JP6383697B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine.

  Conventionally, one of a plurality of lottery objects is internally drawn, and one of a plurality of symbols is stopped on the winning line based on the internal lottery result and the operation mode of the stop operation for the variable display of symbols by the player, There is known a gaming machine that gives a privilege corresponding to a combination when a combination is established by a combination of symbols stopped on a winning line (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

  Recently, in order to improve the gameability of such a gaming machine, an assist time state (hereinafter referred to as an “AT state”) that informs the pressing order and operation timing of a plurality of stop buttons that accept a stop operation of variable display of symbols, A gaming machine having an ART state combined with a replay time state (hereinafter referred to as an “RT state”), which is a game state in which a re-player is elected with a high probability as compared with a normal game state, has become widespread. . For example, Patent Literature 1 discloses a gaming machine that provides an ART state according to the number of game media acquired in a bonus game state.

  In the prior art represented by this Patent Document 1, since the player acquires medals through the bonus game state and the ART state, the player shifts to the ART state with appropriate variation while maintaining the expectation for the ART state. Is important.

JP 2009-005978 A

  However, with the conventional technology, it has been difficult to maintain a sense of expectation for the ART state. For example, if the transition to the ART state is randomly determined, it is felt that a game that has not led to the transition to the ART state has been wasted. Therefore, when the game continues without being connected to the ART state, the motivation to continue the game is lost.

  Thus, the number of games played without shifting to the ART state is managed, and when a predetermined number of games is reached, a so-called ceiling is set to shift to the ART state. In such a configuration, since the progress of the game itself is a means for acquiring the ART state, it is a motivation to continue the game in anticipation of the ART state.

  However, if the number of games up to the ceiling is clearly indicated, gaming machines with a large number of games up to the ceiling will be avoided and the operating rate will decrease. On the other hand, if the number of games up to the ceiling is unknown, it will be difficult for the player to determine which number of games has a chance, so the player can feel that he is approaching the ART state by continuing the game. It is hard to be deceived and the expectation to the ART state is impaired.

  For these reasons, it has become an important issue how to maintain the expectation of the ART state. Such a problem occurs not only in the ART state but also in the case of shifting the state of the gaming machine.

  The present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems of the prior art, and aims to maintain the player's expectation regarding the transition of the state of the gaming machine.

  The present invention will be described below. In order to facilitate understanding of the invention, reference numerals and the like in the accompanying drawings are appended in parentheses, but the present invention is not limited to the display form.

  In order to solve the above-described problems and achieve the object, the present invention is an internal lottery of any of a plurality of lottery objects, and an operation mode of a stop operation for an internal lottery result and variable display of symbols by a player. A gaming machine that stops one of a plurality of symbols on a winning line, and grants a privilege according to the combination when a combination is established by the combination of symbols stopped on the winning line. A period selection means (14a) for selecting any one of the periods, a counter (14b) to be added as the game progresses, and a value of the counter that is an integral multiple of the period selected by the period selection means And a transition lottery means (14c) for performing a lottery relating to the transition of the gaming state.

  In the present invention, the transfer lottery means and the internal lottery means for performing the internal lottery are provided on the same substrate (10a).

  Further, the present invention is characterized in that, in the above invention, each of the plurality of periods other than the shortest period is a multiple of the shortest period.

  Further, the present invention is characterized in that, in the above invention, each of the periods other than the shortest period among the plurality of periods is a multiple of all the periods shorter than the own period.

  Further, according to the present invention, in the above invention, the transition lottery means stores a correspondence relationship in which the type of the period selected by the period selector and the value of the counter that performs the lottery are associated with each other, and the counter adds In such a case, it is determined whether or not to perform the lottery with reference to the correspondence relationship.

  Further, the present invention is the above invention, wherein, when the counter is added, the transition lottery means determines whether the value of the added counter is an integer multiple of the period selected by the period selection means. Is determined by calculation.

  The present invention further includes a transition determining means (14d) for determining transition of a gaming state when the value of the counter is a predetermined number of times the period selected by the period selecting means in the above invention. It is characterized by that.

  Further, according to the present invention, in the above invention, for each of the plurality of periods, when it is assumed that the period is selected, the timing at which the next lottery is performed by the transition lottery means is displayed on a predetermined display unit. The display control means (21a) is further provided.

  Further, in the present invention according to the above-described invention, the display control unit may determine, for each of the plurality of periods, a relationship between a value that is an integral multiple of the period and the value of the counter as a positional relationship between two points. It is characterized by visual expression.

  Further, the present invention is characterized in that, in the above-mentioned invention, the display control means expresses a display position indicating a value that is an integral multiple of each of the plurality of periods to be the same position.

  In the present invention, the counter is selected by the cycle selection unit when the counter has a value for lottery by the transition lottery unit if any of the plurality of cycles is selected. It further comprises lottery effect means (21b) for performing effects related to the lottery by the transition lottery means regardless of the period in which it is present.

  In the present invention, the counter is incremented for each game.

  Further, the present invention is characterized in that, in the above-mentioned invention, the period selecting means selects one of the plurality of periods by performing lottery at the predetermined timing.

  Further, the present invention is characterized in that, in the above-mentioned invention, the transition lottery means determines by lottery whether or not to shift to a special gaming state in which notification according to the operation mode is performed.

  Also, the present invention is characterized in that, in the above invention, the period selecting means selects any of the plurality of periods at a predetermined timing from the start to the end of the special gaming state.

  Here, terms used in this specification will be described. First, “reel” refers to a display row in which a plurality of symbols are arranged on the peripheral surface. A plurality of reels are provided in the gaming machine. The “reel window” refers to one that is installed on the front surface of a gaming machine and that allows a player to visually recognize a part of a plurality of symbols arranged on the reel. The “stop symbol” refers to a symbol that is visible to the player through the reel window among a plurality of symbols arranged on the stopped reel.

  “Game media” refers to medals or game balls used in gaming machines. “Credit” refers to information indicating the number of game media electrically or magnetically stored in the gaming machine, and the number is referred to as the number of credits. “Bet” refers to setting a game medium necessary to start a game. The betting game medium is consumed at the start of the game. “Number of bets” means the number of game media set to start a game.

  “Game” refers to a series of processes from the start of reel rotation until the end of the process based on the winning determination result. “One game” and “one game” refer to one time of the series of processes. The “start lever” refers to a device that a player operates to instruct the start of a game.

  “Combination” is a type of a combination of symbols associated with a predetermined privilege, and refers to a minimum unit to be won. A bonus combination, a small combination, and a re-playing combination are roughly classified according to the type of privilege granted in accordance with the winning combination.

  The “push order small combination” is a combination of a plurality of small combinations that are simultaneously won by internal lottery, and a small combination to be won is determined by the push order. Of the plurality of small combinations included in the push order small combination, the small combination advantageous to the player is referred to as “Push order correct answer small combination”, and the disadvantageous combination for the player is referred to as “Push order incorrect answer small combination”. In addition, winning a plurality of small combinations included in the push order small combination at the same time is referred to as “winning of the push order small combination”.

  The “push order re-game player” is a combination of a plurality of re-game players who are simultaneously won by internal lottery, and the re-game player to win is determined by the push order of the stop button. Of the multiple re-playing players included in the push-order re-playing role, the re-playing role advantageous to the player is `` Push-order correct answer re-playing role '', and the re-playing role disadvantageous to the player is `` Push-order incorrect answer re-playing It is called a “role”. In addition, the fact that a plurality of re-game players included in the push-order re-game player win at the same time is referred to as “push-order re-game player win”.

  The push order small role and the push order re-playing role are called “push order role”. The push order correct answer small role and the push order correct answer replay role are referred to as “push order correct answer role”. The push order incorrect answer small role and the push order incorrect answer replay role are referred to as “push order incorrect answer”. The “correct answer push order” refers to a push order in which a push order correct answer wins a prize in a push order role. “Illegal answer pressing order” refers to a pressing order in which the pressing order incorrect answering prize wins in the pressing order combination.

  “Internal lottery” refers to determining the winning or losing of one or more roles in response to the operation of the start lever. “Winning” means that a winning combination is determined as a result of an internal lottery. “Lose” means a state in which no combination is determined as a result of the internal lottery. The “stop button” refers to a device that is operated by the player to instruct to stop the rotating reel. A plurality of stop buttons respectively corresponding to a plurality of reels are provided in the gaming machine.

  “Winning” means that the combination of the stopped symbols on the activated winning line matches the symbol combination corresponding to the combination. “Non-winning” means that the combination of the stopped symbols on the activated winning line does not match the symbol combination corresponding to the combination. In the case of a non-winning prize, either a combination of symbols corresponding to a combination is not aligned on the activated winning line by operating the stop button even though one of the winning combinations has been won by an internal lottery. There is a case where the combination of the stopped symbols on the winning line that has been activated due to the loss is not the same as the combination of symbols corresponding to the combination. Also, the former case is called “missing”.

  “Winning flag” refers to data that stores a winning combination by an internal lottery. As a general rule, the winning flag set based on the result of the internal lottery is cleared at the end of one game.

  The “winning line” refers to a combination of predetermined symbol positions that are targets for determining winning. The winning determination changes from an invalid state to an effective state according to the bet. “On the activated winning line” means a symbol position related to the winning line that has been changed to an effective state.

  “Number of payouts” refers to the number of game media to be paid out in correspondence with the winning combination, and when multiple winnings are made through multiple winning lines, the total number of dividends given to each winning combination It becomes. However, an upper limit “15 (sheets)” is set for the number of payouts, and when the total number of payouts given to each combination exceeds 15, the upper limit of 15 is the number of payouts. Become.

  “Releasing rate” means the ratio of the number of payouts to the number of bets (the number of payouts / the number of bets). When the payout rate is 1 (100%), the number of bets and the number of payouts are the same value. Means.

  According to the present invention, the gaming machine selects any one of a plurality of periods at a predetermined timing, adds a counter according to the progress of the game, and when the value of the counter becomes an integral multiple of the selected period, A lottery related to the transition of the gaming state is performed. With this configuration, it is possible to maintain the player's expectation regarding the transition of the state of the gaming machine.

  Further, according to the present invention, the transfer lottery and the internal lottery can be performed on the same substrate. Further, according to the present invention, since each of the periods other than the shortest period among the plurality of periods is a multiple of the shortest period, the transition lottery timings in the plurality of periods can be matched with high probability. . Further, if each of the plurality of periods other than the shortest period is a multiple of all the periods shorter than the own period, the transition lottery timing in one period is in all the periods shorter than the period. It becomes the timing of the transfer lottery, and the player's expectation can be specialized in a short cycle.

  Further, according to the present invention, a correspondence relationship in which a plurality of types of periods and values of counters for lottery are associated is stored, and whether or not lottery is performed with reference to the correspondence table when the counter is added. Therefore, state transition can be managed using a correspondence table having a small data size.

  Further, according to the present invention, when the counter is added, it is determined by calculation whether or not the value of the added counter is an integral multiple of the selected period. The data size according to can be further reduced.

  Further, according to the present invention, when the value of the counter becomes a predetermined number of times the selected period, the transition of the gaming state is determined without depending on the lottery, so that excessive variation in the payout rate can be suppressed. .

  Further, according to the present invention, for each of a plurality of cycles, when it is assumed that the cycle has been selected, the timing at which the next lottery is performed is displayed on the predetermined display unit, so that the player can see the current cycle. Can be estimated, and a sense of expectation for the transfer lottery can be maintained.

  Further, according to the present invention, for each of a plurality of cycles, the relationship between the value that is an integral multiple of the cycle and the value of the counter is visually expressed as a positional relationship between two points. It is possible to clearly notify the player of the timing of the transfer lottery.

  In addition, according to the present invention, the display position indicating a value that is an integral multiple of each of a plurality of cycles is expressed so as to be the same position, so that a plurality of cycles can be used simultaneously as the transition lottery timing. Can be clearly notified.

  In addition, according to the present invention, if the counter has a value for lottery if any of a plurality of periods is selected, the lottery effect is performed regardless of the selected period. It is possible to avoid easy identification of the game and improve game play.

  Further, according to the present invention, since the counter is added for each game, the transition management of the state of the gaming machine can be performed based on the number of games.

  Further, according to the present invention, since any one of a plurality of cycles is selected by lottery, the cycle can be selected at random, and the payout rate can be appropriately varied.

  Further, according to the present invention, since it is determined by lottery whether or not to shift to the special gaming state in which the notification relating to the operation mode is performed, it is possible to manage the transition to a state advantageous to the player. At this time, any one of a plurality of cycles may be selected at a predetermined timing from the start to the end of the special gaming state.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating an appearance of the gaming machine according to the embodiment. FIG. 2 is an explanatory view showing the structure of the variable reel display device of the gaming machine. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the internal configuration of the gaming machine. FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure of one game in the gaming machine. FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the game state set by the game state setting unit. FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram of the ART lottery and the AT state. FIG. 7 is a specific example of a lottery game number table and a confirmed game number table. FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure related to the ART lottery. FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram of a specific example of display by the lottery time display processing unit. FIG. 10 is a configuration diagram when the AT processing unit is provided on the sub-control board.

  Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of a gaming machine according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

  FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating an appearance of a gaming machine 1 (slot machine) according to the embodiment. The gaming machine 1 includes a box-shaped main body 2 having an open front surface and a front door 3 disposed on the front surface of the main body 2. The main body 2 and the front door 3 are fixed on one side by a hinge so that they can be opened and closed.

  The front door 3 includes a reel window 30, a bet button 31, a start lever 32, stop buttons 33a to 33c, a checkout button 34, an information display unit 35, a medal slot 36a, a medal payout port 37a, a medal tray 37b, and a display 41. And a speaker 42 are arranged.

  The main body 2 is provided with a variable reel display device 50 including reels 51a to 51c. The reel 51a is a reel provided on the left side when viewed from the player. The reel 51b is a reel provided in the center as viewed from the player. The reel 51c is a reel provided on the right side when viewed from the player. The reel window 30 is made of a transparent acrylic plate that allows three consecutive symbols per reel, and the player can view nine symbols on the three reels through the reel window 30.

  The gaming machine 1 starts rotating the reels 51a to 51c when the start lever 32 is operated after the winning line is activated by betting. A bet is made by inserting a medal, operating the bet button 31, or winning a re-gamer.

  The stop button 33a is a button for accepting an operation for stopping the rotation of the reel 51a. The stop button 33b is a button for accepting an operation for stopping the rotation of the reel 51b. The stop button 33c is a button for accepting an operation for stopping the rotation of the reel 51c.

  After the reels 51a to 51c start rotating, the first operation among the stop buttons 33a to 33c is the first stop operation, the next operation is the second stop operation, and the last operation is the third stop operation. Let's say. Of the stop buttons 33a to 33c, the first pressed button is the first stop button, the next pressed button is the second stop button, and the last pressed button is the third stop button.

  The information display unit 35 is a display unit that displays the number of credits, the number of payouts, and the like. The number of credits is added by inserting a medal into the medal insertion slot 36a or winning a small role, and is subtracted by betting.

  An upper limit is set for the number of credits. When the number of credits exceeds the upper limit due to winning, the excess medals are discharged from the medal payout opening 37a. Further, when the settlement button 34 is operated, medals for the number of credits are paid out from the medal payout opening 37a. The medals discharged from the medal payout opening 37a are stored in the medal tray 37b. The display device 41 is composed of a liquid crystal display or the like, and displays an image according to the progress state of the game. The speaker 42 outputs BGM or the like corresponding to the game state or the like.

  Note that the gaming machine 1 in this embodiment is a so-called one-line machine, and has a horizontal winning line E1 at the middle display position of the reel window 30. That is, the upper display position on the reel 51a is U1, the middle display position is M1, the lower display position is D1, the upper display position on the reel 51b is U2, the middle display position is M2, and the lower display position is D2. When the upper display position on the reel 51c is U3, the middle display position is M3, and the lower display position is D3, the winning line E1 corresponds to the middle display positions M1-M2-M3 on the reels 51a to 51c. Yes.

  Next, the structure of the variable reel display device 50 will be described. FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing the structure of the variable reel display device 50 of the gaming machine 1. FIG. 2A shows the entire structure of the reel variable display device 50, and shows a state in which the reel 51c is removed to show the inside of the reel variable display device 50. FIG. FIG. 2B shows the detailed structure of the reel 51c.

  The reel 51c has 21 various symbols (symbol numbers PN = 1 to 21) around a reel frame 52c made of transparent ABS resin or the like having a plurality of spoke portions extending radially from the shaft portion and an annular frame. ) Is printed and a reel band 53c is pasted. Although the structure of the reel 51c has been described here, the reel 51a and the reel 51b have the same configuration, and the reel band 53a is attached to the reel frame 52a of the reel 51a, and the reel band 52b of the reel 51b is reel band. 53b is pasted. Note that the reel frames 52a and 52b and the reel bands 53a and 53b are not shown.

  The reels 51 a to 51 c are inserted along guide rails 61 a to 61 c corresponding to the respective reels provided above and below the case body 60 of the reel variable display device 50, and are accommodated in the case body 60.

  The reel 51c is fixed to the stepping motor 64c and rotates. For the rotation of the reel 51c, a stepping motor 64c that rotates once by supplying a pulse of 504 steps is used, and a predetermined symbol can be displayed on the reel window 30 by supplying a pulse of a predetermined number of steps. Further, a backlight device 63c provided with LEDs is provided so that light can be irradiated from the inside of the reel band 53c. Thus, by irradiating light from the inside of the reel band 53c with the backlight device 63c, the player can make the symbols on the reel band 53c stand out.

  A detection plate 54c is attached to one of the spoke portions, and a reel position detection sensor 65c can output a 1-pulse reel position detection signal every time the reel 51c rotates once. The positions of the detection plate 54c and the reel band 53c are set so that the symbol of the symbol number PN = 1 is positioned on the winning line E1 in the center of the reel window 30 at the timing when the reel position detection signal is detected.

  The reel 51c, the stepping motor 64c to which the reel 51c is fixed, the backlight device 63c, and the reel position detection sensor 65c are fixed to the base plate 62c to form one unit. In this unit, the base plate 62c is inserted along the guide rail 61c and accommodated in the case body 60.

  Although the stepping motor 64c, the backlight device 63c, the detection plate 54c, and the reel position detection sensor 65c are not shown, the reel 51a has a stepping motor 64a, a backlight device 63a, a detection plate 54a, and a reel position detection sensor 65a, respectively. Correspondingly, the reel 51b corresponds to the stepping motor 64b, the backlight device 63b, the detection plate 54b, and the reel position detection sensor 65b.

  Next, the internal configuration of the gaming machine 1 will be described. FIG. 3 is a configuration diagram showing the internal configuration of the gaming machine 1. As shown in FIG. 3, the gaming machine 1 includes a main control board 10 that mainly controls games and a sub-control board 20 that mainly produces effects.

  The main control board 10 includes a control unit 10a and an input / output unit 10b. The control part 10a is implement | achieved by CPU (central processing unit) etc., for example. The input / output unit 10 b is an interface for performing input / output of the main control board 10. The input / output unit 10b receives input based on the player's operation from the bet button 31, the start lever 32, the stop buttons 33a to 33c, and the checkout button 34. Further, the input / output unit 10b receives an input of a reel position detection signal indicating that the detection plates 54a to 54c are detected from the reel position detection sensors 65a to 65c. The input / output unit 10b outputs a display control signal to the information display unit 35 and outputs a control signal to the stepping motors 64a to 64c. Further, the input / output unit 10 b performs input / output of the medal receiving unit 36 and the medal paying unit 37.

  The medal acceptance unit 36 includes a sensor that detects a medal inserted into the medal insertion slot 36a, and inputs a detection signal from the sensor to the input / output unit 10b. Further, when an output that restricts the insertion of medals is made by the input / output unit 10b, insertion of medals is suppressed.

  The medal payout unit 37 pays out medals from the medal payout port 37a when the input / output unit 10b outputs an instruction to pay out medals. The medal payout unit 37 includes a sensor that detects the payout medal, and inputs a detection signal from the sensor to the input / output unit 10b.

  The control unit 10 a includes a game processing unit 11, a game state setting unit 12, a payout control unit 13, and an AT processing unit 14. The game processing unit 11 executes processing for one game by performing bet control, internal lottery, reel control, and winning determination.

  In the bet control, the game processing unit 11 places a bet when the input / output unit 10b receives operation information related to insertion of medals, when the operation information of the bet button 31 is received, or when a re-game player wins a prize. Then, the winning line E1 is validated. Furthermore, the game processing unit 11 performs control to prohibit betting until one game is completed after the input / output unit 10b receives an operation of the start lever 32.

  In the internal lottery, the game processing unit 11 generates a random value in response to the operation of the start lever 32, and determines the winning or losing of one or more combinations with reference to the lottery table. One random number is determined within a certain range of numerical values, for example, a range of 0 to 65535. The lottery table defines random values corresponding to a plurality of lottery objects, and one lottery object is determined by specifying the random value. Each lottery object is set to win or lose one or more roles.

  Note that the lottery table can vary depending on the game state. The game processing unit 11 uses a lottery table corresponding to the current game state set by the game state setting unit 12 for internal lottery.

  In the reel control, the game processing unit 11 controls the rotation and stop of the reel. The game processing unit 11 controls to stop the reels 51a to 51c based on the result of the internal lottery, the pressing order, and the timing at which the stop buttons 33a to 33c are pressed. After the second stop operation, information indicating the stop position of the stopped reel is also used for stop control.

  In the winning determination, after all the reels 51a to 51c are controlled to stop, the game processing unit 11 determines the winning combination based on the combination of stop symbols controlled to be stopped on the activated winning line E1. The game processing unit 11 outputs a determination result to the game state setting unit 12, the payout control unit 13, and the AT processing unit 14.

  The game state setting unit 12 is a processing unit that sets the game state of the gaming machine 1. The game state of the gaming machine 1 includes a game state corresponding to a replay time state (hereinafter referred to as “RT state”) in which a re-gamer is won with high probability, and a win probability of the re-gamer is lower than that in the RT state. Game state. The game state setting unit 12 changes the game state on condition that the combination of specific symbols has stopped on the winning line E1.

  The payout control unit 13 adds the number of medals paid out according to the small combination to the number of credits when the small combination has won as a result of the winning determination. When the number of credits exceeds the upper limit “50”, the medal payout unit 37 pays out the surplus medals.

  The AT processing unit 14 is a processing unit that switches between an AT state that notifies the correct pressing order by image and sound control and a non-AT state that does not notify the correct pressing order. The AT state and the non-AT state are set independently of the game state set by the game state setting unit 12.

  Here, in the gaming machine 1, as a reference pressing order for operating the stop buttons 33a to 33c in the non-AT state (hereinafter referred to as “reference pressing order”), a pressing order for stopping the reel 51a by the first stop operation. Is recommended. And, as will be described later, as for the combination of symbols that triggers the transition to the RT state where the re-gamer is won with high probability, a pressing order other than the standard pressing order (hereinafter referred to as “anomalous pressing order”) is input. In this case, the game stops on the winning line E1, so that in the non-AT state where the push order is not notified, the game state other than the RT state is stayed.

  The AT processing unit 14 performs an ART lottery to determine whether or not to grant the ART state right by lottery. The ART state is a state in which the AT state is set by the AT processing unit 14 and the RT state is set by the game state setting unit 12. A state in which the AT state is set by the AT processing unit 14 but the game state set in the game state setting unit 12 has not shifted to the RT state is referred to as an ART ready state. Granting ART state rights as a result of the ART lottery is referred to as ART right winning. If the ART right is won, the AT processing unit 14 enters the AT state. At this time, the game state set by the game state setting unit 12 is not the RT state, and thus is in the ART preparation state.

  If the push order small combination is won in the AT state, the AT processing unit 14 notifies the correct push order of the push order correct combination. The push order correct answer winning combination is the winning combination having the largest payout among the winning combinations included in the winning push order winning combination.

  Also, if the push order re-gamer is won in the ART ready state, the AT processing unit 14 notifies the correct push order of the push-order correct game player. The push order correct answer re-gamer is a re-game player in which combinations of symbols that trigger the transition to the RT state are arranged on the winning line E1 among the re-game players included in the selected push-order re-game player.

  The AT processing unit 14 includes a periodic mode selection unit 14a, a counter 14b, a transition lottery unit 14c, and a transition determination unit 14d as processing units related to the ART lottery.

  The periodic mode selection unit 14a is a processing unit that selects a periodic mode. The cycle mode defines an interval for executing the ART lottery. For example, if the 32-cycle mode is selected, an ART lottery is performed every 32 games. In the present embodiment, the cycle mode selection unit 14a selects any one of the 32 cycle mode, the 64 cycle mode, the 128 cycle mode, and the 256 cycle mode by lottery. The cycle defined by the cycle mode selected in this way is called the current cycle.

  The periodic mode selection unit 14a performs lottery of the periodic mode at a predetermined timing from the start to the end of the ART state. For example, it is preferable to carry out at the end of the ART state. In addition, even when the gaming machine 1 is reset, a lottery in the periodic mode can be performed. Moreover, it is good also as selecting a period mode not according to a lottery but according to a predetermined rule.

  The counter 14b counts the number of games continued in the non-AT state. That is, the value of the counter 14b is incremented by 1 for each game in the non-AT state, and the value of the counter 14b is reset when the AT state is reached.

  The transfer lottery unit 14c executes the ART lottery based on the value of the counter 14b and the current cycle. Specifically, the ART lottery is executed when the value of the counter 14b is an integral multiple of the current period. The number of games for which the value of the counter 14b is an integral multiple of the current period is referred to as the number of lottery games.

  Based on the value of the counter 14b and the current period, the transition determination unit 14d grants the ART state right without performing the ART lottery. Specifically, the right of the ART state is granted when the value of the counter 14b is a predetermined number of times (for example, 4 times) the current period. The number of games in which the value of the counter 14b is a predetermined number of times the current cycle is referred to as the determined number of games.

  Thus, by setting the so-called ceiling that grants the ART state right regardless of the ART lottery, it is possible to avoid a situation in which the state that does not shift to the ART state continues excessively.

  If the ART state right is won by the ART lottery or the ART state right is given by the ceiling, the AT processing unit 14 starts the AT state. Although details will be described later, after the AT state starts, the ART preparation state is first entered. In the ART ready state, when the push order small combination or the push order re-game combination is won, the correct push order is notified. When the push order re-gamer wins and the operation is performed in the correct push order, the combination of symbols that trigger the transition to the RT state can be aligned on the winning line E1.

  If the combination of symbols that trigger the transition to the RT state is aligned with the winning line E1, the game state setting unit 12 shifts the game state to the RT state. In addition, the AT processing unit 14 identifies the transition to the RT state and enters the ART state.

  If the ART state is entered, the AT processing unit 14 notifies the correct pressing order when the pressing order small combination is won. This ART state ends with a predetermined number of games. After determining the end of the ART state, the AT processing unit 14 enters the non-AT state.

  The sub control board 20 is a control board belonging to the lower level of the main control board 10 and information is input from the main control board 10, but information cannot be input from the sub control board 20 to the main control board 10. It is like that.

  The sub control board 20 includes a control unit 20a and an output unit 20b. The control unit 20a is realized by a CPU, for example. The output unit 20 b is an interface that outputs the sub control board 20. The output unit 20b outputs a display control signal to the display 41, outputs an audio signal to the speaker 42, and outputs lighting control to the backlight devices 63a to 63c.

  The control unit 20 a includes an effect control unit 21. The effect control unit 21 receives various commands from the main control board 10, controls the display of the effect image accompanying the game on the display 41, controls the lighting of the backlight devices 63 a to 63 c, and sounds such as BGM to the speaker 42. Control the sound output from. In the AT state, the effect control unit 21 performs control to display information indicating the correct pressing order on the display 41.

  Further, the effect control unit 21 performs an effect related to the ART lottery. The effect control unit 21 includes a lottery time display processing unit 21a and a lottery effect unit 21b as processing units related to the ART lottery effect.

  The lottery time display processing unit 21a displays, on the display 41, the timing at which the next ART lottery is performed for each of the plurality of cycle modes, assuming that the cycle mode is selected. With this display, the player advances the game in anticipation of the next ART lottery while estimating the current period.

  The lottery presentation unit 21b performs an effect using the display 41 and the speaker 42 when the ART lottery is executed. Specifically, the ART lottery effect is performed when the value of the counter 14b is an integral multiple of the current period.

  The lottery effect section 21b also performs an ART lottery effect even when the ART state right is granted from the ceiling. In this case, the ART lottery has not been performed, and the grant of the ART state right has been confirmed. However, by performing the ART lottery, the ART state right has been granted by the lottery or granted by the ceiling. It can be made indistinguishable from the player.

  Furthermore, the lottery presentation unit 21b performs an ART lottery effect even when the value of the counter 14b is an integral multiple of a period other than the current period. In this case, the ART lottery is not performed, and the ART state right is not granted, but by performing the ART lottery, the player may not be able to identify the current cycle. it can.

  Next, a processing procedure for one game in the gaming machine 1 will be described. FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure of one game in the gaming machine 1. First, the game processing unit 11 determines whether or not an automatic bet process has been performed in the previous game (step S101). If automatic bet processing has been performed in the previous game (step S101; Yes), the process proceeds to step S103.

  If an automatic bet process has not been performed in the previous game (step S101; No), the game processing unit 11 determines whether or not a bet operation has been performed by inserting a medal or pressing the bet button 31 (step S102). ). If no betting operation has been performed (step S102; No), the game processing unit 11 waits until a betting operation is performed (step S102).

  When the betting operation is performed (step S102; Yes), or when the automatic betting process is performed in the previous game (step S101; Yes), the game processing unit 11 determines whether the start lever 32 has been operated. It is determined whether or not (step S103). If the start lever 32 is not operated (step S103; No), the game processing unit 11 waits until the start lever 32 is operated (step S103). When the operation of the start lever 32 is performed (step S103; Yes), the game processing unit 11 prohibits betting (step S104).

  Next, the game processing unit 11 generates one random value in the range of 0 to 65535 (step S105). Moreover, the game processing part 11 selects the lottery table according to a game state (step S106). Then, the game processing unit 11 determines the lottery object by comparing the generated random number value with the selected lottery table, and sets the winning flag of the combination included in the lottery object (step S107).

  In the gaming machine 1, the elapsed time required for one game is measured in order to prevent the player from consuming many medals in a short time. In this embodiment, the minimum consumption time of one game is 4.1 seconds, and 15 games or more cannot be executed per minute. Therefore, even if the start lever 32 is operated in step S103, if 4.1 seconds have not elapsed since the start of rotation of the reel of the previous game (step S108; No), the reels 51a to 51c are not rotated. The player enters the standby state and informs the player that the standby state has been reached with a lamp or sound. If 4.1 seconds have elapsed from the start of rotation of the reel of the previous game (step S108; Yes), the game processing unit 11 drives the stepping motors 64a to 64c to move the three reels 51a to 51c. Rotate (step S109).

  The game processing unit 11 shifts all three reels 51a to 51c to a constant rotation speed through a predetermined acceleration period. It is detected that the three reels 51a to 51c have reached a constant rotational speed, this detection time is set as a reference time, measurement of the remaining time from the reference time until the automatic stop time elapses is started, and stop buttons 33a to 33c are started. The LED built in the stop button is turned on to notify that the reception of 33c is possible.

  And the game processing part 11 performs the reel stop process which stops the three reels 51a-51c (step S110). In the reel stop process, when the player inputs the stop buttons 33a to 33c, based on the lottery object determined in step S107 and the symbol position on the corresponding reel obtained at the stop button operation timing. Thus, the stop position of the reel is determined, and the winding phase of the stepping motors 64a to 64c is excited in all phases to give a braking force, thereby stopping the target reel. When the automatic stop time has elapsed from the reference time (when the remaining time runs out), even if the stop buttons 33a to 33c are not operated, the stop position of the reel is determined and the winding of the stepping motors 64a to 64c is performed. The target reel is stopped by applying a braking force by exciting all phases of the line phase.

  When all the reels are stopped, the game processing unit 11 determines whether or not a winning combination is made depending on whether or not the combination of the stopped symbols on the winning line E1 matches the combination of symbols corresponding to the winning combination (step S111). If it does, the privilege set for each combination is granted. In the process of step S111, the game state setting unit 12 also sets a game state. Specifically, after a stop of all reels, if a specific symbol combination is displayed on the winning line E1, the game state (RT state or the like) corresponding to the symbol combination is set. Next, the game processing unit 11 performs a winning flag clear process (step S112). In step S112, the winning flag of the small role is cleared regardless of whether the winning is made or not picked up.

  Next, the game processing unit 11 determines whether or not the re-game player has been won (step S113). If it is determined that the game has been won (step S113; Yes), automatic bet processing is performed (step S115), and the next game In order to prepare for the start of the process, the process returns to step S101. If it is determined that no winning has been made (step S113; No), the bet prohibition made in step S104 is canceled (step S114), and the insertion of medals or the input of the bet button 31 can be performed. To prepare for the start of the game, the process returns to step S101.

  Next, the game state set by the game state setting unit 12 will be described. FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the game state set by the game state setting unit 12. FIG. 5A is an excerpt of the combination used by the gaming machine 1.

  FIG. 5A shows five roles of “8 small roles”, “1 small portion 1”, “1 small portion 2”, “replay 1”, and “special Lip 1”. The symbol combination “bell-bell-bell” is associated with “eight small roles”. Similarly, “one small combination 1” is associated with the symbol combination “A-X”, and “one small combination 2” is associated with the symbol combination “A-B-X”. It is attached. Note that “A”, “B”, and “X” in the symbol combinations correspond to specific symbols, respectively.

  “Replay 1” is associated with the symbol combination “A-Replay 1-A”. Further, the symbol combination “B-replay 2-B” is associated with “special lip 1”. The replay 1 and the special lip 1 are both regame players, but the replay 1 is not used as a trigger for the game state transition, and the special lip 1 is used as a trigger for the game state transition.

  In the following description, the symbol combination associated with one small role 1 is referred to as symbol combination Fc1, and the symbol combination associated with special lip 1 is referred to as symbol combination Fc2.

  FIG. 5B is an explanatory diagram for explaining the transition of the game state set by the game state setting unit 12. As shown in FIG. 5 (b), the game state set by the game state setting unit 12 includes a game state G1 which is a normal game state serving as a game reference in the gaming machine 1, and a re-playing player than the game state G1. There is a game state G2 which is an RT state that is won with high probability.

  The game state G2 is entered when the symbol combination Fc2 stops on the winning line E1. Also, the game state G1 is entered when the symbol combination Fc1 stops on the winning line E1.

  The symbol combinations Fc2 are arranged on the winning line E1 when a predetermined irregular pressing order is input when a predetermined lottery target is determined by internal lottery. Specifically, as a target of internal lottery by the game processing unit 11, a replaying player used as a trigger for the transition of the game state as in the special Lip 1 and a trigger for transitioning the game state as the replaying player 1. A push order re-gamer that wins at the same time as a non-use re-gamer will be established. The re-playing role used as a trigger for the game state transition is designated as the correct push order re-playing role, and the re-playing role not used as the game state transition is designated as the push-order incorrect answer re-playing role. The correct answer pressing order and the predetermined irregular pressing order are set as the correct answer pressing order.

  In this way, if the symbol combination Fc2 is aligned on the winning line E1 only when a predetermined irregular pressing order that is the correct answer pressing order is input, the correct answer pressing order is obtained in the non-AT state. Since the notification is not made, when the stop button is operated in the incorrect pressing order, the setting by the game state setting unit 12 stays in the game state G1. If the push order re-gamer is elected in the ART ready state, the correct answer push order is notified. Therefore, when the stop button is operated in the correct push order, the setting by the game state setting unit 12 is a game. It will shift to state G2 (RT state).

  Next, the ART lottery and the AT state will be described. FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram of the ART lottery and the AT state. First, at the end of the initial state or the previous ART state, the periodic mode selection unit 14a selects the periodic mode.

  If the 32-cycle mode is selected, ART lottery is performed in 32 games, 64 games, and 96 games. If the ART right is won with any number of games, the AT state is started. If the ART right is not won in any ART lottery, the ceiling is reached in 128 games, and the grant of the ART right is confirmed.

  If the 64-cycle mode is selected, the ART lottery is performed in 64 games, 128 games, and 192 games. If the ART right is won with any number of games, the AT state is started. If the ART right is not won in any ART lottery, the game reaches the ceiling in 256 games and the grant of the ART right is confirmed.

  If the 128 period mode is selected, the ART lottery is performed in 128 games, 256 games, and 384 games. If the ART right is won with any number of games, the AT state is started. If no ART right is won in any ART lottery, the ceiling is reached in 512 games, and the grant of the ART right is confirmed.

  If the 256 cycle mode is selected, ART lottery is performed in 256 games, 512 games, and 768 games. If the ART right is won with any number of games, the AT state is started. If the ART right is not won in any ART lottery, the ceiling is reached in 1024 games, and the grant of the ART right is confirmed.

  When the ART right is granted by the ART lottery or the ceiling and the AT state is started, first, an ART ready state in the AT state is entered. In the ART preparation state, since the correct pressing order of the pressing order re-gamer is notified, it is possible to align the symbol combination Fc2 on the winning line E1. When the symbol combination Fc2 is aligned with the winning line E1, the setting by the game state setting unit 12 shifts to the game state G2. The AT processing unit 14 shifts to the ART state upon receiving a notification indicating that the setting by the game state setting unit 12 has shifted to the game state G2. The ART state ends with a predetermined number of games and shifts to cycle mode selection.

  Next, ART lottery and ceiling management will be described. The transfer lottery unit 14 c controls the ART lottery by using a lottery game number table stored in the gaming machine 1 in which the number of lottery games and the type of cycle are associated with each other. Similarly, the transition determination unit 14d controls the granting of the ART right by using the determined game number table that is stored in the gaming machine 1 and associates the determined game number with the cycle type.

  FIG. 7 is a specific example of a lottery game number table and a confirmed game number table. As shown in FIG. 7A, in the lottery game number table, the number of types of cycles is a, and the number of types of lottery games in the ART lottery in each cycle is b. It is a table. Similarly, as shown in FIG. 7B, the fixed game number table is a small table of data number a × 1, where a is the number of types of cycles.

  As described above, the transition lottery unit 14c and the transition determination unit 14d perform the ART lottery and the ART right grant by referring to the table having a small data size stored in the gaming machine 1 based on the current cycle. Can be identified. Moreover, it is good also as a structure which specifies the timing of ART lottery or ART right grant by the calculation from the present period instead of using the table as mentioned above.

  Next, a processing procedure related to the ART lottery will be described. FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure related to the ART lottery. The processing procedure shown in FIG. 8 is started after the previous ART state ends or after the gaming machine 1 is reset.

  When the processing procedure is started, first, the periodic mode selection unit 14a selects a periodic mode (step S201). Thereafter, the counter 14b is incremented for each game (step S202).

  The transition determining unit 14d determines whether or not the value of the counter 14b is the determined number of games in the current cycle (step S203). If the value of the counter 14b is the determined number of games in the current cycle (step S203; Yes), the lottery presentation unit 21b performs an ART lottery effect (step S212). Thereafter, the value of the counter 14b is reset (step S210), the process shifts to the AT state (step S211), and the process ends.

  If the value of the counter 14b is not the determined number of games in the current cycle (step S203; No), the transition lottery unit 14c determines whether the value of the counter 14b is the number of lottery games in the current cycle (step S203). S204).

  If the value of the counter 14b is the number of lottery games in the current cycle (step S204; Yes), the lottery presentation unit 21b produces an ART lottery (step S207), and the transition lottery unit 14c executes the ART lottery ( Step S208). If the ART right is won by the ART lottery (step S209; Yes), the value of the counter 14b is reset (step S210), the state is shifted to the AT state (step S211), and the process is terminated.

  If the ART right is not won in the ART lottery (step S209; No), the process proceeds to step S202, and the counter 14b is added for each game. If the value of the counter 14b is not the number of lottery games in the current cycle (step S204; No), the lottery presentation unit 21b determines whether the value of the counter 14b is the number of lottery games in another cycle. (Step S205).

  If the value of the counter 14b is the number of lottery games in other cycles (step S205; Yes), after the lottery presentation unit 21b performs the ART lottery presentation (step S206), the process proceeds to step S202, and for each game. The counter 14b is added. If the value of the counter 14b is not the number of lottery games in other periods (step S205; No), the process proceeds to step S202 as it is, and the counter 14b is added for each game.

  Next, a specific example of display by the lottery time display processing unit 21a will be described. FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram of a specific example of display by the lottery time display processing unit 21a. In the specific example of the display shown in FIG. 9, the periods of the plurality of periodic modes are each indicated by an elliptical orbit.

  In addition, an indicator corresponding to the value of the counter 14b is displayed on the orbit of each cycle, and the indicator on each orbit is advanced each time the value of the counter 14b is added. Each indicator advances at a pace that makes one round of the orbit in one cycle, and circulates on the orbit.

  Then, the trajectories of all periods are arranged so as to intersect at one point, and this one point is set as a lottery position. That is, the timing at which the indicator reaches the lottery position corresponds to the number of lottery games in the cycle.

  Here, a period other than the shortest period among a plurality of periods (32 periods, 64 periods, 128 periods, 256 periods) is a multiple of all periods shorter than the own period. For this reason, when the indicator of a certain period arrives at the lottery position, the indicators of all the periods shorter than the own period reach the lottery position at the same time. Thus, the indicator of a plurality of periods simultaneously reaches the lottery position, so that the player's expectation can be specialized in a short period.

  In addition, although the example which displays a track | orbit about all the periods was shown in FIG. 9, you may selectively display the track | orbit of a part of period. In this case, at least the trajectory of the current period is displayed. In this way, if the trajectory of a part of the period including the current period is selectively displayed, the player can be given a clue to estimate the current period.

  Further, since the number of confirmed games is set smaller as the period is shorter, if the number of confirmed games is exceeded, it can be determined that the period is not the current period. Therefore, the display of the trajectory and the indicator may be changed according to the progress of the game, such as deleting the display of the trajectory for the period that can be discriminated that it is not the current period.

  In the description so far, the configuration in which the AT processing unit 14 is provided on the main control board 10 is illustrated, but the AT processing unit may be provided on the sub-control board 20. FIG. 10 is a configuration diagram when an AT processing unit is provided on the sub-control board 20.

  The configuration shown in FIG. 10 is the same as the configuration shown in FIG. 3 in that the control unit 10a of the main control board 10 does not have the AT processing unit 14, and the control unit 20a of the sub control board 20 has the AT processing unit 22. Different.

  The AT processing unit 22 includes a periodic mode selection unit 22a, a counter 22b, a transition lottery unit 22c, and a transition determination unit 22d. The periodic mode selection unit 22a, the counter 22b, the transition lottery unit 22c, and the transition determination unit 22d correspond to the periodic mode selection unit 14a, the counter 14b, the transition lottery unit 14c, and the transition determination unit 14d illustrated in FIG.

  Since other configurations and operations are the same as those shown in FIG. 3, the same components are denoted by the same reference numerals and description thereof is omitted.

  As described above, in the gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment, one of a plurality of cycles is selected at a predetermined timing, the number of games continued in the non-AT state is counted, and the value of the counter is the selected cycle. When it becomes an integer multiple, ART lottery is performed. With this configuration, the ART lottery is surely performed at regular intervals, so that the player maintains a sense of expectation for the ART state.

  Further, by setting each of the plurality of periods other than the shortest period to a multiple of the shortest period, the ART lottery timings in the plurality of periods can be matched with high probability. Furthermore, the period other than the shortest period among the plurality of periods is a multiple of all the periods shorter than the own period, and the ART lottery timing in a certain period is the ART lottery in all the periods shorter than the period. This makes it possible to specialize the player's expectation in a short cycle.

  Further, for each of a plurality of cycles, when it is assumed that the cycle has been selected, the display suggests when the next ART lottery will be performed, so that the player can estimate the current cycle, and the ART lottery You can maintain a sense of expectation.

  In addition, for each of a plurality of periods, the relationship between the value that is an integral multiple of the period and the value of the counter is visually expressed as a positional relationship between two points, so that the ART lottery timing in each period can be expressed. Clear notification to the player.

  In addition, by expressing that the display position indicating a value that is an integer multiple of each of the plurality of periods is the same position, it is clearly notified to the player that the plurality of periods are simultaneously the ART lottery timing. it can.

  In addition, even when the ART right is granted through the ceiling or when the number of lottery games in another cycle is reached, the ART lottery effect is performed, so that easy identification of the cycle can be avoided and the gameability can be improved.

  Further, since the data size related to the management of the transition to the ART state is reduced, the transition management to the ART state can be performed on the main control board 10. The ART lottery timing may be determined using a table or may be determined by calculation. Furthermore, it is possible to set a ceiling for granting ART rights regardless of lottery based on the selected period and the number of games.

  In the above embodiment, the configuration in which the ART lottery is performed only when the value of the counter reaches the number of lottery games in the current cycle is shown. However, in addition to the ART lottery, a winning or winning of a specific role occurs. In this case, ART lottery may be performed.

  In the above embodiment, the counter is added for each game played in the non-AT state. However, the counter may be added by winning a particular combination or winning a prize. Further, the value added to the counter may be varied depending on the type of combination.

  In the above embodiment, the case of managing the transition to the ART state has been described as an example. However, the transition to the other state may be used for managing the transition. For example, instead of performing the ART lottery itself when the value of the counter is an integer in the current cycle, the transition to a state where the ART lottery is advantageous may be lottery. Moreover, it can be used not only for a state that is advantageous to the player but also for a transition to a state that is disadvantageous for the player.

  Further, in the above embodiment, the winning line is only the winning line E1 that is the center of the reel window 30, but the present invention can be applied even to a gaming machine having a plurality of winning lines. Needless to say. A single winning line other than the center of the reel window 30 may be used. Further, in the present embodiment, the state of the main control board 10 is set to one of the game states G1 and G2, but more game states may be included. The game state may include a bonus game state.

  Further, in the AT state in the above-described embodiment, an effect of notifying the pushing order that is advantageous to the player is executed. The symbol may be notified.

  In the above embodiment, a slot machine using a medal as a game medium has been described as an example. Good.

  In the above-described embodiment, the configuration in which the ART lottery effect is performed when the value of the counter 14b is an integral multiple of the current cycle is shown. However, the value of the counter 14b is an integral multiple of the current cycle. It is good also as a structure which performs the continuous production over a some game from the front.

  In the above embodiment, the slot machine as the ART machine including the transition of the RT state is described as an example. However, the present invention is applied to the slot machine as the AT machine not including the transition of the RT state. Also good.

  It goes without saying that the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications are possible.

  As described above, the gaming machine according to the present invention is suitable for maintaining the player's expectation regarding the transition of the state of the gaming machine.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Game machine 2 Main body 3 Front door 10 Main control board 10a, 20a Control part 10b Input / output part 11 Game processing part 12 Game state setting part 13 Payout control part 14, 22 AT processing part 14a, 22a Period mode selection part (period selection) means)
14b, 22b Counter 14c, 22c Transition lottery section (transition lottery means)
14d, 22d Transition determining unit (transition determining means)
20 sub-control board 20b output unit 21 production control unit 21a lottery time display processing unit (display control means)
21b Lottery production section (lottery production means)
30 Reel window 31 Bet button 32 Start lever 33a to 33c Stop button 34 Checkout button 35 Information display part 36 Medal receiving part 36a Medal insertion slot 37 Medal paying part 37a Medal paying outlet 37b Medal tray 41 Display (display part)
42 Speaker 50 Reel variable display device 51a-51c Reel 52a-52c Reel frame 53a-53c Reel band 54a-54c Detection plate 60 Case body 61a-61c Guide rail 62a-62c Base plate 63a-63c Backlight device 64a-64c Stepping motor 65a to 65c reel position detection sensor

Claims (3)

Internally draw one of a plurality of lottery objects, stop any of the multiple symbols on the winning line based on the internal lottery result and the operation mode of the stop operation for variable display of symbols by the player, A gaming machine that grants a privilege according to the combination when the combination is established by the combination of symbols stopped on the line,
Cycle selection means for selecting any one of a plurality of cycles at a predetermined timing;
A counter to be added as the game progresses;
When the value of the counter is an integral multiple of the cycle selected by the cycle selection means,
Transition lottery means for performing a lottery related to the transition of the gaming state;
Display control means for displaying a timing at which the next lottery is performed by the transition lottery means on a predetermined display unit when each of the plurality of periods is assumed to be selected. A gaming machine. The display control means visually represents the relationship between a value that is an integral multiple of the cycle and the value of the counter for each of the plurality of cycles as a positional relationship between two points. The gaming machine according to claim 1 . The gaming machine according to claim 2 , wherein the display control means represents the display position indicating a value that is an integral multiple of each of the plurality of cycles to be the same position.

Images