JP5088859B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine.

  Conventionally, a plurality of reels in which a plurality of symbols are arranged on the respective circumferential surfaces, and a plurality of reels corresponding to each of the reels, a part of the plurality of symbols arranged on the circumferential surface of each reel. When an operation by the player (hereinafter referred to as a “start operation”) is detected on the condition that a display is displayed so that the player can visually recognize the symbol and a medal is inserted, rotation of each reel is started. A start switch for outputting a requested signal, a stop switch for outputting a signal for requesting a stop of rotation of the reel according to the type of the reel when an operation by the player (hereinafter referred to as “stop operation”) is detected, and A gaming machine comprising a control unit that controls the operation of the stepping motor based on signals output from the start switch and the stop switch, and rotates and stops each reel. Pachi has been known that. Normally, in such a pachislot, it is determined whether or not a winning is made based on a combination of symbols displayed by the plurality of display windows, and a medal is paid out when it is determined that a winning is achieved.

  Currently, in the mainstream pachislot, when a player's start operation is detected, an internal lottery is performed, and the result of this lottery (hereinafter, the internal lottery result type is referred to as “internal winning combination”). ) And the timing of the stop operation by the player, the reel rotation is stopped. In other words, if a winning combination is displayed on the display window on the condition that a winning result is obtained by an internal lottery and a stop operation is performed at an appropriate timing, the winning is established. Will be. If a combination of symbols related to the bonus game is displayed on the display window on the condition that a result related to the bonus game is obtained by an internal lottery and the stop operation is performed at an appropriate timing, The operation of the game will start.

Recently, on the condition that a combination of specific symbols is displayed on the display window or the operation of the bonus game is terminated, a state in which the probability of replay (ie, replay) is high (hereinafter “RT ( There is known a gaming machine in which “replay time”) is activated (see, for example, Patent Document 1).
JP 2005-143931 A

  However, the condition under which the RT is activated depends on the result of an internal lottery in which the player cannot be involved. Therefore, there is a possibility that the operating rate of the gaming machine may be lowered because the player keeps away from the gaming machine that does not know how long the result of the RT operation cannot be obtained due to the internal lottery.

  An object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine in which a player can enjoy a state in which the probability of replay being determined is high while avoiding a situation where the operating rate of the gaming machine is reduced as much as possible.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above-described problems. In the gaming machine, the internal winning combination determining means is the first when the bonus game operation ending means ends the operation of the bonus game. The replay is determined as an internal winning combination with a probability of, and the replay is internally performed with a second probability higher than the first probability when the numerical information updated by the numerical information updating means is updated to the predetermined numerical information. It is characterized by being determined as a winning role.

  More specifically, the present invention provides the following.

(1) Symbol display means for displaying a plurality of symbols (for example, reels 3L, 3C, 3R described later, display windows 21L, 21C, 21R described later) and a start operation (for example, a start operation described later, a start lever described later) Start operation detecting means (for example, a start switch 6S described later) and an internal winning combination (for example, an internal winning combination described later) based on the detection of the start operation performed by the start operation detecting means. The symbol display based on the detection of the starting operation performed by the internal winning combination determining means (for example, means for performing internal lottery processing in FIG. 13 described later, main control circuit 71 described later) and the starting operation detecting means. Symbol changing means (for example, stepping motors 49L, 49C, 49R, which will be described later, main control circuit 71, which will be described later) for changing the symbols displayed by the means, For example, a stop operation detecting means (for example, a stop switch 7LS, 7CS, 7RS, which will be described later) for detecting a stop button 7L, 7C, 7R, which will be described later, and an internal winning combination determined by the internal winning combination determining means. Stop control means for performing stop control of symbol variation performed by the symbol variation means based on the combination and detection of the stop operation performed by the stop operation detection means (for example, a reel stop control process of FIG. 14 described later is performed) When a combination of specific symbols (for example, “red 7-red 7-red 7” described later) is displayed by the symbol display means and the main display circuit 71 described later, the bonus game (for example, described later) Bonus game operation start means for starting the operation of the regular bonus game (for example, means for performing bonus operation check processing in FIG. 16 described later, main control circuit 71 described later); Bonus game operation end means for ending the operation of the bonus game started by the bonus game operation start means (for example, means for performing a bonus end check process in FIG. 15 to be described later, main control circuit 71 to be described later), When the bonus game operation ending means ends the operation of the bonus game, numerical information (for example, stored in a special RT game number counter to be described later) based on detection of the start operation performed by the start operation detecting means, etc. Numerical information updating means for updating the value) (for example, means for performing step S7 in FIG. 11 described later, main control circuit 71 described later), and numerical information updated by the numerical information updating means is predetermined numerical information. The video display means (for example, described later) for displaying a specific image (for example, a later-described special image) triggered by the update to Out display region 23, the liquid crystal display device 131 will be described later, includes a, a sub-control circuit 72) described later, the internal winning combination determination means, triggered by said bonus game operation ending means has finished the operation of the bonus game The replay is determined to be an internal winning combination with a first probability (for example, a first probability described later (“8980/65536”)), and the numerical information updated by the numerical information updating means is updated to predetermined numerical information As a result, the replay is determined to be an internal winning combination with a second probability higher than the first probability (for example, a second probability described later (“54613/65536”)), and the second probability When the replay is determined as an internal winning combination, the internal winning combination (for example, RB described later) related to the specific symbol combination is determined as an internal winning combination, which is lower than the second probability. The replay is determined to be an internal winning combination with a third probability (for example, a third probability described later (“8980/65536”)), and the video display means has predetermined numerical information updated by the numerical information update means. When the specific video is displayed in response to the update to the numerical information, the internal winning combination determining means stores the internal winning combination (for example, RB described later) related to the specific symbol combination. Even if the replay is determined to be an internal winning combination with a third probability lower than the second probability when the winning combination is determined, the specific video is displayed. .

  According to the gaming machine described in (1), the numerical information updating means is based on the detection of the start operation performed by the start operation detecting means when the bonus game operation end means ends the operation of the bonus game. Update numeric information. The internal winning combination determining means determines the replay to be an internal winning combination with a first probability when the bonus game operation ending means ends the operation of the bonus game, and the numerical information updated by the numerical information updating means In response to the update to the predetermined numerical information, the replay is determined as an internal winning combination with a second probability higher than the first probability. As described above, the internal winning combination determining means determines the replay to be the internal winning combination with the first probability until the numerical information to be updated is updated to the predetermined numerical information. Then, the internal winning combination determining means determines the replay to be the internal winning combination with a second probability higher than the first probability when the numerical information is updated to the predetermined numerical information. That is, according to this configuration, when the numerical information is updated to the predetermined numerical information based on the detection of the start operation or the like, the replay is determined as the internal winning combination with the second probability. For example, the player can remove the anxiety that the state in which the replay is determined to be the internal winning combination with the first probability will not be understood by being aware of the start operation of the player. Therefore, since the anxiety that causes the gaming machine to be avoided can be removed, it is possible to avoid as much as possible the situation where the operating rate of the gaming machine caused by this anxiety decreases. Furthermore, the player can enjoy a state in which the replay is determined as an internal winning combination with the second probability.

The gaming machine of the present invention is also triggered by the fact that the internal winning combination determining means has determined that the internal winning combination relating to a specific symbol combination is the internal winning combination when the replay is determined to be the internal winning combination with the second probability. Then, the replay is determined to be an internal winning combination with a third probability lower than the second probability. According to such a gaming machine, a state in which replay is determined as an internal winning combination with a second probability until an internal winning combination relating to a combination of specific symbols is determined as an internal winning combination by the internal winning combination determining means. Will continue. From the viewpoint of the player, after enjoying the state that the replay is determined to be the internal winning combination with the second probability, the player can further enjoy the bonus game. In other words, by increasing the player's expectation, the operating rate of the gaming machine can be improved.

The gaming machine according to the present invention further includes video display means for displaying a specific video when the numerical information updated by the numerical information update means is updated to predetermined numerical information. According to such a gaming machine, an image corresponding to numerical information relating to a state in which replay is determined to be an internal winning combination is displayed on the image display means. For example, according to this configuration, it is possible to suggest or clearly indicate to the player whether or not the replay is determined to be an internal winning combination with the second probability.

  According to the present invention, when the numerical information is updated to the predetermined numerical information based on the detection of the start operation or the like, the replay is determined as the internal winning combination with the second probability. For example, the player can remove the anxiety that the state in which the replay is determined to be the internal winning combination with the first probability will not be understood by being aware of the start operation of the player. Therefore, since the anxiety that causes the gaming machine to be avoided can be removed, it is possible to avoid as much as possible the situation where the operating rate of the gaming machine caused by this anxiety decreases. Furthermore, the player can enjoy a state in which the replay is determined as an internal winning combination with the second probability.

  FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an appearance of a gaming machine 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The gaming machine 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

  A substantially vertical panel display 2a, liquid crystal display 2b, and fixed display 2c are formed in front of the front door 2 of the gaming machine 1. In addition, behind the front door 2, three reels 3L, 3C, 3R on which a plurality of types of symbols are drawn on each outer peripheral surface are provided in a horizontal row so as to be freely rotatable. Each reel 3L, 3C, 3R rotates at a constant speed (for example, 80 rotations / minute).

  A substantially horizontal plane pedestal 4 is formed below the panel display 2a, the liquid crystal display 2b, and the fixed display 2c. On the right side of the pedestal portion 4, a medal insertion slot 10 is provided as an opening for receiving a medal as a game medium embodying game value information inside the housing of the gaming machine 1.

  Also, on the left side of the pedestal portion 4, a 1-BET switch 11 and a 2-BET switch are configured so that the number of medals provided for one game (hereinafter referred to as “inserted number”) can be selected by pressing operation. 12 and a maximum BET switch 13 are provided. In the embodiment, one game (that is, unit game) is basically an operation of a start lever 6 (to be described later) (hereinafter referred to as “start operation”) performed by the player to start the rotation of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R. ”), And the process ends when all the reels 3L, 3C, 3R are stopped.

  The 1-BET switch 11 selects “1” as the number of inserted sheets by a single pressing operation. The 2-BET switch 12 selects “2” as the number of inserted sheets by a single pressing operation. The maximum BET switch 13 is selected as “3” as the number of inserted sheets by one pressing operation.

  When these BET switches 11, 12, and 13 are pressed, the display line is activated (details will be described later). The operation of pressing the BET switches 11, 12, and 13 and inserting the medals used for one game into the medal insertion slot 10 are hereinafter referred to as “insertion operations”. An operation unit 17 is provided above the BET switches 11, 12, and 13. The operation unit 17 is operated to display information such as a game history on the liquid crystal display device 131 (see FIG. 4 described later).

  The credit / payout of medals to be paid out is switched by pressing operation by displaying a combination of symbols related to a predetermined internal winning combination along the activated display line on the left side of the front part of the base part 4 A / P switch 14 is provided. By switching the C / P switch 14, medals are paid out from the medal payout opening 15 at the lower front, and the paid out medals are stored in the medal receiving portion 5. Speakers 9 </ b> L and 9 </ b> R are provided on the left and right above the medal receiving portion 5 for outputting sound effects relating to game effects.

  A start lever 6 is attached to the right side of the C / P switch 14 so as to be rotatable within a predetermined angular range. When the player operates the start lever 6, the reel rotates. In other words, the change of the symbols in the display windows 21L, 21C, and 21R shown in FIG. 2, which will be described later, starts when the player operates the start lever 6.

  Three stop buttons 7L, 7C, and 7R are provided on the right side of the start lever 6 in the center of the front surface portion of the base portion 4. Each of the three stop buttons 7L, 7C, 7R is provided corresponding to each of the three reels 3L, 3C, 3R. When the player presses the stop buttons 7L, 7C, 7R, the rotation of the corresponding reels 3L, 3C, 3R is stopped. Here, in the embodiment, the stop operation of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R (that is, the pressing operation of the stop buttons 7L, 7C, 7R) performed when all the reels 3L, 3C, 3R are rotating is the first. This is called a stop operation. A stop operation performed after the first stop operation is referred to as a second stop operation. A stop operation performed after the second stop operation is referred to as a third stop operation. Further, stop switches 7LS, 7CS, and 7RS shown in FIG. 4 to be described later are arranged on the back side of the stop buttons 7L, 7C, and 7R. These stop switches detect pressing operations (that is, stop operations) of the corresponding stop buttons 7L, 7C, and 7R.

  The panel display unit 2a, the liquid crystal display unit 2b, and the fixed display unit 2c will be described with reference to FIG.

  The panel display unit 2a includes a bonus game information display unit 16, BET lamps 17a to 17c, a payout display unit 18, and a credit display unit 19. The bonus game information display unit 16 is composed of 7-segment LEDs, and displays information related to the bonus game (for example, the number of possible games to be described later) in a bonus game (for example, a regular bonus game to be described later). The 1-BET lamp 17a, the 2-BET lamp 17b, and the maximum BET lamp 17c are turned on according to the number of inserted sheets. Specifically, the 1-BET lamp 17a lights up when the number of inserted sheets is one. The 2-BET lamp 17b lights up when the number of inserted sheets is two. The maximum BET lamp 17c is lit when the number of inserted sheets is three. The payout display unit 18 includes 7-segment LEDs, and displays the number of medals to be paid out when a winning is achieved. The credit display unit 19 includes a 7-segment LED, and displays the number of medals that are credited.

  The liquid crystal display unit 2b includes display windows 21L, 21C, and 21R, window frame display areas 22L, 22C, and 22R, and an effect display area 23. The display content of the liquid crystal display unit 2b changes depending on the operation of the liquid crystal display device 131 described later.

  Each of the display windows 21L, 21C, 21R is provided corresponding to each of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R. The display windows 21L, 21C, 21R perform display of symbols arranged on the reels 3L, 3C, 3R, display related to various effects, and the like. The display windows 21L, 21C, and 21R are provided with a top line 8b, a center line 8c, and a bottom line 8d in the horizontal direction as display lines, and a cross-up line 8a and a cross-down line 8e in an oblique direction. In the embodiment, these display lines are validated on condition that a closing operation is performed. The activated display line is hereinafter referred to as “effective line”.

  Here, the display windows 21L, 21C, and 21R have one symbol type and other symbol types arranged on the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R that are rotating during the rotation of the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R. Are managed by a liquid crystal display device 131 (to be described later) so that the player can identify them. For example, the display windows 21L, 21C, and 21R are in a state where the ones corresponding to the rotating reels 3L, 3C, and 3R are transmitted.

  Each of the window frame display areas 22L, 22C, 22R is provided so as to surround each of the display windows 21L, 21C, 21R. The window frame display areas 22L, 22C, and 22R represent the window frames of the display windows 21L, 21C, and 21R arranged on the front surfaces of the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R.

  The effect display area 23 is an area other than the display windows 21L, 21C, 21R and the window frame display areas 22L, 22C, 22R in the area of the liquid crystal display unit 2b. In the effect display area 23, an image determined in response to a player's input operation, start operation, stop operation, or the like is displayed.

  The fixed display part 2c is an area where a predetermined picture or the like is drawn. One still image or moving image may be displayed by connecting the picture drawn on the fixed display portion 2c and the image displayed in the effect display area 23 together.

  FIG. 3 shows a symbol row in which 21 types of symbols drawn on the outer peripheral surface of each reel 3L, 3C, 3R are arranged. Each symbol is assigned a code number “00” to “20” which is sequentially given for each fixed rotation pitch of each reel 3L, 3C, 3R.

  Each of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R includes “red 7 (design 91)”, “replay (design 92)”, “bell (design 93)”, “watermelon (design 94)”, and “cherry (design 95). A symbol sequence composed of symbols "is shown. Each reel 3L, 3C, 3R rotates so that the symbol row moves in the direction of the arrow in FIG.

  FIG. 4 is based on a main control circuit 71 that controls the operation of the gaming machine 1, peripheral devices (that is, actuators) that are electrically connected to the main control circuit 71, and control signals transmitted from the main control circuit 71. A circuit configuration including a liquid crystal display device 131, speakers 9L and 9R, LEDs 101, and a sub-control circuit 72 that controls the lamps 102 is shown. The volume of the speakers 9L and 9R can be adjusted by operating the volume control unit 103.

  The main control circuit 71 includes a microcomputer 30 disposed on a circuit board as a main component. Further, the main control circuit 71 includes a circuit for extracting a random number value. The microcomputer 30 includes a CPU 31, a ROM 32, and a RAM 33.

  The CPU 31 executes a program stored in the ROM 32 and directly or indirectly controls the operation of each actuator. Connected to the CPU 31 are a clock pulse generation circuit 34 that generates a reference clock pulse, a frequency divider 35, a random number generator 36 that generates a random number, and a sampling circuit 37 that extracts a random value from the generated random number. Yes. Note that the CPU 31 may be configured to execute generation of random numbers and extraction of random number values. In that case, the random number generator 36 and the sampling circuit 37 may be omitted, but may be left for preliminary use.

  The ROM 32 stores programs executed by the CPU 31 (for example, FIGS. 11 to 16 described later) and fixed data. In the ROM 32, for example, in order to determine an internal winning combination, an internal lottery table that defines a numerical range to which a random number value extracted by a sampling circuit 37 serving as a random value extracting means belongs according to the internal winning combination (described later). 6) is stored. The ROM 32 stores various control signals transmitted from the main control circuit 71 to the sub control circuit 72. Note that commands and information are not transmitted from the sub control circuit 72 to the main control circuit 71, and communication is performed in one direction from the main control circuit 71 to the sub control circuit 72.

  The RAM 33 is used for temporarily storing data when the CPU 31 executes the program. The RAM 33 stores, for example, information such as an internal winning combination, a carryover combination described later, and a gaming state described below.

  In the circuit of FIG. 4, as the main actuators whose operation is controlled by a control signal from the microcomputer 30, a BET lamp (1-BET lamp 17a, 2-BET lamp 17b, maximum BET lamp 17c) and a display unit ( A bonus game information display unit 16, a payout display unit 18, a credit display unit 19), a hopper 40 for storing medals and paying out a predetermined number of medals according to a command from the hopper driving circuit 41, and reels 3L, 3C, 3R. There are stepping motors 49L, 49C, and 49R.

  Further, by outputting a driving pulse to the stepping motors 49L, 49C, 49R, a motor driving circuit 39 for controlling the rotational operation of the stepping motors 49L, 49C, 49R, a hopper driving circuit 41 for controlling the operation of the hopper 40, and the BET lamp 17a. , 17b, 17c are connected to the CPU 31 by a lamp driving circuit 45 that manages the turning on and off of the light, and a display unit driving circuit 48 that manages the display by the display unit. These drive circuits each receive a control signal output from the CPU 31 and control the operation of each actuator.

  Further, as means for generating an input signal transmitted to the microcomputer 30 in order for the microcomputer 30 to generate a control signal, a start switch 6S, a stop switch 7LS, 7CS, 7RS, a 1-BET switch 11, a 2-BET switch 12, a maximum BET switch 13, a C / P switch 14, a medal sensor 10S, a reel position detection circuit 50, and a payout completion signal circuit 51.

  The start switch 6S detects the operation of the start lever 6 and outputs a game start command signal. Based on the detection of the operation of the start lever 6 performed by the start switch 6S (that is, the game start command signal), the reels 3L, 3C, 3R start to rotate. In other words, one game starts based on the start operation by the player. The medal sensor 10S detects a medal received from the medal insertion slot 10. The stop switches 7LS, 7CS, and 7RS generate stop command signals in response to pressing operations of the corresponding stop buttons 7L, 7C, and 7R. The rotation of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R is stopped based on detection of pressing operation of the stop buttons 7L, 7C, 7R performed by the stop switches 7LS, 7CS, 7RS (that is, a stop command signal). In other words, symbol variation stop control is performed.

  The reel position detection circuit 50 receives the pulse signal from the reel rotation sensor provided on the reels 3L, 3C, 3R and supplies the signal to the CPU 31. The CPU 31 manages the rotational positions of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R based on this signal. The payout completion signal circuit 51 indicates that when the value counted by the medal detection unit 40S (that is, the number of medals paid out from the hopper 40) reaches a specified value, the completion of payout of the medal is detected. Is generated.

  In the circuit of FIG. 4, a random number generator 36 generates random numbers belonging to a certain numerical range. The sampling circuit 37 extracts one random number value from the random number generated by the random number generator 36 at an appropriate timing after the start lever 6 is operated. The random number value extracted in this way is stored in a random value storage area provided in the RAM 33. For example, an internal winning combination is determined based on an internal lottery table (FIG. 6 described later) stored in the ROM 32, for example. To be referenced.

  The reels 3L, 3C, 3R rotate once by outputting a drive pulse to the stepping motors 49L, 49C, 49R a predetermined number of times (for example, 336 times). The number of drive pulses output to each of the stepping motors 49L, 49C, 49R is written in a predetermined area of the RAM 33 as a drive pulse count value. On the other hand, a reset pulse is obtained from the reels 3L, 3C, 3R every rotation. When this reset pulse is input to the CPU 31 via the reel position detection circuit 50, the count value of the drive pulse stored in the RAM 33 is updated to “0”. As a result, the count value of the drive pulse corresponds to the rotational position within one rotation range for each of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R.

  That is, in the embodiment, the number of symbols drawn on the outer peripheral surface of each reel 3L, 3C, 3R is 21 and is driven by the stepping motors 49L, 49C, 49R while the reels 3L, 3C, 3R make one rotation. Since the number of times the pulse is output is 336 times, when the drive pulse is output 16 times to the stepping motors 49L, 49C, 49R, one symbol drawn on the outer peripheral surface of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R. The reels 3L, 3C, 3R are rotated. In the embodiment, there is provided a symbol counter which is incremented by “1” every time the drive pulse is output 16 times and updated to “0” based on the reset pulse. On the other hand, the reel position detection circuit 50 has a position where a symbol corresponding to the symbol position “0” is displayed along the center line 8c (in other words, a symbol corresponding to the symbol position “0” is along the center line 8c). The reset pulse is obtained at the timing displayed. Here, the symbol position is position information used when the CPU 31 specifies the symbol position drawn on the outer peripheral surface of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R.

  Therefore, since the value of the symbol counter is incremented by “1” corresponding to the rotation of one symbol, for example, when the symbol counter value is “1”, it corresponds to the symbol position “1”. It can be specified that the symbol is displayed along the center line 8c. That is, the symbol displayed along the center line 8c can be specified based on the value of the symbol counter. Note that the symbols displayed on the top line 8b, the bottom line 8d, the cross-up line 8a, and the cross-down line 8e can be specified by specifying the symbols displayed along the center line 8c.

  When the internal winning combination is determined by the internal lottery process (FIG. 13 to be described later) based on the extraction of the random number value, the CPU 31 starts from the stop switches 7LS, 7CS, 7RS at the timing when the player operates the stop buttons 7L, 7C, 7R. Based on the input signal that is sent, a signal that instructs the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R to stop rotating is sent to the motor drive circuit 39.

  If a winning is established, the CPU 31 supplies a payout command signal to the hopper drive circuit 41 and pays out a predetermined number of medals from the hopper 40. At this time, the medal detection unit 40S counts the number of medals to be paid out from the hopper 40, and when the count value reaches a designated number, a medal payout completion signal is input to the CPU 31. Thereby, CPU31 stops the drive of the hopper 40 via the hopper drive circuit 41, and complete | finishes a medal payout process.

  With reference to FIG. 5, an internal lottery table determination table used when the CPU 31 determines an internal lottery table (FIG. 6 to be described later) and the number of lotteries will be described.

  The internal lottery table determination table includes an internal lottery table (FIG. 6 described later) corresponding to the gaming state and information on the number of lotteries. The gaming state of the embodiment includes a general gaming state and an RB gaming state. The gaming state includes the type of internal winning combination that may be determined in the internal lottery process (FIG. 13 described later) in which the internal winning combination is determined, the probability that the internal winning combination is determined in the internal lottery process, and the maximum slip. It is a state that is distinguished by the number of pieces, whether or not the bonus game is activated, and the like.

  The general game state includes a normal state, a special RT1, and a special RT2. In the embodiment, an internal lottery table corresponding to each of the normal state and the special RT1 is provided. The special RT2 uses the internal lottery table related to the special RT1. That is, the same internal lottery table is used for the special RT1 and the special RT2. Further, which internal lottery table the CPU 31 uses will be described in detail in an internal lottery process (FIG. 13 described later).

  In the case of the general gaming state, basically, an internal lottery table for general gaming state ((1) in FIG. 6 described later) is selected, and “5” is determined as the number of lotteries (step in FIG. 13 described later). S41). In the RB gaming state, an internal lottery table for RB gaming state ((2) in FIG. 6 described later) is selected, and “3” is determined as the number of lotteries. The number of lotteries is determined as to whether or not one random number value extracted by the sampling circuit 37 is within a predetermined range (a numerical range indicated by a lower limit value and an upper limit value corresponding to a winning number described later with reference to FIG. 6). Is the number of times.

  With reference to FIG. 6, an internal lottery table used in an internal lottery process (FIG. 13 described later) in which the CPU 31 determines an internal winning combination will be described. The internal lottery table includes information (data) of a numerical range (that is, a lower limit value and an upper limit value) corresponding to the winning number. The width shown in the internal lottery table is a value obtained by adding “1” to the result of subtracting the lower limit value from the upper limit value. That is, by dividing this width by the number of random values (ie, “65536”), the probability of winning each winning number (so-called winning probability) can be calculated.

  In the determination of the winning number based on the internal lottery table, it is determined whether or not the random number value extracted from the range of “0” to “65535” is within the numerical value range indicated by the lower limit value and the upper limit value corresponding to the winning number. Is done. If the extracted random number value is within this numerical range, the corresponding winning number is won (that is, determined). Then, an internal winning combination is determined based on the determined winning number and an internal winning combination determining table (FIG. 7 described later). That is, the internal winning combination is determined based on the extracted one random number value.

  In addition, in the internal lottery table of the embodiment, a numerical range to which a random value for which a specific internal winning combination is assigned belongs and a numerical range to which a random value for which a predetermined internal winning combination is assigned overlaps in a part of the range. It is prescribed as follows. In other words, it is allowed to determine both a specific internal winning combination and a predetermined internal winning combination (that is, win simultaneously) based on the extracted one random number value.

  For example, when the inserted number in the internal lottery table for the general gaming state is “3”, the numerical range indicated by the lower limit value and the upper limit value corresponding to the winning number “1” and the lower limit value and the upper limit value corresponding to the winning number “2”. Are overlapped in the numerical ranges “500” to “599”. Accordingly, when the inserted number in the general gaming state is “3” and the extracted random number value is “550”, the random number value is included in the numerical range of “500” to “599”, so that the winning number “1” And “2” is a win, and both a cherry to be described later and a bell to be described later are determined as an internal winning combination based on an internal winning combination determination table (FIG. 7 described later).

  (1) of FIG. 6 shows the internal lottery table for the general gaming state used in the general gaming state. (2) of FIG. 6 shows the internal lottery table for the RB gaming state used in the RB gaming state. The internal lottery table is basically provided for each set value and gaming state, but illustrations other than the example of the internal lottery table shown in (1) of FIG. 6 and (2) of FIG. 6 are omitted.

  (*) Shown in (1) of FIG. 6 indicates that in the general gaming state, the winning number is determined based on the internal lottery table for the general gaming state or the internal lottery table for the special RT operation. . In the internal lottery table for the general gaming state and the internal lottery table for special RT operation, the probability that the winning number “4” in the inserted number “3” is determined (that is, the probability that the replay described later is determined as the internal winning combination) ) Is specified so that each value is different.

  The internal lottery table for a general gaming state is an internal lottery table used in a normal state. In the general game state internal lottery table, a numerical range is defined so that the probability that the winning number “4” in the inserted number “3” is determined becomes the second probability (“54613/65536”).

  The internal lottery table for special RT operation is an internal lottery table used in the special RT1 and the special RT2. In the special RT operating internal lottery table, a numerical range is defined such that the probability that the winning number “4” in the inserted number “3” is determined becomes a predetermined probability (“8980/65536”). In the embodiment, since the internal lottery tables used in the special RT1 and the special RT2 are the same internal lottery table, the probability that the winning number “4” is determined in the special RT1 and the special RT2 is equal. However, a special RT1 operating internal lottery table related to the special RT1 and a special RT2 operating internal lottery table related to the special RT2 are provided, and the probability that the winning number “4” is determined in the special RT1 in each internal lottery table. The numerical range may be defined so that the probability that the winning number “4” is determined in the special RT2 is different. Therefore, the probability that the winning number “4” is determined in the special RT1 is distinguished as the third probability, and the probability that the winning number “4” is determined in the special RT2 is distinguished as the first probability.

  Therefore, it can be said that the general gaming state is a gaming state in which the probability that the replay is determined as an internal winning combination may vary.

  With reference to FIG. 7, an internal winning combination determination table used when the CPU 31 determines an internal winning combination based on the winning number will be described.

  The internal winning combination determination table includes data of an internal winning combination corresponding to the winning number. The data of the internal winning combination is data consisting of 1 byte, and is provided corresponding to each of the internal winning combinations in order to identify the internal winning combination. In the embodiment, cherry, bell, watermelon, replay, RB, and lose are provided as internal winning combinations. Here, cherry, bell, and watermelon are collectively referred to as “small role”.

  Specifically, when the winning number is “0”, “00000000” is determined as the data of the internal winning combination. The internal winning combination (that is, name) corresponding to the internal winning combination data is hereinafter referred to as “losing”. When the winning number is “1”, “00000001” is determined as the data of the internal winning combination. The internal winning combination corresponding to the internal winning combination data is hereinafter referred to as “cherry”. When the winning number is “2”, “00000010” is determined as the data of the internal winning combination. The internal winning combination corresponding to the data of the internal winning combination is hereinafter referred to as “bell”. When the winning number is “3”, “00000100” is determined as the data of the internal winning combination. The internal winning combination corresponding to the data of the internal winning combination is hereinafter referred to as “watermelon”.

  When the winning number is “4”, “00001000” is determined as the data of the internal winning combination. The internal winning combination corresponding to the internal winning combination data is hereinafter referred to as “replay”. When the winning number is “5”, “00010000” is determined as the data of the internal winning combination. The internal winning combination corresponding to the data of the internal winning combination is hereinafter referred to as “RB”.

  The symbol combination table used when the CPU 31 determines the display combination and when the CPU 31 determines the payout number corresponding to the display combination will be described with reference to FIG.

  The symbol combination table includes display combination data and payout number data corresponding to the symbol combinations. The data of the display combination is data consisting of 1 byte, and corresponds to each of the internal winning combinations in order to identify the combination of symbols corresponding to the internal winning combination among the combinations of symbols displayed along one effective line. Is provided.

  In the embodiment, when the symbol combination “cherry-ANY-ANY” is displayed along the active line, “00000001” is determined as the display combination data, and the cherry becomes the display combination, and four medals are displayed. Paid out. Here, “ANY” indicates an arbitrary symbol. When a combination of symbols “Bell-Bell-Bell” is displayed along the active line, “00000010” is determined as the display combination data, the bell becomes the display combination, and 15 medals are paid out. When the combination of symbols “watermelon-watermelon-watermelon” is displayed along the active line, “00000100” is determined as the display combination data, the watermelon becomes the display combination, and six medals are paid out.

  When the symbol combination “Replay-Replay-Replay” is displayed along the active line, “00001000” is determined as the display combination data, the replay becomes the display combination, and medals are automatically inserted. (It becomes a so-called replay). When a combination of symbols “Red 7-Red 7-Red 7” is displayed along the active line, “00010000” is determined as the display combination data, and RB becomes the display combination, which is compared with the general gaming state. Then, the operation of the state where the probability of determining the small role is high (hereinafter referred to as “regular bonus game”) starts. In other words, the gaming state becomes the RB gaming state.

  As described above, the symbol combination table basically stores information associated with the profits given to the player (for example, the payout of medals, the start of the bonus game operation).

  With reference to FIG. 9, the bonus operation time table used by the CPU 31 in the bonus operation time processing described later will be described.

  The bonus operating time table includes information on an operating flag stored in the operating flag storage area, information on a value stored in a possible game number counter, and information on a value stored in a possible winning number counter. Yes. The operating flag is information provided for the CPU 31 to identify an operating gaming state (current gaming state) or an operating bonus game. The operating flag of the embodiment includes an RB operating flag that can identify whether or not the player is in the RB gaming state (that is, whether or not the regular bonus game is operating).

  The game possible number counter is a counter provided for the CPU 31 to count the number of remaining unit games that can be performed in one regular bonus game (that is, the number of possible games). The possible winning number counter is provided for the CPU 31 to count the number of remaining unit games (that is, the possible number of winnings) in which a combination of symbols corresponding to the small role in one regular bonus game can be displayed. Counter.

  With reference to FIG. 10, the internal winning combination storing area and the carryover combination storing area will be described.

  (1) of FIG. 10 shows an internal winning combination storing area in which data of an internal winning combination is stored. In the internal winning combination storage area consisting of 1 byte (8 bits), bit 0 is a storage area corresponding to cherry. Bit 1 is a storage area corresponding to the bell. Bit 2 is a storage area corresponding to a watermelon. Bit 3 is a storage area corresponding to replay. Bit 4 is a storage area corresponding to RB. Bits 5 to 7 are unused storage areas.

  Here, in the internal winning combination storing area, the bit corresponding to the data of the internal winning combination is “1”. For example, when “00000010” is stored in the internal winning combination storing area (that is, when bit 1 is “1”), the internal winning combination is a bell. Although the display combination storage area in which the display combination data is stored is not illustrated, the display combination storage area has the same data structure as the internal winning combination storage area.

  (2) in FIG. 10 shows a carryover combination storage area in which data of a carryover combination is stored. In the carryover combination storage area consisting of 1 byte (8 bits), bit 4 is a storage area corresponding to RB. Bits 0 to 3 and bits 5 to 7 are unused storage areas. The carryover combination is determined when the combination of symbols corresponding to the internal winning combination determined in the internal lottery process (described later in FIG. 13) is allowed to be displayed along one or more games. This is information provided for the CPU 31 to identify the internal winning combination.

  For example, when RB is determined as the internal winning combination in the internal lottery process of FIG. 13 described later, “1” is stored in bit 4 corresponding to RB in the carryover combination storing area. That is, “00010000” is stored in the carryover combination storage area.

  The operation of the main control circuit 71 will be described with reference to the flowcharts shown in FIGS.

  With reference to FIG. 11, a main flowchart showing a main process executed by the main CPU (ie, CPU 31) will be described.

  First, the CPU 31 performs an initialization process (step S1). Specifically, the CPU 31 checks whether the RAM 33 is normal, initializes an input / output port, and the like. Further, in this process, the CPU 31 may perform a process related to a change in setting (setting value). Subsequently, the CPU 31 clears the designated storage area (step S2). Specifically, the CPU 31 erases data in a predetermined area of the RAM 33 (for example, information on the internal winning combination storing area). Subsequently, the CPU 31 performs a medal acceptance / start check process which will be described later with reference to FIG. 12 (step S3). In this process, the CPU 31 determines whether a start operation is possible based on the number of inserted sheets.

  Next, the CPU 31 extracts a random value and stores it in the random value storage area (step S4). The random number value extracted in the process of step S4 is used in the internal lottery process (FIG. 13 described later). Subsequently, the CPU 31 performs a gaming state monitoring process (step S5). Specifically, if the RB operating flag is on, the CPU 31 stores an identifier (that is, a flag) indicating the RB gaming state in the RAM 33. Further, if the RB operating flag is off, the CPU 31 stores an identifier indicating the general gaming state in the RAM 33. Subsequently, the CPU 31 performs an internal lottery process which will be described later with reference to FIG. 13 (step S6). In this process, the CPU 31 determines an internal winning combination.

  Next, the CPU 31 performs special RT game number counter update processing (step S7). Specifically, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the value of the special RT game number counter is “0”. If the CPU 31 determines that the value of the special RT game number counter is not “0”, the special RT game number counter The value of “1” is subtracted. The special RT game number counter is a counter provided for the CPU 31 to count the number of remaining games in the special RT2.

  Further, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the value of the special RT game number counter has become “0” as a result of the subtraction, and if the CPU 31 determines that the value of the special RT game number counter has become “0”, Update (ie clear) the special RT2 operating flag to off. That is, the CPU 31 ends the operation of the special RT 2 based on the detection of the game start command signal for the number of times (for example, 1000 times described later) set at the start of the operation of the special RT 2. At this time, the CPU 31 ends the operation of the special RT 2 and starts the operation in the normal state. The special RT2 operating flag is information provided for the CPU 31 to identify whether or not the special RT2 is operating.

  In the embodiment, the value of the special RT game number counter and the special RT2 operating flag information (that is, various settings related to the special RT2) are not cleared by the CPU 31 based on the processing related to the change of the settings. Yes. According to the configuration in which the CPU 31 does not clear (in other words, initialize) the various settings related to the special RT 2 (in other words, the configuration in which the various settings related to the special RT 2 are maintained), after closing by the store clerk of the amusement store Or even if the setting is changed before the store is opened, various settings related to the special RT 2 are not changed. That is, various settings related to the special RT2 are cleared due to a change in setting by a store clerk of the game store, and the state becomes a normal state (that is, a state where the probability that the replay is determined as an internal winning combination is very high). There is nothing. Therefore, according to this configuration, it is possible to avoid a situation in which a disadvantage for the game store that the operation in the normal state starts due to a change in setting by the store clerk of the game store occurs. Further, according to this configuration, the store clerk of the game shop can change the setting without suffering the above disadvantages, so that it is possible to appropriately balance the profit of the player and the profit of the game shop side. it can.

  Note that various settings related to the special RT 2 may be cleared by the CPU 31 based on processing related to the change of the settings. When this configuration is applied to the gaming machine 1, when the setting is changed by a store clerk of the gaming store, various settings related to the special RT 2 are cleared, and the state becomes the normal state. That is, when the setting is changed by the store clerk, the player may be able to enjoy the normal state without any effort. Therefore, according to this structure, the operating rate of the gaming machine 1 can be improved by increasing the player's expectation for the normal state that can be enjoyed without effort. Further, according to this configuration, when the player senses that the normal state has been caused by the change in the setting by the store clerk of the game store, the presence or absence of the change in the setting is determined. That is, according to this configuration, the player is given an opportunity to know whether or not the setting has been changed, and the player can estimate the setting based on whether or not the setting has been changed.

  Subsequently, the CPU 31 transmits a start command to the sub control circuit 72 (step S8). The start command includes information such as a gaming state and an internal winning combination, and is transmitted to the sub-control circuit 72. Subsequently, the CPU 31 requests the start of rotation of all the reels 3L, 3C, 3R (step S9). Specifically, the CPU 31 updates all three later-described effective stop button flags corresponding to each of the stop buttons 7L, 7C, and 7R to ON. Thereby, the pressing operation of the three stop buttons 7L, 7C, and 7R is validated. Subsequently, the CPU 31 performs a reel stop control process which will be described later with reference to FIG. 14 (step S10). In this process, the CPU 31 executes a command related to stopping the rotation of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R.

  Next, the CPU 31 refers to the symbol combination table, determines a display combination or the like based on the symbol combination displayed along the active line, and stores these in predetermined areas of various storage areas (step S11). . That is, in this process, the CPU 31 determines display combination data and medal payout number data.

  Next, the CPU 31 transmits a display command to the sub control circuit 72 (step S12). The display command includes data of the display combination determined in step S11. Subsequently, the CPU 31 performs a medal payout process for paying out medals based on the medal payout number determined in the process of step S11 (step S13).

  Subsequently, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the RB operation flag is on (step S14). At this time, if the RB operating flag is on, the CPU 31 performs a bonus end check process described later with reference to FIG. 15 (step S15). In this process, the CPU 31 ends the operation of the bonus game when the bonus game end condition is satisfied. Subsequently, the CPU 31 performs a process of step S16. On the other hand, when the RB operation flag is OFF, the CPU 31 subsequently performs the process of step S16.

  In step S16, the CPU 31 performs a bonus operation check process which will be described later with reference to FIG. 16, and then performs a process of step S2. In this process, the CPU 31 starts the bonus game operation when the bonus game start condition is satisfied.

  With reference to FIG. 12, a medal acceptance / start check process will be described, which shows a procedure of a process in which the CPU 31 determines whether or not a start operation is possible based on the number of inserted sheets.

  First, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the value of the automatic insertion counter is “0” (step S21). At this time, if the value of the automatic insertion counter is “0”, the CPU 31 performs a medal passage permission process (step S22), and then performs a process of step S25. On the other hand, when the value of the automatic insertion counter is not “0”, the CPU 31 subsequently performs the process of step S23. The automatic insertion counter is a counter provided for the CPU 31 to count the number of medals to be automatically inserted.

  In step S23, the CPU 31 copies the value of the automatic insertion counter to the insertion number counter. The inserted number counter is a counter provided for the CPU 31 to count the number of inserted medals. Subsequently, the CPU 31 clears the automatic insertion counter (step S24), and then performs the process of step S25.

  In step S25, the CPU 31 determines whether or not a medal has passed. For example, the CPU 31 checks the input from the medal sensor 10S and determines whether there is an input from the medal sensor 10S. At this time, if it is determined that the medal has passed, the CPU 31 subsequently performs the process of step S26. On the other hand, if it is determined that the medal has not passed, the CPU 31 subsequently performs the process of step S31.

  In step S26, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the insertion number counter is the maximum value. The maximum value of the inserted number counter is set according to the operating flag, but the maximum value of the inserted number counter of the embodiment is “3” in the general gaming state (when the RB operating flag is off). In the RB gaming state (when the RB operation flag is on), “1” is set. At this time, when the insertion number counter is the maximum value, the CPU 31 subsequently performs the process of step S30. On the other hand, when the insertion number counter is not the maximum value, the CPU 31 performs the process of step S27.

  In step S27, the CPU 31 adds “1” to the value of the insertion number counter. Subsequently, the CPU 31 stores “5” in the valid line counter (step S28). In an embodiment, each activated display line is identified based on a value stored in the activated line counter. Subsequently, the CPU 31 transmits a medal insertion command (that is, transmits a medal insertion command to the sub control circuit 72) (step S29), and performs the process of step S31.

  In step S30, the CPU 31 adds “1” to the value of the credit counter, and then performs the process of step S31. The credit counter is a counter provided for the CPU 31 to count the number of credited medals.

  In step S31, the CPU 31 checks the bet switch. Specifically, when there is an input from the BET switches 11, 12, and 13 (that is, when the BET switches 11, 12, and 13 are pressed), the type of the BET switches 11, 12, and 13 are turned on. Based on the value of the sheet counter, the value of the credit counter, and the maximum number of inserted sheets for which the start operation corresponding to the gaming state is valid, the value to be added to the value of the inserted sheet counter is calculated, and the value of the inserted sheet counter Update. In this case, the CPU 31 may perform the processes of step S28 and step S29. Subsequently, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the value of the insertion number counter is “1” or more (step S32). At this time, if the value of the insertion number counter is “1” or more, the CPU 31 subsequently performs the process of step S33. On the other hand, if the value of the insertion number counter is not “1” or more, the CPU 31 subsequently performs the process of step S25.

  In step S33, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the start switch 6S is on. Specifically, the CPU 31 determines whether or not there is an input from the start switch 6S based on the operation of the start lever 6. At this time, if there is an input from the start switch 6S, the CPU 31 subsequently performs a medal passage prohibition process (step S34), and then performs a process of step S4 in FIG. On the other hand, when there is no input from the start switch 6S, the CPU 31 subsequently performs the process of step S25.

  With reference to FIG. 13, an internal lottery process will be described in which the CPU 31 determines the internal winning combination based on the random number value, the gaming state, and the like.

  First, based on the internal lottery table determination table (FIG. 5), the CPU 31 determines the type of the internal lottery table and the number of lotteries according to the gaming state (step S41). Subsequently, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the special RT1 operating flag is on (step S42). At this time, if the special RT1 operating flag is on, the CPU 31 subsequently performs the process of step S44. On the other hand, when the special RT1 operating flag is OFF, the CPU 31 subsequently performs the process of step S43. The special RT1 operating flag is information provided for the CPU 31 to identify whether or not the special RT1 is operating.

  In step S43, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the special RT2 operating flag is on. At this time, if the special RT2 operating flag is on, the CPU 31 subsequently performs the process of step S44. On the other hand, when the special RT2 operating flag is OFF, the CPU 31 subsequently performs the process of step S45.

  In step S44, the CPU 31 changes the internal lottery table determined in step S41 to a special RT operating internal lottery table, and then performs the process of step S45.

  In step S45, the CPU 31 determines whether or not data indicating RB is stored in the carryover combination storage area (that is, whether there is a carryover combination). Specifically, it is determined whether or not “1” is stored in bit 4 corresponding to RB in the carryover combination storage area. At this time, if “1” is stored in bit 4, the CPU 31 changes the number of lotteries determined in step S41 to “4” (step S46), and then performs the process of step S47. On the other hand, if “0” is stored in bit 4, the CPU 31 performs the process of step S47.

  In step S47, the CPU 31 sets the same value as the number of lotteries as the winning number. That is, the CPU 31 sets a winning number in a register that it has. Subsequently, the CPU 31 compares the random number value stored in the random number value storage area with the lower limit value and the upper limit value corresponding to the number of inserted sheets (step S48). Subsequently, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the random number value is a value not less than a lower limit value and not more than an upper limit value (step S49). At this time, if the random number value is not less than the lower limit value and not more than the upper limit value, the CPU 31 subsequently performs the process of step S50. On the other hand, if the random number value is not greater than the lower limit value and less than the upper limit value, the CPU 31 subsequently performs the process of step S55.

  In step S50, the CPU 31 refers to the internal winning combination determination table and determines an internal winning combination based on the winning number. Subsequently, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the internal winning combination determined in step S50 is RB (step S51). At this time, if the internal winning combination is RB, the CPU 31 subsequently performs the process of step S52. On the other hand, if it is determined that RB is not included in the internal winning combination, the CPU 31 subsequently performs the process of step S54.

  In step S52, the CPU 31 stores data indicating RB in the carryover combination storage area based on the internal winning combination. Specifically, when it is determined in step S51 that the internal winning combination includes RB, the CPU 31 stores “00010000” in the carryover combination storing area. Subsequently, the CPU 31 turns on the special RT1 operating flag (step S53), and then performs the process of step S54. That is, the CPU 31 starts the operation of the special RT 1 when the RB is determined as the internal winning combination. Here, when the special RT2 operating flag is on, the CPU 31 turns off the special RT2 operating flag. In this way, the simultaneous operation of the special RT1 and the special RT2 is excluded.

  In step S54, the CPU 31 stores the logical sum of the data of the internal winning combination and the data stored in the carryover combination storing area in the internal winning combination storing area. That is, when there is a carryover combination, the data of the carryover combination is stored in the internal winning combination storage area.

  In step S55, the CPU 31 subtracts “1” from the number of lotteries. Subsequently, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the number of lotteries is “0” (step S56). At this time, if the number of lotteries is “0”, the CPU 31 stores the logical sum of the data stored in the internal symbol combination storage area and the data stored in the carryover combination storage area in the internal symbol combination storage area. (Step S57). Next, the process of step S7 in FIG. 11 is performed. On the other hand, when the number of lotteries is not “0”, the CPU 31 subsequently performs the process of step S47. Note that if the internal winning combination is lost, the processing of step S54 is not performed, so even if there is a carryover combination, the bit corresponding to the carryover combination in the internal winning combination storage area is “1”. There is nothing. Therefore, in step S57, if there is a carryover combination by storing the logical sum of the data stored in the internal winning combination storage area and the data stored in the carryover combination storage area in the internal winning combination storage area. Even if the winning combination is lost, processing is performed so that “1” is stored in the bit corresponding to the carryover combination in the internal winning combination storing area.

  As described above, in the internal lottery process, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the random number value extracted by the random value extraction means belongs to the numerical value range defined by the internal lottery table as the storage means. The internal winning combination is determined based on Therefore, the internal winning combination determining means for determining the internal winning combination is a means that includes the CPU 31 that performs the internal lottery process, the internal lottery table, and the like.

  With reference to FIG. 14, the reel stop control process in which the CPU 31 stops the rotation of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R based on the internal winning combination or the timing of the stop operation by the player will be described.

  First, the CPU 31 determines whether or not a valid stop switch is turned on, that is, whether or not the stop buttons 7L, 7C, and 7R corresponding to the rotating reels 3L, 3C, and 3R are pressed. (Step S61). At this time, when the effective stop switch is turned on, the CPU 31 subsequently performs the process of step S62. On the other hand, when the effective stop switch is not turned on, the CPU 31 performs the determination in step S61 again.

  In step S62, the CPU 31 invalidates the corresponding stop switch. That is, the CPU 31 updates the corresponding effective stop button flag to off. As a result, the pressing operation of the stop buttons 7L, 7C, and 7R once performed is invalid thereafter. Here, the effective stop button flag is information provided for the CPU 31 to identify whether or not the pressing operation of the stop buttons 7L, 7C, and 7R is possible, and corresponds to the stop buttons 7L, 7C, and 7R. Three are provided. Subsequently, the CPU 31 sets “5” as the number of checks (step S63). The number of checks is provided in order for the CPU 31 to search for a symbol position corresponding to a symbol having the highest so-called pull-in priority among symbol positions allowed as symbol positions when the reels 3L, 3C, 3R are stopped. It is the number of times.

  Here, the priority level of the pull-in is defined in a pull-in priority table (not shown) corresponding to the combination of symbols related to the internal winning combination. The pull-in priority table defines the highest priority for replay, the highest priority for RB after the priority corresponding to replay, and the lowest priority for small roles.

  Subsequently, the CPU 31 searches for the symbol position with the highest priority within the range of the number of checks from the symbol position corresponding to the symbol counter (step S64), and determines the number of sliding symbols based on the result of this search. (Step S65). That is, the rotation of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R (that is, the fluctuation of the symbol) is stopped based on the number of sliding pieces. When there are a plurality of symbol positions having the highest priority, a predetermined priority (eg, “0”, “1”, “2”, “3”, “4”) is selected from the number of sliding symbols that can be determined. ”In the order).

  Here, in the embodiment, the maximum number of sliding symbols in the general gaming state is four, and other types of symbols are arranged between “replay” and “replay” arranged on one reel 3L, 3C, 3R. A configuration in which the number is four or less is adopted. Therefore, the player can display the combination of symbols related to the replay along the effective line regardless of the timing of the stop operation (so-called replay loss does not occur).

  Subsequently, the CPU 31 transmits a reel stop command (step S66). By transmitting this reel stop command to the sub-control circuit 72, the sub-control circuit 72 can perform an effect such as displaying an image in the effect display area 23 based on the stop of the reels 3L, 3C, 3R. . Subsequently, the CPU 31 determines whether or not there is a valid stop switch (step S67). Specifically, it is determined whether or not any of the three effective stop button flags is on. At this time, if any of the three effective stop button flags is on, the CPU 31 subsequently performs the determination in step S61. On the other hand, if all the three valid stop button flags are off, the CPU 31 next performs the process of step S11 in FIG.

  Thus, in the reel stop control process, the CPU 31 performs a process (so-called stop control) related to the stop of the symbol fluctuation. Therefore, the stop control means for stopping the fluctuation of the symbol is a means including the CPU 31 for performing the reel stop control process.

  With reference to FIG. 15, a bonus end check process will be described in which the CPU 31 ends the bonus game when the bonus game end condition is satisfied.

  First, the CPU 31 determines whether or not a winning is achieved (step S71). At this time, if it is determined that a winning is achieved, the CPU 31 subsequently performs the process of step S72. On the other hand, when it is determined that no winning has been established, the CPU 31 subsequently performs the process of step S74.

  In step S72, the CPU 31 subtracts “1” from the value of the winning possible number counter. Subsequently, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the possible number of winnings is “0”, that is, whether or not the value of the possible winning number counter is “0” (step S73). At this time, if the value of the winning possible number counter is “0”, the CPU 31 subsequently performs the process of step S76. On the other hand, when the value of the winning possible number counter is not “0”, the CPU 31 subsequently performs the process of step S74.

  In step S74, the CPU 31 subtracts “1” from the value of the possible game number counter. Subsequently, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the possible game number is “0”, that is, whether or not the value of the possible game number counter is “0” (step S75). At this time, if the value of the possible game number counter is “0”, the CPU 31 subsequently performs the process of step S76. On the other hand, when the value of the possible game number counter is not “0”, the CPU 31 next performs the process of step S <b> 16 in FIG. 11.

  In step S76, the CPU 31 performs an RB end process. Specifically, the CPU 31 clears the RB operating flag, the winning possible number counter, and the possible gaming number counter. By performing this process, the operation of the regular bonus game ends. Subsequently, the CPU 31 turns on the special RT2 operating flag and stores “1000” in the special RT game number counter (step S77). That is, the CPU 31 starts the operation of the special RT 2 when the operation of the regular bonus game ends. Here, when the special RT1 operating flag is on, the CPU 31 turns off the special RT1 operating flag. In this way, the simultaneous operation of the special RT1 and the special RT2 is excluded. Next, the CPU 31 performs the process of step S16 in FIG. Here, the CPU 31 may transmit a bonus end command. By transmitting this bonus end command to the sub-control circuit 72, the sub-control circuit 72 can perform an effect such as displaying an image in the effect display area 23 based on the end of the bonus game.

  Thus, in the bonus end check process, the CPU 31 ends the operation of the regular bonus game based on the establishment of the winning and the number of games.

  With reference to FIG. 16, the bonus operation check process in which the CPU 31 operates the bonus game based on the determined display combination type and the like will be described.

  First, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the display combination is RB (step S81). At this time, if the display combination is RB, the CPU 31 subsequently performs the process of step S82. On the other hand, when the display combination is not RB, the CPU 31 subsequently performs the process of step S85.

  In step S82, the CPU 31 performs a bonus operation time process based on the bonus operation time table (FIG. 9). Specifically, the CPU 31 refers to the bonus operating time table (FIG. 9), updates the RB operating flag to ON, stores “8” in the winning possible number counter, and stores “8” in the possible gaming number counter. 12 "is stored. Subsequently, the CPU 31 clears the carryover combination storage area (step S83). Subsequently, the CPU 31 clears the special RT1 operating flag and the special RT2 operating flag, clears the special RT game number counter (step S84), and then performs the process of step S2 of FIG. That is, the CPU 31 ends the operations of the special RT1 and the special RT2 when the combination of symbols related to the RB is displayed along the effective line.

  In step S85, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the display combination is replay. At this time, if the display combination is replay, the CPU 31 copies the value of the insertion number counter to the automatic insertion number counter (step S86), and then performs the process of step S2 in FIG. On the other hand, if the display combination is not replay, the CPU 31 next performs the process of step S2 of FIG.

  Thus, in the bonus operation check process, the CPU 31 starts the operation of the regular bonus game based on the display combination. In other words, when the CPU 31 displays a combination of symbols corresponding to the internal winning combination relating to the bonus game along the active line, the operation of the bonus game is started.

  With reference to FIG. 17, changes in the probability that a replay is determined as an internal winning combination (replay winning probability) will be described. FIG. 17 shows a pattern of fluctuation of probability that replay is determined as an internal winning combination (pattern 1: “normal state → special RT1”, pattern 2: “special RT1 → RB gaming state → special RT2”, pattern 3: Special RT2 → normal state ”, pattern 4:“ special RT2 → special RT1 ”).

  Pattern 1 shows that the state shifts from the normal state to the special RT 1 when RB is determined as an internal winning combination. In other words, in pattern 1, the probability that the replay is determined as the internal winning combination when the internal winning combination related to the bonus game is determined as the internal winning combination is from “54613/65536” to “8980/65536”. ”Is shown.

  Pattern 2 shows that the state transitions from the special RT1 to the RB gaming state when a combination of symbols related to RB is displayed along the active line. Furthermore, pattern 2 shows that the state shifts from the RB gaming state to the special RT 2 when the operation of the RB ends. In other words, in Pattern 2, the probability that the replay is determined as an internal winning combination when the symbol combination related to the bonus game is displayed along the active line is changed from “8980/65536” to “0 / 65536 ". Furthermore, Pattern 2 shows that the probability that the replay is determined as an internal winning combination varies from “0/65536” to “8980/65536” when the operation of the bonus game ends. .

  Pattern 3 shows that the state changes from the special RT 2 to the normal state when a predetermined number of start operations are detected. In other words, in pattern 3, the probability that the replay is determined as an internal winning combination when the numerical information stored in the special RT game number counter is updated to predetermined numerical information is “8980/65536”. To "54613/65536".

  Pattern 4 shows that the state transitions from special RT2 to special RT1 when RB is determined as an internal winning combination. If the probability that the replay is determined as the internal winning combination in the special RT1 and the probability that the replay is determined as the internal winning combination in the special RT2 are different from each other, the internal winning combination related to the bonus game is determined as the internal winning combination. As a result, the probability that the replay is determined as an internal winning combination will fluctuate.

  As described above, FIG. 17 shows that the probability that the replay is determined as an internal winning combination fluctuates when each of the normal state, special RT1, special RT2, and RB gaming state shifts to another state. Has been. Here, the pattern 1 and the pattern 3 in which many new ideas are included among the patterns 1 to 4 will be further described.

  First, the pattern 1 will be described. In the normal state, the CPU 31 ends the operation in the normal state and starts the operation of the special RT 1 when the RB is determined as the internal winning combination. That is, the probability that the replay is determined as an internal winning combination varies from “54613/65536” (ie, the second probability) to “8980/65536” (ie, the third probability) that is lower than the second probability. . From the viewpoint of enjoying the benefits related to replay, the special RT 1 is in a disadvantageous state compared to the normal state. However, in the special RT1, the CPU 31 determines the RB as an internal winning combination based on the detection of the start operation until the symbol combination related to the RB is displayed along the active line. Therefore, it can be said that the special RT1 is advantageous for the player from the viewpoint of enjoying the profit related to the RB. From these facts, a player who wants to enjoy the benefits related to the RB expects that the operation of the special RT1 starts.

  Here, in the embodiment, as shown in the internal lottery table for the general gaming state, the second probability that the replay is determined as the internal winning combination in the normal state is very high. In the embodiment, when the replay is determined as the internal winning combination, even if an internal winning combination other than the replay is determined as the internal winning combination, the replay is performed regardless of the timing of the player's stop operation. The symbol combination related to is displayed along the active line.

  That is, even if RB is determined as an internal winning combination, it is difficult to display a combination of symbols related to RB along the effective line if the probability that the replay is determined as an internal winning combination is very high. Problems can arise. Therefore, in the embodiment, a configuration in which the probability that the replay is determined as the internal winning combination varies from the second probability to the third probability that is lower than the second probability, when RB is determined as the internal winning combination. By adopting, this problem is avoided.

  According to the configuration described above, when the CPU 31 determines a replay to be an internal winning combination with the second probability, the CPU 31 has determined that an internal winning combination (ie, RB) related to a specific symbol combination has been determined to be an internal winning combination. The replay is determined as an internal winning combination with a third probability lower than the second probability. That is, the CPU 31 determines the replay as the internal winning combination with the second probability until the internal winning combination relating to the bonus game is determined as the internal winning combination. Therefore, for the player, after enjoying the advantageous state that the replay is determined as the internal winning combination with the second probability, the bonus game can be further enjoyed. As described above, the operating rate of the gaming machine 1 can be improved by increasing the player's expectation.

  Next, the pattern 3 will be described. The CPU 31 terminates the operation of the special RT 2 and starts the operation in the normal state when the start operation is detected a predetermined number of times in the special RT 2. That is, the probability that the replay is determined as the internal winning combination varies from “8980/65536” (first probability) to “54613/65536” (second probability) higher than the first probability. From the viewpoint of enjoying the benefits related to replay, the normal state is more advantageous than the special RT2 for the player. From this, the player wants the operation of the special RT 2 to end.

  Here, the CPU 31 may end the operation of the special RT 2 when the RB is determined as the internal winning combination (pattern 4). However, as shown in the general gaming state internal lottery table, the probability that RB is determined as the internal winning combination is low. Therefore, if only the configuration in which the RB is determined as an internal winning combination is the condition for ending the operation of the special RT2, the situation in which the operation of the special RT2 does not end even though the player performs a considerable start operation occurs. Can do. Therefore, in the embodiment, a configuration is adopted in which the operation of the special RT 2 is terminated when the numerical information stored in the special RT game number counter is updated to predetermined numerical information based on the detection of the start operation. This avoids this situation. In other words, the second probability is based on a certain number of games played to rescue the player from the disadvantage that the replay is determined as an internal winning combination with the first probability. Therefore, a configuration (so-called ceiling) is adopted in which the operation in an advantageous state in which the replay is determined as an internal winning combination is started.

  According to the above-described configuration, the CPU 31 determines the replay as an internal winning combination with a first probability when the operation of the bonus game is terminated. Further, the CPU 31 determines that the replay is an internal winning combination with a second probability higher than the first probability when the numerical information updated based on the detection of the start operation is updated to the predetermined numerical information. Is. That is, according to the gaming machine 1, when the numerical information is updated to the predetermined numerical information based on the detection of the start operation, the replay is determined to be an internal winning combination with the second probability. By being aware of the starting operation, it is possible to remove the anxiety that it is not known how long the state where the replay is determined to be an internal winning combination with the first probability will continue. Therefore, since the anxiety that causes the gaming machine 1 to be avoided can be removed, it is possible to avoid as much as possible the situation that the operating rate of the gaming machine 1 caused by this anxiety is lowered. Furthermore, the player can enjoy a state in which the replay is determined as an internal winning combination with the second probability.

  The superordinate concept of the CPU 31 derived based on the above can be said to be a means for changing the probability that the replay is determined to be an internal winning combination based on numerical information relating to the degree of advantage for the player.

  With reference to FIG. 18, an image that suggests or clearly indicates to the player that the state is in the normal state will be described.

  FIG. 18 is an example of an image output when the value of the special RT game number counter becomes “0”, and shows that the effect display area 23 is entirely red. This can be realized, for example, by superimposing a red translucent polygon on the image displayed when the special RT 2 is operating.

  Thus, based on the information included in the start command or the like output by the CPU 31 of the main control circuit 71, when the sub control circuit 72 and the liquid crystal display device 131 have a value of the special RT game number counter that is not “0”, That is, when the special RT 2 is operating, a video that is not displayed (hereinafter referred to as “special video”) is output in the effect display area 23, so that the normal state is activated and the probability that the replay is determined as an internal winning combination is high. It is possible to suggest or clearly indicate to the player that the player is in the state. When the normal state is activated, RB is determined as the internal winning combination, and when the special RT1 is activated, the special image shown in FIG. 18 is displayed even though the normal state is not activated. You may be made to do. Even with such a configuration, it can be said that the player can distinguish between when the normal state is operating and when the special RT 2 is operating. Of course, it is also possible to output a video different from the special video according to the operation of the special RT1. In addition to or instead of outputting the special video, a sound that is not output when the special RT 2 is not operating (hereinafter referred to as “special sound”) may be output. The player can also know that the state is in the normal state by listening to the special sound.

  Further, the sub-control circuit 72 and the liquid crystal display device 131 may make the effect display area 23 yellow as a whole on condition that the value of the special RT game number counter is 50 or less and 1 or more. . In this way, the sub-control circuit 72 and the liquid crystal display device 131 output a video that is not output at other times (hereinafter referred to as “specific video”) on condition that the value of the special RT game number counter is in a specific range. Thus, for example, the player can see that the probability that a replay will be determined as an internal winning combination within 50 games is increased by watching this specific video. In addition to this, when the value of the special RT game number counter is 150 or less and 51 or more, the sub-control circuit 72 and the liquid crystal display device 131 make the effect display area 23 blue overall. It may be. In this way, the sub control circuit 72 and the liquid crystal display device 131 change the output video in a stepwise manner according to the value of the special RT game number counter, so that there is a probability that the replay is determined as an internal winning combination. The player can be given a clue to know the number of times until the game becomes high, and the player has an inflection in his expectation.

  As mentioned above, although the Example was described, this invention is not limited to this.

  In the embodiment, “1000” is stored in the special RT game number counter based on the end of the operation of the RB (that is, initial setting), and the value of the special RT game number counter is set to “1” every time the start operation is detected. ”, And when the result of this calculation becomes“ 0 ”, the operation of the special RT 2 is terminated and the normal operation is started. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, “0” is stored in the special RT game number counter based on the end of the operation of the RB (that is, initial setting), and the value of the special RT game number counter is set to “1” every time the start operation is detected. It is good also as a structure which starts the action | operation of a normal state in response to having reached predetermined number of times (for example, "1000").

  Also, according to this configuration, when the number of start operations detected in one special RT2 (so-called number of games) reaches 1000 times, the operation of the special RT2 is terminated and the normal operation is performed. Start, but not limited to this. For example, when the number of medals provided for a game accumulated in one special RT2 reaches a predetermined number (for example, 1000), the operation of the special RT2 is terminated and the normal operation is started. You may employ | adopt the structure to do.

  In the embodiment, a predetermined value (“1000”) is stored in the special RT game number counter, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the value stored in the special RT game number counter may be set according to the set value. At this time, the higher the set value, the smaller the stored value. In addition, for example, the value stored in the special RT game number counter may be set by lottery in consideration of the set value. As described above, by providing the player with the special RT 2 related to the set value that is highly interested in the player, the operating rate of the gaming machine 1 can be improved.

  In the embodiment, the CPU 31 performs the special RT game number counter update process based on the detection of the start operation, but is not limited thereto. For example, the CPU 31 may perform a special RT game number counter update process based on the detection of the input operation, the detection of the stop operation, and the like. That is, the special RT game number counter updating process is performed based on a series of processes (steps S2 to S16) repeatedly performed by the CPU 31 so that the special RT game number counter is updated for each game. .

  Furthermore, in addition to the gaming machine 1 as in the embodiment, the present invention can be applied to other gaming machines such as pachinko gaming machines and parrots. Furthermore, a game can be executed by applying the present invention even in a game program in which the operation of the gaming machine 1 described above is executed in a pseudo manner for a home game machine. In that case, a CD-ROM, FD (flexible disk), or any other recording medium can be used as a recording medium for recording the game program.

The perspective view which shows the external appearance of a gaming machine. The figure which shows the panel display part of a liquid crystal display device, a liquid crystal display part, and a fixed display part. The figure which shows the example of the pattern arranged on the reel. The block diagram which shows the structure of an electric circuit. The figure which shows an internal lottery table determination table. The figure which shows an internal lottery table. The figure which shows an internal winning combination determination table. The figure which shows a symbol combination table. The figure which shows a table at the time of a bonus action | operation. The figure which shows the storage area of an internal winning combination and a carryover combination. The main flowchart of a main control circuit. The flowchart which shows medal reception / start check processing. The flowchart which shows an internal lottery process. The flowchart which shows a reel stop control process. The flowchart which shows a bonus completion | finish check process. The flowchart which shows a bonus action check process. The figure which shows the variation pattern of the winning probability of a replay. The figure which shows the example of the image | video output to an effect display area.

Explanation of symbols

1 gaming machine 2 front door 3L, 3C, 3R reel 6 start lever 7L, 7C, 7R stop button 30 microcomputer 31 CPU
32 ROM
33 RAM
71 Main control circuit 72 Sub control circuit

Claims (1)

A symbol display means for displaying a plurality of symbols;
Start operation detecting means for detecting the start operation;
An internal winning combination determining means for determining an internal winning combination based on detection of a start operation performed by the start operation detecting means;
A symbol changing means for changing a symbol displayed by the symbol display means based on detection of a starting operation performed by the start operation detecting means;
Stop operation detecting means for detecting the stop operation;
Stop control means for performing stop control of symbol variation performed by the symbol variation means based on the internal symbol combination determined by the internal winning combination determination means and detection of a stop operation performed by the stop operation detection means;
When a specific symbol combination is displayed by the symbol display means, a bonus game operation starting means for starting the operation of the bonus game;
Bonus game operation ending means for ending operation of the bonus game started by the bonus game operation start means;
Numerical information updating means for updating numerical information based on detection of a starting operation performed by the starting operation detecting means, etc., when the bonus game operation ending means ends the operation of the bonus game;
Video display means for displaying a specific video triggered by the numerical information updated by the numerical information update means being updated to predetermined numerical information ,
The internal winning combination determining means is:
With the bonus game operation ending means ending the operation of the bonus game, replay is determined as an internal winning combination with a first probability,
When the numerical information updated by the numerical information updating means is updated to predetermined numerical information, replay is determined as an internal winning combination with a second probability higher than the first probability ,
A third probability lower than the second probability when the internal winning combination related to the specific symbol combination is determined to be an internal winning combination when replay is determined as an internal winning combination with the second probability With replay decided as an internal winning role,
The video display means includes
When the specific video is displayed when the numerical information updated by the numerical information updating means is updated to predetermined numerical information, the internal winning combination determining means is set to the specific symbol combination. When the internal winning combination is determined as an internal winning combination, even when the replay is determined as an internal winning combination with a third probability lower than the second probability, the specific video is displayed . A gaming machine characterized by

Images