JP5887686B2 - Amusement stand - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a game table represented by a ball game machine (pachinko machine) and a spinning machine (slot machine).

  Conventionally, for example, a slot machine is known as one of game machines. This slot machine uses a specified number of medals, rotates the main reel when the start lever is operated, determines the role internally by internal lottery, and stops the main reel by operating the stop button. , A combination is established when a combination of symbols determined in advance is displayed on the symbol display window according to the internally determined combination, and a combination with formation of a medal is established. The prescribed number of medals is awarded.

  As such a gaming machine, there is a gaming machine that notifies the operation order of stop buttons for deriving a stopping mode advantageous to a player (for example, Patent Document 1). In addition to such game tables, there are many game tables that provide notifications regarding the operation of the stop buttons, such as the operation timing of the stop buttons for deriving an advantageous stop mode for the player, and alerting regarding the operation of the stop buttons. .

Japanese Patent No. 4785212

  However, for a player who has experienced such notifications several times, such notifications are no longer novel, and there is a risk that the concentration on the game will be reduced. In such a situation, the player is likely to make an operation mistake, which may be disadvantageous.

  Therefore, the present invention has been made in view of such a problem, and an object thereof is to provide a game table capable of suppressing a decrease in concentration on a game while notifying a stop button operation. .

In order to solve the above-mentioned problem,
A plurality of reels that are subjected to multiple types of designs and are driven to rotate,
Start operation means operated to start rotation of the plurality of reels;
Stop operation means operated to individually stop the plurality of rotating reels;
Lottery means;
Stop control means for executing control for stopping the plurality of rotating reels based on the result of the lottery by the lottery means and the result of the operation on the stop operation means;
Directing means;
Production control means for controlling the production means;
A game table that starts a game based on the operation of the start operation means, and gives a profit according to the mode of the plurality of reels stopped in the started game,
The production control means includes
Each of the first effect relating to the operation of the stop operation means and the second effect relating to the privilege for facilitating the acquisition of the profit is after the game has started and before the operation on the stop operation means becomes effective. To start with
In a specific case that is at least a part of cases where both the first effect and the second effect are performed, the second effect is started after the first effect is started. Let
In the specific case, the first effect is continuously performed even after the second effect is started.

  According to this game table, it is possible to suppress a decrease in concentration on the game while performing notification regarding the operation of the stop button.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a gaming table that suppresses a decrease in concentration on a game and is less prone to operational errors.

FIG. 3 is an external perspective view of the slot machine 100 as viewed from the front side (player side). It is a figure which shows an example of a winning line. It is a circuit block diagram of a control part. It is a figure which expands and shows the arrangement of the design given to each reel in plane. It is a figure which shows the kind of winning combination (including an operating combination), the symbol combination corresponding to each winning combination, and the operation or payout of each winning combination. FIG. 3 is a transition diagram of the gaming state of the slot machine 100. FIG. It is a figure which shows the lottery table of the winning combination in each game state. It is a figure which shows the outline | summary of a stepping motor. It is the 1st figure in all the 2 figures which shows the excitation switching pattern corresponding to the state of reel control with a table | surface. It is the 2nd figure in all the 2 figures which shows the excitation switching pattern corresponding to the state of reel control with a table | surface. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of a main control part main process. 12 is a flowchart showing a flow of a winning combination internal lottery process (step S109) shown in FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing a flow of reel rotation start processing (step S113) shown in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the effect rotation execution process (step S1111) shown in FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing a flow of a reel stop control process (step S115) shown in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the winning determination process (step S117) shown in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of a main control part timer interruption process. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the various game processes (step S207) shown in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the reel control processing (step S2003) shown in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the stop button reception process (step S2103) shown in FIG. FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing a flow of each reel control process (step S2107) corresponding to the reel control state shown in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the acceleration control process (step S2303) shown in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the constant speed control process (step S2307) shown in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the drawing-in control processing (step S2311) shown in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the brake control process (step S2315) shown in FIG. (A) is a flowchart showing the flow of the symbol position update process (step S2407 in FIG. 22, step S2503 in FIG. 23, step S2603 in FIG. 24) shown in FIG. 22, FIG. 23, and FIG. These are flowcharts which show the flow of the symbol position initialization process (step S2507 of FIG. 23) shown in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the effect rotation control process (step S2319) shown in FIG. (A) is a flowchart of the main process which CPU404 of the 1st sub control part 400 performs, (b) is a flowchart of the process at the time of command reception of (a), (c) is 1st sub control. 4 is a flowchart of timer interrupt processing of a unit 400. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the presentation control process (step S309) shown to Fig.28 (a). It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the process at the time of internal winning command reception shown in FIG. 29 (step S3003). It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the setting process (step S3101) of the production data regarding the interlocking production shown in FIG. (A) is a flowchart showing the flow of the effect rotation start command reception process (step S3007) shown in FIG. 29, and (b) is the flow of the effect rotation end command reception process (step S3011) shown in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows. (A) is a flowchart of main processing executed by the CPU 504 of the second sub-control unit 500, (b) is a flowchart of command reception interrupt processing of the second sub-control unit 500, and (c) is 5 is a flowchart of timer interrupt processing of the second sub-control unit 500, and (d) is a flowchart of image control processing of the second sub-control unit 500. It is a figure which shows an example of the effect performed in this embodiment. FIG. 35 is a diagram showing an example of an effect in a situation different from FIG. It is a figure which shows an example of a reverse effect and an interlocking effect. It is a figure which shows an example of the reverse rotation effect and the interlocking effect in the case where the operation order suggestion effect is executed. (A) is a figure which shows the example of execution of a 1st effect and a 2nd effect, (b) is a figure which shows the example which performs a 1st effect after completion | finish of a 2nd effect. It is a figure which shows the relationship between the value of a game space | interval counter, a 1st effect, and a 2nd effect.

  Hereinafter, a slot machine according to an embodiment of a gaming machine of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

  The slot machine of this embodiment described below starts rotating when a predetermined number of game media are inserted and a plurality of reels each having a plurality of types of symbols receive a predetermined rotation start instruction operation. At the same time, it is determined by lottery whether or not the internal winning of a plurality of types of roles is won based on receiving the rotation start instruction operation, and each of the reels individually rotates by receiving a predetermined rotation stop instruction operation. If the conditions determined by the combination based on the result of the lottery and the combination of symbols when the reels stop meet the predetermined payout conditions, the game medium is paid out and the game ends. This is a game machine that advances a series of games that are completed without paying out game media.

  First, the basic configuration of the slot machine 100 will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2. FIG. 1 is an external perspective view of the slot machine 100 as viewed from the front side (player side). FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a winning line.

  A slot machine 100 shown in FIG. 1 corresponds to an example of a game machine according to the present invention, and includes a main body 101 and a front door 102 that is attached to the front surface of the main body 101 and can be opened and closed with respect to the main body 101. . Inside the center of the main body 101 (not shown), three reels (left reel 110, middle reel 111, right reel 112) having a plurality of types of symbols arranged on the outer peripheral surface are stored and rotated inside the slot machine 100. It is configured to be able to. These reels 110 to 112 are rotationally driven by a driving device such as a stepping motor.

  In the present embodiment, an appropriate number of symbols are printed on the belt-like member at equal intervals, and the reels 110 to 112 are configured by affixing the belt-like member to a predetermined circular cylindrical frame member. When viewed from the player, the symbols on the reels 110 to 112 are generally displayed three in the vertical direction from the symbol display window 113 so that a total of nine symbols can be seen. Specifically, referring to FIG. 2, the symbols displayed on the upper stage of the left reel 110 (position 1 shown in the figure) are displayed on the upper stage of the left reel 110 and the middle stage of the left reel 110 (position 2 shown in the figure). The symbol to be displayed is displayed in the middle stage of the left reel, the symbol displayed in the lower stage of the left reel 110 (position 3 in the figure), the symbol displayed in the lower stage of the left reel, and the upper stage of the middle reel 111 (position 4 in the figure). The symbol displayed on the middle reel upper symbol, the symbol displayed on the middle of the left reel 111 (position 5 in the figure) is the middle reel middle symbol, and the symbol displayed on the lower part of the middle reel 111 (position 6 in the figure). The symbol displayed on the lower stage of the middle reel, the upper stage of the right reel 112 (position 7 in the figure) is the upper stage of the right reel, and the picture displayed on the middle stage of the right reel 112 (position 8 in the figure) is the right reel. Middle design, bottom of right reel 112 (in the figure The symbol displayed at the position 9) is called the right reel lower symbol, and the symbols of the reels 110 to 112 are three in the vertical direction on the reels 110 to 112 through the symbol display window 113, for a total of nine symbols. Is displayed. Then, by rotating the reels 110 to 112, the combination of symbols that can be seen by the player varies. That is, each of the reels 110 to 112 functions as a display device that displays a combination of a plurality of types of symbols in a variable manner. In addition to the reel, an electronic image display device such as a liquid crystal display device can also be used as such a display device. In this embodiment, three reels are provided in the center of the slot machine 100. However, the number of reels and the installation position of the reels are not limited to this.

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

  The winning line display lamp 120 is a lamp indicating the winning line 114 that is valid. The winning line is a line for determining whether or not a symbol combination corresponding to a winning combination described in FIG. 5 described later is displayed.

  In the present embodiment, the middle reel winning line L1 composed of the left reel middle symbol, the middle reel middle symbol and the right reel middle symbol, the left reel upper symbol, the middle reel middle symbol and the right reel lower symbol line L2 comprised of the right reel lower symbol. 4 of the left reel lower symbol, the middle reel middle symbol and the right reel upper symbol L3, the left reel lower symbol, the left reel lower symbol, the middle reel lower symbol and the right reel lower symbol L4. There are two winning lines. FIG. 2 shows these winning lines. A valid pay line (hereinafter sometimes simply referred to as “valid line”) is determined in advance by the number of medals bet as a game medium. The slot machine 100 according to the present embodiment is a three-wager dedicated machine, and any winning line is not effective when the number of inserted medals is less than three, and all winning lines L1 when three medals are bet. ~ L4 becomes effective. When the winning line becomes valid, the game can be started by operating the start lever 135. The number of winning lines is not limited to 4 lines. For example, three middle winning lines L1, right falling winning lines L2, and right rising winning lines L3 may be set as valid winning lines, or the number of winning lines corresponding to the number of bets is set as effective winning lines. May be.

  For example, the notification lamp 123 indicates that a specific winning combination (specifically, a special combination 1 and a special combination 2) is won internally in an internal lottery described later, or is in a special gaming state described later. It is a lamp to inform the person. The game medal insertable lamp 124 is a lamp for notifying that the player can insert a game medal. The replay lamp 122 indicates that the current game can be replayed when a replaying role (details will be described later), which is one of the winning combinations in the previous game, can be replayed (no medal insertion is required). This is a lamp that informs the player. The reel panel lamp 128 is an effect lamp.

  The bet buttons 130 to 132 are buttons for inserting a predetermined number of medals (referred to as credits) stored electronically in the slot machine 100. In the present embodiment, each time the bet button 130 is pressed, one sheet is inserted. When the bet button 131 is pressed, two sheets are inserted. When the bet button 132 is pressed, three sheets are inserted. ing. Hereinafter, the bet button 132 is also referred to as a MAX bet button. The game medal insertion lamp 129 lights up the number of lamps corresponding to the number of inserted medals, and when a prescribed number of medals are inserted, the game start is informed that the game can be started. The lamp 121 is turned on.

  The medal slot 141 is an slot for a player to insert a medal when starting a game. That is, the medal can be inserted electronically by the bet buttons 130 to 132, or an actual medal can be inserted (insertion operation) from the medal insertion slot 141. is there.

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

  The start lever 135 is a lever type switch for starting the rotation of the reels 110 to 112. That is, when a desired medal number is inserted into the medal insertion slot 141 or when the bet buttons 130 to 132 are operated and the start lever 135 is operated, the reels 110 to 112 start to rotate. The operation on the start lever 135 is referred to as a game start operation. The start lever 135 corresponds to an example of a start operation unit of the present invention.

  The stop button unit 136 is provided with stop buttons 137 to 139 including a left stop button 137, a middle stop button 138, and a right stop button 139. The stop buttons 137 to 139 are button-type switches for individually stopping the reels 110 to 112 that have started rotating by operating the start lever 135, and are associated with the reels 110 to 112. More specifically, the left reel 110 can be stopped by operating the left stop button 137, the middle reel 111 can be stopped by operating the middle stop button 138, and the right stop button 139 can be The right reel 112 can be stopped by operating. Hereinafter, the operation on the stop buttons 137 to 139 is referred to as a stop operation, the first stop operation is referred to as a first stop operation, the next stop operation is referred to as a second stop operation, and the last stop operation is referred to as a third stop operation. In addition, reels that are stopped in response to these stop operations are sequentially referred to as a first stop reel, a second stop reel, and a third stop reel. Further, the order of stopping the stop buttons 137 to 139 in order to stop all the reels 110 to 112 being rotated is referred to as an operation order or a pressing order. Furthermore, the operation sequence in which the first stop operation is the stop operation of the left reel 110 is called “forward press operation sequence” or simply “forward press”, and the stop operation in which the first stop operation is the stop operation of the right reel 112 is “ This is called “reverse pressing operation sequence” or simply “reverse pressing”. Note that a light emitter may be provided inside each stop button 137 to 139, and when the stop button 137 to 139 can be operated, the light emitter may be turned on to notify the player. The stop buttons 137 to 139 correspond to an example of stop operation means in the present invention.

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

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

  The sound hole 145 is a hole for outputting the sound of a speaker provided inside the slot machine 100 to the outside. The side lamps 144 provided on the left and right portions of the front door 102 are decorative lamps for exciting games. An effect device 160 is disposed above the front door 102, and a sound hole 143 is provided above the effect device 160. The effect device 160 includes a shutter (shielding device) 163 including two right shutters 163a and a left shutter 163b that can be opened and closed in a horizontal direction, and a liquid crystal display device 157 (effect image) disposed on the back side of the shutter 163. And a display screen of the liquid crystal display device 157 appears on the front side (player side) of the slot machine 100 when the right shutter 163a and the left shutter 163b are opened horizontally outward in front of the liquid crystal display device 157. It has become. It should be noted that the display device is not limited to a liquid crystal display device, but may be any display device capable of displaying various effect images and various game information. For example, a multi-segment display (7-segment display), a dot matrix display, an organic EL display, a plasma display , A reel (drum), or a display device including a projector and a screen. Further, the display screen has a rectangular shape and is configured so that the player can visually recognize the entire display screen. In the case of this embodiment, the display screen is rectangular, but may be square. In addition, a decorative object (not shown) may be provided on the periphery of the display screen, and a part of the peripheral edge of the display screen may be hidden by the decorative object, so that the display screen looks irregular. In the present embodiment, the display screen is a flat surface, but may be a curved surface. This liquid crystal display device 157 corresponds to an example of the rendering means of the present invention.

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

  The control unit of the slot machine 100 can be broadly divided into main effects according to a main control unit 300 that controls the progress of the game and a command signal (hereinafter simply referred to as “command”) transmitted by the main control unit 300. And a second sub-control unit 500 that controls various devices based on a command transmitted from the first sub-control unit 400. The main control unit 300 described below corresponds to an example of a lottery unit and a stop control unit of the present invention. The combination of the first sub control unit 400 and the second sub control unit 500 corresponds to an example of the effect control means of the present invention.

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

  The main control unit 300 includes a random number generation circuit 316 that is used as a hardware random number counter that changes a numerical value in a range of 0 to 65535 based on a clock signal input from the crystal oscillator 315a, and an activation signal when the power is turned on. The CPU 304 includes a start signal output circuit 338 that outputs a (reset signal), and when the start signal is input from the start signal output circuit 338, the CPU 304 starts game control (main control unit main processing described later). Start).

  Further, the main control unit 300 includes a sensor circuit 320, and the CPU 304 inserts various sensors 318 (a bet button 130 sensor, a bet button 131 sensor, a bet button 132 sensor, and a medal insertion slot 141 every interruption time). Medal acceptance sensor, start lever 135 sensor, left stop button 137 sensor, middle stop button 138 sensor, right stop button 139 sensor, checkout button 134 sensor, medal payout sensor for medals paid out from the medal payout device 180, left reel 110 The index sensor of the middle reel 111, the index sensor of the right reel 112, etc.).

  When the sensor circuit 320 detects the H level of the start lever sensor, a signal indicating this detection is output to the random number generation circuit 316. Receiving this signal, the random number generation circuit 316 latches the value at that timing and stores it in a register that stores the random value used for the lottery.

  Two medal acceptance sensors are installed in the internal passage of the medal insertion slot 141 and detect whether or not a medal has passed. Two start lever 135 sensors are installed inside the start lever 135 and detect a start operation by the player. The left stop button 137 sensor, the middle stop button 138 sensor, and the right stop button 139 sensor are installed in the corresponding stop buttons 137 to 139, respectively, and detect the operation of the stop button by the player.

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

  The index sensor of the left reel 110, the index sensor of the middle reel 111, and the index sensor of the right reel 112 are installed at predetermined positions on the mounting bases of the reels 110 to 112, and light shielding pieces provided on the reel frame pass therethrough. Each time you do it, it goes to L level. Rotational position information indicating how much the reel is rotating from the reference position from once to the L level is calculated based on the value obtained by counting the clock signals output from the crystal oscillator 315b. Is done. When the CPU 304 detects the L level signal, the CPU 304 determines that the reel has made one rotation and resets the rotational position information of the reel to zero. This rotational position information is stored in the RAM 308 of the main control unit 300.

  The main control unit 300 is provided in a drive circuit 322 for driving a stepping motor provided in the reel devices 110 to 112, a drive circuit 324 for driving a solenoid provided in a medal selector 170 for selecting inserted medals, and a medal payout device 180. A driving circuit 326 for driving the motor, various lamps 339 (a winning line display lamp 120, a notification lamp 123, a game medal insertion possible lamp 124, a re-game lamp 122, a game medal insertion lamp 129, a game start lamp 121, and a stored number display. A driving circuit 328 for driving the device 125, the game information display 126, and the payout number display 127).

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

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

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

<Sub control unit>
Next, the first sub control unit 400 of the slot machine 100 will be described. The first sub control unit 400 receives the control command transmitted from the main control unit 300 via the input interface. The first sub-control unit 400 includes a basic circuit 402 that controls the entire first sub-control unit 400 based on the control command. The basic circuit 402 stores data temporarily with the CPU 404. RAM 408, I / O 410 for controlling input / output of various devices, and a counter timer 412 for measuring time and number of times are mounted. The CPU 404 of the basic circuit 402 operates by inputting a clock signal of a predetermined period output from the crystal oscillator 414 as a system clock. The ROM 406 stores a control program and data for controlling the entire first sub-control unit 400, a backlight lighting pattern, data for controlling various displays, and the like.

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

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

  The first sub-control unit 400 is provided with a drive circuit 422, and various kinds of lamps 420 (upper lamp, lower lamp, side lamp 144, title panel 162 lamp, bet button lamp, etc.) are connected to the drive circuit 422 via an input / output interface. 200, reel backlight, etc.) are connected.

  In addition, the CPU 404 transmits and receives signals to the second sub control unit 500 via the output interface. Second sub-control unit 500 performs various controls of effect device 160 including display control of effect image display device 157. Note that the second sub-control unit 500 is, for example, a control unit that controls display of the liquid crystal display device 157 and a control unit that controls various drive devices for presentation (for example, a control unit that controls motor driving of the shutter 163). For example, it may be configured by a plurality of control units.

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

  The CPU 504 transmits the frequency division data stored in the predetermined area of the ROM 506 to the counter timer 512 via the data bus at a predetermined timing. The counter timer 512 determines an interrupt time based on the received frequency division data, and transmits an interrupt request to the CPU 404 at each interrupt time. The CPU 504 controls each IC and each circuit based on the interrupt request timing.

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

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

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

<Pattern arrangement>
Next, the symbol arrangement applied to each of the reels 110 to 112 will be described with reference to FIG. In addition, the same figure is a figure which expand | deploys and shows the arrangement | sequence of the symbol given to each reel (left reel 110, middle reel 111, right reel 112) planarly.

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

<Type of winning prize>
Next, the types of winning combinations of the slot machine 100 will be described with reference to FIG. This figure shows the types of winning combinations (including actuating combinations), symbol combinations corresponding to each winning combination, and the operation or payout of each winning combination.

  The winning combination of the slot machine 100 includes a special combination (special combination 1, special combination 2) and a general combination (replay combination 1 to replay combination 3, small combination 1 to small combination 3). The types of winning combinations are not limited to these combinations and can be arbitrarily adopted.

  Among the winning combinations in this embodiment, the special combination 1 and the special combination 2 are combinations that shift to a special gaming state in which a predetermined profit is given to the player. In addition, the re-playing role 1 to the re-playing role 3 are roles that enable re-playing without newly inserting medals. These winning combinations may be referred to as “acting combinations”. In addition, “winning” in the present embodiment includes a case where a symbol combination of an operating combination that does not accompany a medal payout (ie, does not accompany a medal payout) is displayed on the active line. A special combination 2 and a prize for re-playing role 1 to re-playing role 3 are included.

  The special combination 1 and the special combination 2 are combinations (operating combinations) that shift to a special gaming state by winning. However, medals will not be paid out for winning this role. In the corresponding symbol combination, the special role 1 is “Seven 1-Seven 1-Seven 1 (BB1)” or “Seven 2-Seven 2-Seven 2 (BB2)”, and the special role 2 is “BAR-BAR-BAR”. (RB) ".

  When the special combination 1 or special combination 2 is won internally, a special combination internal winning flag corresponding to the internal winning combination is set to ON (stored in a predetermined area of the RAM 308 of the main control unit 300). When this flag is set to ON, the main control unit 300 shifts the gaming state to the special combination internal winning state (hereinafter, this state may be referred to as RT3). This flag is kept on until winning the internal winning combination, and it becomes easy to win the internal winning combination in subsequent games. In other words, even if the special winning combination 1 or special winning combination 2 is not won, the special combination will be selected in the next and subsequent games, and the symbol combination corresponding to the special combination (for example, the special combination) In the case of winning an internal winning 1, the combination of “Seven 1-Seven 1-Seven 1 (BB1)” or “Seven 2-Seven 2-Seven 2 (BB2)”) will be in a state where it is easy to win. This special combination internal winning state (RT3) will be described later.

  The main control unit 300 shifts the gaming state to the special gaming state (hereinafter, this state may be referred to as RT4) based on the display of the symbol combination corresponding to the special combination 1 or special combination 2. Further, in this special game state, when a predetermined number of payouts are made, the game is shifted to a re-game low probability state (hereinafter, this state may be referred to as RT1). The special game state (RT4) and the replay low probability state (RT1) will be described later.

  Re-player 1 to re-player 3 are winning combinations (acting operators) that can play a game without inserting medals (game media) in the next game by winning, and no medals are paid out. . The corresponding symbol combinations are “replay-replay-replay (ordinary replay)” for replayer 1, “replay-replay-bell (promotion replay)” for replayer 2, and “bell-” for replayer 3. “Replay-Replay (Tumble Replay)”.

  The main control unit 300 shifts the gaming state to the re-gaming high probability state (hereinafter, this state may be referred to as RT2) based on the display of the symbol combination corresponding to the re-playing role 2. Further, based on the display of the symbol combination corresponding to the re-game player 3, the game state is shifted to the re-game low probability state (RT1). The replay high probability state (RT2) will be described later.

  The re-game player may be any player who can play the next game without the player inserting medals. Therefore, for example, when a re-game is won, a medal may be automatically inserted in the next game (the medal insertion number is reset in a medal insertion number storage area described later), or a re-game is won. It is also possible to use a medal that has been thrown into the next game as it is in the next game.

  A “small role (small role 1 to small role 3)” (hereinafter sometimes referred to as “small role 1”, “small role 2”, and “small role 3” respectively), a predetermined number of medals are paid out by winning a prize. In the winning combination, the small combination 1 is “Watermelon-Watermelon-Watermelon (Watermelon)”, the small role 2 is “ANY-Cherry-ANY”, and the small role 3 is “ANY-Bell-”. ANY (bell) ". The corresponding payout number is as shown in FIG. In the case of “ANY-Cherry-ANY”, the symbol of the middle reel 111 may be “Cherry”, and the symbol of the left reel 110 and the right reel 112 may be any symbol. In the case of “ANY-bell-ANY”, the symbol of the middle reel 111 may be “bell”, and the symbol of the left reel 110 and the right reel 112 may be any symbol.

<Type of gaming state>
Next, the type and transition of the gaming state of the slot machine 100 will be described. FIG. 6 is a transition diagram of the gaming state of the slot machine 100.

  The slot machine 100 is roughly divided into four game states: a replay low probability state (RT1), a replay high probability state (RT2), a special role internal winning state (RT3), and a special game state (RT4). These gaming states are controlled by the main control unit 300. FIG. 6A shows these four game states. FIG. 6B shows the transition conditions for each gaming state, and FIG. 6A shows the symbols corresponding to the transition conditions shown in FIG. 6B on the arrows connecting the gaming states. Has been. When the transition condition corresponding to the symbol described in each arrow is established, the gaming state transitions in the direction of the arrow. Conditions for this game state transition include, for example, winning a predetermined combination, winning a predetermined combination internally, stopping a specific combination of symbols on a specific winning line, and playing a specified number of games. And a predetermined number of payouts may be made.

  FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a lottery table for winning combinations in each gaming state. The horizontal axis represents each gaming state, and the vertical axis represents the lottery value for each winning combination. The internal winning probability of the winning combination in each gaming state described below is a random value obtained from the lottery data prepared in the ROM 306 corresponding to the range of the lottery data associated with each winning combination at the time of the internal lottery. Is obtained by dividing by numerical data in the range of (for example, 65535). For example, in the replay low probability state (RT1), the lottery value of the small combination 1 is 512, and the winning probability of the small combination 1 is 512/65536 * 100≈0.8%. The lottery data is divided into several numerical ranges in advance, and each combination and lose is associated with each numerical range. It is determined whether the random number value obtained as a result of executing the internal lottery is a value corresponding to the lottery data corresponding to which combination, and the internal lottery combination is determined. This lottery data is provided with settings 1 to 6 in which the winning probabilities of at least one combination are different, and a game shop clerk can arbitrarily select and set any set value. In addition, the lottery probability shown in this figure is an example, Comprising: It is not limited to this probability. For example, the probability of winning an internal special for a special role (No. 1 or 2) is set lower than the probability of winning an internal combination with No. 1 or 2 (No. 3 to 6). It is an example and is not limited to this internal winning probability. Also, the internal winning probability (No. 7 to 9) of the re-playing role increases in the order of the low re-playing probability state (RT1), the special winning internal winning state (RT3), and the high replaying probability state (RT2). However, this configuration is also an example, and is not limited to this internal winning probability. Furthermore, the internal winning probability (No. 12) of the small role 3a is configured to be the same in all gaming states except the special gaming state (RT4), but this configuration is also an example, and this internal winning probability It is not limited to probability.

  Hereinafter, the gaming state of the slot machine 100 will be described with reference to the drawings as appropriate.

<Replay low probability state (RT1)>
The replay low probability state is a game state in which the internal winning probability of replay is the lowest (unfavorable for the player) among other game states (for example, game states other than the special game state), and is referred to as a normal game state There is also. In the replay low probability state, a winning combination to be internally won is drawn by referring to the lottery table in the column “RT1” on the horizontal axis shown in FIG.

  The winning combination for internal winning in the low replay state includes special role 1, special role 2, special role 1-small role 1, special role 1-small role 2, special role 2-small role 1, special role 2- There are a small role 2, a replaying role 1, a replaying role 1-2, a small role 1, a small role 2, and a small role 3a. If the winning combination is not won, the game is lost, and the symbol combination corresponding to the winning combination is not displayed. The fact that the symbol combination related to winning in the winning line is not stopped may be referred to as “losing”. In addition, the fact that the winning combination has not been won may be expressed as “winning”. Further, the small combination 1 and the small combination 2 may be referred to as a chance combination. For example, the internal winning of the chance role is: special role 1-small role 1, special role 1-small role 2, special role 2-small role 1, special role 2-small role 2, small role 1, small role 2, Refers to the internal winning.

  Here, “special role 1—small role 1” indicates that special role 1 and small role 1 have been internally elected simultaneously. Similarly, “special role 1—small role 2” means that special role 1 and small role 2 were simultaneously elected internally, and “special role 2-small role 1” means that special role 2 and small role 1 were simultaneously “Special Special 2—Small 2” indicates that Special Special 2 and Small 2 were simultaneously elected internally. In these cases, it is determined whether the symbol combination corresponding to any of the combinations is displayed according to the player's operation. More specifically, the symbols constituting the symbol combination corresponding to the winning line are stopped unless any of the winning combinations in the winning line is impossible.

  In addition, “re-game combination 1-2” indicates that re-play game combination 1 and re-play game combination 2 were simultaneously elected internally. In this case, it is determined which symbol combination corresponding to which combination is displayed according to the operation order of the player. More specifically, when the stop operation is performed in accordance with the correct operation sequence that is a predetermined operation sequence, the symbol combination (promotion replay) corresponding to the re-game player 2 is displayed (in the remarks column of FIG. In other cases, the symbol combination (normal replay) corresponding to the replaying combination 1 is displayed (refer to the remarks column in FIG. 7 when the operation order is incorrect).

  In the slot machine 100 of the present embodiment, there are a plurality of operation orders depending on the combination of the first stop operation, the second stop operation, and the third stop operation (for example, left middle right, left and right middle, middle left and right, middle right left, right left Middle, right, middle, left, 6 ways). The “re-game player 1-2” described above includes a plurality of “re-game players 1-2” in which one of these operation orders is the correct operation order. The internal winning probability shown in FIG. 7 is the sum of the internal winning probabilities of these multiple types of “re-gamer 1-2”. Like this “re-game player 1-2”, a re-game player in which the symbol combination corresponding to the winning combination is determined by the operation order may be referred to as “push order replay”. In addition, a combination in which a winning combination is determined by an operation order, such as “re-game combination 1-2”, may be referred to as an “operation order combination”.

  In the present embodiment, a plurality of types of “re-game players 1-2” are provided for all operation orders, and a configuration in which these internal winning probabilities are made equal is employed. However, this configuration is an example, and for example, the operation order for winning the re-game player 2 with a plurality of types of “re-game player 1-2” is set to the operation sequence in which the right is the first stop. (For example, the internal winning probability of “re-gamer 1-2” corresponding to the first left stop and the middle first stop is set to 0), and the stop operation is performed in the operation order in which the right is the first stop. The internal winning probability is set so that there is an advantage and disadvantage that it becomes easier to win the re-gamer 2 if the stop operation is performed in a specific operation order, such as making it easier to win the re-gamer 2 A biased configuration may be employed.

  Further, in the present embodiment, a plurality of “re-game players 1-2” having different correct answer operation orders are provided. For example, after providing one internal winning combination “re-game player 1-2”, You may comprise so that a correct operation order may be determined by lottery when an internal winning combination is won.

  Up to this point, the “re-gamer 1-2” in FIG. 7 has been described, but “small role 3a” is also set so that the player's advantage and disadvantage differ according to the player's operation order. This will be specifically described below.

  When “Pocket 3a” is won internally, a winning line on which a symbol combination corresponding to the small role 3 is displayed is determined according to the player's operation order (see the remarks column in FIG. 7). More specifically, when a stop operation is performed in accordance with a correct operation sequence that is a predetermined operation sequence, the “bell symbol” is displayed in the middle stage of the middle reel 111 (see the position of number 5 shown in FIG. 2). In other cases, the “bell symbol” is displayed in the lower part of the middle reel 111 (see the position of the number 6 shown in FIG. 2).

  When the “bell symbol” is displayed in the middle stage of the middle reel 111 (see the position of the number 5 shown in FIG. 2), the middle stage winning line L1, the lower right winning line L2, and the upper right winning line L3 shown in FIG. The symbol combinations corresponding to the small role 3 are arranged on one pay line, and 12 medals are paid out (refer to the remarks column in FIG. 7 when the operation order is correct). When the “bell symbol” is displayed in the lower part of the middle reel 111 (see the position of the number 6 shown in FIG. 2), the symbol combinations corresponding to the lower prize line L4 shown in FIG. It is paid out (refer to the remarks column in FIG. 7 when the operation sequence is incorrect).

  In the slot machine 100 of the present embodiment, there are a plurality of operation orders depending on the combination of the first stop operation, the second stop operation, and the third stop operation (for example, left / right middle, left middle / right, right middle / left, right / left middle, (1st stop in the middle, total 5 ways) In the “small role 3a” described above, there are a plurality of types of “small roles 3a” in which one of these operation orders is the correct operation order. The internal winning probability shown in FIG. 7 is the sum of the internal winning probabilities of these multiple types of “small role 3a”. In the present embodiment, the internal winning probabilities of these multiple types of “small roles 3a” are set equally. That is, there is no advantage or disadvantage that a stop operation in a specific operation order is advantageous to the player. However, this configuration is merely an example, and it may be advantageous to the player when, for example, these internal winning probabilities are varied and a stop operation is performed according to a specific operation sequence. A small combination in which the symbol combination corresponding to the winning combination is determined by the operation order, such as “small combination 3a”, may be referred to as “push order small combination”. In addition, a combination in which a winning combination is determined by the operation order, such as the “small combination 3a”, may be referred to as an “operation order combination”.

  Further, in the present embodiment, a plurality of “small roles 3a” having different correct operation orders are provided. For example, when one internal winning combination of “small roles 3a” is provided and this role is internally won Alternatively, the correct answer operation order may be determined by lottery. Further, in this embodiment, a configuration is adopted in which the number of payouts is different between the correct answer in the operation order and the incorrect answer. For example, in the correct answer in the operation order, there is a payout, In this case, there may be cases where there is no payout. In other words, any configuration may be used in which the correct answer in the operation order is more advantageous than the incorrect answer in the operation order. Further, in the above description, an example has been described in which more medals are paid out (advantageous) when correct in the operation order. However, not only the operation order but also the advantages and disadvantages depending on the timing of the stop operation and the combination of the operation order and the timing. The structure which produces may be sufficient. The “small role 3a” described here is the same in the gaming state described below.

  In FIG. 6, when a symbol combination corresponding to the replaying role 2 is displayed in the replaying low probability state (RT1) (when winning the replaying role 2), a replaying high probability state (described later) The transition to RT2) is shown. Also, the figure shows that when the special combination 1 or special combination 2 is won internally, the state shifts to a special combination internal winning state (RT3) described later. Further, when a symbol combination corresponding to special role 1 or special role 2 is displayed (when winning special role 1 or special role 2), it is indicated that the state shifts to a special gaming state (RT4) described later. ing.

<Replay high probability state (RT2)>
The re-game high probability state (RT2) is a game state in which the internal winning probability of the re-gamer is higher than that of the re-game low probability state (RT1). In the re-playing high probability state (RT2), the winning combination to be won internally is lottery with reference to the lottery table in the column “RT2” on the horizontal axis shown in FIG.

  In the re-playing high probability state (RT2), the winning combination that is elected internally is special role 1, special role 2, special role 1-small role 1, special role 1-small role 2, special role 2-small role 1, special There are a role 2-a small role 2, a replaying role 1, a replaying role 1-3, a small role 1, a small role 2, and a small role 3 a. If the winning combination is not won, the game is lost, and the symbol combination corresponding to the winning combination is not displayed.

  Here, “re-playing combination 1-3” indicates that re-playing combination 1 and re-playing combination 3 were internally elected simultaneously. In this case, it is determined which symbol combination corresponding to which combination is displayed according to the operation order of the player. More specifically, when a stop operation is performed in accordance with a correct operation sequence that is a predetermined operation sequence, a symbol combination (ordinary replay) corresponding to the re-game player 1 is displayed (in FIG. In other cases, the symbol combination (falling replay) corresponding to the replaying combination 3 is displayed (refer to the remarks column in FIG. 7 when the operation order is incorrect).

  In the slot machine 100 of the present embodiment, there are a plurality of operation orders depending on the combination of the first stop operation, the second stop operation, and the third stop operation (for example, left middle right, left and right middle, middle left and right, middle right left, right left Middle, right, middle, left, 6 ways). The above-described “re-gamer 1-3” has a plurality of types of “re-gamer 1-3” whose one of these operation orders is the correct operation order. The internal winning probability shown in FIG. 7 is the sum of the internal winning probabilities of these multiple types of “re-gamer 1-2”. This “re-game player 1-3” may also be referred to as “push order replay” in the same manner as the “re-game player 1-2”. In addition, a combination in which a winning combination is determined by an operation order, such as “re-game combination 1-3”, may be referred to as an “operation order combination”. In addition, as for the modified example of the internal winning probability in the “re-gamer 1-3”, the modified example described in the “re-gamer 1-2” can be adopted.

  In FIG. 6, when the symbol combination corresponding to the replaying combination 3 is displayed in the replaying high probability state (RT2) (when the replaying combination 3 is won), the above-mentioned replaying low probability state ( The transition to RT1) is shown. In addition, in the same figure, it is shown that if special winning 1 or special winning 2 is won internally, it will shift to the special winning internal winning state (RT3) described later. When the corresponding symbol combination is displayed (when the special combination 1 or the special combination 2 is won), it is indicated that the state shifts to a special gaming state (RT4) described later.

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

  Further, FIG. 6 shows that when a symbol combination corresponding to special role 1 or special role 2 is displayed in the special role internal winning state (RT3), the state shifts to a special game state (RT4) described later. Has been.

<Special gaming state (RT4)>
The special game state (RT4) is a game state that is most advantageous to the player among all the game states. In the special game state, the winning combination to be won internally is drawn by referring to the lottery table in the column “RT4” on the horizontal axis shown in FIG. The only winning combination that is won internally in the special gaming state is only the small combination 3b. If the winning combination is not won, the game is lost, and the symbol combination corresponding to the winning combination is not displayed.

  When the “small role 3b” is won internally, the “bell symbol” is displayed in the middle stage of the middle reel 111 (see the position of the number 5 shown in FIG. 2) regardless of the operation order (see the remarks column in FIG. 7). . As a result, the symbol combination corresponding to the small role 3 is arranged on the three winning lines of the middle stage winning line L1, the lower rightward winning line L2, and the upper right winning line L3 shown in FIG. 2, so that 12 medals are paid out. The

  FIG. 6 shows that in the special game state (RT4), when the specified number is paid out, the game shifts to the re-game low probability state (RT1). Specifically, in the case of shifting to the special gaming state based on the display of the symbol combination corresponding to the special combination 1, when the payout of 360 or more medals is completed, the re-gaming low probability state (RT1) is entered. Transition. In addition, in the case of shifting to the special gaming state based on the display of the symbol combination corresponding to the special combination 2, when the payout of 96 or more medals is completed, the transition to the re-gaming low probability state (RT1) is performed.

  In this embodiment, the special game state ends when a specified number of payouts are executed. For example, the special game state ends when a predetermined combination (for example, a single bonus) is won, or a predetermined number of times ( For example, the game may be ended when there are 8 winnings or when a predetermined number of games (for example, 6 times) are played.

<AT gaming state>
The main control unit 300 of the slot machine 100 according to the present embodiment controls four gaming states (RT1, RT2, RT3, RT4). On the other hand, in the first sub-control unit 400, when an internal winning is made to any one of the replaying role 1-2, the replaying role 1-3, and the small role 3a, an operation order suggestion for notifying information on the winning combination internally Production may start. Hereinafter, the state in which the operation order suggesting effect is executed is referred to as an AT (assist time) gaming state. Here, the details of this AT gaming state will be described.

  In the AT gaming state, when the winning combination is won internally, an effect suggesting the operation timing of the stop operation means or the pressing order is executed so as to bring a result advantageous to the player. Specifically, in the case where “Re-Gamer 1-2” is won internally, the operation order for winning Re-Gamer 2 is suggested, and in the case where “Re-Gamer 1-3” is internally won Suggesting the order of operations for winning the re-playing combination 1, and when “Position 3a” is won internally, the “bell symbol” is displayed in the middle stage of the middle reel 111 (see position number 5 shown in FIG. 2). It suggests the sequence of operations to be performed.

  “Re-game combination 1-2” is a combination that is won internally in the low-replay probability state (RT1). When this winning combination is won internally, the winning combination is either the replaying role 1 (normal replay) or the replaying role 2 (promotional replay). These combinations are common in that replays are given, but are different in that the replay combination 2 is a combination that makes a transition to a replay high probability state (RT2), which is a more advantageous game state for the player. In other words, it is more advantageous for the player to win the re-game player 2 than to win the re-game player 1. For this reason, in the AT gaming state, when “re-gamer 1-2” is internally won, an effect suggesting an operation order for aligning symbols corresponding to re-gamer 2 is executed.

  “Re-playing combination 1-3” is a combination for internal winning in the re-playing high probability state (RT2). When this winning combination is won internally, the winning combination is either the replaying role 1 (normal replay) or the replaying role 3 (falling replay). Although these combinations are common in that replays are given, they differ in that the replay combination 3 is a combination that makes a transition to a replay low probability state (RT1), which is a more disadvantageous game state for the player. That is, it is more advantageous for the player to win the re-game 1 than to win the re-game 3. For this reason, in the AT gaming state, when “re-gamer 1-3” is internally won, an effect suggesting an operation order for aligning symbols corresponding to re-gamer 1 is executed.

  “Small 3a” is an internal winning combination in the gaming state except the special gaming state (RT4). When an internal winning is made for this role, the “bell design” is displayed on either the middle stage of the middle reel 111 (see the position of number 5 shown in FIG. 2) or the upper stage of the middle reel 111 (see the position of number 4 shown in FIG. 2). Is done. As described above, when the “bell symbol” is displayed in the middle stage of the middle reel 111, 12 medals are paid out, and when the “bell symbol” is displayed in the lower stage of the middle reel 111, four medals are paid out. . That is, it is more advantageous for the player to display the “bell symbol” on the upper stage of the middle reel 111 than on the lower stage of the middle reel 111. For this reason, in the AT gaming state, when the “small role 3a” is internally won, an effect suggesting an operation order for displaying the “bell symbol” on the middle stage of the middle reel 111 is executed.

  In the slot machine 100 of the present embodiment, the AT gaming state is set in the first sub control unit main process by setting the AT flag provided in the RAM 408 of the first sub control unit 400 to ON. The AT flag is set when there is an AT set number provided in the RAM 408, and an initial value is set for the AT game number. Note that the AT gaming state is maintained as long as the number of AT games remains. That is, the AT game count indicates the number of games in which the AT flag is turned on. In the present embodiment, when the gaming state is one of the re-gaming low probability state (RT1) and the re-gaming high probability state (RT2) and the AT flag is off, the number of AT sets is 1 or more. The AT flag is set to ON. In a state where the AT flag is set to ON, 1 is subtracted from the number of AT games for each game, and when the number of AT games becomes 0, the AT flag is set to OFF. Note that the number of AT games is not subtracted while the game state is the special game state (RT4). The number of AT sets is stored in the RAM 408 of the first sub-control unit 400, and is added when a predetermined condition is satisfied (in this embodiment, it is processed in step S3109 in FIG. 30).

  Note that in a state where the AT game is being executed, the player can easily obtain medals. Depending on the length of this period or the like, there may be a situation that is more advantageous to the player than the special gaming state (RT4) described above.

<Outline of stepping motor>
Here, an outline of the stepping motor responsible for the rotational drive of the reel in the gaming machine of the present embodiment and the control (normal rotation) of the reels 110 to 112 in a normal game will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an outline of a stepping motor.

  FIG. 8A is a cross-sectional view showing the structure around the rotation axis of the stepping motor. This stepping motor is a so-called PM-type stepping motor, and includes a rotor R around which a plurality of magnets are arranged and a stator S in which four electromagnets having a so-called two-phase winding configuration are arranged in order. (See the enlarged view of FIG. 8A). In this embodiment, a PM type stepping motor is used, but another type of motor such as a so-called HB type stepping motor may be used.

  The magnets arranged on the rotor R are arranged so that N poles and S poles are alternately arranged at equal intervals, and the total number is 252. The four systems of electromagnets, electromagnet A1, electromagnet B1, electromagnet A2, and electromagnet B2, arranged on stator S, are arranged at equal intervals so as to face the magnet arranged on rotor R. The number of electromagnets in one system is 63, and 252 electromagnets are arranged in the entire stator S.

  This stepping motor applies force to the magnets arranged around the rotor R by controlling the four systems of electromagnets arranged on the stator S, and rotates the rotor R. FIG. 8B shows an example of control pulses used when controlling four systems of electromagnets. This pulse is an excitation type pulse called 1-2 phase excitation. In this method, the excitation pattern of the stator S is 8 patterns. In FIG. 8C, these eight excitation patterns are shown by signals for four systems of electromagnets. This pattern is stored in the ROM 306 of the main control unit 300.

  When the reels 110 to 112 are rotated in the forward direction, the control shown in FIG. 8C is performed to switch the pattern shown in FIG. 8C in order from top to bottom, such as pattern 1, pattern 2, pattern 3,. . Note that the control after the pattern 8 is switched to the pattern 1. Further, when the reels 110 to 112 are rotated in the reverse direction, the pattern shown in FIG. 8C is controlled to be switched in order from the bottom to the top, contrary to the case of rotating the reels 110 to 112 in the forward direction. Note that the control after the pattern 1 is switched to the pattern 8. Furthermore, when the reels 110 to 112 are stopped, control for maintaining the excitation pattern may be performed. However, in this embodiment, in order to maintain the stopped state with a larger torque, the stopped state of the reels 110 to 112 is maintained by an excitation method called so-called two-phase excitation.

  The stepping motor of the present embodiment can rotate the reels 110 to 112 once by switching the excitation pattern 504 times. That is, the positions of the reels 110 to 112 can be controlled in increments of 0.71 ° (360 ° / 504). When moving one symbol, it is necessary to switch the excitation pattern 24 times (504 times / 21 symbols) in either the forward direction or the reverse direction.

  Hereinafter, changes in the excitation pattern when performing reel control will be described with reference to FIGS. 9 and 10. FIG. FIG. 9 is a first diagram of all two diagrams showing excitation switching patterns corresponding to the reel control states in a table. FIG. 10 is a second diagram of all two diagrams showing excitation switching patterns corresponding to the reel control states in a table.

  In FIG. 9, the reels 110 to 112 that are in a stopped state (stop control state) by operating the start lever 135 are gradually accelerated (accelerated control state) until reaching a constant speed, and then at a constant speed by a stop operation. Details of excitation patterns (hereinafter referred to as excitation switching patterns) that are switched to perform a series of controls until the reels 110 to 112 that are rotating (constant speed control state / retraction control state) are stopped (brake control state). It is shown. For example, the excitation pattern in the stopped state is not necessarily the same excitation pattern because the excitation pattern is adjusted so that the positions of the symbols applied to the reels 110 to 112 stop on the effective line of the display window 113. . For this reason, in FIG. 9, the excitation pattern that maintains the stop state among the excitation patterns shown in FIG. 8C is used as a reference (excitation pattern offset value is 0), and excitation is performed in the forward direction therefrom. The excitation switching pattern is represented by the number of times the pattern is switched. FIG. 9 shows this number of times as the excitation pattern offset value. For example, when the reel is in a stopped state in the state of the excitation pattern 2, an excitation pattern offset value of 0 indicates that the excitation pattern 2 is present, and an excitation pattern offset value of 1 indicates that the excitation pattern offset value is 1. In other words, an excitation pattern offset value of 7 indicates excitation pattern 1. Further, the value shown in the holding time column of the tables shown in FIG. 9 and FIG. 10 is a value obtained by multiplying the interrupt time by 1.504 ms which is the interrupt time.

  First, in the “stop control state” of the item “state”, an excitation switching pattern for maintaining the stop state of the reels 110 to 112 is shown. According to this excitation switching pattern, the stopped state of the reels 110 to 112 is maintained by maintaining one excitation pattern by the two-phase excitation method, and the current used by the stepping motor at that time is 20%. ing.

  Subsequently, control for starting rotation of the reels 110 to 112 is performed by operating the start lever 135. The item “state” “acceleration control state” indicates an excitation switching pattern for performing control for accelerating the rotation of the reels 110 to 112. For example, from when the initial excitation pattern offset value is 0 to when the excitation pattern offset value is 2, the excitation pattern offset value is 18 ms (12 interruptions) and the excitation pattern offset value is 1. It is shown that the state is maintained for 18 ms (12 interrupts) and the excitation pattern offset value is 2 for 4.5 ms (3 interrupts). According to this excitation switching pattern, the control for accelerating the rotation of the reels 110 to 112 is executed by sequentially switching the excitation pattern of the 1-2 phase excitation method and gradually shortening the holding time. It has been shown. It is shown that the current used by the stepping motor in this control is 100%.

  After the rotation speeds of the reels 110 to 112 reach a constant speed, the rotation speeds of the reels 110 to 112 are maintained at a constant speed until a brake control state described later is reached based on the operation of the stop buttons 137 to 139. In the item “state”, “constant speed control state / retraction control state”, an excitation switching pattern for keeping the rotation speed of the reels 110 to 112 at a constant speed is shown. Here, it is shown that all excitation patterns are held for 1.5 ms (one interruption). That is, this excitation switching pattern indicates that the 1-2 phase excitation method excitation pattern is sequentially switched at equal intervals in accordance with a desired speed. By this control, the rotation speed of the reels 110 to 112 is kept constant. The current used by the stepping motor in this control is 60%. In the constant speed control state / retraction control state, only a total of eight excitation pattern offset values of 0 to 7 are shown, but this control state is repeated until the reels 110 to 112 are in the brake control state.

  After the rotation speeds of the reels 110 to 112 reach a constant speed, control to stop the rotation of the reels 110 to 112 is performed based on the operation of the stop buttons 137 to 139. The item “state” “brake control state” indicates an excitation switching pattern for stopping the rotation of the reels 110 to 112. With this excitation switching pattern, one excitation pattern is maintained (75.2 seconds) by the two-phase excitation method, the rotation of the reels 110 to 112 is braked, and the reels 110 to 112 are stopped. In order to shift to the stop control state of the two-phase excitation method after this brake control state, the two-phase excitation is always set in this brake control state. Further, it is shown that the current used by the stepping motor in this control is 100%.

  The reel control related to normal game progress is performed by the excitation switching pattern shown in FIG. However, apart from these reel controls, the reels 110 to 112 may be rotated in reverse for the purpose of production, and an excitation switching pattern for this effect is prepared. FIG. 10 shows an excitation switching pattern (effect rotation control state (acceleration)) for accelerating the reels 110 to 112 in a direction opposite to the normal direction, and an excitation switching pattern for rotating the reels 110 to 112 at a constant speed. Details of the effect rotation control state (constant speed) are shown.

  The item “state” “effect rotation control state (acceleration)” shows an excitation switching pattern for performing control to accelerate the rotation of the reels 110 to 112 in the direction opposite to the normal direction. This excitation switching pattern differs from the excitation switching pattern described in the “acceleration control state” of the item “state” shown in FIG. 9 only in the excitation pattern offset value. More specifically, the excitation pattern offset value increases in the “acceleration control state”, whereas the excitation pattern offset value decreases in the “effect rotation control state (acceleration)”. Due to this difference, the reels 110 to 112 are accelerated in the direction opposite to the “acceleration control state”. The contents other than the difference in the rotation direction are the same as those in the “acceleration control state”.

  After the rotational speed of the reels 110 to 112 reaches a constant speed by the excitation switching pattern described above, control is performed to keep the speed constant. The item “state” “effect rotation control state (constant speed)” shows an excitation switching pattern for keeping the rotation speed of the reels 110 to 112 rotating in the opposite direction to the normal direction at a constant speed. This excitation switching pattern differs from the excitation switching pattern described in the “constant speed control state / retraction control state” of the item “state” shown in FIG. 9 only in the excitation pattern offset value. Specifically, the excitation pattern offset value increases in the “constant speed control state / retraction control state”, whereas the excitation pattern offset value decreases in this “production rotation control state (constant speed)”. Is different. Due to this difference, the rotation speeds of the reels 110 to 112 are maintained at a constant speed in the direction opposite to the “constant speed control state / retraction control state”. The contents other than the difference in the rotation direction are the same as those in the “constant speed control state / retraction control state”.

  Note that the reels 110 to 112 rotated in the “effect rotation control state (constant speed)” described above are stopped using the excitation switching pattern of the “brake control state” shown in FIG.

  In the above-described “constant speed control state / retraction control state” and “production rotation control state (constant speed)”, each excitation pattern may be switched every interrupt, and excitation is performed as in other control states. There is no need to adjust the holding time (number of interrupts) according to the pattern. For this reason, in this embodiment, the holding time data is not used when in the “constant speed control state / retraction control state” or “effect rotation control state (constant speed)”, and each excitation pattern is switched for each interrupt. A configuration for processing is adopted. In other control states, the excitation switching patterns shown in FIGS. 9 and 10 are realized by using the data of the holding time corresponding to each excitation pattern. However, this configuration is merely an example, and a configuration using retention time data when in the “constant speed control state / retraction control state” or “effect rotation control state (constant speed)” may be employed.

<Outline of processing>
Hereinafter, processing of the main control unit 300, the first sub control unit 400, and the second sub control unit 500 will be described with reference to the drawings.

<Main control unit main processing>
First, main control unit main processing executed by the CPU 304 of the main control unit 300 will be described with reference to FIG. This figure is a flowchart showing the flow of main processing of the main control unit.

  As described above, the main control unit 300 is provided with the start signal output circuit (reset signal output circuit) 338 that outputs the start signal (reset signal) when the power is turned on. The CPU 304 of the basic circuit 302 to which this activation signal has been input resets by a reset interrupt and executes the main process of the main control unit shown in FIG. 11 in accordance with a control program stored in advance in the ROM 306.

  When the power is turned on, first, various initial settings are made in step S101. In this initial setting, setting of a stack initial value to the stack pointer (SP) of the CPU 304, setting of interrupt prohibition, initial setting of the I / O 310, initial setting of various variables stored in the RAM 308, operation permission to the WDT 314, and initial setting Set the value.

  In step S103, a betting number setting / start operation accepting process is executed. Here, it is checked whether or not a medal has been inserted, and the winning line display lamp 120 is turned on according to the insertion of the medal. In addition, it prepares to send an insertion command indicating that a medal has been inserted. When a re-game player is won in the previous game, the same number of medals as the number of medals inserted in the previous game are processed, so that it is not necessary for the player to insert medals. Further, it is checked whether or not the start lever 135 has been operated. If there is an operation of the start lever 135, the process proceeds to step S105.

  In step S105, the number of inserted medals is determined and an effective winning line is determined.

  In step S107, the random number generated by the random number generation circuit 316 is acquired.

  In step S109, the winning combination lottery table stored in the ROM 306 is read according to the current gaming state, and an internal lottery is performed using this and the random value acquired in step S107, and the result of the internal lottery is shown. Preparation for transmitting the internal winning command to the first sub-control unit 400 is performed. As a result of the internal lottery, when any winning combination (including an operating combination) is won internally, the flag of the winning combination is turned on. Details of the winning combination internal lottery process will be described later with reference to FIG.

  In step S111, reel stop data is selected based on the internal lottery result. The reel stop data is stored in the ROM 306 of the main control unit 300.

  In step S113, reel rotation start processing is executed to start rotation of all reels 110 to 112. Details of the reel rotation start process will be described later with reference to FIG.

  In step S115, a reel stop control process is executed. In this process, the stop buttons 137 to 139 can be received, and when any of the stop buttons is pressed, the reel corresponding to the pressed stop button is stopped, and the stop table of the reel stop data is referred to. Then, one of the reels 110 to 112 is stopped according to the number of drawn frames set in the stop table. When all the reels 110 to 112 are stopped, the process proceeds to step S117. Details of the reel stop control process will be described later with reference to FIG.

  In step S117, a winning determination process is performed. Details of the winning determination process will be described later with reference to FIG.

  In step S119, if any winning combination with payout is won, the number of medals corresponding to the winning combination is paid out according to the number of winning lines.

  In step S121, game state control processing is performed. In the gaming state control process, processing relating to transition of each gaming state of the re-gaming low probability state (RT1), the re-gaming high probability state (RT2), the special role internal winning state (RT3), the special gaming state (RT4), The gaming state is shifted when the start condition or the end condition is satisfied. In addition, preparation for transmission of a game state update command including information indicating the current game state is made. Thus, one game is finished. Thereafter, the process proceeds by returning to step S103 and repeating the above-described processing.

  Next, the details of the winning combination internal lottery process (step S109) in the main process of the main control unit in FIG. 11 will be described with reference to FIG. This figure is a flowchart showing the flow of the winning combination internal lottery process (step S109) shown in FIG.

  First, in the first step S1001, an internal winning combination is determined based on the random number acquired in the random number acquisition process (step S107 in FIG. 11) of the main control unit main process. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S1003.

  In step S1003, it is determined whether the effect rotation standby flag is set to ON. If this flag is set on, the process proceeds to step S1005, and if it is set off, the process proceeds to step S1013. This flag is stored in the RAM 308 of the main control unit 300.

  In step S1005, the value of the execution standby counter is decremented by 1, and the process proceeds to step S1007. Here, the execution stand-by counter represents the period from the time when the effect rotation standby flag is set to ON to the time when the effect rotation is actually executed (the effect rotation execution flag is set to ON). is there. The execution standby counter is stored in the RAM 308 of the counter main controller 300.

  In step S1007, it is determined whether or not the value of the execution standby counter is zero. When this value is 0, it progresses to step S1009, and when that is not right, it progresses to step S1023.

  In step S1009, the effect rotation standby flag is set to OFF, and the process proceeds to step S1011.

  In step S1011, the effect rotation execution flag is set to ON, and the process proceeds to step S1023. This flag is stored in the RAM 308 of the main control unit 300.

  In step S1013, which proceeds when the effect rotation standby flag is set to OFF in step S1003, it is determined whether or not both the special combination and the small combination (No. 3 to 6 in FIG. 7) have been won internally. If this condition is satisfied, the process proceeds to step S1015; otherwise, the process proceeds to step S1023.

  In step S1015, a lottery for determining whether or not to perform effect rotation is executed, and the process proceeds to step S1017.

  In step S1017, it is determined whether or not an effect rotation execution lottery (step S1015) has been won. If this condition is satisfied, the process proceeds to step S1019. Otherwise, the process proceeds to step S1023.

  In step S1019, an initial value is set in the execution standby counter, and the process proceeds to step S1021. The initial value may be set by setting a predetermined value, or by selecting one value from a plurality of values by lottery or the like. When 5 is set as the initial value, effect rotation is executed after 5 games.

  In step S1021, the effect rotation standby flag is set to ON, and the process proceeds to step S1023.

  In step S1023, an internal winning command transmission preparation is executed. The internal winning command includes information indicating the state of the effect rotation standby flag, the state of the effect rotation execution flag, and the value of the execution standby counter in addition to the information indicating the internal winning result of the game. After this process, the winning combination internal lottery process is terminated.

  Next, details of the reel rotation start process (step S113) in the main process of the main controller shown in FIG. 11 will be described with reference to FIG. This figure is a flowchart showing the flow of the reel rotation start process (step S113) shown in FIG.

  First, in the first step S1101, it is determined whether or not the value of the game interval counter is zero. If the value of the game interval counter is 0, the process proceeds to step S1103, and if not, step S1101 is executed again. The game interval counter is a counter provided in the RAM 308 of the main control unit 300 in order to adjust the interval between games, and is counted down in a timer update process (step S209 in FIG. 17) described later. In the present embodiment, the value is initialized immediately before the reel rotation is started so that the value of the game interval counter becomes 0 when 4.1 seconds have elapsed from the start of the previous reel rotation (FIG. 13). Step S1103). This guarantees the minimum required time between games and suppresses gambling.

  In the subsequent step S1103, an initial value is set in the above-described game interval counter, and the process proceeds to step S1105.

  In step S1105, the interrupt control state is set during reel control, and the process proceeds to step S1107. Here, the interrupt control state is information for executing interrupt processing in accordance with the progress of the game, and is stored in the RAM 308.

  In step S1107, preparation for transmitting a rotation start command is executed, and the process proceeds to step S1109.

  In step S1109, it is determined whether or not the effect rotation execution flag is set to ON. If this condition is satisfied, the process proceeds to step S1111. Otherwise, the process proceeds to step S1115.

  In step S1111, effect rotation execution processing is executed, and the flow proceeds to step S1113. Details of this effect rotation execution process will be described later with reference to FIG.

  In step S1113, the effect rotation execution flag is set to OFF, and the process proceeds to step S1115.

  In step S1115, the reel control state of each reel is set to the acceleration control state, and the process proceeds to step S1117. Here, the reel control state is information indicating the control state of the reel and is stored in the RAM 308. With reference to this information, the control relating to the rotation of the reel is executed. In addition, at the same time when the reel control state is set (switched) in this way, information indicating the excitation method and the ratio of the current used corresponding to the set reel control state is transmitted to the drive circuit 322. Processing is also executed. In the present embodiment, the drive circuit 322 is configured to instruct information indicating the excitation method and the ratio of the current used at the same time that the reel control state is set. In addition to an instruction to update the excitation pattern offset value to be performed, a process for transmitting information indicating the excitation method corresponding to the reel control state stored in the RAM 308 and the ratio of the used current to the drive circuit 322 is executed. Also good.

  In step S1117, the acceleration control start flag is set to ON, and the reel rotation start process ends. The acceleration control start flag is stored in the RAM 308.

  Next, details of the effect rotation execution process (step S1111) in the reel rotation start process of FIG. 13 will be described using FIG. This figure is a flowchart showing the flow of the effect rotation execution process (step S1111) shown in FIG.

  First, in the first step S1201, the reel control state of each reel is set to the effect rotation control state, and the process proceeds to step S1203.

  In step S1203, the effect rotation start flag is set to ON, and the process proceeds to step S1205. The effect rotation start flag is stored in the RAM 308.

  In step S1205, an initial value is set in the effect continuation counter, and the process proceeds to step S1207. This effect continuation counter is stored in the RAM 308. The initial value may be set by setting a predetermined value, or by selecting one value from a plurality of values by lottery or the like.

  In step S1207, preparation for transmitting an effect rotation start command which is a command indicating that effect rotation is started is executed, and the process proceeds to step S1209. This effect rotation start command includes information indicating the initial value of the effect continuation counter.

  In step S1209, it is determined whether or not the effect continuation counter is zero. If the value of the effect continuation counter is 0, the process proceeds to step S1211, and if not, step S1209 is executed again. This effect continuation counter is counted down in a timer update process (step S209 in FIG. 17) described later. That is, the effect rotation is continued until the value set as the initial value becomes zero. For this reason, the initial value set in step S1205 determines the execution time of effect rotation.

  In step S1211, the values of the brake counters of all reels are initialized, and the process proceeds to step S1213. Note that this brake counter is a counter used for maintaining a brake control state in which processing for stopping the reels 110 to 112 is performed (brake control processing is executed at every interruption). In this embodiment, the brake control state is maintained until 50 interruptions are made (see the holding time in FIG. 9). For this reason, this value (50) is set as the initial value of the brake counter.

  In step S1213, the reel control state of all reels is set to the brake control state, and the process proceeds to step S1215.

  In step S1215, it is determined whether the reel control state of all reels is set to the stop control state. If this condition is satisfied, the process proceeds to step S1217. If not, step S1215 is executed again.

  In step S1217, preparation for transmitting an effect rotation end command, which is a command indicating that the effect rotation has ended, is executed, and the effect rotation execution process ends.

  Next, details of the reel stop control process (step S115) in the main control unit main process of FIG. 11 will be described with reference to FIG. This figure is a flowchart showing the flow of the reel stop control process (step S115) shown in FIG.

  First, in first step S1301, it is determined whether or not the reel control state of all reels is a constant speed control state. If this condition is satisfied, the process proceeds to step S1303. If not, step S1301 is executed again.

  In step S1301, it is determined whether the index sensor provided on each of the reels 110 to 112 has detected a detection piece provided on each of the reels 110 to 112. If this condition is satisfied, the process proceeds to step S1305; otherwise, step S1303 is executed again.

  In step S1305, all the stop buttons 137 to 139 are validated, and the process proceeds to step S1307. When the stop buttons 137 to 139 are activated, an operation for stopping the reels is accepted. In addition, information indicating validation and invalidation of the stop buttons 137 to 139 is stored in the RAM 308, and validation and invalidation are set by updating this information.

  In step S1307, preparation for transmitting a stop button validation command is executed, and the process advances to step S1309.

  In step S1309, it is determined whether or not the stop control execution flag is set to ON. If this flag is set to ON, the process proceeds to step S1311, and if not, step S1309 is executed again.

  In step S1311, all stop buttons 137 to 139 are invalidated, and the process proceeds to step S1313. When the stop buttons 137 to 139 are invalidated, an operation for stopping the reels is not accepted.

  In step S1313, the stop control execution flag is set to OFF, and the process proceeds to step S1315.

  In step S1315, it is determined whether the reel control state of all reels is the stop control state. If this condition is satisfied, the process proceeds to step S1317; otherwise, the process proceeds to step S1319.

  In step S1317, the interrupt control state is set to no special processing, and the reel stop control processing is terminated.

  In step S1319, the information on the reels that are currently subject to stop processing and the information on unstopped reels are referred to, and after the reel stop data (next stop data) that can be the next stop target is updated, the process proceeds to step S1321.

  In step S1321, the stop button of the stoppable reel (reel that has not been stopped since the start of rotation) is validated, and the process advances to step S1309.

  Next, details of the winning determination process (step S117) in the main process of the main control unit in FIG. 11 will be described with reference to FIG. This figure is a flowchart showing the flow of the winning determination process (step S117) shown in FIG.

  First, in the first step S1401, winning determination is performed, and the process proceeds to step S1403. In this winning determination, when a picture combination corresponding to some winning combination is displayed on the activated winning line 114, it is determined that the winning combination is won. For example, if “ANY-Bell-ANY” is aligned on the activated pay line, it is determined that the small role 3 has been won.

  In step S1403, it is determined whether the effect rotation standby flag is set to ON. If this flag is set to ON, the process proceeds to step S1405. If not, the process proceeds to step S1409.

  In step S1405, it is determined whether or not a special combination (special combination 1 or special combination 2) is won in step S1401. If this condition is satisfied, the process proceeds to step S1407; otherwise, the process proceeds to step S1409.

  In step S1407, the effect rotation standby flag is set to OFF, and the process proceeds to step S1409. Note that, in step S1405 and step S1407, when the special combination is won, the effect rotation is not performed.

  In step S1409, preparation for transmitting a winning determination command is executed. This winning determination command includes information indicating the winning combination determined in step S1401. After this process, the winning determination process is terminated.

<Main controller 300 timer interrupt processing>
Next, a main control unit timer interrupt process executed by the CPU 304 of the main control unit 300 will be described with reference to FIG. This figure is a flowchart showing the flow of the main control unit timer interrupt process.

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

  In step S201, a timer interrupt start process is performed. In this timer interrupt start process, a process of temporarily saving each register value of the CPU 304 to the stack area is performed.

  In step S203, the WDT 314 is periodically changed to the initial value (32.8 ms in this embodiment) so that no WDT interruption occurs (so as not to detect a processing abnormality). In the embodiment, the restart is performed once every about 2 ms, which is the period of the main control unit timer interrupt.

  In step S205, input port state update processing is performed. In this input port status update process, the detection signals of the sensor circuits 320 of the various sensors 318 are input via the input ports of the I / O 310 to monitor the presence or absence of the detection signals, and each of the various sensors 318 is partitioned in the RAM 308. Store in the provided signal state storage area.

  In step S207, various game processes are executed, and processes according to the interrupt status are executed. Details of the various game processes will be described later with reference to FIG.

  In step S209, timer update processing is performed. More specifically, various timers are updated for each time unit.

  In step S211, command setting transmission processing is performed, and various commands prepared for transmission are transmitted to the first sub-control unit 400. Note that the output schedule information transmitted to the first sub-control unit 400 is composed of 16 bits in the present embodiment, bit 15 is strobe information (indicating that data is set when ON), bit 11 -14 are command types (in this embodiment, basic command, input command, start lever reception command, internal winning command, effect command accompanying effect lottery processing, rotation start command accompanying the start of rotation of reels 110 to 112, stop button Stop button reception command accompanying reception of operations 137 to 139, stop position information command accompanying stop processing of reels 110 to 112, winning determination command, payout number command and payout end command accompanying medal payout processing, reel stop command, game State update command, effect rotation start command, effect rotation end command Command, a stop button enabling command), bit 0 is composed of command data (predetermined information corresponding to the command type).

  In the first sub-control unit 400, it is possible to determine the production control according to the change of the game control in the main control unit 300 by the command type included in the received output schedule information, and it is included in the output schedule information. Based on the information of the command data, the contents of effect control can be determined.

  In step S213, an external output signal setting process is performed. In this external output signal setting process, game information stored in the RAM 308 is output to an information input circuit 652 separate from the slot machine 100 via the information output circuit 334.

  In step S215, device monitoring processing is performed. In this device monitoring process, first, the signal states of the various sensors 318 stored in the signal state storage area in step S205 are read, and the presence / absence of errors relating to medal insertion abnormality and medal payout abnormality is monitored. (Not shown) Error processing is executed. Further, the medal selector 170 (medal blocker in which a solenoid provided in the medal selector 170 operates), various lamps 339, and various 7-segment (SEG) indicators are set according to the current gaming state.

  In step S217, it is monitored whether the low voltage signal is on. Then, when the low voltage signal is on (when power supply shutoff is detected), the process proceeds to step S221. When the low voltage signal is off (power supply shutoff is not detected), the process proceeds to step S219.

  In step S219, various processes for ending the timer interrupt end process are performed. In this timer interrupt end process, the value of each register temporarily saved in step S201 is set in each original register. Thereafter, the process returns to the main process of the main control unit shown in FIG.

  On the other hand, in step S221, a specific variable or stack pointer for returning to the power-off state at the time of power recovery is saved as a return data in a predetermined area of the RAM 308, and power-off processing such as initialization of input / output ports is performed. After that, the process returns to the main process of the main control unit shown in FIG.

  Next, details of various game processes (step S207) in the main control unit timer interrupt process of FIG. 17 will be described with reference to FIG. This figure is a flowchart showing the flow of various game processes (step S207) shown in FIG.

  First, in the first step S2001, the interrupt control state information stored in the RAM 308 is referred to. If this information is under reel control, the process proceeds to step S2003, and if not, the process proceeds to step S2005.

  In step S2003, a reel control process is executed, and various game processes are terminated. Details of the reel control process will be described later with reference to FIG.

  In step S2005, other various game processes are executed. Here, a process for branching to a process according to another interrupt control state (for example, a process related to medal insertion, a process related to payout, or a process not accepting external input) is executed.

  Next, details of the reel control process (step S2003) in the various game processes of FIG. 18 will be described with reference to FIG. This figure is a flowchart showing the flow of the reel control process (step S2003) shown in FIG.

  First, in first step S2101, it is determined whether or not the stop button is valid. If this condition is satisfied, the process proceeds to step S2103, and if not, the process proceeds to step S2105.

  In step S2103, stop button reception processing is executed, and the flow proceeds to step S2105. Details of the stop button reception process will be described later with reference to FIG.

  In step S2105, the processing in step S2107 described below is repeated for the number of reels (for each reel), and the reel control processing ends.

  In step S2107, each reel control process corresponding to the reel control state is executed. Details of each reel control process corresponding to the reel control state will be described later with reference to FIG.

  Next, details of the stop button reception process (step S2103) in the reel control process of FIG. 19 will be described with reference to FIG. This figure is a flowchart showing the flow of the stop button reception process (step S2103) shown in FIG.

  First, in first step S2201, it is determined whether or not operation of two or more stop buttons among the stop buttons 137 to 139 has been received (stop button overlap reception). When the operation of two or more stop buttons is received, the stop button receiving process is terminated. On the other hand, if the operation of two or more stop buttons has not been accepted, the process proceeds to step S2203.

  In step S2203, it is determined whether or not a valid stop button operation (valid stop button operation) has been accepted. If this operation is accepted, the process proceeds to step S2205. If not, the stop button accepting process is terminated.

  In step S2205, at the timing when a valid stop button is operated, a process of acquiring the symbol position of the reel to be stopped is executed, and the process proceeds to step S2207.

  In step S2207, a process of setting a pull-in counter is executed based on the symbol position acquired in step S2205 and reel stop data or next stop data (see step S111 in FIG. 11 and step S1319 in FIG. 15). This pull-in counter is a counter used for controlling the stop position of the symbol. Specifically, the number of frames to be drawn set in the stop table of the stop data is set as the initial value of the pull-in counter, and the pull-in control process is performed until the counter reaches 0 (the start of the brake control process is delayed). Thus, the stop position of the symbol can be controlled. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S2209.

  In step S2209, the reel control state of the reel to be stopped is set to the pull-in control state, and the process proceeds to step S2211.

  In step S2211, information on stoppable reels (reels for which stop operation has not been received since the start of rotation) is updated, and the flow proceeds to step S2213.

  In step S2213, the stop control execution flag is set to ON for the reel corresponding to the stop button for which the operation has been accepted. When this flag is set to ON, the process shown in FIG. 15 is executed (see step S1309 in FIG. 15). Thereafter, the stop button reception process is terminated.

  Next, details of each reel control process (step S2107) corresponding to the reel control state in the reel control process of FIG. 19 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing the flow of each reel control process (step S2107) corresponding to the reel control state shown in FIG.

  First, in step S2301, the reel control state in the RAM 308 is referred to and it is determined whether or not the reel control state is an acceleration control state. If this condition is satisfied, the process proceeds to step S2303; otherwise, the process proceeds to step S2305.

  In step S2303, an acceleration control process is executed, and each reel control process corresponding to the reel control state ends. Details of the acceleration control process will be described later with reference to FIG.

  In step S2301, the process proceeds to step S2305 when the reel control state is not the acceleration control state. In step S2305, it is determined whether the reel control state is a constant speed control state. If this condition is satisfied, the process proceeds to step S2307; otherwise, the process proceeds to step S2309.

  In step S2307, a constant speed control process is executed, and each reel control process corresponding to the reel control state ends. Details of this constant speed control process will be described later with reference to FIG.

  In step S2305, which proceeds when the reel control state is not the constant speed control state, it is determined whether or not the reel control state is the pull-in control state. If this condition is satisfied, the process proceeds to step S2311; otherwise, the process proceeds to step S2313.

  In step S2311, the pull-in control process is executed, and each reel control process corresponding to this reel control state is completed. Details of the pull-in control process will be described later with reference to FIG.

  In step S2309, it is determined whether or not the reel control state is the brake control state in step S2313 which is advanced when the reel control state is not the pull-in control state. If this condition is satisfied, the process proceeds to step S2315; otherwise, the process proceeds to step S2317.

  In step S2315, a brake control process is executed, and each reel control process corresponding to this reel control state is completed. Details of the brake control process will be described later with reference to FIG.

  In step S2313, which proceeds when the reel control state is not the brake control state in step S2313, it is determined whether or not the reel control state is the effect rotation control state. If this condition is satisfied, the process advances to step S2319; otherwise, each reel control process corresponding to this reel control state ends.

  In step S2319, the effect rotation control process is executed, and each reel control process corresponding to the reel control state ends. Details of this effect rotation control process will be described later with reference to FIG.

  Next, the details of the acceleration control process (step S2303) in each reel control process according to the reel control state of FIG. 21 will be described with reference to FIG. This figure is a flowchart showing the flow of the acceleration control process (step S2303) shown in FIG.

  First, in first step S2401, it is determined whether or not an acceleration control start flag is set to ON. If this condition is satisfied, the process proceeds to step S2419; otherwise, the process proceeds to step S2403. This acceleration control start flag is set to ON in the reel rotation start process described above (step S1117 in FIG. 13).

  In step S2403, the value of the excitation maintaining counter is updated (counted down), and the process proceeds to step S2405. Here, the excitation maintaining counter is a counter used for counting the number of interruptions for maintaining the excitation pattern. The value shown in the holding time column of the tables shown in FIGS. 9 and 10 is a value obtained by multiplying the interrupt time by 1.504 ms, which is the interrupt time. In this embodiment, the number of interruptions is set in the excitation maintaining counter, and the same excitation pattern is maintained until the required number of interruptions is satisfied, so that the same excitation pattern is maintained over the holding time shown in FIGS. It is comprised so that. The value of the excitation maintaining counter is first set at the start of reel acceleration (step S2423) and then set every time the excitation pattern is switched (step S2415).

  In step S2405, it is determined whether or not the value of the excitation maintenance counter is zero. If this value is 0, the process proceeds to step S2407; otherwise, the acceleration control process is terminated.

  In step S2407, symbol position update processing is executed, and the flow advances to step S2409. Details of this process will be described later with reference to FIG.

  In step S2409, it is determined whether or not the value of the excitation switching counter is zero. When this value is 0, it progresses to step S2417, and when that is not right, it progresses to step S2411. Here, the excitation switching counter is a counter used for managing the number of times of switching the excitation pattern offset values shown in FIGS. In the acceleration control state, the reel is accelerated by sequentially updating the excitation pattern offset value 32 times (see FIG. 9). The number of times necessary for this update is set in step S2419 described later as an initial value of the excitation switching counter.

  In step S2411, the value of the excitation switching counter is updated (counted down), and the process proceeds to step S2413.

  In step S2413, an excitation pattern offset value to be referred next is determined according to the value of the excitation switching counter, and an actual excitation pattern is set from this value, and the process proceeds to step S2415.

  In step S2415, in order to maintain the excitation pattern set in step S2413, the value of the next excitation maintenance counter is set. Each excitation pattern shown in FIG. 9 is maintained for a time (holding time) corresponding to the value of the number of interruptions, such as 12 for the first time, 12 for the second time, and 3 for the third time. For example, when the value of the excitation maintaining counter is 12, this corresponds to a holding time of 18.0 ms (one interruption: 1.504 ms × 12 times). With the value set here, the holding time corresponding to each excitation pattern offset value in the acceleration control state of FIG. 9 is secured. After this process, this acceleration control process is terminated.

  In step S2417, which proceeds when the excitation switching counter is 0 in step S2409, the reel control state of the target reel is set to the constant speed control state, and this acceleration control process ends.

  In step S2419 which proceeds when the acceleration control start flag is turned on in step S2401, the initial value of the excitation switching counter is set, and the process proceeds to step S2421. This counter is counted down in step S2411 described above.

  In step S2421, the excitation pattern corresponding to the first excitation pattern offset value (here, 0) is set out of the excitation pattern offset values in the acceleration control state of FIG. 9, and the process proceeds to step S2423.

  In step S2423, the value (12 in this case) of the excitation maintaining counter for maintaining the excitation pattern set in step S2421 is set, and the process proceeds to step S2425.

  In step S2425, the acceleration control start flag is set to OFF, and this acceleration control process ends.

  Next, details of the constant speed control process (step S2307) in each reel control process according to the reel control state of FIG. 21 will be described using FIG. This figure is a flowchart showing the flow of the constant speed control process (step S2307) shown in FIG.

  First, in the first step S2501, the excitation pattern is updated (see FIG. 9), and the process proceeds to step S2501.

  In step S2503, a symbol position update process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S2505. Details of this process will be described later with reference to FIG.

  In step S2505, it is determined whether or not a signal (L level signal) from the index sensor among the various sensors 318 has been detected. If this signal is detected, the process proceeds to step S2507. If not, the constant speed control process is terminated.

  In step S2507, symbol position initialization processing is executed, and this constant speed control processing is terminated. Details of this process will be described later with reference to FIG.

Next, the details of the pull-in control process (step S2311) in each reel control process according to the reel control state of FIG. 21 will be described using FIG. This figure is a flowchart showing the flow of the pull-in control process (step S2311) shown in FIG.

  First, in the first step S2601, the retraction counter is updated (counted down), and the process proceeds to step S2603.

  In step S2603, a symbol position update process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S2605. Details of this process will be described later with reference to FIG.

  In step S2605, it is determined whether or not the value of the pull-in counter is zero. If this condition is satisfied, the process proceeds to step S2607; otherwise, the process proceeds to step S2611.

  In step S2607, the value of the brake counter is initialized, and the process proceeds to step S2609. Note that this brake counter is a counter used for maintaining a brake control state in which processing for stopping the reels 110 to 112 is performed (brake control processing is executed at every interruption). In this embodiment, the brake control state is maintained until 50 interruptions are made (see the holding time in FIG. 9). For this reason, this value (50) is set as the initial value of the brake counter.

  In step S2609, the reel control state of the target reel is set to the brake control state, and the pull-in control process ends.

  In step S2611, the process proceeds to step S2611 when the value of the pull-in counter is not 0 in step S2605, the excitation pattern is updated (see FIG. 9), and the pull-in control process ends.

  Next, the details of the brake control process (step S2315) in each reel control process according to the reel control state of FIG. 21 will be described with reference to FIG. This figure is a flowchart showing the flow of the brake control process (step S2315) shown in FIG.

  In the first step S2701, the brake counter is updated (counted down), and the process proceeds to step S2703.

  In step S2703, it is determined whether or not the value of the brake counter is zero. If this condition is satisfied, the process proceeds to step S2705; otherwise, the brake control process is terminated.

  In step S2705, the reel control state is set to the stop control state, and this brake control process is terminated.

  Next, using FIG. 26A, the symbol position update process executed in the acceleration control process in FIG. 22, the constant speed control process in FIG. 23, and the pull-in control process in FIG. 24 (steps S2407 in FIG. 22, FIG. 23). Step S2503 and step S2603) of FIG. 24 will be described in detail. This figure is a flowchart showing the flow of the symbol position update processing (step S2407 in FIG. 22, step S2503 in FIG. 23, step S2603 in FIG. 24) shown in FIGS. 22, 23, and 24.

  In the first step S2801, the symbol interval counter is updated, and the process proceeds to step S2803. The symbol interval counter will be described later.

  In step S2803, it is determined whether or not the value of the symbol interval counter is zero. If this condition is satisfied, the process advances to step S2805; otherwise, the symbol position update process ends.

  In step S2805, the symbol position is updated (details will be described later), and the process proceeds to step S2807.

  In step S2807, the value of the symbol interval counter is initialized, and the symbol position updating process is terminated.

  Next, the details of the symbol position initialization process (step S2507 in FIG. 23) executed in the constant speed control process in FIG. 23 will be described with reference to FIG. This figure is a flowchart showing the flow of the symbol position initialization process (step S2507 in FIG. 23) shown in FIG.

  First, in the first step S2809, a value indicating the symbol position is set to an initial value, and the process proceeds to step S2811.

  In step S2811, the symbol interval counter is initialized, and the symbol position initialization process is terminated.

  Here, the symbol position and symbol interval counter used in the symbol position update process of FIG. 26A and the symbol position initialization process of FIG. First, the symbol position is information indicating in which position on the reel the symbol displayed on the display window 113 is a symbol. The symbol interval counter is information indicating how much the symbols are deviated from the positions shown in FIG. In the present embodiment, the position of the symbol and the deviation of the symbol are measured as follows.

  First, when the symbols coincide with each position shown in FIG. 2, the number of excitation pattern switching required for movement for one symbol (24 in this embodiment) is set as the initial value of the symbol interval counter (step S2807, Step S2811). The value of the symbol interval counter is counted down every time the excitation pattern is switched (step S2801), and the symbol interval counter value becomes zero when one symbol is moved (excitation pattern is switched 24 times). . At this time, the symbol position is updated to represent the state after movement for one symbol (step S2805), and the value of the symbol interval counter is set again (step S2807).

  Note that the symbol interval counter and the symbol position are initialized when the reel index sensor is detected so that the symbol interval counter value does not deviate from the actual symbol position (steps S2809 and S2811). This index sensor is a sensor that is detected when the reel reaches the reference position (for example, the position corresponding to the number 0 shown in FIG. 4 is displayed at the middle stage of the display window 113). By using these symbol positions and symbol interval counters, the symbols in the display window 113 can be grasped.

  Next, details of the effect rotation control process (step S2319) in each reel control process according to the reel control state of FIG. 21 will be described using FIG. This figure is a flowchart showing the flow of the effect rotation control process (step S2319) shown in FIG.

  First, in first step S2901, it is determined whether or not the effect rotation start flag is set to ON. If this condition is satisfied, the process proceeds to step S2911, and if not, the process proceeds to step S2903. The effect rotation start flag is set to ON in the effect rotation execution process described above (step S1203 in FIG. 14).

  In step S2903, the value of the excitation maintaining counter is updated (counted down), and the process proceeds to step S2905. The value of the excitation maintaining counter is first set at the start of effect rotation (step S2913) and then set every time the excitation pattern is switched (step S2909).

  In step S2905, it is determined whether or not the value of the excitation maintenance counter is zero. If this value is 0, the process proceeds to step S2907; otherwise, this effect rotation control process is terminated.

  In step S2907, the excitation pattern to be referred to next is set, and the process proceeds to step S2909. In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 10, excitation patterns corresponding to excitation pattern offset values of 0, 7, 6,..., 1 are set in this order, whereby the reel rotates in the direction opposite to the normal direction ( The change of the excitation pattern offset value is opposite to the acceleration control state and the constant speed control state of FIG. 9). In this effect rotation control process, up to 32 of the set excitation patterns are excitation patterns for executing the effect rotation control state (acceleration), and the current used is 100%. In addition, the 33rd and subsequent excitation patterns (excitation pattern offset values of 0, 7, 6,..., 1) are excitation patterns for executing the effect rotation control state (constant speed). The working current is 60%.

  In step S2909, in order to maintain the excitation pattern set in step S2907, the value of the next excitation maintenance counter is set. For example, when the holding time is 18.0 ms, “12” which is the number of interruptions corresponding to this holding time is set in the excitation maintaining counter. That is, the number of interruptions corresponding to the holding time shown in FIG. 10 is set in the excitation maintaining counter. For the excitation patterns (excitation patterns for executing the effect rotation control state (constant speed)) set for the 33rd and subsequent items, “1” is set in the excitation maintenance counter. After this process, this effect rotation control process is terminated.

  In step S2911, which proceeds when the effect rotation start flag is turned on in step S2901, an excitation pattern corresponding to the first excitation pattern offset value (here, 0) is set among the excitation pattern offset values in the acceleration control state of FIG. Then, the process proceeds to step S2913.

  In step S2913, the value of the excitation maintenance counter (12 in this case) for maintaining the excitation pattern set in step S2911, is set, and the process proceeds to step S2915.

  In step S2915, the effect rotation start flag is set to OFF, and this effect rotation control process ends.

<Processing of First Sub-Control Unit 400>
Next, processing of the first sub control unit 400 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 28A is a flowchart of a main process executed by the CPU 404 of the first sub control unit 400. FIG. 28B is a flowchart of the command reception interrupt process of the first sub control unit 400. FIG. 28C is a flowchart of the timer interrupt process of the first sub control unit 400.

  First, in step S301 in FIG. 28A, various initial settings are performed. When the power is turned on, an initialization process is first executed in step S301. In this initialization processing, initialization of input / output ports, initialization processing of a storage area in the RAM 408, and the like are performed. In this process, an area for storing internal winning information that is information representing the result of the internal winning and an area for storing RT update information that is information indicating the gaming state are provided in the RAM 408, respectively.

  In step S303, it is determined whether or not the timer variable is 10 or more. This process is repeated until the timer variable becomes 10, and when the timer variable becomes 10 or more, the process proceeds to step S305.

  In step S305, 0 is substituted into the timer variable.

  In step S307, command processing that is processing corresponding to each command received from the main control unit 300 is executed.

  In step S309, effect control processing is performed. Here, preparation for the production is performed according to the production reservation information in the production reservation area provided in the RAM 408. This preparation includes, for example, performing a process such as reading the effect data from the ROM 406 and performing an effect data update process when the effect data needs to be updated. Details of the effect control process will be described later with reference to FIG.

  In step S311, sound control processing is performed based on the processing result of step S309. For example, if there is a command to the sound source IC 418 in the effect data read in step S309, this command is output to the sound source IC 418.

  In step S313, lamp control processing is performed based on the processing result of step S309. For example, if there is a command to the various lamps 420 in the effect data read out in step S309, this command is output to the drive circuit 422.

  In step S315, an information output process is performed for setting to transmit a control command to the second sub-control unit 500 based on the processing result of step S309. For example, if there is a control command to be transmitted to the second sub-control unit 500 in the effect data read out in step S309, the control command is set to be output, and the process returns to step S303.

  Next, the command reception interrupt process of the first sub control unit 400 will be described with reference to FIG. This command reception interrupt process is a process executed when the first sub-control unit 400 detects a strobe signal output from the main control unit 300. In step S321 of the command reception interrupt process, the command output from the main control unit 300 is stored as an unprocessed command in a command storage area provided in the RAM 408.

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

  In step S331, 1 is added to the value of the timer variable storage area of the RAM 408 described in step S303 in the first sub control unit main process shown in FIG. 28A, and the result is stored in the original timer variable storage area. Therefore, in step S303, the value of the timer variable is determined to be 10 or more every 20 ms (2 ms × 10).

  In step S333, transmission of a control command to the second sub-control unit 500 set in step S315, an effect random number update process, and the like are performed.

  Next, details of the effect control process (step S309) in the first sub control unit main process of FIG. 28A will be described with reference to FIG. This figure is a flowchart showing the flow of the effect control process (step S309) shown in FIG.

  First, in the first step S3001, it is determined whether an internal winning command has been accepted. If this condition is satisfied, the process proceeds to step S3003. If this condition is not satisfied, the process proceeds to step S3005.

  In step S3003, an internal winning command reception process is executed. Details of this processing will be described later with reference to FIG. Thereafter, this effect control process is terminated.

  In step S3005, it is determined whether an effect rotation start command has been received. If this condition is satisfied, the process proceeds to step S3007. If this condition is not satisfied, the process proceeds to step S3009.

  In step S3007, an effect rotation start command reception process is executed. Details of this processing will be described later with reference to FIG. Thereafter, this effect control process is terminated.

  In step S3009, it is determined whether an effect rotation end command has been received. If this condition is satisfied, the process proceeds to step S3011. If this condition is not satisfied, the process proceeds to step S3013.

  In step S3011, the effect rotation end command reception process is executed. Details of this processing will be described later with reference to FIG. Thereafter, this effect control process is terminated.

  In step S3013, processing when another command is received is executed. For example, when a gaming state update command is received, a transition process to a non-AT gaming state based on the number of AT games and the number of AT sets in the AT gaming state, or an AT gaming state based on the number of AT sets in the non-AT gaming state The migration process is executed. Thereafter, this effect control process is terminated.

  Next, details of the internal winning command reception process (step S3003) in the effect control process of FIG. 29 will be described with reference to FIG. This figure is a flowchart showing the flow of the internal winning command reception process (step S3003) shown in FIG.

  First, in the first step S3101, the effect data setting process related to the interlocking effect is executed, and the process proceeds to step S3103. Details of the effect data setting process relating to the interlocking effects will be described later with reference to FIG.

  In step S3103, it is determined whether an AT game is being set with reference to the AT flag. If this condition is satisfied, the process proceeds to step S3105, and if this condition is not satisfied, the process proceeds to step S3109.

  In step S3105, it is determined whether or not an internal winning combination is made for the operation order combination. If this condition is satisfied, the process proceeds to step S3107. Otherwise, the process proceeds to step S3109.

  In step S3107, an operation order that suggests an operation order that is advantageous to the player when the operation order combination (replaying combination 1-2, replaying combination 1-3, or small combination 3a in this embodiment) is won internally. Production data for suggestion production is set, and the process proceeds to step S3109. In the present embodiment, when the re-game player 1-2 is internally won, production data suggesting the operation order for winning the re-game player 2 is set, and when the re-game player 1-3 is internally won When the effect data suggesting the operation order for winning the re-playing combination 1 is set and the small combination 3b is won internally, a bell symbol is displayed on the middle stage of the middle reel 111 (position number 5 shown in FIG. 2). The effect data suggesting the operation order for stopping is set.

  In step S3109, other processing upon receipt of the internal winning command is executed. For example, an AT game such as an update process of the number of AT games in the gaming state (addition process based on the internal winning result, a subtraction process based on the progress of the game), an addition process of the AT set number in each of the AT gaming state and the non-AT gaming state, etc. Processing related to the state, processing for setting effect data for other effects corresponding to the internal winning command, and the like are executed. Thereafter, the internal winning command reception process is terminated.

  Next, details of the effect data setting process (step S3101) related to the interlocking effect in the internal winning command reception process of FIG. 30 will be described using FIG. This figure is a flowchart showing the flow of the effect data setting process (step S3101) related to the linked effects shown in FIG.

  First, in the first step S3201, it is determined whether or not an interlocking effect is being performed (there are unexecuted effects among currently set interlocking effect patterns). If this condition is satisfied, the process proceeds to step S3213. Otherwise, the process proceeds to step S3203.

  In step S3203, an internal winning combination for a chance role (special role 1-small role 1, special role 1-small role 2, special role 2-small role 1, special role 2-small role 2, small role 1, small role 2) It is determined whether or not. If this condition is satisfied, the process proceeds to step S3205. If not, the effect data setting process relating to this linked effect is terminated.

  In step S3205, effect data corresponding to the internal winning of the chance combination is set, and the process proceeds to step S3207.

  In step S3207, it is determined from the information included in the internal winning command whether or not the effect rotation standby flag is set to ON. If this condition is satisfied, the process proceeds to step S3209; otherwise, the process proceeds to step S3211.

  In step S3209, information indicating the value of the execution standby counter included in the internal winning command is referred to, and an interlocking effect pattern corresponding to this value is set. After this process, the effect data setting process related to this linked effect is terminated.

  Here, the interlocking effect pattern is a data table in which the content of the effect executed over a plurality of games is constituted by effect data corresponding to each command in the game. When this interlocking effect pattern is set, an effect corresponding to this command is executed every time a command is received as the game progresses, and the interlocking effect is executed as a whole. In the present embodiment, when the winning combination is won internally, the linked effect pattern is always set. However, the linked effect pattern may not be set.

  When the interlocking effect pattern is set in step S3209, a reverse effect described later (refer to FIGS. 35 and 36 for details) is executed during the interlocking effect. The start timing of this reverse effect can be determined by the value of the execution standby counter. In the present embodiment, an interlocking effect pattern corresponding to the start timing of the reverse effect is prepared, and the interlocking effect pattern corresponding to the start timing of the reverse effect is set by referring to the value of the execution standby counter. .

  In step S3211, an interlocking effect pattern is set, and the effect data setting process for the interlocking effect ends.

  In step S3213 which proceeds when it is determined in step S3201 that the linked effect is being performed, the effect data corresponding to the set linked effect pattern is set, and the setting process of the effect data related to the linked effect is ended.

  Next, details of the effect rotation start command reception process (step S3007) in the effect control process of FIG. 29 will be described using FIG. This figure is a flowchart showing the flow of the effect rotation start command reception process (step S3007) shown in FIG.

  First, in the first step S3301, effect data for a reverse effect (details will be described later) is set, and the effect rotation start command reception process ends.

  Next, the details of the effect rotation end command reception process (step S3011) in the effect control process of FIG. 29 will be described with reference to FIG. This figure is a flowchart showing the flow of the effect rotation end command reception process (step S3011) shown in FIG.

  First, in first step S3303, it is determined whether an AT game is being set with reference to the AT flag. If this condition is satisfied, the process proceeds to step S3305. If this condition is not satisfied, the effect rotation end command reception process ends.

  In step S3305, it is determined whether or not an internal winning combination is made for the operation order combination. If this condition is satisfied, the process proceeds to step S3307. If not, the effect rotation end command reception process ends.

  In step S3307, an operation order that suggests an operation order that is advantageous to the player when the operation order combination (replaying combination 1-2, replaying combination 1-3, and small combination 3a in this embodiment) is won internally. The effect data for the suggestion effect is set, and the process at the time of receiving the effect rotation end command is ended. The effect data set here is the same as the effect data for the operation order suggestion effect set (step S3107 in FIG. 30) in the internal winning command reception process executed first. When the effect data is set again here, the operation order suggesting effect is executed even after the effect rotation is finished.

<Processing of Second Sub-Control Unit 500>
Next, the processing of the second sub control unit 500 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 33A is a flowchart of main processing executed by the CPU 504 of the second sub-control unit 500. FIG. 33B is a flowchart of command reception interrupt processing of the second sub control unit 500. FIG. 33C is a flowchart of the timer interrupt process of the second sub control unit 500. FIG. 33D is a flowchart of the image control process of the second sub control unit 500.

  First, in step S401 in FIG. 33A, various initial settings are performed. When the power is turned on, an initialization process is first executed in step S401. In this initialization process, input / output port initialization, storage area initialization in the RAM 508, and the like are performed.

  In step S403, it is determined whether or not the timer variable is 10 or more. This process is repeated until the timer variable becomes 10, and when the timer variable becomes 10 or more, the process proceeds to step S405.

  In step S405, 0 is assigned to the timer variable.

  In step S407, command processing is performed. In the command processing, the CPU 504 of the second sub control unit 500 determines whether a command is received from the CPU 404 of the first sub control unit 400.

  In step S409, effect control processing is performed. Specifically, if there is a new command in step S407, processing corresponding to this command is performed. For example, a process of reading effect data for performing image control relating to the background image and effect data relating to the shutter effect from the ROM 506 is executed. In addition, it includes a process of reading other effect data from the ROM 506 and performing an effect data update process when the effect data needs to be updated.

  In step S411, shutter control processing is performed based on the processing result in step S409. For example, if there is a shutter control command in the effect data read in step S409, shutter control corresponding to this command is performed.

  In step S413, image control processing is performed based on the processing result of step S409. For example, if there is an image control command in the effect data read in step S409, image control corresponding to this command is performed. For example, image control relating to a display image (notification image, background image) is executed. This image control process will be described later with reference to FIG. When this image control process ends, the process returns to step S403.

  Next, the command reception interrupt process of the second sub control unit 500 will be described with reference to FIG. This command reception interrupt process is a process executed when the second sub control unit 500 detects the strobe signal output from the first sub control unit 400. In step S415 of the command reception interrupt process, the command output from the first sub-control unit 400 is stored as an unprocessed command in a command storage area provided in the RAM 508.

  Next, the second sub control unit timer interrupt process executed by the CPU 504 of the second sub control unit 500 will be described with reference to FIG. The second sub-control unit 500 includes a hardware timer that generates a timer interrupt at a predetermined cycle (in this embodiment, once every 2 ms), and the timer interrupt process is predetermined by using the timer interrupt as a trigger. Execute in the cycle.

  In step S417, 1 is added to the value of the timer variable storage area of the RAM 508 described in step S403 in the second sub-control unit main process shown in FIG. 33A, and the result is stored in the original timer variable storage area. Therefore, in step S403, the value of the timer variable is determined to be 10 or more every 20 ms (2 ms × 10).

  In step S419, an effect random number update process is performed.

  Next, the image control process in step S413 in the main process of the second sub control unit 500 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing the flow of image control processing.

  In step S421, an instruction to transfer image data is issued. Here, the CPU 504 first swaps the designation of the display areas A and B in the VRAM 536. As a result, an image of one frame stored in the display area not designated as the drawing area is displayed on the effect image display device 157. Next, the CPU 504 sets ROM coordinates (transfer source address of the ROM 506), VRAM coordinates (transfer destination address of the VRAM 536), and the like in the attribute register of the VDP 534 based on the position information table, and then the image from the ROM 506 to the VRAM 536. Set an instruction to start data transfer. The VDP 534 transfers the image data from the ROM 506 to the VRAM 536 based on the command set in the attribute register. Thereafter, the VDP 534 outputs a transfer end interrupt signal to the CPU 504.

  In step S423, it is determined whether or not a transfer end interrupt signal is input from the VDP 534. If a transfer end interrupt signal is input, the process proceeds to step S425. If not, a transfer end interrupt signal is input. Wait for it.

  In step S425, parameters are set based on the production scenario configuration table and attribute data. Here, in order to form a display image in the display area A or B of the VRAM 536 based on the image data transferred to the VRAM 536 in step S421, the CPU 504 includes information on the image data constituting the display image (the coordinate axis and image size of the VRAM 536). , VRAM coordinates (placement coordinates), transparency, etc.) are instructed to the VDP 534. The VDP 534 performs parameter setting in accordance with the attribute based on the instruction stored in the attribute register.

  In step S427, a drawing instruction is performed. In this drawing instruction, the CPU 504 instructs the VDP 534 to start drawing an image. The VDP 534 starts drawing an image in the frame buffer in accordance with an instruction from the CPU 504.

  In step S429, it is determined whether or not a generation end interrupt signal from the VDP 534 based on the end of image drawing has been input. If a generation end interrupt signal has been input, the process proceeds to step S431; Wait for input.

  In step S431, a scene display counter that is set in a predetermined area of the RAM 508 and counts how many scene images have been generated is incremented (+1), and the process ends.

<Operation example>
The characteristic operation of the slot machine 100 according to the present embodiment will be described below based on the above-described content.

  First, an example of an effect executed in the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. This figure is a diagram showing an example of effects performed in the present embodiment. When a predetermined number of medals are inserted and the start lever 135 is operated, a winning combination internal lottery process (step S109 in FIG. 11, FIG. 12) is executed through a winning line determination process and a random number acquisition process. Here, it is assumed that, among the chance roles, either the small role 1 or the small role 2 is won internally. In this case, an internal winning command indicating that the winning combination is won internally is transmitted to the first sub-control unit 400 (step S1023 in FIG. 12). At this time, the effect rotation standby flag is set to OFF.

  In the first sub-control unit 400, the internal winning command reception process is executed by receiving the internal winning command (step S3003 in FIG. 29, FIG. 30). Furthermore, in this process, the effect data setting process (step S3101 in FIG. 30, FIG. 31) related to the linked effect is executed. In the effect data setting process related to the linked effect, effect data corresponding to the internal winning of the chance combination is set (step S3205 executed through steps S3201 and S3203 in FIG. 31). An example of the chance combination corresponding effect executed by the effect data is shown at the leftmost end of FIG. In addition, since the linked production executed by this production data may be executed when the special combination is won internally, the special combination is won internally (advantageous to the player) It is a production that makes you expect.

  When the winning combination is won internally, the effect data is set (step S3205 in FIG. 31) followed by the linked effect pattern (since the effect rotation standby flag is off, step S3211 in FIG. 31 is executed. ). Here, it is assumed that an interlocking effect pattern for executing an interlocking effect over two games is set.

  Thereafter, when the next game is started and an internal winning command is received from the main control unit 300, effect data corresponding to the interlocked effect pattern and data for one game are set (step S3213 in FIG. 31). ). In the second column from the left in FIG. 34, an example of the linked effect (1G) executed by the effect data is shown. Further, when the next game is started, the effect data is similarly set (step S3213 in FIG. 31). In the third column from the left in FIG. 34, an example of the linked effect (2G) executed by the effect data is shown. As described above, the interlocking effects (1G and 2G) according to the set interlocking effect pattern are executed.

  In the next game, effect data setting processing related to the linked effect is executed when the internal winning command is received. Here, when the winning combination other than the chance combination is won internally, the chance combination corresponding effect and the interlocking effect are not executed again, and the normal effect is restored (steps S3201 and S3203 in FIG. 31 are used). The production data setting process is completed). The rightmost end of FIG. 34 shows a state where the normal performance is restored. If the winning combination is won internally, the chance combination corresponding effect and the linked effect are executed again.

  In the above example, the operation in the case where one of the small combination 1 and the small combination 2 of the chance combination is won internally has been described. Here, the above-mentioned internal winning role is a duplicate role with the special role among the chance roles (special role 1-small role 1, special role 1-small role 2, special role 2-small role 1, special role 2-small size If it is a combination 2), a lottery process of effect rotation is executed in the winning combination internal lottery process (step S1015 in FIG. 12). When the effect rotation lottery process is not won, as in the above example, the effect rotation standby flag is set to OFF, and the effect is executed according to the flow described above.

  On the other hand, among the chance roles, the above internal winning role is a duplicate role with a special role (special role 1-small role 1, special role 1-small role 2, special role 2-small role 1, special role 2-small role 2), when the lottery process for effect rotation is won, an effect different from the effect described in FIG. 34 is executed. Hereinafter, an example of the effect in this case will be described with reference to FIG. This figure shows an example of an effect in a situation different from FIG.

  When the effect rotation lottery process is won, an initial value is set in the execution standby counter, and the effect rotation standby flag is set to ON (steps S1019 and S1021 in FIG. 12). Afterwards, the internal winning of a duplicate role with special roles (special role 1-small role 1, special role 1-small role 2, special role 2-small role 1, special role 2-small role 2), production rotation standby An internal winning command including the flag state (ON) and the value of the execution standby counter is transmitted to the first sub-control unit 400.

  In the first sub-control unit 400, effect data setting processing (step S3101 in FIG. 30, FIG. 31) related to the linked effect is executed in the internal winning command reception processing (step S3003 in FIG. 29, FIG. 30). In the effect data setting process related to the linked effect, effect data corresponding to the internal winning of the chance combination is set (step S3205 executed through steps S3201 and S3203 in FIG. 31). An example of the chance combination corresponding effect executed by the effect data is shown at the leftmost end of FIG.

  Following the setting of the effect data (step S3205 in FIG. 31), an interlocked effect pattern is set according to the value of the execution standby counter (since the effect rotation standby flag is on, step S3209 in FIG. 31 is executed). ) As described above, the value of the execution standby counter indicates the number of games until the effect rotation is executed. Further, since the reverse rotation effect is executed during the execution of the effect rotation (details will be described later), it can be said that the value of the execution standby counter indicates the execution game (execution timing) of the reverse rotation effect. In the present embodiment, a reverse effect that is executed in accordance with the value of the execution standby counter and an interlocking effect pattern that is executed in accordance with the reverse effect are prepared. With this configuration, an effect is performed according to an interlocked effect pattern according to the value of the execution standby counter, whereby an interlocked effect combined with a reverse effect is executed. Here, it is assumed that the value of the execution standby counter is a value indicating that the reverse effect is executed in the third game. In this case, referring to the value of the execution standby counter, an interlocking effect pattern for executing the interlocking effect over the period from the next game to the game in which the reverse effect is executed (three games counted from the next game). Is set.

  Thereafter, when the next game is started and an internal winning command is received from the main control unit 300, effect data corresponding to the interlocked effect pattern and data for one game are set (step S3213 in FIG. 31). ). In the second column from the left in FIG. 35, an example of the linked effect (1G) executed by the effect data is shown. Further, when the next game is started, the effect data is similarly set (step S3213 in FIG. 31). In the third column from the left in FIG. 35, an example of the linked effect (2G) executed by the effect data is shown.

  When the special combination is won in the three games (0G to 2G) described so far, the effect rotation standby flag is set to OFF (step S1407 in FIG. 16), the special game state is set, and the reverse effect described below. And production rotation is not executed. However, when the special winning combination is not won and the internal winning remains, a linked effect including a reverse effect is executed. In the rightmost column of FIG. 35, an example of an interlocking effect (reverse effect) (3G) executed by the effect data is shown. The details of this effect will be described below with reference to FIG. The figure shows an example of a reverse effect and a linked effect.

  As described above, when the effect rotation execution lottery is won, the effect rotation standby flag is set to ON. Depending on the state of this flag, in each game so far (1G and 2G), the execution waiting counter is decremented by 1 every time the winning combination internal lottery process (step S109 in FIG. 11, FIG. 12) is executed. Yes. Further, when the execution standby counter is decremented by 1 in this game, the execution standby counter becomes 0, the effect rotation standby flag is set to OFF, and instead, the effect rotation execution flag is set to ON (step S1003 in FIG. 12). To Step S1011).

  Further, in the first sub-control unit 400 that has received the internal winning command transmitted from the main control unit 300, effect data excluding the reverse effect described later is set as effect data for one game corresponding to this interlocking effect pattern. (Step S3213 in FIG. 31). FIG. 36 shows an example of an effect executed when an internal winning command is received according to the effect data. This effect is the same effect as that shown at the rightmost end of FIG. Further, the reels 110 to 112 are not controlled when this effect is executed. FIG. 36 shows that the reels 110 to 112 are stopped when the internal winning command is received.

  In the subsequent reel rotation start process (step S113 in FIG. 11, FIG. 13), the effect rotation execution flag is set to ON, so that the effect rotation execution process is executed (step S1111 in FIG. 13, FIG. 14). In this effect rotation execution process, each reel is set to the effect rotation control state (step S1201 in FIG. 14), whereby the effect rotation control process (FIG. 27) is executed, and the reel rotates in the reverse direction.

  In addition, the first sub-control unit 400 that has received the effect rotation start command (step S1207 in FIG. 14) transmitted in the effect rotation execution process (step S3007 in FIG. 29, FIG. 32A) )) Is executed. Through this process, effect data for reverse effect is set (step S3301 in FIG. 32A). The effect rotation start command includes information indicating the value of the effect continuation counter. Until this effect continuation counter reaches 0, the reels 110 to 112 are rotated in reverse. In the first sub-control unit 400, the effect data of the reverse effect in accordance with the reverse rotation execution time is prepared, and the effect data is set according to the value of the effect continuation counter included in the effect rotation start command. The reverse rotation effect can be executed in accordance with the reverse rotation execution time. FIG. 36 shows an example of the reverse effect executed when the effect rotation start command is received. Further, it is shown that the reels 110 to 112 rotate in reverse during the reverse rotation effect. This effect rotation and reversal effect is not executed unless the special role is internally won, so it is suggested to the player that the special role is internally won (advantageous to the player). It has become a directing.

  When the effect rotation and the reverse effect are finished (the effect continuation counter is 0), the main control unit 300 brakes the reels 110 to 112 (steps S1211 and S1213 in FIG. 14), and then normal rotation is started. (After step S1105 in FIG. 13). At this time, an effect rotation end command is transmitted (step S1215 in FIG. 14).

  In the first sub-control unit 400 that has received the effect rotation end command, the effect corresponding to the effect rotation end command is executed among the effect data for one game set when the immediately preceding internal winning command is received. FIG. 36 shows an example of an effect executed when an effect rotation end command is received. Note that the characters “Bonus” displayed during the performance are displayed as an interlocking effect, not as a reverse effect. In addition, it is shown that the reels 110 to 112 rotate in the normal direction (forward rotation) during this performance.

  In this embodiment, when the AT order is set (the AT flag is turned on) and the operation order combination is won internally, an operation order suggesting effect that suggests the operation order is executed. In FIG. 36, the operation when the operation order suggesting effect is not executed has been described. However, when the condition for executing the operation order suggesting effect is satisfied, the operation order suggesting effect is executed in the situation described with reference to FIG. In the following, with reference to FIG. 37, the operation in the case where the operation order suggesting effect is executed in the game in which the effect rotation and the reverse effect are executed will be described with respect to differences from the contents described in FIG. FIG. 37 is a diagram illustrating an example of the reverse effect and the interlocking effect when the operation order suggesting effect is executed. In the operation of FIG. 37, it is assumed that the AT gaming state is set.

  As described with reference to FIG. 36, the first sub-control unit 400 sets effect data excluding the reverse effect as effect data for one game corresponding to the interlocked effect pattern (step S3213 in FIG. 31). Here, when the operation order combination is internally won, the effect data for the operation order suggesting effect is set (step S3107 is executed through step S3103 and step S3105 in FIG. 30). FIG. 37 shows an example of an effect executed when an internal winning command is received in accordance with these effect data. Compared to the effect described with reference to FIG. 36, the difference is that an operation order suggesting effect is added. Here, an example suggesting a stop operation in the order of a middle stop button 138, a right stop button 139, and a left stop button 137 is shown. The effects other than the operation order suggesting effect are the same as those described with reference to FIG.

  Subsequently, in the first sub-control unit 400 that has received the effect rotation start command (step S1207 in FIG. 14), the process at the time of effect rotation start command reception (step S3007 in FIG. 29, FIG. 32A) is executed, and vice versa. The reverse effect is executed in accordance with the rotation execution time. This reversal effect will not be executed unless a special role is won internally. Therefore, it can be said that this reversal effect is an important effect that allows the player to know that the player has won the special role internally. Therefore, the operation order suggesting effect is not performed during the effect, and there is no difference in the operation when receiving the effect rotation start command regardless of whether or not the operation order suggesting effect is executed. FIG. 37 shows that the reverse effect is executed when the effect rotation start command is received, and this content is the same as that described in FIG.

  In the first sub-control unit 400 that has received the effect rotation end command after the reverse rotation effect and the effect rotation are completed, the effect rotation end command corresponds to the effect rotation end command among the effect data for one game set when the immediately preceding internal winning command is received. Production is performed. Here, if the operation order combination is internally won, the effect data for the operation order suggesting effect is set again (step S3307 is executed via steps S3303 and S3305 in FIG. 32B). FIG. 37 shows an example of an effect executed when an effect rotation end command is received according to these effect data. Compared to the effect described with reference to FIG. 36, the difference is that an operation order suggesting effect is added. Here, an example of suggesting a stop operation in the order of the middle stop button 138, the right stop button 139, and the left stop button 137 is shown, similarly to the operation order suggesting effect at the time of receiving the internal winning command. The effects other than the operation order suggesting effect are the same as those described with reference to FIG.

<About characteristic configuration>
In the slot machine 100 of the present embodiment described above, both the operation order suggesting effect and the reverse effect are executed before the stop buttons 137 to 139 are activated (step S1305 in FIG. 15). Further, the reverse effect is executed after the operation order suggesting effect. That is, a configuration in which the operation order suggesting effect is executed before the stop operation becomes effective and a configuration in which the reverse effect is executed before the stop operation becomes effective are adopted. In addition, when the execution conditions of these effects are established in the same game, a configuration is adopted in which the operation order suggesting effect is executed before the reverse effect is executed (see FIG. 37). Hereinafter, the effect of this configuration will be described.

  The reversal effect is an effect that suggests that it is possible to shift to a special gaming state that is most advantageous to the player, and is an effect that is more important for the player than the operation order suggesting effect that suggests only the profit in the game. . Depending on the execution timing of these two effects, there is a possibility that the operation order will not be understood due to the reversal effect, or the reversal effect will not be enjoyed too much when paying attention to the operation order. In order to prevent this, for example, when the execution conditions of these two effects are satisfied in the same game, it is assumed that only the reverse effect is executed and the operation order suggesting effect is not executed. In this case, in the game in which the operation order suggesting effect is executed, the reverse effect is not executed, and there is a possibility that the player's expectation in the game is reduced. This leads to a decrease in concentration on the operation order suggesting effect, and may cause a disadvantage due to an operation mistake.

  The slot machine 100 of the present embodiment described above employs a configuration in which the operation order suggesting effect is executed before the reverse effect is executed when the execution conditions of these effects are established in the same game. According to this configuration, since a reverse effect may be executed even in a game in which the operation order suggestion effect is executed, it is possible to prevent a player's expectation from being reduced in a game in which the operation order suggestion effect is executed. Thus, it is possible to prevent an operation error caused by a decrease in concentration.

  In addition, in this embodiment, although the structure (refer operation | movement at the time of the effect rotation completion command reception of FIG. 37) which performs an operation order suggestion effect again after a reverse effect is employ | adopted, the effect of this structure is mentioned later. Note that the above-described effect of maintaining the player's expectation occurs regardless of the presence or absence of this configuration.

  The slot machine 100 of the present embodiment described above is an embodiment of the present invention, and the content thereof is not limited to the above embodiment. Hereinafter, configurations that can be adopted as the slot machine of the present invention will be described.

  First, in the present embodiment, an operation order combination (re-playing combination 1-2, re-playing combination 1-3, small combination 3a) in which a stop mode that leads to an advantageous result for the player when operated in the correct operation sequence is derived. An example in which an operation order suggesting effect that suggests this operation order is provided has been described. Here, when the stop button is operated according to a predetermined operation procedure configured by at least one of the operation order and the operation timing, it is more advantageous than when the stop button is not operated according to the predetermined operation procedure. An operation procedure combination that is a simple stop mode (or that is likely to be the same mode) may be adopted instead of the operation sequence combination. In this case, an operation procedure suggesting effect that suggests the predetermined operation procedure may be adopted instead of the operation order suggesting effect.

  As with the operation order combination of the present embodiment, the operation procedure combination may be configured using a plurality of internal winning combinations with different operation procedures from which an advantageous stop mode is derived. A single internal winning combination may be provided, and an operation procedure for deriving an advantageous stop mode when the internal winning combination is established for this combination may be determined by lottery.

  In the present embodiment, when the re-gamer 1-2 is won internally, the stop mode for winning the re-gamer 2 corresponds to an example of the above-mentioned advantageous stop mode, and when the re-gamer 1-3 is won internally The stop mode for winning the re-game player 1 corresponds to an example of the above-mentioned advantageous stop mode. In these examples, the advantageous stop mode is a stop mode that provides a gaming state that is more advantageous to the player than when an unfavorable stop mode is derived. Further, the stop mode in which the bell symbol stops at the middle stage of the middle reel 111 when the small combination 3a is won internally corresponds to an example of the above-mentioned advantageous stop mode. In this example, the advantageous stop mode is a stop mode in which more medals are paid out by the player as compared to the case where an unfavorable stop mode is derived. This advantageous stop mode is not limited to the stop mode in which the gaming state is advantageous (not disadvantageous) as in these examples, or the stop mode in which more profits are obtained, but the player eventually has more profits. Any stop mode may be used as long as it can be obtained (or expected).

  Further, in the present embodiment, the operation order combination from which two types of stop modes can be derived has been described. However, for example, two or more types of stop modes such as an operation sequence combination that can win three combinations according to the stop operation. May be derived. In this case, the advantageous stop mode may not be the most advantageous stop mode among all the stop modes, and may be any stop mode that is more advantageous than at least one stop mode (the most disadvantageous stop mode). If it is not an aspect, it is good.

  In the present embodiment, the example in which the operation order is suggested by the operation order suggesting effect has been described. Here, when the above-mentioned operation procedure combination is won internally, a part or all of the operation procedure that becomes an advantageous stop mode for the player (or is likely to become an advantageous stop mode) is given as the operation procedure suggestion effect. A suggestion (identifiable) effect may be adopted. The effect related to the operation of the stop button, such as the operation order suggesting effect and the operation procedure suggesting effect, corresponds to the first effect in the present invention. Further, as described above, the first effect may be an effect related to the operation of the stop button, and the effect means used is not limited.

  The first effect includes an effect (which can be specified) that suggests an operation procedure including a part or all of at least one of the operation order and the operation timing. For example, although the operation timing is not specified, it is executed only when a specific combination (such as a combination in which a privilege is given or a probability that a privilege is given is higher than the other one) is won internally. The production is equivalent to the first production. Furthermore, it is not limited to an effect that is executed only when this specific role is won internally, but when a specific role is won internally, it is an effect that is executed with a higher probability than when another role is internally won. However, since the player performs an operation by recalling the optimum operation timing from the production, such production also corresponds to the first production. As such effects, an image such as “CHANCE!” Shown in the leftmost part of FIG. 35 is displayed, a dedicated lamp is turned on, and a voice “chance” is output. Can be mentioned.

  Since the content of the first production described above is determined according to the result of the internal winning, it can be said that it is an effect that the internal winning result can be estimated. Here, even an effect (so-called gasse) that determines the contents regardless of the internal winning result can be adopted as the first effect. Even when such an effect is adopted, since the flow that the second effect is executed when the first effect is executed is maintained, the second when the first effect is executed is maintained. It is possible to prevent a decline in concentration by maintaining a sense of expectation for the production. The first effect in this case is an effect that conveys false information to the player. Therefore, the first effect is canceled before the stop button operation becomes effective, or the first effect is determined according to the result of internal winning. It is necessary to prevent the player from being disadvantaged by executing the correct first performance.

  In the present embodiment, the first effect is configured on the condition that an internal winning is made for the operating procedure combination in the AT gaming state. In addition to this, for example, the first effect may be configured to be executed on the condition that the internal winning combination for the operation procedure is performed. In other words, the execution condition of the first effect may be a condition in which one of the requirements for establishment is that the predetermined winning combination is won internally. Such a condition corresponds to the first condition in the present invention.

  In the present embodiment, the example of executing the reverse rotation effect indicating that the special combination is won internally has been described. As for this reversal effect, for example, an effect indicating that a privilege that makes it easy for the player to acquire profits, such as the right to set the AT gaming state or the extension of the period during which the same state is set, is given. In addition, it is only necessary to have an effect related to a game privilege. This effect related to the game privilege corresponds to the second effect in the present invention.

  The effects corresponding to the second effect include an effect to notify the number of added AT games, an effect to indicate that the AT gaming state is started or continued, and an effect to notify that the special role is internally won. Is mentioned. In addition, an effect that confirms that these benefits (addition of the number of AT games, start or continuation of the AT gaming state, internal winning of the special role), or an effect that suggests that these benefits can be easily obtained, It corresponds to the production of. In addition, as described above, the second effect may be an effect related to a game privilege, and the effect means used is not limited in the same manner as the first effect described above.

  In the present embodiment, as an example of the second effect, the configuration for executing the reverse effect performed in the final game of the linked effects over a plurality of games has been described. However, the second effect includes a plurality of continuous effects. An effect that constitutes a part of an interlocking effect executed over a game, a single effect executed in one game, or an effect that is not related to the effect in the previous game ( It may be a part of a linked effect or a single effect). If the second effect is related to the effect in the previous game, the second effect may be predicted in the direction of the effect, and the second effect when the first effect is executed. There is a risk that it will be difficult to have a sense of expectation. On the other hand, if an effect that is not related to the effect in the previous game (for example, an effect different from the effect performed in the previous game) is adopted as the second effect, it is performed in the previous game. Since there is a case where the “second effect” is performed regardless of the effect, it is easy to have a sense of expectation for the second effect when the first effect is executed. Thereby, the fall of the concentration power with respect to a game can be prevented more.

  Moreover, in this embodiment, on the condition that the production rotation start command is received, the reverse production that is an example of the second production is performed. It is not limited to such a structure, Arbitrary conditions are employable. That is, it is only necessary that the second effect is performed based on the satisfaction of an arbitrary condition, and such a condition corresponds to the second condition in the present invention.

  The first condition and the second condition described above may be conditions in which at least a part of the conditions constituting each is the same or independent, and at least when the game is started In addition, both the first condition and the second condition may be satisfied. The first effect and the second effect are effects that are executed before the operation on the stop button becomes effective, as shown in the present embodiment.

  As described above, when the first condition and the second condition are both satisfied, the second effect may be executed in the game in which the first effect is executed. In the game in which the first performance is executed, it is possible to maintain the player's expectation and prevent a decrease in concentration.

  Here, an execution example of the first effect and the second effect will be described with reference to FIG. The figure is a diagram showing an execution example of the first effect and the second effect.

  In the present embodiment, the configuration has been described in which the reverse effect, which is an example of the second effect, starts at the timing when the operation order suggesting effect, which is an example of the first effect, ends (see FIG. 37). The pattern a1 in FIG. 38A shows an example in which the first effect and the second effect are executed without overlapping. This invention produces an effect by employ | adopting the structure by which a 2nd effect is performed after the 1st effect starts. Therefore, as shown in the pattern a2 and the pattern a4, the second effect may overlap with a part of the first effect, and the second effect from the end of the first effect as shown in the pattern a3. There may be a gap until the start of the production. In addition, as shown in the examples of patterns a1 to a3, if there is a period during which at least the second performance is performed independently, both performances can be clearly recognized. A decrease can be prevented.

  In the above-described embodiment, in addition to the configuration in which the second effect is executed after the first effect starts, the configuration in which the first effect is executed again after the end of the second effect is adopted. (See FIG. 37). This configuration eliminates the disadvantage that the first effect cannot be recognized by adopting the configuration in which the second effect is executed after the first effect is started. Thus, the stop operation can be performed after confirming the first effect again. Hereinafter, an example in which the first effect is executed after the end of the second effect will be described with reference to FIG. The figure is a diagram showing an example in which the first effect is executed after the end of the second effect.

  First, the pattern b1 in FIG. 38B shows an example in which the second effect and the first effect are executed without overlapping. In order to eliminate the drawback that the first effect cannot be recognized, a configuration in which the first effect is executed after the second effect is completed may be employed. Therefore, as shown in the pattern b2 and the pattern b4, the second effect may overlap with a part of the first effect, and as shown in the pattern b3, the first effect from the end of the second effect. There may be a gap until the start of the production. In addition, as shown in the example of the patterns b1 to b3, when the first effect executed after the second effect is a configuration that does not interfere with the second effect, that is, at least the second effect is independent. If the period of time is ensured, it is possible to clearly recognize the second performance and to have a sense of expectation, thereby preventing a decrease in concentration.

  Moreover, although this embodiment is comprised so that the aspect of a 1st effect (1st time) and the aspect of a 1st effect (2nd time) may become the same aspect, these aspects are different from an aspect. You may comprise so that it may become. By comprising in this way, the effect which suppresses a player's operation mistake may be heightened. The aspect here is, for example, the size of the image to be displayed, the shape of the image to be displayed, the color of the image to be displayed, etc., and is not related to the suggested content (such as operation procedure). . In addition, although this embodiment is comprised so that a 1st effect may be performed again after a 2nd effect is performed, you may comprise so that a 1st effect may not be performed again. In the case where the first effect is performed again after the second effect is performed independently, the first effect (second time) is also started before the timing when the stop button is activated. It is preferable that it is comprised.

  Furthermore, when the combination of the patterns a4 and b4 in FIG. 38 is employed (when the first effect is continuously executed), the first effect mode is maintained after the second effect is started. It may be changed or changed. Note that the fact that the suggested content itself does not change is sometimes referred to as “continue” regardless of this mode. In this configuration, since the first effect continues, both the first effect and the second effect are prevented while preventing the player from grasping the information notified by the first effect and making an operation error. It is possible to clearly recognize and prevent a decrease in concentration.

  In the present embodiment described above, time adjustment is performed using a game interval counter in order to ensure the minimum required time between games. Depending on the value of this game interval counter, the operation order suggesting effect that is an example of the first effect may not be executed in a game that is scheduled to execute the reverse effect that is an example of the second effect. Details will be described below with reference to FIG. This figure shows the relationship between the value of the game interval counter and the first and second effects.

  First, a case where an operation order suggesting effect and a reverse effect are executed will be described. In order to execute these effects, the effect rotation is executed during the AT gaming state (the effect rotation execution flag is set to ON), and the game set in the previous game is won internally. The requirement is that the start lever 135 is operated and the game starts before the interval counter reaches zero. When this is satisfied, an internal winning command is transmitted from the main control unit 300 (step S1023 in FIG. 12), and an operation order suggesting effect (step S3107 in FIG. 30) is executed by the first sub-control unit 400. The reel rotation start process standby process (step S1101 in FIG. 13) is executed until the counter reaches zero. Thereafter, when the game interval counter reaches 0, a reel rotation start process is executed, an effect rotation is executed, and a reverse effect is executed (step S1111 in FIG. 13 and step S3301 in FIG. 32A). That is, the operation order suggesting effect is executed until the game interval counter becomes 0, and when the game interval counter becomes 0, the reverse effect is executed. FIG. 39A shows that the operation order suggesting effect (first effect) and the reverse effect (second effect) are executed in this flow.

  In the above flow, the case where the start lever 135 is operated before the game interval counter set in the previous game becomes 0 has been described. Here, a difference from the above operation when the start lever 135 is operated after the game interval counter becomes 0 will be described.

  First, when the start lever 135 is operated, the first effect is executed in the same manner as described above. However, since the game interval counter is 0, the standby process of the reel rotation start process is not executed (step S1101 in FIG. 13 does not loop), and the effect rotation and the reverse effect are executed. From the player's point of view, it appears that the reverse direction effect has been executed without the operation order suggestion being executed. FIG. 39B shows that the reverse order effect (second effect) is executed without executing the operation order suggesting effect (first effect) by this flow. However, the present invention allows the player to recognize that the second presentation will be executed after the first presentation starts, so that the game in which the first presentation has been executed has a sense of expectation. In order to prevent a decrease in concentration, a configuration that causes at least the situation shown in FIG. 39 (a) may be employed. In addition, it is not configured as in the present embodiment, and is configured so that the first effect is performed by providing a delay period that delays the start timing of the second effect regardless of the state of the game interval counter. Also good. Note that the start timing of the delay period may be before or after the subtraction of the game interval counter ends. FIG. 39 (c) shows a flow when this configuration is adopted.

  As described above, according to the present invention, since the second effect may be started after the first effect is started, the first effect is performed regardless of whether or not the second effect is performed. When performed, it is possible to prevent a decrease in concentration and to prevent an operation error.

  The present invention only needs to start the second effect after the first effect is started, and is configured so that the second effect is started without the first effect being started. The second effect may be started after starting the effect related to the operation of the stop button regardless of the internal winning combination.

  In the above-described embodiment, the above-described effect control method of the present invention is executed only in the liquid crystal display device 157, but is executed in other effect means (for example, the speakers 272, 277, various lamps 420). You may comprise. For example, the first effect may be executed using the effect means A, the second effect may be executed using the effect means B, the first effect may be executed using the effect means A and B, The effect unit B may be used to execute the second effect, and the combination of these effect units is not particularly limited. That is, this effect control method may be adopted using at least one effect means of a plurality of kinds of effect means provided in the game stand for each of the first effect and the second effect.

  If the first effect and the second effect are each configured by at least the same (common) effect means, the same effect means are continuously given to the player who has recognized the first effect. It is possible to recognize the second performance executed in step S2. In such a case, in each of the effect means other than the same effect means described above, at least one of the first effect and the second effect may be executed. Production may not be performed. In addition, it is preferable that the above-mentioned same production | presentation means are production | presentation means which can each be recognized visually.

  In addition, when it is desired to provide a period during which only the second effect is performed using one effect means (effect means A), the first effect is not performed using another effect means (effect means B). However, the first effect may be performed using the other effect means. By doing in this way, it can be made easy to pay attention to the 2nd production in one production means. In this way, the other presentation means may perform the first presentation only during the above-mentioned period, and the other presentation means has at least one of the periods before and after this period. The first effect may be performed during the period. Even in this way, it is possible to easily focus attention on the second effect in one effect means. Furthermore, in the above case, in this other effect means, the second effect may not be performed, the second effect may be performed, or the second effect is performed. Even if it exists, it can be made easy to pay attention to the 2nd production in one production means.

  In this embodiment, an example in a normal game in which a profit can be given by the stop mode of the reel has been described, but the present invention is applied to a pseudo game in which a profit is not given by the stop mode of the reel. Also good.

<Others>
In the above explanation,
A plurality of reels (for example, reels 110 to 112) which are provided with a plurality of types of symbols and are driven to rotate;
Start operating means (for example, start lever 135) operated to start rotation of the plurality of reels;
Stop operation means (for example, stop buttons 137 to 139) operated to individually stop the plurality of rotating reels;
Lottery means (for example, main control unit 300);
Stop control means (for example, main control unit 300) for executing control to stop the plurality of rotating reels based on the result of lottery by the lottery means and the result of operation on the stop operation means;
Production means (for example, a liquid crystal display device 157);
Production control means (for example, the first sub-control unit 400) for controlling the production means;
A game table that starts a game based on the operation of the start operation means, and gives a profit according to the mode of the plurality of reels stopped in the started game,
The production means is
A first effect (for example, an operation order suggesting effect) related to the operation of the stop operation means and a second effect (for example, a reverse effect) related to a privilege that facilitates acquisition of the profit can be executed. Yes,
The production control means includes
If the first condition (for example, internal winning for the operation order combination during the AT game) is satisfied when the game is started, the first effect is made before the operation to the stop operation means becomes effective. Controlling the production means so as to start
When the second condition (for example, the effect rotation execution flag is on) is satisfied when the game is started, the second effect is started before the operation on the stop operation means becomes effective. Controlling the production means;
In a specific case where both the first condition and the second condition are satisfied when the game is started (see, for example, FIG. 37), the operation before the stop operation means becomes effective. After the first effect is started (for example, the effect when the internal winning command is received in FIG. 37) and the first effect is started and before the operation on the stop operation means becomes effective, the second effect The game machine is characterized by controlling the effect means so as to start the effect (for example, the effect upon reception of the effect rotation start command in FIG. 37).

Moreover, it is a game stand as described above,
The production control means includes
In the specific case, the effect means is controlled so that there is at least a period during which the second effect is executed without the first effect being executed. A table (for example, see patterns a1 to a3 in FIG. 38A) is described.

Moreover, it is a game stand as described above,
The production control means includes
In the specific case, the stage is controlled so that the first effect and the second effect are not executed redundantly (for example, FIG. 38 (a) ) (See patterns a1 and a3).

Moreover, it is a game stand as described above,
The production control means includes
In the specific case (for example, see FIG. 37), the first effect is started again before the operation on the stop operation means becomes effective (for example, the effect at the time of receiving the effect rotation end command in FIG. 37). Thus, there is described a game table characterized by controlling the effect means.

Moreover, it is a game stand as described above,
The production means is
In the specific case, the effect means is controlled so that the aspect of the first effect executed later is different from the aspect of the first effect executed first. A characteristic game stand is described.

In the above explanation,
A plurality of reels (for example, reels 110 to 112) which are provided with a plurality of types of symbols and are driven to rotate;
Start operating means (for example, start lever 135) operated to start rotation of the plurality of reels;
Stop operation means (for example, stop buttons 137 to 139) operated to individually stop the plurality of rotating reels;
Lottery means (for example, main control unit 300);
Stop control means (for example, main control unit 300) for executing control to stop the plurality of rotating reels based on the result of lottery by the lottery means and the result of operation on the stop operation means;
Production means (for example, a liquid crystal display device 157);
Production control means (for example, the first sub-control unit 400) for controlling the production means;
A game table that starts a game based on the operation of the start operation means, and gives a profit according to the mode of the plurality of reels stopped in the started game,
The production control means includes
After the game is started, a first effect (for example, an operation order suggesting effect) related to the operation of the stop operation means and a second effect (for example, a reverse effect) related to a privilege that facilitates the acquisition of the profit And start before the operation to the stop operation means becomes effective,
In the case of at least a part of cases where both the first effect and the second effect are performed (for example, when the game interval counter is excluded from 0 in the description of FIG. 39), the first effect After starting the production, the second production is started.
The second production is
It is not following the performance performed in the previous game (for example, in the description of <characteristic configuration>, refer to the description about the relevance between the performance in the previous game and the second performance) The game table is described.

In the above explanation,
A plurality of reels (for example, reels 110 to 112) which are provided with a plurality of types of symbols and are driven to rotate;
Start operating means (for example, start lever 135) operated to start rotation of the plurality of reels;
Stop operation means (for example, stop buttons 137 to 139) operated to individually stop the plurality of rotating reels;
Lottery means (for example, main control unit 300);
Stop control means (for example, main control unit 300) for executing control to stop the plurality of rotating reels based on the result of lottery by the lottery means and the result of operation on the stop operation means;
A plurality of types of presentation means (for example, a liquid crystal display device 157, speakers 277, 277, various lamps 420);
Production control means (for example, the first sub-control unit 400) for controlling the plurality of types of production means;
A game table that starts a game based on the operation of the start operation means, and gives a profit according to the mode of the plurality of reels stopped in the started game,
The plurality of types of production means are:
Including first effect means (for example, liquid crystal display device 157) and second effect means (for example, speakers 277, 277) different from the first effect means,
The production control means includes
After the game is started, a first effect (for example, an operation order suggesting effect) related to the operation of the stop operation means and a second effect (for example, a reverse effect) related to a privilege that facilitates the acquisition of the profit And start before the operation to the stop operation means becomes effective,
In a specific case where at least a part of the cases where both the first effect and the second effect are performed (for example, when the game interval counter is excluded from 0 in the explanation of FIG. 39) , After starting the first production, start the second production,
In the specific case, the first effect is performed in the first effect means without the first effect (for example, the second effect is performed in the effect means A while the first effect is performed in the first effect means. There is a specific period in which the production means A is not performed)
At least in the specific period, there is described a game table characterized by causing the second effect means to perform the first effect (for example, the first effect is performed by the effect means B). .

In the above explanation,
A plurality of reels (for example, reels 110 to 112) which are provided with a plurality of types of symbols and are driven to rotate;
Start operating means (for example, start lever 135) operated to start rotation of the plurality of reels;
Stop operation means (for example, stop buttons 137 to 139) operated to individually stop the plurality of rotating reels;
Lottery means (for example, main control unit 300);
Stop control means (for example, main control unit 300) for executing control to stop the plurality of rotating reels based on the result of lottery by the lottery means and the result of operation on the stop operation means;
Production means (for example, a liquid crystal display device 157);
Production control means (for example, the first sub-control unit 400) for controlling the production means;
A game table that starts a game based on the operation of the start operation means, and gives a profit according to the mode of the plurality of reels stopped in the started game,
The production control means includes
After the game is started, a first effect (for example, an operation order suggesting effect) related to the operation of the stop operation means and a second effect (for example, a reverse effect) related to a privilege that facilitates the acquisition of the profit And start before the operation to the stop operation means becomes effective,
In a specific case where at least a part of the cases where both the first effect and the second effect are performed (for example, when the game interval counter is excluded from 0 in the explanation of FIG. 39) , After starting the first production, start the second production,
In the specific case, the first effect is continuously performed even after the second effect is started (for example, description of a case where a combination of patterns a4 and b4 is adopted in the description of FIG. 38). A game table characterized by the above description).

100 slot machine 110 to 112 reel 113 display window 130 to 132 bet button 135 start lever 137 to 139 stop button 157 liquid crystal display device 272, 277 speaker 420 various lamps 300 main control unit 400 first sub control unit 500 second sub control unit

Claims (1)

A plurality of reels that are subjected to multiple types of designs and are driven to rotate,
Start operation means operated to start rotation of the plurality of reels;
Stop operation means operated to individually stop the plurality of rotating reels;
Lottery means;
Stop control means for executing control for stopping the plurality of rotating reels based on the result of the lottery by the lottery means and the result of the operation on the stop operation means;
Directing means;
Production control means for controlling the production means;
A game table that starts a game based on the operation of the start operation means, and gives a profit according to the mode of the plurality of reels stopped in the started game,
The production control means includes
Each of the first effect relating to the operation of the stop operation means and the second effect relating to the privilege for facilitating the acquisition of the profit is after the game has started and before the operation on the stop operation means becomes effective. To start with
In a specific case that is at least a part of cases where both the first effect and the second effect are performed, the second effect is started after the first effect is started. Let
In the specific case, the game machine is characterized in that the first effect is continuously performed even after the second effect is started.