JP4928010B1 - Amusement stand - Google Patents

Abstract

An object of the present invention is to provide a game stand that prevents a game from fading even when a stop operation is performed at the same time, and realizes a smooth game progress.
In a gaming machine such as a slot machine, an operation order determining means for determining that the stop operation is performed in an operation order other than the operation order having the lowest advantage when a stop operation for a plurality of reels is simultaneously received. It is provided with.
[Selection] Figure 16

Description

  The present invention relates to a game machine represented by a slot machine (pachislot).

  In game machines represented by slot machines, stop buttons are provided corresponding to a plurality of reels, and the corresponding reels are stopped in response to a player's stop operation on the stop buttons. 2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, there has been proposed a system in which an invalid period for invalidating a stop operation is provided for a predetermined time (for example, 200 ms) between one stop operation and the next stop operation. However, if an invalid period is provided, the player's continuous stop operation is hindered, and there are cases in which the fun of the game is reduced by harming smooth game progress.

  On the other hand, by eliminating the invalid period, it becomes possible to proceed with the game more smoothly, but a plurality of stop buttons may be operated simultaneously. In such a case, it has been proposed that any stop operation is invalid and the reel is not stopped (for example, Patent Document 1).

Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 06-225963 Japanese Patent No. 4530343

  Here, in a game machine represented by a slot machine, an operation order is set such that a stop operation operation order is set and a profit is given to a player or a disadvantage is given to the player when the set operation order is satisfied. Different players have different advantages depending on the situation (for example, Patent Document 2). The player is basically unable to know the set operation order, but in a specific gaming state, the player is given an opportunity to be advantageous by notifying the set operation order. Can do.

  When a plurality of stop buttons are operated at the same time, if any of the stop operations is invalidated as in Patent Document 1, the realization of smooth game progression, which is the original purpose, may be impaired. In addition, in a game in which an operation order is set, if any stop operation becomes invalid, the subsequent stop operation becomes the first stop operation, which may be an operation order not intended by the player. In this case, if an adverse result is brought to the player, the interest of the game is reduced.

  An object of the present invention is to provide a game table that prevents a game from fading even when a stop operation is performed at the same time, and realizes a smooth game progression.

According to the present invention, a plurality of types of symbols are provided, and a plurality of reels that are rotationally driven and provided corresponding to each of the reels, accepting a player's stop operation, and individually stopping the rotation of the reels A combination of a predetermined symbol is a combination of a stop operation accepting unit for causing the reel to stop, a reel stop control unit for controlling the stop of the reel based on the stop operation, and the symbol displayed by the reel at the time of the stop. Winning determination means for determining whether or not a winning combination is based on whether or not the game player has a different advantage in accordance with the operation order of the stop operation. of when the stop operation is accepted at the same time with respect to the reel, the advantage of an operation order determining means is regarded as the stop operation is performed by operating an order other than the lowest order of operations, Serial reel stop control means is provided amusement machine, characterized in that simultaneously a plurality of said reels where the stop operation is accepted, it performs control to stop without requiring a new said stop operation.

  ADVANTAGE OF THE INVENTION According to this invention, even if it is a case where stop operation is made simultaneously, it can prevent that the interest of a game declines and can provide the game stand which implement | achieves a smooth game progress.

FIG. 3 is an external perspective view of the slot machine 100 as viewed from the front side (player side). The front view which looked at the symbol display window 113 and each reel 110-112 provided in the slot machine 100 from the front. The circuit block diagram of a control part. The figure which expanded and showed the arrangement | sequence of the symbol given to each reel (left reel 110, middle reel 111, right reel 112) planarly. The figure which shows the kind of winning combination (including an operating combination), the symbol combination corresponding to each winning combination, and the operation or payout of each winning combination. FIG. 7 shows transition transition diagrams and transition conditions of the gaming state of the slot machine 100. FIG. The figure which shows the lottery table of the winning combination in each game state. The figure which shows the lottery table which described the re-game player 1 and 2 and the re-game player 3 and 4 in detail among the lottery tables of the winning combination in each game state. The figure which shows the lottery table which described in detail about the small combination 3a among the lottery tables of the winning combination in each game state. The figure which showed the outline | summary that the operating condition affects the stop display mode of the small role 3a in time series. 5 is a flowchart showing a flow of main processing of the main control unit 300. The flowchart which shows the flow of a main control part timer interruption process. The flowchart which shows the flow of an input port state update process. (A) is a flowchart of a main process executed by the CPU 404 of the first sub control unit 400, (b) is a flowchart of a command reception interrupt process of the first sub control unit 400, and (c) is a first sub control. 6 is a flowchart of timer interrupt processing of the unit 400. (A) is a flowchart of a main process executed by the CPU 504 of the second sub-control unit 500, (b) is a flowchart of a command reception interrupt process of the second sub-control unit 500, and (c) is a second sub-control. 6 is a flowchart of timer interrupt processing of the unit 500, and (d) is a flowchart of image control processing of the second sub-control unit 500. The figure which shows the example of determination of an operation order. The figure which shows the example of determination of an operation order. The figure which shows the example of determination of an operation order. The figure which shows the example of determination of an operation order. The flowchart which shows the example of the reel stop control process of S8. The flowchart which shows the example of the production control process of S45. The flowchart of the process at the time of internal winning command reception of S132. The flowchart of the read-out process of the notification effect data of S142. The flowchart of the AT setting process of S143. The flowchart of AT lottery processing of S144. The flowchart of the process at the time of the stop command reception of S134. The flowchart which shows the example of the reel stop control process in 2nd Embodiment. The figure which shows the example of stop control. The figure which expanded and showed the arrangement | sequence of the symbol given to each reel (left reel 110, middle reel 111, right reel 112) in 3rd Embodiment. The figure which shows the kind of winning combination (including an operating combination) in 3rd Embodiment, the symbol combination corresponding to each winning combination, and the action | operation or payout of each winning combination. (A) And (b) is a figure which shows the example of stop control by an operation order. (A) thru | or (c) is a figure which shows an example of a reach eye. (A) And (b) is explanatory drawing of the reach eye which considered the operation order.

<First Embodiment>
Hereinafter, the gaming machine (here, a slot machine) according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

  First, the basic configuration of the slot machine 100 will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2. FIG. 1 is an external perspective view of the slot machine 100 as viewed from the front side (player side). FIG. 2 is a front view of the symbol display window 113 and the reels 110 to 112 provided in the slot machine 100 as viewed from the front.

  A slot machine 100 shown in FIG. 1 includes a main body 101 and a front door 102 that is attached to the front surface of the main body 101 and can be opened and closed with respect to the main body 101. Three reels (left reel 110, middle reel 111, and right reel 112) having a plurality of types of symbols arranged on the outer peripheral surface are housed inside the center of the main body 101, and can be rotated inside the slot machine 100. Has been. These reels 110 to 112 are rotationally driven by a driving device such as a stepping motor.

  In the present embodiment, an appropriate number of symbols are printed on the belt-like member at equal intervals, and the reels 110 to 112 are configured by affixing the belt-like member to a predetermined circular cylindrical frame member. When viewed from the player, the symbols on the reels 110 to 112 are roughly displayed in the vertical direction from the symbol display window 113 (each may be referred to as a symbol display area), and a total of nine symbols can be seen. ing.

  Specifically, referring to FIG. 2, the symbols displayed on the upper stage of the left reel 110 (position 1 shown in the figure) are displayed on the upper stage of the left reel 110 and the middle stage of the left reel 110 (position 2 shown in the figure). The symbol to be displayed is displayed in the middle stage of the left reel, the symbol displayed in the lower stage of the left reel 110 (position 3 in the figure), the symbol displayed in the lower stage of the left reel, and the upper stage of the middle reel 111 (position 4 in the figure). The symbol is displayed on the middle reel upper symbol, the symbol displayed on the middle reel 111 (position 5 in the drawing) is the middle reel middle symbol, and the symbol displayed on the lower reel 111 (position 6 in the drawing) is displayed. The symbol displayed on the lower stage of the middle reel, the upper stage of the right reel 112 (position 7 in the figure) is the upper stage of the right reel, and the picture displayed on the middle stage of the right reel 112 (position 8 in the figure) is the right reel. Middle design, bottom of right reel 112 (in the figure The symbols displayed in to 9 position) is called the right reel lower symbol respectively.

  Each of the symbols of each of the reels 110 to 112 is displayed in a vertical direction on the reels 110 to 112 through the symbol display window 113, for a total of nine. Then, by rotating each of the reels 110 to 112, the combination of symbols that can be seen by the player varies. That is, each of the reels 110 to 112 functions as a display device that displays a plurality of combinations of symbols in a variable manner. In other words, each of the reels 110 to 112 is provided in the slot machine 100 so that a plurality of types of symbols are applied and driven to rotate.

  In addition to the reel, an electronic image display device such as an effect image display device 157 can also be adopted as such a display device. In this embodiment, three reels are provided in the center of the slot machine 100. However, the number of reels and the installation position of the reels are not limited to this.

  A backlight (not shown) for illuminating the individual symbols displayed on the symbol display window 113 is disposed on the back of each of the reels 110 to 112. It is desirable that the backlight is shielded for each symbol so that the individual symbols can be illuminated evenly. In the slot machine 100, an optical sensor (not shown) including a light projecting unit and a light receiving unit is provided in the vicinity of each of the reels 110 to 112. The light projecting unit and the light receiving unit of the optical sensor are provided. A light shielding piece of a certain length provided on the reel passes between the two. The main control unit 300 determines the position of the symbol in the rotation direction on the reel based on the detection result of the sensor, and stops the reels 110 to 112 so that the target symbol is displayed on the winning line.

  The winning line display lamp 120 is a lamp that indicates an effective winning line. The winning line is a line for determining whether or not a symbol combination corresponding to a winning combination described in FIG. 5 described later is displayed. In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. The middle line L1 composed of symbols, middle reel middle symbol and right middle symbol, left reel upper symbol, middle reel upper symbol and right reel upper symbol composed of upper reel L2, left reel lower symbol, middle reel lower symbol and Lower line L3 composed of lower reel lower symbol, left reel lower symbol, middle reel middle symbol and right reel upper segment composed of right reel upper symbol, left reel upper symbol, middle reel middle symbol and right reel lower symbol Five winning lines of the downward-sloping line L5 are provided.

  An effective winning line (hereinafter sometimes simply referred to as “effective line”) is determined in advance by the number of medals bet as a game medium. In each case, for example, when one medal is bet, the middle line is valid, when two medals are bet, three lines with the upper line and the lower line are added, and three medals are bet The five lines to which the upper right line and the lower right line are added are effective as the winning line. The number of winning lines is not limited to 5 lines.

  The notification lamp 123 is, for example, a lamp that informs the player that a specific winning combination (specifically, a special combination) has been won internally in an internal lottery described later, or that the player is in the BB gaming state. The game medal insertable lamp 124 is a lamp for notifying that the player can insert a game medal. The replay lamp 122 informs the player that the current game can be replayed (the medal insertion is not required) when a replay game that is one of the winning games in the previous game is won. It is a lamp to inform. The reel panel lamp 128 is an effect lamp.

  The bet buttons 130 to 132 are buttons for inserting a predetermined number of medals (referred to as credits) stored electronically in the slot machine 100. In this embodiment, every time the 1-bet bet button 130 is pressed, up to 3 cards are inserted, and when the 2-bet bet button 131 is pressed, 2 cards are inserted and the MAX bet button 132 is pressed. When it is done, 3 sheets are inserted.

  The one-bet bet button 130, the two-bet bet button 131, and the MAX bet button 132 are operation units that receive a predetermined insertion instruction operation for game media electronically stored in the storage means. Further, further limiting, the one-bet bet button 130, the two-bet bet button 131, and the MAX bet button 132 are game media stored electronically in storage means for electronically storing game media for use in the game. It is a throwing-in operation part which receives the operation for the instruction | indication for using for game.

  The game medal insertion lamp 129 lights up the number of lamps corresponding to the number of inserted medals, and when a prescribed number of medals are inserted, the game start is informed that the game can be started. The lamp 121 is turned on.

  The medal slot 141 is an slot for a player to insert a medal when starting a game. That is, the medal can be inserted electronically by the bet buttons 130 to 132, or an actual medal can be inserted (insertion operation) from the medal insertion slot 141. is there. That is, operating the one-bet bet button 130, the two-bet bet button 131, and the MAX bet button 132, and inserting a medal into the medal insertion slot 141 corresponds to an insertion operation. Further, as will be described later, since the game start operation can be accepted by performing the input operation, the input operation is one of a plurality of types of game operations for proceeding with the game.

  The stored number display 125 is a display for displaying the number of medals stored electronically in the slot machine 100. The game information display 126 is a display for displaying various types of internal information (for example, the number of medals paid out during a bonus game) as numerical values. The payout number display 127 is a display for displaying the number of medals to be paid out to the player as a result of winning a winning combination. The stored number display 125, the game information display 126, and the payout number display 127 are 7 segment (SEG) displays.

  The start lever 135 is a lever type switch for starting the rotation of the reels 110 to 112. That is, when the start lever 135 is operated when the desired medal number is inserted into the medal insertion slot 141, the bet buttons 130 to 132 are operated, or the automatic insertion by the re-gamer winning is performed, the reels 110 to 110 are operated. 112 will start rotating.

  Note that the operation on the start lever 135 is an instruction to start the game, and corresponds to the start operation. Since the rotation of the reels 110 to 112 is started by performing the start operation, the start operation is one of a plurality of types of game operations for proceeding with the game. In addition, the start lever 135 is a predetermined operation unit among a plurality of operation units that receives the player's operation, and in particular, is a start operation reception unit that receives the start operation. In other words, the start lever 135 is a rotation instruction operation unit that receives an operation for an instruction to start rotation of the reels 110 to 112 by an operation by the player.

  The stop button unit 136 is provided with stop buttons 137 to 139 including a left stop button 137, a middle stop button 138, and a right stop button 139. The stop buttons 137 to 139 are button-type switches for individually stopping the reels 110 to 112 that have started rotating by operating the start lever 135, and are associated with the reels 110 to 112.

  More specifically, the left reel 110 can be stopped by operating the left stop button 137, the middle reel 111 can be stopped by operating the middle stop button 138, and the right stop button 139 can be The right reel 111 can be stopped by operating.

  Hereinafter, the operation on the stop buttons 137 to 139 is referred to as a stop operation, the first stop operation is referred to as a first stop operation, the next stop operation is referred to as a second stop operation, and the last stop operation is referred to as a third stop operation. The order of stopping the stop buttons 137 to 139 in order to stop the reels 110 to 112 that are rotating is referred to as a stop operation order or simply an operation order.

  Each of the stop switches 137 to 139 is provided corresponding to each of the reels 110 to 112, and receives a player's stop operation, and individually stops the rotating reels 110 to 112. Stop operation receiving means It corresponds to. In other words, each of the stop switches 137 to 139 is provided in one-to-one correspondence with the plurality of reels and instructs to stop the rotation of the plurality of reels, and corresponds to the plurality of stop switches.

  Note that the third stop operation when the re-game player wins is an automatic insertion which will be described later as an effect of the re-game player win based on the third stop operation. In addition, the operation of any one of the stop buttons 137 to 139 as the third stop operation may be referred to as a closing operation.

  Each stop button 137 to 139 may be provided with a light emitter, and when the stop button 137 to 139 can be operated, the light emitter can be turned on to notify the player.

  The medal return button 133 is a button that is pressed to remove a medal when the inserted medal is jammed. The payment button 134 is a button for adjusting the medals electronically stored in the slot machine 100 and the bet medals and discharging them from the medal payout exit 155. The door key hole 140 is a hole into which a key for unlocking the front door 102 of the slot machine 100 is inserted.

  Below the stop button unit 136 is provided a title panel 162 for displaying the model name and pasting various types of certificate. At the lower part of the title panel 162, a medal payout opening 155 and a medal tray 161 are provided.

  The sound hole 180 is a hole for outputting the sound of a speaker provided inside the slot machine 100 to the outside. The side lamps 144 provided on the left and right portions of the front door 102 are decorative lamps for exciting games. An effect device 160 is disposed above the front door 102, and a sound hole 143 is provided above the effect device 160.

  The effect device 160 includes a shutter (shielding device) 163 including two right shutters 163a and a left shutter 163b that can be opened and closed in the horizontal direction, and an effect image display device 157 disposed on the back side of the shutter 163. When the right shutter 163a and the left shutter 163b are opened outward in the horizontal direction before the effect image display device 157, the display screen of the effect image display device 157 appears on the front side (player side) of the slot machine 100. Yes. The effect image display device 157 displays various information related to the game and displays effect images.

  This notification includes notification regarding the operation of the stop buttons 137 to 139. That is, the effect image display device 157 corresponds to an example of a notification unit that performs notification regarding the operation of the stop buttons 137 to 139.

  The display member shielded by the shutter 163 is not limited to the effect image display device 157, but may be any display device capable of displaying various effect images and various game information. For example, a multi-segment display (7-segment display) , A dot matrix display, an organic EL display, a plasma display, a reel (drum), or a display device including a projector and a screen. These may be used as notification means.

  Note that the speaker 272, the speaker 277, various lamps, and the like also correspond to the notification unit. That is, the notification means refers to the effect image display device 157, various speakers, various lamps, and the like. The first sub-control unit 400 and the second sub-control unit 500 described later are control units (for example, the first sub-control unit 400 and the second sub-control unit 500) that control these notification units. That is, the first sub-control unit 400 or the second sub-control unit 500 controls the notification unit and corresponds to the notification control unit.

  Note that the control unit that directly controls the effect image display device 157 is the second sub-control unit 500, but what effect image the first sub-control unit 400 displays on the second sub-control unit 500. Since it is an instruction and the effect image display device 157 is indirectly controlled, the first sub-control unit 400 may be expressed as controlling the effect image display device 157.

  Further, the display screen has a rectangular shape and is configured so that the player can visually recognize the entire display screen. In the case of this embodiment, the display screen is rectangular, but may be square. In addition, a decorative object (not shown) may be provided on the periphery of the display screen, and a part of the peripheral edge of the display screen may be hidden by the decorative object, so that the display screen looks irregular. In the present embodiment, the display screen is a flat surface, but may be a curved surface.

  Next, the circuit configuration of the control unit of the control unit of the slot machine 100 will be described in detail with reference to FIG. FIG. 3 is a circuit block diagram of the control unit.

  The control unit of the slot machine 100 is broadly divided into a main control unit 300 that controls the progress of the game, and a sub-control unit (first control unit) that receives a command transmitted by the main control unit 300 and executes a process according to the command. A sub-control unit 400 and a second sub-control unit 500). In the case of the present embodiment, the sub-control unit receives a command from the main control unit 300 and performs a process related to the control of the effect, and the command transmitted from the first sub-control unit 400. And a second sub-control unit 500 that controls various devices.

<Main control unit>
First, the main control unit 300 of the slot machine 100 will be described. The main control unit 300 includes a basic circuit 302 that controls the entire main control unit 300. The basic circuit 302 includes a CPU 304, control program data, lottery data used in the internal lottery of a winning combination, and reel stop. ROM 306 for storing position, RAM 308 for temporarily storing data, I / O 310 for controlling input / output of various devices, counter timer 312 for measuring time, number of times, and the like WDT (watchdog timer) 314 is mounted. Note that other storage devices may be used for the ROM 306 and the RAM 308, and this is the same for the first sub-control unit 400 and the second sub-control unit 500 described later.
The CPU 304 of the basic circuit 302 operates by inputting a clock signal of a predetermined period output from the crystal oscillator 315b as a system clock. Further, when the power is turned on, the CPU 304 transmits the frequency division data stored in the predetermined area of the ROM 306 to the counter timer 312. The counter timer 312 sets the interrupt time based on the received frequency division data. An interrupt request is transmitted to the CPU 304 at every interrupt time. In response to this interrupt request, the CPU 304 monitors each sensor and transmits a drive pulse. For example, when the clock signal output from the crystal oscillator 315b is set to 8 MHz, the frequency division value of the counter timer 312 is set to 1/256, and the data for frequency division of the ROM 306 is set to 47, the interrupt reference time is 256 × 47 ÷ 8 MHz. = 1.504 ms.

  The main control unit 300 includes a random number generation circuit 316 that is used as a hardware random number counter that fluctuates a numerical value in the range of 0 to 65535, and a start signal output circuit that outputs a start signal (reset signal) when the power is turned on. When the activation signal is input from the activation signal output circuit 338, the CPU 304 starts game control (starts main processing main processing described later).

  In addition, the main control unit 300 is provided with a sensor circuit 320, and the CPU 304 performs various sensors 318 (medal insertion operation detection sensor, start lever 135 sensor, bet button 130 sensor, bet button 131 sensor, bet Each of button 132 sensor, medal detection sensor of medal selector, stop button 137 sensor, stop button 138 sensor, stop button 139 sensor, settlement button 134 sensor, medal payout sensor for medals paid out from medal payout device 180, and reels 110-112 The status of the index sensor etc. is monitored. The CPU 304 can acquire the state of each sensor from a predetermined port of the I / O 310.

  When the start operation is detected in a state where the start operation for the start lever 135 can be received, a signal indicating this detection is output to the random number generation circuit 316. Receiving this signal, the random number generation circuit 316 latches the value at that timing and stores it in a register that stores the random value used for the lottery.

  Two medal insertion operation detection sensors are installed in the internal passage of the medal insertion slot 141, and detect whether or not a medal has passed. Two start lever 135 sensors are installed inside the start lever 135 and detect a start operation by the player. A stop button 137 sensor, a stop button 138 sensor, and a stop button 139 sensor are installed in each of the stop buttons 137 to 139, and detect a stop operation by the player.

  The bet button 130 sensor, the bet button 131 sensor, and the bet button 132 sensor are installed in each of the medal insertion buttons 130 to 132, and the medals stored electronically in the RAM 308 are inserted as inserted medals into the game. Detecting the input operation when The settlement button 134 sensor is provided on the settlement button 134. When the settlement button 134 is pressed once, the medals stored electronically are settled. The medal payout sensor is a sensor for detecting a medal paid out by the medal payout device 180. Each of the above sensors may be a non-contact type sensor or a contact type sensor.

  For example, the index sensors of the reels 110 to 116 become L level each time a light shielding piece provided on the reel passes. When detecting this signal, the CPU 304 determines that the reel has made one rotation, and resets the rotational position information of the reel to zero.

  The main control unit 300 is provided in a drive circuit 322 for driving a stepping motor provided in the reel devices 110 to 112, a drive circuit 324 for driving a solenoid provided in a medal selector 170 for selecting inserted medals, and a medal payout device 180. Drive circuit 326 for driving the motor, various lamps 338 (winning line display lamp 120, notification lamp 123, game medal insertion possible lamp 124, replay lamp 122, game medal insertion lamp 129, game start lamp 121, stored number display 125, a game information display 126, and a payout number display 127).

  In addition, an information output circuit 334 is connected to the basic circuit 302, and the main control unit 300 is slotted into an information input circuit 652 provided in an external hall computer (not shown) or the like via the information output circuit 334. The game information (for example, game state) of the machine 100 is output.

  The main control unit 300 also includes a voltage monitoring circuit 330 that monitors the voltage value of the power source supplied from the power management unit (not shown) to the main control unit 300. The voltage monitoring circuit 330 is a voltage of the power source. When the value is less than a predetermined value (9 v in this embodiment), a low voltage signal indicating that the voltage has decreased is output to the basic circuit 302.

  In addition, the main control unit 300 includes an output interface for transmitting a command to the first sub control unit 400 and enables communication with the first sub control unit 400. Note that information communication between the main control unit 300 and the first sub control unit 400 is one-way communication, and the main control unit 300 is configured to be able to transmit signals such as commands to the first sub control unit 400. However, the first sub-control unit 400 is configured not to transmit a signal such as a command to the main control unit 300.

  The main control unit 300 outputs (or enables output) information to the first sub-control unit 400, but the first sub-control unit 400 does not output information to the main control unit 300 (or does not output it). The reason (that is, the reason for the one-way communication) is that an illegal signal is input to the main control unit 300 from an external device or an illegally modified first sub-control unit. This is to prevent unauthorized processing from being performed in the winning lottery processing performed by the control unit. Another reason is that the one-way communication reduces the inspection burden of the inspection organization that inspects the game machine program. The main control unit 300 in this embodiment is provided so that the result of the process performed by the first sub-control unit 400 cannot be input.

<Sub control unit>
Next, the first sub control unit 400 of the slot machine 100 will be described. The first sub-control unit 400 includes a basic circuit 402 that receives a control command transmitted from the main control unit 300 via an input interface and controls the entire first sub-control unit 400 based on the control command. The basic circuit 402 includes a CPU 404, a RAM 408 for temporarily storing data, an I / O 410 for controlling input / output of various devices, and a counter timer 412 for measuring time and frequency. It is equipped with.

  The CPU 404 of the basic circuit 402 operates by inputting a clock signal of a predetermined period output from the crystal oscillator 414 as a system clock. The ROM 406 stores a control program and data for controlling the entire first sub-control unit 400, a backlight lighting pattern, data for controlling various displays, and the like.

  The CPU 404 transmits the frequency division data stored in the predetermined area of the ROM 406 to the counter timer 412 via the data bus at a predetermined timing. The counter timer 412 determines an interrupt time based on the received frequency dividing data, and transmits an interrupt request to the CPU 404 at each interrupt time. The CPU 404 controls each IC and each circuit based on the interrupt request timing.

  The first sub-control unit 400 is provided with a sound source IC 418, and the sound source IC 418 is provided with speakers 272 and 277 via an output interface. The sound source IC 418 controls sound output from the amplifiers and speakers 272 and 277 in accordance with a command from the CPU 404. The sound source IC 418 is connected to an S-ROM (sound ROM) in which audio data is stored. The audio data acquired from the ROM is amplified by an amplifier and output from the speakers 272 and 277.

  The first sub-control unit 400 is provided with a drive circuit 422, and various lamps 420 (upper lamp, lower lamp, side lamp 144, title panel 162 lamp, etc.) are provided to the drive circuit 422 via an input / output interface. It is connected.

  In addition, the CPU 404 transmits and receives signals to the second sub control unit 500 via the output interface. Second sub-control unit 500 performs various controls of effect device 160 including display control of effect image display device 157. The second sub-control unit 500 is, for example, a control unit that controls display of the effect image display device 157, a control unit that controls various drive devices for effect (for example, a control unit that controls motor driving of the shutter 163). ), And the like.

  The second sub-control unit 500 includes a basic circuit 502 that receives the control command transmitted from the first sub-control unit 400 via the input interface and controls the entire second sub-control unit 500 based on the control command. The basic circuit 502 includes a CPU 504, a RAM 508 for temporarily storing data, an I / O 510 for controlling input / output of various devices, and a counter timer for measuring time and frequency 512. The CPU 504 of the basic circuit 502 operates by inputting a clock signal of a predetermined period output from the crystal oscillator 514 as a system clock. The ROM 506 stores a control program and data for controlling the entire second sub control unit 500, data for image display, and the like.

  The CPU 504 transmits the frequency dividing data stored in the predetermined area of the ROM 506 to the counter timer 512 via the data bus at a predetermined timing. The counter timer 512 determines an interrupt time based on the received frequency division data, and transmits an interrupt request to the CPU 504 for each interrupt time. The CPU 504 controls each IC and each circuit based on the interrupt request timing.

  The second sub-control unit 500 is provided with a drive circuit 530 that drives a motor of the shutter 163, and the drive circuit 530 is provided with a shutter 163 via an output interface. The drive circuit 530 outputs a drive signal to a stepping motor (not shown) provided in the shutter 163 in response to a command from the CPU 504.

  The second sub-control unit 500 is provided with a sensor circuit 532, and a shutter sensor 538 is connected to the sensor circuit 532 via an input interface. The CPU 504 monitors the state of the shutter sensor 538 every interruption time.

  The second sub-control unit 500 is provided with a VDP 534 (video display processor), and a ROM 506 and a VRAM 536 are connected to the VDP 534 via a bus. The VDP 534 reads out image data and the like stored in the ROM 306 based on a signal from the CPU 504, generates a display image using the work area of the VRAM 536, and displays the image on the effect image display device 157.

  Next, the symbol arrangement applied to each of the reels 110 to 112 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 4 is a diagram in which the arrangement of symbols applied to each reel (left reel 110, middle reel 111, right reel 112) is developed in a plane.

<Pattern arrangement>
In each reel 110 to 112, a plurality of types (10 types in this embodiment) of symbols shown on the right side of the figure are arranged in a predetermined number of frames (21 frames of numbers 0 to 20 in this embodiment). Also, numbers 0 to 20 shown at the left end of the figure are numbers indicating the arrangement positions of symbols on the reels 110 to 112. For example, in the present embodiment, a “watermelon” symbol is assigned to the number 1 frame of the left reel 110, a “bell” symbol is assigned to the number 0 frame of the middle reel 111, and a “bell” symbol is assigned to the number 2 frame of the right reel 112. The symbols “Seven 1” are arranged.

<Type of winning prize>
Next, the types of roles of the slot machine 100 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing the types of winning combinations (including actuating combinations), symbol combinations corresponding to each winning combination, and the operation or payout of each winning combination.

  The winning combination of the slot machine 100 includes a big bonus (BB), a small combination (small combination 1 to small combination 6), and a re-playing combination (re-playing 1 to re-play 7). Needless to say, the type of winning combination is not limited to this and can be arbitrarily adopted.

  Among the winning combinations in this embodiment, special combination 1 (BB (big bonus) 1) and special combination 2 (BB (big bonus) 2) are assumed to be transferred to bonus games (special games). The re-playing role 7 may be called an “acting role” as distinguished from a winning role as a role that allows re-playing without newly inserting medals. Includes a special combination and a replay combination which are actuators.

  In addition, “winning” in the present embodiment includes a case where a symbol combination of an actuator that does not accompany a medal payout (no medal payout) is displayed on the active line. Includes winnings for gamers.

  “Big Bonus (BB)” (hereinafter sometimes simply referred to as “BB”) is a special combination (operating combination) in which a big bonus game (BB game), which is a special game, is started by winning. As for the corresponding symbol combinations, BB1 is “Seven 1-Seven 1-Seven 1” and BB2 is “Seven 2-Seven 2-Seven 2”.

  For BB, the flag is carried over. That is, when the BB is won internally, a flag indicating this is set (stored in a predetermined area of the RAM 308 of the main control unit 300), but even if the BB is not won in the game, the internal winning until the win is won. The BB flag is maintained, and even after the next game, the BB is currently elected internally, and the symbol combination “Seven 1-Seven 1-Seven 1” or “Seven 2-Seven 2-Seven 2” corresponding to the BB is selected. , It is in a state to win all together.

  The main control unit 300 shifts the gaming state to the RT4 gaming state (which is a special gaming state, which will be described in detail later in FIG. 6) based on the display of this symbol combination. In the present embodiment, there are a plurality of BB flags (BB1 and BB2), and one symbol combination is displayed for each flag. However, when the BB flag is established, two different symbols are displayed. Combinations may be displayed.

  The “re-playing role (re-playing role 1 to re-playing role 7)” is a winning combination (operating role) that allows the player to play a game without inserting a medal (game medium) in the next game by winning. Is not paid out. When the re-gamer wins, the main control unit 300 automatically inserts the same bet number as the previous bet number.

  The corresponding symbol combinations are “replay-replay-replay (ordinary replay)” for replayer 1, “replay-replay-bell (preparation replay)” for replayer 2, and “replay-” for replayer 3. "Replay-Watermelon (Promotion Replay)", Replayer 4 is "Bell-Replay-Replay (Demotion Replay)", Replayer 5 is "Seven 1-Replay-Replay (Control Replay 1)", Replayer 6 is “Seven 2-Replay-Replay (Control Replay 2)” and the replaying role 7 are “BAR-Replay-Replay (Control Replay 3)”. The control replays 1 to 3 are formally set as roles in the control of the game and are not won.

  The small role (small role 1 to small role 6) is a winning role in which a predetermined number of medals are paid out by winning, and the corresponding symbol combination is that the small role 1 is “ANY-Cherry-ANY (Cherry)”, Role 2 is "Watermelon-Watermelon-Watermelon (Watermelon)", Small Role 3 is "ANY-Bell-ANY (Bell)", Small Role 4 is "Seven 1-Watermelon-Bell (Control Small Role 1)", Small Role 5 is “Seven 2-watermelon bell (control small role 2)”, and small role 6 is “BAR-watermelon bell (control small role 3)”, and the corresponding payout number is as shown in FIG.

  In the case of “ANY-Cherry-ANY”, the symbol of the middle reel in the effective line may be “Cherry”, and the symbols of the left reel 111 and the right reel 112 may be any symbols. The meaning of ANY in the small role 3 is the same as that of cherry.

  Note that the small combination 4, the small combination 5, and the small combination 6 are control small combinations used to change the winning line of the small combination 3 described later according to the operation order of the stop buttons 137 to 139. It is a winning combination that never happens.

<Type of gaming state>
Next, the types and transitions of the gaming state of the slot machine 100 will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 6 shows a transition diagram and transition conditions of the gaming state of the slot machine 100, and FIG. 7 shows a lottery table for winning combinations in each gaming state.

  Referring to FIG. 6, in the present embodiment, the gaming state includes a replay low probability state (RT0), a replay high probability preparation state (RT1), a replay high probability state (RT2), and a special role internal winning state (RT3). ), And divided into five game states of special game state (RT4). Note that there are cases where the game state is roughly divided into a normal game state (RT0 to RT3) and a special game state (RT4).

  The alphabets shown on the arrows connecting the game states correspond to the diagram summarizing the transition conditions, and the game state transitions in the direction of the arrow when the conditions described in this diagram are satisfied. For example, the condition for shifting from RT0 to RT1 is winning of the re-game player 2.

  In the re-game low probability state and the special role internal winning state, the total number of medals to be acquired is less than the total number of inserted medals. Therefore, it is a gaming state that is disadvantageous for the player.

  Further, the re-gaming high probability ready state and the re-gaming high probability state are gaming states in which the total number of medals to be acquired can exceed the total number of inserted medals, and there may be a gaming state that is beneficial to the player. The special game state is set so as to be a game state that is beneficial to the player. That is, the special gaming state is a gaming state in which the total number of medals to be acquired exceeds the total number of medals inserted.

  In the present embodiment, the special gaming state ends when a predetermined payout amount is paid out, and during that time there is no transition to the gaming state, but it is started by winning a special role 1 and other special gaming states (A so-called RB gaming state or the like) may be executed continuously and repeatedly. In the special game state, when the BB general game excluding the RB game in the special game is executed a predetermined number of times (for example, 30 times), or the number of RB games executed during the BB game is a predetermined number of times. It may be made to end when it reaches (for example, three times).

  FIG. 7 shows a lottery table for winning combinations in each gaming state. The horizontal axis represents each gaming state, and the vertical axis represents the lottery value for each winning combination. The internal winning probability is a value obtained by multiplying the value obtained by dividing the lottery value by 65536 by 100. For example, in RT3, the lottery value of the small combination 1 is 512, and the winning probability of the small combination 1 is 512/65536 * 100≈8%.

  In this way, the internal winning probability of each combination is obtained from the lottery data prepared in the ROM 306, and numerical data corresponding to the range of the lottery data associated with each combination is obtained as a numerical value in the range of random number values acquired at the time of the internal lottery. It is obtained by a value divided by data (for example, 65535). The lottery data is divided into several numerical ranges in advance, and each combination and lose is associated with each numerical range. It is determined whether the random number value obtained as a result of executing the internal lottery is a value corresponding to the lottery data corresponding to which combination, and the internal lottery combination is determined. In this lottery data, a plurality of settings (for example, settings 1 to 6) with different winning probabilities for at least one combination are prepared, and a game store staff or the like arbitrarily selects and sets one of the set values. Can do.

  Hereinafter, each gaming state will be described in detail.

<Replay low probability state (RT0)>
The re-game low probability state is a game state having the lowest internal winning probability of re-game in the normal game state, and is also an initial game state. In the replay low probability state, a winning combination to be internally won is drawn by referring to the lottery table in the column “RT0” on the horizontal axis shown in FIG.

  In the condition device (winning combination or combination of winning combinations) for internal winning in the replay low probability state, special combination 1, special combination 2, replay combination 1, replay combination 1, 2 and small combination 1 There are a small role 2 and a small role 3a. In other cases, the winning combination is won, and the symbol combination corresponding to the winning combination is not displayed. That is, loss is one of the lottery results.

  Here, the re-game players 1 and 2 indicate that the re-game player 1 and the re-game player 2 are won simultaneously. In this case, it is determined which symbol combination corresponding to which combination is displayed according to the stop operation order of the player. Details will be described later with reference to FIG.

  Further, for the small role 3a, if the stop operation is performed in a specific stop operation sequence, stop control is performed such that the middle reel middle symbol becomes a bell symbol, and 12 symbols are arranged on three effective lines. To be paid out. On the other hand, if the stop operation is performed in a stop operation sequence different from the specific stop operation sequence, stop control is performed so that the upper symbol of the middle reel becomes a bell symbol, and four symbols are aligned on one effective line. To be paid out. Details will be described later with reference to FIG.

  Also, as shown in FIG. 6, in the replay low probability state, when the symbol combination corresponding to the replaying combination 2 is stopped and displayed on the active line, the replay high probability preparation state (RT1) is entered. When the special combination 1 or special combination 2 is won internally, the state shifts to the special combination internal winning state (RT3), and when the special combination is won, the state shifts to the special gaming state (RT4).

<Replay high probability ready state (RT1)>
The re-game high probability ready state is a game state in which the internal winning probability of the re-gamer is higher than that in the low re-game probability state. In the replay high probability preparation state, a winning combination to be internally won is drawn by referring to the lottery table in the column “RT1” on the horizontal axis shown in FIG.

  The condition device (winning combination) that is internally won in the re-probability high probability preparation state includes special combination 1, special combination 2, re-play combination 1, re-play combination 3, 4, small combination 1, and small combination 2 and a small role 3a. In other cases, the winning combination is won, and the symbol combination corresponding to the winning combination is not displayed. The re-game players 3 and 4 will be described in detail later with reference to FIG.

  In addition, as shown in FIG. 6, in the replay high probability ready state, the replaying role that may be displayed as the replaying role 3 is won, and the symbol combination corresponding to the replaying role 3 is on the effective line. When it is stopped and displayed, it shifts to the replay high probability state. On the other hand, in the re-gaming high probability ready state (RT1), the re-game player 4 who is likely to display the re-game player 4 is won, and the symbol combination corresponding to the re-game player 4 is stopped and displayed on the active line. If a prize is won, the game shifts to a replay low probability state (RT0). When the special combination 1 or special combination 2 is won internally, the state shifts to the special combination internal winning state (RT3), and when the special combination is won, the state shifts to the special gaming state (RT4).

<Replay high probability state (RT2)>
The re-game high probability state is a game state in which the internal winning probability of the re-gamer is higher than that of the re-game low probability state. In addition, it is good also as a state where the internal winning probability of a re-game player is higher than the re-game high probability preparation state. In the replay high probability state, the winning combination to be internally won is drawn by referring to the lottery table in the column “RT2” on the horizontal axis shown in FIG.

  In the replay high probability state, the condition device (winning combination) that is won internally includes special combination 1, special combination 2, replay combination 1, small combination 1, small combination 2 and small combination 3a. is there. If the winning combination is not won, the game is lost, and the symbol combination corresponding to the winning combination is not displayed.

  Also, as shown in FIG. 6, in the replay high probability state (RT2), when the bell symbol is stopped and displayed on the upper line, the replay low probability state (RT0) is entered. When the special combination 1 or special combination 2 is won internally, the state shifts to the special combination internal winning state (RT3), and when the special combination is won, the state shifts to the special gaming state (RT4).

<Special role 1 internal winning state (RT3)>
In the case of RT0, RT1 and RT2, if the special combination 1 or special combination 2 is won internally, the state shifts to the special combination internal winning state (RT3).

  The special role internal winning state is a state in which the special role 1 or the special role 2 can be won, and the symbol combination corresponding to the special role can be displayed when the player performs a stop operation at a predetermined timing. A gaming state. In the special combination internal winning state, the winning combination to be won internally is drawn by referring to the lottery table in the column “RT3” on the horizontal axis shown in FIG. The winning combination that is won internally in the special combination internal winning state includes a re-playing combination 1, a small combination 1, a small combination 2, and a small combination 3a. In addition, since the special combination 1 or the special combination 2 is always in the internal winning state, the special combination 1 and the special combination 2 are not drawn. If the winning combination is not won, the game is lost, and the symbol combination corresponding to the winning combination is not displayed.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 6, when a symbol combination corresponding to the special combination is displayed in the special combination internal winning state (RT3), the state shifts to a special game state (RT4) described later.

<Special gaming state (RT4)>
The special gaming state is a gaming state that is more advantageous than the normal gaming state. In the special game state, the winning combination to be won internally is drawn by referring to the lottery table in the column “RT4” on the horizontal axis shown in FIG. The winning combination that is won internally in the special gaming state is a small combination 3b. When the prescribed number is paid out, the game shifts to a low replay probability state.

  The small combination 3b is a winning combination in which a bell symbol is aligned on three active lines, and is controlled so that the middle reel middle symbol becomes a bell symbol regardless of the stop operation sequence. That is, when the small role 3b is won, the first sub-control unit 400, for example, performs the first stop operation with the left stop button 137, the second stop operation with the middle stop button 138, and the third stop operation with the right stop button 139. When the stop operation is performed in the order of stop operations, a predetermined stop mode (a stop in which the bell symbol is stopped at the middle stage of the middle reel and the symbol combination corresponding to the small role 3 is displayed on the three active lines. In the aspect, the reels 110 to 112 are controlled to be stopped.

  And even when operated according to a stop operation sequence different from the above stop operation sequence, the reels 110 to 112 are controlled to stop in the same stop mode. The main control unit 300 gives a predetermined profit (12 payouts) when the stop mode is stopped and displayed.

<Stop operation sequence and game settings>
In the present embodiment, in a predetermined case, game settings with different player advantages are performed according to the stop operation order. More specifically, when the stop operation order satisfies a preset operation condition, a setting that is advantageous to the player or a setting that is disadvantageous may be performed.

  The operation condition may specify all of the first to third stop operations, or any one stop as in the case where only the first stop operation is specified and the second and third stop operations are not specified. Operations may be defined. Further, any two stop operations may be defined.

  In the present embodiment, when a predetermined re-game player is won internally, when a small role 3a is won internally, or in a non-AT game state, a game setting in which the player's advantage differs according to the stop operation order is performed. . Hereinafter, the AT gaming state will be described first, and each case will be described in turn.

<AT gaming state>
. The player recognizes which stop operation order is an advantageous stop operation order for the player or an unfavorable stop operation order unless the slot machine 100 informs the stop operation order. I can't.

  Here, the first sub-control unit 400 and the second sub-control unit 500 notify what stop operation sequence is advantageous when the predetermined condition is satisfied. Such notification effect may be referred to as operation condition notification. In addition, a notification game that is started at the timing when a predetermined start condition is satisfied and continues until a predetermined end condition is satisfied is called an AT game where an operation condition notification is performed. The game state is called a non-AT game state, and the non-AT game state is called.

  The AT gaming state is a gaming state that is more advantageous to the player than the non-AT gaming state and can be continued over a plurality of times. In the present embodiment, when RT1 to RT3 are set, the AT gaming state can be set when the small combination 1 or the small combination 2 is internally won.

  The presence of an AT gaming state and a non-AT gaming state means that it is possible to create a wave of balls. For example, when in the non-AT gaming state, the first sub-control unit 400 does not notify the stop operation order in which the symbol combination corresponding to the re-gamer 2 is stopped on the active line if it is RT0. If it is RT1, the stop of the stop operation order in which the symbol combination corresponding to the re-game player 3 is stopped and displayed on the active line is not performed, and the symbol combination corresponding to the re-game player 4 is not stopped and displayed on the active line The operation order is not notified. In the case of RT2, when the small combination 3a is won internally, the stop operation order in which the symbol combination corresponding to the bell symbol is stopped and displayed on the active line in the middle reel middle symbol is not notified.

  In the case of the AT gaming state, if it is RT0, the stop combination order in which the symbol combination corresponding to the replaying player 2 is stopped and displayed on the active line is notified, and if it is RT1, the replaying player 3 is supported. The stop operation order in which the symbol combination is stopped and displayed on the active line is notified, and the stop operation order in which the symbol combination corresponding to the re-game player 4 is not stopped and displayed on the active line is notified. In the case of RT2, when the small combination 3a is won internally, the stop operation order in which the bell symbol is stopped and displayed on the middle reel middle symbol is notified.

  From these things, it is provided so that the difference between an advantageous state and an unfavorable state can be increased, and a wave of emergence can be created. Further, since the first sub-control unit 400 performs switching between the AT gaming state and the non-AT gaming state, there is an advantage that various play management can be performed within the range of the lottery program performed by the main control unit 300. In the AT gaming state, the probability that the operation condition notification is performed may be higher than in the non-AT gaming state, and in the AT gaming state, the operation condition notification may be always performed.

<Re-player and stop operation sequence>
With reference to FIG. 8, a detailed description will be given of the re-playing combination that is won internally at the same time. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a lottery table in which the re-game players 1 and 2 and the re-game players 3 and 4 of FIG. 7 are described in detail among the lottery tables for winning combinations in each gaming state. The re-game players 1 and 2 will be described in detail.

  In more detail, the replaying roles 1, 2 and 5 are the replaying roles 1, 2, 5, replaying roles 1, 2, 6, The re-playing roles 1, 2, 5, 7 and the re-playing roles 1, 2, 5, 6, 7 are subdivided into 6 types. The lottery values are constant, and the operation conditions are set so that the stop operation order for displaying the re-gamer 2 is different as shown in “Remarks” in the figure.

  For example, the re-players 1, 2, and 5 have a stop operation order of “left, middle, and right” (the first stop operation is the left stop button 137, the second stop operation is the middle stop button 138, and the third stop operation is the right stop. Button 139. The symbol combination corresponding to the replaying combination 2 is displayed on the active line in the case where it is assumed to be a button 139. The symbol combination corresponding to the replaying combination 1 is displayed otherwise. The stop is displayed on the active line.

  If the stop operation order satisfies the re-game 2 winning operation condition, it is relatively advantageous to the player in that it can move from RT0 to RT1, and if the stop operation order does not satisfy the operation condition, the process moves from RT0 to RT1. Since this is relatively disadvantageous to the player in that it cannot be performed, game settings with different player advantages are performed according to the stop operation order.

  In this way, the stop operation order for displaying the re-gamer 2 is “left, middle, right”, “left, right, middle”, “middle, left, right”, “middle, right, left”, “right, left ”Medium” and “Right / Middle / Left” are selected to notify the stop operation sequence for displaying a stop on the active line for the combination of symbols corresponding to the re-gamer 2 in the AT gaming state. The player can be prompted to perform a stop operation to change from RT0 to RT1.

  Next, the re-game players 3 and 4 will be described in detail. The re-game players 3 and 4 are subdivided into 6 types of winning combinations, similar to the re-game games 1 and 2. Each lottery value is constant, and as shown in “Remarks” in the figure, the stop operation order for displaying the stop on the active line for the symbol combination corresponding to the re-gamer 3 is provided differently. .

  When the stop operation order satisfies the replay 3 winning operation condition, it is relatively advantageous to the player in that it can shift from RT1 to RT2, and when the stop operation order does not satisfy the operation condition, the process shifts from RT1 to RT2. In addition to being unable to do so, it is relatively disadvantageous for the player in terms of the transition from RT1 to RT0, so that game settings with different advantages of the player are made according to the stop operation order.

  In this way, the symbol combination corresponding to the re-game player 3 is made effective in the AT gaming state by selecting the stop operation sequence for stopping and displaying the symbol combination corresponding to the re-game player 3 on the active line. The stop operation order for stop display on the line is notified, and the player can be prompted to perform a stop operation to change the gaming state from RT1 to RT2.

  On the other hand, except for the above case, the symbol combination corresponding to the replaying role 4 is stopped and displayed on the active line, but when it is RT1 although it is not in the AT gaming state, a notification for avoiding the display of the replaying role 4 By not performing RT, it is possible to make it difficult to maintain RT1 even though the player is not in the AT gaming state.

<Order of stop operation in non-AT gaming state with small role 3a>
Next, the small combination 3a will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a lottery table in which the small combination 3a is described in detail among the lottery tables for winning combinations in each gaming state. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing, in chronological order, an outline that the operation condition affects the stop display mode of the small role 3a.

  More specifically, the small role 3a has five types of simultaneous winnings of small roles 3, 4, small roles 3, 5, small roles 3, 6, small roles 3, 4, 5, and small roles 3, 4, 6, Divided into roles. The respective lottery values are as shown in FIG. 10, and the stop operation order for displaying the bell symbol on the middle reel middle symbol as shown in the “remarks” in the figure is different.

  For example, for the small roles 3 and 4, when a stop operation is performed in the order of “left, middle, and right”, a bell symbol is displayed on the middle stage of the middle reel, and a bell symbol is displayed on the upper stage of the middle reel in other cases I do it.

  If the stop operation order satisfies the operation condition for displaying the bell symbol on the upper middle reel, it is relatively advantageous to the player in terms of the number of payouts, and if the stop operation order does not satisfy the operation conditions, the payout number Since this is relatively disadvantageous to the player, game settings with different advantages of the player are performed according to the stop operation order.

  In this way, the stop operation order for displaying the bell symbol in the middle stage of the middle reel is “left, middle, right”, “left, right, middle”, “middle, left, right or middle, right, left”, “right, By selecting 5 options for “Left, Middle” and “Right, Middle, Left”, in the AT state, which will be described later, the stop operation sequence for displaying the bell symbol on the middle stage of the middle reel is notified, and compared with the case where no notification is made. More profits can be given to the player.

  In the case of small roles 3, 4 and small roles 3, 5 and other small roles 3, 6, small roles 3, 4, 5, small roles 3, 4, 6, the internal winning probability is Is different. As a result, the correct operation sequence is biased.

  In the case of this embodiment, in the non-AT gaming state in which the operation order is not notified, a penalty is set when the first stop is other than the left reel. In this embodiment, the penalty is a period in which the period for notifying the operation order is not set (hereinafter referred to as a penalty period). In other words, even if the small combination 1 or the small combination 2 is won internally, the AT gaming state cannot be set. In this embodiment, the penalty content is as described above, but any content may be used as long as it is disadvantageous to the player.

  When the stop operation order satisfies the operation condition that the first stop operation is the left reel, it is relatively advantageous to the player in that no penalty period is set, and when the stop operation order does not satisfy the operation condition, Since the penalty period is relatively disadvantageous for the player, the game setting is performed with different player advantages according to the stop operation order.

  In the AT gaming state in which the operation order is notified, the first stop is allowed except for the left reel, and the correct operation order is notified. In this way, the difference in expected amount of game media that can be acquired by the player between the period in which the operation order is notified and the period in which the operation order is not performed can be increased, and the interest of the game can be improved.

  Specifically, the case where the small combination 3, 4 or the small combination 3, 4, 6 is won internally will be described as an example with reference to FIG.

  First, when the small roles 3 and 4 are won internally, when the small roles 3 and 4 are stopped in the “left, middle, right” stop operation sequence, the middle reel middle stage symbol is stopped and displayed as a bell symbol. Therefore, when the stop operation is performed in the order of the “left, middle, right” stop operation, the middle reel middle stage symbol is stopped and displayed as a bell symbol as shown in FIG.

  On the other hand, when the stop operation is not performed in the “left, middle, right” stop operation order, the middle reel upper symbol is stopped and displayed as a bell symbol as shown in FIG.

  Next, when the small roles 3, 4, 6 are elected internally, when the small roles 3, 4, 6 are stopped in the “right, middle, left” stop operation sequence, the middle reel middle symbol is the bell symbol. As shown in FIG. 10C, when the stop operation is performed in the order of “right, middle, left” stop operation, the middle reel middle stage symbol is stopped and displayed as a bell symbol. .

  On the other hand, when the stop operation is not performed in the “right, middle, left” stop operation order, the middle reel upper symbol is stopped and displayed as a bell symbol as shown in FIG.

<Processing of main control unit>
Next, the main process of the main control unit 300 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing a flow of main processing of the main control unit 300. Basic control of the game is performed mainly by the CPU 304 of the main controller 300, and the CPU 304 repeatedly executes the main process of the main controller shown in FIG.

  When power is supplied to the slot machine 100, first, various initialization processes are executed in S1. In S2, processing regarding medal insertion / start operation is performed. First, the main control unit 300 determines whether or not an electronic medal insertion operation using the one-bet bet button 130, the two-bet bet button 131, and the MAX bet button 132 or a direct medal insertion operation from the insertion port 141 is performed. Is determined by detection by the sensor circuit 320, and when there is an insertion operation, the winning line display lamp 120 is turned on according to the number of received medals. In the case where the player has won the re-game player in the previous game, the same number of bets as the previous game can be played without additional insertion of medals.

  Further, the main control unit 300 advances the game to a state in which the sensor circuit 320 detects whether or not the start lever 135 has been operated as the number of bets has reached 3, and the start lever 135 has been operated. If it is determined that it has been made, the number of inserted medals is confirmed, and the process proceeds to S3.

  In S3, a valid winning line is determined. In S4, the random number generated by the random value generation circuit 316 is acquired. In S5, a winning combination internal lottery process is performed. Here, at least an internal lottery for lottery of internal winning of the combination is performed. Moreover, you may perform the lottery (for example, the lottery which selects the content of production from multiple types) regarding an effect.

  In the internal lottery of the combination, the combination lottery table stored in the ROM 306 is read according to the current gaming state, and the lottery is performed using this and the random value acquired in S4. As a result of the internal lottery, when an internal winning is made for any combination, the internal winning flag of that combination is turned ON.

  In S6, reel stop data is selected based on the internal lottery result. The operation conditions are set for the reel stop data of the combination whose stop operation order is questioned. When the reel stop data corresponding to these is selected, the operation conditions are also set. In this way, operating conditions are set when a specific combination is won internally. When a stop operation that violates the operation condition is performed, control is performed so that the corresponding symbol combination is not displayed.

  In S7, reel control for starting rotation of all the reels 110 to 112 is performed. In S8, the stop buttons 137 to 139 can be received. When any one of the stop buttons is pressed, any of the reels 110 to 112 corresponding to the pressed stop button is selected based on the reel stop data selected in S6. Stop.

  That is, the reel stop control is based on the result of the internal lottery in S5 and the timing of the stop operation. In the reel stop control, basically, if there is an internal winning combination, it is allowed to display a symbol combination corresponding to that combination, and in the case of a loss, any combination of symbols corresponding to any combination is allowed. The reel stop control such as so-called pull-in / kick-up is performed so as not to be displayed.

  In S7, every time the first stop operation, the second stop operation, and the third stop operation are accepted, a command including information regarding which stop button is operated and information regarding when the stop button is operated is transmitted. Make preparations. These prepared commands are transmitted to the first sub control unit 400 in S266 of the main control unit timer interrupt process of FIG.

  When all the reels 110 to 112 are stopped, the process proceeds to S9. In S9, a winning determination is performed. Here, when a symbol combination corresponding to some combination is displayed on the activated winning line 114, it is determined that the combination is won. Also, the internal winning flag is reset unless the flag is carried over.

  In S10, if any winning combination is paid out, the number of medals corresponding to the winning combination is paid out according to the number of winning lines. In S11, a game state control process is performed. In the gaming state control process, control for shifting the gaming state is performed. For example, when the special combination 1 wins, a special gaming state is prepared so that a special gaming state can be started from the next game. If the payout number of payouts is paid out, preparations are made so that a low-replay low-probability gaming state can be started next time.

  Thus, in this embodiment, a privilege is given to the player based on the combination of symbols that are stopped and displayed. Thus, one game is completed. Thereafter, the game proceeds by returning to S2 and repeating the above-described processing.

  Next, a timer interrupt process executed by the CPU 304 of the main control unit 300 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing the flow of timer interrupt processing performed by the main control unit 300.

  The main control unit 300 includes a counter timer 312 that generates a timer interrupt signal at a predetermined cycle (in this embodiment, about once every 2 ms), and the main control unit timer interrupt is triggered by this timer interrupt signal. The process is started at a predetermined cycle.

  In S21, a timer interrupt start process is performed. In this timer interrupt start process, a process of temporarily saving each register value of the CPU 304 to the stack area is performed. In S22, WDT (watchdog timer) is restarted.

  In S23, input port state update processing is performed. In this input port state update process, the detection results of a plurality of sensors connected to the sensor circuit 320 are monitored via the input port of I / 0310, and the monitoring results are provided in the RAM 308 for each sensor. Store the storage area.

  FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing the flow of the input port state update process of S23, and is a diagram that explains the process contents, particularly focusing on processes related to detection of a stop operation. In S31, the presence / absence of a stop operation for all the stop buttons 137 to 139 is detected with reference to the data of the input port to which the detection result of the stop button sensor is input among the input ports of I / 0310.

  In S32, the information on the stop operation state for each of the stop buttons 137 to 139 stored in the signal state storage area is updated. This information is all reset without a stop operation at the start of the game, and updated with a stop operation when the stop operation is confirmed. Based on this information, it is possible to determine whether or not a stop button (reel) that has been newly stopped is specified or whether a plurality of stop operations have been performed simultaneously.

  In S33, the symbol positions (reel stop positions) of the corresponding reels 110 to 112 where the stop operation is detected are acquired and stored as a part of the reel information stored in a predetermined area of the RAM 308. In addition to this, the reel information includes information on whether each reel is rotating or stopped (including during stop control). In S34, the detection result of each sensor other than the stop button sensor is monitored and information is updated. Thus, one unit of processing is completed.

  Returning to FIG. 12, in S24, various game processes are performed. Specifically, an interrupt status is acquired (various interrupt statuses are acquired based on signals from various sensors), and processing according to this status is performed. For example, if the interrupt status is in the medal insertion process, the medal insertion acceptance process is performed. If the interrupt status is in the payout process, the medal payout process is performed.

  In S25, timer update processing is performed. Various timers are updated for each time unit. In S26, command setting transmission processing is performed, and various set commands are transmitted to the sub-control unit 400. The sub-control unit 400 can determine the presentation control according to the change of the game control in the main control unit 300 by the received command. In S27, external signal setting processing is performed. Here, predetermined information (for example, information relating to the gaming state) is transmitted from the information output circuit 334 to the information input circuit 652 of the external device.

  In S28, device monitoring processing is performed. Here, an error state of various devices such as the medal selector 170 is monitored. In S29, it is monitored whether or not the low voltage signal is on. When the low voltage signal is on (when the power supply is detected to be cut off), the process proceeds to S31. When the low voltage signal is off (when the power supply is not cut off), the process proceeds to S30.

  In S30, various processes for ending the timer interrupt end process are performed. In this timer interrupt end process, the value of each register temporarily saved in S31 is set in each original register. On the other hand, in S31, a specific variable or stack pointer for returning to the power-off state at the time of power recovery is saved as a return data in a predetermined area of the RAM 308, and power-off processing such as initialization of an input / output port is performed. .

<Processing of first sub-control unit>
Processing of the first sub control unit 400 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 14 is a flowchart of processing executed by the first sub-control unit 400. FIG. 14A is a flowchart of main processing executed by the CPU 404 of the first sub-control unit 400. FIG. 5B is a flowchart of command reception interrupt processing of the first sub control unit 400. FIG. 5C is a flowchart of the timer interrupt process of the first sub control unit 400.

  The main process of the first sub control unit 400 is executed when a reset signal is input to the first sub control unit 400. First, in S41 of FIG. 11A, various initial settings are performed. When the power is turned on, an initialization process is first executed in S41. In this initialization processing, initialization of input / output ports, initialization processing of a storage area in the RAM 408, and the like are performed.

  In S42, it is determined whether or not the timer variable stored in the timer variable storage area which is a predetermined storage area of the RAM 408 of the first sub-control unit 400 is 10 or more, and this process is repeated until the timer variable becomes 10. When the timer variable becomes 10 or more, the process proceeds to S43. In S43, 0 is assigned to the timer variable.

  In S44, a first sub-control unit command process is performed. The CPU 404 of the first sub-control unit 400 determines whether or not a command has been received from the main control unit 300, and when receiving a command, performs a predetermined process according to the received command. In S45, an effect control process is performed. Here, processing related to effect control such as setting of effect data is performed based on the processing executed in S44.

  In S46, if there is a command to the sound source IC 418 in the effect data read in S45, this command is output to the sound source IC 418. In S47, if there is a command to the various lamps 420 in the effect data read in S45, this command is output to the drive circuit 422. In S48, when there is a control command to be transmitted to the second sub-control unit 500 in the effect data read out in S45, the control command is set to be output, and the process returns to S42. Thus, one unit of main processing is completed.

  Next, the command reception interrupt process of the first sub-control unit 400 will be described using FIG. This command reception interrupt process is a process executed when the first sub-control unit 400 detects a strobe signal output from the main control unit 300.

  In S51, the command output from the main control unit 300 is stored in the command storage area provided in the RAM 408 as an unprocessed command. Thus, one unit of command reception interrupt processing is completed.

  Next, the first sub control unit timer interrupt process executed by the CPU 404 of the first sub control unit 400 will be described with reference to FIG. The first sub-control unit 400 includes a hardware timer that generates a timer interrupt at a predetermined cycle (in this embodiment, once every 2 ms). Execute in the cycle.

  In S61, 1 is added to the value of the timer variable storage area of the RAM 408 described in S42 in the first sub-control unit main process shown in FIG. Therefore, in S32 of FIG. 9A, the value of the timer variable is determined to be 10 or more every 20 ms (2 ms × 10).

  In S62, various update processes are performed. For example, transmission of a control command to the second sub-control unit 500, update processing of various random numbers such as a rendering random number value, and the like are performed. Thus, one unit of timer interrupt processing is completed.

<Processing of second sub-control unit>
Next, processing of the second sub control unit 500 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 15 is a flowchart of the process of the second sub control unit 500. FIG. 6A is a flowchart of main processing executed by the CPU 504 of the second sub-control unit 500. FIG. 7B is a flowchart of command reception interrupt processing of the second sub control unit 500. FIG. 8C is a flowchart of the timer interrupt process of the second sub control unit 500. FIG. 4D is a flowchart of the image control process of the second sub control unit 500.

  First, in S71 of FIG. 9A, various initial settings are performed. When the power is turned on, an initialization process is first executed in S1501. In this initialization process, input / output port initialization, storage area initialization in the RAM 508, and the like are performed.

  In S72, it is determined whether or not the timer variable is 10 or more, and this process is repeated until the timer variable becomes 10. When the timer variable becomes 10 or more, the process proceeds to S73.

  In S73, 0 is substituted for the timer variable. In S74, command processing is performed. The CPU 504 of the second sub control unit 500 determines whether a command has been received from the CPU 404 of the first sub control unit 400. In S75, an effect control process is performed. For example, when there is a new command in S74, the effect data corresponding to this command is read from the ROM 506, and when the effect data needs to be updated, the effect data is updated.

  In S76, when there is a shutter control command in the effect data read in S74, shutter control corresponding to this command is performed. In S77, if there is an image control command in the effect data read in S74, image control corresponding to this command is performed (details will be described later), and the process returns to S7. For example, when there is an image control command (image display command) related to the operation condition notification from the first sub-control unit 400, the suggestion notification or the operation condition notification based on the image is executed based on this control command. Thus, one unit of main processing is completed.

  Next, the command reception interrupt process of the second sub control unit 500 will be described with reference to FIG. This command reception interrupt process is a process executed when the second sub control unit 500 detects the strobe signal output from the first sub control unit 400. In S81 of the command reception interrupt process, the command output from the first sub control unit 400 is stored as an unprocessed command in a command storage area provided in the RAM 508. Thus, one unit of command reception interrupt processing is completed.

  Next, the second sub control unit timer interrupt process executed by the CPU 504 of the second sub control unit 500 will be described with reference to FIG. The second sub-control unit 500 includes a hardware timer that generates a timer interrupt at a predetermined cycle (in this embodiment, once every 2 ms), and the timer interrupt process is predetermined by using the timer interrupt as a trigger. Execute in the cycle. In S91, the timer variable referred to in S72 of FIG. In S102, various update processes are performed. Thus, one unit of timer interrupt processing is completed.

  Next, the image control process of S77 in the main process of the second sub-control unit 500 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing the flow of image control processing.

  In S101, an instruction to transfer image data is issued. Here, the CPU 504 first swaps the designation of the display areas A and B in the VRAM 536. As a result, an image of one frame stored in the display area not designated as the drawing area is displayed on the effect image display device 157. Next, the CPU 504 sets ROM coordinates (transfer source address of the ROM 506), VRAM coordinates (transfer destination address of the VRAM 536), and the like in the attribute register of the VDP 534 based on the position information table and the like, and then the image from the ROM 506 to the VRAM 536. Set an instruction to start data transfer. The VDP 534 transfers the image data from the ROM 506 to the VRAM 536 based on the command set in the attribute register. Thereafter, the VDP 536 outputs a transfer end interrupt signal to the CPU 504.

  In S102, it is determined whether or not a transfer end interrupt signal is input from the VDP 534. If a transfer end interrupt signal is input, the process proceeds to S103. If not, a transfer end interrupt signal is input. Wait for. In S103, parameters are set based on the production scenario configuration table and attribute data. Here, in order to form a display image in the display area A or B of the VRAM 536 based on the image data transferred to the VRAM 536 in S101, the CPU 504 has information on the image data constituting the display image (coordinate axes, image size, VRAM 536). VRAM coordinates (arrangement coordinates, etc.) are instructed to the VDP 534. The VDP 534 performs parameter setting in accordance with the attribute based on the instruction stored in the attribute register.

  In S104, a drawing instruction is performed. In this drawing instruction, the CPU 504 instructs the VDP 534 to start drawing an image. The VDP 534 starts drawing an image in the frame buffer in accordance with an instruction from the CPU 504. In S105, it is determined whether or not a generation end interrupt signal from the VDP 534 is input based on the end of image drawing. If the generation end interrupt signal is input, the process proceeds to S106. If not, the generation end interrupt signal is input. Wait for it. In S106, a scene display counter that is set in a predetermined area of the RAM 508 and counts how many scene images have been generated is incremented (+1), and one unit of image control processing ends.

<Simultaneous stop operation>
In this embodiment, a time zone (invalidity period) during which the operation is invalidated is not set between the first to third stop operations, and the player is allowed to perform the first to third stop operations quickly and continuously. To do. Thereby, smooth game progress can be realized.

  In this case, depending on the player's stop operation mode, stop operations for a plurality of reels may be detected simultaneously. For example, this is a case where operations on the stop button 137 and the stop button 138 are detected simultaneously for control purposes. In the present embodiment, when such a simultaneous stop operation is detected, it is accepted. Thereby, smoother game progression can be realized.

  On the other hand, in this embodiment, the stop operation order may affect game settings with different player advantages, and it is necessary to determine one stop operation order for the game settings. In this regard, in the present embodiment, it is assumed that the stop operation is performed in an operation order other than the operation order having the lowest advantage among the operation orders that can be defined from the stop operations received at the same time. Depending on the game settings. As a result, the most disadvantageous game setting for the player is avoided, so that the interest of the game can be prevented from decreasing.

  For example, when two of the stop buttons 137 to 139 are operated at the same time, the operation order that can be defined from the stop operations received at the same time is a maximum of two definable operation orders. In addition, when three are operated at the same time, the maximum number of operations that can be defined is six.

  The operation order other than the operation order having the lowest advantage is, for example, an operation order in which game settings that are relatively advantageous to the player are performed when there are two definable operation orders. In the penalty period setting described above, for example, in the non-AT gaming state, when the first stop operation and the second stop operation are performed at the same time, and the corresponding stop buttons 137 and 138 for the left reel and the middle reel are operated at the same time. The operation on the stop button 137 corresponding to the left reel is defined as a first stop operation.

  FIG. 16 is an explanatory diagram showing an example in which the first and second stop operations are simultaneously performed on the stop buttons 137 and 138. In this case, as shown in the left column of the figure, the operation on the stop button 137 corresponding to the left reel is a first stop operation, and the second stop operation is performed on the stop button 138 corresponding to the middle reel.

  Further, there are six operation sequences that can be defined, one of which is the game setting that is most disadvantageous to the player, and one of which is the game setting that is most advantageous to the player, When the remaining four game settings are performed in the middle, the operation order is one of the latter five.

  Thus, when there are a plurality of operation orders other than the operation order with the lowest advantage, any one may be determined by lottery, or the most advantageous for the player may be determined. Furthermore, since the combination of the operation order and the player's advantage is finite, and the number of patterns to be stopped at the same time is also limited, if there are multiple operation orders other than the operation order with the lowest advantage, It may be determined in advance, and the specific operation order may be determined. By determining in advance, the operation order can be easily determined.

  As a method for predetermining the operation order, there is a method of storing table data that tabulates the relationship between a pattern that is simultaneously stopped and a specific operation order. As another method, there is a method by processing branching in a program executed by the control unit. For example, two patterns of A and B are assumed as the patterns to be stopped at the same time, the corresponding specific operation order is A1 and B1, and the processing when the operation order is determined as A1 is determined as A2 and B1. It is assumed that the process in the case of being performed is B2. In this case, the table data as described above is prepared by branching the process so that the process A2 is performed when the pattern A is confirmed in the program and the process B2 is performed when the pattern B is confirmed. In addition, the operation order can be determined only by the contents of the program.

  Next, even when all of the operation sequences that can be defined from the stop operations received at the same time do not have the superiority or inferiority of the game setting advantages, a lottery or a predetermined operation sequence can be similarly set. FIG. 17 is an explanatory diagram, and assumes an example of setting the penalty period described above. In the example of the figure, an example in which the first and second stop operations are simultaneously performed on the stop buttons 138 and 139 is shown. In this case, regardless of which is the first stop operation, a penalty period is set, and there is no superiority or inferiority. Therefore, whichever may be the first stop operation, as shown in the left column of the figure, the operation on the stop button 138 corresponding to the middle reel is defined as the first stop operation, and the first stop operation on the stop button 139 corresponding to the right reel. 2 Stop operation.

  Also, when the player's advantage is confirmed by the already performed stop operation, and all of the operation orders that can be defined from the stop operation accepted at the same time, the player's advantage is not superior or inferior, Similarly, a lottery or a predetermined operation order can be used. FIG. 18 is an explanatory diagram of this, assuming an example of setting the penalty period described above. In the example of the figure, after the first stop operation is performed on the stop button 137 and the left reel is stopped, the second and third stop operations are performed on the stop buttons 138 and 139 at the same time. . In this case, a penalty period is set regardless of which is the second stop operation, and superiority or inferiority is not achieved. Therefore, whichever may be the second stop operation, as shown in the left column of the figure, the operation on the stop button 138 corresponding to the middle reel is the first stop operation, and the second stop operation on the stop button 139 corresponding to the right reel is performed. 2 Stop operation.

  The example in FIG. 19 assumes an example of setting the penalty period described above, and shows an example in which the first to third stop operations are performed simultaneously. In this case, except for the case where the stop operation on the left reel 110 is the first stop operation, a game setting (penalty period) that is uniformly disadvantageous to the player is made. Therefore, the first stop operation is an operation on the stop button 137 corresponding to the left reel, as shown in the left column of FIG. The second and third stop operations may be either the middle reel or the right reel, and in the example of the figure, the order is the middle reel → the right reel.

  The determination of the operation order described above may be performed only for a specific game setting. For example, in the present embodiment, as described above, according to the stop operation order when a predetermined replaying role is won internally, when a small role 3a is won internally, or in a non-AT gaming state (setting of a penalty period) However, only in the non-AT gaming state (setting the penalty period), the stop operation is performed in an operation order other than the operation order with the lowest advantage. On the other hand, in the case where a predetermined re-playing combination is won internally, or in the case where the small combination 3a is won internally, a lottery or a predetermined operation order may be used.

<Example of reel stop control>
An example of the reel stop control process in S8 including the process of determining the operation order when simultaneous stop operations are performed will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 20 is a flowchart thereof. In S111, it is determined whether or not the stop operation is permitted. For example, the stop operation is permitted when a constant speed is reached after the rotation of the reels 110 to 112 is started. If applicable, the process proceeds to S112, and if not applicable, the process waits.

  In S112, the information of the stop operation state updated in S32 of FIG. 13 is acquired, and it is determined whether or not there is a new stop operation. If applicable, the process proceeds to S113, and if not applicable, the process waits. In S113, it is further determined whether or not a simultaneous stop operation has been performed from the information on the stop operation state. If applicable, the process proceeds to S114, and if not, the process proceeds to S115.

  In S114, the operation order is determined. The determination method is as described above, and an operation order other than the operation order having the lowest advantage is determined. In the case of a normal stop operation in which the stop operation order is not related to the player's advantage, the operation order is determined by lottery or a predetermined operation order (for example, left, middle, and right is given priority). ). By doing so, the simultaneous stop operation can be accepted in any case.

  In S115, the symbol position of the reel to be stopped in the reel information stored in the RAM 308 is referred to. The stop target reels are non-stop reels in accordance with the operation order determined in S114 in the case of simultaneous stop operations, and in the case of simultaneous stop operations, in the case of simultaneous stop operations. In S116, the reel to be stopped is stopped based on the symbol position referenced in S115 and the stop data set in S6. In S117, the reel information is updated for the reel to be stopped (during rotation → stopping).

  In S118, preparation for transmitting a stop command indicating that the reel to be stopped has been stopped to the first sub-control unit 400 is performed (the stop command is transmitted in S26). In S119, it is determined whether or not there is an unstopped reel among the reels for which the simultaneous operation is performed and the operation order is determined. If applicable, the non-stop reel is set as a stop target reel, and the process returns to S115. If not, the process proceeds to S120.

  In S120, it is determined whether or not all reels have been stopped. If applicable, the process of one unit is terminated. If not, the process returns to S112 to wait for a stop operation for an unstopped reel and repeat the same process.

<Production control processing>
Next, the process which the 1st sub control part 400 performs about the production | presentation regarding stop operation is demonstrated. FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing an example of the effect control process in S45.

  In S131, it is determined whether the target command of the command processing in S44 is an internal winning command. If applicable, the process proceeds to S132, and if not, the process proceeds to S133. In S132, an internal winning command reception process is performed. Details will be described later.

  In S133, it is determined whether the target command of the command processing in S44 is a stop command. If applicable, the process proceeds to S134, and if not, the process proceeds to S135. In S134, stop command reception processing is performed. Details will be described later. In S135, other processing is performed. Thus, one unit of effect control processing is completed.

<Process when receiving internal winning command>
FIG. 22 is a flowchart of the internal winning command reception process in S132. In S141, it is determined whether or not the current game is an AT game state with reference to the AT flag set in a predetermined area of the RAM 408. If applicable, the process proceeds to S142, and if not, the process proceeds to S143. In S142, notification effect data is read. Details will be described later. In S143, AT setting processing is performed. Details will be described later. In S144, an AT lottery process is performed. Details will be described later.

<Reading processing of effect data for notification>
FIG. 23 is a flowchart of the notification effect data read processing in S142. In S151, it is determined whether or not the re-game players 1 and 2 have been won internally. If applicable, the process proceeds to S152; otherwise, the process proceeds to S153.

  In S152, the effect data for notifying the operation order for displaying (winning) the re-gamer 2 is read, and one unit of processing is completed. This effect data is set in the processing of S46 to S48, and a notification effect is made. By performing the stop operation according to this notification, the player can win the re-game player 2.

  In S153, it is determined whether or not the re-game players 3 and 4 are internally won. If applicable, the process proceeds to S154, and if not, the process proceeds to S155. In S154, the effect data for notifying the operation order for displaying (winning) the re-playing combination 3 is read, and one unit of processing is completed. This effect data is set in the processing of S46 to S48, and a notification effect is made. By performing the stop operation according to this notification, the player can win the re-game player 3.

  In S155, it is determined whether or not the small combination 3a has been won internally. If applicable, the process proceeds to S156, and if not, one unit of processing is terminated. In S1546, the effect data for informing the operation order for displaying the bell symbol on the middle stage of the middle reel is read, and one unit of processing is completed. This effect data is set in the processing of S46 to S48, and a notification effect is made. By performing the stop operation in accordance with this notification, the player can stop the bell symbol at the middle stage of the middle reel, and can win the small role 3a.

<AT setting process>
FIG. 24 is a flowchart of the AT setting process in S143. In S161, it is determined whether or not there is a remaining AT count. The remaining AT number is the number of AT games that the player can play. If there is a remaining AT count, the process proceeds to S162. If there is no remaining AT count, the process of one unit is terminated. In S162, it is determined whether or not the penalty game number (natural number) is set to 1 or more. If applicable, the AT flag is turned OFF (indicating a non-AT gaming state), and one unit of processing is terminated. With this process, even if there are remaining ATs, the AT gaming state is not entered during the penalty period. If not applicable, the process proceeds to S163, and the AT flag is set to ON (indicating AT gaming state). Also, the remaining AT count is decremented by one. Thus, one unit of processing is completed.

<AT lottery processing>
FIG. 25 is a flowchart of the AT lottery process in S144. In S171, it is determined whether or not the number of penalty games is set to 1 or more. If applicable, the process proceeds to S175. If not, the process is not a penalty period, and the process proceeds to S172 related to setting of the AT gaming state.

  In S172, it is determined whether or not a small combination 1 or a small combination 2 has been won internally. If applicable, the process proceeds to S173 in order to newly or continuously set the AT gaming state. If not applicable, one unit of processing is terminated. In S173, the number of games in the AT gaming state (AT number) is set. Although it is set by lottery here, it may be a predetermined number of times. In addition, the lottery may include the case of winning the 0th time, and the AT gaming state may be virtually not set when the 0th time is won.

  In S174, the number of remaining ATs is updated by adding the number of ATs won in S173 to the number of remaining ATs.

  In S175, one penalty game number is subtracted. Thus, one unit of processing is completed. In the present embodiment, the penalty period is configured not to draw the number of ATs, but for example, a configuration in which the penalty period has a low probability of winning the AT number or the number of ATs to be won can be adopted. .

<Processing when a stop command is accepted>
FIG. 26 is a flowchart of the stop command reception process in S134. In S181, it is determined whether or not the current stop command is a stop command for the first stop operation. If applicable, the process proceeds to S182, and if not, one unit of processing is terminated. In S182, a stop command is also issued, and it is determined whether or not the first stop operation is an operation on the stop button 137 corresponding to the left reel 110. If applicable, the process of one unit is terminated. If not, the process proceeds to S183.

  In S183, it is determined by referring to the AT flag whether or not the current gaming state is the AT gaming state. If applicable, one unit of processing is terminated, and if not applicable (non-AT gaming state), the process proceeds to S184.

  In S184, the number of penalty games is updated. Here, the number of additional penalty games is determined by lottery or a predetermined number of times, and is updated by adding to the current number of penalty games. That is, in the non-AT gaming state, the penalty period is set because the first stop is other than the left reel. Thus, one unit of processing is completed.

<Second Embodiment>
As a method of selecting reel stop data in the second and third stop operations in the first embodiment, a group of reel stop data is selected in S6 and based on the symbol position of the reel that has been stopped first in S8 (FIG. 20). The final reel stop data of the next reel can be selected.

  However, in this method, when the simultaneous stop operation is performed, if the reel to be stopped first does not stop, the reel stop data of the reel to be stopped next cannot be finally determined, and the stop of the reel may be delayed. is there.

  On the other hand, even when the simultaneous stop operation is performed, if the operation order is determined, the symbol position of the reel at the time of stop can be determined regardless of whether the reel to be stopped first stops. Therefore, regardless of whether or not the reel to be stopped first is stopped, the symbol position of the reel at the time of stop is determined, the reel stop data of the reel to be stopped next is finally determined, and the CPU 304 determines the reel The stop process (S116) is performed by another loop interrupt process or by the motor control circuit. Thereby, the stop of the reel can be accelerated. In particular, when the stop operation is performed in a specific operation order determined in advance when simultaneous stop operations are performed, not only can the operation order be determined easily, but also the processing load of the CPU 304 Can be reduced.

  FIG. 27 shows an example of reel stop control processing at the time of simultaneous stop operation in this embodiment, and corresponds to S114 to S119 in the example of FIG.

  In S191, the operation order is determined. This is the same processing as S114. In S192, the symbol position of the reel to be stopped in the reel information stored in the RAM 308 is referred to. This is a non-stop reel that is the same processing as S115 and that follows the operation order determined in S191.

  In S193, reel stop data is prepared based on the symbol position referenced in S192 and the stop data set in S6. If there is a reel that has already been stopped or is being stopped, reel stop data is selected and prepared based on the stop symbol position. Then, the stop symbol position after the stop of the reel to be stopped is determined. In S194, an instruction is given to stop at the stop symbol position determined in S193. The target of the instruction is to pass the instruction content to the interrupt process when the reel stop process is performed in another loop interrupt process, and to set the instruction content to the motor control circuit and execute it when the motor control circuit performs the process. .

  In S195, the reel information is updated for the stop target reel (during rotation → stopping). In S196, preparation for transmitting a stop command indicating that the reel to be stopped has been stopped to the first sub-control unit 400 is made (the stop command is transmitted in S26). Thereafter, the process returns to S192, and the same processing is executed until there is no unprocessed reel among the reels that have been moved down and down at the same time.

  By performing the processing in this way, it is possible to proceed to the stop processing of the reel scheduled to be stopped next without waiting for the completion of the stop of the reel scheduled to stop first. As a result, for example, when the stop operation order is determined in the order of left reel → middle reel, if the number of sliding pieces of the left reel is large, the middle reel may complete the stop first.

  FIG. 28 shows an example. In the example of the figure, the first and second stop operations are simultaneously performed on the stop buttons 137 and 138 (the uppermost figure). The determination of the operation order assumes a case where the operation on the stop button 137 corresponding to the left reel is the first stop operation and the second stop operation is performed on the stop button 138 corresponding to the middle reel.

  Therefore, first, the left reel 110 is stopped (second stage diagram). However, the left reel 110 has a large number of sliding pieces, and as a result of the middle reel 111 stopping almost without sliding, the middle reel 111 is stopped before the stop of the left reel 110 is completed (the third stage figure). Thereafter, the stop of the left reel 110 is also completed (the lowermost figure).

  In this way, the appearance and the stop order are different from the determination of the operation order, but the determination of the operation order itself is handled as determined in S191. Therefore, the determination of the satisfaction of the operation condition is based on the determination in S191.

<Third Embodiment>
In the configuration where the winning and winning prizes are superior or inferior depending on the stop operation order on the symbol arrangement, when simultaneous stop operation is performed, the operation order with the lowest advantage, that is, the operation order that makes it easy to win, not the operation order that tends to be non-winning. It may be determined. FIG. 29 is a diagram showing a symbol arrangement in the present embodiment. A difference from the example of FIG. 4 is that the number 18 of the left reel 110 is a cherry symbol.

  FIG. 30 is a diagram showing the types of winning combinations (including actuating combinations), symbol combinations corresponding to each winning combination, and the operation or payout of each winning combination in the present embodiment. In the example shown in the figure, unlike the first embodiment, there are three types of re-playing combinations, three types of small combinations: small combination 1 ', small combination 2, and small combination 3'. As the gaming state, RT0, RT3, and RT4 are assumed and RT1 and RT2 are not assumed, but of course, RT1 and RT2 may be included.

  In the case of the present embodiment, a plurality of symbols (here, bell symbols) of a specific winning combination (here, small portion 3 ′) on all reels 110 to 112 are arranged within a range that can be drawn (5 frames). Within). In addition, in a specific reel (here, the left reel 110), a symbol (here, a small role 1 ') of a winning combination (here, a small role 1') that is adjacent to the symbol (bell symbol) of any other reel (cherry here). Symbols) are arranged (number 18, number 19).

  In the case where a small combination 3 'is won internally and the first stop operation is performed on the left reel 110, the probability of pulling in the bell symbol is 100%. Since there is no internal winning, control is performed so that the cherry symbol number 18 is not displayed. The bell symbols are aligned regardless of the timing of the second stop operation and the third stop operation. Therefore, when the first stop operation is performed on the left reel 110, the 100% small combination 3 'is won.

  FIG. 31A is an explanatory diagram thereof. In the example of the figure, the first stop operation is performed on the left reel 110 (second stage), and at this time, stop control is performed so that the cherry symbol is not displayed. A second stop operation is performed on the middle reel 111 (third stage), and a third stop operation is performed on the right reel 112 (lowermost stage). In both cases, the bell symbols are drawn and the combinations of bell symbols are displayed together.

  Next, when the small combination 3 ′ is won internally, and the third stop operation is performed on the left reel 110, the bell symbol may not be drawn depending on the timing of the stop operation.

  FIG. 31B is an explanatory diagram thereof. In the example of the figure, the first and second stop operations are performed on the right reel 110 and the middle reel 111 (second stage). In both cases, the bell symbols are drawn and the combinations of bell symbols are displayed together.

  It is assumed that the third stop operation is performed on the left reel 110 and that the stop operation is performed at the timing when the cherry symbol (number 18) is displayed (third stage). In this case, although the bell symbol of No. 19 is located in the middle stage, if the cherry symbol is displayed, it becomes a wrong prize, so the left reel 110 cannot be stopped at this position. Therefore, as shown in the lowermost row, the left reel 110 is stopped by advancing one frame, and the combination of bell symbols is not aligned. Therefore, when the third stop operation is performed on the left reel 110, the 100% small combination 3 'is not won.

  In such a case, for example, when the left reel 110 and the middle reel 111 or the right reel 112 are first stopped at the same time, or when all the reels 110 to 112 are simultaneously stopped, the operation order is determined. The first stop operation is the left reel 110. In this way, an operation order other than the operation order having the lowest advantage can be determined. In addition, the fun of the game is further improved by making the internal winning probability of the small role (here, small role 3 ') that wins the superiority or inferiority of the winning combination according to the stop operation order as the highest small role among the small roles. It becomes possible to do.

<Fourth embodiment>
As a method of notifying the player that the bonus combination is won internally, there is a method of displaying so-called reach eyes. The reach is a combination of symbols indicating that a bonus combination is being won internally.

  FIGS. 32A to 32C show examples of reach eyes. The example of FIG. 32A shows an example in which all reels 110 to 112 are reached by the symbol combination, and the symbols are not aligned on any winning line.

  The example of FIG. 32 (b) is an example of reach by the symbol combination of all the reels 110 to 112, in which symbols are arranged on one winning line, but symbols that do not constitute a role (two blank symbols) are aligned. Is shown.

  FIG. 32 (c) shows the reach by the symbol combination of one reel (here, the left reel 110). When this reel is stopped (for example, the first stop), the bonus combination is won internally. It is possible to make a definite report.

  In this embodiment, during the internal winning of special bonus 1 or special bonus 2 which is a bonus role (a game in which the special role is won internally and a game in RT3), the other role has not been won internally and the special role When the symbol combination of the combination is not realized, the reach is displayed depending on the timing of the stop operation. At this time, when the stop operation order is a predetermined operation order (hereinafter referred to as a prescribed operation order), reach is displayed at a higher rate than when the operation order is different from the prescribed operation order. The control for stopping the reel can be executed.

  For example, during the internal winning of a special role (RT3), the high ratio means that the symbol combination that can be displayed when the other combination of the special role is not internally won and the symbol combination of the special role is not established. It can be defined that the ratio of the number of symbols in the reach is high in all patterns.

  In addition, even if reach eyes are displayed in an unspecified order of operation, it is assumed that the combination of symbols is the same as the reach eyes, not the original reach eyes, and does not indicate the internal winning of the bonus combination It can also be handled. FIG. 33 is an explanatory view of the reach in consideration of the stop operation order. Here, it is assumed that the prescribed operation order is left → middle → right.

  In the example of FIG. 33 (a), the stop operation order is left reel 110 → middle reel 111 → right reel 112, which satisfies the prescribed operation order, and the reach is displayed (bottom row). On the other hand, in the example of FIG. 33 (b), the stop operation order is right reel 112 → middle reel 111 → left reel 110, and stop operations are performed in an unspecified operation order. Finally, the same symbol combination as in FIG. 33 (a) is displayed (bottom row), but this may not be handled as a reach.

  Now, in the case of such a configuration, if a stop operation is performed at the same time during the internal winning of the special role, the specified operation order is included in the operation order that can be defined and accepted from the received simultaneous stop operation Assumes that the stop operation has been performed in the specified operation sequence, and performs reel stop control in accordance with the specified operation sequence.

  For example, it is assumed that the stop operation is simultaneously performed on the left reel 110 and the middle reel 111 when the prescribed operation order is left → middle → right. In this case, the operation order is determined assuming that the first stop operation is performed on the left reel 110 and the second stop operation is performed on the middle reel 111.

  Further, for example, it is assumed that the stop operation is simultaneously performed on all the reels 110 to 112. In this case, the operation order is determined on the assumption that the first stop operation is performed on the left reel 110, the second stop operation is performed on the middle reel 111, and the third stop operation is performed on the right reel 113. .

  By doing so, reach eyes are likely to appear, so that even if a stop operation is performed at the same time, it is possible to prevent the interest of the game from declining and to achieve smooth game progression.

  There may be a plurality of prescribed operation orders. Further, as the method for determining the operation order at the time of the simultaneous stop operation, the determination method described in the first embodiment can be adopted as appropriate. For example, it is determined in advance which one to determine, and in the specific operation order. It may be determined that the stop operation has been performed, whereby the operation order can be easily determined. Moreover, this embodiment may be combined with what performs the game setting in the said 1st thru | or 3rd embodiment, and does not need to be combined.

<Summary of Embodiment>
1. The gaming table (e.g., 100) of the above embodiment is provided with a plurality of types of symbols, a plurality of reels (e.g., 110 to 112) that are rotationally driven, and corresponding to each of the reels. A stop operation receiving means (for example, 137 to 139) for receiving an operation and individually stopping the rotation of the reels; and a reel stop control means (for example, S8) for performing stop control of the reels based on the stop operation. A winning determination means (for example, S9) for determining a winning combination based on whether or not the combination of symbols displayed by the reel at the time of stoppage is a predetermined symbol combination; In a game stand having different player advantages according to the operation order (for example, S6, S184), the stop operation for the plurality of reels is the same by the stop operation receiving means. If accepted to the, wherein the advantageous degree of the stop operation in the order of operations other than the lowest operation sequence is an operation sequence determining means considered to have been made (eg S114, S191).

  According to this configuration, it is possible to achieve a smooth game progression by accepting the simultaneous stop operation, and it is possible to prevent the player from becoming the most disadvantageous, so that it is possible to prevent the interest of the game from diminishing. . Furthermore, it is possible to exhibit a new game play that involves a simultaneous stop operation.

  2. In the above gaming machine 1, the operation order determining means considers that the stop operation is performed in a predetermined specific operation order.

  According to this configuration, the operation order can be easily determined by determining the operation order in advance.

  3. The gaming table of 1 or 2, further comprising penalty setting means (for example, S184) for setting a penalty unfavorable to a player when the stop operation is in a predetermined operation order, It is considered that the stop operation is performed in an operation order other than a predetermined operation order.

  According to this configuration, since it is avoided that the player is most disadvantageous, it is possible to prevent the interest of the game from declining. Furthermore, it is possible to exhibit a new game play that involves a simultaneous stop operation.

Claims (3)

A plurality of reels that are subjected to multiple types of designs and are driven to rotate,
Stop operation accepting means provided corresponding to each of the reels, accepting a player's stop operation, and individually stopping rotation of the reel;
Reel stop control means for performing stop control of the reel based on the stop operation;
Winning determination means for determining a winning combination based on whether or not the combination of symbols displayed by the reel at the time of stopping is a predetermined symbol combination;
In a game machine having different player advantages according to the operation sequence of the stop operation,
An operation order determining means for determining that the stop operation is performed in an operation order other than the operation order having the lowest advantage when the stop operations for the plurality of reels are simultaneously received by the stop operation receiving means ;
The reel stop control means performs a control to stop a plurality of the reels for which the stop operation has been accepted at the same time without requiring a new stop operation . In the game stand of Claim 1,
The operation order determining means includes
A gaming machine characterized in that it is considered that the stop operation is performed in a predetermined specific operation order. In the game stand according to claim 1 or 2,
Penalty setting means for setting a penalty disadvantageous to the player when the stop operation is in a predetermined operation order,
The operation order determining means includes
It is considered that the stop operation is performed in an operation order other than the predetermined operation order.