position, the symbol passes the first specific prize line, and the symbol constituting the specific prize is then placed on the second specific prize line. When the stop position is the second stop step position,
The specific step position is set within a range after the number of steps required for the deceleration period from the first stop step position and before the number of the drawing steps from the second stop step position.
The reception validation means, at least on the condition that the prize permitted by the winning permission means is the specific prize, the timing for validating the reception for at least the specific display line of the plurality of display lines, Switching from a predetermined timing to a timing at which the variable display of the specific display row reaches the specific step position;
A slot machine characterized by that. Each of the plurality of display columns is provided with a reference position detecting means for detecting the reference position and outputting a reference position signal every time the symbol makes a round,
The reception enabling means is based on the timing at which the reference position signal corresponding to the specific display row is detected, when the variable display of the specific display row reaches the specific step position. Activate the corresponding reception,
The slot machine according to claim 1 . The acceptance validation means calculates the shortest number of steps to proceed from the step position of the specific display row before starting the variable display to the specific step position,
Calculating the total number of steps obtained by adding the calculated number of steps to the number of steps obtained by multiplying the n steps by m (m is a natural number);
The reception corresponding to the specific display column is validated when the variable display advances up to the total number of steps after the specific display column starts variable display in response to an instruction from the start instruction means.
The slot machine according to claim 1 . The plurality of display rows are composed of a plurality of reels that are driven by a stepping motor that rotates once in n (n is a natural number) step and rotated so that the symbols are variably displayed when the minimum unit of stop control is one step. And
The start instruction means is for inputting a start instruction for rotation of the plurality of reels,
The plurality of stop instruction means are provided corresponding to each of the plurality of reels, and are for inputting a rotation stop instruction,
The variable display control unit rotates each of the plurality of reels in response to an instruction from the start instruction unit, and rotates each of the plurality of stop instruction units while rotating at a constant speed through a predetermined acceleration period. When the instruction is received, the rotation of the reel corresponding to the stop instruction means that has received the instruction is stopped within a predetermined number of pull-in steps after a predetermined deceleration period,
In the slot machine that wins when the stop mode after the rotation of all of the plurality of reels is a predetermined winning mode,
The plurality of reels includes one specific reel,
The specifying means is:
When the number of steps from the reference position and the step position in Li Lumpur, when prize allowed by the winning permission unit is a specific prize, the step position before Symbol particular reels so as not to pay before Symbol particular award As a specific step position,
One winning line set for the specific reel or a winning line provided at the bottom of a plurality of winning lines set for the specific reel is defined as a first specific winning line, and A single winning line or a winning line provided at the top of a plurality of winning lines set for the specific reel is defined as a second specific winning line, and the specific prize is included in the first specific winning line. The position at which the symbol constituting the symbol stops is defined as a first stop step position, and the symbol is over the first specific winning line, and then the symbol constituting the specific prize is stopped at the second specific winning line. When in the second stop step position,
The specific step position is set within a range after the number of steps required for the deceleration period from the first stop step position and before the number of the drawing steps from the second stop step position.
The reception validation means includes
Enabling the acceptance of the instructions of the plurality of stop instructing means at a predetermined timing when each of the plurality of reels is rotating at the constant speed;
The timing at which the acceptance for at least the specific reel among the plurality of reels is validated is determined from the predetermined timing on the condition that the prize permitted by the winning permission means is the specific prize. Is switched to the timing when the rotation of has reached the specific step position,
The slot machine according to any one of claims 1 to 3 , wherein

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