JP6505636B2 - Gaming machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine.

  Conventionally, a gaming machine such as a slot machine (roll-type game machine) changes the output state of an external signal (for example, an ART signal or the like) output to an external device such as a hall computer at a predetermined timing (patent Reference 1).

JP 2012-183129 A

  However, depending on the progress of the game, the output state of the external signal may change in a short time, and in this case, the external device may not recognize the change in the output state of the external signal. That is, there is a possibility that the external signal may not be input properly.

  An object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine capable of recognizing a change in the output state of an external signal.

In the gaming machine, the variation of the symbol is started based on the start operation, and in the gaming machine where the symbol is stopped based on the stop operation, control means for controlling the output state of the external signal to be output from the connection terminal Processing means for executing a game progressing process for progressing, the processing means outputting the external signal based on the control state of the gaming machine after the start operation is performed in the game progressing process The control information for setting the state to the first state is configured to be able to be stored in the storage means, and the output signal is output based on the control state of the gaming machine after the stop operation is performed in the game progression process. state and control information for the second state is storable constructed in the storage means, wherein, in the interrupt process executed every a predetermined time has elapsed, the external After the control performed for changing the output state of the item, when has passed a specific time, based on the control information stored in the storage means, the control for changing the output state of the external signal It is configured to be executable, and after the control means performs control to change the output state of the external signal to the first state, the output state of the external signal is changed to the second state for the specific time. The execution of the control for changing is limited, and the control means performs control for changing the output state of the external signal to the second state, and then the output state of the external signal is changed for the specific time. execution of the control for changing to the 1 state is limited, the control of the output state of the external signal for changing to the first state, after the start operation is performed, the lottery to make decisions about the progress of a game Is the end And the gist to be performed during the period variation of the symbols is started from.

  In the above-mentioned gaming machine, the control for changing the output state of the external signal may be executable when the interrupt processing is performed a predetermined number of times.

  According to the present invention, changes in the output state of an external signal can be recognized.

The front view which shows a slot machine typically. The schematic diagram which shows the operation aspect (pushing order) of a stop button. (A) is a figure which shows transfer of a game state, (b) is a figure which shows transfer of effect mode. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration of the slot machine. The schematic diagram which shows the specific example about the correspondence of the winning combination number and the symbol combination which can be displayed in a fluctuation game. The flowchart which shows game progress main processing. The flowchart which shows interruption processing. (A) And (b) is a timing chart which shows the change of the output state of an ART signal.

  Hereinafter, an embodiment of a slot machine which is a type of gaming machine will be described. The slot machine of this embodiment is a rotating machine, also called a pachislot machine. In this specification, the upper, lower, left, right, front, and rear directions indicate directions as viewed from a player playing a game in the slot machine.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the slot machine 10 includes a main box cabinet 11 in the form of a square box. The main body cabinet 11 has an opening (not shown) on the front surface. The slot machine 10 is provided with a front door 12 that covers the opening of the main cabinet 11. The front door 12 is supported so as to be able to open and close with respect to the main body cabinet 11.

  In the slot machine 10, a light source (not shown) is turned on, off, and blinked (hereinafter referred to as a light emission effect) on the front of the front door 12 as one of the effects accompanying the game (hereinafter referred to as game effect). The decorative lamp 13 can be implemented. The slot machine 10 is provided on the front of the front door 12 with a speaker 14 capable of executing effects (hereinafter referred to as sound effects) for outputting sounds such as sound effects and music as one of the game effects.

  The slot machine 10 includes an effect display device 15 capable of executing an effect (hereinafter referred to as a display effect) for displaying an image imitating, for example, a character or a character as one of game effects on the front of the front door 12 There is. The effect display device 15 is, for example, a liquid crystal display, a plasma display, an organic EL display, or the like. The slot machine 10 is provided with a substantially square display window 12a on the front of the front door 12 and below the effect display device 15 so that the player can see through the inside of the machine.

  The slot machine 10 is provided with a reel unit 16. The reel unit 16 is disposed inside the machine so that the player can visually recognize it through the display window 12a. The reel unit 16 includes a left (first) reel 16a, a middle (second) reel 16b, and a right (third) reel 16c. The reels 16a to 16c are rotating drums also called drums.

  The reels 16a to 16c each include a symbol row in which a plurality of symbols are identifiably arranged along the outer peripheral surface. The symbol row is provided by winding a strip-like light-transmissive film printed with a plurality of symbols along the longitudinal direction around the outside of the reels 16a to 16c. A total of 21 symbols from symbol number 0 to symbol number 20 are included in the symbol rows of the reels 16a to 16c.

  Moreover, there are a plurality of types of symbols in the symbol of this embodiment. For example, a plurality of types of designs include a cherry pattern that is a pattern that simulates cherry. The plurality of kinds of symbols include a watermelon symbol which is a symbol simulating a watermelon, a bell symbol which is a symbol simulating a bell, and a replay symbol which imitates characters of "REPLAY".

  The reel unit 16 includes an actuator for rotating and stopping the left reel 16a, an actuator for rotating and stopping the middle reel 16b, and an actuator for rotating and stopping the right reel 16c (none of which are shown) . The actuators for driving the reels 16a to 16c are, for example, stepping motors.

  The reels 16a to 16c can be rotated and stopped in the longitudinal direction independently of each other by actuators provided correspondingly. In the slot machine 10, when the reels 16a to 16c rotate, symbol rows (a plurality of types of symbols) visible through the display window 12a are changed. For example, the variation of the symbol row is performed in such a manner that the symbol row is scrolled in the vertical direction from the top to the bottom.

  The reel unit 16 includes a left reel sensor SE1 for detecting the position of the left reel 16a, a middle reel sensor SE2 for detecting the position of the middle reel 16b, and a right reel sensor for detecting the position of the right reel 16c. And SE3 (shown in FIG. 4).

  The display window 12a has a size capable of displaying three symbols continuous in the circumferential direction on the reels 16a to 16c. An upper stage stop position, a middle stage stop position, and a lower stage stop position are set in the display window 12a for each of the reels 16a to 16c. In the slot machine 10 of this embodiment, it is possible to judge that the stopped symbol combination is a prize by the combination of the stop positions selected one by one from the three stop positions set for each of the reels 16a to 16c. A combination of stop positions is set. In the following description, a line connecting a plurality of stop positions constituting a combination of effective stop positions is simply referred to as a valid line NL. In this embodiment, the middle stop positions of the reels 16a to 16c constitute an effective line NL (combination of effective stop positions).

  Here, when the symbol is simply indicated as "stop", the symbol is stopped in the display window 12a, that is, any of the upper stop position, the middle stop position, and the lower stop position, and is displayed visibly to the player Is meant to be Also, "winning" means that a predetermined symbol combination necessary for winning a prize is displayed on the valid line NL. In the slot machine 10, when a winning occurs, a predetermined award is given to the winning combination of symbols. In the following description, a symbol combination that can obtain a prize by being displayed on the activated line NL may be indicated as "combination".

  A combination other than the combination of valid stop positions is a combination of invalid stop positions (so-called, invalid lines) in which it is not possible to determine the displayed symbol combination as a winning. In this specification, “deriving” means displaying a symbol combination corresponding to the game result of the fluctuation game on the effective line NL by stopping the symbols on the effective line NL.

  The slot machine 10 is provided with a medal insertion slot 17 for inserting a medal as a game medium on the front of the front door 12. The slot machine 10 has a bet button 18 on the front of the front door 12. The bet button 18 is a means for betting on a predetermined number of medals (hereinafter referred to as a bet) from credits stored internally in the slot machine 10. The slot machine 10 has a settlement button 19 on the front of the front door 12. The settlement button 19 is a means for operating when paying back a bet medal or a credit internally stored in the slot machine 10.

  The slot machine 10 includes a start lever 20 on the front of the front door 12. The start lever 20 corresponds to a means for performing a start operation to start the rotation of the reels 16a to 16c. That is, the reception of the start operation is an opportunity to start the fluctuation game.

  The slot machine 10 is provided with a left (first) stop button 21 a on the front of the front door 12. The left stop button 21a corresponds to the left reel 16a, and is means for performing a stop operation to stop the rotation of the left reel 16a after the fluctuation game is started. The slot machine 10 has a middle (second) stop button 21 b on the front of the front door 12. The middle stop button 21b corresponds to the middle reel 16b, and is a means for stopping the rotation of the middle reel 16b after the variation game is started.

  The slot machine 10 has a right (third) stop button 21 c on the front of the front door 12. The right stop button 21c corresponds to the right reel 16c, and is means for performing a stop operation to stop the rotation of the right reel 16c after the variation game is started. As described above, the stop buttons 21a to 21c correspond to means for stopping the symbol row in the variation game. In the following description, after the variation game is started, the first stop operation of the reels 16a to 16c (stop buttons 21a to 21c) is referred to as a first stop operation, and the second stop operation is referred to as a second stop operation. And the third stop operation is referred to as a third stop operation.

  As shown in FIG. 2, in the operation order of the stop buttons 21a to 21c (hereinafter referred to as pressing order), different stop buttons for performing the first stop operation, the second stop operation, and the third stop operation are pressed differently. As the order, there are all six ways from the first pushing order to the sixth pushing order. For example, the first pressing order is a pressing order in which the stop buttons 21a to 21c are operated such that the rotation is stopped in the order of the left reel 16a, the middle reel 16b, and the right reel 16c. In the following description, the left reel 16a (left stop button 21a) is “left”, the middle reel 16b (middle stop button 21b) is “middle”, and the right reel 16c (right stop button 21c) to indicate the pressing order. It may be shown as "right". For example, the first push order is a left middle middle right push order.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the slot machine 10 is provided with a medal payout opening 22 at the lower part of the front surface of the front door 12. The slot machine 10 is provided with a tray 23 for receiving the medals paid out from the medal outlet 22. The slot machine 10 has a medal selector (not shown) inside the machine. The medal selector includes an insertion sensor SE4 that detects a medal inserted from the medal insertion slot 17 (shown in FIG. 4). The slot machine 10 is provided with a hopper unit (not shown) capable of paying out medals from the medal payout opening 22 inside the machine.

The slot machine 10 includes an information panel 30 on the front of the front door 12, which can display predetermined information.
The information panel 30 includes, for example, an insertable display unit that displays whether the slot machine 10 is in a state where medals can be inserted. In addition, the information panel 30 includes, for example, a replay display unit that displays whether or not it is replay (replay). The replay will be described later. The information panel 30 includes, for example, a weight display unit that displays whether or not weight time is in progress. The wait time is the shortest game time set so that the number of times of execution of the fluctuation game per unit time does not exceed a predetermined number of times. The information panel 30 includes, for example, a state display unit that displays an error code and the like. The information panel 30 includes, for example, a bet display unit that displays the number of bets (number of bets). The information panel 30 includes, for example, a credit display unit that displays the number of medals stored as credits in the inside of the machine. The information panel 30 includes, for example, a payout display unit that displays information on the number of medals to be paid out due to the occurrence of a winning in the variation game.

Next, an example of an award predetermined for a symbol combination (combination) will be described.
The symbol combinations include a symbol combination (small part, payout combination) that defines payout of medals as a prize (game value), and a symbol combination (replay combination, a replay role) that defines replay as a prize.

  The small roles (payout roles) include, for example, a cherry role, a bell role and a bell spill role. In the role of cherry, payout of 10 medals is defined. The payout of five medals is determined for the watermelon role. The payout of eight medals is determined for the role of Bell. Two medals are paid out for the bell spill role. The Bell role is more advantageous than the Bell spill role in terms of the number of payouts.

The replay role includes, for example, a first replay role and a second replay role. Replay means that it is possible to start the next variation game without having to bet medals.
Further, the slot machine 10 of this embodiment has a replay time function (replay combination probability variation function) for changing the winning probability of the replay combination in the internal lottery (a winning number lottery described later). And, according to the game state, it is possible to make the winning probability of the replay part different. For example, in the gaming state, there is an RT1 state in which the probability of winning (the probability of adding up) a replay combination is low. In addition, in the gaming state, there is an RT2 state in which the probability of winning (the probability of adding up) a replay combination is high. In the RT2 state, the winning probability (combination probability) of the replay player is higher than in the RT1 state. Therefore, in the RT2 state, the consumption of medals is suppressed. Therefore, the RT2 state is an advantageous gaming state for the player compared to the RT1 state.

  As shown in FIG. 3A, in the slot machine 10 of this embodiment, the gaming state shifts to the RT2 state in response to the second replay player winning in the RT1 state. In the slot machine 10, the gaming state shifts to the RT1 state in response to the bell spilled winning combination being won during the RT2 state.

  Next, in the slot machine 10 of this embodiment, a mode effect (effect state, control state) that can be executed as one of the game effects will be described. The mode effect is performed by executing any one of a plurality of effect modes.

  As shown in FIG. 3B, there are, for example, a normal mode MA, a preparation mode MB, and a special mode MC as the plurality of effect modes. The modes MA to MC are executed in a mode in which, for example, a background image or a character image different for each effect mode is displayed on the effect display device 15 as mode identification information capable of identifying the effect mode being stay. Therefore, based on the display mode of the effect display device 15, the player can recognize in which effect mode the player is staying.

  The normal mode MA is an effect mode mainly staying in the variation game in the RT1 state. The normal mode MA is a non-assist time state in which the player is not instructed that the operation mode (pushing order or pushing position) of the stop buttons 21a to 21c for deriving a specific game result can be identified to the player in the variation game State). Further, in the following description, the assist time may be indicated as "AT".

  The preparation mode MB is an effect mode mainly for staying in the variation game in the RT1 state. The preparation mode MB is an AT state (instruction generation state) in which the player can be made distinguishable in the pressing order of the stop buttons 21a to 21c for deriving the specific game result in the variation game. The preparation mode MB is a special mode preparation screen immediately before the transition to the special mode MC.

  The special mode MC is an effect mode mainly for staying in the variation game of the RT2 state. The special mode MC is an AT state (instruction generation state) in which the player can be made distinguishable in the pressing order of the stop buttons 21a to 21c for deriving the specific game result in the variation game.

  Although details will be described later, in the AT state, the pressing order of the stop buttons 21a to 21c for deriving the specific game result is notified by the display of the instruction information in the payout display portion of the information panel 30. Further, in the AT state, the pressing order of the stop buttons 21 a to 21 c for deriving a specific game result is notified by the effect displayed on the effect display device 15. In the following description, an effect of notifying an operation mode of the stop buttons 21a to 21c for deriving a specific game result may be indicated as navigation or navigation for short.

  In the slot machine 10, in the normal mode MA, the rendering state shifts to the preparation mode MB, triggered by establishment of a predetermined transition condition (in this embodiment, winning of the AT transition lottery). That is, the instruction state is controlled to the AT state (instruction generation state). In the slot machine 10, in the preparation mode MB, the rendering state shifts to the special mode MC, triggered by the second replay player winning a prize. The indicated state is maintained in the AT state. In the slot machine 10 of this embodiment, since the state of staying in the special mode MC is the AT state and the RT2 state, it becomes a so-called ART state. In the slot machine 10, in the special mode MC, the rendering state is shifted to the normal mode MA when the number of remaining special games becomes zero. Here, the number of remaining special games is information for making it possible to specify the remaining number of fluctuation games that can stay in the special mode MC. Then, the instruction state is controlled to the non-AT state (state without instruction).

Next, the electrical configuration of the slot machine 10 will be described.
As shown in FIG. 4, the slot machine 10 is provided with a main substrate 40 inside the machine. The main board 40 performs processing regarding the progress of the game and outputs a control signal (control command) according to the result of the processing. The main substrate 40 of this embodiment corresponds to a first control unit (main control means) capable of executing predetermined processing. The slot machine 10 is provided with a sub board 41 inside the machine. The sub-substrate 41 performs processing based on the control signal input from the main substrate 40. That is, the sub-substrate 41 controls a display effect by the effect display device 15, a light emission effect by the decoration lamp 13, and a sound effect by the speaker 14. The sub substrate 41 of this embodiment corresponds to a second control unit (sub control unit, effect control unit) capable of executing processing based on the processing result of the main substrate 40.

First, the main substrate 40 will be described in detail.
The main board 40 includes a main control CPU 40a, a main control ROM 40b, and a main control RAM 40c. The main control CPU 40a mainly executes processing related to the progress of the game based on the main control program.

  The main substrate 40 is connected to the sensors SE1 to SE4 via connection terminals (not shown). The main control CPU 40a is configured to be able to input signals output from the sensors SE1 to SE4. The main substrate 40 is connected to the actuators of the reels 16a to 16c via connection terminals (not shown). The main control CPU 40a is configured to be able to separately control the operations of the actuators of the reels 16a to 16c by controlling the output mode of control signals (pulse signals) to the actuators of the reels 16a to 16c.

  The main substrate 40 is connected to the bet button 18, the settlement button 19, the start lever 20, and the stop buttons 21a to 21c via connection terminals (not shown). The main control CPU 40a is configured to be able to input an operation signal that is output when the bet button 18, the settlement button 19, the start lever 20, and the stop buttons 21a to 21c are operated. The main substrate 40 is connected to the information panel 30 via a connection terminal (not shown). The main control CPU 40 a is configured to be able to control the display mode of the information panel 30.

  In the present embodiment, the main board 40 is provided with a connection terminal 40 d so as to be able to output an external signal to the external device 50. And as shown in FIG. 4, the main board | substrate 40 is comprised so that connection with the external apparatus 50 outside an apparatus is possible via the connection terminal 40d. The external device 50 is, for example, a hall computer or the like installed in a management room or the like of the game arcade to manage the operation state of each slot machine installed in the game arcade. Then, a plurality of types of external signals are output from the main substrate 40 to the external device 50. Each of these signals is output using separate signal lines. The external signal is a signal indicating to the external device 50 information related to the game of the slot machine 10. For example, as an external signal of the present embodiment, there is an ART signal indicating that the user is staying in the special mode MC (ART state).

  The main control ROM 40b stores a main control program, a lottery table used in a lottery process for making decisions regarding the progress of the game, and the like. Further, the main control RAM 40c can store various pieces of information which can be rewritten during the operation of the slot machine 10, such as the above-described credit. The information stored in the main control RAM 40c is, for example, a flag, a counter, and a timer.

  The main substrate 40 is configured to be capable of generating random numbers used for a predetermined lottery process. The random number may be generated as a hardware random number by, for example, providing a random number generation circuit that updates a value each time a clock signal is input. In addition to or instead of this, the random number may be generated as a software random number by, for example, the main control CPU 40a executing a random number update process of updating a value every predetermined control cycle.

  Next, among the lottery tables stored in the main control ROM 40b, a winning number lottery used for an internal lottery (hereinafter referred to as a winning number lottery) for determining a winning number from a plurality of winning numbers by lottery. The table and the winning number will be described in detail.

  First, the winning number will be described in detail. The winning number in this embodiment is information in which one or more symbol combinations (combinations) are defined as symbol combinations (combinations) in which winning is permitted. That is, the winning number is a condition device identifier (ID) in which one or more winning combinations are determined as winning combinations. In addition, that a prize is permitted means that a prize is allowed, and it is not always a prize.

  As shown in FIG. 5, in the slot machine 10 of this embodiment, a plurality of winning numbers including winning numbers 001 to 004 and 011 to 016 are set. In the drawing, "ALL" shown in the column of pushing order indicates that the pushing order of the reels 16a to 16c does not matter. In the figure, "ALL" shown in the column of the pressing position indicates that the pressing position does not matter.

  In winning number 001 (cherry), the role of cherry is defined. When the winning number 001 is determined and the left stop button 21a is operated to stop at the pressed position where the left reel 16a can stop the cherry pattern on the effective line NL (hereinafter referred to as the cherry pressed position), The Cherry role gets a prize regardless of the pushing order. On the other hand, when the left stop button 21a is operated to stop at the pressing position different from the cherry pressing position, the left reel 16a is led out of the symbol combination out of order regardless of the pressing order.

  The winning combination 002 (watermelon) has a watermelon role. In the case where the winning number 002 is determined, the stop buttons 21a to 21c are stopped at the pressing positions (hereinafter referred to as watermelon pressing positions) at which each of the reels 16a to 16c can stop the watermelon pattern on the effective line NL. When played, the watermelon part is won regardless of the pushing order. On the other hand, when the stop buttons 21a to 21c are stop operated at a position where the reels 16a to 16c are different from the watermelon pressed position, a symbol combination of an off state is derived regardless of the pressing order.

  A first replay role is defined for the winning number 003 (first replay). When the winning number 003 is determined and the stop buttons 21a to 21c are stopped, the first replay combination is won regardless of the pressing order and the pressing position.

  A first replay role and a second replay role are defined in the winning number 004 (the first replay or the second replay). When the winning number 004 is determined, and the stop buttons 21a to 21c are operated to stop in the sixth push order, the second replay role is won. On the other hand, when the stop buttons 21a to 21c are operated to stop in the pushing order different from the sixth pushing order, the first replay role is won.

  In the winning numbers 011 to 016 (first to sixth control bells), a bell combination and a bell spill combination are defined. When one of the winning numbers 011 to 016 is determined, and the stop buttons 21a to 21c are stopped in the pushing order in which the bell combination determined in the determined winning numbers 011 to 016 is won, The bell is won regardless of the pressing position. In addition, as shown in FIG. 5, the pushing order in which the bell combination is won is determined one by one for each of the winning numbers 011 to 016.

  On the other hand, when any one of the winning numbers 011 to 016 is determined, the stop button 21a is different from the pressing order in which the bell combination determined for the determined winning numbers 011 to 016 wins. When ~ 21 c is operated to stop, the bell spill role is won regardless of the pressing position.

  The win number lottery table includes a win number lottery table Tm1 used for win number lottery in the RT1 state and a win number lottery table Tm2 used for win number lottery in the RT2 state. In the win number lottery tables Tm1 and Tm2, values of random numbers (hereinafter referred to as win number random numbers) used for lottery of win numbers for the win numbers to be determined are numerical values that can be taken by the values of the random numbers. A predetermined number is distributed from the inside.

  In the winning number lottery table Tm2, the value of the winning number random number is distributed such that the probability of adding the determination probability (winning probability) of the winning numbers for which the replay role is determined is higher than the winning number lottery table Tm1. . As a result, in the RT2 state, the determination probability of the replay combination is changed to a higher probability than in the RT1 state.

Next, the sub-substrate 41 will be described in detail.
As shown in FIG. 4, the sub board 41 includes a sub control CPU 41a, a sub control ROM 41b, and a sub control RAM 41c. The sub control CPU 41a executes processing based on the sub control program.

  The sub-substrate 41 is connected to the effect display device 15 via a connection terminal (not shown). The sub control CPU 41 a is configured to be able to control the display mode of the effect display device 15. The sub-substrate 41 is connected to the decorative lamp 13 via a connection terminal (not shown). The sub control CPU 41 a is configured to be able to control the lighting mode of the decoration lamp 13. The sub substrate 41 is connected to the speaker 14 via a connection terminal (not shown). The sub control CPU 41 a is configured to be able to control the sound output mode of the speaker 14.

  Further, the sub control ROM 41 b stores a sub control program, a lottery table used in a lottery process for making a determination regarding effect, and the like. The sub control ROM 41 b stores a display effect pattern that can specify the mode (content) of the display effect in the effect display device 15, and display effect data used for executing the display effect. The sub control ROM 41 b stores a sound effect pattern that can specify an aspect (content) of the sound effect in the speaker 14, and sound effect data used to execute the sound effect. The sub control ROM 41 b stores a light emission effect pattern capable of specifying an aspect (content) of the light emission effect in the decoration lamp 13 and light emission effect data used for executing the light emission effect.

  Further, the sub control RAM 41 c can store various information which can be appropriately rewritten during the operation of the slot machine 10. The information stored in the sub control RAM 41 c is, for example, a flag, a counter, and a timer. Similar to the main substrate 40, the sub-substrate 41 is configured to be capable of generating random numbers used for a predetermined lottery process as hardware random numbers or software random numbers.

  Next, processing executed by the main control CPU 40 a of the main substrate 40 will be described. The main control CPU 40a performs the following game progress main process as one of the processes related to the progress of the game. The game progress main process corresponds to a game progress process (first process) for advancing a fluctuation game, and the main control CPU 40a functions as a processing means.

  As shown in FIG. 6, the main control CPU 40a performs a game start set process (step S101). In the game start setting process, the main control CPU 40a initializes a predetermined storage area in the main control RAM 40c. Next, the main control CPU 40a starts the medal bet acceptance (step S102). Next, the main control CPU 40a checks the gaming state of the slot machine 10 (step S103).

  Next, the main control CPU 40a determines whether or not the replay combination has won in the previous variation game (step S104). When the replay player has not won a prize in the previous variation game (step S104: NO), the main control CPU 40a performs medal management processing for setting the number of bets in the current variation game (step S105). In the process of step S105, when the detection signal of the medal is input from the insertion sensor SE4, the main control CPU 40a adds 1 to the bet number stored in the main control RAM 40c. In the process of step S105, when the main control CPU 40a receives an operation signal from the bet button 18, the main control CPU 40a adds a predetermined bet number to the bet number stored in the main control RAM 40c, and , And subtracts the credits stored in the main control RAM 40c.

  The main control CPU 40a allows the bet number in the current fluctuation game to be able to start the fluctuation game when the replay player wins in the previous fluctuation game (step S104: YES) or the processing in step S105 is ended. It is determined whether or not the specified bet number X matches (step S106). When the replay player wins in the previous variation game (step S104: YES), the main control CPU 40a sets the bet number in the previous variation game back to the main control RAM 40c as the bet number in the current variation game. Do.

  If the bet amount does not match the defined bet amount X (step S106: NO), the main control CPU 40a proceeds to the process of step S103. On the other hand, when the bet number in the current variation game matches the specified bet number X (step S106: YES), the main control CPU 40a determines whether a start operation by the start lever 20 has been received (step S107). In the process of step S107, the main control CPU 40a makes an affirmative determination when an operation signal is input from the start lever 20, and a negative determination when no operation signal is input from the start lever 20. If the start operation has not been received (step S107: NO), the main control CPU 40a proceeds to the process of step S103.

  On the other hand, when the start operation is received (step S107: YES), the main control CPU 40a performs a winning number lottery process for determining the winning number by lottery (step S108). The winning number lottery process is the following process.

  First, the main control CPU 40a performs a winning number lottery (so-called combination lottery). Specifically, the main control CPU 40a specifies which one of the RT1 state and the RT2 state the current game state is by referring to the value of the game state flag stored in the main control RAM 40c. The main control CPU 40a selects a winning number lottery table defined in the specified gaming state. The main control CPU 40 a acquires the value of the winning number random number generated in the main board 40. Then, the main control CPU 40a determines the winning number to which the value of the obtained winning number random number is distributed by referring to the selected winning number lottery table based on the value of the obtained winning number random number. Do.

  When a winning number lottery is performed, the main control CPU 40a sets a value (information) capable of specifying the determined winning number in the winning number flag stored in the main control RAM 40c. The main control CPU 40a can specify the determined winning number by referring to the winning number flag. Thereafter, the main control CPU 40a ends the winning number lottery process and returns to the game progress main process.

  When the process of step S108 (winning number lottery process) is ended, the main control CPU 40a executes an ART signal setting process for setting an output state of an ART signal (external signal) (step S109). The ART signal setting process is the following process.

  The main control CPU 40a refers to the value of the mode flag stored in the main control RAM 40c, and specifies the effect mode in the current fluctuation game. Next, the main control CPU 40a determines whether or not it is the special mode MC (whether or not it is in the ART state). If the determination result is negative, the main control CPU 40a ends the ART signal setting process and returns to the game progress main process.

  On the other hand, when determining that it is the special mode MC, the main control CPU 40a determines whether the effect mode in the previous variation game is the preparation mode MB. The effect mode in the previous variation game is stored in the main control RAM 40c. If the determination result is negative, the main control CPU 40a ends the ART signal setting process and returns to the game progress main process.

  On the other hand, when it is determined that the effect mode in the previous fluctuation game is the preparation mode MB, the main control CPU 40a indicates that the output state of the ART signal is staying in the special mode MC (ART state). Decide to be in state (high state). Then, the main control CPU 40a stores (sets) a value (control information) indicating that the output state of the ART signal is set to the first state in the ART signal setting counter. That is, after transition from the preparation mode MB to the special mode MC, only after the first start operation is performed, the main control CPU 40a indicates that the output state of the ART signal is to be in the first state (control information) Is stored (set) in the ART signal setting counter. Then, the main control CPU 40a ends the ART signal setting process and returns to the game progress main process.

  Therefore, the main control CPU 40a can store control information (the value of the ART signal setting counter) indicating the output state of the ART signal in the main control RAM 40c by executing the ART signal setting process of the main game progression. It has become. In addition, the ART signal setting counter temporarily stores the output state of the ART signal determined based on the processing result of the game progression main processing, and the ART signal setting counter immediately changes even if the value of the ART signal setting counter changes. The output state of the signal does not necessarily change (the details will be described later).

  If the special mode MC is not in effect, the main control CPU 40a ends the ART signal setting process. As a result, a value (control information) indicating that the ART signal output state is to be the first state is not stored (set) in the ART signal setting counter, but the initial value remains stored in the ART signal setting counter. . The initial value is a value (control information) indicating that the second state (low state) is to be made. The initial value is set (stored) in the ART signal setting counter for each fluctuation game by executing an ART signal end process described later.

When the process of step S109 (ART signal setting process) is completed, the main control CPU 40a executes an instruction information display process (step S110).
When the main control CPU 40a is in the AT state (in the preparation mode MB or the special mode MC), the pressing order of the stop buttons 21a to 21c for deriving a specific game result (symbol combination) in the variation game being executed It controls so that the instruction | indication number (instruction information) which shows these is displayed on the payout display part of the information panel 30. FIG. For example, when the winning number 011 (the first control bell) is determined, the main control CPU 40a causes the information panel 30 (the payout display portion thereof) to display an instruction number indicating the first pressing order. Further, when the winning number 004 (first replay or second replay) is determined, the main control CPU 40a causes the information panel 30 (a payout display unit) to display an instruction number indicating the sixth pressing order. In addition, when the winning number 003 (first replay) or the like is determined and the pushing order is not determined, the instruction is not given to indicate the reels to be stopped from the first stop operation to the third stop operation (that is, the instruction is not shown). The number is displayed on (the payout display unit of) the information panel 30.

  On the other hand, when the main control CPU 40a is in the non-AT state (in the case of the normal mode MA), the information panel 30 is configured to display an instruction number not instructing the reel to be stopped from the first stop operation to the third stop operation. (The payout display unit of) is controlled.

  When the process of step S110 (instruction information display process) is ended, the main control CPU 40a performs effect command transmission process (step S111). The effect command transmission process is the following process.

  The main control CPU 40a refers to the value of the mode flag stored in the main control RAM 40c, and specifies the effect mode in the current fluctuation game. The main control CPU 40a can specify the current effect mode by referring to the value of the mode flag. The main control CPU 40a generates a mode command that can specify the specified effect mode, and stores the mode command in the command transmission buffer. In the slot machine 10 of this embodiment, the command stored in the command transmission buffer is transmitted to the sub board 41 by a predetermined command transmission process.

  In the AT state, the main control CPU 40a is an instruction command capable of specifying an instruction number (instruction information) indicating the pressing order of the stop buttons 21a to 21c for deriving a specific game result (symbol combination) in the variation game being executed. Are generated and stored in the command transmission buffer. The main control CPU 40a does not generate an instruction command when the pushing order is not required, such as the winning number 003 (first replay role).

  When the process of step S111 (effect command transmission process) is ended, the main control CPU 40a determines whether the shortest game time (wait time) has elapsed (step S112). The shortest game time of the present embodiment is 4.1 seconds, and the measurement of the next shortest game time is started from when it is determined that the shortest game time (wait time) has elapsed in the previous variation game. . That is, the measurement of the shortest game time is started at the start of the fluctuation of the symbol in the previous fluctuation game. In other words, the main control CPU 40a determines whether or not 4.1 seconds have elapsed since the start of the symbol fluctuation in the previous fluctuation game. When the shortest game time has not elapsed (step S112: NO), the main control CPU 40a stands by until the shortest game time has elapsed. If the minimum game time has elapsed (step S112: YES), the main control CPU 40a controls the actuators of the reels 16a to 16c so that the rotation of the reels 16a to 16c is started (step S113). In the process of step S113, the main control CPU 40a stands by until the rotational speed of the reels 16a to 16c becomes constant at a predetermined rotational speed and the stop operation by the stop buttons 21a to 21c can be received.

  Next, the main control CPU 40a determines whether a stop operation by any of the stop buttons 21a to 21c has been received (step S114). In the process of step S114, the main control CPU 40a makes an affirmative determination when an operation signal is input from any of the stop buttons 21a to 21c, while inputting an operation signal from any of the stop buttons 21a to 21c. If not, the determination is negative. If the stop operation has not been received (step S114: NO), the main control CPU 40a waits until the stop operation is received.

  On the other hand, when the stop operation has been received (step S114: YES), the main control CPU 40a executes reel stop processing for stopping the rotation of the reel corresponding to the stop button to which the operation signal has been input (step S115). That is, the main control CPU 40a controls the actuator in response to the reception of the stop operation, and stops the symbol on the reel corresponding to the received stop operation.

  Explaining in detail, the main control CPU 40a is determined in advance based on the winning number determined in the process of step S108 (winning number lottery process) and the operation mode (pushing order and pushing position) of the stop buttons 21a to 21c. From the symbols located within the pull-in range (for example, 4 symbols), a symbol that can be stopped on the effective line NL is searched. And main control CPU40a controls an actuator so that the searched pattern may be stopped on effective line NL. The main control CPU 40a stops the symbol combination according to the winning number and the operation mode of the stop button on the effective line NL by performing such reel stop control with respect to the stop operation of the reels 16a to 16c.

  Further, in the process of step S115, when the main control CPU 40a receives an operation signal from the stop buttons 21a to 21c, the main control CPU 40a generates an operation command that can specify the stop button having the operation signal and stores it in the command transmission buffer. Do.

  Next, the main control CPU 40a determines whether or not all the reels 16a to 16c have been stopped (step S116). When one or more reels among the reels 16a to 16c are not stopped (step S116: NO), the main control CPU 40a proceeds to the process of step S114. On the other hand, when all the reels 16a to 16c are stopped (step S116: YES), display symbol determination processing is performed to determine the symbol combination stopped on the valid line NL (step S117). In the process of step S117, the main control CPU 40a determines whether or not the symbol combination (combination) for which the award is determined on the effective line NL is stopped, and the symbol combination (combination) for which the award is determined on the activation line NL is stopped. If yes, determine the type of symbol combination. If it is determined in the process of step S117 that the replay combination has won, the main control CPU 40a stores that effect in the main control RAM 40c.

  Next, the main control CPU 40a determines whether to pay out the medals to the player (step S118). In the process of step S118, the main control CPU 40a makes an affirmative determination if the payout combination is winning, but makes a negative determination if the payout combination is not winning. When the medal is dispensed (step S118: YES), the main control CPU 40a drives a hopper unit (not shown) to execute a medal payout process for paying out the medal (step S119). Thus, in the slot machine 10, medals can be paid out as a prize according to the symbol combination stopped on the effective line NL.

  Further, in the process of step S119, the main control CPU 40a controls the payout display unit of the information panel 30 so as to display information on the number of medals to be paid out due to the occurrence of a winning. For example, the main control CPU 40a may display the remaining number of medals to be paid out as information on the number of medals to be paid out, and may display the number of medals paid out in the variation game.

  If the main control CPU 40a does not pay out the medals (step S118: NO), and if the process of step S119 ends, the main control CPU 40a performs a game number subtraction process (step S120). The game number subtraction process is the following process.

  The main control CPU 40a is a case where the value of the mode flag stored in the main control RAM 40c is a value (information) that can identify the special mode MC, and the number of remaining special games is one or more. Determine if there is. If it is not the special mode MC or the number of remaining special games is not one or more, the main control CPU 40a ends the game number subtraction process and returns to the game progress main process.

  On the other hand, if it is the special mode MC and the number of remaining special games is one or more, the main control CPU 40a subtracts 1 from the number of remaining special games stored in the main control RAM 40c to update it. Do. Thereafter, the main control CPU 40a ends the game number subtraction process and returns to the game progression main process.

  When the process of step S120 (the game number subtraction process) is ended, the main control CPU 40a performs a mode transition process (step S121). The mode transition process is the following process.

  The main control CPU 40a specifies the current effect mode by referring to the value of the mode flag stored in the main control RAM 40c. Further, the main control CPU 40a specifies the winning number determined by the winning number lottery in the process of step S108 (winning number lottery process). Further, the main control CPU 40a specifies a symbol combination (combination) determined to be won in the process of step S117 (display symbol determination process).

  Then, the value of the stored mode flag is a value (information) that can specify that the mode is the normal mode MA, and a predetermined winning number (in the present embodiment, the winning number 001 or the winning number 002). Is determined, the main control CPU 40a performs an AT transition lottery which randomly determines whether to permit transition to the special mode MC. When the AT transition lottery is won, the main control CPU 40a permits transition to the special mode MC, determines the number of times to store the number of remaining special games by lottery, and stores the number in the main control RAM 40c. Thereafter, the main control CPU 40a sets (stores) a value (information) that can specify that the preparation mode MB is in the mode flag. Then, the main control CPU 40a ends the mode shift process and returns to the game progress main process. On the other hand, when the AT transition lottery is not won, the main control CPU 40a ends the mode transition process and returns to the game progress main process. When the winning number 001 (cherry) is determined, the AT transition lottery is won with a high probability compared to when the winning number 002 (watermelon) is determined.

  Further, when the value of the stored mode flag is a value (information) that can specify that the mode is the normal mode MA and the AT transition lottery is not performed (predetermined winning) When it is not a number), the mode transition process is ended. Along with that, it returns to the game progress main processing.

  In addition, the main control CPU 40a is a case where the value of the stored mode flag is a value (information) that can specify that the preparation mode is the MB, and when the second replay combination is won, the special mode A value (information) that can specify that it is an MC is set (stored) in the mode flag. Then, the main control CPU 40a ends the mode shift process and returns to the game progress main process.

  Then, when the value of the stored mode flag is a value (information) that can identify the preparation mode MB, the main control CPU 40a does not win the second replay role, and While the mode shift process is ended, the process returns to the game progress main process.

  Also, the main control CPU 40a is a case where the value of the stored mode flag is a value (information) that can specify that the special mode MC is to be made, and the remaining special data stored in the main control RAM 40c. When the number of games becomes 0, a value (information) that can specify that the normal mode MA is specified is set (stored) in the mode flag stored in the main control RAM 40c. Thereafter, the main control CPU 40a ends the mode shift process and returns to the game progress main process.

  On the other hand, when the value of the stored mode flag is a value (information) that can identify the special mode MC and the number of remaining special games is not 0, the main control CPU 40a shifts the mode. When the processing is ended, the processing is returned to the game progress main processing.

  When the process of step S121 (mode transition process) is ended, the main control CPU 40a executes an ART signal end process (step S122). The main control CPU 40a sets (stores) a value (control information) indicating that the output state of the ART signal is to be the second state (low state) in the ART signal setting counter. Therefore, the main control CPU 40a can store control information (the value of the ART signal setting counter) indicating the output state of the ART signal in the main control RAM 40c by executing the ART signal end processing of the main game progression. It has become.

  When the process of step S122 (ART signal end process) is ended, the main control CPU 40a performs an end process of ending one fluctuation game (step S123). In the process of step S123, the main control CPU 40a generates a change game end command instructing the end of the change game and stores the change game end command in the command transmission buffer. The fluctuation game end command can also specify the presence or absence of a prize and the symbol combination (combination) that has won the prize. In addition, the variation game end command is output as a command capable of specifying the winning combination of symbols regardless of whether or not it is in the AT state. The variation game end command is not output until the symbol combination is derived.

  Further, the main control CPU 40a performs a process of shifting the gaming state according to the symbol combination (combination) determined to be winning in the process of step S123. That is, when the second replay combination is won in the RT1 state, the main control CPU 40a sets a value (information) that can specify that the RT2 state is in the gaming state flag stored in the main control RAM 40c. . Further, when the bell spill character is won in the RT2 state, the main control CPU 40a sets a value (information) that can specify that the RT1 state is in the gaming state flag stored in the main control RAM 40c.

  Then, when the termination process is finished, the main control CPU 40a returns to the process of step S101 again. As described above, in the slot machine 10 of this embodiment, the variation game is started upon receipt of the start operation, and variation of the symbols is started, and the symbol row is stopped upon receipt of the stop operation. Ends.

  Next, an interrupt process (second process) for performing control to change the output state of the external signal (ART signal) will be described. The interrupt process is performed at a predetermined interrupt cycle. The interrupt cycle in the present embodiment is, for example, 1.4891 ms.

  In the interrupt processing shown in FIG. 7, the main control CPU 40a determines whether or not a guarantee time for limiting the change in the output state of the external signal (maintaining the output state) has passed (step S201). The guarantee time is a fixed time, and measurement is started when control for changing the output state of the external signal is performed. Specifically, an affirmative determination is made when the value of the external signal timer described later becomes "0".

  If the determination result is affirmative (step S201: YES), the main control CPU 40a determines whether the values of the ART signal setting counter and the ART signal processing counter are different (step S202). A value (control information) indicating an output state of the current ART signal is set (stored) in the ART signal processing counter stored in the main control RAM 40c. That is, in step S202, it is determined whether the output state of the ART signal specified by the value of the set ART signal setting counter is different from the current output state of the ART signal based on the result of the game progression main processing .

  If the determination result is affirmative (step S202: YES), the main control CPU 40a updates the value of the ART signal processing counter so as to match the value of the ART signal setting counter stored in the main control RAM 40c. (Step S203). Specifically, when a value (control information) indicating that the ART signal setting state is to be the first state is set in the ART signal setting counter, the main control CPU 40a uses the ART signal processing counter as the ART. A value (control information) indicating that the signal output state is to be the first state is set (stored) and updated. When a value (control information) indicating that the output state of the ART signal is to be in the second state is set in the ART signal setting counter, the main control CPU 40a sets the output state of the ART signal in the ART signal processing counter. The value (control information) indicating the second state is set (stored) and updated. Thereby, the main control CPU 40a performs control for changing the output state of the ART signal, and when the guarantee time (certain time) has elapsed (when the determination result in step S201 is affirmative), the main control RAM 40c The control for changing the output state of the ART signal can be executed based on the value (control information) of the ART signal setting counter stored in.

  Then, the main control CPU 40a stores a predetermined value (1344 in the present embodiment) in the external signal timer (step S204). The value of the external signal timer is stored in the main control RAM 40c, and is decremented by 1 in a process different from the interrupt process each time the interrupt process is executed (that is, every predetermined cycle). Therefore, control can be executed to change the value of the ART signal processing counter each time the interrupt processing is performed the number of times corresponding to the predetermined value. In other words, control is performed to change the value of the ART signal processing counter every fixed time (for example, 1.4891 ms × 1344 = 2001.3504 ms) obtained by multiplying the cycle of interrupt processing by a predetermined value stored in the external signal timer. It becomes executable. The time obtained by multiplying the interrupt cycle of the interrupt process by a predetermined value stored in the external signal timer is the guarantee time.

  Then, if the determination result of step S202 or step S203 is negative, or after the process of step S204, the main control CPU 40a controls the output state of the ART signal based on the value of the ART signal processing counter (step S205). That is, when the value of the ART signal processing counter is a value that sets the output state of the ART signal to the first state (high state), the main control CPU 40a sets the output state of the ART signal to the first state. Control. On the other hand, when the value of the ART signal processing counter is a value that sets the output state of the ART signal to the second state (low state), the main control CPU 40a sets the output state of the ART signal to the second state. Control. Then, the interrupt processing ends.

  Therefore, the main control CPU 40a functions as control means for controlling the output state of the external signal output from the connection terminal 40d. In addition, after the main control CPU 40a performs control for changing the output state of the ART signal, if the guarantee time (certain time) has not elapsed (if the determination result in step S201 is negative), the ART signal is output The execution of control to change the state is restricted.

Next, processing performed by the sub control CPU 41a of the sub board 41 will be described.
The sub control CPU 41a performs the following mode effect processing as processing relating to mode effect. When the sub-control CPU 41a receives a mode command, the sub-control CPU 41a controls the effect display device 15 to display an image according to the effect mode that can be identified from the mode command. For example, when the sub control CPU 41a inputs a mode command capable of specifying the normal mode MA, it reads the display effect data for the normal mode MA from the sub control ROM 41b, and controls the effect display device 15 using the data. By doing this, an image for the normal mode MA is displayed.

  In addition, the sub control CPU 41a performs the following navigation processing as processing related to navigation. When the sub-control CPU 41a inputs an instruction command, the sub-control CPU 41a controls the effect display device 15 to display a navigation according to an instruction number that can be identified from the command. Hereinafter, a specific example of the execution mode of the navigation related to the pressing order of the stop buttons 21a to 21c will be described.

  When the sub-control CPU 41a inputs an instruction command capable of specifying the instruction number, the sub-control CPU 41a controls the effect display device 15 so as to display an image capable of identifying the order of the stop buttons 21a to 21c to be stopped. In the following description, an image which makes it possible to identify the stop buttons 21a to 21c to be stopped is referred to as a "navi image". For example, the sub control CPU 41a controls the effect display device 15 so as to display a navigation image imitating the numeral "1" in correspondence with the stop buttons 21a to 21c which are initially operated to stop. The sub control CPU 41a controls the effect display device 15 to display a navi image imitating the numeral "2" in correspondence with the stop buttons 21a to 21c which are operated to stop second. The sub control CPU 41a controls the effect display device 15 so as to display a navigation image imitating the numeral "3" in correspondence with the stop buttons 21a to 21c which are subjected to the third stop operation.

  Further, when the sub-control CPU 41a inputs a variation game end command, the decoration lamp 13 is set to execute a winning occurrence effect to notify that a winning has occurred based on a symbol combination that can be identified from the command. Control. For example, the sub-control CPU 41a controls the decoration lamp 13 so as to emit yellow when it is determined that the bell combination has been won.

Next, the timing at which the output state of the ART signal changes will be described based on FIG.
FIGS. 8A and 8B illustrate timings at which the output state of the ART signal changes when transitioning from the preparation mode MB to the special mode MC. In FIGS. 8A and 8B, when transitioning from the preparation mode MB to the special mode MC, the ART signal setting counter and the ART signal processing counter both output the ART signal in the second state (low). It is assumed that a value (control information) indicating that it is to be the state) is set, and the output state of the ART signal is also the second state. Further, in FIGS. 8A and 8B, when the transition from the preparation mode MB to the special mode MC, a value indicating that the ART signal setting counter and the ART signal processing counter are brought into the second state (control information It is assumed that the guarantee time has passed since the setting of.

  As shown in FIG. 8A, after time T1 when transitioning from the preparation mode MB to the special mode MC, at time T2 when the first start operation is operated, the ART signal setting counter outputs an ART signal setting state first. A value indicating that the state (high state) is to be made is set (step S109).

  Also, according to the premise, in the interrupt processing executed first after the first start operation is operated, a value indicating that the ART signal processing counter is to be brought into the first state (high state) based on the ART signal setting counter is It is set (step S203). Thus, the main control CPU 40a controls the output state of the ART signal to be in the first state (high state) (step S205). Also, a predetermined value is newly set in the external signal timer, and measurement of the guarantee time is started (step S204).

  After that, if all the stop buttons 21a to 21c are operated to stop before the guarantee time elapses (before the external signal timer becomes 0), a value indicating that the ART signal setting counter is put in the second state Is set (time T3, step S122).

  However, even if a value indicating that the ART signal setting counter is to be brought into the second state is set at time T3, a value indicating that the ART signal processing counter is to be brought into the first state is set. The timer value is not 0. In other words, the guarantee time has not passed. Therefore, even if the interrupt processing is executed, a value indicating that the second state is to be set is not set in the ART signal processing counter based on the value of the ART signal setting counter (step S201: NO). Therefore, the output state of the ART signal is maintained in the first state.

  After the value indicating that the ART signal processing counter is to be brought into the first state is set, when the value of the external signal timer becomes 0 (when the guarantee time elapses), the value of the ART signal processing counter can be updated ( Step S201: YES). That is, control (step S203) for changing the output state of the ART signal can be performed.

  In the interrupt processing in which the value of the external signal timer becomes 0, the main control CPU 40a updates the value of the ART signal processing counter based on the ART signal setting counter (step S203). That is, the main control CPU 40a sets a value indicating that the ART signal processing counter is to be brought into the second state (time T4). As a result, the main control CPU 40a controls the output state of the ART signal to be in the second state (low state) (step S205). Also, a predetermined value is newly set in the external signal timer, and measurement of the guarantee time is started (step S204).

  Thus, the time from the start operation to the stop operation of all the stop buttons 21a to 21c becomes short, and even if the value set in the ART signal setting counter changes, until the guarantee time elapses (external The value of the ART signal processing counter is not changed until the signal timer reaches 0). That is, execution of control for changing the output state of the ART signal is limited. Therefore, when the output state of the ART signal changes, the output state after the change is maintained at least until the guarantee time elapses.

  In other words, even if the time from when the ART signal setting process of step S109 is performed to the time when the ART signal end process of step S122 is performed is shorter than the guarantee time, after the change, the guarantee time elapses. The output state of is maintained. For this reason, in the game progress main process, after the ART signal setting process of step S109 is executed, until the ART signal end process of step S122 is executed, the process of determining whether the guarantee time has elapsed is executed There is no need to For example, before determining whether the minimum game time in step S112 has elapsed, it is not necessary to execute the process of determining whether the guarantee time has elapsed.

  Next, after a value indicating that the ART signal setting counter is to be in the first state is set in FIG. 8B, a value indicating that the ART signal setting counter is to be in the second state is set. The case where time is longer than guarantee time is shown. In this case, after time T5 when transition from the preparation mode MB to the special mode MC, at time T6 when the first start operation is operated, the ART signal setting counter sets the output state of the ART signal to the first state (high state) A value indicating that is set (step S109).

  Also, according to the premise, in the interrupt processing executed first after the first start operation is operated, a value indicating that the ART signal processing counter is to be brought into the first state (high state) based on the ART signal setting counter is It is set (step S203). Thus, the main control CPU 40a controls the output state of the ART signal to be in the first state (high state) (step S205). Also, a predetermined value is newly set in the external signal timer, and measurement of the guarantee time is started (step S204).

  Then, after the external signal timer is set to 0 (at time T7), when all the stop buttons 21a to 21c are operated to stop, a value indicating that the ART signal setting counter is to be in the second state is set. (Time point T8, step S122). After that, in the interrupt processing executed first, a value indicating that the ART signal processing counter is to be brought into the second state is set based on the value of the ART signal setting counter (step S203), and the output state of the ART signal is the second The state is changed (step S205).

  Thus, when the time from the value indicating the first state to be set in the ART signal setting counter to the value indicating the second state is set is longer than the guarantee time, At a timing when a value indicating that the ART signal setting counter is to be brought into the second state is set (at the timing when the stop operation is performed), the output state of the ART signal becomes the second state.

The slot machine 10 of this embodiment has the following effects.
(1) After changing the output state of the ART signal (external signal), the execution of control to change the output state of the ART signal is limited until the guarantee time (certain time) elapses, and the output state after the change is Maintained. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the time for which the changed output state is maintained to be short. Thus, by appropriately changing the output state of the ART signal, the external device 50 connected to the connection terminal 40d can recognize the output state of the ART signal.

  (2) Even after the value of the ART signal setting counter (control information indicating the output state of the ART signal) changes by executing the game progress main processing, after executing the control to change the output state of the ART signal, If the guarantee time has not passed, control for changing the output state of the ART signal is not executed. The guarantee time (the time from when a predetermined value is set to the external signal timer to when it reaches 0) is a fixed time. For this reason, the output state of the ART signal does not change when a fixed time has not elapsed after the change of the output state of the ART signal. Therefore, the output state of the ART signal can be appropriately changed regardless of the processing speed (progress condition) of the game progress main processing, and the external device 50 connected to the connection terminal 40d is made to recognize the output state of the ART signal. be able to. In addition, since it is determined whether or not the guarantee time has elapsed in an interrupt process different from the game signal main process, it is necessary to hold the game progress main process in order to determine whether the guarantee time has elapsed. It can be eliminated. For example, it is not necessary to include the guarantee time in the shortest game time (wait time). Therefore, the degree of freedom in program design can be improved.

  (3) In the interruption process different from the game progress main process, the output state of the ART signal can be maintained until the guarantee time elapses. Therefore, regardless of the time when the output state of the ART signal has changed, ART signal setting is performed after the start operation is performed and after the stop operation of all the stop buttons 21a to 21c is performed in the game progress main processing. Control for changing the value of the counter can be performed, and design freedom can be improved.

  (4) The main control CPU 40a sets a value indicating that the ART signal output state is to be the first state in the ART signal setting counter when in the special mode MC (ART state) in the game progression main processing. be able to. Therefore, based on the output state of the ART signal, it can be determined whether or not it is the special mode MC (ART state).

  (5) In the interrupt process different from the game progress main process, the output state of the ART signal can be maintained until the guarantee time elapses. Therefore, when the stop operation is performed, a value indicating that the output state of the ART signal is to be the second state can be set in the ART signal setting counter, and the degree of freedom in design can be improved.

  (6) If interrupt processing is not executed even if the value of the ART signal setting counter (control information indicating the output state of the ART signal) changes by executing the game progression main processing for advancing the fluctuation game The output state of the ART signal does not change. Then, the interrupt processing is executed every predetermined interrupt cycle, and therefore, after the output state of the ART signal changes, the state after the change is maintained until the predetermined interrupt cycle elapses. Therefore, regardless of the processing speed (progress condition) of the game progress main processing, the output state of the ART signal can be appropriately changed, and the external device 50 connected to the connection terminal 40d recognizes the output state of the ART signal. It can be done.

The embodiment described above may be modified, for example, to another embodiment as follows.
In the above embodiment, the interrupt cycle of the interrupt process may be arbitrarily changed. For example, the interrupt cycle may be 2001.3504 ms. As described above, when the interrupt cycle is matched with the guarantee time, it is not necessary to execute the process of determining whether the guarantee time has elapsed in the interrupt process. In this case, since interrupt processing is executed every guarantee time, after executing control to change the output state of ART signal, the state after change is performed at least until the interrupt cycle (guarantee time) has elapsed. Is maintained. Therefore, regardless of the processing speed of the game progress main process, the output state of the ART signal can be appropriately changed, and the external device 50 connected to the connection terminal 40d can be made to recognize the output state of the ART signal. . Also, in order to execute control to change the output state of the ART signal in the interrupt process different from the game progress main process, it is determined whether or not a predetermined interrupt cycle has passed after the change of the output state of the ART signal. It is possible to eliminate the need to stagnate the game progress processing and to improve the degree of freedom in design. Also, the timer for measuring the guarantee time is not necessary.

  In the above embodiment, it is determined whether or not the guarantee time (fixed time) has elapsed in the interrupt processing, but it may be determined whether the guarantee time (fixed time) has elapsed in the game main progress processing. For example, after the control for changing the value of the ART signal setting counter is executed, it is determined before execution of the ART signal end processing whether or not the guarantee time (fixed time) has passed, and the determination result is affirmative. , ART signal end processing may be executed.

  In the above embodiment, the execution timing of the ART signal setting process may be arbitrarily changed as long as it is before the execution timing of the ART signal end process. For example, it may be executed before execution of the winning number lottery process (step S108). Similarly, the execution timing of the ART signal end processing may be arbitrarily changed as long as it is later than the execution timing of the ART signal setting processing. For example, you may perform before execution of display symbol determination processing (step S117).

In the above embodiment, during the special mode MC, each time the start operation is performed, a value may be set to indicate that the ART signal setting counter should be in the first state.
In the interrupt processing of the above embodiment, after the control for changing the output state of the ART signal is executed, the execution of the control for changing the output state of the ART signal is limited until the guarantee time (fixed time) elapses. However, the present invention may be applied to other external signals than the ART signal. For example, a setting counter for reflecting the processing result of the game progress main process is provided for each type of external signal, and a value indicating the output state of the external signal to the setting counter based on the process result of the game progress main process (control information Set) (store). Then, a processing counter indicating the current output state of the external signal is provided for each type of external signal, and in the interrupt processing, when the guarantee time (fixed time) has elapsed after changing the value of the processing counter last time, Based on the value of the setting counter, the value of the processing counter is set (stored). Then, in the interrupt processing, the main control CPU 40a may control the output state of the external signal based on the value of the processing counter. On the other hand, when the guarantee time (fixed time) has not elapsed since the value of the processing counter was changed last time, the execution of control to change the value of the processing counter may be limited.

  In the above embodiment, only one AT state is used, but there may be a plurality of AT states. For example, when the winning numbers 011 to 016 (the first control bell to the sixth control bell) are determined, the instruction information (and the navigation) is displayed, but the winning number 004 (the first replay or the second replay) is determined. However, there may be an AT state which is not displayed. As described above, the role of instructing may be different depending on the type of AT state.

  Further, when there are a plurality of types of AT states, the indication mode may be changed for each type of AT state. For example, there may be an AT state instructing only at the time of the first stop operation, and an AT state instructing all the pushing order. In addition, there may be an AT state in which the pushing order and the pushing position are indicated, and an AT state in which only the pushing order or the pushing position is indicated. Also, the display mode or display timing of the instruction information or the navigation may be made different. Also, if there are multiple types of AT status, the transition condition may differ depending on the type of AT status, such as transitioning to the AT status when an AT lottery is won with a predetermined winning combination. Good.

When there are a plurality of AT states as described above, an AT state signal indicating the staying AT state may be output as the external signal for each AT state.
In the above embodiment, the non-AT state may have a lower occurrence probability of navigation than the AT state.

  In the above embodiment, when the main control CPU 40a wins a predetermined symbol combination such as, for example, a bell combination, the main control CPU 40a performs a freeze lottery whether to generate a freeze effect (reel lock effect) or not and The reel unit 16 may be controlled to perform a freeze effect during the fluctuation game on condition that the game is won. The freeze effect is an effect of performing an operation (stop, forward rotation, or reverse rotation) on the effect separately from the operation on the game for causing the reels 16a to 16c to derive the game result. The freeze effect is performed during a period in which the stop operation can be received after the start operation is received, and after the game result is derived as a result of the third stop operation from the first stop operation, the medal is paid out. There are cases where it takes place during the period until completion.

  Then, when the freeze effect is performed, a freeze signal indicating that the freeze effect is being performed may be output as the external signal. In this case, for example, during the freeze effect, a value indicating that the freeze effect is being performed may be set to the setting counter for the freeze signal (external signal). Then, after the freeze effect is finished, a value indicating that the freeze effect is not being performed may be settable in the setting counter for the freeze signal (external signal).

  In the above embodiment, the closing request signal may be adopted as an external signal output from the main substrate 40 to the external device 50. The insertion request signal is a signal that can specify whether or not the medal is required to be inserted (a state in which the medal can be inserted), for example, after the medal bet acceptance is started (step S102), the insertion request is made. A value indicating that the medal can be inserted can be set in the setting counter of the signal. Then, for example, after the start operation is accepted, a value indicating that the medal can not be inserted can be set in the setting counter of the insertion request signal.

  In the above embodiment, a start enable signal may be adopted as an external signal output from the main substrate 40 to the external device 50. The start enable signal is a signal that can specify whether or not the start operation of the variation game is requested (the start operation can be received). For example, if the determination result in step S106 is affirmative, the start enable is possible. A value indicating that the start operation can be received can be set in the signal setting counter. Then, for example, after the start operation is accepted, a value indicating that the start operation can not be accepted can be set in the setting counter of the start enable signal.

  In the above embodiment, a replay game in-progress signal may be adopted as an external signal output from the main substrate 40 to the external device 50. The replay game in-progress signal is a signal indicating that the replay is in progress. For example, after it is determined that the replay player has won in the display symbol determination process, a value indicating that the replay counter in the replay game is in progress is being played back. Can be set. Then, for example, before the next variation game is started, a value indicating that the game is not being played back can be set in the setting counter of the signal during the replay game.

  In the embodiment, the first to third reel stoppable signals may be adopted as the external signal output from the main substrate 40 to the external device 50. The first to third reel stoppable signals are signals that can specify whether or not the stop operation of the reels 16a to 16c can be received. For example, after the rotation of the reels is started, the first to third reel stoppable signals are A value indicating that the stop operation can be accepted can be set in the setting counter of. Then, for example, after the stop operation is accepted, a value indicating that the stop operation can not be accepted can be set in the setting counters of the first to third reel stoppable signals.

  In the above embodiment, the first to third reel index signals may be adopted as the external signal output from the main substrate 40 to the external device 50. The first to third reel index signals are detection signals of the reel sensors SE1 to SE3. For example, after the reel stop processing (step S115) is executed, the detection results are indicated to the setting counter of the first to third reel index signals. The value can be set. Then, for example, after execution of the display symbol determination process (step S117), an initial value can be set in the setting counter of the first to third reel index signals.

  In the above embodiment, a payout request signal may be adopted as an external signal output from the main substrate 40 to the external device 50. The payout request signal is a signal indicating whether or not the hopper is driven, and for example, when driving the hopper, a value indicating that the hopper is being driven can be set to a setting counter of the payout request signal. Then, for example, after the driving of the hopper is finished, a value indicating that the driving is not in progress can be set to the setting counter of the payout request signal.

  In the above embodiment, a winning number signal may be adopted as an external signal output from the main substrate 40 to the external device 50. The winning number signal is a signal that can identify the determined winning number. For example, after execution of the winning number lottery process (step S108), a value corresponding to the winning number can be set in the setting counter of the winning number signal. . Then, for example, after execution of the display symbol determination process (step S117), an initial value can be set in the setting counter of the winning number signal.

  In the above embodiment, the main substrate 40 outputs the ART signal, but the sub substrate 41 and the main substrate 40 may output ART signals, respectively, and the sub substrate 41 outputs the ART signal. You may do so. In this case, the sub substrate 41 is provided with a connection terminal connected to the external device 50, and the main substrate 40 outputs the ART signal via the connection terminal based on the signal output to the sub substrate 41. Just do it. Further, the sub-substrate 41 may output an external signal instructing information on the result based on the control of the sub-substrate 41. The information on the result based on the control of the sub substrate 41 includes, for example, information on navigation.

  In the above embodiment, the slot machine 10 may have three or more types of RT states that can be provided by the operation of the RT function. Also, the slot machine 10 may not have the RT function. That is, one type may be provided as the gaming state in which the winning probability of the replay role is constant.

  In the above embodiment, the transition condition of the effect mode can be changed according to the game property to be created. For example, the main control CPU 40a may shift to the preparation mode MB when the AT transition lottery is won in the process of step S121 in the game progress main process, triggered by the digestion of a predetermined number of games. In addition, the main control CPU 40a may shift to the special mode MC, assuming that winning of a combination different from the second replay combination is achieved as the transition condition.

  In the above embodiment, the transition condition of the gaming state (RT state) can be changed in accordance with the gaming characteristics to be created. For example, the main control CPU 40a may shift to the RT2 state by regarding the winning of a winning combination different from that of the second replay combination as satisfaction of the transition condition.

  In the above embodiment, the mode shift process is performed after the display symbol determination process (step S117) in the game progress main process is executed, but the execution timing can be changed according to the game property. For example, in the case of shifting to the AT state according to the type of winning number, it may be executed after the winning number lottery process (step S108).

  In the above embodiment, the main control CPU 40a may determine the win number using a different win number lottery table for each type of AT state (non-AT state and AT state). That is, the main control CPU 40a may change the win number lottery table along with the transition to the AT state.

In the embodiment, the navigation may be accompanied by a sound effect by the speaker 14 or a light emission effect by the decoration lamp 13.
In the above embodiment, the player may be able to be provided with an advantageous bonus state. The bonus state refers to, for example, a state in which the determination probability of some of the winning numbers (for example, the winning numbers 011 to 016) is different from that in the non-bonus state. Then, when a bonus state is given, an external signal may be output as a bonus signal indicating that the bonus state has been given. In this case, for example, after transitioning to the bonus state, a value indicating that the player is in the bonus state may be set in the setting counter for the bonus signal (external signal). Then, after the bonus state is ended, a value indicating that the bonus state is not set may be set in the setting counter for the bonus signal (external signal).

  In the above embodiment, the slot machine 10 may be configured to be capable of giving the player a penalty causing a disadvantage. For example, the main control CPU 40a may perform control to apply a penalty when the stop buttons 21a to 21c are operated in a pressing order other than the first pressing order during the non-AT state. The penalty can be realized, for example, by not executing the AT transition lottery in the game progress main processing. In addition, the penalty may be given for a single variation game or may be given for a plurality of variation games.

  In the embodiment, the function of the main substrate 40 as the first control unit may be realized by being divided into a plurality of substrates. Further, the main control CPU 40a may be configured of a plurality of CPUs mounted on a single substrate.

  In the embodiment, the function of the sub substrate 41 as the second control unit may be realized by being divided into a plurality of substrates. For example, a display substrate for specializedly controlling the effect display device 15, an audio substrate for specializedly controlling the speaker 14, and a lamp substrate for specializedly controlling the decoration lamp 13 may be provided. You may further provide a general control board. Further, the sub control CPU 41a may be configured of a plurality of CPUs mounted on a single substrate.

In the above embodiment, the slot machine 10 may be a gaming machine using gaming media different from the medals. For example, gaming balls may be used as gaming media.
In the above embodiment, the present invention may be applied not only when changing the output state of the external signal to the external device 50 but also when changing the output state of the signal (command) to the sub-substrate 41. That is, even when a certain time (guarantee time) has elapsed from when the output state of the signal from the main substrate 40 to the sub substrate 41 changes, control to change the output state of the signal becomes executable. Good.

  In the above embodiment, a standby process may be provided instead of the interrupt process, and steps S202 to S205 may be executed in the standby process. This standby process is a process executed every predetermined period (for example, 2 ms) after the elapse of the guarantee time is measured by a dedicated timer. The standby process is executed after the elapse of the guarantee time is measured by a dedicated timer and the output state of the external signal changes (when the value of the setting counter and the value of the processing counter are different) It is also good. In this case, there is no need to execute the process of step S202.

  In the above embodiment, after transitioning from the preparation mode MB to the special mode MC, the ART signal output state is set to the first state after the first start operation is performed, but the ART signal output state The timing at which the first state is set may be changed. For example, when the number of remaining special games is set from 0 to 1 or more, the output state of the ART signal may be set to the first state.

In the embodiment described above, as an external signal output from the main substrate 40 to the external device 50, an external signal indicating that effect may be adopted when transitioning from the RT1 state to the RT2 state.
Next, technical ideas that can be grasped from the above embodiment and another example will be additionally described below.

  (A) Based on the start operation, the variation of the symbol is started, and in the gaming machine where the symbol is stopped based on the stop operation, control means for controlling the state of the external signal output from the connection terminal and the game progress Processing means for executing the game progressing process, wherein the process means performs the state of the external signal after the start operation is performed and after the stop operation is performed in the game progressing process. Control information to be specified is configured to be storable in a storage unit, and the control unit is configured to control the external signal based on the control information stored in the storage unit in an interrupt process executed every predetermined cycle. A gaming machine configured to be able to execute control for changing a state.

  (B) The processing means stores, in the storage means, control information for setting the state of the external signal to the first state based on the control state of the gaming machine after the start operation is performed in the game progress processing. It is configured to be possible.

  (C) The processing means is configured to be able to store control information for setting the state of the external signal to the second state after the stop operation is performed in the game progress processing, in the storage means.

(D) After the control state of the gaming machine is changed, and after the first start operation is performed, control information for setting the state of the external signal to the first state is stored in the storage means.
(E) Control means for changing the first control information for controlling the output state of the external signal output from the connection terminal, and processing means for executing the game progression process for advancing the game, the process The means is configured to be capable of storing the second control information for specifying the first control information by executing the game progress processing and storing the change in the storage means, and the control means is configured to perform every predetermined time. A gaming machine configured to be capable of changing the first control information based on the second control information stored in the storage means in an interrupt process to be executed.

  (F) A connection terminal to which a device can be connected, and control means for performing predetermined control, the control means being a first output for setting an output state of a signal to be output from the connection terminal to a first state The control and the second output control for setting the output state of the signal to the second state can be performed at least, and the first predetermined process is performed, and the constant is performed during the execution of the first process. The second process is executed for each of the periods defined in the above, and in the first process, the control information indicating the output state of the signal according to the satisfied condition is set when the predetermined condition is satisfied. In the second processing, it is possible to execute the first output control or the second output control so as to output the signal indicated by the control information.

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 Slot machine (game machine) 12a Display window 15 Effect display device 16 Reel unit 16a to 16c Reel 20 Start lever 21a to 21c Stop button 40 Main board 40a Main control CPU (control means, processing means) 40c: main control RAM (storage means) 41: sub board 41a: sub control CPU.

Claims (2)

In the gaming machine, the variation of the symbol is started based on the start operation and the symbol is stopped based on the stop operation,
Control means for controlling an output state of an external signal output from the connection terminal;
And processing means for executing a game progression process for advancing the game,
The processing means
In the game progress processing, after the start operation is performed, control information for setting the output state of the external signal to the first state is configured to be able to be stored in the storage means based on the control state of the gaming machine.
In the game progress processing, after the stop operation is performed, control information for setting the output state of the external signal to the second state is configured to be able to be stored in the storage means based on the control state of the gaming machine.
In the interrupt processing executed each time a predetermined time has elapsed, the control means performs control to change the output state of the external signal, and then the storage is performed when a predetermined specific time has elapsed. It is configured to be able to execute control for changing the output state of the external signal based on the control information stored in the means,
After the control means performs control to change the output state of the external signal to the first state, execution of control to change the output state of the external signal to the second state for the specific time is performed. Limited
After the control means performs control to change the output state of the external signal to the second state, execution of control to change the output state of the external signal to the first state for the specific time is performed. Limited
The control of the output state of the external signal for changing to the first state, after the start operation is performed until the variation of the symbols from the end of the lottery to make decisions about the progress of the game is started A game machine to be played between   The game machine according to claim 1, wherein the control for changing the output state of the external signal is executable when the interrupt process is performed a predetermined number of times.

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