JP5210622B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine such as a pachislot 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. Requests to start reel rotation based on player's operation (hereinafter referred to as “start operation”) on condition that a display window for displaying the symbol so that the player can see and a medal is inserted A start switch that outputs a signal to perform, a stop switch that outputs a signal requesting the stop of rotation of the reel according to the type of the reel, based on an operation by the player (hereinafter referred to as “stop operation”), and these start 2. Description of the Related Art A gaming machine (so-called pachislot machine) including a control unit that controls the operation of a motor based on signals output from a switch and a stop switch, and rotates and stops each reel is known. There. In such a pachi-slot, it is determined whether or not a winning is made based on a combination of symbols displayed by the plurality of display windows, and medals are paid out when it is determined that a winning is achieved.

  Currently, the mainstream pachislot machine performs an internal lottery when it detects a start operation by a player, and stops the reel rotation based on the result of the lottery and the timing of the stop operation by the player. For example, when the result related to winning is determined by the internal lottery described above (hereinafter, the result of the internal lottery is referred to as “internal winning combination”), the player performs a stop operation so that the winning is established. Even after the operation is performed, the rotation of the reel continues within a predetermined period (for example, 190 ms), and then stops. Further, if the internal winning combination relating to winning is not determined, the rotation of the reel is stopped so that winning is not established. In other words, in such a game machine, a stop operation (so-called “eye push”) at an appropriate timing is required in many situations, and what combination of symbols is displayed on the display window when the rotation of the reel is stopped. Is related to the timing of the stop operation, that is, the skill of the player.

In addition, in order to maintain and improve the operation of the gaming machine and to improve the interest of the gaming machine, a display device for displaying an image in addition to the reel is provided (see Patent Document 1), and the sliding of the reel (See Patent Documents 2 and 3) and the like are known.
JP 2000-229145 A JP 2003-175147 A JP 2006-198297 A

  However, the display of an image on the display device as in Patent Document 1 is only used as an auxiliary effect, and the player can determine the result of the game (what role won or what The game is focused on the reel that informs the player that the prize has not been won, and even if the image is displayed on the display device, the interest of the game cannot be improved sufficiently effectively. It was.

  However, the reels that the player is paying attention to have changed only by sliding the reels as described in Patent Documents 2 and 3, except for simply changing and stopping, and the interests of the game are enhanced. There was a problem that it could not be improved sufficiently effectively.

  Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to effectively improve the interest of the game by changing the movement of the reel that the player pays attention to as a notification of the game result.

  (1) The present invention provides a plurality of reels each provided with a plurality of symbols for informing a game result, and a display window for visually recognizing a part of the plurality of symbols for each reel, A start operation detecting means for detecting a start operation, a stop operation detecting means for detecting a stop operation, a special condition permission determining means for determining whether or not to allow a special condition to be established, and the special condition permission A special condition satisfaction determination means for determining whether or not the special condition is satisfied by a determination means, and a detection of a start operation performed by the start operation detection means to rotate the reels and display them on the display window When the stop operation is detected by the stop operation detecting means, the rotation of the reel corresponding to the stop operation is stopped to stop the reel. It is determined that the special condition is satisfied by the symbol display control means for stopping and displaying the symbol on the display window within a predetermined number of frames from the position where the stop operation is detected, and the special condition satisfaction determining means. A special gaming state control means for controlling the gaming state to a special gaming state that is relatively advantageous to the player, and the symbol display control means is configured to control the display window when a predetermined condition is satisfied. The special symbol combination for notifying that the special condition is permitted to be established by the special condition permission determining means at an outer position is stopped, and thereby the special symbol is placed at a position outside the display window. If a stop operation is detected by the stop operation detecting means when the combination is stopped, the reels are rotated while maintaining the special symbol combination. Re-variation is performed to re-variate the symbols displayed in the window, and after the re-variation is performed, the reels are re-stopped again, and the special condition permission determining means determines the special condition. When established, the gaming machine is characterized in that the special symbol combination is displayed at a position in the display window.

  According to the present invention, even if the player thinks that he / she could not shift to the special game state due to the combination of the symbols stopped, the reels are re-varied and re-stopped by performing the start operation afterwards, A combination of specific symbols that notify that the establishment is permitted is displayed on the display window to notify the establishment of a special condition, so even when a combination of symbols that cannot be transferred to the special gaming state is displayed, the player Since the game can be continued with expectation, the interest of the game can be improved effectively.

  (2) In this case, when the predetermined condition is satisfied and the combination of the special symbols is stopped at a position outside the display window, the symbol display control unit starts the start operation by the start operation detecting unit. Each time detection is performed, the re-variation and re-stop are repeated by performing the re-variation and re-stop within a distance of a predetermined symbol in the predetermined direction of each reel, and the special condition is permitted. When the special condition is satisfied by the determining means, the special symbol combination is displayed at a position in the display window by repeating the re-variation and the re-stop, and the special condition is satisfied. If not, the special symbol combination may be stopped at a position outside the display window by repeating the re-variation and the re-stop.

  According to the present invention, the reel performs re-variation and re-stop for each start operation, and a specific symbol combination may be displayed by a plurality of start operations. Furthermore, the interest of the game can be improved.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to effectively improve the interest of the game by changing the movement of the reel that the player pays attention to as a notification of the game result.

  Hereinafter, the configuration and operation of a gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[External configuration]
FIG. 1 is a front view showing an appearance of a gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment. The gaming machine 1 is specifically an example of a pachislot machine. The gaming machine 1 is a gaming machine that uses a gaming medium such as a card that stores information on gaming value assigned to or given to a player in addition to coins, medals, gaming balls, tokens, and the like. However, in the following description, medals are used as game media.

  Three small main reels 2, 3, 4 are provided inside the cabinet behind the frame provided at the center of the control panel of the gaming machine 1. Hereinafter, the main reel 2 is also referred to as a left reel 2, the main reel 3 is also referred to as a middle reel 3, and the main reel 4 is also referred to as a right reel 4. Each of the main reels 2 to 4 is rotated vertically, and a symbol row in which a plurality of types of symbols are arranged is drawn on the outer peripheral surface thereof. In addition, sub-reels 5, 6 and 7 larger than the main reels 2 to 4 are provided inside the cabinet above the main reels 2 to 4. Each of the sub reels 5 to 7 rotates vertically, and a symbol row in which a plurality of types of symbols for effect display are arranged is drawn on the outer peripheral surface thereof.

  A reel display window 39 serving as a display window is provided at the front of the main reels 2 to 4, and a symbol row drawn on the outer peripheral surface of each main reel 2 to 4 is displayed through the reel display window 39. It can be visually recognized in the range of three. A reel display window 50 is provided in front of the sub reels 5 to 7, and the display reels 5A, 6A, and 7A formed in the reel display window 50 pass through the outer peripheral surfaces of the sub reels 5 to 7. The drawn symbol row can be visually recognized within the range of three symbols.

  Each of the main reels 2 to 4 and the sub reels 5 to 7 has a reel band attached to the outer periphery of the reel drum, and the symbol row is drawn on the reel band. In addition, inside the reel drums constituting the main reels 2 to 4 and the sub reels 5 to 7, light is emitted in various colors that illuminate the pattern drawn on the reel band attached to each reel drum from behind. Reel back lamps 47a, 47b, 47c, and reel back lamps 48a, 48b, 48c made of LEDs (light emitting diodes) are provided.

  The control panel on the right side of the reel display window 39 is provided with a slot 9 for a player to insert medals. Prior to the start of the game, when a player inserts a medal from the insertion slot 9, a plurality of winning lines (not shown in FIG. 1) on the reel display window 39 and the display windows 5A to 7A of the reel display window 50 are displayed. A plurality of pay lines (not shown in FIG. 1) are each activated. When a predetermined combination of symbols is aligned on the activated pay line (valid line), a display combination is established.

  In the reel display window 50 on the left side of the display windows 5A to 7A, from above, the bonus count display unit 10, the medal insertion number display lamps (bet lamps) 13 to 15, the payout number display unit 16, and the stored number display unit 17 are displayed. , And game operation indicators 18 to 22 are provided. The bonus count display unit 10 is composed of a three-digit 7-segment LED and digitally displays the number of remaining winnings that can be made in an RB (regular bonus) gaming state, which will be described later, when the bonus game is activated. The medal insertion number display lamps (bet lamps) 13 to 15 are controlled to be lit according to the number of medals inserted, and inform the player of the number of medals inserted at that time. The number-of-payout display unit 16 is composed of a 2-digit 7-segment LED, and displays the number of medals paid out by winning. The stored number display unit 17 is made up of a three-digit 7-segment LED and displays the number of medals currently credited inside the apparatus. The game operation indicators 18 to 22 are controlled to be turned on according to the game situation, and inform the player of the game situation at that time.

  The reel display window 50 on the right side of the display windows 5A to 7A is provided with a game number display 23, a game state suggestion lamp 24, a start lamp 25, a WIN lamp 26, and an insert lamp 27 from the top. Yes. The number-of-games display unit 23 is made up of a three-digit 7-sediment LED and digitally displays a predetermined remaining number of games. The gaming state suggestion lamp 24 includes a gaming state suggestion lamp 24a and a gaming state suggestion lamp 24b, and lighting control is performed according to the gaming state. The start lamp 25 blinks when the main reels 2 to 4 are operable. The WIN lamp 26 is turned on when a winning combination (internal winning combination) relating to the operation of the bonus game is determined. Further, the insert lamp 27 is turned on when the insertion slot 9 can accept insertion of medals.

  The control panel on the left side of the reel display window 39 includes a 1-stored medal insertion button (1-bet button) 30, a 2-stored medal insertion button (2-bet button) 31, and a 3-storage medal insertion button (max bet button) 32. Is provided. Each of these stored medal insertion buttons 30 to 32 displays one to three medals to the insertion slot 9 in one game when the number of medals is displayed on the stored number display unit 17 and is credited. Used when betting instead of insertion.

  From the left side, a start lever 33, stop buttons (stop buttons) 34, 35, and 36, and a stored medal settlement button 37 are provided below the control panel provided with the reel display window 39.

  The start lever 33 is a lever for performing a start operation for starting a unit game (one game), and constitutes a start operation means. That is, the rotation of the main reels 2 to 4 and the sub reels 5 to 7 starts simultaneously by operating the start lever 33. That is, with the start operation as a trigger, the symbols displayed by the main reels 2 to 4 are changed.

  The left, middle, and right stop buttons 34, 35, and 36 are arranged corresponding to the left, middle, and right main main reels 2, 3, and 4, respectively, and also on the sub reels 5, 6, and 7, respectively. The operation is enabled when the rotation of the main reels 2 to 4 reaches a certain speed, and the rotation of the main reels 2 to 4 and the sub reels 5 to 7 is stopped according to the player's operation. Perform a stop operation. Each of the stop buttons 34 to 36 constitute stop operation means for stopping the change of the symbols in the plurality of rows by the main reels 2 to 4. Here, when all the main reels 2 to 4 and the sub reels 5 to 7 are rotating, the first stop operation performed after the first stop operation and the second stop operation performed after the first stop operation are performed. The stop operation performed after the stop operation and the second stop operation is referred to as a third stop operation. The first reel stop is referred to as a first stop, the second reel stop is referred to as a second stop, and the third reel stop is referred to as a third stop.

  The stored medal settlement button 37 is used to switch between playing a game by crediting medals into the apparatus or directly inserting a medal into the slot 9 and playing all medals credited inside the apparatus. Used when paying out and paying.

  A medal tray 52 is provided at the lower front portion of the gaming machine 1. The medal tray 52 stores medals paid out from the medal payout port 53. A speaker 54 is provided to the right of the medal payout opening 53. A pair of speakers 96 and 96 are also provided on the left and right sides of the front upper portion of the gaming machine 1.

  Inside the housing of the gaming machine 1, there are a setting button (not shown) operated when setting a setting value of a payout rate and a reset button (not shown) operated when selecting a setting value of a payout rate. Is provided. The payout rate indicates the ratio of the total number of medals paid out to the total number of medals inserted into the gaming machine 1. In this example, six levels of setting values 1 to 6 are prepared.

  Here, “unit game (1 game)” means that the main reels 2 to 4 rotate in response to the player's operation on the start lever 33 and then the main game in response to the player's operation on the stop buttons 34 to 36. The rotation of the reels 2 to 4 is stopped, and the start of the next game is permitted until the medals are paid out according to the combination of symbols aligned on the winning line activated at this time (next time Before the game).

[Hardware configuration]
FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an electrical connection of a main control board (main control board) 61 that controls the game processing operation of the gaming machine 1, and FIG. 3 is a sub-control that controls the rendering operation of the gaming machine 1. 6 is a block diagram showing electrical connection of a control system centering on a substrate (sub control substrate) 62. FIG.

  The control unit in the main control board 61 shown in FIG. 2 includes a microcomputer 63 as a main component and a circuit for random number sampling added thereto. The microcomputer 63 includes a CPU (main CPU) 64 that performs a control operation in accordance with a preset program, a program ROM 65 that stores various programs and fixed data, and a control RAM 66 with a backup function that serves as a work area for the CPU 64. ing.

  The CPU 64 includes a clock pulse generation circuit 67 that generates a reference clock pulse, a frequency divider 68 that divides the reference clock pulse, a random number generator 69 that generates a certain range of random numbers, and 1 of the generated random numbers. A sampling circuit 70 that identifies one is connected. Further, the CPU 64 is connected to an I / O port (input / output port) 71 that exchanges signals with various peripheral devices described later.

  The main actuators whose operation is controlled by a control signal from the microcomputer 63 include a stepping motor 45 that rotationally drives the main reels 2 to 4, various lamps (bet lamps 13 to 15, start lamp 25, WIN lamp 26, insert Lamp 27), various display units (game operation indicators 18 to 22, stored number display unit 17, bonus count display unit 10, game number display unit 23, payout number display unit 16), hopper 72 for storing medals, and the like. . These are driven by a motor drive circuit 73, lamp drive circuits 74, display unit drive circuits 75, and a hopper drive circuit 76, respectively. These drive circuits 73 to 76 are connected to the CPU 64 via the I / O port 71.

  As main input signal generating means for generating an input signal necessary for the microcomputer 63 to generate a control signal, an operation of the inserted medal sensor 9S for detecting a medal inserted from the insertion slot 9 and the start lever 33 are performed. Detection start switch 33S, storage medal insertion buttons 30, 31, 32 detecting operation of stored medal insertion switches 30S, 31S, 32S, storage medal adjustment switch 37S detecting operation of stored medal adjustment button 37, setting button not shown There are a setting switch 56S for detecting the operation of the reset button and a reset switch 55S for detecting the operation of the reset button.

  The start switch 33S constitutes start operation detecting means for detecting that a unit game start operation has been performed by inserting a medal into the insertion slot 9 and operating the start lever 33. The random number generator 69 constitutes random number generating means for generating a random number.

  Further, as the input signal generating means, a reel position detection circuit 77 for detecting the rotational position of each main reel 2 to 4 in response to an output pulse signal from a photo sensor provided inside each main reel 2 to 4. There is. The photo sensor is included in the driving mechanism of each main reel 2 to 4 and is not shown in FIG.

  The reel position detection circuit 77 counts the number of drive pulses supplied to each of the stepping motors 45 after the rotation of the main reels 2 to 4 is started, and this count value is written in a predetermined area of the control RAM 66. Therefore, in the control RAM 66, for each of the main reels 2 to 4, a count value corresponding to the rotation position within one rotation range is stored as a reel index indicating the rotation position of the main reel. The photosensor generates a reset pulse every time the main reels 2 to 4 make one rotation. The reset pulse is recognized by the CPU 64 via the reel position detection circuit 77, and the count value of the drive pulse counted by the control RAM 66 is cleared to “0”. By this clearing process, the difference between the movement display of each symbol and the rotation of each stepping smoke 45 is eliminated every rotation.

  Here, symbol positions “0” to “17” for identifying each of the symbols arranged on the peripheral surfaces of the main reels 2 to 4 are defined in order from the rotation direction of the reels ( (See FIG. 21). The reels are positioned so that the symbol corresponding to the symbol position “0” is positioned on the center line (more precisely, the center of the area 2m to 4m (FIG. 4) of each of the main reels 2 to 4 described later). The position detection circuit 77 is configured to detect the reel index. For example, when the value of the symbol counter stored in the RAM 66 that counts the number of symbols by detecting the reel index becomes “0”, the symbol corresponding to the symbol position “0” is positioned at the center line, As a result, the symbol counter is associated with the symbol position. Therefore, by referring to the symbol counter, it is possible to specify the symbol located on the center line.

  A reel stop signal circuit 78 that generates a signal for stopping the corresponding main reels 2 to 4 when the stop buttons 34 to 36 are pressed, a medal detection unit 72S that counts the number of medals paid out from the hopper 72, and a payout completion (not shown) The signal generation circuit serves as input signal generation means. These are also connected to the CPU 64 via the I / O port 71. The payout completion signal generation circuit pays out medals when the actually paid out medal count value input from the medal detection unit 72S reaches the payout number data represented by the count signal input from each display unit drive circuit 75. Generates a signal to detect completion of

  The reel stop signal circuit 78 constitutes a stop operation detecting means for detecting a stop operation of a changing symbol. Further, the stepping motor 45, the motor drive circuit 73, the reel position detection circuit 77, and the microcomputer 63 are based on the symbols displayed by the main reels 2 to 4 based on the detection of the symbol stop operation performed by the reel stop signal circuit 78. The stop control means is configured to display the symbols corresponding to the internal winning combination determined from among the symbols within a predetermined symbol variation range and to stop the variation of the symbols displayed by the main reels 2 to 4. Further, the hopper 72, the medal detection unit 72S, the hopper driving circuit 76, the payout completion signal generation circuit, and the microcomputer 63 give the player a medal based on the combination of symbols stopped and displayed on the main reels 2 to 4 by the stop control means. A game medium payout means for paying out the game.

  A sub-control unit communication port 79 is connected to the I / O port 71, and the microcomputer 63 sends a signal to the sub-control board 62 via the sub-control unit communication port 79. The sub control board 62 shown in FIG. 3 is provided with a main control unit communication port 88 that receives this signal via the main sub relay board 97 and the sub relay board 98. Communication between the sub control unit communication port 79 and the main control unit communication port 88 is performed only in one direction from the sub control unit communication port 79 to the main control unit communication port 88 (from the main control unit communication port 88 to the sub control unit communication port 88). The control signal is not transmitted to the control unit communication port 79). In the present embodiment, the control signal (command) sent from the sub-control unit communication boat 79 to the main control unit communication port 88 is a 7-bit command type indicating the control type and a maximum 24-bit length. It consists of parameters that describe the contents of the command.

  The sub control board 62 performs a predetermined effect based on a command transmitted from the main control board 61. The control unit in the sub-control board 62 is configured with the microcomputer 81 as a main component. Similarly to the microcomputer 63 on the main control board 61, the microcomputer 81 also has a CPU (sub CPU) 82 that performs a control operation according to a preset program, a ROM 83 that stores various control programs and fixed data, and a work area of the CPU 82. And a control RAM 84 with a backup function. Also connected to the CPU 82 are a clock pulse generation circuit 85 that generates a reference clock pulse, a frequency divider 86 that divides the reference clock pulse, and an I / O port 87 that exchanges signals with each actuator. ing.

  The CPU 82 performs overall control processing of game effects according to a predetermined processing procedure. This processing procedure is stored in the ROM 83 as a sequence program. The CPU 82 is connected to the ROM 83 via the address bus disconnection circuit 89 and the data bus via the data bus disconnection circuit 90. The CPU 82 first reads the information stored in the ROM 83 when the chip select terminal S of the ROM 83 is read. Then, an L level signal is output via the I / O port 87, and subsequently, an L level signal is also output via the I / O port 87 to the output enable terminals E of the disconnecting circuits 89 and 90.

  In each of the separation circuits 89 and 90, when the H level signal is input to the output enable terminal E, the data output terminal is in a high impedance state, and the CPU 82 and the ROM 83 are electrically insulated. Thus, the address bus data and data bus data input from the CPU 82 to the data input terminals of the disconnect circuits 89 and 90 are not output from the data output terminals of the disconnect circuits 89 and 90. However, when the L level signal is input to the respective output enable terminals E, the disconnecting circuits 89 and 90 receive the address bus data and data bus data input from the CPU 82 to the respective data input terminals as they are from the data output terminals. Output. With this data output, the CPU 82 can perform information read access to the ROM 83 via the address bus and the data bus.

  A sub reel control unit 62 a is connected to the sub relay board 98. As an actuator whose operation is controlled by a control signal from the microcomputer 81, a stepping motor 101 that rotates and drives the sub reels 5 to 7 in the sub reel control unit 62a, reel back lamps 47a to 47c built in the main reels 2 to 4, respectively. There are reel back lamps 48a to 48c built in the sub reels 5 to 7 and the game state suggestion lamp 24 described above. Each stepping motor 101 is driven by a motor drive circuit 103. Further, lighting of the reel back lamps 47 a to 47 c and the gaming state suggestion lamp 24 is controlled by a drive signal from a lamp drive circuit 89 connected to the I / O port 87. The reel back lamps 48 a to 48 c are controlled by a drive signal from the lamp drive circuit 107. The lamp driving circuit 107 is connected to the sub relay board 98 and operates based on a command from the CPU 82.

  As an input signal generating means for generating an input signal necessary for the microcomputer 81 to generate a control signal, the rotational position of the sub reels 5 to 7 is received in response to an output pulse signal from a photosensor provided on the sub reels 5 to 7. There is a reel position detection circuit 105 for detecting the above. This photosensor is included in the drive mechanism of each of the sub reels 5 to 7 and is not shown in FIG.

  A ROM 83 is connected to the sound source IC 91 via an address bus and a data bus. The ROM 83 stores audio data in addition to the sequence program of the CPU 82, and the chip select terminal S is connected to the I / O port 87. The sound source IC 91 transmits the output of the power amplifier 92 to the speakers 54, 96, and 96 through the I / O port 87, the main control unit communication port 88, and the sub relay board 98 under the control of the microcomputer 81 to output sound. . The microcomputer 81 controls the sound source IC 91 and the war amplifier 92 in accordance with instructions input from the main control board 61 via the main sub-relay board 97, the sub-relay board 98, and the main control unit communication port 88, and the medal insertion sound, start lever Sound effects such as operation sounds, stop button operation sounds, and game sounds during bonus games are output from the speakers 54, 96, and 96. In addition, sound is output from the speakers 54, 96, and 96 in a sound output pattern based on the presentation mode selected based on the game state and the internal winning combination information captured from the main control board 61.

  The sound source IC 91 includes a control terminal C connected to the I / O port 87, a bus opening control terminal Z, and a reset terminal R, and outputs sound from the speakers 54, 96, and 96 according to signals input to the control terminal C. To control. When the signal input to the bus opening control terminal Z is at the L level, the tone generator IC 91 validates the address bus and the data bus, and enables read information access to the ROM 83 using each bus. However, when the signal input to the bus opening control terminal Z is at the H level, the address bus and the data bus are set to the high impedance state, and the electrical connection between the sound source IC 91 and the ROM 83 is cut off to perform the information read access to the ROM 83. To lose. When the sound source IC 91 detects that a high level signal is input to the reset terminal R, the sound source IC 91 starts its operation.

  The address bus disconnection circuit 89, the data bus disconnection circuit 90, and the CPU 82 described above control signals input to the output enable terminal K of each of the disconnection circuits 89, 90 and the bus opening control terminal Z of the sound source IC 91. The information read access to the ROM 83 is restricted to either the CPU 82 or the sound source IC 91, and access adjustment is performed so as not to allow simultaneous access. That is, when the CPU 82 is to perform information read access to the ROM 83, an L level signal is input to the output enable terminal E of each disconnection circuit 89, 90 by this access arbitration, and the address bus between the CPU 82 and the ROM 83. And the data bus are electrically connected, and an H level signal is input to the bus opening control terminal Z of the sound source IC 91, so that the electrical connection by the address bus and data bus between the sound source IC 91 and the ROM 83 is established. Refused. On the other hand, when the sound source IC 91 is to perform information reading access to the ROM 83, an H level signal is input to the output enable terminal E of each of the disconnecting circuits 89 and 90 by the access arbitration, and the address bus between the CPU 82 and the ROM 83. In addition, the electrical connection by the data bus is cut off, the L level signal is input to the bus opening control terminal Z of the sound source IC 91, and the address bus and the data bus between the sound source IC 91 and the ROM 83 are electrically connected. To be.

  The bus opening control terminal Z of the sound source IC 91 and the chip select terminal S of the ROM 83 are connected to the dividing circuit 93. When the signal input to the bus release control terminal Z is at the L level and the signal input to the chip select terminal S is also at the L level, the dividing circuit 93 falls into a state where the CPU 82 cannot perform control processing and is in a runaway state. H level signals are output to the output enable terminals E of the address bus disconnection circuit 89 and the data bus disconnection circuit 90, and the address bus and data bus between the CPU 82 and the ROM 83 are electrically connected. To be insulated. The dividing circuit 93 divides an electrical connection path through which the CPU 82 accesses the ROM 83 when the CPU 82 falls into a state where control processing cannot be performed.

[Main tables and storage areas]
Next, various main tables and various storage areas used in the main control board 61 will be described. These tables are stored in the program ROM 65 or the like, and a storage area or the like is prepared in the control RAM 66 or the like.

  The symbol arrangement table will be described with reference to FIG.

  The symbol arrangement table represents the configuration of symbols arranged around each reel as data. FIG. 4 is a symbol arrangement table for the main reels 2, 3 and 4. In the symbol arrangement table, when the reel index is detected, the symbol located in the middle of each symbol display area is defined as symbol position “0”, and symbol positions “0” to “18” corresponding to the symbol counter described above are displayed. The symbol type corresponding to each symbol position is defined. Each symbol type is represented by 1-byte data. Therefore, based on the symbol arrangement table and the symbol counter, a symbol located in the middle of the symbol display area of each reel, a symbol adjacent to the symbol, and the like can be specified. The symbols displayed on the main reels 2, 3, and 4 are referred to as special symbols.

  In the main reels 2, 3, and 4, the position of the symbol that will eventually become the stop control position when the player performs a stop operation at a certain symbol position ranges from the symbol position when the stop button is pressed to 3 frames. It is. In other words, the maximum number of sliding frames including the symbol position when the stop button is pressed is 3 frames.

  Next, the internal lottery table determination table of the main control board 61 will be described with reference to FIG.

  The internal lottery table determination table is a table for determining an internal lottery table, which will be described later, according to the gaming state. That is, the internal lottery table for the general gaming state is determined in the general gaming state, the internal lottery table for the RT gaming state is determined, and the internal lottery table for the RB gaming state is determined in the RB gaming state. In addition, regardless of the general gaming state or the RT gaming state, when the value of the carryover combination storage area described later is 1 and there is a carryover combination, the number of lotteries described later is determined as 23, and the carryover combination storage area value is 0. When there is no winning combination, the number of lotteries is determined to be 20. Further, in the RB gaming state, the number of lotteries is determined to be 4 regardless of whether there is a carryover combination.

  Next, the internal lottery table of the main control board 61 will be described with reference to FIGS.

  In the internal lottery table, lottery values and data pointers assigned for each winning number are defined. Two types of data pointers are defined: a small role / replay type and a bonus type.

  In the internal lottery table, the same number as the number of lotteries determined based on the internal lottery table determination table is selected first. Then, the lottery value corresponding to the current winning number is subtracted from the random number value extracted from the numerical range of “0 to 65535” (the denominator 65536). Select the data pointer for the small role / replay and the bonus. If there is no digit, “1” is added to the current winning number, and the lottery value corresponding to the winning number after the addition is further subtracted from the subtracted value. For example, the data pointer for the small role / replay and bonus corresponding to the winning number is selected. If no digit is set, “1” is added to the current winning number. Thereafter, the same processing is repeated until a digit is performed or a subtraction for the number of lotteries described later is performed. If there is no digit even if the winning number is lost, it will be lost. Thus, the internal lottery table is a table for performing lottery for determining the data pointers for the small role / replay and the bonus. The data pointers for the small combination / replay and bonus are data for specifying the winning request flag by the internal winning combination determination table described later, and the winning request flag is data for specifying the internal winning combination. .

  FIG. 6 shows a general gaming state internal lottery table used in the general gaming state. FIG. 6 is an internal lottery table when the aforementioned setting value is 1, and the number of medals inserted in the general gaming state is 3. In the internal game state internal lottery table, in addition to the small role and replay, BB (big bonus) 1, BB2, MB (middle bonus) are also lottery.

  FIG. 7 shows an internal lottery table for the RB gaming state used in the RB (regular bonus) gaming state. FIG. 7 is an internal lottery table common to all setting values for the above-described setting values, and the number of inserted medals is 2 in the RB gaming state. In the internal lottery table for the RB gaming state, as shown in a small combination / replay internal winning combination determination table described later, the small combination of the small combination / replay data pointers 1 to 4 is won.

  FIG. 8 shows an internal lottery table for during replay time (hereinafter abbreviated as “RT”) operation. This is an internal lottery table used during RT operation. In FIG. 8, the winning numbers 1 to 16 are the same as the internal lottery table for the general gaming state and are not shown. FIG. 8 is an internal lottery table common to all set values for the above set values, and the number of inserted medals in RT is 3. In the internal lottery table for the general gaming state, the lottery value of the winning number 17 is defined as “8000”, whereas in the RT lottery table for RT operation, the lottery value of the winning number 17 is considerably larger than “40000”. It is stipulated in. That is, in the internal lottery table for RT operation, the winning probability of the small role / replay data pointer 5 of the winning number 17 (in the case of internal winning for replay described later) is larger than that of the internal lottery table for general gaming state. The structure is quite high. Therefore, during RT operation, the replay winning probability related to re-game operation is very high, so it is possible to reduce the consumption of medals compared to the case where the same number of unit games are performed in the general game state. It becomes.

  Next, the internal winning combination determination table of the main control board 61 will be described with reference to FIGS.

  As the internal winning combination determination table, a small winning combination / replay internal winning combination determination table shown in FIG. 9 and a bonus internal winning combination determination table shown in FIG. 10 are prepared. In these internal winning combination determination tables, the above-described data pointers for small roles / replays and bonuses are associated with the data of the hit request flag. The winning request flag is an identifier for specifying an internal winning combination.

  In the small winning combination / replay winning symbol determination table, for example, when the small winning combination / replay data pointer is “1”, the corner cherry becomes the internal winning combination, and the small winning combination / replay data pointer is “5”. The replay related to the re-game operation is an internal winning combination. When the small combination / replay data pointer is “0”, it is “lost” without any internal winning of any combination.

  In the bonus internal winning combination determination table, two types of BBs “BB1” and “BB2” corresponding to the bonus data pointers “3” and “2”, respectively, and the bonus data pointer “1” are set. Correspondingly, MBs are respectively defined. The bonus data pointer “0” is “losing”, and no bonus is won internally.

  Next, the symbol combination table of the main control board 61 will be described with reference to FIG.

  In the symbol combination table, a symbol combination relating to the provision of a privilege, a display combination corresponding to the combination, a storage area type, and a payout number of medals are defined. The display combination is data for identifying the type of combination of symbols displayed in the symbol display area where the symbols of the main reels 2, 3, and 4 are displayed.

  When a cherry is displayed on the left reel 2, a cherry is displayed on the middle reel 3, and a cherry is displayed on the right reel 4, the display combination is determined to be a corner cherry. Similarly, the payout number of medals corresponding to the corner cherry is 15 when the number of inserted medals is 2, and 1 when the number is 3. When a cherry is displayed on the left reel 2, a cherry is displayed on the middle reel 3, and a cherry is displayed on the right reel 4, the display combination is determined to be a middle cherry. The number of medals corresponding to the medium cherry is 15 when the number of inserted medals is 2, and 2 when the number is 3. The reel display window 39 displays symbols on the upper, middle, and lower tiers of the main reels 2, 3, and 4. The difference between the displayed symbols of the corner cherry and the middle cherry is the upper or lower portion of the symbol display area of the left reel 2. There is a difference in the display position of the cherry symbol, such as whether the cherry is displayed on the left or whether the cherry is displayed in the middle of the symbol display area of the left reel 2. Similarly, in the symbol combination table, a symbol combination related to the provision of a privilege, a display combination, a storage area type, and a payout number corresponding thereto are defined. For example, when “watermelon-watermelon-watermelon” is sequentially displayed along the effective line, the small watermelon is determined as the display combination. In FIG. 11, “−” is displayed as the number of medals paid out, which means that such a number of medals paid out cannot appear.

  When winning a replay, the replay is performed in the next game. In other words, the same number of medals as the number inserted in the game determined as the display combination are automatically inserted in the next game without being based on the player's insertion operation. Thereby, the player can play the next game without consuming medals.

  When “red 7-red 7-red 7” is sequentially displayed along the effective line in the symbol display area where the symbols of the main reels 2, 3, 4 are displayed, the display combination is determined as BB1. When BB1 is determined, the operation of the bonus game of BB1 is started. Similarly, when “blue 7-blue 7-blue 7” is sequentially displayed along the effective line in the symbol display area where the symbols of the main reels 2, 3, and 4 are displayed, the display combination is determined as BB2. . When BB2 is determined, the operation of the bonus game of BB2 is started. Similarly, when “red 7-red 7-blue 7” is sequentially displayed along the effective line in the symbol display area where the symbols of the main reels 2, 3 and 4 are displayed, the display combination is determined to be MB. . When the MB is determined, the operation of the MB bonus game is started.

  If the symbol combination displayed in the symbol display area of the main reels 2, 3, and 4 does not correspond to any of the symbol combinations defined in the symbol combination table, the display combination is determined to be lost. The

  Next, the bonus operation time table will be described with reference to FIG.

  In the bonus operation time table, data stored in a predetermined area of the control RAM 66 at the start of operation of the bonus game is defined. When the RB is operated, an RB operating flag in an operating flag storage area of the control RAM 66 described later is turned on, 12 is stored in the game possible number counter, and 8 is stored in the winning possible number counter. The game possible number counter is data for counting the number of unit games performed during the RB operation. The winning possible number counter is data for counting the number of times that a winning is determined during the RB operation (for example, a display combination related to a medal payout is determined). When BB1 or BB2 (both are simply referred to as “BB”, the same applies hereinafter) is activated, a BB operating flag in an operating flag storage area of the control RAM 66, which will be described later, is turned on, and 345 is displayed in the bonus end number counter. Stored. The bonus end number counter is a counter for managing the total number of medals paid out during the operation of the BB.

  Next, the configuration of the internal winning combination storing area of the control RAM 66 of the main control board 61 will be described with reference to FIG.

  The internal winning combination storing area is divided into an internal winning combination storing area 1 and an internal winning combination storing area 2 shown in FIG. 13, and the internal winning combination storing area 1 and the internal winning combination storing area 2 are respectively determined as the internal winning combination determining area described above. It corresponds to the data of the hit request flag of the table. When the internal winning combination is determined, data indicating the internal winning combination is stored in the internal winning combination storing area.

  The control RAM 66 of the main control board 61 also stores a display combination storage area for storing display combination data. The structure of the display combination storage area is the same as the internal winning combination storage area shown in FIG. 13, and is divided into a display combination storage area 1 and a display combination storage area 2.

  Next, the structure of the carryover combination storage area of the control RAM 66 of the main control board 61 will be described with reference to FIG.

  When the internal winning combination relating to the operation of the bonus game is determined by the internal winning combination determining table, an identifier (that is, a flag) indicating the internal winning combination is stored in the carryover combination storing area. Specifically, bit 5, bit 6, and bit 7 correspond to MB, BB1, and BB2, respectively. The identifier stored in the carryover combination storage area is cleared when the bonus game is started. In other words, when an internal winning combination related to the operation of the bonus game is determined, the identifier is stored until the operation of the bonus game is started (so-called “carryover”). The stored identifier is called “carryover combination”). While the identifier is stored in the carryover combination storage area, the stored identifier is determined as the internal winning combination regardless of the extracted random value. In addition, since the carryover combination is determined based on the internal winning combination, it can be said to be a subordinate concept of the internal winning combination.

  Next, the configuration of the operating flag storage area of the control RAM 66 of the main control board 61 will be described with reference to FIG.

  In the in-operation flag storage area, an identifier indicating the type is stored depending on whether the current operation is BB, RB, RT, or the like. Specifically, bits 0, 4, 5, 6, and 7 correspond to the RT operating flag, MB operating flag, CB (challenge bonus) operating flag, RB operating flag, and BB operating flag, respectively. doing.

[Control operation of main control board]
Next, control performed by the main CPU 64 of the main control board 61 will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG.

  First, a main process performed by the main CPU 64 of the main control board 61 will be described with reference to FIGS. The main CPU 64 turns on the power and applies a voltage to the reset terminal to generate a reset interrupt, and sequentially performs the reset interrupt processing stored in the program ROM 65 based on the occurrence of the reset interrupt. It is configured as follows.

  When the power is turned on, first, the main CPU 64 performs an initialization process (step S1). In this process, a process of restoring the register data and execution address stored in the control RAM 66 when the power is shut off is performed. In this initialization process, the input of the setting switch 56S is checked, and if it is determined that the setting switch 56S is on, the setting value is changed. Specifically, any one of the set values “1” to “6” is stored in the set value storage area of the control RAM 66 based on the human power of the reset switch 55S and the start switch 33S.

  Next, the main CPU 64 determines whether or not the variable lock control flag is on (step S2). The variable lock control flag is a flag for prohibiting the start of the next game even if the player operates the start switch 33S. And the process after step S3 is performed on condition that the fluctuation lock control flag is OFF.

  First, the main CPU 64 clears the designated storage area in the control RAM 66 (step S3). In this process, data stored in various storage areas of the control RAM 66 is cleared. Next, the main CPU 64 performs a bonus operation monitoring process described later (step S4). In this process, a process for starting the operation of a necessary bonus game is performed. Next, the main CPU 64 performs medal acceptance / start check processing (step S5). In this process, the insertion number counter and the like are updated based on the input check of the insertion medal sensor 9S and the input of the start switch 33S is checked. Next, the main CPU 64 extracts a random number value and stores it in the random value storage area (step S6). In this process, random number values are extracted by the random number generator 69 and the sampling circuit 70 and stored in the random number storage area of the control RAM 66.

  Next, the main CPU 64 performs an internal lottery process described later (step S7). In this process, an internal winning combination is determined by lottery. Next, the main CPU 64 sets a start command in the communication data storage area in the control RAM 66 (step S8). The start command includes data such as an internal winning combination and a gaming state.

  Next, the main CPU 64 sets a reel rotation start command for notifying the start of rotation of the main reels 2, 3 and 4 (step S9), and requests the rotation start of all reels (step S10). When the start of rotation of all reels is requested, processing for starting rotation of the main reels 2, 3 and 4 is performed in an interrupt process described later. Next, the main CPU 64 performs a reel stop control process described later (step S11). In this process, a process for stopping the rotation of all the main reels 2, 3, 4 is performed.

  Next, the main CPU 64 refers to the symbol combination table (FIG. 11), and performs a process of determining a display combination and the like based on a symbol combination displayed along a predetermined effective line (step S12). In this process, a combination of symbols specified in the symbol combination table and a symbol combination displayed in the symbol display area of the main reels 2, 3 and 4 (a combination of three symbols arranged along one of the effective lines) ) Is compared with each other to determine whether or not they match. When they match, the corresponding display combination and medal payout number are determined, and each display combination storage area and the payout number counter are updated. If they do not match, the data stored in each display combination storage area is “0”, and the display combination is lost. In this way, when the rotation of all the reels is stopped by the stop control, whether or not a winning is determined is determined based on the combination of symbols displayed in the symbol display area of the main reels 2, 3 and 4. A privilege is given to the person.

  Next, the main CPU 64 sets a display command in the communication data storage area in the control RAM 66 (step S13). The display command includes data such as the determined display combination that is transmitted when all the main reels 2, 3, and 4 are stopped.

  Next, the main CPU 64 determines whether or not the above-described variable lock control flag is on (step S14). When the variable lock control flag is on, 15000 is set in the lock timer (step S15). The lock timer is prepared in the control RAM 66 and is a timer for counting the time for maintaining the variable lock control flag in the ON state. This lock timer is set when the main reels 2, 3 and 4 are all stopped and the display command is set.

  Next, the main CPU 64 performs medal payout processing (step S16). In this process, the hopper 72 is controlled and the credit counter is updated based on the payout number counter. Next, the main CPU 64 updates the bonus end number counter based on the payout number (step S17). In this process, on the condition that the bonus end number counter is 1 or more, a value corresponding to the payout number is subtracted from the counter.

  Next, the main CPU 64 determines whether or not the BB or MB operating flag is on (step S18). When determining that the BB or MB operating flag is on, the main CPU 64 performs a bonus end check process described later (step S19). In this process, a process for ending the operation of the bonus game is performed based on determination of whether or not various counters stored in the control RAM 66 are updated to 0 when the bonus game is operated. When the BB and MB operating flag is off, the main CPU 64 performs RT game number control processing described later (step S20). In this process, the number of RT games is managed. Then, after step S19 or S20, a bonus operation check process described later is performed (step S21). In this process, a process for starting the operation of the bonus is performed based on the determined type of display combination. And after the above process, it returns to step S2.

  Next, the bonus operation monitoring process (step S4) will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, the main CPU 64 determines whether or not the BB operating flag is ON and the BB is operating (step S41). When the BB operating flag is ON, the RB operating flag is ON and the RB operating flag is ON. Whether or not is operating is determined (step S42). When the RB operating flag is off and the RB is not operating, the RB operating process is performed based on the bonus operating table (FIG. 13) (step S43). In the RB operation processing, processing such as turning on the RB operation flag is performed.

  If the BB operating flag is off and the BB is not operating (N in step S41), it is determined whether the MB operating flag is on and the MB is operating (step S44). If the MB operating flag is on and the MB is operating, the CB operating flag is turned on (step S45). Thus, CB operates during MB.

  Next, an internal lottery process (step S7) will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, the main CPU 64 determines the type of the lottery table and the number of lotteries based on the current gaming state based on the aforementioned internal lottery table determination table (FIG. 5) (step S61). And the process which changes the internal lottery table to be used into the internal lottery table determined at step S61 is performed (step S62). Next, the main CPU 64 sets the extracted random number value (stored in step S6) stored in the random value storage area as a determination random number value, and sets 1 as the initial value of the winning number (step S63). .

  Then, with reference to the internal lottery table (FIG. 6, FIG. 7 or FIG. 8), a lottery value based on the winning number is acquired (step S64). Then, the lottery value is subtracted from the determination random number value, and it is determined whether or not a digit is obtained by this subtraction (step S65). If a digit has been entered, the winning number for which the digit has been obtained is acquired as a winning number, and the process proceeds to step S69.

  If no digit is entered, “1” is added to the above-described winning number, and “1” is subtracted from the number of lotteries described above (step S66), thereby determining whether or not the number of lotteries has become zero. (Step S67). If the number of lotteries is not 0, the process returns to step S64, and the lottery value is again subtracted from the determination random number value, and it is determined whether or not a digit has been obtained by this subtraction (step S65). When it becomes 0, 0 is acquired as the winning number.

  These processes are repeated until a digit is performed (Y in Step S65) or until the number of lotteries becomes 0 (Y in Step S67). In this case, in the second and subsequent processes, the lottery value is subtracted from the random number data by further subtracting the lottery value from the remainder of the previous lottery value subtraction result. Therefore, the original random number data becomes smaller each time the subtraction is repeated. Further, each time the above process is repeated, the number of lotteries decreases by one.

  When the winning number is acquired as described above, the data pointers for the small role / replay and bonus corresponding to the acquired winning number are acquired (steps S69 and S68). Then, the winning request flag is acquired based on the acquired data pointer for the small combination / replay with reference to the internal winning combination determination table for small combination / replay (FIG. 9) (step S70). Next, the winning request flag is stored in the internal winning combination storing area 1 (FIG. 13) (step S71).

  Next, it is determined whether the value of the carryover combination storage area (FIG. 14) is 0, that is, whether there is no carryover combination (step S72). If the value of the carryover combination storage area is 0 and there is no carryover combination, it is determined whether or not the bonus data pointer acquired in step S64 is 0 (step S73). When the bonus data pointer is 1 or more and BB or MB is internally won (N in step S73), the bonus internal pointer determining table (FIG. 10) is referred to and the bonus data pointer is determined based on the bonus data pointer. A request flag is acquired, and the acquired hit request flag is stored in the carryover combination storage area (step S74). That is, the address of the carryover combination storage area is set and stored. After the above processing, the logical sum of the carryover combination storing area and the internal winning combination storing area 2 is stored in the internal winning combination storing area 2 (step S75).

  Next, it is determined whether the CB operating flag is on and the CB is operating (step S76). When the CB operating flag is ON and CB is operating, bits 1 to 3 of the internal winning combination storing area 1 are set ON (step S79). As a result, when the CB is in operation, the corner cherries, medium cherries, bells, and watermelons can be awarded at any time.

  In other words, CB is a bonus game that is executed only for one game, and only the left reel 2 of the three main reels is controlled to stop within the range of 0 to 1 frame from the stop start position, almost as the player is aiming for. Stop control can be performed. Then, in the CB, each bit of the corner cherry, middle cherry, bell, and watermelon is turned on by turning on the bit of the internal winning combination storing area 1 described later for each of the corner cherry, middle cherry, bell, and watermelon small roles. Since the winning combination is won internally, the player can easily win these small combinations by pushing the left reel 2.

  Next, the reel stop control process (step S11) will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, the main CPU 64 determines whether or not a valid stop button has been pressed (step S81). When a valid stop button is pressed, the pressing operation of the corresponding stop button 2, 3 or 4 is invalidated (step S82). Then, 4 is set as the number of checks (step S83). Thereafter, the symbol position having the highest priority is searched for within the range of the number of checks from the symbol position corresponding to the symbol counter (step S84). Then, the number of sliding frames is determined based on the search result (step S85).

  Next, the main CPU 64 determines whether or not the pressing operation of the stop button is due to the first stop (step S86). If it is due to the first stop, it is determined whether or not the number of sliding frames is 3, that is, the maximum number of sliding frames (step S87). When the number of sliding symbols is 3, which is the maximum number of sliding symbols, it is determined whether bit 6 or 7 in the carryover combination storage area (FIG. 14) is 1, that is, whether BB is established (step S88). When bit 6 or 7 of the carryover combination storage area is 0 and BB is not established, bit 1 of the internal winning combination storage area 1 (FIG. 13) is 0, that is, the small cherry medium cherry is established. It is determined whether or not there is (step S89). When BB is established (Y in step S88), or when the medium cherry is established (Y in step S89), the above-described variable lock control flag is turned on (step S90). Thus, for the first stopped reel, when the number of sliding frames is 3, which is the maximum number of sliding frames, and the BB is established or the medium cherry is established, the variable lock The player does not start the next game even if the player operates the start switch 33S for a predetermined time (less than 17 seconds) until the control flag is turned on and the lock timer (see steps S14 and S15) becomes 0. (Y in step S2). In this case, the middle cherry is a small part that can be missed, and when it is missed, the losing eyes are displayed on the main reels 2 to 4, so even if the losing eyes are displayed, the variable lock control flag is turned on (step S90), the lock timer is set (step S15).

  Next, the main CPU 64 proceeds to stop control position waiting (step S91). For example, if the determined number of sliding symbols is “2” and the stop start position is “18”, the stop control position is determined to be “1”. When the stop control position is determined, a process for stopping the rotation of the reel is performed based on the stop control position in an interrupt process described later. It should be noted that the number of sliding symbols and the stop control position are in an equivalent relationship because when one is determined, the other is also determined. Then, a reel stop command for notifying that the reel has been stopped is set (step S92), and it is determined whether there is a stop button for which the pressing operation is effective (step S93). If there is a stop button for which the pressing operation is valid, the process returns to step S81.

  Next, the bonus end check process (step S19) will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, the main CPU 64 determines whether or not the RB operating flag is on and the RB is operating (step S101). If the RB operating flag is off, it is determined whether or not the bonus end number counter is 0 (step S102). When the bonus end number counter is 0, it means that the maximum number of acquired medals as a BB end condition has been reached, and therefore processing for BB / MB end to end BB is performed (step S105). Specifically, the BB operating flag in the aforementioned operating flag storage area of the control RAM 66 is turned off, and the bonus end number counter is cleared.

  Also, when the RB operating flag is on and the RB is operating, or when the bonus end number counter is 1 or more, the BB is operating or the MB is operating but the MB end condition This is a case where the maximum number of acquired medals has not been reached. In this case, the main CPU 64 determines whether or not a winning is achieved (step S103). When determining that a winning is achieved, the main CPU 64 determines whether or not the bonus end number counter is 0 (step S104). If the bonus end number counter is 0, BB / MB end processing is performed to end BB or MB (step S105). Specifically, the BB operating flag or the like in the aforementioned operating flag storage area of the control RAM 66 is turned off, and the winning possible number counter and the possible gaming number counter are cleared. Then, it is determined whether or not the BB has ended (step S106). If the BB has ended, an RT operating flag indicating that the RT is operating is set to ON (step S107). Also, 100 is set to the value of the RT game number counter for managing the number of RT games (step S108). That is, RT starts at the end of the BB bonus game and continues for 100 games. Since the processing at the end of BB / MB (step S105) is performed, a bonus end command for notifying the end of the bonus game is set in the communication data storage area in the control RAM 66 (step S109).

  On the other hand, if the bonus end number counter is not 0 (N in step S104), the winning possible number counter is decremented by 1 (step S110). Then, it is determined whether or not the winning possible number counter is 0 (step S111). When the winning possible number counter is 0, processing at the end of RB is performed (step S114), and RB is ended.

  If the winning count counter is not 0 (N in step S111), or if no winning is achieved (N in step S103), the game possible count counter is decremented by 1 (step S112), and the possible winning count is determined. If the counter is 0 (Y in step S113), RB end time processing is performed (step S114), and RB is ended.

  Next, the RT game number control process (step S20) will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, the main CPU 64 determines whether or not the RT operating flag is on and the RT is operating (step S131). The RT in-operation flag is on, and when RT is in operation, 1 is subtracted from the value of the RT game number management counter that is a counter for managing the number of RT games (step S132). This is because RT is digested by one game. Then, it is determined whether or not the value of the RT game number counter has become 0 (step S133). As described above, since RT continues in principle for 100 games (step S108), when RT is digested to 100 games and the value of the RT game number counter reaches 0, RT operation indicating that RT is operating. The middle flag is set to OFF (step S134), and RT is terminated.

  Next, the bonus operation check process (step S21) will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, the main CPU 64 determines whether or not the display combination is MB (step S151). When determining that the display combination is MB, the main CPU 64 performs MB operation processing based on the bonus operation table (FIG. 12) (step S152).

  When the display combination is not MB, the main CPU 64 determines whether or not the display combination is BB (step S153). When the main CPU 64 determines that the display combination is BB, the main CPU 64 performs BB operation processing based on the bonus operation table (FIG. 12) (step S154). Further, since the BB operates, the value of the carryover combination storage area is cleared (step S155). Further, the RT operating flag is set to OFF (step S156). In other words, BB winning is a condition for ending RT. In addition, a bonus start command for notifying the start of the bonus game is set in the communication data storage area in the control RAM 66 (step S157).

  On the other hand, if the display combination is not BB, it is determined whether or not the display combination is replay (step S158). If the display combination is replay, the value of the inserted number counter is copied to the automatic insertion counter (step S158). S159). The insertion number counter is a counter that manages the number of medals inserted, and the automatic insertion counter is a counter that manages the number of medals automatically inserted. Thereby, in the next game, it is possible to play a game without inserting medals.

  Next, with reference to FIG. 24, an interrupt process with a period of 1.1173 ms, which is performed under the control of the main CPU 64 of the main control board 61, will be described.

  First, the main CPU 64 saves the register (step S181). Next, the main CPU 64 performs input port check processing (step S182). Specifically, the main CPU 64 checks the input of signals from each switch. Next, the main CPU 64 performs an input state command setting process (step S183). The input state command is a command for notifying the sub control board 62 of the input state of the start lever 33 and the stop buttons 34, 35, and 36. Here, the input of the start lever 33 and the stop buttons 34, 35, and 36 is checked. Line and set the input status command. Next, the main CPU 64 performs communication data transmission processing (step S184). Specifically, as described above, various commands set in the communication data storage area in the control RAM 66 are transmitted to the sub-control board 62 by this processing.

  Next, the main CPU 64 performs a reel control process (step S185). Specifically, if a reel rotation start request is made, the main reels 2, 3, and 4 are started to rotate at a constant speed. If the stop control position is determined, the rotation is decelerated and stopped after the symbol counter of the reel is updated to the same value as the stop control position. For example, if the symbol counter is “0” and the stop control position is “4”, the reel rotation is stopped when the symbol counter is updated to “4”.

  Next, the main CPU 64 determines whether or not the value of the lock timer set in step S15 is 0 (step S186). When the value of the lock timer is not 0, the lock timer is updated (step S187). That is, 1 is subtracted from the value of the lock timer. Then, it is determined whether or not the value of the lock timer has become 0 (step S188), and when the value of the lock timer has become 0, the variable lock control flag is turned off (step S189). As a result, the change lock control flag is turned off in less than 17 seconds after being set (step S15), and thereafter (after N in step S2), the next game can be started by operating the start lever 33.

  Next, the main CPU 64 performs lamp / 7 SEG drive processing (step S190). Specifically, the main CPU 64 performs processing such as lighting of the bet lamps 9a, 9b, and 9c based on the insertion number counter and displaying the number of payouts on the information display unit 18. Next, the main CPU 64 performs timer management processing (step S191) and restores the register (step S192). When this process ends, the interrupt process with a cycle of 1.1173 ms ends.

[Tables used on the sub control board]
FIG. 25 is an explanatory diagram of the symbol arrangement table of the sub reels 5, 6, 7.

  The symbol arrangement table is stored in the ROM 83. In the symbol arrangement table, when the reel index is detected, the symbol located in the middle stage of each symbol display area is set as symbol position “0”, and the sub reels 5, 6, 4 are used as in the case of the main reels 2, 3, 4. 7 (left reel 5, middle reel 6, right reel 7) The symbol positions “0” to “20” corresponding to the symbol counter and the symbol type corresponding to each symbol position are defined. Each symbol type is represented by 1-byte data. Therefore, based on the symbol arrangement table and the symbol counter, a symbol located in the middle of the symbol display area of each reel, a symbol adjacent to the symbol, and the like can be specified. The symbols on the sub reels 5, 6, and 7 are referred to as decorative symbols. The combination of “red 7-red 7-red 7” and “blue 7-blue 7-blue 7” constitutes a specific combination of symbols according to the present invention, and is composed of a decorative pattern of a predetermined character. The “character-character-character” symbol combination constitutes a special symbol combination of the present invention.

  FIG. 26 is a comparison table between the special symbols of the main reels 2, 3, 4 and the decorative symbols of the sub reels 5, 6, 7, and the data is stored in the ROM 83. That is, as will be described later, information on what symbol position the sub reels 5, 6 and 7 are stopped at when the variable display is controlled to stop is transmitted from the main control board 61 to the sub control board 62 by the reel stop command. The The stop symbol positions of the sub reels 5, 6, and 7 are determined by the stop symbol positions of the main reels 2, 3, and 4. FIG. 25 shows the correspondence between the two, in which the combination of symbols on the main reels 2, 3, 4 and the combination of symbols on the sub reels 5, 6, 7 correspond one-to-one. For example, a cherry symbol is displayed on the left reel 2, a red watermelon symbol is displayed on the middle reel 3, and an ANY symbol (“ANY” indicates that any symbol can be displayed; the same applies hereinafter) is displayed on the left reel 4. Then, a cherry symbol is displayed on the left reel 5, an ANY symbol is displayed on the middle reel 6, and an ANY symbol is displayed on the left reel 4. Therefore, by referring to the comparison table of FIG. 26 according to the combination of the stop symbols of the main reels 2, 3 and 4 notified by the command from the main control board 61 as described later, the sub reels 5, 6 and 7 A combination of stop symbols can be determined. In addition, what is illustrated in FIG. 26 is only a part of the correspondence relationship between the special symbol and the decorative symbol.

[About commands]
Next, commands received by the sub control board 62 from the main control board 61 will be described.

  FIG. 27 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the configuration of this transmission command. The command 301 includes a command type 302 described later, a parameter 303 described later, a gaming state 304 described later, and a BCC 305. The BCC 305 is data for error check of the command 301.

  In the main control board 61, when an event for transmitting a command occurs, the command is set in the communication data storage area of the control RAM 66 (for example, step S183 described above). The communication data storage area can store up to seven commands. In this manner, the command set in the communication data storage area is transmitted to the sub-control board 62 by interrupt processing.

  FIG. 28 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the command type 302. In FIG. 28, 01H to 0BH is the command type 302 of each command, and the command contents and the transmission timing of each command type 302 are illustrated. 01H is an initialization command and is transmitted when the setting is changed. 02H is a demonstration display command, which is transmitted when 30 seconds have elapsed from the end of the game. 03H is a medal insertion command, which is transmitted when a medal is inserted. 04H is a start command, which is transmitted when the result of the internal lottery after detecting the operation of the start lever 33 is acquired. 05H is a reel rotation start command, and is transmitted when the rotation of the main reels 2 to 4 is disclosed. 06H is a reel stop command, which is transmitted when the main reels 2 to 4 are stopped. 07H is a display command, which is transmitted when all the main reels 2 to 4 are stopped and a display combination result is obtained. 08H is a payout end command, which is transmitted at the end of payout of medals. 09H is a bonus end command, which is transmitted when winning a BB. 0AH is a bonus start command and is transmitted when BB becomes a display combination. 0BH is an input state command, and is transmitted when the start lever 33 and stop buttons 34, 35, and 36 are input.

  FIG. 29 is an explanatory diagram of the gaming state 304. The gaming state 304 is 1-byte data, and indicates the current gaming state depending on which bit is set. For example, when bit 7 is set, it indicates that the RB is operating, and when bit 6 is set, it indicates that the BB is operating. Bit4 is not used.

  30 to 32 are explanatory diagrams of the parameter 303. FIG. FIG. 30 is an example of an input state command, FIG. 31 is an example of a reel stop command, and FIG. 30 is an example of a start command.

  The input state command parameter 303 is composed of 1-byte parameter 1, and the start lever 33, stop buttons 34, 35 and 36 (left stop button 34, middle stop button 35, right stop button 36) depending on which bit is set. ) Is notified to the sub-control board 62 which is input by the player's operation. For example, if bit 3 is on, it indicates that the right stop button 36 has been input.

  The reel stop command parameter 303 includes 1-byte parameters 1-2. The parameter 1 notifies the sub-control board 62 which of the main reels 2 to 4 has stopped, and the data is stored in bit0 and bit1. The parameter 2 indicates whether the stopped symbol position of the stopped main reel 2, 3 or 4 is “0” to “18” and the number of sliding symbols is 0 to 3 The information is notified to the sub-control board 62. The former is stored in bit3 to bit7, and the latter is stored in bit0 to bit2.

  The start command parameter 303 includes 1-byte parameters 1 to 4 each. Parameters 3 and 4 are used to notify the sub-control board 62 which role has been won internally depending on which bit is set. For example, if bit0 is standing, the corner cherry is won internally. Parameter 2 notifies the sub-control board 62 of how many games (RT end games) from the start to the end of RT are in the range of 0 to 100 games. Parameter 1 notifies the sub-control board 62 whether or not it is in RT (RT gaming state). For example, if bit 0 is set, it indicates that RT is in progress.

[Control operation of sub-control circuit]
Next, the control performed by the sub control board 62 will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG.

  In the processing described below, a multi-thread, multi-task operating system is adopted as an OS (operating system) that executes processing. That is, a certain task group and another task group execute processing while preemption (preemption) of the execution right.

  FIG. 33 is a flowchart for explaining processing executed when the gaming machine 1 is turned on.

  When the gaming machine 1 is powered on, the sub CPU 82 performs an initialization process (step S301). Specifically, an error check of the control RAM 84, a task system initialization, and the like are performed. Next, the sub CPU 82 performs ramp control task activation (step S302) described later, sound control task activation (step S303) described later, and sub reel control task activation (step S304) described later. These are groups of tasks that perform interrupt processing every time a certain time elapses due to a timer. Next, the sub CPU 82 activates a main board communication task described later (step S305). This is a group of tasks that perform interrupt processing when a command is received from the main control board 61.

  The lamp control task started in step S302 will be described with reference to the flowchart in FIG.

  First, the sub CPU 82 performs predetermined initialization processing on lamp-related data such as the reel back lamps 47a to 47c and the reel back lamps 48a to 48c (step S321). Next, the sub CPU 82 waits for an event of 2 ms (step S322). That is, other tasks are executed until a 2 ms interrupt event message is received. Then, after waiting for an event of 2 ms, it is determined whether or not the special effect timer is 0 (step S323). The special effect timer is a timer that is constructed in a predetermined area of the control RAM 84 and manages a period for executing the special effect described later. When the special effect timer is not 0, that is, when the special effect is to be executed, the special effect timer is updated (step S324). That is, the value of the special effect timer is subtracted by 1. Then, it is determined whether or not the special effect timer has reached 0 (step S325). When it becomes 0, the special effect control flag is turned off because the period for executing the special effect has ended (step S326). The special effect control flag is a flag indicating that the special effect is being executed. The special effect control flag corresponds to the variable lock control flag on the main control board 61, and the period during which the special effect control flag is on substantially matches the period during which the variable lock control flag is on.

  Next, the sub CPU 82 executes a sound control task to be described later (step S327). That is, the process jumps from step S327 to the sound control task. Next, when returning to the lamp control task after executing the sound control task, the lamp control task is restarted from the process of retrieving the lamp data from the lamp storage area (step S328). The lamp data is effect data for lighting and driving lamps such as the reel back lamps 47 a to 47 c and the reel back lamps 48 a to 48 c as effects, and the lamp storage area exists in the ROM 83. Then, the extracted lamp data is analyzed (step S329), and a lamp lighting control process for lighting each lamp for production is performed (step S330).

  The sound control task activated in step S303 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  First, the sub CPU 82 performs predetermined initialization processing on sound-related data output from the speakers 54, 96, and 96 (step S351). Next, the sub CPU 82 executes a sub reel control task described later (step S352). That is, the process jumps from step S352 to the sub reel control task. Next, when returning to the sound control task after executing the sub-reel control task, the sound control task is restarted from the process of retrieving the sound data from the lamp storage area (step S353). The sound data is effect data for outputting sound from the speakers 54, 96, and 96, and a sound storage area exists in the ROM 83 (actual sound data exists in the sound source IC 91). Then, the extracted sound data is analyzed (step S354), and sound output control processing for outputting sound from the speakers 54, 96, 96 is performed (step S355).

  The sub reel control task activated in step S304 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  First, the sub CPU 82 performs a predetermined initialization process on data related to the sub reels 5 to 7 (step S371). Next, the sub CPU 82 executes the lamp control task described above (step S372). That is, the process jumps from step S372 to the lamp control task. Next, when returning to the sub-reel control task after executing the ramp control task, the sub-reel control task is restarted from the process of retrieving the effect data of the sub-reel from the effect reel storage area (step S373). The effect data for the sub reels is effect data for controlling the rotation and stop of the sub reels 5 to 7, and the effect reel storage area exists in the ROM 83. Then, the effect data of the extracted sub reels is analyzed (step S374), and a sub reel control process for rotating the sub reels 5 to 7 for the effect is performed (step S375).

  With reference to the flowchart of FIG. 37, the main board | substrate communication task started by step S305 is demonstrated.

  The sub CPU 82 first initializes a transmission message queue that receives a command transmitted from the main control board 61 (step S391). Then, it is checked whether there is a command received in the transmission message queue (step S392), and it is determined whether a command different from the previous command is received (step S393). If a command different from the previous command is received, game information is created from the command (step S394). Specifically, game information is created from the parameters of the command. For example, when the command is a start command, the main flag is determined according to the main flag correspondence table (FIG. 31). If the command is a reel stop command, the main reel 2, 3 or 4 is in the first stop, the second stop, or the third stop, and the stop control position is any position from "0" to "18". Game information about whether or not the number of sliding symbols is. Then, the game information is stored in the game data storage area of the control RAM 84 (step S395), a reception command analysis process described later is performed (step S396), and the process returns to step S392. The received command analysis process is a process for analyzing the received command.

  The received command analysis process (step S396) will be described with reference to the flowchart in FIG.

  First, the sub CPU 82 determines whether or not it is a start command reception (step S411), and when it is a start command reception, performs a start command reception process described later (step S412). If it is not at the time of receiving the start command, it is determined whether or not it is at the time of receiving the reel rotation start command (step S413), and if it is at the time of receiving the reel rotation start command, processing at the time of receiving the reel rotation start command is performed (step S414). . In the reel rotation start command reception process, the sub reel production data used for starting the rotation of the sub reels 5 to 7 is registered in order to start the rotation of the sub reels 5 to 7. If it is not at the time of receiving the reel rotation start command, it is determined whether or not it is at the time of receiving the reel stop command (step S415). S416). In the reel stop command reception process, a special effect control flag is turned on and a special effect is started. When it is not at the time of receiving the reel stop command, it is determined whether or not it is at the time of receiving the display command (step S417).

  When it is not at the time of receiving the display command, it is determined whether or not it is at the time of receiving the bonus start command (step S419), and when it is at the time of receiving the bonus start command, a predetermined bonus start command receiving process is performed (step S420). . If it is not when a bonus start command is received, it is determined whether or not a bonus end command is received (step S421). If a bonus end command is received, predetermined bonus end command reception processing is performed. (Step S422). If it is not a bonus end command reception, it is determined whether or not an input state command is received (step S423). If an input state command is received, an input state command reception process described later is performed (step S423). S424). In the process at the time of receiving the input state command, the control of the fluctuation and stop of the sub reels 5 to 7 in the special effect is performed. If it is not at the time of receiving the input state command, processing corresponding to the other received command is executed (step S425).

  The start command reception process (step S412) will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  First, the sub CPU 82 performs various game number counter update processing (step S441). Here, an effect state game number counter update process or the like is performed. Next, effect number lottery processing is performed (step S442). Here, an effect number for specifying effect data is determined by a predetermined lottery based on the game information of the internal winning combination notified by the start command. Next, the sub CPU 82 performs a sub reel stop mode determination process described later (step S443). Here, the symbol stop table for stopping control of the sub reels 5 to 7 is determined. Thereby, it is determined at which position the sub reels 5 to 7 are stopped. Next, the sub CPU 82 performs sound / backlamp effect data determination processing (step S444). Here, each effect data of sound data and lamp data is determined based on the determined effect number. Next, the sub CPU 82 registers effect data at the time of the start operation by pressing the start lever 33 based on the registered effect number (step S445).

  The sub-reel stop mode determination process (step S443) will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS.

  In this process, it is determined whether the internal winning combination is BB1, BB2, MB, loss, replay, bell, watermelon, horn cherry, or medium cherry (steps S461, S463, S465, S467, S469). , S471, S473, S475, S477), a stop table corresponding to the internal winning combination is determined (steps S462, S464, S466, S468, S470, S472, S474, S476, S478). Here, each stop table is a table in which data for determining the stop positions of the sub reels 5 to 7 is registered in accordance with the internal winning combination. Then, the determined stop table is set (step S479). In addition, the BB1 establishment stop table and the BB2 establishment stop table used when the internal winning combination is BB1 or BB2, the reel display window portion when the combination of symbols of BB1 and BB2 cannot be aligned, respectively. "Red 7-Red 7-Red 7" (in the case of BB1) or "Blue 7-Blue 7-Blue 7" (in the case of BB2) or "Character-character" -Stop control to align the characters' characters.

  The display command reception process (step S418) will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  First, the sub CPU 82 sets effect data (sound data, lamp data, reel effect data) based on the display combination notified by the display command (step S491). Then, it is determined whether or not the special effect control flag is turned on (step S492). If the special effect control flag is on, 8380 is set in the special effect timer (step S493). As described above, since the special effect timer is a down counter that is decremented by 1 every 2 ms, the time until the special effect timer changes from 8380 to 0 is less than 17 seconds, and the variable lock control flag on the main control board 61 is set. It is almost the same as the time to reach zero. The special effect control flag corresponds to the variable lock control flag on the main control board 61, and the period during which the special effect control flag is on substantially matches the period during which the variable lock control flag is on. become. That is, for about 17 seconds after all the main reels 2 to 4 are stopped, the main control board 61 prohibits the start of the next game by turning on the variable lock control flag, and the sub control board 62 performs a special effect described later. Will be executed.

  The reel stop command reception process (step S416) will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  First, the sub CPU 82 determines whether or not the special effect control flag is on (step S501). When the special effect control flag is on, the process proceeds to step S508. As will be described later, since the special effect control flag is turned on when the first stop operation is performed, the special effect control flag is turned on and the process proceeds to step S508. This is when the second stop and the third stop are made.

  When the special effect control flag is OFF (N in Step S501), it is determined whether or not the stop of the first stopped reel of the main reel is notified by the reel stop command (Step S502). If it is determined that the number of sliding symbols notified by the reel stop command is 3, which is the maximum value (step S503). When the number of sliding symbols is 3, it is determined whether the internal winning combination notified by the start command is BB1 or BB2 (step S504), and when the internal winning combination is not BB1 or BB2. Then, it is determined whether or not the internal winning combination is a medium cherry (step S505). If it is determined in step S502 and subsequent steps that the first stop of the main reel and the number of sliding symbols is 3, which is the maximum value, and the internal winning combination is BB1, BB2, or medium cherry, the special effect control flag Is turned on (step S506). When the number of sliding symbols is 3, which is the maximum value, the degree of freedom of the symbols that can be drawn in the main reels 2 to 4 is increased, and accordingly, the sub reels corresponding to the combination of the stop symbols of the main reels 2 to 4 The freedom degree of the symbol which can be displayed in 5-7 also becomes high.

  As described above, the determinations in steps S502 to S505 are the same as the determinations in steps S86 to S89 on the main control board 61, and when the number of sliding frames is 3 which is the maximum value at the first stop of the main reel. This corresponds to the special effect control flag change lock control flag (step S90) in that the winning condition is that the internal winning combination is BB1, BB2, or the middle cherry. Thus, when the special effect control flag is turned on, a specific stop table is determined according to whether the internal winning combination is BB1, BB2, or a medium cherry (step S507). That is, even in these internal winning combinations, each stop table is determined in the sub reel stop mode determination process (FIG. 40) (steps S462, S464, S478), but when the special effect control flag is turned on. Determines a special stop table different from these in order to execute special effects.

  When the special effect control flag is turned on at the first stop of the main reel, and when the second stop and the third stop of the main reel occur when the special effect control flag is turned on (step S506). , Y of S501), the stop control positions of the sub reels 5 to 7 are determined based on the specific stop table determined in step S507 and the stop operation timing detected for the main reel (step S508). Here, although details will be described later, the stop control positions of the sub reels 5 to 7 are determined so that stop control is performed so that a bonus symbol is displayed outside the reel display window 50 (an area where the player cannot see). To do. Specifically, when the internal winning combination is BB1, a combination of symbols of “red 7-red 7-red 7” or “character-character-character”, and when the internal winning combination is BB2, “blue 7-blue 7 -Blue 7 "or" Character-Character-Character "symbol combination.

  When the special effect control flag is off and the main reel is in the second stop or the third stop (N in Step S502), or when the number of sliding symbols is 2 or less (N in Step S503), the internal winning combination is If none of BB1, BB2, or medium cherry is found (N in step S505), the stop table determined in the sub reel stop mode determination process (FIG. 40) and the stop operation timing detected for the main reel are used. Based on this, the stop control positions of the sub reels 5 to 7 are determined (step S509).

  When the stop control positions of the sub reels 5 to 7 are determined as described above (steps S508 and S509), effect data (lamp data, sound data, reel effect data) corresponding to the stop control position is set (step S510). .

  With reference to the flowchart of FIG. 44, the process at the time of receiving an input state command (step S424) will be described.

  First, the sub CPU 82 determines whether or not the special effect timer is 0 (step S521). When the special effect timer is not 0, the special effect is being executed. At this time, it is determined whether or not the input of the start lever 33 has been detected by the notification of the input state command (step S522). As described above, during the special performance, the variable lock control flag is turned on (N in Step S2), and the next game does not start even if the start lever 33 is operated. In this case, when the input of the start lever 33 is detected, it is determined whether or not the internal winning combination is BB1 or BB2 (step S523). If the internal winning combination is BB1 or BB2, bonus notification effect data corresponding to the re-change of the sub reels 5 to 7 is set (step S524). When the internal winning combination is not BB1 or BB2, loss notification effect data corresponding to the re-change of the sub reels 5 to 7 is set (step S525). The bonus notification effect data and the loss notification effect data are all composed of lamp data, sound data, and reel effect data.

  Here, with reference to FIG. 45 to FIG. 48, specific contents of effects by the sub reels 5 to 7 in the special effects will be described.

  In FIGS. 45 to 47 (1) to (7), the display of the decorative symbols on the reel display window 50 in the sub reels 5 to 7 will be described over time in that order. As with the reel display window 39 of the main reels 2 to 4, the reel display window 50 is a game that extends the decorative symbols of the sub reels 5 to 7 to the upper, middle, and lower three levels (range of three decorative symbols). It is an area that is displayed so that it can be viewed by a person, and serves as a display window. A region 401 illustrated in the upper part of the reel display window unit 50 shows a decoration pattern immediately after the decorative pattern displayed on the upper stage of the reel display window unit 50 in the sub reels 5 to 7. Of course, the decorative design of this area 401 is not visible to the player, but is shown for convenience of explanation.

  First, (1) shows a display example of decorative symbols on the sub reels 5 to 7 in a stopped state before the start of one game. When the player operates the start lever 33 in this state, as shown in (2), the variable display of the sub reels 5 to 7 is started (the decorative symbol moves in the direction of the arrow in the figure). This is performed by a reel rotation start command reception process (step S414).

  Next, when the player performs the first stop operation, the second stop operation, and the third stop operation by the stop buttons 34, 35, and 36, the sub reels 5 to 7 are controlled to stop as shown in (3). Will be. When the stop table used for this stop control is the first stop of the main reel 2, 3 or 4 and the number of sliding frames is 3, in the case of a special effect in which the internal winning combination is BB1, BB2 or medium cherry, In step S507, a specific stop table is obtained. In other cases, the stop table is determined by the sub-reel stop mode determination process (FIGS. 40 and 41).

  Here, the example of (3) is a symbol stop when stop control is performed based on the specific stop table in step S507 by a special effect when BB1 is an internal winning combination. FIG. 48 shows the stop positions of the entire sub reels 5 to 7 in this stop state. Even if the internal winning combination is a medium cherry in a small combination, stop control is performed at the same symbol position.

  That is, when the special effect is performed, the main reels 2 to 4 have the maximum number of sliding frames of 3 as described above. When the number of sliding symbols of the main reels 2 to 4 is 3, which is the maximum value, the tolerance of the symbols that can be pulled in is high because the number of sliding symbols is large. And since the combination of the display symbols of the main reels 2 to 4 and the combination of the display symbols of the sub reels 5 to 7 have a corresponding relationship (FIG. 26), the tolerance of the combination of symbols that can be displayed on the sub reels 5 to 7 is high. become. Therefore, the combination of decorative symbols such as “red 7-red 7-red 7” can be easily stopped outside the reel display window 50 in each of the sub reels 5 to 7.

  The reel display window 50 moves upward relative to the sub reels 5 to 7 as indicated by arrows in FIG. 48 (the sub reels 5 to 7 move downward relative to the reel display window 50). To do). In the state of (3), it can be seen that in each sub-reel 5 to 7, the combination of decorative symbols of “red 7-red 7-red 7” is positioned after two symbols from the upper stage of the reel display window 50. . Of course, since the combination of the decoration pattern of “Red 7-Red 7-Red 7” in each of the sub reels 5 to 7 is outside the reel display window 50, the player cannot see in the stop state (3). .

  In this state, since the variable lock control flag is also on, the next game does not start even if the start lever 33 is operated (Y in step S2). Since the special effect timer is not 0 (N in step S521), when the start lever 33 is operated, bonus effect data or loss notification effect data is set according to the internal winning combination (steps S522 to S525). ). In other words, if the internal winning combination is BB1 or BB2, bonus effect data is set, and if it is a small cherry, the loss notification effect data is set.

  The bonus effect data and the loss notification effect data include sound data, lamp data, and reel effect data. When the start lever 33 is operated, the stepping motor 101 is controlled on the basis of the effect data of the reels, and the sub reels 5 to 7 are driven to rotate in the forward direction for one frame of the decorative symbols, and the effect of automatically stopping is performed.

  In (4), the sub-reels 5 to 7 rotate from the stop state of (3) by one decorative symbol frame while maintaining the combination of “red 7-red 7-red 7” in this stop state. (5) shows a state of automatic stop (re-stop) after the rotation of one frame of the decorative symbol. When the start lever 33 is operated, the special effect that automatically stops by rotating the sub-reels 5 to 7 in the forward direction by one frame of the decorative pattern is repeated several times for less than 17 seconds until the special effect timer becomes 0. It can be carried out. By operating the start lever 33 once again, (6) is again from the stopped state of (5), again while maintaining the combination of “red 7-red 7-red 7” symbols in this stopped state. It shows that the sub reels 5 to 7 are rotationally driven (revaried) in the forward direction by the amount, and (7) shows a stopped state (restop) in which the sub reels 5 to 7 are automatically stopped thereafter.

  In the example of (3), as shown in FIG. 48, in each of the sub reels 5 to 7, the combination of the decorative pattern of “red 7-red 7-red 7” is two symbols after the upper stage of the reel display window 50. Since the start lever 33 is operated twice in this manner, the combination of the decorative pattern “red 7-red 7-red 7” is placed on the upper stage of the reel display window 50 in each of the sub reels 5 to 7. Displayed and the player can see it. The movement from (4) to (7) is common to the bonus effect data (step S524) and the loss notification effect data (step S525), but the hidden decoration of “red 7-red 7-red 7” is used. When the combination of symbols is displayed on the reel display window 50, in the case of bonus effect data, the combination of decorative patterns of “red 7-red 7-red 7” is the reel display window 50 unless the start lever 33 is operated. However, in the case of the effect data for notification of losing, if the combination of decorative patterns of “Red 7-Red 7-Red 7” is displayed on the reel display window 50, Thereafter, the sub reels 5 to 7 are automatically rotated (reverse direction or forward direction), and the combination of the “red 7-red 7-red 7” decorative symbols on each of the sub reels 5 to 7 is displayed on the reel display window 50. Move outside, I will not touch the eyes of the technique's. That is, in the case of the loss notification effect data, it appears that the combination of the decorative symbols “red 7-red 7-red 7” is displayed on the reel display window 50, and is eventually not displayed.

  In this way, when the transition to the special effect is made, if BB1 is won internally, the symbol corresponds to “red 7-red 7-red 7” which is a combination of the special symbols of BB1 on the main control board 61. A combination of decorative patterns of “red 7-red 7-red 7” (FIG. 26) can be displayed on the sub reels 5 to 7 by special effects. Therefore, the confirmation of BB1 can be notified by displaying a combination of decorative patterns of “red 7-red 7-red 7” by a special effect. When BB1 is won internally, the symbol combination of “character-character-character” is displayed in the same manner as in the case of the combination of “red 7-red 7-red 7” described above ( In some cases, it is stopped outside the reel display window 50 and the sub-reels 5 to 7 are moved little by little by the player's starting operation and displayed in the reel display window 50), and the confirmation of BB1 is notified.

  In addition, when BB2 is won internally, the “blue 7-blue 7-blue 7” symbol corresponding to “blue 7-blue 7-blue 7”, which is a special symbol combination of BB2 on the main control board 61, is displayed. A combination of decorative symbols (FIG. 26) can be displayed on the sub reels 5 to 7 by special effects. Further, in this case, a symbol combination of “character-character-character” is displayed (stopped outside the reel display window 50, and the sub reels 5 to 7 are moved little by little by a player's start operation. Display in the display window unit 50), and confirmation of BB1 may be notified.

  On the other hand, when the special effect is executed, if the player actually wins the inside cherry and does not win the BB1 or BB2 for the bonus game operation, “Red 7-Red 7-Red 7 ”Or“ Blue 7-Blue 7-Blue 7 ”decorative pattern (or“ Character-Character-Character ”decorative pattern) is displayed once with a special effect, but after that, outside the reel display window 50 Since it moves, the player is notified that the bonus game is lost even if the transition is made to the special effect.

  As described above, according to the gaming machine 1, even if the player thinks that the game cannot be shifted to the BB bonus game due to the combination of the symbols of the main reels 2 to 4 and the sub reels 5 to 7, the start lever 33 is subsequently used. When the start operation is performed, the sub reels 5 to 7 are re-varied and stopped again, and “Red 7-Red 7-Red 7” and “Blue 7-Blue 7-Blue” are notified that the BB has been established. 7 ”is displayed on the reel display window 50 and the player is notified of the confirmation of the BB. Therefore, the combinations of the symbols not related to the BB winning are displayed on the main reels 2 to 4 and the sub reels 5 to 7. Even when played, the player can continue the game with expectation, so that the interest of the game can be improved effectively.

  Moreover, due to re-variation and re-stop, “Red 7-Red 7-Red 7” is displayed for BB1, and “Blue 7-Blue 7-Blue 7” is displayed for BB2, so the type of BB Until the player is notified, it is possible to effectively improve the interest of the game.

  Furthermore, in addition to “red 7-red 7-red 7” and “blue 7-blue 7-blue 7” which are bonus symbols on the sub reels 5 to 7, “character- Since the player is informed of the BB confirmation by displaying the reach that is a combination of the characters “character-character” with a special effect, the symbols of the combinations not related to the BB winning are the main reels 2 to 4 and the sub reels 5. Since the player can continue the game with expectation even when displayed on -7, the interest of the game can be effectively improved.

  Further, during the special performance, each time the start lever 33 is started, the sub reels 5 to 7 are re-variable and stopped again. Since the combination of symbols “7-blue 7” and “character-character-character” may be displayed, it is possible to prompt the player to operate the start lever 33 and further improve the interest of the game.

  Further, in the above-described example, it is configured such that re-variation and re-stop are performed for one symbol by one operation of the start lever 33. However, re-variation and re-stop may be performed for a plurality of symbols. Then, one rotation or a plurality of rotations may be performed, or re-variation and re-stop may be performed for a distance shorter than one symbol (for example, 0.1 symbols). In addition, by operating the start lever 33 once, a combination of symbols “red 7-red 7-red 7”, “blue 7-blue 7-blue 7”, and “character-character-character” is displayed. May be.

  Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, the special effects are performed by the sub reels 5 to 7, but the special effects may be performed by the main reels 2 to 4.

It is a top view which shows the external appearance of the game machine which is one Embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the electrical connection of a game machine. It is a block diagram which shows the electrical connection of the sub control board of a game machine. It is explanatory drawing of the symbol arrangement | positioning table of a special symbol. It is explanatory drawing of an internal lottery table determination table. It is explanatory drawing of the internal lottery table for general game states. It is explanatory drawing of the internal lottery table for RB game states. It is explanatory drawing of the internal lottery table for RT game states. It is explanatory drawing of the internal winning combination determination table for a small combination and replay. It is explanatory drawing of the internal winning combination determination table for bonuses. It is explanatory drawing of a symbol combination table. It is explanatory drawing of the table at the time of a bonus action | operation. It is explanatory drawing of an internal winning combination storing area. It is explanatory drawing of the carryover combination storage area. It is explanatory drawing of the operating flag storage area. It is a main flowchart by control of main CPU. It is a main flowchart by control of main CPU. It is a flowchart of a bonus operation | movement monitoring process. It is a flowchart of an internal lottery process. It is a flowchart of a reel stop control process. It is a flowchart of a bonus end check process. It is a flowchart of RT game number control processing. It is a flowchart of a bonus operation check process. It is a flowchart of the interruption process by control of main CPU. It is a symbol arrangement | positioning table of a decoration symbol. It is a comparison table of a special design and a decoration design. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structure of a transmission command. It is explanatory drawing of a command classification. It is explanatory drawing of a game state. It is explanatory drawing of the parameter of an input state command. It is explanatory drawing of the parameter of a reel stop state command. It is explanatory drawing of the parameter of a start command. It is a flowchart of the process performed at the time of power activation. It is a flowchart of a lamp control task. It is a flowchart of a sound control task. It is a flowchart of a sub reel control task. It is a flowchart of the main board | substrate communication task. It is a flowchart of a received command analysis process. It is a flowchart of a process at the time of start command reception. It is a flowchart of the stop mode determination process for sub reels. It is a flowchart of the stop mode determination process for sub reels. It is a flowchart of a process at the time of display command reception. It is a flowchart of a process at the time of reel stop command reception. It is a flowchart of a process at the time of input state command reception. It is explanatory drawing explaining a special effect. It is explanatory drawing explaining a special effect. It is explanatory drawing explaining a special effect. It is explanatory drawing explaining a special effect.

Explanation of symbols

1 gaming machine 2 main reel 3 main reel 4 main reel 5 sub reel 6 sub reel 7 sub reel 33 start lever 34 stop button 35 stop button 36 stop button

Claims (2)

A plurality of reels each provided with a plurality of symbols on the outer peripheral surface for informing a game result;
A display window for visually recognizing a part of the plurality of symbols for each reel;
Start operation detecting means for detecting a start operation for starting a unit game ;
Stop operation detecting means for detecting the stop operation;
Special condition permission determining means for determining whether or not to allow one special condition of a plurality of types of special conditions to be established;
Special condition satisfaction determining means for determining whether or not the special condition is satisfied by the special condition permission determining means;
When the reels are rotated by the detection of the start operation performed by the start operation detection means, the symbols displayed on the display window are changed, and when the stop operation is detected by the stop operation detection means Stops the rotation of the reel corresponding to the stop operation, and stops the display of the symbols on the display window within a predetermined number of frames from the position where the stop operation is detected for the reel. Means,
Special gaming state control means for controlling the gaming state to a special gaming state that is relatively advantageous to the player when the special condition is established by the special condition establishment judging means;
With
The symbol display control means includes:
When a predetermined condition is established, stop a special symbol combination that informs that establishment of the special condition is permitted by the special condition permission determining means at a position outside the display window,
Thus, a game lock for prohibiting the start of the next unit game even if the start operation is detected by the start operation detecting means when the special symbol combination is stopped at a position outside the display window And
Within a predetermined period in which the predetermined condition is satisfied, the start operation can be detected a plurality of times until the special symbol combination is displayed,
Each time the start operation is detected by the start operation detection means , the special condition permission determination means determines whether the one special condition is satisfied without starting the unit game, and the special symbol Re-variation is performed to rotate the reels while maintaining the combination of the symbols and to re-variate the symbols displayed on the display window.
After the re-variation is performed, a re-stop is performed to stop the reels again,
Wherein when said specific condition is satisfied displays the combination of the special symbol corresponding to the one special conditions determined at the position of the display window by a special condition permits determining means,
When the special condition is not established, the special symbol combination is displayed at a position outside the display window.
A gaming machine characterized by that. The symbol display control means includes:
When the predetermined condition is satisfied and the combination of the special symbols is stopped at a position outside the display window, each time the start operation is detected by the start operation detecting means, the reels move in a predetermined direction. By performing the re-variation and re-stop within a distance of a predetermined symbol of the above, and repeatedly performing the re-variation and re-stop,
When the special condition is established by the special condition permission determining means, the special symbol combination is displayed at a position in the display window by repeating the re-variation and the re-stop, and the special condition is determined. When the condition is not satisfied, the special symbol combination is displayed once at the position in the display window by repeating the re-variation and the re-stop, and then the operation is performed without any operation. Stop the special symbol combination at a position outside the display window,
The gaming machine according to claim 1.

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