JP5393163B2 - How to produce a gaming machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a production method for a gaming machine such as a pachinko game machine, and in particular, has a production button (so-called “chance button”) for accepting an operation from a player, and a subsequent production based on the operation from the player. The present invention relates to a production method of a gaming machine that changes the content of the game machine.

  Conventionally, when a game ball launched into the game area of the game board enters a specific start winning opening, three rows of symbols (for example, symbols of numbers 1 to 12) displayed on the display unit move from top to bottom. A game machine is widely used in which, when the same or related symbols are displayed on a certain line (active line), a big win is opened and a big win game is made.

  Furthermore, in recent years, a game machine has been provided with a production button for accepting an operation from a player, and the content of the production is changed by the player pressing the production button during the game, thereby improving the gameability. Is also increasing. For example, for such a gaming machine, an upper limit is set for the meter value of the expected value meter displayed when a reach action occurs, depending on the type of fluctuation pattern at that time, and the meter is displayed each time the effect button is pressed. Some control is performed so that the meter value that increases as the value increases does not exceed the upper limit value (see, for example, Patent Document 1 below).

JP 2007-136045 A

  However, in the above-described conventional technique, it is difficult to understand how the player's operation is reflected in the production, so that there are cases where the player does not actively operate the production button. For such a player, it is difficult to raise the consciousness of participation in the game by operating the effect button, and there is a problem that the player is bored. In some cases, a player who is bored with the game quits the game.

  In order to solve the above-described problems caused by the prior art, the present invention provides a game machine presentation method that can enhance the interest of a player in the game, improve the fun of the game, and can play for a long time. With the goal.

  In order to solve the above-described problems and achieve the object, the present invention employs the following configurations. Reference numerals in parentheses indicate correspondence with the embodiments in order to facilitate understanding of the present invention, and do not limit the scope of the present invention. An effect method for a gaming machine according to the present invention includes an effect execution step of executing a specific effect capable of receiving a predetermined operation by a player, and an operation reception step of receiving the predetermined operation during the execution of the specific effect. When the predetermined operation is received by the operation receiving step, the predetermined reel (203c, 203f, 203i) among the plurality of reels (203) that are fluctuating has a predetermined appearance that represents a specific symbol. And stopping when the predetermined operation is not accepted, based on the design control step of stopping at a different outcome from the predetermined outcome, and the outcome stopped by the design control step. A selection step of selecting an image to be displayed on the display screen after stopping from a plurality of images prepared in advance, and the image selected in the selection step is the display screen 700) an output control process to be displayed above, wherein the effect execution process makes the predetermined reels (203c, 203f, 203i) visible to the player and other than the predetermined reels. It is characterized in that the specific effect is made to make the reels (203a, 203b, 203d, 203e, 203g, 203h) difficult for the player to see.

  In the above invention, the selecting step selects a sound to be output after stopping the output from a plurality of prepared sounds based on the output stopped by the design control step, In the output control step, the sound selected in the selection step is output as a sound.

  In the above invention, the effect execution step is characterized in that the specific effect is executed by displaying the plurality of reels (203) on a display screen (700).

  In the above invention, when the predetermined operation is received, a lottery processing step of performing a lottery for determining the predetermined outcome using a lottery table in which a winning probability for each outcome pattern is determined. In addition, the lottery processing step includes performing a lottery using a lottery table having different winning probabilities for each of the outcome patterns in a low probability gaming state and a high probability gaming state, The symbol control step is characterized by stopping the number indicated by the number pattern selected in the lottery processing step.

  According to said structure, in the specific production which can receive predetermined | prescribed operation, when the operation was received and when the operation was not received, the output to be stopped could be different and stopped Depending on the outcome, the image displayed after stopping the outcome can be made different.

  According to the effect method of the gaming machine according to the present invention, it is possible for the player to determine how the predetermined operation is reflected in the effect by the appearance stopped at the specific effect and the image corresponding to the output. Can be clearly notified. Therefore, it is possible to increase the player's awareness of participation in the game and to entertain the game without boring the player who plays for a long time.

It is explanatory drawing (the 1) which shows the basic composition of the game machine of embodiment concerning this invention. It is explanatory drawing (the 2) which shows the basic composition of the game machine of embodiment concerning this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the internal structure of the control part of the game machine of embodiment concerning this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the game state which the game machine of embodiment concerning this invention can take. It is a block diagram which shows the functional structure of the game machine of embodiment concerning this invention. It is explanatory drawing (the 1) which shows the content of the outcome which the game machine of embodiment concerning this invention stops. It is explanatory drawing (the 2) which shows the content of the outcome which the game machine of embodiment concerning this invention stops. It is explanatory drawing (the 3) which shows the content of the outcome which the game machine of embodiment concerning this invention stops. It is explanatory drawing (the 1) which shows an example of the effect image which the game machine of embodiment concerning this invention displays. It is explanatory drawing (the 2) which shows an example of the effect image which the gaming machine of embodiment concerning this invention displays. It is a flowchart which shows the process sequence of the game machine of embodiment concerning this invention. It is explanatory drawing (the 1) which shows the specific example of a display of the game machine in the pushing effect of this embodiment. It is explanatory drawing (the 2) which shows the specific example of a display of the gaming machine in the pushing effect of this embodiment. It is explanatory drawing (the 3) which shows the specific example of a display of the gaming machine in the pushing effect of this embodiment. It is explanatory drawing (the 4) which shows the specific example of a display of the gaming machine in the eye-promotion effect of this embodiment. It is explanatory drawing (the 5) which shows the specific example of a display of the gaming machine in the pushing effect of this embodiment.

  Exemplary embodiments of a game machine presentation method according to the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

(Embodiment)
(Basic configuration of gaming machine)
First, the basic configuration of the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described. 1 and 2 are explanatory views showing the basic configuration of the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 1, the state which looked at an example of the game machine of embodiment concerning this invention from the front is shown. FIG. 2 shows a state in which a part of the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention is disassembled and viewed from an oblique direction.

  1 and 2, the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention includes a game board 101. At a lower position of the game board 101, a launching unit (see reference numeral 392 in FIG. 3) for launching a game ball is arranged in the game area 103. The game ball launched by driving the launching unit rises between the rails 102a and 102b and reaches the upper position of the game board 101, and then falls within the game area 103 by its own weight. The game area 103 is provided with a plurality of nails, windmills, etc., and the game balls launched into the game area 103 change the falling direction in various directions by colliding with the plurality of nails, windmills, etc. Fall.

  In the game area 103, a start winning port 105, a winning gate 106, a plurality of normal winning ports 107, and the like are arranged. Each of the start winning holes 105, the winning gates 106, and the plurality of ordinary winning holes 107 has detection units (indicated by reference numerals 321 to 324 in FIG. 3) whose outputs change depending on whether or not the game balls are won at the winning holes 105 to 107. Reference) is provided. The start winning opening 105 is provided with an electric tulip (hereinafter referred to as “electric chew”), which is not shown in the figure, and is a tulip-shaped accessory that is electrically opened and closed. The electric Chu operates to open the start winning opening 105 larger than usual for a predetermined time at a predetermined timing when the winning gate 106 is won.

  Below the game area 103, a special winning opening 109 is provided. The big prize opening 109 is provided with a big prize door 109a that closes the big prize opening 109 so that it can be opened. The big prize opening 109 is closed by a big prize door 109a in a state other than the big hit state. The big prize opening 109 is opened and closed by the big prize door 109a by a special prize opening opening / closing section (see reference numeral 331 in FIG. 3). At the bottom of the game area 103, there is provided a collection port 108 for collecting game balls that have not won any winning ports.

  A frame member 110 is provided on the outer peripheral portion of the game area 103 of the game board 101. The frame member 110 has a shape that surrounds the periphery of the game area 103 on the four sides of the game board 101 in the vertical and horizontal directions. The frame member 110 is provided with an operation handle 113 at a lower right portion toward the gaming machine. The operation handle 113 includes a firing instruction member 114 that drives the above-described launching unit to launch a game ball.

  The firing instruction member 114 is provided on the outer peripheral portion of the operation handle 113 so as to rotate clockwise as viewed from the player. The firing unit launches a game ball in a state where the firing instruction member 114 is directly operated by the player and rotated in a predetermined direction (for example, clockwise). The operation handle 113 is provided with a sensor for detecting that the player is directly operating the firing instruction member 114. Since a sensor that detects that the player directly operates the firing instruction member 114 is a known technique, a description thereof will be omitted.

  In the frame member 110, a chance button 117 that accepts an operation by the player is provided on the lower side of the game area 103. In this embodiment, the chance button 117 has a convex button shape. The chance button 117 may be an input pad that employs a touch panel system in addition to the convex button.

  In the frame member 110, a cross key 118 is provided next to the chance button 117. The cross key 118 includes a cursor key for selecting an operation content and the like, and an “ENTER” key (not shown) for confirming the operation content selected by operating the cursor key.

  In the game board 101, a display unit 104 is arranged at the center of the game area 103. The display unit 104 can be realized by, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD). The display unit 104 realized by a liquid crystal display includes a liquid crystal display panel 201 capable of displaying various images in color, and a liquid crystal shutter 202 provided on the back surface of the liquid crystal display panel 201.

  A light source (not shown) that illuminates the display unit 104 is provided on the back side of the display unit 104. The liquid crystal shutter 202 operates so as to transmit or block illumination light emitted from the light source to the front side of the gaming machine over the entire display area or in a partial display area based on the applied voltage.

  A reel 203 is disposed on the back side of the display unit 104. The reel 203 is configured by arranging a total of nine (9 frames) small reels 203a to 203i of 3 vertical × 3 horizontal, arranged in a matrix. The small reels 203 a to 203 i are arranged on the back side of the display unit 104 so as to form a plane parallel to the display screen formed by the display unit 104.

  Each of the small reels 203a to 203i has a cylindrical shape, and a plurality of types of symbols are written on the outer peripheral surface. Specifically, a symbol for jackpot (for example, “7”) and a symbol for losing (for example, an asterisk) are written on the outer peripheral surfaces of the small reels 203a to 203i, respectively. Each of the small reels 203a to 203i is provided so as to be rotatable about a cylindrical axis.

  A motor that rotates each reel independently is connected to each of the small reels 203a to 203i. By driving the motors and individually rotating the small reels 203a to 203i, the symbols directed to the display unit 104 by the small reels 203a to 203i can be changed. Each of the small reels 203a to 203i shows a predetermined outcome in a state where one symbol is stopped toward the display unit 104 side.

  The light source is provided between the display unit 104 and the reel 203. The light source can be constituted by a plurality of LEDs, for example. The light source functions as a backlight of the display unit 104 and also functions as illumination that illuminates the symbols indicated by the small reels 203 a to 203 i in the reel 203.

(Internal configuration of control unit)
FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an internal configuration of the control unit of the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention. The control unit 300 includes a plurality of control units including a main control unit 301, an effect control unit 302, and a prize ball control unit 303. Each control unit 301 to 303 is provided on an independent substrate. Each of the control units 301 to 303 may be partly or wholly provided on the same substrate, for example, the main control unit 301 and the prize ball control unit 303 are provided on the same printed circuit board.

  The main control unit 301 controls basic operations related to gaming of the gaming machine. The main control unit 301 includes a CPU 311, a ROM 312, a RAM 313, and the like. The CPU 311 executes basic processing according to the progress of game content based on the program stored in the ROM 312. The ROM 312 stores various programs for executing basic processing associated with the progress of game content, a jackpot value used for jackpot determination, and the like. The RAM 313 functions as a data work area when the CPU 311 performs arithmetic processing.

  The CPU 311 counts, for example, a jackpot determination random number as a basic process associated with the progress of game contents. Specifically, for example, in the case of a gaming machine whose jackpot probability is set to 1/280, the CPU 311 counts up by +1 with a numerical value from 0 to 279 while the gaming machine is activated. . The CPU 311 starts counting up from the time of supplying power to the main control unit 301, and after counting for one loop, counts for the next one loop. The RAM 313 functions as a counter for counting such jackpot determination random numbers.

  Then, when the game ball launched by the launching unit 392 wins the start winning opening 105 (hereinafter referred to as “start winning”), the CPU 311 acquires the count value at the time of starting winning as a jackpot determination random number. The jackpot determination random number to be acquired differs depending on the timing of starting winning. Specifically, for example, in the case of a gaming machine in which the jackpot probability 1/280 is set, the CPU 311 calculates a numerical value counted at the time of starting winning from a numerical value group including integers from 0 to 279, Acquired as a jackpot determination random number. If it is said example, the numerical value in the numerical group comprised by the integer from 0 to 279 will be acquired as a random number for jackpot determination.

  Whenever the CPU 311 acquires the jackpot determination random number, the CPU 311 compares the acquired jackpot determination random number with the jackpot value stored in the ROM 312 and performs a jackpot determination. Specifically, the CPU 311 determines, for example, whether or not the jackpot determination random number matches the jackpot value, and determines that the match is a jackpot. In the jackpot determination, when the jackpot determination random number for performing the jackpot determination is acquired, that is, when the effect corresponding to the previous start winning is being performed at the time of starting winning, the effect being performed is ended Then do it.

  Although the details will be described later, the jackpot value varies depending on the game state being executed. For example, in the gaming state having the jackpot probability of 1/280 (hereinafter referred to as “low probability state”), the jackpot value is set to “0”. In a gaming state with a jackpot probability of 1/28 (hereinafter referred to as “high probability state”), the jackpot value is set to “0” to “9”. Therefore, in the high probability state, the jackpot probability is 10 times that in the low probability state, and the gaming state is such that the player can expect a jackpot as compared to the low probability state.

  Further, the CPU 311 performs, for example, a reach random number count, a variation pattern random number count, a design random number count, and the like as a basic process as the game content progresses. The reach random number is acquired when there is a start winning, and determines whether or not to perform a reach effect in the effect performed according to the start winning. The reach random number is effective when the result of the jackpot determination is a loss, and the gaming machine performs a loss effect with a reach effect when the result of the jackpot determination is a loss and the CPU 311 acquires a specific reach random number.

  The variation pattern random number is acquired immediately before starting the production every time the production is performed according to the start winning prize, and determines the variation pattern (for example, the variation time) of the symbol displayed on the reel 203 or the display unit 104 at the time of the production. The symbol random number is acquired when it is determined that the jackpot is determined to be a jackpot, and determines the jackpot type (the jackpot type will be described later). Reach random number counting, variation pattern random number counting, and design random number counting are performed using separate counters. Since the counting of each random number is the same as the counting of the jackpot determination random number described above, the description thereof is omitted.

  On the input side of the main control unit 301, a start winning port detecting unit 321, a gate detecting unit 322, a normal winning port detecting unit 323, a big winning port detecting unit 324, and the like are connected. The start winning opening detection unit 321 detects a winning ball that has won the start winning opening 105. The gate detection unit 322 detects a game ball that has passed through the winning gate 106. The normal winning opening detecting unit 323 detects a game ball won in the normal winning opening 107. The special winning opening detection unit 324 detects a winning ball that has won the special winning opening 109. Each of the detection units 321 to 324 can be realized by a proximity sensor, for example. In this case, each sensor realizing the detection units 321 to 324 outputs a signal indicating an ON state at a timing when the game ball approaches each sensor.

  The CPU 311 monitors the output from each of the detection units 321 to 324 every predetermined time (for example, 4 msec). When a game ball wins the start winning port 105, the winning gate 106, the normal winning port 107, or the big winning port 109, the outputs from the corresponding detection units 321 to 324 are continuously turned on twice or more. Based on the output from each of the detection units 321 to 324, the CPU 311 determines that there has been a prize at a location corresponding to the detection units 321 to 324 that have been turned on continuously twice or more.

  A large winning opening / closing unit 331 is connected to the output side of the main control unit 301, and when the CPU 311 detects that a game ball has won the large winning port 109, the large winning opening / closing unit 331 has a large value. An opening / closing signal of the winning door 109a is output. The special winning opening / closing unit 331 controls the opening / closing of the special winning opening 109 by the special winning door 109 a based on the open / close signal output from the main control unit 301. The big prize opening / closing part 331 can be realized by, for example, a solenoid coupled to the big prize door 109a.

  The CPU 311 controls the big prize opening / closing unit 331 so that the big prize opening 109 is opened only for a certain period when a big hit occurs. The big winning opening 109 is opened after a predetermined time after the big hit is determined by the big hit determination, for example. In addition, when a big hit occurs, the CPU 311 controls the big prize opening / closing part 331 so that the opening / closing operation of closing the big prize opening 109 and then closing it again is repeated a predetermined round (for example, 15 rounds). The period of one round is, for example, a period during which ten game balls are won in the big winning opening 109 or a predetermined period (for example, 30 seconds). The jackpot is programmed in advance to occur with a predetermined probability (for example, 1/280) based on the generated random number.

  In addition, when the CPU 311 detects that a game ball has won a place where there is a payout, such as the start winning hole 105, the normal winning hole 107, and the big winning hole 109, the winning ball control connected to the output side of the main control unit 301 is performed. A prize ball control signal is output to the unit 303. Based on the output signal from the main control unit 301, the prize ball control unit 303 pays out a prize connected to the output side of the prize ball control unit 303 so as to pay out the number of prize balls according to the place where the gaming machine has won a prize. The unit 391 is driven and controlled.

  The prize ball control unit 303 includes a CPU 381, a ROM 382, a RAM 383, and the like. Based on the control signal from the main control unit 301 and the program stored in the ROM 382, the CPU 381 drives and controls the payout unit 391 connected to the output side of the prize ball control unit 303, and the number corresponding to the place where the prize is won. The prize ball is paid out.

  During the opening / closing operation of the big prize opening 109, the prize ball control unit 303 pays out 15 prize balls, for example, every time one game ball wins the big prize opening 109. The RAM 383 functions as a data work area when the CPU 381 performs arithmetic processing. The payout unit 391 is connected to a game ball storage unit, and includes a motor for paying out game balls, a sensor for counting the number of game balls paid out, and the like. The payout unit 391 pays out the number of prize balls corresponding to the winning location according to the output signal from the prize ball control unit 303.

  The award ball control unit 303 detects an operation of launching a game ball with respect to the launch unit 392 and controls the launch of the game ball. The launching unit 392 launches a game ball for gaming, and includes a sensor that detects a game operation by the player, a solenoid that launches the game ball, and the like (all of which are not shown). When the award ball control unit 303 detects a game operation by the sensor of the launch unit 392, the game ball 103 is intermittently fired by driving a solenoid or the like in response to the detected game operation, thereby playing the game area 103 of the game board 101. A game ball is sent out.

  The effect control unit 302 controls various effects during the game. The display unit 104 and the reel 203 are connected to the output side of the effect control unit 302. The effect control unit 302 controls the operation of the display unit 104 and the reel 203 to control the effect operation during the game. The effect control unit 302 includes a CPU 341, a ROM 342, a RAM 343, and the like.

  Based on the control signal from the main control unit 301 and the program stored in the ROM 342, the CPU 341 executes effect processing that produces game content. The ROM 342 stores various programs related to execution of the effect processing, various image data (background image, design image, character image, etc.) displayed on the display unit 104, and rotation control data for the reel 203. The RAM 343 functions as a data work area when the CPU 341 performs arithmetic processing.

  The CPU 341 reads a program and various image data stored in the ROM 342, and performs various image processing such as background image display processing, symbol image display / variation processing, and character image display processing. When executing various image processes, the CPU 341 reads out necessary image data from the ROM 342 and writes the read image data into the VRAM 344 provided in the effect control unit 302 or the like. When writing image data to the VRAM 344 provided in the effect control unit 302, the CPU 341 processes the image data so that the design image and the character image can be seen in front of the background image.

  Specifically, for example, when the display position of the background image and the design image displayed on the display unit 104 overlaps the same position in the display screen, the Z value of the Z buffer of each image data by a known hidden surface removal method such as the Z buffer method , The symbol image is preferentially stored in the VRAM 344 or the like. Based on the image data written in the VRAM 344, the display unit 104 displays an image in which the design image and the character image can be seen in front of the background image. Specifically, the display unit 104 displays, for example, a design that produces a game content until winning a prize, a reach (a state in which two of the three symbols are arranged), a design that produces a game content at the time of a big hit. Output the image data.

  In addition, the CPU 341 reads a program and rotation control data stored in the ROM 342 and performs rotation control processing of the reel 203. In the rotation control processing of the reel 203, the CPU 341 reads out necessary rotation control data from the ROM 342, and the rotation direction, rotation speed, and rotation speed of the motors connected to the small reels 203a to 203i based on the read rotation control data. Control etc.

  “Rotation” in this embodiment indicates an operation state in which an arbitrary reference position on each of the small reels 203a to 203i moves 360 degrees on the circumference around each axis. In addition, in this embodiment, “rotation” means that an arbitrary reference position on each of the small reels 203a to 203i moves on the circumference around each axis at a rotation angle of less than 360 degrees or greater than 360 degrees. , Including a so-called “turning” operating state.

  Specifically, the CPU 341 shows a state where, for example, a predetermined number (for example, three) of symbols are aligned on one line by controlling the rotation of the reel 203. Further, the CPU 341 controls the rotation of the reel 203, and specifically shows a state in which, for example, the number of symbols indicating the reach (two of the three symbols) is aligned on one line.

  The CPU 341 assists the design of the reel 203 in accordance with the design state of the plurality of small reels 203a to 203i so that the effect image displayed on the display unit 104 and the design state of the reel 203 are linked to each other. Generate and output various image data. Specifically, the CPU 341 assists the design of the reel 203 when, for example, the design of the reel 203 indicates a reach state or a jackpot state, and the image data of the effect image that enhances the player's expectation and excitement. Is generated and output.

  Further, the CPU 341 generates and outputs image data of an effect image representing the effect mode being executed. For example, the CPU 341 reads the image data of the background image associated with the effect mode being executed and writes it in the VRAM 344. As described above, if the CPU 341 also displays a symbol image or a character image at this time, the CPU 341 processes the image data so that they can be seen in front of the background image.

  Further, the CPU 341 generates and outputs different image data according to the presence / absence of the effect button operation or the operation timing of the effect button so that the effect image displayed on the display unit 104 changes according to the operation of the effect button. Further, the CPU 341 varies the rotation control of the reel 203 according to the presence / absence of the effect button operation or the operation timing of the effect button so that the symbol formed by the reel 203 changes according to the operation of the effect button.

  An audio control unit 355 is connected to the output side of the effect control unit 302. The CPU 341 outputs data (audio output control data) for controlling the energization state of the coil included in the speaker 377 to the audio control unit 355. The audio control unit 355 changes various energization states for the coil based on the audio output control data output from the effect control unit 302, so that various sounds such as BGM, effect sound effects, character dialogue, and the like are output from the speaker 377. Output from.

(Basic operation of gaming machines)
Next, an example of the basic operation of the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described. When the gaming machine detects a player's operation, the gaming unit launches a game ball by the launching unit 392. The launched game ball falls downward in the game area 103 by its own weight while colliding with a nail or a windmill. A part of the launched game balls wins a winning prize opening 105, a normal winning opening 107, a grand prize winning opening 109, and the like.

  The main control unit 301 outputs the winning status of the game balls at the place where there is a payout, such as the start winning port 105, the normal winning port 107, and the big winning port 109, to the winning ball control unit 303. The winning ball control unit 303 pays out the number of winning balls corresponding to the winning situation in accordance with the output signal from the main control unit 301. Further, when the game ball wins the winning gate 106, the main control unit 301 opens the start winning opening 105 larger than usual for a predetermined time.

  Further, when the game ball wins the start winning opening 105 (start winning prize), the main control unit 301 performs the jackpot determination described above, and performs a lose effect or a jackpot effect according to the jackpot determination result. Specifically, when the gaming machine determines that the acquired jackpot determination random number and the jackpot value do not match, the effect control unit 302 executes a lose effect. In addition, when the main control unit 301 determines that the acquired jackpot determination random number matches the jackpot value, the effect control unit 302 executes the jackpot effect. Further, when the main control unit 301 determines that the acquired jackpot determination random number and the jackpot value match, the main control unit 301 opens the jackpot 109 for a predetermined number of rounds.

  Further, the main control unit 301 outputs a signal corresponding to the place where the winning is made to the winning ball control unit 303, and the winning ball control unit 303 controls driving of the payout unit 391 according to the output signal from the main control unit 301. , Pay out the number of prize balls according to the place where the prize was won. And the main control part 301 complete | finishes a jackpot state after completion | finish of jackpot presentation, and returns to another game state. The gaming state that shifts after the big hit state will be described later with reference to FIG.

  When there is another start winning during the execution of the production corresponding to the previous start winning, the main control unit 301 acquires the big hit determining random number at the time of the start winning and holds the acquired big hit determining random number To do. Then, after the effect that is being executed is finished, the jackpot determination using the reserved jackpot determination random number is performed, and a signal indicating the jackpot determination result is output to the effect control unit 302. The effect control unit 302 performs various effects according to the output signal from the main control unit 301.

  Further, when the main control unit 301 obtains and holds the jackpot determination random number, the main control unit 301 may determine whether the held jackpot determination random number matches the jackpot value (so-called “look ahead”). (Hereinafter referred to as “look ahead”). Then, a signal indicating the prefetch result is output to the effect control unit 302. As a result, the effect control unit 302 can perform an effect that gradually increases the player's expectation before the start of the big change.

  The effect control unit 302 uses the display unit 104 and the reel 203 to perform various effects such as a loss effect and a jackpot effect. Specifically, the effect control unit 302, for example, rotates all the small reels 203a to 203i, and then sequentially stops the small reels 203a to 203i to indicate a predetermined outcome using the reel 203. An image in accordance with the rotation and stop operation of the reel 203 is displayed on the display unit 104.

  The display unit 104 displays an image that is linked to the operation of the reel 203 and the roll made by the reel 203. In this manner, by interlinking the image display operation on the display unit 104 and the operation of the reel 203, it is possible to enhance the effect of the effect produced by the gaming machine. Further, the display unit 104 displays an image corresponding to the effect mode being executed.

  Since the display unit 104 and the reel 203 are arranged so as to overlap each other in the depth direction of the gaming machine, the player visually recognizes the entire reel 203 or some of the small reels 203a to 203i in accordance with an image displayed on the display unit 104. can do. The player sees the reel 203 on the rear side (back side) of the display unit 104 through the display unit 104, and simultaneously produces the effect by the display unit 104 and the effect by the reel 203 without shifting the line of sight. Can see.

  In addition, since the display unit 104 and the reel 203 are arranged so as to overlap in the depth direction of the gaming machine, in a region where the display unit 104 and the reel 203 overlap with each other, The player can see the entire reel 203 or show the player only a part of the reel 203 (for example, only one of the small reels 203a to 203i is cut off). Specifically, when the display unit 104 is realized by, for example, a liquid crystal display, an effect of showing the player the entire reel 203 or only a part of the reel 203 by adjusting the opening / closing degree of the shutter. Can be done.

(Game state that the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention can take)
Next, game states that can be taken by the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described. FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing gaming states that can be taken by the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention. The gaming machine can take a low-probability gaming state (hereinafter referred to as “low-probability state”) and a high-probability gaming state (hereinafter referred to as “high-probability state”).

  In FIG. 4, the high probability state is constituted by a probability variation gaming state 420 and a latent probability variation gaming state 430, and the low probability state is constituted by a normal gaming state 440 and a short-time gaming state 450. The gaming machine changes the gaming state via the jackpot state 410, for example. The contents of each game state will be described below.

  When the jackpot is won in other gaming states other than the jackpot state, the gaming machine shifts to the jackpot state 410. The jackpot state 410 is continued until a predetermined jackpot end condition is satisfied. The jackpot ending condition is, for example, to open the big winning holes 109 for the number of specified rounds. When the jackpot ending condition is satisfied, the game state set for each winning jackpot type is entered.

  For example, the gaming machine shifts to a probability-changing gaming state 420 if the winning jackpot type is a probability-changing jackpot, and transitions to a time-saving gaming state 450 if it is a normal jackpot. Further, for example, if the winning jackpot type is a latent probability change jackpot (hereinafter referred to as “latent probability jackpot”), the gaming machine shifts to a latent probability change gaming state 430.

  In the gaming machine 1 of this embodiment, the number of opening / closing of the big winning opening 109 in each of the above jackpots, that is, the number of rounds is the same number of rounds (for example, eight rounds), The opening times for opening the mouth 109 are set differently. For example, the opening time per round is 30 seconds for the above probability variation jackpot and normal jackpot. On the other hand, for the latent big hit, the open time per round is 0.1 seconds.

  In general, in pachinko machines, when there are multiple types of jackpots with different numbers of rounds, for example, a predetermined lamp (hereinafter referred to as “round number notification lamp”) is turned on at the time of winning the jackpot, and the number of winning jackpots is determined by the player. Must be notified. In the gaming machine of this embodiment, since all the jackpots have the same number of rounds as described above, it is not necessary to notify the player of the number of winning jackpot rounds. For this reason, the gaming machine according to this embodiment can eliminate the necessity of providing a round number notification lamp, and can reduce the cost in manufacturing the gaming machine.

  In addition, some recent pachinko machines have a specific loss called “small hit”. When winning the small win, the pachinko gaming machine does not shift to the big hit state, but performs the same content as the case of winning the latent big hit, for example. However, since the small hit is lost, the round number notification lamp is not turned on. Therefore, the player can easily determine whether the winning big win or the small winning is won based on whether or not the round number notification lamp is lit.

  Specifically, when the round number notification lamp is lit, the player can be determined to have won the latent big hit, and when the round number notification lamp is not lit, the player has won the small win. I was able to judge. For this reason, the player can easily determine the gaming state, and even if the latent probability changing gaming state is provided, the player cannot give the player a continuous expectation such as “may be a latent probability changing gaming state”. It was.

  Therefore, in the gaming machine of this embodiment, by not providing the round number notification lamp, by making the player indistinguishable whether the winning big win or the small winning is won, for example, the small hit Even after winning, the player can be given a sense of expectation such as “may have entered a latent probability change gaming state”, and after that, the player may have a sense of expectation such as “may be a latent probability change gaming state”. Can last.

  Also, the gaming machine of this embodiment does not allow the player to easily identify the current gaming state by making it impossible for the player to determine whether the winning big win or the small winning is won Thus, it is possible to provide the player with a way of playing such as “make the player play while guessing the current gaming state”. The gaming machine of this embodiment does not allow the player to specify the current gaming state by various effects, while suggesting the gaming state and assisting the player in estimating the gaming state.

  The probability variation gaming state 420 is a gaming state in which tulip gaming support (hereinafter referred to as “electric chew support”) provided in the start winning opening 105 is added to the above-described high probability state (big hit probability 1/28). Here, the electric chew support is, for example, by opening the start winning opening 105 larger than usual for a certain time or increasing the frequency of opening the start winning opening 105, so that the electric chew support is not provided. This is a function for increasing the chances of winning the winning prize opening 105. The probability variation gaming state 420 is continued until a predetermined probability variation termination condition is satisfied. For example, in this embodiment, winning the jackpot (that is, shifting to the jackpot state) is a probability change termination condition.

  The latent probability changing gaming state 430 is a gaming state in which electric chew support is not given to the high probability state (big hit probability 1/28). The latent probability changing gaming state 430 is continued until a predetermined latent probability changing end condition is satisfied. For example, in this embodiment, winning the jackpot (that is, shifting to the jackpot state) is the latent probability change end condition.

  The short-time gaming state 450 is a gaming state in which electric chew support is given to the low probability state (big hit probability 1/280). The short-time game state 450 is continued until a predetermined short-time end condition is satisfied. For example, in this embodiment, a predetermined number of times (for example, 100 times) symbol variation or winning a jackpot is a short-term end condition. When the short-time end condition is satisfied, the gaming machine shifts to the normal gaming state 440 or the big hit state 410.

  The normal gaming state 440 is a gaming state in which no electric chew support is given to the low probability state (big hit probability 1/280). That is, the normal gaming state 440 is not provided with the electric chew support like the latent probability changing gaming state 430, and only the jackpot probability is different. Since the jackpot probability is an internal probability of the gaming machine, the player cannot visually recognize it. Accordingly, the gaming machine performs the same effects in the normal gaming state 440 and the latent probability changing gaming state 430 (aligns the visual effects), so that the player cannot identify which gaming state is that. ing.

(Functional configuration of gaming machine)
Next, a functional configuration of the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described. FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention. 5, the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention includes a receiving unit 501, a detecting unit 502, an interlocking control unit 503, a display control unit 504, a reel control unit 505, and an operation receiving unit 506. The functions of the units 501 to 506 can be realized by the effect control unit 302.

  The receiving unit 501 receives a command transmitted from the main control unit (main control board) 301. The receiving unit 501 receives various commands transmitted from the main control unit (main control board) 301 such as a jackpot command, a reach command, and a gaming state command. The jackpot command can be a command indicating whether it is a jackpot or lose, and the contents of the instruction can be determined by a jackpot determination random number acquired at the time of starting winning. The reach command can be a command indicating the presence or absence of reach production, and the contents of the instruction can be determined by the reach random number acquired at the time of starting winning. The gaming state command can be a command indicating a gaming state, and the content of the instruction can be determined by the gaming state being executed.

  The detection unit 502 detects whether the reception unit 501 has received a command and outputs the detection result to the interlock control unit 503. When detecting that the receiving unit 501 has received a command, the detecting unit 502 determines the type of the detected command, and outputs a signal corresponding to the determined type of command to the interlock control unit 503.

  Specifically, for example, if the detection unit 502 determines that the jackpot command received by the reception unit 501 is a command indicating a jackpot, the detection unit 502 outputs a command instructing execution of the jackpot effect to the interlock control unit 503. In addition, for example, when the detection unit 502 determines that the reach command received by the receiving unit 501 is a reach command indicating the presence of the reach effect, for example, the command for instructing execution of the effect including the reach effect is controlled in conjunction with the detection command. Output to the unit 503.

  The interlock control unit 503 receives the detection result from the detection unit 502, that is, the command output from the detection unit 502, and outputs a drive control signal according to the received command to the display control unit 504 and the reel control unit 505, respectively. For example, when the interlock control unit 503 receives a command for instructing execution of the jackpot effect, the display control unit 504 outputs a signal for instructing display of the effect image in accordance with the position of the reel 203 and the stop timing of each of the small reels 203a to 203i. And a signal for instructing the reel 203 to stop at the outcome indicating the big hit.

  In addition, the interlock control unit 503 performs a predetermined lottery (for example, an after-effect production execution lottery described later) every time a command output from the detection unit 502 is received, for example. (Empty effect) is executed, and a drive control signal for a specific effect is output to the display control unit 504 and the reel control unit 505, respectively (effect execution process). With this specific performance, the interlock control unit 503 instructs the player to perform a predetermined operation.

  Thereafter, when the interlock control unit 503 receives an operation signal in accordance with the operation of the chance button 117 or the cross key 118 from the operation reception unit 506 during the execution of the specific effect (operation reception process), any of the fluctuations occurs. The reel controller 505 is driven and controlled so that a predetermined turn (for example, a turn of pattern 1 to be described later) stops in the reel 203 (small reels 203a to 203i) (design control step). On the other hand, if the interlock control unit 503 does not accept a predetermined operation during execution of a specific effect (for example, when the operation of the chance button 117 is not detected), the predetermined outcome in any reel 203 is The reel control unit 505 is drive-controlled so as to stop at a different outcome (for example, an outcome of a pattern 3 described later) (design control step).

  Then, the interlock control unit 503 selects an effect image to be displayed on the display screen after the stop of the turn from the plurality of images prepared in advance based on the stopped turn (selection step). A signal for instructing display of the effect image is output to the display control unit 504 (output control step). In addition, the interlock control unit 503 selects a sound to be output after stopping the outcome based on the stopped outcome from a plurality of voices prepared in advance, and instructs the output of the selected speech. The signal may be output to the voice control unit 355.

  For example, the interlock control unit 503 executes a press effect that instructs the player to press the eye as a specific effect. In this pressing effect, the gaming machine instructs the player to press a specific symbol (for example, cherry) among the symbols written on the reel 203. Then, when an operation from the player (for example, pressing of the chance button 117) is received during the eye-pressing effect, the gaming machine stops the reel 203 so as to indicate a predetermined outcome corresponding to the gaming state, for example.

  For example, if the gaming state is a high probability state, the predetermined outcome is an outcome in which the cherry stops at the middle small reel (that is, one of the small reels 203d, 203e, and 203f indicates the cherry). Yes (the outcome of pattern 1 described later). On the other hand, if the gaming state is a low probability state, the predetermined outcome is that the cherry stops on the upper or lower small reel (that is, the reel 203 other than the small reels 203d, 203e, 203f shows the cherry) (The outcome of pattern 2 to be described later). In this way, the predetermined outcome can be, for example, an outcome that is stopped in a state where a specific symbol (cherry) is visible to the player.

  An outcome different from the predetermined outcome (hereinafter referred to as “other outcome”) can be, for example, an outcome in which any of the small reels 203a to 203i does not show a specific symbol (cherry) (described later). Of pattern 3 to be performed). That is, in this case, the small reels 203a to 203i show a symbol (for example, a lost symbol) other than the specific symbol. In this way, the other outcomes can be, for example, outcomes that are stopped in a state where a specific symbol (cherry) is not visible to the player.

  In addition, the interlock control unit 503 may stop the predetermined outcome and then perform an effect corresponding to the stopped predetermined outcome. For example, the interlocking control unit 503 performs an effect (for example, a reach effect) that enhances the player's expectation in the event that the cherry is stopped on the middle small reels 203d, 203e, 203f. On the other hand, the interlocking control unit 503 performs a normal lose effect (no reach effect loss) when the cherry is stopped at the upper or lower small reel.

  Furthermore, the interlock control unit 503 may switch the effect mode being executed after stopping a predetermined outcome. For example, a plurality of effect modes are provided in a hierarchical manner, and the interlocking control unit 503 switches to an effect mode that enhances the player's expectation in the event that the cherry is stopped at the middle small reel. On the other hand, the interlock control unit 503 does not switch the effect mode when the cherry is stopped on the upper or lower small reel.

  The display control unit 504 receives the signal output from the interlock control unit 503, and controls the display unit 104 so that the effect image according to the received signal is displayed on the display unit 104. The display control unit 504 controls the display unit 104 so that an effect image in accordance with the rotation state and stop timing of each of the small reels 203a to 203i is displayed on the display unit 104. The display unit 104 operates according to the control of the display control unit 504.

  The display control unit 504 of this embodiment controls the transmittance of the display unit 104 so that all or a part of the reel 203 can be viewed through the display unit 104, and all of the reels 203 that can be viewed through the display unit 104. Alternatively, an image that seems to stop or suppress a part of the rotation is displayed on the reel 203 on the display unit 104. Alternatively, the display control unit 504 may display an image that appears to stop or suppress the rotation of all or part of the reel 203 that can be seen through in the vicinity of the reel 203.

  The reel control unit 505 receives the signal output from the interlock control unit 503, and controls the rotation operation of the small reels 203a to 203i in the reel 203 according to the received signal. Specifically, the reel control unit 505 controls the rotation operation of each of the small reels 203a to 203i by giving a pulse signal to a motor provided for each of the small reels 203a to 203i, for example.

  The reel control unit 505 controls the rotation operation of each of the small reels 203a to 203i so that the small reels 203a to 203i stop in a predetermined order after all the small reels 203a to 203i are simultaneously rotated. . The symbol indicated by the reel 203 when all the small reels 203a to 203i are stopped is, for example, a symbol determined based on the determination result of the jackpot determination. In addition, the reel control unit 505 controls the rotation operation of each of the small reels 203a to 203i so that the small reels 203a to 203i rotate in a predetermined rotation direction at a predetermined rotation speed. The reel 203 operates according to the control of the reel control unit 505.

  Control of the display control unit 504 and the reel control unit 505 is not limited to that performed via the interlock control unit 503. For example, when the presentation only is performed, the display control unit 504 may control the display unit 104 alone. Further, for example, when the production is performed only by the fluctuation of the reel 203, the reel control unit 505 may control the rotation operation of the reel 203 independently.

  Further, in this embodiment, the physical reel 203 is used to represent the outcome with the symbols written on the reel 203, but the present invention is not limited to this. Various outcomes may be represented by pseudo reels using computer graphics. In this case, for example, the display control unit 504 displays three rows of symbol images so as to move from the top to the bottom of the display unit 104, and then stops and displays these symbol images to indicate the outcome. In this case, the reel control unit 505 and the reel 203 are not necessary.

(Outline of effects performed by the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention)
Next, an outline of effects performed by the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described. First, the gaming machine executes a press effect that instructs the player to press the player. In this pressing effect, the gaming machine instructs the player to press a specific symbol (for example, cherry) among the symbols written on the reel 203.

  The timing for executing the eye-drawing effect can be set, for example, when a predetermined lottery (eye-drawing effect execution lottery) is performed every time the symbol is changed once and the lottery is won. Further, the timing for executing the eye effect may be, for example, when the symbol has been changed a specified number of times after the previous eye effect, and can be arbitrarily set by the manufacturer of the gaming machine. In addition, the predetermined operation received during the eye-pressing effect can be, for example, pressing the chance button 117. Further, the predetermined operation may be input of a predetermined command using the cross key 118, for example, and can be arbitrarily set by the manufacturer of the gaming machine.

  When the gaming machine executes the eye-promotion effect, the gaming machine stops the small reels related to the eye-promotion effect among the small reels 203a to 203i as the eye-promotion effect progresses. In this embodiment, as an example, the small reels related to the press effect are small reels 203c, 203f, and 203i. The small reels 203c, 203f, and 203i related to the eye pressing effect are stopped so as to show a predetermined outcome corresponding to the gaming state, for example, when the chance button 117 is operated during the eye pressing effect. Further, the small reels 203c, 203f, 203i are stopped so as to show an outcome different from the above-described predetermined outcome, for example, when the chance button 117 is not operated for a predetermined period from the start of the eye-pressing effect. . Specific examples of the predetermined outcome will be shown below.

  6-1 is explanatory drawing (the 1) which shows the content of the outcome which the game machine of embodiment concerning this invention stops. 6-2 is explanatory drawing (the 2) which shows the content of the outcome which the game machine of embodiment concerning this invention stops. 6-3 is explanatory drawing (the 3) which shows the content of the outcome which the game machine of embodiment concerning this invention stops.

(1-1. When there is a chance button operation and there is a high probability state)
If the chance button 117 is operated during the direction effect and the gaming state is in a high probability state, the gaming machine stops the small reel 203f representing a cherry as a predetermined outcome. In addition, the gaming machine stops so that the other small reels 203c and the small reels 203i related to the press effect represent symbols other than cherry. Therefore, in this case, of the small reels 203c, 203f, and 203i related to the press effect, only the middle small reel 203f shows a cherry (see FIG. 6A. "

(1-2. When there is a chance button operation and it is in a low probability state)
When the chance button 117 is operated during the stage effect, and the gaming state is in a low probability state, the gaming machine stops as a predetermined result so that either the small reel 203c or the small reel 203i represents a cherry. . In addition, the gaming machine stops so that the other small reels 203f related to the directing effect represent symbols other than cherry. Therefore, in this case, of the small reels 203c, 203f, and 203i related to the push effect, only the upper small reel 203c or the lower small reel 203i represents the cherry (see FIG. 6-2, hereinafter this). The outcome is called “Pattern 2 outcome”).

(1-3. When there is no chance button operation)
When the chance button 117 is not operated during the press effect, the gaming machine stops the small reels 203c, 203f, and 203i so as to represent symbols other than the cherry regardless of the gaming state. Therefore, in this case, none of the small reels 203c, 203f, 203i related to the eye-promotion effect will show a cherry (refer to FIG. 6-3, hereinafter, this output is referred to as “pattern 3 output”). .

  The predetermined outcome is not limited to the above example, and may be an outcome arbitrarily set by the manufacturer of the gaming machine, for example, if the outcome is different between the high probability state and the low probability state. Note that the other small reels 203a, 203b, 203d, 203e, 203g, and 203h that are not related to the eye-catching effect are not limited to the illustrated example, and may be arbitrary symbols.

  In addition, after stopping the outcome of pattern 1, the outcome of pattern 2, or the outcome of pattern 3 in the push effect, the gaming machine selects an effect image corresponding to the stopped outcome. The effect image is displayed on the display screen of the display unit 104. A specific example of the effect image displayed on the display screen when the outcome of each pattern is stopped is shown below.

  7-1 is explanatory drawing (the 1) which shows an example of the effect image which the game machine of embodiment concerning this invention displays. 7-2 is explanatory drawing (the 2) which shows an example of the effect image which the gaming machine of embodiment concerning this invention displays.

(2-1. When the outcome of pattern 1 or pattern 2 is stopped)
As shown in FIG. 7-1, when the outcome of pattern 1 or pattern 2 is stopped by the press effect, the gaming machine lowers the brightness of the entire display screen 700 of the display unit 104 (for example, lowers the transmittance). Then, the effect image of pattern 1 is displayed with the entire reel 203 invisible to the player. The effect image of pattern 1 is, for example, an image that can enhance the player's expectation (“chance!” Message in the illustrated example).

(2-2. When the outcome of pattern 3 is stopped)
As shown in FIG. 7-2, when the outcome of pattern 3 is stopped by the eye-opening effect, the gaming machine lowers the brightness of the entire display screen 700 of the display unit 104, for example, as described above (transmittance). And the effect image of pattern 2 is displayed with the entire reel 203 invisible to the player. The effect image of pattern 2 is, for example, an image that can reduce the player's expectation (a message of “sorry” in the illustrated example).

  In addition, when the outcome of the pattern 1 or the pattern 2 is stopped by the press effect, the gaming machine selects the sound of the pattern 1 (for example, a gorgeous fanfare sound) and displays the effect image of the pattern 1 described above. In accordance with the above, the sound of the pattern 1 may be output from the speaker 377. Further, the gaming machine may select the sound of the pattern 1 instead of the effect image of the pattern 1 and output the sound of the pattern 1 from the speaker 377.

  Similarly, when the outcome of pattern 3 is stopped by the press effect, the gaming machine selects the sound of pattern 2 (for example, a sad organ sound) and displays the effect image of pattern 2 above. In addition, the sound of pattern 2 may be output from the speaker 377. In addition, the gaming machine may select the sound of pattern 2 instead of the effect image of pattern 2 and output the sound of pattern 1 from the speaker 377.

  In the specific example described above, when the outcome of pattern 1 or the outcome of pattern 2 is stopped, the effect image of pattern 1 or the sound of pattern 1 is output, and the outcome of pattern 3 is stopped. Although the effect image of pattern 2 and the sound of pattern 2 are output, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, when the outcome of pattern 1 is stopped, the effect image of pattern 1 and the sound of pattern 1 are output, and when the outcome of pattern 2 or the outcome of pattern 3 is stopped, the effect image of pattern 2 Or the sound of pattern 2 may be output. Further, different effect images and sounds may be output for each of the pattern patterns.

(Processing procedure of gaming machine of embodiment)
Next, the processing procedure of the gaming machine at the time of the above-mentioned effect of making a full-length effect will be described. FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure of the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention. The processing shown in FIG. 8 is executed by the effect control unit (effect control board) 302 in a state where the power of the gaming machine is turned on, a predetermined start-up process and the like are finished, and a normal game can be performed. The effect control unit 302 performs the process shown in FIG. 8 immediately before the reel 203 is rotated once in order to notify the player of the determination result of the jackpot determination for the start winning, for example.

  In the flowchart shown in FIG. 8, first, the effect control unit 302 performs a lottery effect execution lottery for determining whether or not to execute the eye press effect (step S801). In step S801, the effect control unit 302 performs a lottery effect execution lottery based on, for example, a predetermined randomness for lottery execution execution lottery acquired immediately before the lottery effect execution lottery and the table for lottery execution execution lottery. . At this time, if the value of the random number for the lottery effect execution lottery is a predetermined value, it is assumed that the marginal effect is executed.

  Subsequently, the effect control unit 302 determines whether or not to execute the press effect (step S802). If the eye-pushing effect is not executed (step S802: No), the effect control unit 302 ends the series of processes as it is. When executing the eye-push effect (step S802: Yes), the effect control unit 302 starts the eye-push effect (step S803) and determines whether the operation of the chance button 117 is accepted (step S804).

  When the operation of the chance button 117 is accepted (step S804: Yes), the effect control unit 302 determines whether or not the current gaming state is a high probability state based on the gaming state command (step S805). . When it is in the high probability state (step S805: Yes), the effect control unit 302 performs the rotation stop control of the reel 203 so as to reach the pattern 1 (step S806), and proceeds to step S808. When the state is not the high probability state (the state is the low probability state) (step S805: No), the effect control unit 302 performs the rotation stop control of the reel 203 so as to be the outcome of the pattern 2 (step S807). The process proceeds to S808.

  After step S806 or step S807, the effect control unit 302 selects an effect image of pattern 1 (step S808). Specifically, the effect control unit 302 selects the effect image of the pattern 1 by selecting image data representing the effect image of the pattern 1 from the image data stored in the ROM 342 or the like. Then, the effect control unit 302 displays the effect image of the selected pattern on the display unit 104 (step S809), and ends the series of processes.

  On the other hand, when the operation of the chance button 117 is not accepted in step S804 (step S804: No), the effect control unit 302 determines whether a predetermined period has elapsed since the start of the current eye-pressing effect ( Step S810). When the predetermined period has not elapsed (step S810: No), the effect control unit 302 proceeds to step S804.

  When the predetermined period has elapsed (step S810: Yes), the effect control unit 302 performs rotation stop control of the reel 203 so as to reach the pattern 3 (step S811), and is stored in the ROM 342 or the like. The effect image of pattern 2 is selected from the selected images (step S812), and the process proceeds to step S809. In step S812, specifically, the effect control unit 302 selects the effect image of pattern 2 by selecting image data representing the effect image of pattern 2 from the image data stored in the ROM 342 or the like. .

(Specific display example of gaming machine in the push effect of the embodiment)
Next, a specific display example of the gaming machine in the press effect of this embodiment will be described. 9-1 is explanatory drawing (the 1) which shows the specific example of a display of the gaming machine in the eye-push effect of this embodiment. 9-2 is explanatory drawing (the 2) which shows the specific example of a display of the gaming machine in the eye-push effect of this embodiment. 9-3 is explanatory drawing (the 3) which shows the specific example of a display of the gaming machine in the eye-push effect of this embodiment. 9-4 is explanatory drawing (the 4) which shows the specific example of a display of the gaming machine in the eye-push effect of this embodiment. 9-5 is explanatory drawing (the 5) which shows the specific example of a display of the gaming machine in the eye-catching effect of this embodiment. In FIGS. 9-1 to 9-5 shown below, the white down arrows in the drawings indicate that the small reels 203a to 203i are rotating.

  In FIG. 9A, the gaming machine first starts rotating the small reels 203 a to 203 i on the reel 203. Subsequently, the gaming machine executes a directing effect. When the eye-push effect is executed, the gaming machine lowers the brightness of other areas except the area 901 on the display screen 700 in the display unit 104 (lowers the transmittance). As a result, the gaming machine shields other small reels other than the small reels (203c, 203f, 203i in the illustrated example) related to the press effect, and sets the small reels 203c, 203f, 203i related to the press effect. Can stand out.

  Then, the gaming machine displays an image corresponding to the eye-opening effect on the entire display unit 104 in an area where the transmittance is low (an area other than the area 901) (FIG. 9-2). In FIG. 9-2, it is assumed that the effect is a pressing effect that causes the player to press a specific symbol “Cherry”, and “Cherry Chance!” Is displayed in order to make the player aim “Cherry”.

  Thereafter, when an operation is accepted by the chance button 117, the gaming machine stops the small reels 203c, 203f, 203i related to the press effect with the predetermined outcome described above (FIG. 9-3). For example, FIG. 9-3 shows an example where the gaming state is a high probability state, and the outcome of pattern 1 is stopped. Although illustration is omitted, if the gaming state is a low probability state, the outcome of pattern 2 is stopped at this time.

  When the small reels 203c, 203f, 203i related to the eye-push effect are stopped, the gaming machine subsequently displays an effect image corresponding to the stopped appearance on the display unit 104. As described above, when the outcome of pattern 1 or pattern 2 is stopped due to the press effect, the gaming machine lowers the brightness of the entire display screen 700 of the display unit 104 (lowers the transmittance), for example, and reels The entire image 203 is made invisible to the player, and an effect image of pattern 1 is displayed (see FIG. 7-1). At this time, the gaming machine may also output the sound of pattern 1 from the speaker 377.

  On the other hand, if the operation is not accepted by the chance button 117, the gaming machine stops the small reels 203c, 203f, and 203i related to the pressing effect at the outcome of the pattern 3 described above (FIG. 9-4). . As described above, when the outcome of pattern 3 is stopped due to the press effect, the gaming machine, for example, reduces the brightness of the entire display screen 700 of the display unit 104 (lowers the transmittance) and removes the entire reel 203. The effect image of pattern 2 is displayed in a state invisible to the player (see FIG. 7-2). At this time, the gaming machine may also output the sound of pattern 2 from the speaker 377.

  After displaying the effect image of pattern 1 or the effect image of pattern 2 on the display unit 104, the gaming machine, for example, based on the determination result of the jackpot determination performed immediately before the start of rotation of each of the small reels 203a to 203i, The reels 203a, 203b, 203d, 203e, 203g, and 203h are also stopped sequentially, and a series of effects are finished (FIG. 9-5). For example, if the determination result of jackpot determination is a jackpot, the gaming machine is stopped so that three identical “7” symbols are aligned on the active line.

  Also, at this time, the gaming machine makes the stopped small reels 203a to 203i stand out, for example, by increasing the lightness (increasing the transmittance) of the portion overlapping the stopped (or stopped) small reels 203a to 203i. Such an image may be displayed. Further, for example, the lightness of the portion overlapping with the reel 203 (small reels 203a to 203i) for which the losing symbol has already been determined is lowered (ie, the transmittance is lowered), so that the small reels 203a to 203i for which the losing symbol has been determined are not conspicuous. Such an image may be displayed.

  As described above, according to the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention, the outcome (the outcome of pattern 1 or the outcome of pattern 2) when the operation is accepted during the eye-catching effect, The outcome when no operation is accepted during the push effect (the outcome of pattern 3) can be made different. Thereby, the gaming machine according to this embodiment can notify the player of how the operation of the chance button 117 is reflected in the production, and the player's consciousness of participation in the game can be noticed. Can be increased. Therefore, the gaming machine can make the player actively participate in the game, and can entertain the game without boring the player who plays for a long time.

  Further, according to the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention, the effect image to be displayed after stopping the turn can be made different according to the stopped turn. As a result, the gaming machine according to this embodiment has a game that clearly shows how the operation of the chance button 117 is reflected in the effect by using the outcome and the effect image as compared to the case of only the outcome. Can be notified to the player, and the player's awareness of participation in the game can be increased. Therefore, the gaming machine can make the player actively participate in the game, and can entertain the game without boring the player who plays for a long time.

  Specifically, for example, when the outcome of pattern 1 or the outcome of pattern 2 (the outcome that is stopped when the chance button 117 is operated) is stopped, the gaming machine enhances the player's expectation. The effect image of pattern 1 to be displayed is displayed on the display unit 104 after stopping the turn. On the other hand, for example, when the game machine stops the outcome of pattern 3 (the outcome that is stopped when the chance button 117 is not operated), the gaming machine has a pattern 2 that reduces the player's expectation. The effect image is displayed on the display unit 104 after stopping the appearance.

  As a result, the gaming machine can give the player a sense of expectation when the chance button 117 is operated compared to when the chance button 117 is not operated. Can raise awareness of participation. Therefore, the gaming machine can make the player actively participate in the game, and can entertain the game without boring the player who plays for a long time.

  In the embodiment described above, the predetermined outcome (the outcome of pattern 1 and the outcome of pattern 2) is uniquely determined according to the gaming state, but is not limited thereto. For example, a gaming machine performs a lottery (hereinafter referred to as “outgoing pattern lottery”) to stop either the outcome of pattern 1 or the outcome of pattern 2 in the case of a directing effect, and based on this lottery result The pattern 1 or the pattern 2 may be stopped.

  At this time, in the outcome pattern lottery, an outcome lottery table that defines the winning probability for each outcome pattern is used. Specifically, for example, this outcome lottery table is provided with a high probability outcome lottery table and a low probability outcome lottery table, and the gaming machine is high when the gaming state is in a high probability state. A lottery pattern lottery is performed using the probability lottery table for probability. In the high-probability outcome lottery table, the winning probability for the outcome of pattern 1 is set higher than the winning probability for the outcome of pattern 2.

  On the other hand, when the gaming state is in a low probability state, the gaming machine performs a lottery pattern lottery using the low probability round lottery table. In this low-probability outcome lottery table, the winning probability for the outcome of pattern 2 is set higher than the winning probability for the outcome of pattern 1.

  Therefore, in this case, in the gaming machine, the tendency of the predetermined outcome to be stopped at the time of the presentation effect varies depending on the gaming state. Specifically, in gaming machines, the outcome of pattern 1 tends to stop if it is in a high probability state, and the outcome of pattern 2 tends to stop if it is in a low probability state. For this reason, the gaming machine can suggest a gaming state to the player based on the tendency of this appearance, giving the player a sense of expectation for the next jackpot, and encouraging the player to participate in the game. Can be raised.

  As described above, according to the production method of the gaming machine according to the present invention, how the predetermined operation is reflected in the production by the output that is stopped in the specific production and the image corresponding to the game. Can be clearly notified to the player, and the player's consciousness of participating in the game can be increased, so that the game can be enjoyed without boring the player who plays for a long time.

  Note that the game machine production method described in the above embodiment can be realized by executing a program prepared in advance on a computer such as a personal computer or a workstation. This program is recorded on a computer-readable recording medium such as a hard disk, a flexible disk, a CD-ROM, an MO, and a DVD, and is executed by being read from the recording medium by the computer. The program may be a medium that can be distributed via a network such as the Internet.

104 Display Unit 201 Liquid Crystal Display Panel 202 Liquid Crystal Shutter 203 Reel (Reel)
301 Main Control Unit 302 Effect Control Unit 303 Prize Ball Control Unit 501 Reception Unit 502 Detection Unit 503 Interlocking Control Unit 504 Display Control Unit 505 Reel Control Unit 506 Operation Accepting Unit

Claims (4)

An effect execution step of executing a specific effect that can accept a predetermined operation by the player;
An operation receiving step for receiving the predetermined operation during execution of the specific performance;
When the predetermined operation is received by the operation receiving step, the predetermined reel among the plurality of changing reels is stopped at a predetermined output indicating a specific symbol, and the predetermined operation is not received. In the case, the symbol control process of stopping at an outcome different from the predetermined outcome,
A selection step of selecting an image to be displayed on the display screen after stopping the outcome based on the outcome stopped by the symbol control step, from a plurality of images prepared in advance,
An output control step of displaying the image selected in the selection step on the display screen;
Only including,
The production execution step includes:
An effect method for a gaming machine characterized in that the specific effect is made such that the player can visually recognize the predetermined reel and the player other than the predetermined reel is difficult to visually recognize. . The selection step selects a sound to be output after stopping the outcome based on the outcome stopped by the symbol control step, from a plurality of voices prepared in advance,
2. The game machine rendering method according to claim 1, wherein the output control step outputs the sound selected in the selection step. 3. The game machine effect method according to claim 1, wherein in the effect execution step, the specific effect is executed by displaying the plurality of reels on a display screen. A lottery processing step of performing a lottery for determining the predetermined outcome using a lottery table that determines a winning probability for each outcome pattern when the predetermined operation is received;
In the lottery processing step, a lottery is performed using a lottery table with different winning probabilities for each of the outcome patterns in a low probability gaming state and a high probability gaming state,
The game design method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the symbol control step stops the number indicated by the number pattern drawn in the lottery processing step.

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